Memorial Procession Honors Fire Captain Who Unexpectedly Died

SANTA CRUZ COUNTY, CA — Santa Cruz County fire officials paid tribute Saturday to the late Branciforte Fire Protection District Captain Peder McElroy, who died unexpectedly while off-duty.

McElroy, 48, served the community for 22 years as a firefighter, according to the Branciforte Fire Protection District. He died of a heart attack May 30, in the presence of family, according to a GoFundMe funraising campaign to benefit his family. The campaign had raised more than $40,000 as of Tuesday morning.

He leaves behind a wife and four kids.

Firefighters held a memorial service and procession for McElroy, and raised an American flag from a ladder truck in his honor. The procession began Saturday morning in Santa Cruz and wound up to Skypark in Scotts Valley, where a service was held.

McElroy was remembered by donors to the GoFundMe campaign as a great mentor who made an impact on his community through his firefighting talents and kind heart.

"You have paved many paths for future firefighters," wrote the Gilroy Firefighters Association. "Some you trained are working with us here today."

The Branciforte Fire Protection District remembered McElroy, a U.S. Navy veteran, as a skilled carpenter, leader, firefighter and medic.

"He was a good example of what firefighters aim to achieve – dedicated, kind, fun, generous and committed to the fire service," the district wrote. "This positive influence will forever be felt throughout the Branciforte Fire Protection District and beyond."

Watch the service here: