APPLETON, WI (WTAQ) – The City of Appleton came together Monday to honor the life of Appleton Fire Department Driver Engineer Mitchell Lundgaard.
In front of a filled Appleton Alliance Church, Mayor Tim Hannah said support came in all week but really showed strong during the procession prior to the visitation on Monday.
“Going down the procession seeing the number of people holding flags, standing at attention, saluting, visibly upset with tears in their eyes, it just tells a lot about our community.”
He said that support came in the form of moral support, prayers and even physical help to allow members of the Appleton Fire Department time to honor Lundgaard’s life and service.
Appleton Police Officer Meghan Cash read a statement from the Lundgaard family.
“When Mitch became a firefighter, he swore to serve his community, helping people, and he died selflessly doing that.”
In that statement, the family said the support from the community and beyond shows that Mitch will not be forgotten, and it gives them comfort during this tough time.
“We have seen in the past few days how many lives have been impacted by Mitch serving his community.”
Mayor Tim Hannah stressed how much support they have received from neighboring communities.
Emergency vehicles from the East Coast to as far West as Colorado Springs were in Appleton to honor the life of Lundgaard.
