SACRAMENTO – Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr. today issued the follwing statement regarding the death of California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) Battalion Chief Rob Van Wormer:
“It is with great sadness that Anne and I learned CAL FIRE Battalion Chief Rob Van Wormer has passed away. We extend our deepest condolences to Rob’s family, friends and everyone at CAL FIRE during this difficult time.”
Chief Van Wormer, 47, of Jamestown, was pronounced dead at Dominican Hospital in Santa Cruz Saturday night after losing consciousness while assigned to an investigation in Santa Cruz County. He was a 24-year veteran of CAL FIRE. Chief Van Wormer is survived by his parents Sharon and Ken, both of Alpine; wife, Jennifer Van Wormer; and sons Austin and Dalton. Rob is also survived by his brother Kirk, of Petaluma, who is a chief officer with CAL FIRE; and sister Debbie Van Wormer of Alpine.
In honor of Chief Van Wormer, Capitol flags will be flown at half-staff.