It is once again with great sadness that we announce the death of a fire service leader, Jerry Riha, a former San Bernardino County Fire employee. Chief Riha passed away in the early morning of February 23 in Montros, Colorado.

Jerry had a rich history with County Fire as well as in the fire service throughout our county.  He rose to the rank of Captain in Fontana while working for the Central Valley Fire District and was active in the union.  He accepted the position of Fire Chief with the Big Bear City Fire Department in the early 1980's and then returned to the County in 1986 as a Division Chief assigned to the Yucca Valley area for the former County Fire Agency.  In 1989, Jerry was promoted to Assistant Chief where he remained until his retirement.  Jerry was active in Kiwanis in Yucca Valley and was also active in community activities in the Lake Havasu area.  Jerry is survived by his loving wife Ruth. The San Bernardino County Fire Department would ask for everyone to continue to hold Ruth, Jerry and their family in your prayers.