Dallas Firefighters and the Museum Board mourn the loss of David Leos.
Leos was the first active-duty firefighter in Dallas to die from the virus.
Dallas Fire-Rescue shared the following statement on Leos’ passing on Thursday afternoon:
Dallas Fire-Rescue is saddened to announce the untimely passing of Driver Engineer, David Leos. David joined the department on August 12, 1981, and served the citizens of Dallas for 40 years before passing after a long and courageous battle with COVID-19. David leaves behind a wife and eight children along with countless other family members and friends who will miss him dearly. This is a tragic loss for our department; especially for his brother, Lieutenant Marty Leos, and son, Lieutenant David Leos, Jr., who have followed admirably in their brother/father’s footsteps. We ask that you keep David’s family, and the department, in your thoughts and prayers and we lean on one another for support during this most challenging time.
"David was a great firefighter and paramedic. He treated everyone with respect and compassion. He will be deeply missed." Trixie Lorhke, Museum Board President and Retired Dallas Fire-Rescue Battalion Chief
"Every time I saw David, he brightened the room with his awesome smile-and brightened my day. Such an honor to work with this amazing human." Debbie Mullins, Museum Board Director and Retired Dallas Fire-Rescue Section Chief.
“David was one of the nicest people on the job. He always had a smile for everyone and a truly polite and sincere attitude that was caring of others. Not only was it a pleasure to have worked with him, but an honor to have known him. Godspeed Super Dave!” Daniel DeYear, Dallas Fire-Rescue Deputy Chief, Training Bureau and Museum Board Director
"Dave was one of those people you knew would be there when you needed him. He didn’t spend a lot of time talking about the good works he did. He just did them without fanfare or acknowledgement. He enjoyed every day that he was given on this Earth and was completely confident that one day he would be residing in Heaven. He wore his faith with pride. He was a good firefighter and a great friend." Debra Carlin, Retired Dallas Fire-Rescue Assistant Fire Chief and Museum Board Director