Memorial sign remembers fallen Gresham Firefighter Brian Flowers

New sign on Highway 212 honors 15-year veteran who died from occupational leukemia

Published on Mar. 6, 2026

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Gresham residents are being invited to remember firefighter Brian Flowers, honored with a new memorial sign along Oregon Highway 212 near 232nd Drive after his death from occupational leukemia. The sign, backed by local legislators and Gresham Firefighters Local 1062, was unveiled at Station 71 with Flowers' family and colleagues on hand to celebrate his 15-plus years of service.

Why it matters

The memorial sign serves as a lasting tribute to Flowers' dedication and sacrifice as a public servant, while also raising awareness about the occupational hazards and health risks that firefighters face on the job.

The details

The new memorial sign was installed along Highway 212 near 232nd Drive, a prominent location that will ensure Flowers' legacy is remembered by the broader Gresham community. The sign was championed by local legislators and the Gresham Firefighters Local 1062 union, who worked to secure its placement and unveiling at a ceremony attended by Flowers' family members and fellow firefighters.

  • The memorial sign was unveiled at Gresham Fire Station 71 on March 6, 2026.
  • Flowers served as a Gresham firefighter for over 15 years before passing away from occupational leukemia.

The players

Brian Flowers

A Gresham firefighter who served for over 15 years before passing away from occupational leukemia.

Gresham Firefighters Local 1062

The local union that backed the installation of the memorial sign honoring Brian Flowers.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

The takeaway

This memorial sign serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by firefighters in service to their communities, and the importance of honoring their legacies and raising awareness about the occupational hazards they face.