Today I Lost a Brother

I want to recognize Frank Florence as an individual that believed in his heart.  Frank was dedicated to the fire service and loved his career.  As a young man, Frank joined the Salt Lake City Fire Department with a single purpose, which was to serve.  Frank loved his career and worked through each of the various ranks until he ultimately became Chief of Department.  After serving a distinguished career in the public, he came to work at NFPA where he had a desire to continue giving and making the world a safer place.  In his new role as NFPA Staff Liaison he would ask me a lot of questions.  Over the years we formed a bond and had a close friendship.  I considered Frank my Brother as I considered fire fighters when I was on the fire department.  I knew Frank didn’t always let people into his personal life so I felt privileged to be considered his friend.  When Frank was asked a question, he never dodged the issue.  He gave you his opinion point blank, whether it was good or bad.  You never had to guess what he thought.  The fire service has lost a champion for their cause.  Frank dedicated his life to improve the quality of life for others.  Frank never turned his back no matter how bad things seemed, he was always there.  Now that he has passed I will miss his leadership, dedication, work ethic and most of all, his friendship.

Larry Stewart

Comments

[Michele Steinberg]

Thanks for this wonderful tribute, Larry.

[Medical Advice]

thankful for all sharing memory story..im so sad happen your lost brother.