Saturday evening was filled with laughter and tears for those who knew Virginia Beach master firefighter Matthew Gallina.
“He was a good fireman, a knowledgeable guy, and an important part of my career and the department,” said one friend.
But they wanted more time with him.
“I wish the road was longer for him,” added Aaron Savell, who worked with and was a close friend of Gallina .
Those who knew him described Gallina as a loyal friend, father, husband and servant to the community.
“Loyal was his number one trait. If you were on the team, you were on the team,” said Savell.
Gallina died Wednesday from occupational cancer .
“And right now we’re dealing with the aftermath and I would rather be dealing with prevention,” said Gallina’s wife Michelle Gallina.
She said she’s feeling a wave of emotions . Her husband was diagnosed with stage 4 esophageal cancer last year, but she wishes they knew sooner. Gallina’s more than 20 years as a firefighter meant constant risk of exposure to cancer-causing elements.