Brian O’Flaherty, a decorated member of the FDNY, died from illness related to his response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center. Following in his father’s footsteps, he joined the FDNY. Brian began his career in Brooklyn at Ladder 105 where his father served, and later served as a lieutenant at Ladder 102. He moved to Manhattan, where he spent 12 years as the captain of Rescue 1. Later, he worked as a captain’s representative for the Uniformed Fire Officers Association and as a battalion chief in the 9th Battalion in Midtown. He finished his 38-year career as Chief of Safety.

Brian was born and raised in Queens. After graduating from Martin Van Buren High School, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served on submarines. After his military service, he earned an associate degree and joined the fire department.

Brian met Karin at the beach in South Hampton. Their shared love of the sun and the water inspired them to move to Long Island to raise their family. Longtime residents of Rockville Centre, they moved to Long Beach to enjoy retirement. Brian participated in many sports during his lifetime and was a great skier, an avid sailor, FDNY hockey player, and a dedicated golfer with the FDNY Highrise Golf Club. He also traveled widely, including many motorcycle tours, golfing trips, and visits to see friends and loved ones. He especially loved spending time with the grandkids on their visits to “Pop’s Beach.”

He is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Karin; his four children, Kristin (Robert), Kerry (Joe), Tara, and Tim; and his four grandchildren, Tessa, Theo, Emmy, and Natalie.

Brian’s love for his family and friends was only matched by his love for his FDNY members and his service to the people of The City of New York. He loved every single day that he went to work. His favorite quote that he would end his meetings at the firehouse with was, “You have to go out and just live for today.”

Without his love, words of encouragement and advice, his family and fellow firefighters would not be who they are today. We are all eternally grateful for his extraordinary life as an example of how we should live ours.