PERRYSBURG, Ohio — Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine has ordered flags to be lowered in honor of a Perrysburg Township firefighter and paramedic who died of occupational cancer.
Troy Bernhard was a 28-year veteran of the department and leaves behind a wife and two children, according to a social media post from the department.
DeWine ordered flags of the United States and state of Ohio to be lowered upon all public buildings and grounds throughout Wood County, the Ohio Statehouse, the Vern Riffe Center and the Rhodes State Office Tower. The flags are to remain lowered until sunset on the day of Bernhard's funeral on Saturday, Oct. 5.
DeWine's office said all other public buildings and grounds throughout the state may fly the flags of the U.S. and state of Ohio at half-staff at their discretion for the same time period.
"Troy was a friend to many of us inside and out of the firehouse. He was always good to crack a quick joke, and make you laugh! He was great with crafts and made several projects that are on display throughout the fire station," the department said.
Perrysburg Township fire said there will be a visitation on Friday from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Monclova Road Baptist Church. A bell ringing ceremony will take place at 7 p.m. on Friday at the church as well. The Last Alarm funeral service is set for Saturday at 10:30 a.m.
Occupational cancer is the leading cause of death among firefighters, who have a 9% greater risk of being diagnosed with cancer than the general public, according to the International Association of Fire Fighters.
