INDEPENDENCE, Mo. — The Independence firefighter who died earlier this month after collapsing on a service call was laid to rest Monday.
Hazardous Material Technician David Jameson Jr., 52, who spent 23 years with the Independence Fire Department, collapsed and later died at the hospital May 7 responding with his fire crew to an illegal backyard burn in the 9600 block of East 33rd Street South.
People who knew Jameson and others who never met him stood along the procession route to show support.
"I met David on a couple different occasions, very nice guy," Vince Bogue said. "I really liked him — very pleasant, very professional — so I just wanted to say goodbye."
Richard Liebau, a former volunteer firefighter, felt it was important for him to pay respects to a fallen brother.
"People are grateful for what we do and for what he's done, what he's paid the ultimate sacrifice for," Liebau said. "So, it shows the family that, 'Hey, we thank you so much for allowing our community to borrow your loved one to keep us safe.'"
Independence Fire Station No. 5, where Jameson spent most of his career with the Independence Fire Department, is in the middle of a neighborhood, where many neighbors said they've always had positive interactions with the firefighters.
"They do a commendable job and are much-needed," neighbor Diana Hough said. "It's just that people know that they're important to us."
Oren Hook lives across the street from the station and said he met Jameson several times.
"Real nice gentleman — he's a prince of a guy," Hook, "and it's just a sad, sad day."
Hook collected money from neighbors to provide a barbecue lunch for the station.
"They put their life on the line every time they have to leave," he said. "I wouldn't want the job. It's very demanding."
A public drive-thru visitation for Jameson took place Sunday at Cable Dahmer Arena in Independence. His funeral Monday was a private ceremony.
The funeral procession for Jameson, who had 10 children, passed by his former fire station.
Local companies donated masks and sanitizer for Jameson’s funeral.
Missouri Gov. Mike Parson ordered flags to be flown at half-staff Monday in Jameson’s honor.
Price Chopper stores in the Kansas City area are collecting donations for Jameson’s family through the end of the month.
