Submitted by his Wife

Theodore J. Abriel
Albany Fire Department – New York
Classification:Career
‘Rank: Acting Lieutenant
Date of Death: February 19‚ 2007
Age: 44

Theodore J. Abriel‚ 44‚ died in the line of duty on Monday‚ February 19‚ 2007. Ted spent twenty years with the Albany Fire Department and last served as acting Lieutenant of the Rescue Squad. He was a dedicated public servant and had tremendous passion for being a fire fighter and member of the Albany Fire Department Family. Ted‚ like his father‚ Battalion Chief Warren Abriel‚ comes from several generations of Albany fire fighters spanning over two hundred years‚ as do his brothers Deputy Chief Warren Abriel Jr. and retired Captain Henry Abriel.

More than just a firefighter‚ Ted had a passion for his family and friends. He is survived by his wife‚ Linda and four children‚ Christopher‚ Matthew‚ Theodore Jr. and his beloved daughter Erin. He spent countless weekends coaching baseball and watching his three boys play in football games. He was an avid NY Giants football fan‚ known to travel to as many games as he could. He was known as the ‘party’ of his neighborhood‚ always including everyone for weekend barbeques. Hundreds came at Christmas time to view his Holiday light display. Ted will be forever in our hearts and prayers. His memory will never be forgotten. We will always remember to follow the rainbow; he will be waiting on the other side.

Submitted by a Co-Worker and Friend

Ted had just completed 20 years with the fire department. He was a member of the city’s Rescue Squad and the leader of the department’s Honor Guard.

Ted was operating at a high-rise apartment building when he was stricken. He had completed‚ as he always did‚ his assignment of climbing 6 stories and searching the fire apartment with his partner.

He is survived by his wife and children‚ his older brother‚ Deputy Chief Warren Abriel Jr.‚ Captain Henry Abriel and numerous other loving family and friends. He is predeceased by his father‚ Deputy Chief Warren Abriel Sr.

Ted led fund raising efforts for widows and survivors of fallen FDNY brothers after 911. He raised funds for a slain Albany Police Lieutenant.

I am told Ted always aspired to be an Albany Fire Fighter and was often seen carrying the Fire Chief’s Handbook in high school.

His death is a great loss to me‚ the Fire Department and the City of Albany.