'Touched a lot of hearts:' Family, friends and strangers say goodbye to Lake Mills fire captain
Christopher Truman
LAKE MILLS -- Hundreds said goodbye to a fallen Lake Mills firefighter killed on New Year's Eve. A visitation was held on Saturday, Jan. 5 for 46-year-old Christopher Truman.
People came from across the state to pay their respects to the volunteer firefighter.
"We're all hurting right now," said Lake Mills Police Chief Mick Selck.
Procession for Christopher Truman
The community lined the streets of Lake Mills as a procession carries the body of Capt. Truman from a funeral home to a public visitation.
"The outpouring of support and help has been unbelievable," said Chief Todd Yandre, Lake Mills Fire Department.
Procession for Christopher Truman
Procession for Christopher Truman
Truman was killed on Monday, Dec. 31. The volunteer firefighter was off-duty when he stopped to help a stranded driver near Monona. Another vehicle struck and killed him. Investigators say that driver was drunk.
"I have hole in my heart right now, not only for myself, but for his loved ones and for this community," Selck said.
Lake Mills Police Chief Mick Selck knew Truman well. The two were supposed to meet up the night he was killed.
Procession for Christopher Truman
"I'm just proud to have been his friend and I'm glad we could honor him like this," said Selck.
Strangers, friends and family all came together to remember Truman's commitment to service.
Procession for Christopher Truman
Rollien Brown
"A lot of people here, that means Chris touched a lot of hearts and if you knew him, that was his nature. He was the best person you could have for a friend or a brother. You couldn't ask for a better person," said Rollien Brown, Truman's older brother.
An outpouring of love from a community grateful for a man who sacrificed everything to help.
"I want people to think of him and use that as inspiration to do good things," Selck said.
Procession for Christopher Truman
A heartbreaking day for so many who were saying goodbye.
On Sunday, Jan. 6 a second visitation will be held from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the Lake Mills High School with a memorial service to immediately follow from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m.