Cape Girardeau Fire Department Chaplain dies after cancer battle
FOX23 News at 9 p.m
CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (KBSI) — Cape Girardeau Firefighters Local 1084 announced the death of department chaplain Pastor David Dissen on Feb. 19, 2026, following a battle with cancer. He was 33-year chaplain for the Cape Girardeau Fire Department.
Dissen began serving the department in 1993 after the death of Firefighter Russ Henry. For more than three decades, he provided support to firefighters and their families during emergencies, line-of-duty deaths, personal losses and other critical incidents. He also attended promotions, retirements and other department milestones.
Union officials said Dissen regularly prayed for firefighters’ safety and considered the department an extension of his family. They described him as a steady and compassionate presence whose counsel and encouragement strengthened members of Local 1084 throughout his tenure.
Local 1084 extended condolences to his wife, Judy, and their family. According to the union, Judy asked firefighters attending visitation to sign the guest book with their name followed by “CGFD.” She also expressed appreciation for the firefighters who visited and shared their respect for her husband.
Visitation is scheduled for 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 26, at Ford and Sons Mount Auburn. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, Feb. 27, 2026, at Zion Lutheran Church in Gordonville.
