SFFA 2455 Mourns Loss of IAFF Brother

For those who had the privlege to meet and know him, Kelly Crush was a champion for MDA and set an monumental example to every firefigher.  SFFA 2455's executive board had the opportunity to meet and speak with Kelly at our PFFA state conventions in the past.  His presence and dedication will be missed.  SFFA 2455 would like to send its deepest sympathy to Kelly's family.   

IAFF Mourns Loss of Retired Member and MDA Champion Kelly Crush

March 27, 2012 – The IAFF is saddened to report the death of Kelly Erle Crush, a retired member of Wichita Falls, TX Local 432 and spokesperson for the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA). Crush, 51, lost his long, courageous battle with Lou Gehrig’s disease March 25.

“Crush was a true warrior for the MDA,” says IAFF General President Harold Schaitberger. “I am proud to say that I knew him well. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Crush family.”

Crush joined the Wichita Falls Fire Department in 1988, quickly becoming a well-respected fire fighter and an avid supporter of MDA.

“Kelly was one of the most beloved members of our local,” says Local 432 President Bobby Whitely. “He faced all the challenges of his disease with highest bravery. We cannot honor him enough.”

In 2008, what Crush thought was a pulled muscle, later was diagnosed with Lou Gehrig’s disease. But instead of focusing solely on his personal plight with the disease, he became a national spokesperson for MDA.

Crush worked hard as an advocate for those living with Lou Gehrig’s and other neuromuscular diseases. He focused on educating the community and personally visited fire stations to encourage fire fighters in their fundraising work for MDA.

Crush also made several high profile appearances during the MDA Telethon in Las Vegas, at the 2010 IAFF Convention in San Diego and many state affiliate conventions across the country.

He is survived by his sisters Annette and Carol.

The viewing will be held Friday, March 30, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., at Owens and Brumley Funeral Home, 1317 9th Street, Wichita Falls, Texas 76310. Services will be Saturday, March 31, at 1:00 p.m. at Kay Yeager Coliseum, 1000 5th Street in Wichita Falls.

Following the service, a “Celebration of Life” (wake) will be held at P-2, a local pub owned by two Local 432 members; 1409 Lamar Street in Wichita Falls.

The Holiday Inn located at 100 Central Freeway is offering discounted room rates for those attending the Crush funeral. Call (940) 761-6000 for reservations. The Howard Johnson located at 401 Broad Street is also offering reduced rates. For reservations, call (940) 766-6000.