FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WOWO): A Fort Wayne firefighter has lost his battle with cancer.

Firefighter Nate Mills is being remembered for his “grace, dignity and courage.” Those are the words of Fort Wayne Fire Chief Eric Lahey. The department announced Mills' passing Sunday.

In late 2012 Mills was diagnosed with a re-occurrence of melanoma, a cancer that first appeared in 2000. His determination and positive spirit captured the attention of the community.

The 42-year-old Mills had served the city since 2006.  

Lahey is asking the public to keep his family and in their thoughts and prayers. Funeral arrangements are pending.