Tributes to Essex firefighter Aston Everett
Colleagues across Essex County Fire and Rescue Service have been paying tribute to Firefighter Aston Everett who sadly died last week.
During the afternoon of Saturday 2 January, Aston, aged 54, suffered a brain aneurysm and collapsed while on duty for the Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) station in Lexden.
Despite the efforts of the firefighters on duty, the paramedics who responded, the hospital staff and specialists at two hospitals, Aston passed away on Tuesday 5 January.
Aston had been a firefighter at Essex County Fire and Rescue Service for 16 years, serving at Chelmsford Fire Station, Clacton Fire Station, Dovercourt Fire Station and most recently, USAR. Aston was known for his high standards, principles and dedication.
Jo Turton, Chief Fire Officer and Chief Executive, said:
“It is with deep sadness that we learned of the loss of Firefighter Aston Everett.
“He was a true friend and valued colleague to so many, as well as a dedicated and brilliant firefighter.
“The dedication he showed to his role and his community shone through and I hope anyone who knew him can take comfort in the difference he made to so many during his life.
“Our thoughts remain with Aston’s family, friends and colleagues at this incredibly difficult time and we will continue to support them in any way that we can.”
Aston leaves behind his wife and three children, and anyone who knew Aston knew the love and support he showed to his family, and the pride he took in taking care of them.
In recognition of this his friend and colleague, Watch Manager Ben Turner, has set up a Just Giving page.
Watch Manager Turner said:
“Having completed 16 years of service, Aston was soon to become eligible to retire and collect his pension.
“Even in the last few months, knowing that retirement was approaching Aston was still setting himself professional challenges, never wanting to take his foot off the accelerator.
“We are looking to collect enough money to support his family, to ensure that his children don't go without, to remove the financial burden and enable the family to grieve their loss. The target we have set (£32000) is the equivalent to a Firefighters annual salary.”
To donate to the Just Giving page visit: www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/supportingastoneverettsfamily
Pictured: Aston second from right with his colleagues from Clacton Fire Station.