He was a brother, a father and a friend to all, a dedicated EMT.
That's how the Hackensack Volunteer Ambulance Corps remembers former member Thomas Epper, 48, who was tragically killed Thursday removing a Saddle River tree for the Bergen County DPW.
Epper's sister, Terry Epper Muller, is a HVAC trustee, former captain and president.
"It is with deep regret that I have to announce the sudden, tragic passing of a former EMT of our Corps, Thomas Epper," President Brian Corcoran said in a release. "Please keep the Epper family in your prayers during this very difficult time."
Epper -- a two-year employee with the Bergen County DPW's mosquito division -- was among five other workers removing a tree when the bank of the river he was working in gave way underneath him, Saddle River Mayor Albert Kurpis said at a municipal meeting following the 5:15 p.m. incident.
The other workers, however, were unable to lift the tree that trapped Epper off of him, the mayor said. Epper was transported to The Valley Hospital where he ultimately succumbed to his injuries, Bergen County Executive James Tedesco said.
Thomas John Epper
Thomas John Epper, 48 of Hackensack, passed away tragically on Thursday July 26, 2018. He worked as an Assistant Supervisor of Heavy Equipment Operators, for the Bergen County Department of Public Works. He was a member of Union Local #655 Blue Collar.
Beloved Husband to Kathryn R. (nee Hodge). Loving father of Jared Hodge and Thomas Epper of Hackensack. Dearest brother to Catherine Mayer and her husband Kurt, Joseph Epper and his wife Evan, Teresa Muller and her husband Richard, Elaine Epper and step-brother to Guy and Henry Benson. Tommy also leaves behind several nieces, nephews and many close friends, he will be greatly missed.