VIDEO/PHOTOS: A funeral and procession were held Tuesday to honor the life of longtime Hamilton Fire Department Chief David Haverdink, who died on Christmas Day after he was hit by a vehicle while working a scene. The funeral service at Central Wesleyan Church in Holland streamed live on the church’s website.
Some of the first to arrive in the church parking lot were fire trucks, ambulances, police cruisers and personnel from emergency agencies that Haverdink served alongside in his career, which spanned decades. It was a somber scene as they filed into the church to honor him.
Even in death, Haverdink honored those he served alongside with one last “thank you,” presented by his sons as they reflected on his life and legacy.
“On behalf of our dad and your chief, he would want to thank each of you for your service to the community for your dedication and loyalty to each other, your professionalism and the pride you took in your difficult work. Dad was proud to serve with you all no matter when that was. He loved you all and you were his second family. The bond you all shared was something only you understand it is special and it is deep,” his son said.
