UPDATED: West Islip Firefighter Dies

Patrick Lamberson Sr., a West Islip firefighter and ex-captain of the department's Vanguard Engine Company died last week at a Florida hospital from a brain aneurysm.  He was 46. 

Lamberson is survived by his wife Teresa and their four children. 

According to the WIFD's website, he joined the department on October 7, 1982 and was named lieutenant of the Vanguard company in 2005 and elected captain in 2007. He was also a retired New York City police officer and member of the Hartford, Pa., fire department after purchasing a home in that area.

Hartford FD Chief Rick Moser said Lamberson was with them for five years and was a tremendous help training the newer firefighters.

"His death was a big shock to everyone," Moser said.  "It's a terrible loss, especially for the age the man was.  It was way too early.

"It's hard to explain.  When you spend five years with someone, you become family.  It's a brotherhood."

Moser said that he and other firefighters from Hartford will be travelling to West Islip Monday afternoon to pay their respects. 

A Facebook page was also created to share memories and show support for Lamberson's family. 

Funeral services are scheduled Monday at Chapey and Sons in West Islip from 2 p.m.-4:30 p.m. and 7 p.m.-9:30 p.m. with firematic services at 8 p.m. A Catholic Mass at St. Patrick's Church in Bay Shore will be held Tuesday at 10 a.m.

Tara Coppola contributed to this story.