Copperas Cove fireffighter to be celebrated, remembered

By LYNETTE SOWELL 
Cove Leader-Press 

The Copperas Cove Fire Department announced on Saturday the passing of one of its own, John Michael “Turtle” McGuire, an 18-year veteran of the department. 
According to the press release, McGuire, 52, passed away on Thursday, Feb. 10, due to complications from a “work-related illness.”  
The department said that McGuire earned a number of certifications and also received awards, to include the Texas  Commission on Fire Protection Fire Certification Bar, Safe Driver Award, Firefighter of the year Award, and Emergency Medical Technician‐Basic of the Year Award.
“The Fire Department asks that you keep Michael, his family and the department in your thoughts and prayers as we celebrate the life of our beloved brother,” said Copperas Cove Deputy Fire Chief Gary Young. 
One of McGuire’s colleagues, Firefighter/Paramedic Carol Ballesteros, also shared her thoughts about McGuire and his leadership after she came on board at the CCFD.
“When I started with the Copperas Cove Fire Department a little over 17 years ago, Michael ‘Turtle’ McGuire was one of the first people I met. Though I was new to the department, Turtle treated me with respect and more importantly, as an equal,” Ballesteros said. “Throughout the years, I came to know Turtle as a firefighter’s firefighter, a good EMT, an exceptional mechanic, a mentor to others; to me as well, and a loving devoted father, a friend, and a partner. 
“Justin Cronin quipped, ‘As long as we remember a person, they’re not really gone. Their thoughts, their feelings, their memories, they become a part of us.’ Though you made roll call way too soon, we will always love and remember you, brother.”
Due to his passing being considered a line of duty death, McGuire will receive a traditional firefighter’s funeral with full honors. 
A father of three sons, McGuire was also an avid member of the Five Hills Jeep Club. 
A visitation will be held for him on Thursday, Feb. 17, from 5-7 p.m. at Viss Family Funeral Home, located at 1614 S. F.M. 116. Funeral Services will be Friday, February 18, at 10 a.m. at First Baptist Church, located at 300 West Avenue B, Copperas Cove. 
Graveside services will  be at Kempner Cemetery.