COEUR D’ALENE, Idaho – After 24 years of dedicated service, Engineer David Tysdal has retired from the Coeur d’Alene Fire Department (CDAFD). His final day with the department was January 31, 2026.
According to CDAFD, Tysdal’s retirement comes after injuries sustained in service, making continued medical treatment and recovery necessary for him and his family.
Tysdal’s career began in 2002 when he joined CDAFD as the private EMS system transitioned to a fire-based EMS system in Kootenai County. He was instrumental in establishing the Idaho Disaster Dogs search team and served as a K-9 handler for dogs Bailey and Maya.
He also played a key role in starting the Idaho Technical Rescue Team in Region 1, serving as a subject matter expert and instructor in various rescue disciplines such as Building Collapse, Confined Space and Trench Rescue and High Angle Rope Rescue.
Tysdal was a member of the apparatus committee and led efforts to introduce new fire apparatus and train personnel on their use. He also spearheaded the preparation of the fireboat for service, developing a training program for marine firefighting operations.
Recognized for his dedication, Tysdal was honored as Employee of the Year in 2016. He was recently nominated to receive the Medal of Honor for his heroic actions during the attack on Canfield Mountain.
The Coeur d’Alene Fire Department expressed gratitude for Tysdal’s service, stating, “Above all, Dave is one of the best human beings you will ever meet and we are lucky to have had him in our fire family.”
At this time, the Coeur d’Alene Fire Department will not be responding to media requests for interviews regarding this announcement.
