Longtime firefighter Sean Griewahn died in Swanton on Wednesday following a battle with pancreatic cancer. The loss ends more than 30 years of emergency service to the local village community. He was 54 years old.
His death is considered a line-of-duty death. Fire Chief Cuyler Kepling confirmed that status. Griewahn served with the Swanton Fire & Rescue Division.
“Today, our department mourns the loss of one of our own. Lieutenant Griewahn was more than a member of our team; he was a brother in the fire service.”
Kepling said his department remains grateful for his dedicated service. Funeral arrangements for Griewahn will be released at a later time, the division said.
His daughter, Susie Schmidt, said he received a stage 4 pancreatic cancer diagnosis this summer. The cancer had metastasized to his liver and pelvis, Schmidt said. She noted that he had six children and 14 grandchildren.
“It’s world-shattering. It’s heart-wrenching. It’s difficult, and it’s still difficult every day.”
Co-workers called him Papa Sean, Schmidt said. Schmidt hoped sharing his story would raise awareness about pancreatic cancer symptoms. The American Cancer Society says more than 67,000 Americans will receive this diagnosis this year.
A community benefit event was planned in November for Griewahn. Organizers have not announced whether the fundraiser will still happen.
A line-of-duty death designation formally recognizes emergency responders who die from job-related illnesses or injuries. Fire agencies typically assist surviving family members with service protocols and benefits following such announcements in Swanton.
The Swanton Fire & Rescue Division will announce final memorial details once plans are set.
