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David Weiss Obituary
David Martin Weiss, a New York City firefighter, was built like a fireplug. He stood 5-foot-9 and weighed 225 pounds. He was all muscle, with biceps as big as the thigh of a medium-build woman.
He was bulldozer strong. He looked as tough as he sounded. His head was shaved and his body was covered in tattoos. He drove Harleys.
He was an ironworker before he became a firefighter 13 years ago. He blended both experiences to become a member of the Fire Department's elite force. He joined Rescue Company 1 in Times Square about six years ago after receiving a medal for a rescue attempt: a man's car careered off Franklin D. Roosevelt Drive and plunged into the East River. Mr. Weiss, off duty, stopped his car, climbed down the iron trestles of the elevated highway and jumped into the river to rescue the driver, whose heart had given out.
"He just jumped, knowing that he was the person's only hope," said Thor Johannessen, a firefighter.
Mr. Weiss, 41, of Maybrook, N.Y., had a mean sense of humor. "If he saw a thread, he knew how to pull it to unravel the whole shirt," said Joel Kanasky, another firefighter. "He was the king of that."
Profile published in THE NEW YORK TIMES on November 4, 2001.
Weiss, David Martin, 41, FDNY Firefighter of Maybrook, NY was declared missing on September 11, 2001 at the World Trade Center Tower One. Born and raised in Freeport, NY, he joined the Freeport Fire Dept. in 1978 and the Ironworker's Union Local 580 in New York City. He was appointed to FDNY in 1989 and became a member of the Elite Rescue Company 1 after receiving the Emily Trevor-Mary B. Warren Medal for Heroism, in 1997 having rescued a man from the East River. In addition, David was a recipient of other awards including The Fire Fighter's Quarterly Man Of The Year Award in 1993. He also received the New York City Transit Award. He is survived by his children, Michael and Alissa of Lake Ariel, PA, his mother Joan Weiss-Prowler and step-father Robert Prowler of Pompano Beach, FL, brother Barry of LaGrangeville, NY, and sister Michele Little of Encinitas, CA, his companion Kathryn Emhardt of Maybrook, NY and his former wife Karla. His father Michael Alan Weiss preceded him in death in 1981. A memorial service was held at Central Synagogue, NYC, September 30, 2001.
Paid notice publiched in the FT. LAUDERDALE SUN-SENTINEL on 12/17/2001.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Steph
March 11, 2023
David I didnt know you but you sounded like a winderful gentle giant who cared so much for others, putting them first always. The world is a better place having been blessed with a wonderful person as you. I will never ever forget you and your brothers.
Michele Weiss-Little
June 28, 2021
We're coming up to the 20th year of September 11th, 2001 aka 9/11! It still feels like yesterday yet with more moments of sadness because you are not here to make me laugh til tears fall from my eyes. Instead my eyes fill with tears of missing you. :(
Michele Little
September 22, 2020
I wonder how you would be in this world today?...
John Duffey
April 4, 2018
I can still see you and the other Jr firemen of squad 5 sitting in the back of the meeting room all chanting P I Z Z A ! RIP my friend.
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Toni Barney
April 4, 2018
missing you my cousin David! such a great man.
Charles Dodt
December 7, 2017
RIP BROTHER!!! I did not know you well, but what I do know is you are missed and loved by many!!! I only met you a couple of times, but you have left a lasting impression on me!!! ML&R
Emily Simon
September 24, 2017
Thank you all for sharing with me the favorite song of David, and appreciating that I will be mentioning him. He was a true hero and I feel like it is important for Jewish people to recognize our own heroes.
Michele Little
September 16, 2017
Here's another candle burning brightly for you. Remembering you and missing the laughter.
Megan Armstrong
September 12, 2017
Hi emily
I am daves significant others daughter megan. He loved rock music and his favorite song was dead or alive. Please let me know if you have any more questions
Susan Weiss
September 11, 2017
R.I.P. David.
Sam Weiss
September 5, 2017
Hi Emily, What a great tribute to Dave you are doing. I cant speak for his sister but seems like would be a great honor. He liked rock music for sure.
Emily Simon
September 4, 2017
My name is Emily Simon and I am sorry for your loss. I live in Ashland, Oregon and am a member of Temple Emek Shalom. On Yom Kippur there is a service called Martryology where we feature heroes. I believe that your brother was a hero and I would like to profile him at the service. Would it be OK with you if I did so??
I was also wondering if you could please let me know if David had a favorite song, or a favorite type of music?
thank you for considering this request.
Emily Simon
September 4, 2017
Greetings:
My name is Emily Simon. I am a member of Temple Emek Shalom in Ashland, Oregon. On Yom Kippur there is a section of the service called Martyrology in which we pay tribute to Jewish heroes and I think That David Weiss deserves to be specifically remembered and talked about. While I can find plenty of information about him on line, I was hoping that you could perhaps, if it is not too painful, let me know what was his favorite song, or if he didn't have a favorite song, what was his favorite type of music.
I also wanted to ask your permission to speak about him in such a public forum.
My email address is [email protected] and I would very much appreciate a response.
I am so sorry for. You loss and may his memory continue to be a blessing.
Michele Little
September 13, 2016
I miss you every day. I am working hard to get to the truth of September the 11th. I miss your sarcasm and laughter and most of all I miss your love!
Susan Weiss
September 11, 2016
For eternity, but especially on this day, I am reminded of how selfless and brave you are. You are my hero always and forever. Rest in peace.
Brian Rowe
September 11, 2016
Another year has passed... You are STILL RIDING with me on every call...
RTF
tont ozga
September 7, 2016
i miss you bro you were a god man i know your with good i will see you one day
September 6, 2016
Prayers for you and your family today and everyday
Christopher Boyle
March 23, 2016
I worked with Dave at L-46. An excellent FF. I heard he was transferring to L-46 so I called his old company. The Officer told me a story. Dave was Jewish, so the Officer told me they were driving around Williamsburg and the Hasidim were walking in the street. So Dave tells the Officer he speaks Hebrew, he'll take care of it. So the Officer tells me he gets on the PA on the rig and says "Oy, get out of the way". That was Dave. Lots of laughs and a good Fireman.
Christopher Boyle
March 23, 2016
I worked with Dave at L-46. An excellent FF. I heard he was transferring to L-46 so I called his old company. The Officer told me a story. Dave was Jewish, so the Officer told me they were driving around Williamsburg and the Hasidim were walking in the street. So Dave tells the Officer he speaks Hebrew, he'll take care of it. So the Officer tells me he gets on the PA on the rig and says "Oy, get out of the way". That was Dave. Lots of laughs and a good Fireman.
Susan Weiss
September 27, 2015
My deepest and warmest condolences to my cousins Michele and Barry and Aunt Joan and David's children. Although we lost touch many, many years ago I will never forget the good times growing up together. R.I.P. David
Susan Weiss
September 27, 2015
My deepest and warmest condolences to my cousins Michele and Barry and Aunt Joan and David's wife and children. Although we lost touch many, many years ago I will never forget the good times growing up together. R.I.P. David
Michele Little
September 13, 2015
Dear David,
Another year without you.
I have shared stories of you throughout Europe. I love you and miss you.
-Michele
September 11, 2015
Your light will always shine in our family
The Considine Family
Thomas Mehrmann
September 11, 2015
David was a honorably and kind soul.He was always respectful and kept a watchful eye on both my sister and me when we would hang out with the gang at the Union Reform Temple near Brookside Elementry School in Baldwin.You were always kind and giving. You were a fantastic individual Dave. I think of you always on this date. God Bless you.
September 11, 2015
A day that I usually have tears in my eyes I find myself giggling about all your stories...you are so loved and missed
May 1, 2015
Thank you Gabe!
David was an unforgettable man!
-Michele (sister)
Gabe Griffith
April 29, 2015
I recently participated in a 9/11 memorial stair climb. The climb was for all the brothers lost that day everyone climbed for an individual fireman I was honored to climb for David Weiss and I would do it over and over again!
Paul Kajtna
April 28, 2015
Thank you for thinking of others first and wanting to help people in the worst situations.
April 8, 2015
Hi, my name is Abby. I'm from Maryland. I am researching Martin Weiss to make a memorial for him. I was wondering if you could give me more information about him. My teacher's email is [email protected] if you have any information. Thank you!
Patty Lancaster
November 15, 2014
Thank you so much for sharing your pictures of Firefighter Weiss, at the station, while saving lives, and with his family. God Bless you all.
Mark Strazzabosco
October 23, 2014
Met your Mom today in Statesville, NC while in line to vote. RIP Brother!
Michele Little
September 12, 2014
Come on baby, light my fire!
S Weiss
September 12, 2014
Say hello to Merlin for me....
September 12, 2014
Another year gone by. You're family is doing great Dave R.I.P.
michele little
September 12, 2014
I Love You David!
Brian Rowe
September 11, 2014
Still Riding brother... You will never be forgotten!
July 21, 2014
All men are created equal, then a few become firemen. ~Author Unknown.
Happy birthday in a Heaven!!
May 20, 2014
Miss you!!
May 20, 2014
Freebird comes to mind when I think of you. No matter how much time passes.....I miss you!!
William Grodman
February 2, 2014
We tend to remember things from early childhood and retain those memories our entire lives. I have memories of an older David ( he was one grade above me) with his cousin Laurence. No two boys were more energized, fearless and mischievous. But they had wonderful hearts, and this surely spoke to David's altruism and compassion for others... David we were really not friends but somehow you have been a part of my heart. My best to your loved ones.
G Bryan
December 7, 2013
Thank you for lending me your strength and courage today.
Rod Gonzalez
September 11, 2013
I never met you but about 2 days after the attack I received a phone call from your sister still looking for you and evidently I had gotten and old phone number that you had given up. Upon learning I too am a fireman your sister opened up and told me what a wonderful person and dedicated fireman you were. I think of you every 9/11 and wish your family well. Thank you for your sacrifice, the world is better because of you.
Sharon LM
August 5, 2013
Seeing the most recent postings, really warms my heart and soul to see that we will NEVER forget
Marty you ARE our HERO
Dorothy Demetriou
August 4, 2013
I was so lucky to have know you. You were such a talent.
Linda May
July 19, 2013
My heart aches when I think of all the unselfish, giving people we lost on 9-11. RIP 'angel David.
Dan
May 30, 2013
While reading First Responers the untold story of 9/11 and the NYPD I came across a story about David inside Tower One where my brother John D'Allara an NYPD ESU officer also lost his life. I am so saddened to find a legacy site for him here.
Elsa Vandewater Tessitore
January 24, 2013
Just a quick note to reach out to the family,friends and loved ones of David. I knew David back at Brookside Elementary School and as happens, lost touch as we grew up and went our separate ways. As I continue to live in Baldwin, I frequently tell my own kids about the "good old days" and they are amazed when I can tell them all the names of the kids in the class photos and even where different kids lived on what streets off Brookside Avenue. Michele, I remember you too. I think you played the flute in band and I remember running into you once as you must have gotten off the train and was crossing Sunrise Hwy years ago. I was deeply saddened to learn of David's passing as I remember him fondly and with love. Do I recall correctly, the clearest blue eyes and blond hair and a bday shared with my brother in July? From the limited entries I have read, it appears he was a true hero, a real good guy who the world needs more of. I also viewed his name of a beautiful plaque at the library on the fireplace mantle beneath a picture of the NYC skyline. I hope that those who knew him are able to find some peace in their memories, as I do in mine even after all these years. I am truly sorry for your loss.
September 11, 2012
Although I didn't know you, I know the spirit that you had. The spirit of helping those in need, of courage,and of freedom. May that spirit live on through our childern. Never forgotten and will never forget.
Curtis Burns
September 11, 2012
You have fought the good fight brother. RIP
Brian Rowe
September 11, 2012
11 years my brother... No worries though, you are still riding with me EVERYDAY You ARE remembered
Michele Weiss-Little
September 10, 2012
For YOU David. I love you and miss your comedic style that would make me laugh so hard it would bring tears to my eyes. It feels like yesterday that I just talked with you. -Michele
Steve White
September 8, 2012
You'll never be forgotten
anthony v ozga
September 7, 2012
miss you bro tattoo tony o
Sidney Blustain
February 29, 2012
As a Jewish fireman in Chicago for 33 years I feel a special kinship to David. I will be in N.Y.C. to visit in May where I will pay respects to my brothers
David T.
September 12, 2011
I wanted to take the time to reach out to Firefighter Weiss's family and let them know that he will never be forgotten. I am a Firefighter in Colorado and participated in the 9/11 memorial stair climb here in Denver to honor the memory of those that lost there lives that day. I had a picture of FF Weiss that I carried for 110 floors of climbing to signify the number of floors in the World Trade Center. Even thought I did not know FF Weiss, he was a brother Firefighter and he will not be forgotten. My condolences to his family and friends.
September 12, 2011
I love you David!
Kelley Cross
September 11, 2011
On the 10th anniversary of that horrific day, I stopped by the fire house up the street from my home. I had noticed a placard from my walks by there many times before -- a tribute to one of the fallen on 9/11. I had picked up some flowers to lay on the placard for David Weiss. I looked up what little I could find on the internet and discovered what an astounding person Mr. Weiss was. Part of the elite Rescue 1 Midtown Manhattan, I learned that Mr. Weiss had been decorated having rescued a man who’s car had plunged into the East River. While off duty, Mr. Weiss climbed down the trestles of FDR drive, and dove into the water to rescue the driver. Mr. Weiss is one of the many heros lost from the 9/11 attacks. I cannot, and never will be able to, imagine the horrors Mr. Weiss witnessed that day. May we all never forget, of loose sight of what a privilege and blessing it is to live in this country -- a blessing made possible by the heroic actions and character of David Weiss, and countless others like him.
September 11, 2011
Ten years today David, the world lost a truly great firefighter, and so as to not let the importance of your gifts to the fire service be forgotten, I've started this in your honor:
http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/DavidWeissFDNYRES1CUE
Still riding with me EVERYDAY brother.
Stephen White
September 10, 2011
I never had the privilege of meeting David, but his life has touched mine through his friends and family, and the unbelievable heroism of his final sacrifice. He was, and is, a continuing inspiration.
David receiving medal for his East River Rescue in 97
Mike
September 10, 2011
Karla, Michael (son) and Alissa (daughter) with David at Alissa's Bat Mitzvah
Mike
September 10, 2011
Teaching kids at Freeport
Mike
September 10, 2011
Shawn Harmon
August 16, 2011
I was a volunteer firefighter in central Mich. On September 11, 2001. I can remember being in the barn watching what transpired on that fateful day. My wife bought the series, "The Bravest" for my 29th birthday. Although I never had the honor of meeting you, you became a hero to me. I will carry you with me to every scene. Brother, you alive forever through me.
Ian E
April 14, 2011
I am an eighth grade student doing a research project on FDNY and September 11th. I would first like to offer my condolences to the family of David Martin Weiss. If anybody would like to share any information about how great a guy David was please contact me at [email protected] Thank You.
April 1, 2011
Dave, Our best memory of you is the proud and happy father of your kids at their Bar and Bat Mitzvahs. Thank God for people like you. Rest in Peace.
Eve and Ken Herel
March 31, 2011
Brother Dave, Nothing was gonna stop you from going to rescue 1, you were one of my favorite characters. I will always value your friendship and commeratery. Say hello to My brother and Richie. What a trio. Never forget! Joe Higgins Freeport NY
Sharon L. Moskowitz
March 31, 2011
It's going to be a good day! Remembering you ALWAYS! Today's, 3/31/11, Newsday feature was YOU!!
Christine Anglim
March 30, 2011
Thinking about the stories you told still makes me smile and laugh. Glad I never bought that BMW from you all those years ago. Rest in peace Dave
February 25, 2011
Rest in Peace
JORDAN HUTCHINSON
January 28, 2011
DAVID- IM SO INSPIRED BY YOUR HEROISM ON 9/11. I WILL NEVER FORGET YOUR BRAVERY ON 9/11. I PRAY FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY EVERY NIGHT. GOD BLESS YOU HERO. THANK YOU FOR WHAT YOU GAVE ON SEPT 11TH.
Britt Gammon
September 15, 2010
My name iss Britt Gammon im a Fire Fighter in Murfreesboro Tennessee. At the Nashville 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb today, each Fire Fighter was handed a badge to remember a firefighter. I was happy to walk 110 flights of stairs in honor of hero David Weiss. I will keep your picture with me and honor you every day im on the job thank u for everything u have done i will pray for your family and i will Never Forget 9/11.
Dan Lee
September 12, 2010
A few years before 9-11 my brother and I visited Rescue 1. We were both Volunteer Firefighters so this was a real treat for us. David Weiss took time to give us the grand tour and shared stories with us about calls they had been on. He made us laugh with some of the stories. He was a mountain of a man very direct but kind. I could tell that he was enjoying giving us the tour as much as we were enjoying taking it. When I fly my flag on 9-11 I think about him and the other brave men that we met that day. I bought a Rescue 1 T-shirt that day and I still have it and consider it to be my own sacred tribute to those Heroes. I get it out on 9-11 and tell my sons the story about Rescue 1. I will never forget.
Logan B
September 11, 2010
Dave, I knew you for a short time brother. You were an inspiration then and you still are today. You had an impact on every soul you came into contact with and your impacts today reach farther than ever before. Here's to you and those by your side, who departed with the truest bravery and honor. Love goes out to those who continue day by day with you in their hearts. You will never be forgotten. I salute you.
Andrew Newman
September 11, 2010
At the Colorado 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb today, each participant was handed a sticker and a flag to remember a firefighter. I was happy to walk 110 flights of stairs in honor of hero David Weiss.
Brian Rowe
September 10, 2010
David, I'll be at the firehouse tomorrow - so today I've visited your page. Know you'll be "Still Riding" as always with me tomorrow. Blue Skies brother
September 10, 2010
this one's for YOU Marty
Lorie gantz
September 10, 2010
I light this candle for you today1 I think of you often. You are so loved and missed by so many people. Till we meet again. keep the fires burning. Love and miss you everyday!
Lorie Gantz
September 10, 2010
I think of you often Dave! Love and miss you tons! Keep the fires burning!
Tom Tabaczynski
September 5, 2010
To David's Family and Friends, I am thinking of you as the ninth anniversary of his death approaches. I learned about Rescue 1 from a story on CBS News 48 Hours in December 2001. From the CBS News website I followed a link to Rescue 1's website, where I found a link to this Guest Book. My heartfelt thanks for sharing your memories and photos--and for giving me this opportunity to say, "I care." Please think of this entry as a hug from me.
Michele Little
September 3, 2010
My saying since September 11th, 2001 is "This is the only moment we have; make it the most precious moment we've got." Thanks Steve, once again, for your entry.
David's sister, Michele
Steve Weiss
September 3, 2010
I cant help around this time of year remembering Dave from living next door to Rescue 1. Each day my bullmastiff and I saw him he would feed Merlin Oreo's from the kitchen. Then he would ask if he could take him home with him... He said he'd keep him in the house. I'd always say no of course.
My most distinct memory of him is patting him on the chest so my dog would jump on him. The guy was a true super hero... even before 9/11. Sorry I moved out 3 weeks before 9/11 and never had a chance to say goodbye. Gosh you never know when its your last chance. I think he was even getting off shift that morning... Im sure he regretted even being in that situation, but we all know he would never have walked the other way.
Sharon L M
September 2, 2010
Michele,
Sad for you and the girls not being able to make it to NY this year... As always, in thought and prayer!
I will NEVER Forget!!
By the way, I posted a picture of Dave with the Wensleys that was taken in 1999.
HUGS, Sharon LM
Michele Little
September 1, 2010
Here's my candle
Michele Little
September 1, 2010
I love you David. Michele
David M. Weiss 1962-1963 Adorable, Yes?
Michele Little
September 1, 2010
Due to lack of funds, Cory, Sarah and I will not be in NYC for the 9th September 11th Memorial Service. I am sad about this. :(
To David, there is not a day that goes by without thoughts of you, your laughter, your sarcasm and your love. I miss you so much! -Michele
Marty and the Wensleys 1999 Freeport FD Installation
Sharon L Moskowitz
September 1, 2010
S Cenci
August 30, 2010
David's name is being added this year to the 9-11 Memorial in Monroe Township, NJ at the request of his uncle, Shell Kaylie. Please join us on September 11, 2010 at 6:30pm for our service.
July 21, 2010
happy 50th birthday july 21 2010 rest in peace love mom
jason Conaway
June 4, 2010
The one that always reminds me of my first trip to NY..Riding along with him and My Uncle inlaw Dan Williams..He would make fun of me because of the way I talked,and the fact that I was from NC..He had me laughing so hard..A fun guy to be around. Thanks for the memories! I will never forget!
david weiss
January 21, 2010
aloha to you our fallen hero. we shall never forget. your name will live forever in our hearts and minds. mahalo da-vid.
Russ Strobel
December 11, 2009
David your strength of spirit is still evident in the world today. Although you left suddenly your presence and guidance is now acknowledged even today on the other side of the world. Rest in Peace David
September 28, 2009
Sharon M
September 24, 2009
Michele, I am so happy to hear that you were able to come to NY for 9/11. We went to 2 services that day, one for Richie Muldowney and a candlelight service in the evening. Despite the bad weather, this was the most 'peaceful' 9/11 to date for me. I felt Dave, Richie and Kiefer's presence througout the day.
Michele Weiss-Little
September 23, 2009
...The roundtrip tickets were gifted by the Salvation Army!
Michele Weiss-Little
September 23, 2009
My daughters Cory, Sarah and I were gifted 3 roundtrip tickets to NY for the 8th Memorial Service at Ground Zero. The Red Knights of NJ rode us in on their bikes early morning of the 11th in the rain and gusty wind. We are so grateful and honored to have had the opportunity to be in NY and say our prayers with the beautiful roses down at the WTC site. Thank you all for keeping David's memory alive!
His sister, Michele
Michele Weiss-Little
September 23, 2009
Jessica,
If you ever come back to this site, PLEASE contact me!
Thank you for post here.
With love, Michele
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