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Memorial arrangements have been set for CUPE local 873 members Jo-Ann Fuller and Ivan Polivka, two long-serving Tofino ambulance paramedics who were killed in an accident while on duty October 19.

The service will take place at 1 p.m. on Saturday, November 6 at Wickaninnish Community School in Tofino, B.C.

Thousands of paramedics, firefighters and police from across the country are expected to attend.

CUPE national president Paul Moist expressed his sadness upon hearing of the paramedics’ passing.

Of behalf of the CUPE National Executive and CUPE members across the country I want to extend our deepest condolences to the families of Jo-Ann and Ivan, their friends and fellow paramedics. That these two dedicated individuals served their community for 37 combined years shows how committed they were to their duty and profession. Our thoughts and prayers are with their families during this difficult time.”

Jo-Ann Fuller was also a member of the Hospital Employees’ Union, CUPE’s health employees division in BC.

The family of Jo-Ann Fuller released the following statement.

We want to thank everyone for their overwhelming support and respect for our privacy during this impossible time. Mom (Jo-Ann) was so well loved, and it shows with all the support we have been receiving. Her commitment to her family, her job and the community was evident in all she did. Being a paramedic was not just a job, it was her passion.

Our hearts go out to the Polivka family. He was a wonderful man and will be greatly missed. Again, we just want to thank everyone for the love they are sending. We wouldn’t be able to get by without it.”