It is with heavy hearts that we share news with you the passing of USDA Forest Service Assistant Fire Engine Operator Marcus Pacheco, who passed away due to COVID-19 on Sept. 2 after returning home from the Dixie Fire. 

Marcus started his firefighting career working for the California Department of Forestry in 1988 in the small northern California town of Bieber, where he met his wife Gwen. During his time with CAL Fire, he worked at many stations. After trying out a few other jobs, including garbage collector, camp caretaker, highway maintenance for CALTRANS and driving school buses, he started working for the Forest Service in 2001 as a seasonal firefighter and received his permanent appointment in May 2005. 

Marcus was an active member of the Susanville community, particularly in youth-focused organizations including the Girl Scouts, Campfire, Toys for Tots, Susanville Youth Softball, Boy Scouts (he was an Eagle Scout), and the annual Children's Fair. He could often be found at the top of the tall ladders changing the lights for local theater productions, working as security at the Lassen County Fair, or helping serve pancake breakfast at the local Masonic Lodge. He volunteered for several volunteer fire departments including Susan River, Lake Forest and Standish-Litchfield. He was also a 20-year member of the Lassen County Search and Rescue team. Marcus continually worked to improve his skills as a wildland firefighter by getting his EMT certification, his state fire marshal I and II certifications, and attending as many courses and training opportunities as possible.

He leaves behind wife Gwen, his mother, two brothers and three daughters. Our condolences go out to the entire Pacheco family, their friends, and his co-workers and teammates. We’re very grateful for his many years of service to this agency and our nation.

The following is a list of current memorial events to honor Marcus:

• Sept. 18: Private rosary and funeral, which will be streamed live via the Sacred Heart Catholic Church Facebook page.
• Lassen National Forest plans to have a potluck open to employees and Marcus’ family to honor his service when the fire season ends and COVID restrictions allow for gatherings.

Further details will be posted on the memorial blog page as they are finalized.

Letters of condolence may be sent to the family through the Almanor Ranger District at P.O. Box 767, Chester, CA 96020.

In lieu of flowers, please visit the memorial blog for details on family wishes as to how they would like Marcus to be honored.