The community said goodbye to a veteran firefighter last week

April Rae Lubenetski, 51, died on May 19 from occupational cancer. Her death is being classified as a line of duty death, due to repeated exposure to carcinogens while working as a firefighter for over 20 years.

Lubenetski served many communities in Lehigh and Northampton Counties throughout her over 26 years of dedication to emergency services.

Most recently, she was employed as a master firefighter with the Borough of Emmaus Fire Department and a volunteer firefighter/EMT with the Lehigh Township Fire Department.

She was also a volunteer with the Lehigh Valley County Animal Rescue Team, a rescue and hazardous materials specialist with the Lehigh County Special Operations and a member of the Pennsylvania Urban Search and Rescue Co. 3.

Additionally, Lubenetski had previously been a member of the Han-Le-Co and Catasauqua fire departments.

According to her obituary, she served with the Lehigh Township fire company, starting in 2008.

“Despite her diagnosis, she was still seen at the fire company’s events that she could physically go to. Her commitment and dedication to public safety will never be forgotten,” the company posted. “Our hearts go out to all who served by her side.”

Lubenetski was a lead customer service representative for United HealthCare. She attained her associate degree in criminal justice from Northampton Community College, with specialized training in alcohol and shemical dependency counseling.

To celebrate her life and commitment to the fire service, friends, family and members of multiple fire and EMS departments from Lehigh and Northampton counties gathered on Saturday.

The ceremonies began at the Emmaus Fire Department, with a short service. A procession of fire department apparatus and emergency vehicles then escorted Lubenetski’s remains to the Bethany Wesleyan Church in Lehigh Township for funeral services.

Upon entering the church, multiple photographs of Lubenetski, most of which had her brimming with a warm smile, were on display. Her bunker gear from Emmaus and Lehigh Township were also present.

Her husband, Shawn, also a volunteer and career firefighter, carefully carried her remains into the church while being escorted by a bagpiper. Fire personnel saluted as they passed, then falling in behind to be seated in the auditorium.

During the services, her godchildren and friends took to the stage to share the impact that she had on their lives. Her husband was the last to speak and impressed upon the importance of having end of life conversations with loved ones and to also do one’s own research when seeking health care services. His eulogy concluded with heartfelt memories that he shared with his wife, who he described as his “best friend.”

A Firefighters Scholarship Fund is being established in her name. Checks are payable to Shawn M. Lubenetski and can be mailed to 444 Pershing Blvd., Whitehall, PA 18052-6411.