SAN DIEGO COUNTY, Calif. — San Diego first responders came together Friday to bid a final farewell to beloved firefighter-paramedic Nick Ramirez, 59, who passed away on February 16 from complications due to COVID-19.
Ramirez joined the San Diego Fire-Rescue Department in 2003 and was promoted to Deputy Fire Marshal in the Community Risk Reduction Division in 2014, his most recent assignment.
The San Diego-Fire Rescue Department said on their Facebook page that Nick had a "lightning quick wit" and made those around him laugh constantly.
"He always entered a room with a smile and never left without leaving smiles on the faces of others," the department said in a statement.
"Nick absolutely loved the fire service and was an outstanding paramedic...He treated every patient as if they were a member of his own family. His compassion knew no bounds, both with his fire family and his patients."
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On Tuesday, March 8, in honor of Ramirez, Capitol flags were flown at half-staff. Governor Gavin Newsom issued the following statement regarding the death of the San Diego firefighter:
“Jennifer and I mourn the untimely passing of Firefighter-Paramedic Ramirez and extend our sincerest condolences to his family, friends and colleagues during this painful time. Firefighter-Paramedic Ramirez was a dedicated first responder and beloved member of the community who will be dearly missed.”
Ramirez is survived by his wife and two daughters.
WATCH: First responders pay tribute to beloved San Diego firefighter (March 11, 2022)