Active – nonLODD

It is with deep sadness that I share the unexpected passing of Fire Captain Anthony “Tony” Cuzzupe on April 17, 2026.

Tony began his service with our department as a Reserve Firefighter on June 17, 2002, where he earned his Firefighter and EMT certifications. He was appointed to the Paid-On-Call Division on July 1, 2003, and hired as a full-time firefighter on September 13, 2005. Tony was promoted to Fire Captain on October 27, 2016.

I had the privilege of working alongside Tony for several years when I was a Fire Captain. In the fire service, people often talk about brotherhood, but it is difficult to fully understand unless you have lived it. It goes beyond trust on the fireground. It is built over countless 24-hour shifts, shared challenges, and a level of connection that stays with you for life.

Tony was not only a trusted colleague, but a close friend. He was one of the most competent and compassionate firefighter/EMTs I have had the honor to work with.

Throughout his career, Tony made a lasting impact on our department, the fire service, and the thousands of people he served in our community. His presence in the firehouse and on the job will be deeply missed.

Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with Tony’s family, friends, coworkers, and all who knew him. — Fire Chief Daniel O’Brien

Funeral and Visitation Information
Fire Captain Anthony “Tony” Guy Cuzzupe
MN TYPE II: Active Non-LODD
Visitation
Date: Wednesday, April 29, 2026; 16:00 – 20:00
Location: Washburn-McReavy Coon Rapids Chapel, 1827 Coon Rapids Blvd NW, Coon Rapids, MN 55433
Uniform: Class A or B Requested
Mourning Bands: Columbia Heights Fire Department Personnel Only

Funeral
Date: Thursday, April 30, 2026 13:00 (Visitation 11:00 – 13:00)
Location: Washburn-McReavy Coon Rapids Chapel, 1827 Coon Rapids Blvd NW, Coon Rapids, MN 55433
Uniform: Class A or B Requested
Mourning Bands: Columbia Heights Fire Department Personnel Only

Funeral Luncheon
Columbia Heights Fire Department, 825 41st Ave NE, Columbia Heights MN 55421

All Minnesota Firefighters are invited to support Captain Cuzzupe’s family at the visitation or celebration of his life.

Our members strongly associate Tony with the color orange. If you plan to send flowers, we would appreciate including an element of orange in the arrangement.

Memorial/donation information will be posted online.

Firefighter honor will be provided by the Columbia Heights Fire Department.