NEENAH, Wis. (NBC 26) — Pete Fahrenkrug has worn many hats as a retired Oshkosh firefighter, Army veteran and husband.
His wife Susan says the list doesn't stop there.
"He's my hero," she said. "I can't imagine living without him."
Now, the father of six and grandfather of 11 is fighting another battle.
"Right after Christmas, he stopped over and let everyone know that he had pancreatic cancer," sister Kathy Hans said. "So that was rough."
"I just try and stay positive, and hope everything turns out good," Susan said.
So in an effort to cover medical expenses, Fahrenkrug's family is hosting a benefit at the Old 41 Saloon in Neenah on Saturday.
"It has like snowballed into something that I think is gonna be huge... huge," Hans said.
Started by his daughters, the event will have baskets, raffles, a 50-50, a silent auction and other prizes.
"Everybody has just pitched in hugely to make sure that this benefit is a huge success," Hans said.
While diagnosed with Stage 4 inoperable cancer, Fahrenkrug is still working for American Tissue, helping with organ donations.
His family says it's time to give back to someone who has always given.
"It's exciting," Hans said. "And it gives me a great feeling to be able to do this for Pete, because he's done so much for so many others."
As he starts chemotherapy, Fahrenkrug's loved ones are inspired to fight by his side.
"My kids and thinking positive... that's what's keeping me going," Susan said.
To donate to Pete's cause visit the 'Benefit for Pete Fahrenkrug' page.
