Pocono News Section

Friends Remember Heroes Who Died During Ice Rescue

Friends Remember Heroes Who Died During Ice Rescue - Sunday, February 22, 2009 at 6:52PM EST

NORTH ABINGTON TWP., LACKAWANNA COUNTY- People in the Abingtons are still in shock after two well known men died Saturday. They were rescuing a 5-year-old girl and her mom who fell into a pond. The two men rescued them but could not save themselves. The victims are being remembered as heroes.
Mark Keene and his stepson Willard Roy Van Fleet, Jr. died saving a little girl and her mom from this pond in North Abington Township. "They're very good people. Two very good men that are going to be very missed in the community here," said neighbor Tanya Prescott.

Keene was 55 years old. He had a heart attack during the rescue and died later at the hospital. Van Fleet was 36. He drowned. "It's such a terrible loss because he was such a young man and he had such a big heart," said Prescott. "I couldn't have asked for a better neighbor. He was the best guy that there is."

Tanya told us whenever she needed help the men were there to give it to her. Most helped her build this house and when it would snow he would plow this long driveway for her. "He died like he lived. Helping someone in need," she added.

Keene was also a volunteer for the Scott Township Fire Company. His death was tough on rescue workers. About 100 turned out to help Saturday.

Dalton Chief Ron Stacknick said, "We all pulled together like we always do and do our best. It does get emotional afterwards once the dust is settling."

It will be hard for many in the community to deal with the loss of two men - known for dedicating their lives to others. "Our hearts go out along with our thoughts and prayers," Stacknick.

Grief counseling was held for first responders who took part in Saturday’s ice rescue. The Dalton Fire Chief says the counseling is still ongoing for anyone who needs it.