With heavy hearts, the LACoFD announces the passing of retired Fire Chief John W. Englund on October 8, 2026, at the age of 95.
Following his service in the U.S. Air Force, Chief Englund joined the LACoFD in 1955. Over a dedicated 33-year career, he rose to become our seventh Fire Chief, serving from 1984 to 1988.
As Fire Chief, he overcame major funding challenges to eliminate all Department debt, paving the way to rebuild seven fire stations and construct two new ones. His forward-thinking leadership funded the 9-1-1 Communications Center, introduced the Department’s first Bell 412 twin-turbine helicopter, chaired the FIRESCOPE Board, and established our Family Support Group.
Chief Englund’s visionary legacy permanently shaped our Department.

Rest Easy Brother. Prayers for his family of red and blood.🙏🏻

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