Worcester, MA- On a cool breezy March day Worcester Firefighters were tasked with their worst duty, laying a fellow firefighter to rest.

Lieutenant Donald M. Quinlan 52, of Barre, Massachusetts was laid to rest today in the Worcester County Memorial Park in Paxton, Massachusetts. Lt Quinlan, a 30 year veteran of the Worcester Fire Department passed away Saturday as a result of an injury sustained at a fire on New Years Day. Lt Quinlan suffered a broken ankle with which complications from the injury led to his death.

Lt Quinlan served most of his career on Rescue 1. He also served for 6 years as Chief of Department in the rural town of Barre, Massachusetts. Lt Quinlan was a well known, respected member of the Worcester Fire Department.

Lt Quinlan's loss is felt through-out the fire service community. I am proud to say that I knew the Lt for close to 20 years. Back in the day I could be found at Central Division hanging out all the time with all the Group 1 guys. I took my first ride on Rescue 1 in 1992 thanks to Lt Quinlan. Rest in peace Lt, you will be missed by all!

Donations may be made to the Lt. Donald M. Quinlan Scholarship Fund, c/o the Worcester Fire Department Credit Union, 34 Glennie St., Worcester, MA 01605