Tim Olsen as most of us knew him—Chief, EMT and community member extraordinary. (Photo from Tim Olsen’s Facebook page.)

This morning a Briceland Fire Department member contacted LoCO to confirm that Tim Olsen, the fire chief for that community, had died suddenly yesterday afternoon. “On the behalf of the Briceland Fire Department, we give our condolences to the family and the community,” the member stated.

Olsen has been the fire and Emergency Medical Services Chief at Briceland since 1997. He was also a Command Officer for Shelter Cove Fire Department for twelve years. 

Olsen who would have been 72 on his birthday this August was known for his energetic work for the community. In his capacity as EMT, Olsen attended multiple school sporting events, dances and fundraisers. Olsen’s raspy voice (his throat was affected by a cancer which he beat) was often heard on KMUD explaining fire issues to Southern Humboldt listeners. He was known as a mediator who stayed calm and positive when helping different factions reach understanding.

He gave so much of himself. With his death, this community has lost a leader and a force for good. May all of us take lessons from the Chief’s passion for helping and reach out to honor him by giving a little of ourselves.

Photo provided by community member.

UPDATE 10:06 p.m.: A memorial to Tim Olsen sprung up this morning in front of the Briceland Fire Department. The Chief’s vehicle has been decorated with flowers and the lights are burning for those who want to stop by and remember him.