They excelled in their field, the best of an elite corps of air rescue personnel. Courageous, strong and selfless team members, they inspire us. We will miss their compassion and their ability to live life to the fullest.<br />
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Erik Hangartner lost his life April 25, 2000 when the helicopter he was riding hit a radio transmission tower. The crew had completed the transport of a trauma patient to St. Petersburg, Florida and were en route to their base in Tampa, when the crash occurred. There were no survivors.<br />
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Mr. Hangartner, 29, was a paramedic and a firefighter for Indian Rocks Fire Department. He had extensive experience including emergency room paramedic, with a special talent for pediatric patients. He worked at Bayflite 3 as a flight paramedic. Erik was always teaching others a wide variety of infield courses. He inspired others to be the best they could be, and set an example for others to follow. Erik had taken the day off at the fire department to fly the day of the crash to cover a shift. He was a perfectionist, tireless, and dedicated towards all aspects of his life.<br />
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"Everyone loved spending time with Erik," said a friend. He was such a fun-loving guy who took pleasure in everything he did. He will be fondly remembered as a magnificent cook, making the best chili and spaghetti; whipping these meals up for all crewmembers pulling a 24-hour shift. Erik loved taking care of the helicopter, treating it as his own.<br />
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He had enough energy for five men, and he was always doing something good with that energy. He was a devoted father, who loved to spend his leisure time with his family. His dedication to his job and his family, and his tireless energy is legendary.<br />
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He is survived by his wife Tara,and their four children Dalton, Austin, Samantha, and Cheyenne, all of the home.<br />
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Honored 2001 |