Services Set For Morris Co. Firefighter Killed In The Line Of Duty

MORRIS COUNTY, NJ — Services are set to honor a Morris County volunteer firefighter who died in the line of duty last week.

Lt. Justin Bower, a member of the Kinnelon Volunteer Fire Company in Morris County, died on Saturday, the department confirmed in an announcement on Facebook on Tuesday.

According to a statement from the Morris Plains Fire Department and Fire Association, Bower had responded to a call, and when he returned home, he had a medical emergency. His wife found him unresponsive and called 911.

"Unfortunately, he passed away at his residence on Nov. 18," the department said.

Bowers, 30, of Butler, served as a volunteer for the local department as well as owning and operating the beloved local deli, Taste of Reality Delicatessen.

"Today I stood proud as I watched my good friend and fireman, Lt. Justin Bower, as he returned home. As I stood and watched, I had an extremely sad but proud feeling. Proud of the brotherhood that our police and firefighters have for each other. Proud that our town steps up for anyone in need. Proud that my wife and I called Justin and Jen friends. Justin you will be missed very much and we will always make sure your wife is ok," Kinnelon Mayor James Freda said.

A GoFundMe page created to support his family described Bowers as a “beloved” husband, son, brother, uncle, friend and member of his community.

"He has touched the lives of so many people around him through his service, always lending a hand when needed, answering every call. His humor, his generosity and his kindness will not be forgotten," the GoFundMe reads.

A memorial service will be held at Morrisons Funeral Home, 86 Bartholdi Avenue in Butler, on Sunday from 3 to 8 p.m. At 7 p.m., there will be a fireman walk-through and salute.

The funeral will be held at the same location on Monday at 11 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that donations be made to the Kinnelon Volunteer Fire Company. Anyone interested in making a donation should contact the Kinnelon Volunteer Fire Company at 10-03 Kiel Avenue, Kinnelon, NJ 07405.