SCHUYLKILL COUNTY, Pa. (WHP) — Pennsylvania State Trooper Michael Pahira was remembered and celebrated during a funeral service at his alma mater in Ashland, Pennsylvania.
During the funeral service, family and friends shared stories about Pahira’s sacrifice as a trooper and how he was there for his friends and family.
“One of Mikey’s friends said it best: the only thing bigger than Mikey’s cowboy hat was his heart,” Pahira’s parents and sister wrote in a note that was read during the service.
The family said, “your entire life was defined by thousands of quiet, selfless acts of kindness.”
Gov. Josh Shapiro and Lt. Gov. Austin Davis attended the service, along with hundreds of state police personnel, friends and family.
“Let us channel the anger and sorrow that we feel today into lasting support for those who Mike has left behind,” Shapiro said during the service.
Lt. Col. George Bivens told a story about when Pahira responded to a residential fire in Pottsville in 2016.
Bivens said Pahira ran into the building and helped evacuate 11 people. He received a commendation medal for his efforts that night.
“To his family, his legacy is not defined by the way he died, but the way he lived,” Bivens said. “Michael, your watch is over. You answered every call that was placed before you.”
Trooper Chris Graf, a personal friend who served with Pahira, told stories about how they became friends in seventh grade and remained friends ever since.
“Go with God and the angels, brother.” Graf said. “You have a much bigger family than you will ever know.”
Pahira’s high school wrestling coach, Rick Edwards, described him as “a force to be reckoned with” who worked hard and never gave up.
In lieu of flowers, Pahira’s family is accepting memorial contributions that will go toward a wrestling scholarship in his name.
To donate to Pahira’s family, click here.
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Pahira died in the line of duty while being hit while inspecting a tractor-trailer on July 1.
Bivens said Pahira, who served for more than 20 years, “died a hero.“
First responders and community members are expected to line Centre Street in Ashland while Pahira is taken to his final resting place.
Burial services will only be extended to Pahira’s family, close friends, and fellow members of Pennsylvania State Police.
Pahira’s funeral was streamed live on CBS 21, along with the YouTube and Facebook pages.