Hundreds Mourn Chicago Diver Who Died During River Search

Note: Juan Bucio's funeral services will be streamed here beginning at 12 p.m.

Hundreds of firefighters and other mourners gathered for the funeral of a Chicago Fire Department diver who died while searching for a boater who fell overboard into the Chicago River.

Bucio’s brother Isaac a firefighter himself, expressed how his brother will live on through his two sons and thanked everyone for supporting his family in this time of great loss.

“No words to explain what you guys have done for my brother,” he said.

Mayor Rahm Emanuel also made an appearance Monday to commemorate the hero.

“Today we honor a brave life,” Mayor Emanuel said.

Gov. Bruce Rauner was among those who attended Sunday's visitation for 46-year-old diver Juan Bucio at St. Rita of Cascia Chapel. The southwest Chicago church is the site of Bucio's funeral on Monday.

Bucio was a 15-year member of the Chicago Fire Department and the father of 7- and 9-year-old sons.

Officials say Bucio became separated from his partner and died during the search on the evening of Memorial Day. An investigation into what happened is ongoing.

Friends of Alberto Lopez found his body in the river on Friday, four days after his fall overboard prompted the search.

The funeral mass honoring Bucio was held at St. Rita’s of Cascia Church in the city’s Wrightwood neighborhood. A private burial service will be held later in the day at Mount Auburn Cemetery in Stickney. 

Rauner ordered all flags in the state to fly at half-staff in honor of Bucio. 

"We will never forget his sacrifice, and we will always be grateful for his service," Rauner said in a statement. 

A public visitation was held for Bucio on Sunday afternoon, as friends and family gathered to mourn his loss.