For Concord resident Michael Braz, firefighting was more than a job. It was a way of life. He started his career with the Contra Costa Fire Department in 1971 and worked his way up to Supervising Inspector, the position he held when he retired in 2003. He was well-loved by family, friends and his firefighter brothers and sisters and was best-known for his big heart, infectious smile, generosity of spirit and sense of humor. He died of job-related cancer. He is survived by his wife, two daughters and grandchildren.