Firefighter Brian Woehlke Was Only 10 Months Into His Dream Job

Brian Woehlke, 29, was just 10 months into his dream job as a Wayne-Westland firefighter when he was killed after a roof collapsed on him during a fire at a strip mall, Eric D. Lawrence and Ann Zaniewski report in the Free Press.

He was the first firefighter killed in the line of duty in the Westland department’s 47-year history.

Family members, firefighters and neighbors mourned the death of the married father described as outgoing and happy, a man who never shied away from helping someone in need.

“He was just a great guy, in all ways,” said neighbor Maureen Ewasek, 80.

It’s not yet known what caused the blaze that destroyed the Electric Stick, a billiards hall, and Marvaso’s Italian Grille, which has been open for 10 years.