APPLETON, WI (WTAQ) – The procession for Appleton Fire Department Driver Engineer Mitch Lundgaard filled the sidewalks with people finding their own ways to show support for his service.
From people standing with signs, to standing with hands on hearts, the Appleton Community stood along Capitol Drive watching as dozens of emergency vehicles escorted the body of Lundgaard.
“Me and my family, we just came out to pay our respect for their protection and service to our community.”
Ken George of Grand Chute stood at attention as the emergency vehicles, including the firetruck that carried Lundgaard’s body drove by.
Terry Kuehl served on the Grand Chute Fire Department and brought his helmet along to display at the procession. He says the moment hit close to home.
“We are all out there to help people and save lives and save property and this is what happens. It is not nice to see.”
Across the street, students at Houdini Elementary School showed up with signs that they made, thanking Lundgaard and the Fire Department, calling them their heroes.
“It is so wonderful to see the kids showing their thankfulness and supporting them”, said Michelle Sites, a teacher at Houdini Elementary School.
Dozens of emergency vehicles helped escort Lundgaard’s body from the funeral home to the Appleton Alliance Church.
