Peder C. McElroy served the citizens of Santa Cruz with honor and pride for 24 years. Prior to his career in the fire service, he served in the U.S. Navy. Peder began his long career in the fire service as a volunteer. Ever an example, he received Firefighter of the Year in 2000. He passed away from a job-related illness in May 2020. Peder is survived by his wife and four children.