Allentown Fire Marshal Jeff Tomczak passed away after a 15-month battle with pancreatic cancer. Jeremy Warmkessel, a representative of the local firefighters union, stated that the Allentown Fire Department has experienced several tragedies due to occupational cancer. This marks the third case of occupational cancer leading to a death within the department in the last 10 years, according to Warmkessel. He believes that all three cases were likely due to exposure, both during firefighting and while at the firehouse.
Tomczak, who was in his mid-40s, is survived by his wife and two sons. In addition to his service in Allentown, he also worked as the fire marshal in Upper Gwynedd Township in Montgomery County and for the Montgomery County Department of Public Safety.
Warmkessel noted that Tomczak was always helping others, and it’s now their turn to do something for him. In honor of Tomczak’s thoughtful nature, a memorial has been planned, something he had arranged in advance.
Warmkessel believes that over the next week and two weeks, people will fully understand the impact Tomczak had on so many individuals in numerous ways. The memorial is scheduled to take place over two days, from August 2-3. The union will soon release details to the public about when and where people can show their support for Tomczak and his family.
