Submitted by Kerri Massura, Sister of Firefighter Kevin W. Reveal

Firefighter Kevin Reveal of the Herrin Fire Department died in the line of duty while fighting a fire in Hurst, Illinois at a commercial 2-story, boarded up, vacant building. The incident occurred as firefighters backed away from the building to move into defensive mode to protect the city municipal building which was adjacent to the structure. The eastern wall, which appeared structurally sound to all observers, suddenly collapsed. Reveal, who had been contributing to ventilation operations by cutting and prying plywood off of window openings, was caught in the collapse of the two-story brick wall.

Kevin was a certified Class II firefighter and served as a Paid On Call Firefighter for the Herrin Fire Department. Kevin had previously served as a volunteer for the Williamson County Fire Department and Lake of Egypt Fire Department in Southern Illinois. He was studying for his Class III certification when the fire call came in. Kevin was also an emergency medical technician and had previously worked at the Herrin Ambulance Service.

Kevin was a devoted husband, father, brother and son. Kevin graduated from Herrin High School in Herrin, IL where he was very competitive in cross country. Kevin was an avid runner and competed in triathlons, the annual River to River Relay through Southern Illinois and several marathons.

To know Kevin was to love him. He had a witty sense of humor, a kind heart, and a dedication to every aspect of his life. His smile would light up a room. His light lives on through his family, friends and everyone whose life he touched.