GOODYEAR, AZ — An 11-year veteran of the Goodyear Department has passed away after a years-long battle with occupational cancer.
Goodyear Fire Department Engineer Austin Peck passed away Saturday night, according to the United Goodyear Fire Fighters Association.
Peck battled a rare form of occupational cancer, adenocarcinoma. He was diagnosed with the disease in 2015.
The 35-year-old engineer joined Goodyear Fire Department in January 2008. Goodyear Fire Department said he "continued to fight his cancer with the highest level of bravery and fortitude" after his retirement in July 2019.
“No matter what the situation, Austin always treated everyone with compassion,” said Goodyear Fire Chief Paul Luizzi in a statement. “His brothers and sisters are remembering not just how skilled he was at his job, but also the humor he brought to the work we do each day, especially on the toughest of days.”
Goodyear Fire said, "Austin was known for being willing to do anything for his brothers and sisters at any time. He and his family will forever be in our hearts and minds."
Peck is survived by his wife, Erin, and two daughters, Marley and Harper.
The United Goodyear Fire Fighters Association said memorial services will be announced as they become available.
Governor Doug Ducey ordered flags to be lowered to half-staff Tuesday, September 3, in Peck's honor.
"Our hearts go out to the family of Goodyear firefighter Austin Peck," said Governor Ducey, in a statement Monday. "Firefighter Peck served his community honorably and Arizona will remember his selfless service. In honor of Firefighter Peck, I've ordered flags at all state buildings be lowered to half-staff tomorrow."
Sadness doesn’t begin to describe the feeling when you lose a fellow firefighter to occupational cancer. Engineer Austin Peck of the Goodyear Fire Department passes away yesterday after a long and hard battle against this devastating disease. We will keep fighting the good fight. pic.twitter.com/eXrSR00Wzf
— Glendale Fire Dept. (@GlendaleFire) September 1, 2019
The letter says the AG’s office was “made aware of several troubling disputes…involving healthcare benefits for firefighters who suffer from various conditions, including certain forms of cancer.”
There are multiple Arizona firefighters who are fighting local governments for benefits they believe they earned and deserve.
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