Public memorial in Penticton on Wednesday for fallen wildland firefighter

The public memorial service for fallen wildland firefighter Zak Muise will take place in Penticton on Wednesday afternoon.

The 25-year-old, who had moved from Ontario to Kelowna to fight fires, died on July 28 in northern B.C., when his ATV rolled over a steep drop on a gravel road.

Muise worked for a private company, Bigcat Wildfire in Summerland, and was deployed 150 kilometres north of Fort St. John, helping battle the Donnie Creek wildfire.

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The memorial will run along South Beach Drive beside Skaha Lake. The service will commence at the gazebo in Skaha Lake Park.

A celebration of life is also planned for Aug. 20 in Simcoe, Ont.

“Zak gave his life fighting the Donnie Creek fire in the Fort St. John area,” reads a public announcement for Wednesday’s memorial. “Please join us in remembering and honouring his life.

“Zak will be deeply missed and never forgotten.”

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Muise’s family says those wishing to donate in Zak’s memory can contribute to the Canadian Critical Incident Stress Foundation, which supports first responders, veterans and their families.