Columbia Borough Fire Department regrets to announce the passing of Firefighter/Paramedic Anthony “Tony” Helsel. Tony joined the former Columbia No 1 Fire Department in the 90’s and was a very active member and served as a fire line officer and member of the Water Emergency Team. Tony went on to run with the former Susquehanna Fire and Rescue Co #4 in Columbia Borough as he continued his fire service career. Tony worked as a Paramedic at the former Susquehanna Valley EMS, then Northwest EMS and through mergers, Tony was working at Municipal Emergency Services Authority of Lancaster County (MESA) at the time of his passing. Tony had moved away from Columbia and was continuing his fire service career at Maytown-East Donegal Township Fire Department.

Tony was a dedicated public servant that enjoyed being around people and serving others. He was one that you could always count on to be there and was a friend to many. Tony saved countless lives over the years through his service as a Paramedic.

We are fortunate to have known Tony and grateful for the time he spent in Columbia Borough at the Fire Department and Ambulance serving our community and beyond.

The officer and members of Columbia Borough Fire Department express our prayers and condolences to Tony’s wife Myrna and the rest of Tony’s family and friends.

God speed brother, job well done and we will take the line from here!

Photos credit to Todd Stahl