Mitchell M. McClain | Firefighter, 40

Mitchell M. McClain, 40, of Mount Airy, a Philadelphia firefighter and technical sergeant in the Air Force Reserve, died of an apparent heart attack Saturday at Virtua Memorial Hospital Burlington County in Mount Holly. He became ill while participating in a "Fit-to-Fight" running exercise at McGuire Air Force Base.

Mr. McClain joined the Fire Department in 2002. Previously, he was a foreman with the Philadelphia Streets Department for 10 years. He was assigned to Ladder Company 25 in East Falls.

"He loved his job. The Fire Department was like family to him," said his wife, Denise Bess McClain.

Mr. McClain grew up in North Philadelphia and graduated from Dobbins High School. He studied engineering for two years at Temple University before enlisting in the Air Force in 1989. He participated in Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm in 1990 and 1991 while on active duty and in the Gulf War in 2003 while a reservist.

He gave his all to the Air Force and to the Fire Department, risking his life for his country and his community, his wife said.

Mr. McClain enjoyed his tropical fish, vacations in the Poconos, and trips to Atlantic City casinos. He was an avid bike rider and kept in good shape, his wife said.

In addition to his wife of 14 years, Mr. McClain is survived by a son, Rahsule; his parents, Ophelia and Mitchell; four brothers; and a sister.

A funeral will be held at 11 a.m. today at Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church, 230 W. Coulter St., where friends may call after 9. Burial will be in Chelten Hills Cemetery.