Our beloved friend, BVFD Life Member, and distinguished Fireman Tim Fuentes passed away on March 9th, 2021, leaving so many of us heartbroken and grieving.

Tim joined our fire department family on September 6, 1994.  He was, by all accounts, a genuine Fireman who loved riding and driving our Rescue Squad.  His love for serving others, his dedication to learning, and his robust spirit drew Members to him.  He held the rare and coveted rank of “Technician” based upon his proven skillset.  In 2009, Tim achieved Life Membership, having responded to thousands of emergency calls from our community. Unrelenting chronic injuries kept Tim off of fire apparatus at that point but did not keep him from supporting his Department.  Those who had the privilege of riding with him, learning from him, working the carnivals with him, or simply sharing life with him know just how much the world dimmed when he passed.

Tim was the “real deal” as a fireman and as a family man.  His love for the fire service was undeniable, but it paled in comparison to his unconditional love of his family and extended family.

Many of us enjoyed watching Jared and Hayley grow up during Tim’s service with the BVFD.  He loved his beautiful wife, Barbara, and never missed a chance to share stories of family achievements, events, and shenanigans.  Tim was an exceptional storyteller, which made him an excellent trainer as well.  So many new Members got to learn from Tim’s investment in training and to share his experiences.

I can offer no magical words to soften this blow.  But, I can tell you these things… Tim stood with us as we said “goodbye” too far too many friends over the years.  He suffered too many personal losses, and we tried to always stand by him.  Through it all, he held us close, he hugged us tightly, he flashed that beautiful Tim smile.  He exemplified what it meant to be a fireman and a friend.  He raised a beautiful family.  We are so much better for having shared the past 25+ years with Tim.

Tami Bulla, President

VIDEO TRIBUTE:  Tim Fuentes