By Peter Francis
The Eagle-Tribune
METHUEN, Mass. — A six-year veteran of the city’s fire department died suddenly at his home Tuesday.
Mayor Stephen Zanni and Methuen Fire Chief Tim Sheehy announced the passing of firefighter Patrick McKallagat in a statement issued Wednesday afternoon.
Officials did not list a cause of death for the 37-year old McKallagat, who leaves behind a daughter, Aliya, parents Stephen and Patricia, and brothers Mark and Shaun.
“All of Firefighter McKallagat’s brothers and sisters at the Methuen Fire Department mourn his passing. Pat was a well-respected member of our department,” Chief Sheehy said. “The work of brave firefighters like him keeps our community safe every day. We are extremely grateful for his service, and our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.”
Zanni and Sheehy added that McKallagat “served the community with distinction and displayed exemplary service to the people of Methuen during his career.”
Deputy Fire Chief Scott Sullivan said Wednesday that he had known McKallagat for several years. McKallagat had recently transferred from the Central Station to the North End Station and was working on the ladder truck for Engine 6.
“He was a good family man who was well liked around the department,” said Sullivan. “A real ‘gentle soul’ kind of guy.”
Calling hours will be held at Cataudella Funeral Home on Monday, Nov. 27, from 4-8 p.m. A funeral Mass will be said on Tuesday, Nov. 28 at 11 a.m. at St. Monica’s Church, 212 Lawrence St., in Methuen.
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