Victor Green passed away peacefully on August 19, 2025, after an eight-month battle with Lou Gehrig’s disease (ALS). He was surrounded by his three children, Victor Jr., Erica, and Danielle. In his final months, he found comfort in rebuilding and strengthening his bond with them.

Victor Green was born to Wes and Shirley Green on July 15, 1957, in Arcata, CA, at the old Trinity Hospital on the Humboldt State University campus (now Cal Poly Humboldt).

Victor graduated from Arcata High School, Class of 1977, “Go Tigers!” He served three terms as Student Body President. Victor was born to be a public servant and to serve others.

1980 was a big year for Victor:

• He accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior and was baptized at the Arcata/McKinleyville Seventh-day Adventist Church.
• He married his high school sweetheart, Kristine Anne Heckel.
• He and Kristine welcomed their first child, Victor Green Jr.
• He was elected to the Arcata City Council, where he loved being a public servant to the people of Arcata.

He went on to serve for 10 years on the Arcata City Council, including two years as Mayor. He was proud to be part of the Arcata City Council and Homeless Committee in opening the Arcata House, which helped homeless women with children get a new start. This was where his heart was, helping those in need in a meaningful way.

Victor and Kristine went on to welcome two beautiful daughters, Erica and Danielle. Together with their son Victor Jr., they raised three children whom Victor was very proud to see grow into successful and accomplished adults.

After his service to the City of Arcata, Victor and his young family began a new adventure by moving to Crescent City. Victor applied to work for the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation and was accepted into the academy in Galt, near Sacramento, to become a Correctional Officer. After graduation, he was assigned to Blythe, CA, in Southern California, where he helped open the new Ironwood State Prison.

Victor always tried to make a difference for his fellow officers and to encourage inmates to better their lives and turn away from crime. He loved the people of Blythe, as the community reminded him of the down-to-earth people of Humboldt County.

Victor was active in the community as well. He volunteered for the American Cancer Society, contributing to the annual fundraiser by selling more than 500 daffodil bouquets with vases each year, delivering every one personally in February to the employees and officers at Ironwood State Prison.

Victor and Kristine’s children completed their middle and high school education in Blythe.

Victor loved to travel. In 1999, he and Kristine took their family on a tour of Europe. “What a trip that was. What an education for the entire family.” He also toured China and Hong Kong, fulfilling a lifelong goal to see the Great Wall and thousands of years of history.

Victor advanced in his career to become a Correctional Sergeant, finishing his career with 20 years of service.

Victor often remembered that after working many 16-hour days back-to-back, his famous words to coworkers were, “Think positive and pump it up!” He added, “Throughout my struggle, I am staying true to my word. I am staying positive and upbeat.”

Later, Victor worked at In-N-Out Burger as a host for five years. He was made for the job, taking pride in keeping the restaurant spotless and making hundreds of friends. He loved his customers and his fellow employees. His famous saying at In-N-Out was, “Let’s get this party started!”

Beyond keeping the place welcoming, Victor was a mentor to many of the young people he worked alongside. He taught them the value of hard work, kindness, and respect for others. For many, his encouragement and example left a lasting impression that shaped how they approached both work and life. In these last years, Victor found joy in giving back to his community in such a personal and meaningful way.

Victor is survived by his loving children: Victor Green Jr. (Veronica), Erica Green (Brian Cestone), and Danielle (Dr. Frank Kuwamura). He is also survived by six grandchildren, in order by age: Aubrey Green, Hunter Green, Aiden Cunningham, Madeline Green, Liam Green, and Grant Green.

He is also survived by his brother, Wes Green Jr. (Teresa), and his loving and kind aunties, Sheri Molander and Marilyn Molander. Nephews: Jason Green and Nick Green, and their children. Cousins: Richard (Diane) Green, Richard (Carmin) Mason, Rich (Jane) Spini, Joyce Spini, Denise Kinsey, Deloris Bell, and Gaylene Dudal; Eric (Lilly) Molander, Dr. Kevin (Karen) Molander, Holly (David) Klopfenstein, and Don Molander, and their children.

Victor said, “Remember all the good memories and laughs. Thank you, all of you, for all those great memories, and we will see you in Heaven! Love, your friend, Victor Green.

Service information:

Friday, September 12th, 2025 at 2 p.m.
Seventh-Day Adventist Church 1200 Central Ave, McKinleyville, CA 95519

Dress: Come dressed as you like — casual, formal, or Hawaiian. Victor Raymond Green Sr. wants you to come as you please.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Arcata House for the Homeless in the name of Victor Green.

Reception:

Azalea Hall
1608 Pickett Rd,
McKinleyville, CA 95519