Meet Tyler Funk: Champaign's Dynamic New Fire Chief Igniting Change

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CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) — A seasoned veteran with over 25 years in the department has been named Champaign’s new Fire Chief.

On Wednesday, City Manager Joan Walls revealed that Tyler Funk has been appointed as Champaign’s next Fire Chief, taking the helm on November 19. Funk has been serving as the Interim Fire Chief since July 2025 and has a rich history with the Champaign Fire Department, having dedicated 26 years to the service. Prior to his interim role, he retired in 2023 as Deputy Fire Chief.

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“Chief Funk embodies the spirit of public service and will be pivotal to our Fire Department’s continued evolution,” Walls stated. “He is a proven leader, highly respected across the state, and the perfect choice to guide both our current team and the future leaders of our department. I am thrilled to welcome Chief Funk back in this vital capacity.”

Before his tenure with the Champaign Fire Department, Funk served as a firefighter for the Department of Defense with the U.S. Army at Fort Bragg, NC from 1992 to 1996. He began his journey with the Champaign Fire Department in 1997, gradually advancing through the ranks.

“I am grateful and honored by the City Manager’s confidence and trust she places in me to lead our city’s amazing Fire Department,” Funk said. “The level of talent and professionalism within the Champaign Fire Department is truly inspiring. I will proudly support our distinguished firefighters and amazing staff, and together we will continue to build upon the department’s proud tradition of excellence, service, and safety for Champaign’s residents.”