January 8, 2009 Former Hartford Mayor Peters laid to rest Play video

(NECN: Brian Burnell, Hartford, Conn.) - There was a large turnout in Connecticut today for the funeral of former Hartford Mayor Mike Peters. The one-time firefighter served the city from 1993 to 2001.

A Hartford police honor guard led the procession headed to St. Augustine Church for the final farewell for the man everyone knew as Mayor Mike. Mike Peters was Hartford's mayor for four terms after serving the city for 22 years as a firefighter. The Democrat was largely a figurehead in the city's then city manager form of government, but oh what a figure he was.

"He had a great love for people, community, city and he wanted to share his happiness for the city. He was the best promoter we ever had," says Nick Carbone, former deputy mayor.

Mayor Mike did not let party politics get in the way of his mission -- making sure Hartford got its fair share and a fair shake.

"His charm and personality were such that you couldn't say no so whether he was down charming Bill Clinton or John Rowland he had a way of just endearing himself to politicians on both sides of the aisle. You wanted to see him be successful. You wanted to work with him. There's a great old quote. Its amazing what one can accomplish if one is willing to share the credit," says former Governor John Rowland.

He had a reputation for just that -- working with anyone and everyone. Hundreds of people with whom he's worked came out for this farewell.

"He was inclusive and he enjoyed

the job. He gave...it was good for people to know that all politicians aren't sour. I was a good one but he was a real good one, too," says Carrie Saxon Perry, former Hartford mayor.

After leaving the mayor's office, he opened "Mayor Mike's" just a few blocks from City Hall. He died of complications from liver failure. He was 60-years-old. The last ride took him by his old firehouse -- Engine 15, Ladder 7.

Peters grew up in the South End of Hartford.