LAFD Firefighter Loses Battle To COVID-19
The Los Angeles City Fire Department (LAFD) extends its most sincere condolences to the family and friends of Firefighter III/Paramedic (FF/PM) Jose M. Perez. FF/PM Perez passed away due to COVID-19 complications on Saturday, July 25, 2020. FF/PM Perez leaves behind a wife and three children.
An outdoor funeral service for FF/PM Perez will be held on Saturday, August 15, 2020 at 10:00 AM at Cottonwood Church, 4505 Katella Avenue, Los Alamitos, CA 90270.
FF/PM Perez began his career with the LAFD on December 8, 2003. During his 16-year career, he was assigned to Fire Stations: 39, 52, 65, 33, and at Fire Station 21 for the last four years. During the last 24 hours, many stories have been posted on social media about how Jose positively affected so many of our members. His generosity and compassion never wavered, whether it was for a patient or for his fellow crew members. One story that displayed Jose’s kindness and consideration comes from FF/PM David Chavez (FS 33"A"):
“Several years back after learning that a fellow Firefighter was experiencing some financial hardship and stress, Jose took it upon himself to purchase Disneyland passes for the Firefighter and his family. Jose's generosity did not end there, he then proceeded to accompany them to Disneyland along with his family and purchased all the meals of the day as well as souvenirs for the kids to take home. That’s who Jose was!!!!”
Any donations in his honor may be sent to the Los Angeles Firemen’s Relief Association Widows, Orphans & Disabled Firefighters fund: https://www.lafra.org/
The LAFD is grateful for the kindness of so many, including baseball legend Reggie Jackson and NBA Champion Quinn Cook, as well as the support of agencies involved in honoring our brother Firefighter III/Paramedic Jose M. Perez on his journey from the hospital this past Saturday. We offer special thanks the La Palma Police Department, Orange County Fire Authority, Los Angeles County Fire Department, Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, and the California Highway Patrol.
