Even in his last days, longtime fire chief and former City Councilman Harry Diezel continued to put the public's interests ahead of his own.
As he battled lung disease, Diezel made one thing clear to family and friends: No funeral.
"He didn't want to tie up traffic," longtime friend Bill Bailey explained.
Diezel died Wednesday, the day before his 79th birthday.
In keeping with his wishes, no traditional service will be held. Instead, the Fire Department will host an open house the afternoon of Jan. 18 at its training center, which is named in Diezel's honor. A fire boat will take his ashes to be dispersed in the ocean at a later date.
"He never quit his public service," Bailey said. "He loved being a public servant."