Family and friends remember Todd Hage’s determination, energy
By Alex Bloom
The Charlotte Observer
INDIAN TRAIL, N.C. — More than 1,200 people filled First Baptist Church in Indian Trail on Wednesday to remember Todd Hage, the Union County firefighter who died when his truck overturned while responding to a false alarm at a school Saturday.
Representatives from more than 17 fire departments, traveling in 52 vehicles, joined in a procession that rolled through the town and ended at Forest Lawn East Cemetery in Weddington. There, Hage’s fire helmet was presented to his wife, Michelle. His two daughters were given his badge and nametag.
Hage, 42, who worked at Bank of America, joined the Wesley Chapel Volunteer Fire Department last year after 12 years of naval service.
During the funeral, his brother-in-law, Tom Disy, said he asked Hage why he wanted to fight fires.
“He looked me straight in the eye and said ‘If not me, then who?’ ” Disy said.
“If not Todd, then who? All of you men and women sitting there in uniform today — it’s you, and you make him proud. He would be awestruck today.”
Toby Hage told mourners his brother was full of love. “And I’ve got the bruises to prove it.”
Fellow naval officer Chris Rhoden said Todd used to dress up in elaborate Halloween costumes and take kids in the neighborhood trick-or-treating. “Who could have endured — and I use the word ‘endured’ intentionally — his energy and determination and not been inspired to try something noble?” Rhoden asked.
Copyright 2007 The Charlotte Observer
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