09/06/2026
After 29 years of dedication to the Belview Fire Department, we had the difficult honor of gathering together one final time this week for Steve Panitzke.
Throughout the years Steve served our department as a firefighter, Assistant Chief, Chief and treasurer but the titles only tell a small part of his story. He was a friend, a mentor, a familiar face at the fire hall and in our small town, and someone who gave nearly three decades of his life to serving the community he called home.
As Steve’s final call echoed one last time, we were reminded that although his service has ended, his place within the Belview Fire Department never will.
The trucks will continue to roll. The tones will continue to drop. And when they do, a piece of Steve will always ride with us—in the lessons he taught, the memories he left behind, and the friendships built over 29 years of service.
Rest easy, brother.
We’ll take it from here. 🚒
Steve Panitzke
29 years of service to the Belview Fire Department. Forever one of our own.❤️
We would also like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the surrounding fire departments and emergency service agencies who joined us in honoring Steve and his years of service. Seeing all the trucks roll in and so many of our brothers and sisters standing alongside us meant more than words can say. In moments like these, we are reminded just how strong the fire service family truly is!
Please continue to keep Steve’s family in your thoughts and prayers in the days and weeks ahead. While our department lost a brother, they lost someone they loved far beyond the fire hall. ❤️
