A fire station in eastern North Carolina is mourning the loss of one of their own this week after the death of a volunteer firefighter. Firefighters say Linster Koonce -- known to many as Pete -- volunteered at Station 35 in Jasper and gave his all in everything he did. Hoffman said Koonce joined the fire station about two years ago but said the community might know him best as the Christmas elf. He said Koonce gave the community much more than just gifts to open on Christmas Day, but he gave them joy to last for long after the presents were open. Koonce offered a helping hand anytime he could. And as the red-striped flag outside of Station 35 blows in the wind, Hoffman said the world needs more people like Pete Koonce. Even though Koonce joined the station just two years ago, firefighters said he left an impact that will last for many years to come.