SACRAMENTO – Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr. today issued the following statement regarding the death of California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) Pilot Jerold “Jerry” Bonner:
“Anne and I were saddened to learn of the death of CAL FIRE Forestry Fire Pilot Jerry Bonner. We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends and coworkers as they deal with their loss.”
Pilot Bonner, 72, of Helendale, was found deceased inside his barracks on Friday while on duty at CAL FIRE’s Alma Helitack Base.
Pilot Bonner served with CAL FIRE as a helicopter pilot for nearly 16 years and was a U.S. Navy veteran.
He is survived by wife Emma Bonner, son Christian Bonner, daughter Liza Weber and son-in-law Darren Weber, granddaughter Maisy Weber, his sister Nancy Bonner-Benson and stepdaughter Billie Herndon, stepsons Kirk Kervin and Anthony Kervin and stepdaughter Jonnie Meinger.
In honor of Pilot Bonner, Capitol flags will be flown at half-staff.