Arlington Fire firefighter Donald E. “Don” Hogg answered his last alarm November 19, 2009. He contracted MRSA while caring for a patient. What he thought was possibly a pinched nerve, with no outward sign of MRSA, was actually his internal organs shutting down over a three day period. Once he was hospitalized, he died within twelve hours. He served Arlington Fire Department for 23 years.

Don was born August 28, 1960, to Bob and Peggy Hogg. He enjoyed serving others at a young age and always dreamed of being a firefighter. He was proud to become an Eagle Scout. He graduated from Berkner High School in Richardson, Texas, in 1978, then from Texas A&M University with a recreation parks degree in 1983. He met his wife, Jennifer, while at A&M, through Campus Crusade for Christ. They married after she graduated in December of 1984. They added his pride and joy, Dylan, to the family in 1993.

After graduating college, Don owned a remodeling business, but he never gave up on the idea of being a firefighter. He was hired by the Arlington Fire Department in February 1986. He received the Medal of Valor and Firefighter of the Year, was twice a member of the Crew of the Year, and was the recipient of the Chief’s Five Standards Award. Don was instrumental in development of the HAZMAT Team in 1988, with which he served 21 years. Don was always doing good, on and off the job; it was his high calling. If a neighbor’s washing machine flooded the house, Don not only cleaned up the mess, he took care of repairs, too. It is normal for firefighters to care for people, but for Don it was a full-time passion. He continually sought the difficult assignments, and all who worked with him continue to regard him as an outstanding firefighter and one of the hardest working men they knew.

Don served his community by being a member of the board for both Midlothian Parks and Midlothian Amateur Baseball Association. When the youth baseball teams needed a place to practice, he leveled his pasture and welded up a backstop. He served his family with the same passion, volunteering with his son’s school and baseball teams. Don shared a majority of his days off with his son, Dylan, imparting Godly values and teaching him life skills. An active member of Midlothian Bible Church, Don’s heart for his family and community was an extension of the deep love and grace he knew God showed him.

Don is survived by his wife, Jennifer; his son, Dylan; parents, Bob and Peggy Hogg; sister, Ann-Marie Hunter; brother, Chaly Balanza; Arlington Fire Department brothers; and a host of family and friends.