Funeral held for ex-captain Michael Fischer

Former Island Park Fire Department captain Michael Fischer recieved his final farewell Aug. 18 as hundreds turned up to pay their respects at his funeral at  Sacred Heart Church in Island Park.

His death is considered a line-of-duty death as he died while helping support his fellow firefighters raise money for Oceanside Fire Commisioner Michael Graham's cancer-stricken son Cooper at the annual Peter's eating contest Sunday.

Fire officials say the 38-year-old, known affectionately as "Fish," went into cardiac arrest after returning from the restroom at the restaurant and died of a heart attack.

Fire department and police medics worked for about 25 minutes to revive Fischer but were unable to regain a pulse.

"We thank the entire Nassau County Fire Service for the outpouring of support," the fire department said in a news release. "This is a dark day in our storied history."

At his funeral, former Island Park Fire Department Chief, Hempstead Town Councilman and congressional candidate Anthony D'Espositio posthumously promoted Fisher to honorary chief.

"on behalf of Chief Cardineau and the Island Park Fire Department and a grateful Village of Island Park we present this flag in honor of honorary chief Michael Fischer for his service, dedication and love of community," D'Esposito said. "May he rest in peace, may God bless him and may God bless the United States of America.