Former Gulfport Fire Chief Mike Beyerstedt dies

Former Fire Chief Michael Beyerstedt has died.

He was 61.

The Gulfport Fire Department announced his passing in a post that went up just after noon Wednesday, calling the former chief a dedicated servant of the city “who made a profound impact on the men and women of the Gulfport Fire Department during his time as fire chief.

“He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.”

Gulfport Mayor Billy Hewes also posted to his social media page that Beyerstedt was “gone, too soon.

“Former Fire Chief, Mike Beyerstedt, passed away unexpectedly, but leaves a wonderful legacy of exemplary service, having made a profound difference in the lives of our citizens. Please keep Kelly and their family in your thoughts and prayers.

Beyerstedt served as the city’s fire chief for more than 12 years from 2011 to 2023. He joined the Gulfport department after a stint in Jackson, Michigan.

Beyerstedt was the general manager of Windance Golf Club at the time of his death. He also served as an instructor at Columbia Southern University in Orange Beach, Alabama, as a professor of fire administration.