LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Garry Key, Battalion Major and Acting Chief of the Zoneton Fire Protection District (FPD), passed away on Friday after a month-long fight with COVID-19. Key was the longest serving member of the Zoneton FPD.

Zoneton FPD announced his passing in a press release on Saturday. Key's passing comes just two months after the death of Chief Rob Orkies, who also battled COVID-19.

“Garry was highly respected by all who knew him and all of us are deeply saddened by his loss” said acting fire Chief Kevin Moulton.  “This is a difficult time for the entire fire department."

Key spent over 50 years serving others. He served over 29 years in the U.S. Army, joining the Zoneton FPD in 1984. Major Key also served 10 years with the Bullitt County Sheriff's Office.

Funeral arrangements are pending, the department said. Key is survived by his wife of 50 years, a son, a daughter, six grandchildren, and a brother and sister.