Tributes and accolades continue to reverberate through the ranks of first responders across Alberta over the sudden death of paramedic Mike Hart, who died while on duty in Airdrie on Dec. 18 at the Urgent Care Centre.

The 43-year-old Alberta Health Services (AHS) paramedic was well known for his passionate dedication to serving people in the greater Calgary region, including Redwood Meadows, Cochrane, and Canmore.

Hart is reported to have died after going into cardiac arrest near the end of his shift. Attempts to resuscitate him by the urgent centre's staff were unsuccessful.

"Mike Hart will be remembered as one of the best, respected by all," states the Canmore Fire Fighters Association, whose members came to know him when he was with Canmore Fire and more recently as a casual advanced care paramedic. "Rest easy Mike, gone too soon."

Redwood Meadows Emergency Services posted photos from when he served there with the words, "Rest Easy."

Due to the sensitive situation, Cochrane firefighters have declined to make a statement at this point.

Officials of the Health Sciences Association of Alberta (HSAA) said Hart was a dedicated professional, loved by peers, community, and family.

In a more recent statement, union officials said, "The sudden loss of a member, a dedicated professional and friend deeply respected by colleagues and family, alike, continues to reverberate through our ranks. The feelings of grief, regret, and helplessness at not being able to respond to one of our own at the critical moment will linger."

HSAA encourages EMS professionals in need of assistance to utilize the Employee & Family Assistance Program or contact the EMS Provincial Peer Support Line at 403-888-5181.