Courtesy: Greensboro Fire Department
Chicago, IL -- A Fire Captain from Greensboro is being mourned by co-workers, family and friends through out the Triad.
"Will was a natural leader, an avid runner, and was called home while performing one of his most enjoyed activities," said his fellow crew member and friend, Captain Tim Fields.
Caviness' crew was at Station 14 on Monday. Fields said it was difficult for them to come in. But, to them, it's home.
"Many of us would say it's a calling," said Fields about being a firefighter. "I think will would fit that profile perfectly. It seemed to be what he was born to do."
Capt. William Caviness collapsed while running the Chicago Marathon on Sunday and died about two hours later at the hospital.
Monday, the Greensboro Fire Department said Caviness was an 8 year veteran with the department. He was promoted to Captain in December 2010 and was serving at Station 14 on Summit Ave. He previously worked for Station 5 on Westover Terrace.
Some of his other work with the department included: being a member of the Honor Guard, Water Rescue Task Force, High angle confined space, Trench Rescue, Land Search and Vehicle Extrication Teams. Caviness was also involved in the VIP for a VIP program, which teaches teenagers about safe driving and consequences.
Fire Chief Greg Grayson released this statement about Caviness' death: "Our hearts and prayers go out to the entire Caviness family in this tremendous loss of Captain Will Caviness. The Greensboro Fire Department family is grieving this great loss and will strive to support the Caviness family through this difficult time."
Chief Grayson said Caviness was in Chicago with his wife Jenny Caviness, who works for the city of Greensboro and his brother Sean, who is also a Greensboro Fire Captain.
Caviness was running the marathon to raise money for IAFF Burn Foundation.
The President of the Professional Firefighters of Greensboro, Dave Coker, said Caviness never looked for praise from his work with the Burn Foundation. He was just doing the right thing.
Click here to visit Caviness' fundraising page for the Chicago Marathon. His goal was to raise $2,000 for the race. Many are continuing to donate in Caviness' memory.
CBS News, Chicago
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