Robert Sharkevich Sr., a member of the Wethersfield Volunteer Fire Department and former member of the Hartford Fire Department, was remembered during a funeral mass in Hartford Monday.
Sharkevich, 66, died last week while fighting a brush fire at Lamentation Mountain in Berlin. He was riding in a utility task vehicle on a trail when it rolled over near the Meriden town line.
Sharkevich’s funeral began late Monday morning at the Cathedral of St. Joseph in Hartford.
Prior to the funeral, dozens of police cars and fire trucks made their way in a procession to the church. Onlookers, including students, lined the street saluting and holding American flags.
Sharkevich spent 25 years with the Hartford Fire Department and an additional 22 years as a firefighter in Wethersfield. He also worked as a carpenter and a maintainer for the Wethersfield Public School District.
“He was known for his caring nature, unwavering love for his family, and his unforgettable sense of humor. Robert will forever be remembered as a true hero who always put others before himself,” his obituary reads.
Some firefighters were given time off following the death last week so they could have time to ground themselves, Berlin Fire Chief John Massirio said.
"It's hard to keep a lot of the guys away after something like this," Massirio said. "They want to finish the job. That's what they're there for. And they want to do it to honor those we've lost. But it's important to recognize when there is a separation needed."
Gov. Ned Lamont directed flags in Connecticut to half staff following Sharkevich’s death, extending condolences to his family, friends and colleagues and thanking him for his service.
“His selfless dedication to public service and the safety of his community and the surrounding towns is nothing less than heroic,” Lamont said in a statement.
Flags are slated to return to full-staff Monday evening.
