Wife of Fallen Baltimore Co. Firefighter: 'I Have Lost My Best Friend'

The family of Robert Fogle III -- the Baltimore County firefighter who suffered a fatal heart attack Friday during a training exercise at the Fire-Rescue Academy -- has thanked the community for the support they have received.

They request privacy during this time of mourning, county officials said.

Fogle, 58, was going through a maze-like obstacle in the Sparrows Point training facility when he collapsed, according to ABC 2 News, which broke the story.

Fogle was an engine driver with the Pikesville station, according to WJZ, which reported this was the only death that has been reported at the facility. He was nearing retirement, according to ABC 2.

Carol Ann Fogle, the wife of Robert Fogle III, asked the Baltimore County Fire Department to share this statement:

We cannot begin to express in adequate words the sincere appreciation and gratitude we are feeling at this most unexpected and difficult time. Be it known that we feel the strength of your thoughts and prayers, and they are most comforting.

We would like to extend a special "thank you" to all who are tirelessly and feverishly working behind the scenes, putting in untold hours to prepare seamlessly for the final celebration of my husband’s life. This is such a selfless act of kindness and generosity. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

Bob touched so many lives that it is impossible to know the magnitude of grief being felt across the State and nation. His contacts were many beyond the State’s borders.

For those of you who personally knew Bob, we say to you, "thank you," for touching his life as well. We encourage you to embrace any pain of loss you feel from his untimely departure, and then let it go; hold on only to those thoughts and memories that are good.

We personally feel a deep sense of loss. Bob was a wonderful father to Casey and Garrett. He was active in their lives and worked tirelessly to provide them with many rich life experiences so that as adults they are prepared to contribute to their world in a meaningful way.

For me personally, I have not only lost my husband, I have lost my best friend. The grief I feel is numbing, the sorrow I feel is overwhelming.

The love and support from family, friends, the fire community and the community at large – along with our faith – sustains us from day to day.

“Thank you” just does not seem to say enough.