PhilTepe – Dix Hills Fire Department

Alan Berkowitz from Dix Hills wrote on April 13, 2020 at 12:32 pm

Pal- I am sorry it took so long to gather my thoughts and write to pay tribute to my mentor. From that moment 20 years ago that we met, you made me feel welcomed. You showed me that people and families came first, not by words but actions. You greeted all of us with handshakes and hugs-which sadly are forbidden these days. We had the bond from the Air Force and our fire service, when my dad died, you were the first there. You guided me through cancer a car accident and how to be a chief. While I will never fill your shoes, I promise to try. Thank you for treating me like one of your own. We will take it from here but it cannot be the same. Rest in peace, brother. I am humbled to be the Chief today but I know its because of all that you taught me.

Nancy A. Binger from Dix Hills wrote on April 3, 2020 at 4:47 pm

Heartfelt sympathy goes out to the family and members of the Dix Hills Fire Department after hearing of Phil’s death. His warm smile and instant acceptance of the members of the Dix Hills Garden Club will long be remembered. Phil was instrumental is getting our club approval for the installation of the Blue Star Memorial that was dedicated last June 30, 2019. We will think of Phil each time our club meets in the community room at headquarters in the coming years, and all of his dedication will not be forgotten! Nancy A. Binger, Corresponding Secretary, and all the members of the Dix Hills Garden Club

Chanan Schupak from Dix Hills wrote on March 31, 2020 at 12:08 am

It's truly an honor to have the opportunity to know and learn from Chief Tepe. He taught me countless lessons over the years, and supported everyone that he was surrounded by. Just like himself, His legacy is truly one of a kind. Rest easily brother, we'll make you proud.

Jeanne Commisso from Dix Hills wrote on March 28, 2020 at 7:41 pm

You will be greatly missed my friend. Your wonderful smile, quiet voice and great big bear hugs will be remembered always.

Daniel McConnell from Halesite, NY wrote on March 27, 2020 at 4:02 pm

Very sad to hear the news of Chief Tepe’s passing. He was an amazing leader in the Fire Service and for many decades. He was a terrific role model and inspiration. Sincere condolences to his family and to the members of the Dix Hills Fire Department. May we all draw strength from the many fond memories we have of him. Dan McConnell

Lori Stiegler wrote on March 26, 2020 at 7:39 pm

Phil, you are sorely missed! You were always so friendly and made everyone feel welcome. Your dedication to this department was truly an inspiration. You looked out for everyone, and smoothed over some of the bumps that tend to happen in the fire service. We'll take it from here, chief.

Marie Bogdonoff from The Villages wrote on March 26, 2020 at 2:27 pm

My sincerest condolences to Tiff, PJ and Brent. Thinking of you all during this very difficult times. God Bless.

James Coschignano from Melville wrote on March 26, 2020 at 2:26 pm

Phil and I first met each other thru our fathers, who were both in the fire department, in our respective departments. We both followed in our fathers foot steps serving as Chief, Commissioner and both of us with over 50 years of service to our communities. We were in each others wedding party. Our families spent many times together including a vacation to Schroon Lake. We both enlisted in the USAF. Phil visited me in Hawaii on his way to Vietnam. Our family was very upset to hear of his passing. We will remember him always.

lorraine roberts from deer park wrote on March 26, 2020 at 9:44 am

Phil will be in our hearts and memories forever. It was great knowing you!

Jamie Arborea from Dix Hills wrote on March 26, 2020 at 3:28 am

Chief Tepe always brought a smile to my face every time I saw him. My first month coming into the department, he made me feel so welcomed. He was always there whenever I needed anything during tough times. I miss you chief and I'll remember all the good times. Thank you for bringing some happiness into my life. It was an absolute honor to serve the community alongside you. Rest in Peace Chief.

Jack O'loughlin from Commack wrote on March 25, 2020 at 11:08 pm

It was an HONOR and a Privilege to know you and call you a friend. I will miss our chats and cherish your memory. Rest in peace Brother 🙏💔

Christina Noriega from Dix Hills wrote on March 25, 2020 at 4:24 pm

Chief. I will miss you my friend. You have always been so kind to me. Your smile and warm caring hugs were always genuine. We would talk about our children and you were always so proud, you would glow when you spoke of them.. I am honored to have known you. I thank you for your service to our country and community. I will truly miss you. Rest in peace With love Christina

Dennis Sheridan from Northport wrote on March 25, 2020 at 1:01 pm

I had the opportunity to work with Phil at the Town of Huntington Fire Marshal’s office. He was a wealth of knowledge and experience. A true gentleman and pleasure to know. I will miss him. RIP Chief 🙏🏼

Richard Molinelli from Dix Hills wrote on March 25, 2020 at 7:19 am

Rest in Peace, my old friend.

PHIL ESPOSITO from Ballentine, S.C. wrote on March 25, 2020 at 12:32 am

I like so many was shocked and saddened to hear this sad news......may you rest in peace.....we will pray for you and for your family's tragic loss

Frank mongelli from Melville wrote on March 24, 2020 at 3:27 pm

Phil I will miss my friend very much.I will keep the memories of all the years we have known each other close to my heart.

Marilyn Byron from Dix Hills wrote on March 24, 2020 at 7:07 am

Dear Phil, I am missing you very much. Your support, kindness, & love meant so much to me. Your love for your family was truly spectacular. You remain a role model to all who came in contact with you...You are and will always be my special friend. Love, Marilyn

joshua nirenberg wrote on March 24, 2020 at 1:08 am

my memory of chief is you knew he was on the fire ground (as a coordinator) when you saw his hummer. he's a great man always said hello whenever I saw him horrible loss for the fire service

Bob Commisso from Dix Hills wrote on March 23, 2020 at 10:31 pm

Since my first days as a probie, Phil has shaped my years with our department, as a brother, a friend and as a personal mentor. It was his leadership, his knowledge, and his logical approach to everything, (always dispensed as a true friend and gentleman), that got me through some difficult times, whether on the fire ground or in the boardroom. In one area, I can only hope to follow in Phil’s footsteps……..his deep love for our Department. No person ever loved our Department like he has, and that love was contagious. He showed that love in everything he did, and passed it on to all of us.

Pete Paccione from Commack wrote on March 23, 2020 at 6:46 pm

My condolences to the Tepe family and the Chiefs and members of the Dix Hills fd .You were always a gentleman and a great man to talk to . You will be missed dearly RIP Chief Tepe

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