The British Columbia Wildfire Service released this information late Sunday night, July 5, 2015:
We sign off with heavy hearts tonight. We were saddened to learn that a contract tree faller working with us on the Old Sechelt Mine fire suffered a fatal injury while felling a danger tree earlier today. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his friends, family and co-workers.
This is a tragic reminder of the dangerous work being done by personnel across the province to respond to wildfires.
Our sincere condolences go out to the family, friends, and co-workers.
The Old Sechelt Mine Fire has burned 80 hectares (198 acres) since it was discovered July 2 two km northwest of Sechelt.
UPDATE at 7:30 p.m. MT, July 6, 2015: Kelowna Now reports that the coroner has identified the faller as John Joe Phare, age 60, from Roberts Creek.
Thanks and a tip of the hat go out to Mike.
olleen Craig that is true,loss is undueable,it is men and women like the faller that knowingly due jobs like this( policemen ,fireman,fallers,electricians,militay,coast guard ,rescue ect…) they risk all to save all. they do the job not placing blame but you do it out of love of the people and country you cherish and want to protect for the future and present people.. like this person a true hero has been made due to a very sad choice of a person.. we can only hope that we learn from such mistakes… ps i talk from experience as a veteran who was a paramedic with the marines for 9 years. if in the field or the helicopter or hospital you just do what you do by choice and love of what you do.. the response of people make it worthwhile.. and the fallers family will know by the out pouring of love and sorrow from the community how special this father,husband,brother,grandparent was…
You will be missed by us all.
Thank you to your family for sharing him with us. He will always be our hero!!
I have been with the organization for 33 years and this is the first non aviation related fatality in BC.
Condolences to family and friends of deceased and strength to my brothers and sisters on the fire that had to suffer, as well.
Stay sharp. Lots of fire days left before snowfall