Funeral services set for longtime firefighter

The Ohio Association of Firefighters has announced funeral arrangements for Beachwood and Willowick Fire Captain Michael L. Palumbo Jr.

Palumbo, of Concord Township, lost his battle with a rare occupational brain cancer May 24. He was 49.

The Palumbo family will receive friends and visitors from 1 to 4 p.m. and 5 to 8 p.m. June 1 and June 2 at Monreal Funeral Home, 35400 Curtis Blvd., Eastlake.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be 1 p.m. June 3 at Immaculate Conception Church, 37932 Euclid Ave., Willoughby.

Burial will follow at All Souls Cemetery in Chardon Township.

The funeral procession will include two fire trucks, one each from Beachwood and Willowick.

The procession will cross under two ladders at it enters the cemetery.

Visitation and the funeral Mass are open to the public.

Palumbo is described by his wife, Christina, as a devoted husband, father, and friend who always put his faith and family first.

“He was an honorable husband who was committed to his family,” said Palumbo’s wife Christina.

“He was devoted, faithful and proud of his kids and he worked as hard as could so his kids could succeed.”

Euclid fire Lt. Bill Mastroianni and a close friend of the Palumbo family described him as always exemplifying the true meaning of brotherhood.

“Mike always put others before himself and was there to teach,” Mastroianni said.

“He was the example of what a true leader should be.

Palumbo is most noted for his help in passing the law that bears his name enabling firefighters to file for benefits with a diagnosis of occupational cancer that isn’t

“Mike’s legacy isn’t only about the Michael Palumbo act,” Mastroianni said. “He has left an imprint on the fire service which will transcend to future generations of firefighters.”

“He was well-respected and a mentor to all,” Christina said.

“He was a role model and a brother to all, and above all he was a friend to all.”

Palumbo