Funeral arrangements announced for retired Cape Girardeau deputy fire chief Greg Hecht

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo., (KBSI) — The Cape Girardeau Fire Department is mourning the loss of retired Deputy Chief Greg Hecht, who died this week.

Hecht served with the department from January 2021 through April 2026 as battalion chief/fire marshal and later as deputy chief.

In a statement, the department remembered Hecht for his humility, optimism and dedication to the fire service. Officials said he was committed to lifelong learning and continued his professional education through the National Fire Academy. They added that he believed in leading by example and left a lasting impact on those who served alongside him.

Visitation will be held from 4 to 7:30 p.m. Friday, July 17, at Cape Bible Chapel, 2911 Kage Road in Cape Girardeau. A uniformed firefighter walk-through is scheduled for 7:20 p.m.

A memorial service will begin at 11 a.m. Saturday, July 18, at Cape Bible Chapel. Doors will open at 10 a.m., and firefighter honors will be conducted following the clergy portion of the service.

A procession of emergency vehicles will follow the memorial service. Organizers said the procession will conclude before reaching the cemetery because of limited access and space. Graveside services will be limited to immediate family members and invited guests.

The department asked the community to keep Hecht’s family, friends and fellow firefighters in their thoughts during this time.