Arcata Fire District press release:
The Humboldt County Fire Service lost a great leader, mentor, and Volunteer yesterday with the passing of Arcata Fire District Captain Alan Davis. Captain Davis unexpectedly passed away Saturday night, April 11, at his home in McKinleyville.
A 41 year veteran of the fire service, Alan began his career as a Volunteer in Arcata in 1974 and was hired full time by the District in 1976. He moved on to the City of Milpitas Fire Department in 1981 and retired in 2004. While still employed by Milpitas, Alan returned to the Arcata/McKinleyville area to Volunteer with Arcata. He was promoted to the rank of Fire Captain and had been working as an Acting Battalion Chief to provide leadership and incident command with the personnel of Arcata Fire. Known for his nearly boundless energy and his amazing dedication to the fire service, Alan taught hundreds of recruits from Volunteer Firefighter Academies and was active with the Humboldt County Fire Instructors Association. He gave countless hours to the Arcata Volunteers and also worked closely with the United States Forest Service, Orleans Fire, the County Radio Co-op and many other groups. A vocal advocate for the Volunteer Fire Service, Alan was equally dedicated to the personnel of the International Association of Fire Fighters. He provided tremendous guidance and input to both groups in the Arcata Fire District.
A memorial service is planned for 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 18 at the McKinleyville High School Gym with a reception to follow. Memorial contributions may be made to the Arcata Volunteer Firefighters Association.