by Ryan LeBlanc, B.Min, M.Div
Dispatcher, Communications Training Officer
I am writing in regards to the tragic death of Toronto Fire Services District Chief Bob Leek, who died in the line of duty on August 10, 2008. I will attempt to summarize my experiences with Chief Leek and that you may be able to use some of these words to honor him, as he deserves.
Bob was my friend, teacher, and mentor. I first met him in 1998 when I was a co-operative education student with the Toronto Fire Services. I was assigned to the Fire Academy, where Bob was assigned. Bob was one of the most knowledgeable instructors at the academy, and was an excellent communicator of very complex ideas. He was tasked with teaching about fire service hydraulics and fire pumps, two of the more difficult subject areas. Bob made learning as easy as it could have been and had such a clear understanding of all subject material. Most of the lessons he taught were backed up with real life stories, thus giving an increased depth of understanding to his students. One of my cherished memories of my graduation ceremony is a picture of Bob, another student, and I together. I always looked on the picture as a great teacher with two of his most dedicated and loyal students.
When I was no longer under Bob’s command as a student, his door remained wide open to me. There was one instance in which I sought out Bob’s guidance. Without hesitation he glanced at his schedule and invited me to his office. He was busy learning the ropes of a new assignment, having recently been promoted, yet he deliberately set aside time for me so we could chat. Bob was always a selfless man who did whatever he could to help people. Bob’s passion for helping others was only rivalled by his knowledge and expertise. The combination of the two set him apart, not only in the fire service but among professionals.
When I accepted a job with Toronto EMS he was delighted for me. He wasn’t disappointed, as I had feared, that I had chosen a different line of work and not continued as a firefighter. He was happy for me in that I was doing a noble job that made me happy. We both were assigned to Fire & EMS Headquarters. I would periodically use my meal and break periods to seek out Bob just to chat and say hello. Whenever I saw him, through the glass wall in the communications centre, I would try and figure out a way to get over there just to say hello.
I consider it an honor and privilege to have known Bob and to call him my friend. He was a genuine, good man, which there are not nearly enough of in this world. Bob’s current assignment was the District Chief of Emergency Planning. On August 10th he could have easily given his tasks in the field to another individual. Instead Bob chose to aid in field operations. He died doing what he loved so much, helping other people. He is deserving of a special place of honour and respect among the people of Toronto.
I find myself mourning the loss of such a good man and a friend. I am a better man because of my experiences with Chief Leek. The citizens of Toronto deserve to know what kind of man died in the line of duty, while coming to the aid of those who couldn’t help themselves.
