Howard enjoyed going to Brogan’s Pub near his cottage in Ireland. He sent me this toast from there, always thoughtful.

I am so sorry to miss this service. I showed up today a week late. Howard was such a help to me when I was Mayor of Annapolis and I so want to pay my respects. I admired his can do attitude and kindness. I was sorry we lost contact in our later years, one of my regrets after lock downs closed off social engagements.  Please know I have thought of him often. He leaves a great legacy not only in government operations. But in his respect for historic preservation.  I will hold on to my fond memories working with him . And I will plant a tree in his memory in our city park.

Howie and I go back to 1971 when the BNDD/DEA AirWing was in its formative time. Howie was a supporter and friend to the AirWing.
To many memories and stories to write here. My last conversation with Howie was trying to coordinate him coming to Dallas for the 50 anniversary of DEA at the AirWing HQ. I along with others were looking forward to reliving memories of years past. It was with great sadness that I heard of Howie’s passing. My sympathy to his wife and family. He will be missed.

I am so sorry to hear the sad news about Howard. My sympathy goes out to the family

“Fair Winds…and Following Seas” for this great and good man. Sincere condolences for his family, friends and colleagues. 
       God Bless Mr. Safir

Mimi Shinnick , USMS Retired

Dear Carol and family,

While Howard and I never were in the same federal law enforcement agency, I had the privilege of working with him on a number of sensitive matters over a period of years while he was in the US Marshall's Service.  Howard had great ideas and even more energy as to how we could get the best results in going after criminals. He did what was best for law enforcement and the nation rather than for himself personally.  I had the greatest of respect for him. You all have my deep condolences.

Brian Bruh

As the former commanding officer of the Bronx Detective Nightwatch, I had the pleasure of meeting Commissioner Safir at several deadly fire scenes while he served with the FDNY. He was a gentlemen and I admired his concerns for the first responders, residents and the victims. Unfortunately I retired from NYPD before he became our Police Commissioner. His family should be very proud of him as I was.

So Sad of his death he was great man good leader and he took us where we belong on top of Law enforcement

Sande and I were so sorry to hear of Howard's passing. It was so nice to share the Regent cruise with you both. Sorry that we were unable to line up another. I have fond professional memories of working with Howard. Our best to you and your family. Charles and Sande Updegraph

So sorry, he passed too early. We carpooled together for awhile in DC. When  he was in the Marshalls service he was a member of my Board of Directors at EPIC. A great guy!!!! Always supported me!

A superlative public servant.  Rest in peace.

Howard and Carol have been our lifelong friends. We send our deepest condolences to Carol and to Adam and Jennifer and their families.  Howard was a role model for everyone. He devoted his life to law enforcement to help make a better life for American citizens. His achievements speak for Howard’s patriotism, bravery, leadership and kindness.  He truly made our lives better through his selfless acts of loyalty and service to America. We shared many good times   We played golf wherever we could. Hawaii and Ireland were two of the many locations.  We will miss Howard. We’ll miss his sense of humor, his humility, and his kindness and lifelong friendship. We will always love you Howard.

My favorite memory with Howard was a simple, quiet afternoon at my house in Lynbrook, after he retired as commissioner.  He was reflecting on his New York City service as commissioner of the fire department and the police department.  Although he enjoyed all the positive things he did in the city he felt it was time.  As always Howard‘s first priority was his family. He talked about spending as much time as possible with Carol and the kids.  Howard was a great husband and father but he was also a great friend.  I feel fortunate to have had Howard as a friend.

Had the pleasure meeting Commissioner Safir at a Medal Day Ceremony as well as cooking him a meal at our firehouse in Harlem! A true gentleman! Several years later as I waited on line in a Bagel Store in Southold we had a nice conversation recalling that night in Harlem. Dinner was delayed 2 hours so we could put out the 2 floors of fire we responded to ! A quick shower then Surf n turf for the men and the Commish!! God Bless 🙏🏻🇺🇸

Elaine and Howard children of Rose and George Safir 1940 s

Howard Carol and Brad 2021 Hannah s wedding

When Howard entered a room, grace followed. Despite his imposing figure, he was kind and friendly to all. I was honored to have been on the periphery of his orbit. He was unabashedly proud of Carol, Jennifer, and Adam as he should have been. Together He and Carol were a force majeure in their support of many worthy causes. RIP my friend, you have earned eternal rest.

I mourn the passing of Police Commissioner Howard Safer, a true professional who led us well. I was privileged to serve as his                      Chief of Patrol and witnessed his insight and drive to combat crime and enhance the quality of life for all New Yorkers, We in the N.Y.P.D. were fortunate to have served during his successful tenure. His legacy of achievement stands out in the history of New York City.        My deepest regrets and sympathy to his wife, Carol, son ,Adam and daughter Jennifer.                                              Fidelis ad Mortem.                               
                                                                                        John W. Scanlon

Carol and family; I was saddened to hear about Howards’ passing and wanted to extend my heartfelt condolences to you and your family during this difficult time.  May he rest in peace and love for evermore.

I was very saddened to learn of Howard’s passing earlier this week. In a way however, 9/11 was a fitting day in that it calls to mind the great sacrifices made by Police Officers, Firefighters and Federal Law Enforcement Officers to protect our Great Country. Howard played significant roles during his long and distinguished career in all three areas, as Police Commissioner, Fire Commissioner and multiple roles as a leading Federal Law Enforcement Officer. I was proud to serve with him in the NYPD and it was one of the greatest honors of my career when he promoted me to be his top lawyer and serve as Deputy Commissioner of Legal Matters. In that role, I saw firsthand his dogged determination to do all he could to protect our City and due to his leadership many lives were saved and the NYPD firmly established itself as a national (international) model to protect large cities with Courtesy, Professionalism and Respect (his signature initiative). My wife, Regina and I send our most sincere condolences to his lovely wife Carol, his son Adam, daughter Jennifer and the rest of his family.

My heart is filled with sadness and shock.   I met Howard Safir over 50 years ago in Headquarters/DEA.    I was a young girl out of West Virginia and he and his wife, Carol, took me under their wings and truly made me feel special.    He actually introduced me to my husband of 51 years which I will always be grateful for.    He was certainly kind and generous to me and his family welcomed me and family into their home.   My memories are forever and I am so blessed to have known him.   Sending heartfelt condolences to Carol, Jennifer and Adam.    May their wonderful memories sustain them during this most difficult time.

My deepest condolences to the Safir Family.  Commissioner Safir was a kind and caring person.  He made an indelible impact on many during he long and storied career.  Here I am with PC Safir during my promotion to sergeant, supervisor detective squad. Thank you for your leadership.

To Commissioner Safir's family,
I did not have the opportunity to work or ever meet Commissioner Safir, however my family was very fond of the Germano family in Lynbrook, NY and I believe my parents may have met Commissioner Safir and his wife through Mr & Mrs George Germano.  I did work for the DEA in NYC beginning in 1987 and heard many stories of Howard, his colleagues and the BNDD or FBN.  Before leaving NYC, I became very close with Commissioner Safir's nephew Tommy Germano as he began his career with DEA.  I have worked on the staff of many leaders in DEA, and my intuition told me that Howard was a great boss.  His reputation in DEA, the US Marshals Service, FDNY and NYPD will always be remembered as a solid man and a respected leader.  How fitting that he should forever close his eyes on such a solemn day: "Patriot Day".  Commissioner Safir's service to his community and country will never be forgotten.   My condolences to your entire family.

Respectfully,
Mark Hannan, S/A retired
DEA NY:  1987-1992
DEA Chicago:  1992-2001
Nuclear Regulatory Commission:  2004-2011

So very sorry for your loss.  He was a very caring man in a tough job. He showed my family much support at events.. my brother was an NYPD line of duty . He will be missed💙🙏🏻 RIP

I met Howard Safir in 1970 when we both were assigned to DEA HQS.
Later in the 1980's when I was RAC of DEA Greensboro , Howard was very helpful to my office with a sensitive  Witsec matter.

RIP my friend .

Condolences to his family

My wife and I sat with Howard and his wife at an IACP Gala Event in Chicago several years ago. A very personable man.  Our thoughts are with the Safir family.

Barbara and I are heartbroken over the death of our dear friend who we have known for over twenty years. I served under Howard at the NYPD and saw up close and personal his outstanding leadership qualities, his determination and drive to make the NYPD serve the citizens of New York with "Courtesy, Professionalism and Respect", his version of lifesaving CPR for all New Yorkers. After Howard left the NYPD our relationship continued and grew into a decades long friendship with the Safir family. Howard lived life to the fullest and was constantly traveling the world with his beloved Carol at his side. Theirs is a love story for the ages. Our deepest sympathy to Carol, Adam, Jennifer and the entire Safir family.

Our condolences to the family and loved ones. Each are in our thoughts and prayers.  Howard was a dynamic, innovative and tireless man who contributed much to public safety.

Commissioner Safir presenting me with the NYC Police Foundation’s Innovations in Policing Award in 2000.  An award  that he selected me for. 

Thank you Commissioner for all that you did for my family and me!

Howard was an innovative and dedicated Police Commissioner.  He was the perfect choice to lad the NYPD into the 21st century.  He not only encouraged subordinates to think “outside the box” to devise effective crime strategies; but, rewarded them for their efforts.  He showed up in my Unit, The SWAMP, with two bagels the size of car tires stuffed with deli meats and cheeses, salads and sodas to thank us for, in his words, “ A job well done”.   The highest compliment a cop could give another cop is to say he/she is a “good cop”.  Howard Safir was a Good Cop !

Detective Sergeant Bob Lappe, NYPD

Sorry to learn of Commissioner Safir’s passing. He was a true gentleman and excellent Fire and Police Commissioner. He also excelled in his law enforcement positions with the Federal Government.
Commissioner Safir supported his police officers and believed the public had a right to feel safe and protected. He was not ashamed to state that philosophy.
I was a colleague and friend of his late uncle Louis Weiner.
May Howard Safir rest in peace and may his name and memory be for a blessing. My sincere condolences to his family.

E. Harold Schiffer, Retired Detective NYPD 
Retired Acting Chief of Police U S Merchant Marine Academy 2009
Past President Shomrim Society 1983

I can simply say Anne and I are have lost a very dear friend. Howard enriched our lives in countless ways and leaves a void we will never fill. He was a close friend, the kind of friend that is truly irreplaceable in our lives. Memories of the good times we had rush back as we think of him.  We never believed we’d lose him in spite of the numerous brushes when he came close. We celebrate having been fortunate enough to truly know him and share so many good times. He will always live in our hearts.

My deepest condolences. Commissioner Safir was a kind and caring man. He will be greatly missed.

My deepest condolences to the Safir family. I had the privilege to serve under his leadership in the NYPD and walk across the stage to be promoted to Detective 1st grade by him. Rest in eternal peace.

Howard Safir was a gentle giant who led by example.  He exemplified CPR: Courtesy Professionalism and Respect, a motto added to every patrol car and NYPD vehicle during his tenure as Police Commissioner.  But to Howard CPR was more than a motto, it was a way of life. He was tough, and expected the best from his colleagues, but he treated everyone with dignity and respect which elevated any discussion he was part of.  I was proud to work with Commissioner Safir while at City Hall and enjoyed keeping in touch with him and Carol over the years. He will be missed.  My deep condolences to Carol, Jennifer and Adam and his extended family. 
Thank you for your service to your native City and our country Howard.

It is impossible to adequately describe the life of Howard Safir. For so many, he carved out a path to be followed.  To say his life was full would be an understatement. From DEA to the US Marshal's Service to the NYFD and finally the NYPD, Howard personified a life well spent in service to his fellow man. His unique ability to quickly grasp a solution to an often thorny problem, and then boldly, with confidence,  move to solve the issue, was astounding. This unique, brilliant mind more often than nought made a lasting impact on every organization he touched. To this day the US Marshal Service owes him a  enormous debt of gratitude. Howard implemented changes that not only brought the USMS into this century but remain a cornerstone in the foundation of the nations oldest law enforcement organization.
For me personally, he shaped the trajectory I have traveled for most of my adult life. I knew him as a man who loved his family above all else. His devotion to Carol was both loving and unwavering. To his children, Jennifer and Adam, there was nothing more in his life but to see them happy and successful. For my wife and I, we will always hold Howie warmly in our hearts. The path I have traveled and will continue to do so, has been lit by my friend and mentor, Howard.

I worked for Commissioner Safir in the NYPD. He was a good, decent and compassionate person. When he learned that I needed cardiac by-pass surgery, he offered to assist me in getting the best care as well as mentor me through the ordeal. I am forever grateful for his kindness. God Bless Commissioner Safir and his family.

Deepest condolences to the Safir Family on the passing of Howard Safir.  The world has lost an amazing person who brought a presence and perspective that is unparalleled.  It was an honor working with him at the FDNY.  He was direct, demanding, and professional and embodied and expected the best of public service.  He was bold and visionary - He may have only been at FDNY for a few years, his impact was profound.  He initiated technology and communication changes and a top to bottom review and reengineering of all processes.   He stressed interdepartmental communication and the importance of code compliance and inspections.  He was the force behind the merger of FDNY and EMS and was instrumental in securing a new headquarters for the FDNY in Metrotech.  He possessed a keen wit and wry sense of humor and when he was in a room he was an imposing presence.  His devotion to his family and faith were evident and his respect for the FDNY tradition and history were admirable.    I will be forever grateful to have met and worked with him.  Unfortunately, Howard Safir was one of a kind, but I am sure he has and will continue to inspire others to serve with courage and conviction - May he rest in peace.

Rest In Peace Commissioner Howard  Safir🙏🏻
My Deepest Heartfelt Sympathies To The Safir Family
Commissioner Safir , You Were Respected Among NYPD Line Of Duty Families Rest In Heavenly Peace🙏🏻

A lawman. A true leader! And, an even better family man; the truest testament to an existence. Howard will be missed by many!

Rest In Peace Commisioner you were a great leader.

So sad to hear about Commissioner Safir’s passing.   I worked with him during his time in City govt and he was always a caring and compassionate leader.   He helped make NYC a better place and I will always remember him for his efforts on behalf of all New Yorkers.  
Thank you for sharing him with us.

OBITUARY

Howard Safir

24 February, 1942 – 11 September, 2023

John M. Taylor Funeral Home

Show your support

Add a Memory

Share Obituary

Get Reminders

Services