Funeral Service Postponed for Chicago Firefighter After Widow Gives Birth

Private memorial for Michael Altman set for Tuesday after his death while battling apartment blaze

Mar. 29, 2026 at 9:21pm

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A private memorial ceremony will be held this week for Chicago firefighter Michael Altman, whose funeral was postponed after his widow gave birth to their second child. Altman, a 32-year-old member of the Chicago Fire Department, died while fighting an apartment fire in Rogers Park on March 16. Sheaves Slate, 27, has been charged with murder and arson in connection with Altman's death.

Why it matters

The death of a firefighter in the line of duty is always a tragic event that shakes the local community. Altman's passing has prompted an outpouring of support, as well as questions about the circumstances surrounding the fire that led to his death.

The details

Altman's private memorial service is scheduled for Tuesday at Blake-Lamb Funeral Home in Oak Lawn. It is invitation-only, but supporters are asked to line the route from 103rd Street and Cicero to 111th Street to Holy Sepulchre Catholic Cemetery in the south suburbs. Altman's funeral was postponed last week after his widow gave birth to their second child. A visitation was held on Thursday.

  • Altman died while battling a fire in Rogers Park on March 16, 2026.
  • Altman's private memorial service is scheduled for Tuesday, March 29, 2026.

The players

Michael Altman

A 32-year-old member of the Chicago Fire Department who died while battling an apartment fire in Rogers Park.

Sheaves Slate

A 27-year-old man who has been charged with murder and arson in connection with Altman's death.

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The takeaway

Altman's death has highlighted the risks and sacrifices that firefighters make to protect their communities, and the importance of supporting the families of those who make the ultimate sacrifice.