Robert Sharkevich Sr.

On October 22, 2024, Firefighter Robert Sharkevich, Sr., lost his life when a utility vehicle carrying four firefighters overturned on Lamentation Mountain in Berlin, Connecticut, landing on him. He suffered fatal blunt force head and neck injuries. Two other firefighters suffered minor injuries. They were battling a massive brush fire that had ravaged the area. Sharkevich was 66 years old and had worked in the fire service for over 47 years. 

Sharkevich, affectionately known as “Sharkey”, was born in Hartford, Connecticut, and graduated from A.I. Prince Tech as a carpenter. He began his 25-year career with the Hartford Fire Department in 1982. Several of those years included being a driver of the tactical unit, one of the busiest in the country. In September 2001, he responded to the search and rescue mission at Ground Zero following the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center in New York. He joined his fellow firefighters, assisting in the recovery efforts with bravery and selflessness during this tragic time for America. After retiring from the Hartford Fire Department, he joined the Wethersfield Volunteer Fire Department, Company 3, where he served for 22 years. He was an engineer/driver of Engine 21. During his career, he pulled many people out of burning buildings and performed countless other rescues. He lived a life of service to others, doing a job he loved. He made an incredible and lasting impact on the Town of Wethersfield and the people of the community. He selflessly answered the call of duty and stood on the front lines when danger loomed. He embodied the spirit of service, driven by a deep sense of courage and purpose. Sharkevich also worked as a carpenter and maintainer for the Wethersfield Public School District for the last four years, making a difference in the lives of the students he cared for so deeply. 

Sharkevich was married to his loving wife, Joanne, for 20 years. He had four children: Robert Sharkevich, Jr., who served alongside his father as a Lieutenant in the Wethersfield Fire Department, Kristy Sharkevich, and twin sons, Camden and Kayden. His nephew, Gary, is also a Chief in the Wethersfield Fire Department. He loved his family deeply and was a devoted husband and father. He enjoyed playing golf, being a “Grill Master” at home, attending family events, and had a passion for the Red Sox, Bruins, Giants and the former Hartford Whalers. He enjoyed watching his sons play hockey and soccer. He had a caring nature and a great sense of humor. He will be remembered as a true hero who always put others before himself. 

Fire Engineer Robert Sharkevich, Sr., is survived by his devoted wife, Joanne, his children, Robert Jr., Kristy, Camden and Kayden, his grandchildren, Jourdan and Adriana, his brothers, Steven and Gary, his sisters, Cathi and Karen, and many other cherished family members and friends.  

The Tunnel to Towers Foundation has paid off the mortgage on the Sharkevich family home through the Fallen First Responder Home Program.