David A. Brier was born on September 27, 1962, and grew up in Plympton, Massachusetts. David was passionate about many things and seemed to excel at them all, as he was a perfectionist. That perfectionist’s attitude followed him into the fire service. Dave joined the Middleboro Fire Department in September of 1998 and started his 15-year career as a firefighter/EMIT-I. Shortly after joining, he attended the Mass Firefighting Academy classes and was trained and certified in as many areas of expertise as he could find. Dave was also a licensed plumber and worked at 1-800 Board Up in his down time from the fire department. He was always very dedicated to anything he chose to do.
For David, if it had to be done, then it needed to be done the right way. He knew that knowledge was the power to succeed, and he had a thirst for it. Dave was a hands-on firefighter and took his job very seriously. He knew that, more than being just a career, he had a duty to perform to the best of his abilities. He was the kind of firefighter that you felt comfortable working beside and was a true “brother” to his fellow firefighters. Dave had an abundance of energy and was affectionately referred to by some as “Ricochet Rabbit.”
Dave was a loving husband and found his soul mate in his wife, Wendy. Perhaps his first and greatest devotion was to her, as they shared every possible moment together exploring the world’s great treasures. He enjoyed spending as much time with his grandchildren as he could. He was clearly the type of friend a friend would like to have, in that he was always available to help those in need.
David enjoyed being outdoors. He was an avid and ethical outdoorsman and understood the balances of nature in respect to living in harmony with it.
The department, as well as the community, suffered a great loss when David passed, and it will be difficult to replace the boots he filled. His memory will never be forgotten, as he touched all of us in some way. He wore many hats in life. At times he helped fill the firehouse with humor, but when the call came in and the firefighting hat went on, he was all business. He will be greatly missed.
My father was an amazing man I am greatful to have had him as my Daddy. We did many things together hunting, fishing, boating, riding four wheelers, building things, horseshoes and volleyball… And so much more. He took pride in everything he did and I am so grateful for the time I had with him. He got to see the birth of his 3 grandchildren which he loved with all his heart. When they were together he enjoyed every waking second with them. The last visit we had with him we built and painted a swing set as a family. A moment in time we will never forget. I am his daughter and he is my Daddy and no matter how hard people try that is something that can’t be changed.
– Samantha Ann Brier GerragauchJust stopping by to pay my respects to Matthew, and to say Thank you for his courage and strength. He will never be forgotten! My condolences to the family.
Starla, proud baby sister of Kenneth Nickell, LODD 4/6/99 KY
– Starla TaylorMy computer is being grumpy, and is fussing with me. I was writing to say that I spent time with several firefighters today online, paying my respects, and David was one of them. I enjoyed reading about his hobbies, how loved he was by his family, and how meticulous of a firefighter he was. God bless him for his service to our country, and God bless his family.
– Starla TaylorHe was my Bupbup. Even though I don’t remember everything we did I know a lot of what he did. He was a good man and a hard worker. He really was a ricochet rabbit. I love him and I know he loves me.
– AJ