Dave successfully completed training at the New York City Fire Academy on August 12, 1998 and was assigned to Engine Company 226. Dave now joined the ranks of DeRubbio Firefighters: his brothers Dominick (Battalion Chief), Robert (Engine 248) and Anthony (Engine 235) are also NYC Firefighters. Dave was well known to step up and help anyone when they needed it. When one of his fellow firefighters injured an ankle, Dave carried him into the hospital from the fire truck. When they didn't get immediate attention from the staff, he carried him out to another hospital. As part of a rotational training program, Dave spent a year and a half at Ladder 20 in Manhattan and Engine 290 in Brooklyn. Upon his return it was apparent to all that Dave was happy to be back at Engine 226 and meshed right back in with the guys as if he had never left. The members of 226 knew Dave to be a strong and determined firefighter with an easy going and fun loving manner. As a sports fan Dave was extremely loyal to the NY Rangers and the NY Yankees. He even wore a Rangers logo on his fire helmet. Much to his dismay, Dave's daughter Jessica chose to become an Islander fan. This always gave them plenty to talk about when it came to hockey, especially at the games they often attended together. Dave would gladly "suffer" through an Islander game for Jessica and then take her to a Ranger game to show her a "real team". He loved to play hockey as well. Dave would play roller hockey at his neighborhood park or join the guys in the firehouse for ice hockey out in Long Island. His enjoyment of life went beyond local sports. Dave loved to read and collect Mad Magazine. As a heavy metal fan he could often be found listening to Ozzy Osborne. Cars were another passion. He liked to watch NASCAR Racing where his favorite driver was undoubtedly Bill Elliot. And if not watching a race, you might find him out in the street working on a car, either his or a friends. Dave's family has always looked to him to get things done. He would do anything for his family big or small from helping fix a car to renovating their homes. In fact, he had recently done many repair and paint jobs for both his family and his neighbors. Lorraine, Jessica and all the DeRubbios will miss Dave's strong personality, loyalty nature and loving spirit.