This photo shows late Capt. Troy Russell of West Kelowna Fire Rescue being awarded for 20 years of service with the department on Sept. 15, 2018.
Image Credit: FACEBOOK/West Kelowna Fire Rescue
September 26, 2018 - 2:20 PM
WEST KELOWNA - Flags are at half mast across the City of West Kelowna today, honouring fallen firefighter Capt. Troy Russell.
Russell had served as a firefighter with the department for 20 years, and was awarded for his service earlier this month while in hospice. Russell battled occupational brain cancer for the past year, according to a Facebook post by West Kelowna Fire Rescue.
Kirsten Jones, communications supervisor for the City of West Kelowna, says Russell passed away yesterday, Sept. 25, and his cancer was attributed to his work as a firefighter.
"Right now the fire department is reeling," Jones says.
She adds that there will be a memorial service for Russell, and the City will keep the public posted with more details.
Russell's Facebook page shows he is a long-time West Kelowna resident and attended Mount Boucherie Secondary School.
West Kelowna Fire Rescue was not immediately available for a comment, but the department did post on its Facebook page that Russell is "an inspiration to all who knew him."
Capt. Troy Russell.
Image Credit: FACEBOOK/West Kelowna Fire Rescue
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