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Committee hears memorial for Gresham firefighter Brian Flowers; family and colleagues testify
Summary
Senate Concurrent Resolution 24, recognizing the life and service of Gresham firefighter Brian Edward Flowers, received testimony from Senator Chris Gorsek, the firefighter's family and union representatives; witnesses described Flowers's 15 years of service, occupational leukemia diagnosis, and local impact.
The Senate Committee on Rules held a public hearing on Senate Concurrent Resolution 24 to recognize Brian Edward Flowers for his service as a Gresham firefighter.
Sen. Chris Gorsek, who introduced the resolution, described Flowers as "a dedicated firefighter, a loving husband and father, and a pillar of the Gresham community." Gorsek told the committee that Flowers served 15 years with the Gresham Fire Department and that his death at age 49 from occupational leukemia underscores risks firefighters face long after exposure.
Family members and colleagues appeared in support. Elsie Flowers, Brian's wife, spoke briefly and described a personal sign she interprets as support from Brian: "He dropped me 5 dimes, initially...finding this tells me that Brian's here, and he says, keep going else." Kevin Larson, president of Local 1062 (Congressional Professional Firefighters), described Flowers's on-the-job service and community presence, saying Flowers was "a selfless friend and coworker who constantly reminded you to keep your family on the top of your priority list." Sister-in-law Bree Areola urged a memorial highway and said the public turnout at a recent memorial event showed the breadth of his impact.
Testimony emphasized Flowers's water-rescue work, community outreach, and the emotional toll of his loss on colleagues and family. The committee closed the hearing; no committee vote on SCR 24 was recorded in the transcript.
Why it matters: Supporters framed the resolution as a recognition of first-responder sacrifice and community leadership, and several witnesses requested durable honors including a memorial highway designation.
Next steps: The hearing record shows supportive testimony; the committee did not record a vote in the session transcript.
