Michael Szymanski, 46, was surrounded by his family when he passed away.
Fire crews from across the country have paid tribute to a Hampshire firefighter who dedicated 18 years to keeping the people of the county safe.
Michael Szymanski from Totton died of a heart attack at home on February 25 surrounded by family.
His funeral will be at 10.45am on Tuesday, March 24 at Test Valley Crematorium with only immediate family and selected friends invited.
Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service hopes to honour Mike appropriately at the wake which is likely to take place in July. Confirmation of this will follow in due course.
The 46-year-old dad of two served at Winchester and Redbridge and was well known for his charity work which included siting in a bath of compost for Children In Need.
He was also a former volunteer and chairman of New Forest North Scouts.
His wife Lisa said:
“My family are lost for words, Mike was the lynchpin to our family unit. Our children, Rose and Adam, are a credit to him, showing true strength of character at this difficult time.
“Mike inspired everyone around him, he continually challenged himself physically, whether it was completing the Marathon des Sables, cycling the South Downs Way from Winchester to Brighton and back again or simply learning to stand on his head.
“Mike’s death has left family, friends and colleagues devastated.“
Chief Fire Officer Neil Odin said:
“Mike’s death comes as a great shock to the Service.
“I know he will be sorely missed by his colleagues especially at Redbridge and Winchester fire stations.
“Our thoughts are with his family, friends and colleagues at this sad time.
“One of our senior officers is in contact with Mike’s family and we will provide them with all the support they need.