Austin Michael Duran of Apopka, Florida – a loving son, brother, grandson and so much more, was born in Orlando on May 25, 1997. He was tragically taken from us in the line of duty on July 15, 2022. Austin is survived by his mother Gail, father Michael, his sister Sierra, girlfriend Sydney, and many aunts, uncles, cousins, and his extended firefighter family. Although born in Orlando he felt at home and said he would always live in the Apopka bubble.
Austin was instantly liked by anyone who met him. People were drawn to his gentle demeanor, goofy personality, and easygoing manner. Austin and his sister Sierra shared a special bond and were not only siblings’ but best friends. His love of his Xbox was only surpassed by the love of Sydney, his long-term girlfriend. He enjoyed spending time with friends and family kayaking at the springs and going to the theme parks.
Austin found his calling at an early age after talking to his cousin who is also firefighter and joining the Explorers in high school. He knew from that point on that he wanted a career in Firefighting and joined the Apopka Fire Department in July 2020. He viewed the people he worked with not as coworkers but as brothers and sisters and AFD quickly became his second family.
Austin has left an undeniable impact that will live on in all our hearts and souls. Rest easy, we will take it from here. We will love you forever.
A memorial service will be held at Journey Christian Church in Apopka FL that is open to the public, the inside seating is reserved for uniformed first responders only. No media will be allowed.