A Forest Park firefighter described as a beloved 12-year veteran of the department died on Thursday due to COVID-19 complications, the city said.
The City of Forest Park announced the passing of John Gaddy, who was diagnosed with COVID in August.
"The City of Forest Park and the Forest Park Fire Department are in mourning, following this tragic loss," City Manager Dr. Marc-Antonie Cooper said in a statement. "We ask that the community keep his family, friends, and co-workers in your thoughts and prayers."
Gaddy's colleagues at the fire department have started a GoFundMe for Gaddy, which you can find here, to raise money for his family.
The GoFundMe post said Gaddy was a former police officer who "had a passion to serve others."
"Regardless of the time of day or night, or the type of call that came in, he was the most respectful, kind, and gentle hearted member of our crew," the post said. "As amazing as he was to our brothers and sisters, he was even more amazing at home."
The post said Gaddy is survived by his wife and four children, as well as his grandchildren.
