On April 4, 2023, the FDNY lost another beloved member to September 11-related illness with the passing of Captain Gary A. Nybro.

Gary was born on October 13, 1965, to FDNY Lt. Ray Nybro and his wife, Rose, the middle of their three children. He was a graduate of Tottenville High School, Class of 1983. He received a bachelor’s degree in accounting and later a master’s degree in finance, both from St. John’s University, Staten Island campus. It was there he met and later married his college sweetheart, Sara. They later moved to Rockland County and raised two children, Erik and Emily, with their loving dog, Mara.

As a child, Gary often visited his father’s firehouse and enjoyed many years as a member of Los Bomberos firemen camp in Accord, New York. After probie school, he was assigned to Ladder 9 with his father’s badge. He was promoted to lieutenant at Engine 40 and to captain five years later at Engine 166. Throughout his 28 years of service, he received many commendations for heroic efforts and saving lives.

Extremely athletic, Gary played baseball for South Shore Little League, Babe Ruth League and the Men’s Softball team. He passed his love of baseball to his son, Erik, coaching the West Nyack Little League until he was 16. He loved the Yankees and often attended games with his son, dad, and brother.

Gary enjoyed many years of travel and quality time with his family. He visited all 50 states, enjoying the many beautiful National Parks this country has to offer. He retired from Ladder 166 and often spent time chatting with the neighbors, entertaining friends, and working in the yard. He kept a meticulous home and loved to host a party. Shortly before his diagnosis, Gary purchased his retirement home in Naples, Florida, with lifelong friends. He enjoyed a two-week stay there before succumbing to 9-11-related cancer.

A devoted father, husband, brother, uncle, and son, his absence is felt by many. He was a kind, honorable man who was a dedicated captain, lieutenant, and firefighter. The firehouse was his second home, and his brothers were his family. He served in the rescue and recovery efforts after 9/11 and succumbed to throat cancer on April 4, 2023. There is not a moment in the day that he is not missed and remembered fondly.