Flags at half-mast to honour Waterford firefighter who died in B.C. wildfire

Flags at all 11 Norfolk County fire stations have been lowered to half-mast in honour of a 25-year-old Waterford man who died while battling a wildfire in British Columbia last month.

Zachery Muise, known as Zak to loved ones, lost his life fighting the Donnie Creek wildfire on July 28.

Police have said Muise was working in a remote area 150 kilometres north of Fort St. John when the heavy duty ATV he was driving rolled over a steep drop on a gravel road.

Officials in B.C. reported that Muise was a contracted firefighter working for the wildfire service through a private company in the province.

His family issued a statement saying they are “devastated by the sudden and tragic loss” of Muise who “loved life and loved what he was doing.”

They say he’ll be missed by his parents, brothers and sisters, and large extended family.

Several politicians have expressed their condolences following the tragedy.

“We are all saddened by the loss of a fellow brother,” said Norfolk County Fire Chief Gord Stilwell.

“Our hearts go out to all of Zak’s family and friends. This is a tragic loss for our community.”

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Norfolk County Mayor Amy Martin echoed the fire chief, saying the community is thinking of and praying for Muise’s family and friends during this difficult time.

“All of us in Norfolk County are deeply saddened by the passing of Zachery,” Martin said.

“We respect his bravery and willingness to protect others.”

A celebration of life will take place at The Greens at Renton Golf Course at 2 p.m. on Sunday.

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Stilwell, several county staff and members of the Norfolk County Fire Department are expected to attend.

Those wishing to pay tribute to Muise can do so via an online tribute wall.

A fundraiser was also started in his name, with his family suggesting donations to the Canadian Critical Incident Stress Foundation.