It is with deep sadness that the Washington Fire Chiefs announces the passing of Dr. Robert Barnard. Dr. "Bob", 84, served as a firefighter for Thurston County Fire District #9 beginning in 1974 and continued to serve the community in his later years as a fire commissioner. A college professor and fire service safety expert, he was instrumental in the development of the WAC 296-305 Safety Standards for Firefighters as well as several other state-wide training initiatives. Most recently Dr. "Bob" assisted the Washington Fire Chiefs & Washington Fire Commissioners Association in developing model policies to comply with the WAC 296-305. Dr. Bob's knowledge, talents and expertise will be missed by the Washington Fire Chiefs but he leaves a tremendous legacy in the Washington State fire service.
A memorial service will be held in the spring. Information regarding the service will be released as soon as it becomes available.