Canton Fire Department urging awareness after firefighter dies from suicide [Video]

CANTON, Ohio — An American flag flew gently in the breeze at half-staff Monday outside of Fire Station #1 in Canton.

Inside, the gear of Jared Kneale, including his helmet, gloves and boots, were displayed by a fire truck as a tribute to a man who was loved by so many.

“Words can’t express the loss. Jared was a great guy. He’s the guy that everybody ran to. He was the guy who lit up the room,” said Division Chief Steven Henderson.

On a touching Canton Fire Facebook post, Kneale was also remembered as the “head chef” at the station who had an infectious laugh and always looked to help others.

Firefighters were devastated to learn that Kneale, a 42-year-old married father of six children, died from suicide last Friday.

With permission from Kneale’s family, firefighters shared part of the story to create awareness, and because they believe something positive …