Decatur Fire Department news

Excerpts from herald-review.com:

The Decatur Fire Department’s Engine 6, the truck that firefighter Micah “Bubba” Wakeman once rode into action countless times, carried him home on Tuesday for his final journey. A 16-year veteran of the department, Bubba lived in Mount Pulaski and had a deep love for farming. He passed away on June 13 after a tragic tractor rollover accident. At just 43 years old, he left behind a wife and four children.

Firefighters from across Central Illinois gathered to honor their fallen brother. As the service began, colleagues and friends paid their respects with a final salute. An honor guard carried Bubba from the church, while others raised their hands in a slow, respectful gesture. The procession moved slowly, led by squad cars from both the Decatur Police Department and the Macon County Sheriff’s Office, symbolizing unity and respect.

The funeral route stretched three miles to Warrensburg, where Bubba was laid to rest. The procession was filled with fire trucks, police cars, and emergency vehicles, creating a powerful display of community support. Along the way, the group passed under a ceremonial arch formed by two aerial ladder trucks holding an American flag that fluttered proudly in the breeze. The bright, clear weather reflected the tone of the service—more of a celebration of life than a somber farewell.

Bubba's friend Tracy Dyer said, “This isn’t a funeral—it’s a celebration. It’s about how one small man made a big impact, not just here, but around the world, from Uganda to Haiti, Guatemala, and Ukraine.”

A devoted Christian, Bubba volunteered on international missions and also served as a foster parent for children in need. Colleagues described him as caring, hardworking, and always ready to help. His life was defined by service and compassion, and he spent almost every moment of his day giving back to others.

Though the atmosphere was uplifting with laughter and shared memories, the loss of such a beloved man was deeply felt. Some mourners were overcome with emotion, especially when a message from Bubba’s 20-year-old daughter, Ashton, was read aloud. She struggled to find the right words to express her feelings, saying, “For once, I don’t know what to say. But what I can say is ‘thank you.’ Thank you, God, for letting us have some of my dad in our lives, because not many people get to know someone like Micah Wakeman.”

As the service ended, a solemn silence fell over the church. A single firefighter then rang a bell nine times—three sets of three rings—a traditional firefighter tribute to a fallen comrade. The sound echoed through the sanctuary, marking the end of a heartfelt farewell.

In a touching show of solidarity, firefighters from Springfield and Champaign took over Decatur’s fire stations so that local firefighters could attend the service. More than 100 active and retired members of the Decatur FD were present, showing the deep bond they shared with Bubba.

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