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."
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)