Erik J. Hirner, 38, of Catasauqua, died May 27, 2018 at Reading Hospital & Medical Center as a result of a motor vehicle accident. He was the husband of Katrina E. (Segreaves) Hirner for six years.

Born in Allentown, he was the son of James B. Hirner and Susan J. (Walp) Hirner of Catasauqua.

He was a 1998 graduate of Catasauqua High School, graduating with honors. He also graduated with honors from Muhlenberg College with a bachelor’s degree in biology.

He was employed at the Allentown Health Bureau as a communicable disease investigator.

After that, he was hired by the Reading Fire Department. After completing training academy, he was a jumper with several platoons. In September 2012, he joined C-Platoon as a tiller man on Ladder 1. He was instrumental and valuable to the chief and the department in the design of the new ladder truck, to which he was assigned.

He was a life member and volunteer fireman of the Charotin Hose Company No. 1 of North Catasauqua. Throughout his 20 plus years of service he held various positions, including recording secretary, vice president, lieutenant, captain, deputy chief and chief. His final position was as assistant chief.

He led committees to design the department’s quick attack truck, ladder truck and UTV. He was instrumental within the department and helped advance training, equipment and procedures.

In addition to his wife and parents, he is survived by a stepdaughter, Olivia Burnett of Catasauqua; a brother, Joshua J. of North Catasauqua; a sister, Jamie S. and her husband Brian Nattress of North Catasauqua; a nephew, Rowan; and a new niece, Ryann Erika Grace.

There will be a calling time 6-8 p.m. June 3 and 9 a.m.-11 a.m. June 4. A memorial service will be 11 a.m. June 4 at the funeral home, 2119 Washington Ave., Northampton, 18067.

Contributions may be made in his memory to the Battle of the Badges/Reading Fire Department, Berks County Community Foundation, 237 Court St., Reading, 19601 or c/o the funeral home.

Arrangements were made by Schisler Funeral Home.