Cleveland firefighter dies due to occupational cancer

By Sarah Roebuck
FireRescue1

CLEVELAND — A firefighter with the Cleveland Fire Department has died due to occupational cancer, Cleveland Fire Fighters IAFF Local 93 stated in a Facebook post.

Firefighter Shawn Calvey, 37, was an 8-year veteran of the department working primarily out of Station 23. He was diagnosed with esophageal cancer in May 2023, WOIO reports.

Cleveland Fire Fighters IAFF Local 93 said in a statement: “Due to his endless work ethic, keen instincts, incredible strength, and great sense of humor, Shawn garnered universal respect and admiration from his peers. He served the people of Cleveland selflessly, displaying tenacity and courage in many life-saving incidents. Shawn was truly a larger-than-life figure and exemplified what it means to be a great Cleveland Firefighter.”

Calvey’s passing will be recognized as a line-of-duty death by the IAFF. His family will be presented with the IAFF Medal of Honor.

The state of Ohio will also recognize Calvey’s death as an active line-of-duty death, the union said.

Calvey leaves behind his wife and two young children, Landon (6) and Madeline (3).

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