Tribute to a Fallen Hero: St. Paul Firefighter Timothy Bertz
Gov. Tim Walz has ordered flags to be flown at half-staff on Monday, the day of the funeral for Timothy Bertz, a man who recently achieved his dream of becoming a St. Paul firefighter. Bertz’s tragic passing has sent shockwaves throughout the community, and his bravery and selflessness are being remembered and honored.
Bertz, 52, graduated from the St. Paul Fire Department academy on Dec. 17, worked at the training facility on Dec. 19, and had a sudden and major medical event at home on Saturday, Dec. 20, according to the fire department. He passed away at the hospital on Monday, leaving behind a legacy of courage and dedication.
A Life of Service and Courage
Bertz’s family described him as “tough not only physically but mentally” with an “all-in attitude” in his obituary. He had a distinguished career in the Navy, where he initially aimed to become a firefighter but was sidetracked and went on to become a Navy Seal. His experience and expertise in the Navy prepared him for his future role as a firefighter, and he later became a paid-on-call firefighter at the Harris Fire Department in Chisago County, Minn., for three years.
He also served as a duty crew member with the Lino Lakes Fire Department, and his ultimate goal was to become a St. Paul firefighter. Bertz’s selflessness and courage in life were exemplified by his decision to donate his organs, allowing others to live on. As Gov. Walz noted in a proclamation, “Firefighter Bertz exemplified selflessness and courage in life, including choosing to donate his organs so that others may live, a final testament to his dedication to service.”
Remembering and Honoring Timothy Bertz
A public vigil is being held tonight at 6 p.m. at the Harris Fire Department, 43525 Gladstone Ave., followed by a time of gathering at 7 p.m. A memorial service will be held at noon Monday at Maranatha Church, 24799 Forest Blvd. in Forest Lake, with a gathering one hour prior to the service at the church. Private interment will be at Fort Snelling National Cemetery.
Bertz’s family has requested that, in lieu of flowers, memorials be made to the St. Paul Fire Foundation. As the community comes together to mourn the loss of this brave firefighter, his legacy will live on through the lives he touched and the people he inspired. For more information, visit Here
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