Lehigh Valley fire departments are mourning the death of a longtime Northampton Borough firefighter and former state police fire marshal.
The borough fire department posted on social media Wednesday that Capt. Michael Booke had died at age 57.
Booke joined the department in 1998 and served in several roles, with captain being his most recent title, the post states. In addition to his role as a firefighter, he was also a state trooper.
He was the fire marshal for state police Troop M, which covers Lehigh, Northampton and Bucks counties. He retired in 2017.
“Captain Booke was known for his willingness to assist others, often volunteering for difficult tasks, sharing his expertise, and providing support during challenging times,” the post reads in part.
Booke investigated numerous fires in the Lehigh Valley over the years, according to Morning Call reporting. He was among the people who responded to the explosion that killed five in 1999 at the Concept Sciences Inc. building in Hanover Township, Lehigh County.
On Wednesday, a number of local fire companies expressed condolences for Booke.
Mount Bethel Volunteer Fire Company Station 37 shared that Booke investigated many fires in the township and was always willing to share his knowledge with their firefighters. Coplay Fire Department called Booke a “great leader, firefighter and all around great person to be around.”
“His dedication and service to the community will never be forgotten,” Lehigh Township Fire Company posted.
George Umberger, who was also a fire marshal for Troop M, died this year. He was the fire marshal until 1998.