Joseph C. Flores, 59, retired Philadelphia fire official

Joseph C. Flores, 59, of Northeast Philadelphia, a retired Philadelphia fire official, died Saturday, May 16, at home of unclear causes.

Mr. Flores retired as a captain in the Philadelphia Fire Department in 2004 after a 28-year career.

A Navy veteran, he was certified as a fire-protection specialist and worked professionally and as a volunteer to prevent fires.

During his years with the Fire Department, he specialized in planning for the evacuation of high-risk populations - those in hospitals, assisted-living facilities, nursing homes, schools, high-rise buildings, industrial settings, and day-care centers.

Mr. Flores earned a bachelor's degree in psychology from Temple University and a master's degree in public safety management from St. Joseph's University.

He was an adjunct faculty member at Delaware County Community College and Montgomery County Community College and had also taught at Holy Family University, Drexel University, the University of the Sciences, and Community College of Philadelphia. His subjects were fire safety and public safety management.

Mr. Flores gave presentations across the country for the National Fire Protection Association and was president of the Citizens for Fire Prevention Committee, a nonprofit corporation.

In addition to helping in Philadelphia, he worked with other large urban centers to assess needs, develop solutions, and find resources necessary to reduce fires among high-risk populations.

Mr. Flores was honored with many awards, including the Chapel of the Four Chaplains Lifetime Achievement Award.

He is survived by his wife, Cheryl Lenzner; sons Joseph C. Jr. and Chad; a daughter, Ashley Flores; a grandson; two brothers; and a sister.

A life celebration was held Thursday, May 21.

Memorial donations may be made to the Citizens for Fire Prevention Committee via www.freedomfromfire.com.

610-313-8102