Submitted by his Wife
Don joined the Buffalo Fire Department in 1986 and worked several years with the Heavy Rescue Company. He was critically injured in 1995 while fighting a structure fire and died in 2006 from complications of those injuries.
As a well-respected member of the department‚ Don was the recipient of the 1991 Marine Corps League Medal‚ 1991 Erie County American Legion Public Safety Award‚ and 1994 Buffalo Fire Commissioner’s Award‚ and was named Fire Fighter of the Year in 1996 for his dedication to the fire service.
Known for his love of the outdoors‚ he enjoyed hunting‚ fishing‚ and camping with his wife and four sons. Don was a man of courage and determination and was an inspiration to his fellow fire fighters. He is missed and will always be remembered as a loving husband‚ devoted father‚ and trusted friend.
He is survived by his wife‚ Linda; and his sons‚ Donald‚ Thomas‚ Patrick‚ and Nicholas.
This so compelling to read. I have read the article in the 2007 December issue of Readers Digest. Being 14 and wanting to be a firefighter, this has inspired me to pursue my dream for this career. Thank you for passing on Donny’s story. Those who never met him could only imagine what a strong person he must have been. Thank you again
– MorganI learned about Herbert from a 60 minutes interview recommended to me on youtube. I watched it out of boredom and was left cracked and on the verge of tears from the story. The best people are always taken from us too soon, but at least he was able to meet with his family one last time in his miracle awakening before being taken from this world. Suddenly, this total stranger that I had just learned about from a youtube video felt like my own family member, and I couldn’t bear to watch him crying and hugging his former firefighter buddies after learning he was in a coma for 10 years. God rest his soul, and thank you Don for your service and sacrifice.
– Gabe N.You were a hero, as well as your family. I hope that they are well and cherish the memory of you. True family.
– FilipIt’s August 6, 2024. I just listened to the story of a beautiful family who didn’t give up on the husband and father who loved and cared for them. I believe that a part of Don’s brain was being rewired every time he wen’t on a family trip and was “just sitting there.” I’m so glad Don got up in his right mind. This experience spoke to me about faith, healing and purpose. Learning about Don today was such a blessing. What I tiik away from this is that it’s never too late to heal. That applies to everything. So many people would have given up after a decade. I have my own story of healing breakthrough after a decade and it’s a powerful testimony of faith and how good God is. I will not forget this – ever. Blessings to this family. Don changed my Life, even after his passing. I’m grateful.
– Térésa Scotland