John Whelan - Firefighter Fatality - Denver, Colorado

Firefighter John Whelan, age 46, died on July 15, 2015, at a hospital in Denver, Colorado. 

John Whelan

Firefighter Whelan was a member of the Denver Fire Department. He had 15 years of service.  His rank was that of Engineer. 

On June 28, 2015, John was at the scene of a dumpster fire that broke out near an abandoned building in Denver.  He was on the roof of the building checking for damage when he fell through a skylight. He fell 20 to 25 feet and sustained several injuries including a broken arm, broken ribs and unspecified internal injuries. 

John was rushed to a local hospital and underwent several surgeries. He was released from the hospital but returned because of shortness of breath.  Sadly he passed away an hour later from cardiac arrest.  

Florian, Patron Saint of
Firefighters, pray for John
and for those who have
lost him.

A Memorial Fund for John has been created through the DFD Credit Union and members can deposit or transfer funds into the Memorial Fund Account by calling 303-228-5300. Checks can be made payable to the John Whelan Memorial Fund and deposited or mailed to The DFD Credit Union at 2201 Federal Blvd. Denver, CO. 80211. 

The Denver Fire Department is in mourning over the death of their brother. John showed pride and professionalism in his years with the Department. He will be forever remembered.

John's loved ones are devastated over his tragic death. He had always wanted to be a firefighter. He was a good husband and father. He did his best. He will be forever mourned.

John is survived by many loving comrades, friends and family members including his wife and young son.

Thank you for your service to the community, John. 

Pray for all who die in the line of duty.

Pray for all who die suddenly. They are with us one moment and are gone before we can say goodbye.

Pray that John is in heaven. Pray that he is at peace and is with God. Amen.