Erie Firefighters Mourn Loss of Fellow Firefighter to Occupational Cancer

Firefighter Michael Smith dies after battle with occupational cancer

The Erie Fire Department and its union IAFF Local 293 are mourning one of their own.

Engine 11 firefighter Michael Smith passed away this weekend at just 47-years-old, after fighting a courageous battle with occupational cancer. 

According to Erie Fire officials, there are certain cancers that strike firefighters in particular because of what they're exposed to on the job.

Erie firefighters posted photos and a tribute on facebook Sunday after learning of the loss of their fellow firefighter.

There was an immediate outpouring of support and hundreds of comments from people who knew and respected Smith.

Smith started with the Erie Fire Department in August of 2005, and he had been working to keep our community safe for more than 17 years.

According to his colleagues, Mike was battling cancer for the last year.

They say he was a hard working firefighter who always went above and beyond, never backed down, and he will be missed.

Assistant Chief Len Trott told Erie News Now, "Mike was a great guy, he was well liked and he gave 100 percent to anything that was asked of him or any situation that was put in front of him.  He was a great guy and a great firefighter and he should have had many more years with us."

City firefighters will be wearing a black band across their badges for 30-days and flags and Erie firehouses will fly at half staff as well for the next month.

Firefighter Mike Smith leaves behind his wife Ella and their dog Finn. 

Funeral arrangements are not finalized.