Firefighter, 59, Dies of Heart Attack While Celebrating Wedding Anniversary

Flags in Ventura remain at half-staff this week following the recent off-duty death of a veteran city firefighter.

Matthew Clapsaddle with wife Jennifer

Matthew Clapsaddle, 59, died Aug. 20 of a heart attack while in Hawaii celebrating his 25th wedding anniversary.

 
His body is expected to return to Ventura on Friday.

The firefighter-paramedic had served with the Ventura Fire Department since 1994. Ventura City firefighters are wearing mourning bands on their badges.

“Clappy” is survived by his wife, Jennifer, and son, Tanner.

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