GREEN BAY, Wis. (WFRV) – The Green Bay Metro Fire Department, along with the surrounding community, gathered at Celebration Church to pay their respects to Lieutenant Tyler Kreiter, a dedicated public servant who lost his battle with cancer after 17 years of service. Kreiter, served the City of Green Bay, the Village of Allouez, and the Village of Bellevue. He's remembered not only for his unwavering commitment to the community but also for his strength in facing a long and grueling battle with cancer. Greater Fox Cities Habitat for Humanity dedicates new home to family in need Kreiter was promoted to lieutenant by the GBFD before they said their goodbyes. Kreiter had the opportunity to be promoted to lieutenant before he moved on but ultimately decided to pass on the chance, believing that stepping back was the best way to serve the department. “Up until his final days, he was showing up for work every day,” said Lieutenant Shauna Walesh, Public Information Officer for the Green Bay Metro Fire Department. Cancer has become the number one cause of death among active firefighters, claiming Tyler Kreiter’s life. According to reports, firefighters face a 14% higher risk of dying from cancer compared to the general public. Despite undergoing treatments, Kreiter remained dedicated to his duties, showing up to work even on his toughest days. Even in the face of cancer, Kreiter’s legacy will live on as an inspiration to his colleagues. “In the last months leading up to today, he was not working on a 24-hour staffed rig, but I really think it shows his character and his attitude and his strength just throughout his battle,” Walesh mentioned. “That treatment is hard, and for him to show up through all of this just really shows who he is as a person,” said Walesh. The service included a ceremonial bell ringing to signify the end of Kreiter’s duties and the completion of his final call. A firefighter's last alarm is a solemn tradition, marking the passing of a brother or sister in service. Surrounding fire departments maintained coverage of Green Bay fire stations to ensure that most members of Kreiter's station in Green Bay were able to attend the funeral service and pay their respects. “This process is really to show the outpouring [of] support not just for the department but for Tyler's family,” said Walesh. Bellin Health, Red Cross partner for blood drive amid critical holiday shortage The fire department pledges to remain by the Kreiter family's side. Following the funeral, a procession route was planned to allow the City of Green Bay to join in honoring Kreiter’s life and service.