Erik J. Hirner

Erik J. Hirner, 38 of Catasauqua, PA passed away on Sunday May 27, 2018 at Reading Hospital & Medical Center, Reading, PA as a result of a motor vehicle accident.  Born April 18, 1980 in Allentown, PA he was the son of James B. Hirner and Susan J. (Walp) Hirner of Catasauqua, PA.  He was the husband of Katrina E. (Segreaves) Hirner, with whom he shared 6 years of marriage this May 11 ^th , 2018.  Erik was a 1998 graduate of Catasauqua High School, graduating with honors.  He also graduated, with honors, with a Bachelor's Degree in Biology in 2002, from Muhlenberg College.

Erik was hired June 2007 by the Reading Fire Department. After completing his 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.  Erik was a Life Member and Volunteer Fireman of the Charotin Hose Company #1 of North Catasauqua.  Throughout his over 20 years of service he held various positions, including Recording Secretary, Vice President, Lieutenant, Captain, Deputy Chief, Chief and his last position, Assistant Chief.  Erik led committees to design the departments quick attack truck, ladder truck and UTV.  He was instrumental in every aspect of leadership within the department and helped advance the training, equipment and procedures.  Erik was employed at the Allentown Health Bureau, as a Communicable Disease Investigator prior to City of Reading Fire Department.

Erik was an avid Ice Hockey player, who participated in the Reading Fire Dept. Team, and the Battle of the Badges, and also at Muhlenberg College. In his earlier years he played street hockey at Candy Cane Park in the CHL. Erik also enjoyed photography and riding his motorcycle.

Surviving along with his wife and parents are; Step Daughter Olivia Burnett of Catasauqua, PA, brother Joshua J. Hirner of N. Catasauqua, PA, sister Jamie S., wife of Brian Nattress of N. Catasauqua, PA, and a nephew Rowan, along with his new niece Ryann Erika Grace born May 31, 2018.

A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 AM on Monday June 4, 2018 at Schisler Funeral Home, 2119 Washington Ave, Northampton, 18067, with the Reverend Scott J. Paradise officiating.  The family will receive friends from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Sunday June 3 ^rd , 2018 and Monday June 4, 2018 from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM prior to the services at the funeral home.  Interment will be private and at the convenience of the family.

Contributions may be made,  in memory of Erik Hirner, to the Battle of the Badges/Reading Fire Dept., Berks County Community Foundation, 237 Court Street, Reading PA 19601 or c/o  the funeral home.