Funeral Details Announced For Berwick Firefighter Joel Barnes

There will be two funerals for Berwick Fire Captain Joel Barnes, including a private family ceremony, and a public memorial service.

Captain Barnes lost his life last Friday, while fighting an apartment house fire. Four other firefighters were injured, as well, but all the tenants made it out safely. Firefighters around the state have expressed their condolences, as well as their desire to attend Barnes' funeral.

It was announced today that a public memorial service will be held on Sunday, March 10th, at the Cross Insurance Arena in Portland, which will begin at 11 a.m. A separate, family service will be held earlier Sunday morning at a local church, which will not be open to the public. The Berwick Fire Department has posted a list of details for fire department personnel, including a request that they leave all firefighting apparatus at home, due to traffic and logistical restraints.

Captain Joel Barnes, age 32, was a paramedic and was the training officer and emergency medical services coordinator for Berwick. He had previously worked for a department in South Carolina, as well as several others in Maine.

Family members have asked that any donations in Captain Barnes' name be sent to the Berwick Volunteer Firefighter Association, c/o Kennebunk Savings Bank, 2 School Street, Berwick, Maine 03901.

Governor Janet Mills has directed all United States and State of Maine flags flown at half-staff immediately, and until sunset on the day of the funeral, Sunday, March 10th.