Longtime firefighter dies from cancer

BALTIMORE - Baltimore City Fire Department is mourning the loss of one of their own. Firefighter Vanguard William Minter, 51, passed away on Monday, after a lengthy battle with colon cancer.

Firefighter Minter was a 28 year veteran of the fire department, and started his career with Engine Company #35 in the Curtis Bay community.

Occasionally, Minter would serve as acting Lieutenant and Pump Operator. In 1999, Minter took the challenge and passed the exam to become the new Pump Operator. Minter was assigned to a total of 6 different companies throughout his career.

Firefighter Minter was also trained as a Fire Communications Dispatcher where he spent his later years working.

Minter and his wife, Shelley have one son, Vanguard Minter, Jr. and will truly be missed by many.

For his longtime service as an active member in the fire department, he will receive full honors, and flags will be flown half-staff until the day of his funeral.

Viewing services will be held on Saturday, February 11, 2012 from 3:00 – 6:00 p.m. and Sunday, February 12, 2012 from 12:00 noon – 8:00 p.m. at Vaughn Green Funeral Home located at 8728 Liberty Road, Randallstown.

The funeral service will be held on Monday, February 13, 2012 - Family 10:00 -11:00 a.m. – Service 11:00 a.m. at United Bethel AME Church located at 8615 Church Lane, Randallstown.

An interment will be held on Monday, February 13, 2012 at 12:30 pm at Kings Memorial Park located at 8710 Dogwood Road, Baltimore, Maryland 21244.