01/14/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 01/14/2026 16:28
Published on January 14, 2026
NORTH PORT, FL - North Port Fire Rescue, joined by the community and fire service family from across the region, honored the life and service of Firefighter/Engineer Victor Cleveland during a funeral service held on Jan. 14 at The Bridge Church in Venice. The service paid tribute to Cleveland's years of dedicated service to North Port and his enduring legacy of honor, perseverance and service.
Hundreds of people attended the funeral service, including firefighters, honor guards and public safety personnel from surrounding and partner agencies. A multi-agency procession featuring apparatus from neighboring departments accompanied the service.
Cleveland began his fire service career as a volunteer firefighter with the Nokomis Volunteer Fire Department, later serving with the Florida Forest Service before joining North Port Fire Rescue in 2009.
Throughout his career, he earned the respect of colleagues and community members alike for his professionalism, dedication to duty and unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of others.
"Victor exemplified what it means to serve with courage, humility and heart," Fire Chief Scott Titus said. "His contributions reflect a legacy of service that will continue to guide and inspire our department and our community for years to come."
Cleveland passed away due to cancer on Dec. 11, 2025, at age 48. He is survived by his wife Amy, his children Delaney and Alton and his granddaughter Felicity.