Former Annandale fire chief dies

Joseph Paul Gura Sr., former chief and life member of the Annandale Volunteer Fire Department (AVFD), died May 9, at the age of 70 at ManorCare Health Services-Alexandria.

Known as “Metro Joe,” Gura was born in Washington, D.C., and graduated from Annandale High School in 1966. He worked for Metro for 40 years, first as a bus driver, and retired as a train operator in 2008, earning many safety awards.

Gura joined the AVFD in 1962, worked his way through the ranks, served as chief 1983-89, and was named a life member in 2001. He is survived by his wife Wendy, two sons, and four grandchildren.

There will be a viewing for family and friends at Fairfax Memorial Funeral Home, 9902 Braddock Road, Fairfax, on Tuesday May 17, at 9 a.m., followed by a service at 10 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Joe’s memory to the AVFD.