Florida Highway Patrol Trooper Michael Diego laid to rest in Collier County

COLLIER COUNTY, Fla. — Trooper Michael T. Diego was laid to rest with a heartfelt ceremony on Saturday. A procession of patrol vehicles escorted him from Hodges Funeral Home to First Naples Church.

Trooper Diego passed away earlier this month after experiencing a medical emergency during a training exercise at the Florida Highway Patrol Training Academy in Tallahassee. Family, friends, and first responders gathered to say their final goodbyes.

"We're looking forward to blessing the family today," said George Smyrnios with the Florida Highway Patrol. "We're going to lift the Lord up with the gospel, and we're going to lift Michael up because he is worthy of a life well remembered. We love you. FHP loves you, and we are always here for you."

Diego’s mother expressed their deep loss, saying, "It was just me, him and Alyssa, the three of us against the world. And though my heart is shattered and it is broken, I would not change who he was. I would not change his courage. I would not change his calling because he lived exactly how he wanted to live, loving hard, serving boldly and standing tall."

His sister said, "I never imagined I'd have to be the first to say goodbye. That's not the way it's supposed to be. He was my rock, my confidant. He kept me grounded, he kept me sane, and he never liked to see me sad. So thank you. Thank you for everything you have given us."

Following the tributes, Florida Highway Patrol troopers and other law enforcement officers stood in formation as final honors took place. A three-volley salute echoed through the courtyard, and a helicopter passed overhead. An American flag was carefully folded and presented to his family.

The ceremony honored Trooper Diego's life and service, leaving a lasting memory for those who attended.