We regret to pass on Veteran Firefighter & Chief, John McMahon's Death & Obituary information. He was well known at the National Fallen Firefighter Memorial Weekend, as well as in his home state of Florida Firefighter Memorial, and around the nation-especially when it came to his dedication to Firefighters, behavioral health, and his beloved Pipes & Drums. He was a friend to us and our mission at FFCC.
In his lifetime he served as a member of the Hicksville, Long Island NY, FD (following in the footsteps of his Father), the Suffolk Co Dept. of Fire Rescue & Emergency Services, Long Island, NY, the Lehigh Acres (FL) FD, the South Trail (FL) FD, the Bayshore (FL) Fire District and North Collier Fire & Rescue (more details linked below).
John's Funeral Service is Friday, December 6, at 1100 hours at Hertz Arena.
11000 Everblades Parkway, Estero, FL 33928 (Off I-75 in the Fort Myers area)
John McMahon, a cherished firefighter and drum major for the Guns and Hoses Pipes and Drums, tragically passed away by suicide on November 16, 2024, leaving SW Florida communities in mourning. His passing is a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by first responders, despite their outward strength and dedication. Throughout his entire career, he served on the CISM (Critical Incident Stress Management) Team, debriefing and counseling first responders.
Beyond his work as a Firefighter, John was a gifted musician and the heart of the Guns and Hoses Pipes and Drums. As the band’s drum major, he brought artistry, leadership, and dedication to every performance, representing first responders at parades, ceremonies, and events. John’s passion for music was infectious, and his performances celebrated the resilience and unity of the firefighting and first responder community. His leadership in the band was a source of pride, not just for himself but for those he performed alongside.
John’s tragic passing highlights the urgent need for the entire fire & emergency service community to prioritize mental health, particularly for first responders who face immense stress and trauma in their line of work. His loss has sparked conversations within the community about breaking the stigma surrounding mental health challenges and providing better support for those who dedicate their lives to protecting others.
John McMahon’s legacy of service, music, and compassion will live on in the hearts of those who knew him. As the community grieves this profound loss, his life serves as a reminder of the importance of mental health awareness and the need to support the heroes who so often put others before themselves.
Rest in peace, John McMahon. Your contributions to your community and your music will never be forgotten.
WATCH: VIDEO FEATURING JOHN FROM MISSION BBQ:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7QWEyjh3ueQ
COMPLETE FAMILY, MEMORIAL & OBITUARY INFORMATION:
Our condolences to all those affected. Rest in Peace.
Source: FirefighterCloseCalls.com