Late Saddle Brook Firefighter Shawn Sturdy Was A 'Rising Leader'

SADDLE BROOK, NJ — Shawn Sturdy was always learning. Always encouraging others. Always smiling.

Sturdy, a lieutenant with the Saddle Brook Fire Department, died Sunday from injuries sustained in an all-terrain vehicle accident June 8.

"I watched him grow up to be an unbelievable man," said Fire Chief Christopher Sloma. "To this day, I haven't met a happier, more respectful man in my life."

Sturdy, a lifelong Saddle Brook resident, followed in his father's footsteps and joined the Fire Department when he was 16. His father was a 35-year member and former battalion chief. Sturdy was a Saddle Brook High School alumnus and played varsity football.

"He grew up in the firehouse," Sloma said. "He was respectful, fun-loving, and always eager to learn. He was a rising leader."

Sloma said Sturdy worked for the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey as a bridge and tunnel agent. He patrolled areas to help control and expedite traffic, and responded to emergencies at the authority's bridges and tunnels.

"He was a well-liked and conscientious employee at work," Sloma said.

Sturdy was air-lifted to trauma center underwent several surgeries before he died. More than $13,000 was donated to his family on a GoFundMe page.

Sloma was waiting to hear about Sturdy's funeral arrangements.

"He had an ability to make anyone smile and he illuminated any room he entered," Sloma said. "Shawn has touched everyone he has ever met. He will be greatly missed."

Related: Saddle Brook Firefighter Shawn Sturdy Dies Following ATV Crash

Email [email protected]

Photo: Lt. Shawn Sturdy of the Saddle Brook Fire Department (Courtesy of Christopher Sloma)