A memorial will be held this weekend for longtime Central Kitsap Fire and Rescue member and former Training Division Chief Paul Stewart.

“The fire service was Paul’s life, he dedicated 33 years to the district and went above and beyond in his duties,” said CKFR spokesperson Ileana LiMarzi. “Paul had a significant impact on volunteer and career firefighters alike over the years. Many of them have called Paul a mentor and a momentous influence in their lives. Paul’s sense of humor and smile were contagious. Above all else, Paul was a family man and a true friend to all.”

Stewart died following a heart attack at his office March 6. He began his career as a paramedic/firefighter with CKFR in February of 1980. He was eventually promoted to paramedic/lieutenant and then in July of 2000 he became a captain. Three years later Stewart was promoted as a Battalion Chief and soon thereafter was named Central Kitsap Fire and Rescue’s Division Chief of Training.

At the time of his passing, he was the volunteer program manager and grant manager for the district.

Stewart was a 1972 graduate of Central Kitsap High School. He’s survived by his wife and three children. He loved spending his time kayaking and with his family.

The memorial will get underway at 5 p.m. on Saturday, March 16, at the Crossroads Neighborhood Church, located at 7555 Old Military Road NE in Bremerton. There is parking available at the church. No fire apparatus is desired but uniforms are appreciated, with Class A preferred.

In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made to the Medic One Foundation in Paul’s name. Donations can be made with PayPal through Medic One’s page on www.ckfr.org or gifts can be made at Central Kitsap Fire and Rescue’s Administration Building, located at 5300 NW Newberry Hill Road, Silverdale.