NSW bushfires: Widowed mum-to-be’s tribute to a hero husband
The day before Samuel McPaul died in his fire truck, he was sharing ultrasound photos of his unborn child with wife Megan. Today at his funeral, his grieving widow said: ‘Sam’s bub will grow up hearing the stories of how amazing (he was)’
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The day before Samuel McPaul tragically died in his fire truck, he was sharing ultrasound photos of his unborn child with wife Megan and their extended family.
Today the grieving widow shared a moving tribute to her husband in a public service where hundreds gathered to mourn Mr McPaul.
The brave firefighter lost his life in a freak accident on December 30 while battling the state’s horrific bushfires when the truck he was travelling in crashed at Jingellic.
His wife and partner of more than seven years described the 28-year-old as “creative”, “positive” and with an “infectious smile”.
Mrs McPaul did not speak at the service but a message from her was read out by friend Jarrod Anderson in which she described her husband’s fondness of animals, his dedication to his mother Christine and his excitement for his unborn child.
“Sam’s bub will grow up hearing the stories of how amazing their father was. How special they are to have such an amazing man as their father. Sam would be remembered more than he ever realised,” Mr Anderson said.
NSW bushfires: Share your story and support for our heroes
“He could talk and definitely offered his opinion, without needing an invitation. His heart was even bigger than his smile.
“He was a soulmate, a husband, a father to be, a son, a brother, a friend, and supporter.”
It was also revealed that the expectant father had insisted the couple do not find out the gender of the baby and was “over the moon” that the young family was growing – adding to their “fur babies” Echo the Kelpie, Banjo the Border Collie and Squig the cat.
“He had a heart that wanted to help everyone and would always offer ‘if you need me I am here to help’,” her statement said.
“Megan could live in a cardboard box if it meant she would be with her man.”
Joining the family were rows of Rural Fire Service who lined the edge of the Holbrook Sport Stadium where Mr McPaul used to play basketball, saying goodbye to one of their own.
The volunteer was remembered by his family and community as “the person who would give you the shirt off his own back if he thought it would help and not expect anything in return.”
Photos of Mr McPaul and his wife were displayed throughout the room, many from their wedding in 2018.
“Meg you’ve carried yourself with great grace and compassion. You are to be commended in your brokenness your grace and beauty has shines,” Senior Chaplain Ian Spall said.
“You’re not alone Meg. As he lay there (injured) there was an inordinate amount of people who stood guard over him and refused to leave.”