Donald Thacke
February 28, 1942 – August 6, 2026
Last December, 2025, Donald came to the REMA Christmas luncheon. He has not attended a REMA lunch in a number of years but thankfully he came to this one. We are all so glad he did. He ‘held court’ throughout the entire luncheon and spoke about the time he and Chris Brauer saved NYC and NJ from disaster by 10-91’ing (correcting) a leaking propane tanker stopped in the middle of the George Washington Bridge. Below is a short video of his talking about ESU. He looked so happy and was so appreciative of the love he received that day. He touched many lives. He will be missed.
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Rest in peace Don
worked with Don- [sq. 2] TK-3– long time & the rest of the squad 2 & 3TK. hunted & fished with him. He was a great E-MAN, & Source of knowledge, & FUN. GRANT HIM PEACE
Don took 10 min. What the FD couldn’t solve in 6hrs. Thx to Capt. Lynch & Lt. Swanson the press was given the real story 2E-men vs 200FD RIP my friend.
I had the honor to talk to Donald at the Christmas Party about the tanker job. Truly an ESU legend.
I had the honor of working with Don a few tours . He was a great E-Man with a great sense of humor , a true legend in ESU.
Rest in Peace Don.
Worked with Donald in Truck 3. Great partner and great family man. Turns out his parents and my parents were old time friends. Rest in peace.
One of my first tours in ESU was with Don. I was recovering from an STS injury at the time. Thanks for the first aid Don! Rest in peace.