It is with tremendous sadness the Central Saanich Fire Department mourns the loss of Assistant Fire Chief Forrest Owens. Forrest was known and loved by many. He was a leader, a brother and a mentor; above all else, he was a proud husband, father and grandfather. He passed away on July 21, 2022, peacefully at home.
Forrest started with the Central Saanich Fire Department in 1986 and put in over 35 years of service to the community. He was a volunteer firefighter, Captain, and career Assistant Fire Chief, and upon retiring from his career position he continued on as an active paid call Assistant Fire Chief.
“Forrest was someone who was always there to help, he was kind, generous and was a rock for our department,” said Deputy Chief Stacey Lee. “He was a true legend in the Fire Service and our community and it’s never been more evident than with the recent outpouring of love for Forrest to his family and our department.”
Forrest was a leader who wore many hats. He advocated for mental health awareness for emergency responders, was pivotal in the training of Central Saanich Fire members, led the community’s prevention and inspection program for many years, and was well respected and liked by all.
“Forrest’s contributions to the community have had a lasting impact,” said Central Saanich Mayor Ryan Windsor. “He will be greatly missed.”
He was well known and respected in the community not only as a firefighter, but also as an avid fisherman, dedicated coach in hockey and lacrosse, and member on several boards and committees.
Service details
The public is invited to join us in celebrating Forrest’s life and career on Sunday, August 14, at 1:00 p.m. at the Saanich Fairgrounds. A procession will arrive at the Fairgrounds at approximately 1:00 p.m.; please note the procession will leave Stelly’s Secondary at noon, and it will be best to arrive to the service by taking West Saanich Road to Stelly’s Cross Road.
Livestream <-click to view the service live at 1:00 p.m. PST on August 14.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The Forrest Owens Memorial Scholarship, c/o the Central Saanich Volunteer Firefighters Association to be established for local youth pursuing a career in firefighting. Donations can be sent by e-transfer to csvffa@gmail.com.
Condolences to the family or the fire department may be sent via email to: fdadmin@csaanich.ca.