Photo: CBS 12
A South Florida fire captain has lost his battle with cancer.
The wife of 44-year old Palm Beach Gardens Fire Captain Brian Wolnewitz took to Facebook on Tuesday to announce the death of her husband.
Julie Wolnewitz wrote that he had battled stage 4 lung cancer for two and a half years and defied all odds and when he was diagnosed in 2020, Wolnewitz raised awareness and funds for those also suffering.
The captain was with the agency for over 20 years. Palm Beach Gardens Fire Rescue and neighboring fire departments are offering their condolences and support to his family.
In addition to his wife, Brian Wolnewitz leaves behind four children.
Here's the text of Julie Wolnewitz's Facebook post:
It is with incredible sadness that I share with the world that my incredible husband, Brian passed away this morning. He was admitted to hospice care yesterday morning at Palm Beach Gardens Medical Center and was surrounded by family all day. Christy and I were by his side when he passed. I know that arrangements are already in place for Brian and I will be sure to share to those details once I get them.
Captain Brian Wolnewitz was a true hero and first responder for Palm Beach Gardens Fire Rescue for over 20 years. He has defied all odds over the past 2 1/2 years since he was first diagnosed with stage IV lung cancer and given 6 months to live. His goal when he was diagnosed was to raise awareness and funds for those who will be in his same situation after he is gone. He did just that and then some. He is truly the most selfless man I have ever known.
Please, please keep our family in your thoughts and prayers during these incredibly difficult times. I will share more information as it becomes available.