Firefighter Ho Wai-ho, killed in Hong Kong’s deadliest residential fire since 1980, is laid to rest as colleagues and public pay tearful tribute
HONG KONG: Dozens of people lined the streets on Friday to bid a tearful farewell to a firefighter killed tackling the world’s deadliest residential building blaze since 1980.
Ho Wai-ho, 37, died in the line of duty in the inferno that engulfed several tower blocks at Wang Fuk Court in northern Tai Po district last month, killing at least 160 people.
His fiancee Kiki led the tributes with a message on a heart-shaped wreath reading, “Deep in misery… I cannot forget you.”
Outside, dozens of Ho’s fellow firefighters in pristine service uniforms saluted as his coffin passed by on the back of a truck bedecked with ribbons and floral arrangements.
Some had red eyes and choked back tears as they bid farewell to their colleague, whose casket was draped in the Hong Kong flag.
Walls outside the funeral parlour were lined with wreaths and covered with cards from residents.
“Gone but never forgotten. Holding you close in our thoughts,” read a note from a primary school student.
The Fire Services Department said Ho was an industrious and polite member of the force throughout his nine years of service.
“Being courageous, selfless and dedicated, he will no doubt stay in the minds of Hong Kong people forever,” it said in a statement.
The hearse passed by the blocks of Wang Fuk Court and the Sha Tin Fire Station where he had served.
Onlooker Patrick Yang, 26, said he came to pay his respects and let Ho know “he’s done a great job” and should “get a good rest”.
“Brother Ho, you are off duty now. Thank you for all your efforts,” a note left by fellow firefighters read.
Ho’s coffin was laid to rest on Friday at Gallant Garden, a graveyard for officers killed on duty.
A fire helmet was placed atop the casket as it was lowered into the grave.
Dozens of firefighters stood shoulder to shoulder, bidding him their final farewell.
“Rest in peace, Wai Ho… You are the pride and glory of our Sha Tin Fire Station,” one officer said tearfully.
“You are such a hero… Let us meet again in heaven.”
Ho is survived by his parents, an elder brother, a younger brother and his fiancee. – AFP
