Calgary remembers veteran firefighter who lost his life to occupational cancer

The name of a long-time Calgary firefighter who died from an occupational illness is the latest addition to a memorial for fallen firefighters in the city.

A march from the Mewata Armoury, down Stephen Avenue, and finishing at the Municipal Building Tuesday honoured Billy B. Stewart Tuesday morning. His name ws also added to the three-storey Walls of Memory/Lantern of Light monument at the Police Officers and Firefighters Tribute Plaza on Macleod Trail.

Stewart is among 77 Calgary firefighters lost in the line of duty, according to the city — nine during active firefighting and 63 due to illnesses related to firefighting.

“As we reflect on those Calgary firefighters whose days numbered far fewer than they deserved, we remember their stories,” said Calgary Fire Department Chief Steve Dongworth. “Each one left a legacy of bravery and love that we carry forward in our hearts. We stand shoulder to shoulder to remember not only how they died, but how they lived.”

According to the International Association of Firefighters, Stewart died on Nov. 10, 2023 at the age of 53 from brain cancer caused by his 22 years as a firefighter. He left behind a wife and son.

The Calgary Fire Department says it has made many changes to the culture around health and safety, and continues to modify its practices, which support making today’s firefighters safer from risk and illness.

“The safety measures we adhere to aren’t just guidelines — they are lifelines,” said Dongworth. “We must remain vigilant as new technologies, new construction, societal change and climate change all impact our ever-changing world and in turn present new risks to our firefighters.”