| This
page is dedicated to the
memory of the firefighters who lost their lives or suffered major
injuries from the Esperanza Fire. If you would like to share your thoughts and feelings with your community here, please e-mail your sentiments to itcfire@towncrier.com. Please note: Messages will be posted on this site until 11 p.m. Any messages that come in after that time will be posted tomorrow morning. I knew Mark many years ago -- he was a blessing to anyone who had the good fortune to know him. I remember his contagious smile, great sense of humor and his love for life. As the smell of smoke is still heavy in the air today, I am reminded of Mark’s dedication to his profession. Right out of high school, he became a US Forest Service Hot Shot. As he studied to become an EMT and took courses in Fire Science, Mark worked hard to become the best firefighter he could be. To Mark’s family, I am so sorry for your loss. Russ and Polly, my thoughts and prayers are with you. I hope that you will find comfort in knowing that Mark brought much joy and happy times to those he touched in his lifetime. Karin Hagin Carey Formerly of Idyllwild Now in San Diego, CA My husband does not fight fires for a living, though he has been known to put out one here and there in the course of his duties as a deputy sheriff. This is to the widows, the children, the parents, the girlfriends and the fiancés who have had the unthinkable happen. Each of us who send our loved ones out knowing that there is a better than average chance that they might not return home in one piece send our prayers and add our tears to yours. It is an honor to love and be loved by these heroic individuals, but when we hear the news of a brother or sister dying in the line of duty we all know that it could have just as easily been our loved one. We say a silent prayer of thanks that it wasn’t and then we cry and pray for those who have been left behind, knowing that the one who is gone is assured a place next to the almighty for having given all to defend their community, our community. Thank you one and all for your willing sacrifices, may we support each other and accept the support of the community when it is offered. My sympathies, Verna Pine Cove My aunt, my cousin, and I would like to express our deepest sympathy to the family of Mark Loutzenhizer and to the people of the town of Idyllwild. Sixty or so years ago my aunt and cousin lived in Idyllwild, and for a short time I lived in Pine Cove. Last year, and again just a couple of weeks ago, we returned to visit. Everyone was so friendly and welcomed us back as if we had been gone only a short time. While we were there, several people asked my aunt what Idyllwild was like sixty years ago. She would tell them it was much like today. The townspeople were close. They endured hardships, but they could always rely on each other. Residents of small towns often describe themselves as "close-knit," but Idyllwild is uniquely so. We are touched by your spirit and your friendship. In this terribly difficult time, we know you will pull together to help the families and to comfort them and each other. May it comfort you to know that our hearts are with you and we share your grief. Sincerely, Betty Harvey-Taylor, Nancy Ferriera, and Beverly Eddy I was so saddened to hear about the loss of such brave & courageous men. Unfortunately there is nothing that can be said to lessen the burden of grief that the families are feeling & will continue to feel for the rest of their lives. My name is Karen Stubbs & I live in Geelong,Victoria, Australia & in Dec 1998 my 17 year old son Matt Armstrong died with four mates who were all volunteer fire-fighters at a bushfire at Linton in nearly the same circumstances. I wanted to let you all know that there are people all over the world who are thinking of them & in some way hopefully that can help them through this horrendous time in their lives. Always in my thoughts Karen Stubbs 12 Collins Street, Geelong West 3218 Victoria. Australia. Our thoughts and prayers are with all the families. Ron and Donna Regan Superintendent Del Rosa Hot Shots - Retired 1997 Dear Maria and Family, Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your children and other family members. We know that the words of strangers can't possibly make up for your tremendous loss but we hope to make it somewhat more bearable to know that we feel for your loss. We don't really know you or Mark personally, but Kyle is in our son Benjamin's class. We did see you and Mark at various sports events for the kids, and just wanted to let you know that your efforts are much appreciated. Mark and you have really made a great difference in the lives of Idyllwild kids. We also want to express our gratitude and respect for all the firefighters who continued to do their job and fight on and protect our communities, in spite of their grief and loss. Mark, Jason, Jess, Daniel, and Pablo lived and died giving to others and doing something they loved. Hopefully, we can remember them in our own daily lives as we take the time to do for others and make our work meaningful. Karin Obermeier, John Goulding, and Benjamin Goulding Our hearts are heavy as we try to comprehend the loss of these brave young men. There are few words that strike fear in a mountain community like "fire." Firefighters hold a special place in such communities. On June 7 we became the recipients of their efforts when our Pinewood home was struck by lightning and burned. First on the scene was Engine 57, followed by units from CDF in Pine Cove and the Idyllwild Fire Department. Although we lost a home, our relief that no one was hurt and that the forest didn't catch fire was palpable. Sadly, this was not the case this time. To the families and friends we offer our deepest sympathy. Penny & Mike Mihaly Pinewood and Vallecito Maria, We are all in shock of the horrible tragedies that befell us that fateful day. It is amazing to see this community bond in such a way. I can't think of a anywhere I'd rather be. We stand beside you and pray for you and your family. I know that your thoughts and memories of this horrific nightmare are overwhelming and I hope that soon your memories will be filled with the love, laughter and joy that you and your children shared with Mark. You are one of the strongest and most determined women I have ever met. My prayers are with you each day. God bless you and your family. Debi Gooch, Idyllwild I had the great pleasure of spending summers in Idyllwild when I was in college in the 1970's. My Aunt and Uncle, Bob and Grayce Curnow were longtime Idyllwild residents. I lived with them, and worked as a waitress for several summers. Idyllwild has always held a very special place in my heart and memory. It is a very unique place filled with wonderful and caring people. I was so saddened to hear about the fire, and the loss of 5 brave Firefighters. I will keep Idyllwild and the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives in my thoughts and prayers. Joan Harpootlian Thomas Walking on a fine line between the passion and the pain. A storm cloud's hanging over I think it's gonna rain. You know I'm not a savoir and I never been a SAINT. I 'M just another witness with a seperate fate, heart of darkness, trouble never ends. Is there any innocence in the hearts of men. Thank you you saved SIMPSON PARK HEMET in the CITRUS FIRE JULY .04 JEFF LITTEN CARETAKER SIMPSON PARK HEMET CA 92544. It was so hard to read about the Esperanza fire and to learn that 4 firefighters were killed as a result. My dad is still a fire captain for CDF in Riverside County and he had been on the fire. I called him as soon as I heard about the deaths. After learning that he and his crew were unharmed, I felt relief and then sorrow for the families who had made a similar call only to learn that their loved one had been killed. This tragedy certainly illuminates just how mortal our heroes are. My deepest sympathies go out to the families who lost their firefighter, their hero. Elizabeth (Petrinovich) Sanford Gilroy, CA Heartfelt sorrow and prayers to our fallen heroes, their families, and all the brave firefighters. Thank you for saving our community. In the rising of the sun and in its going down, we remember you In the blowing of the wind and in the chill of winter, we remember you In the opening of the buds and in the rebirth of spring, we remember you In the rustling of the leaves and the beauty of autumn, we remember you In the beginning of the year and when it ends, we remember you When we have joys we yearn to share, we remember you For as long as we live, you too shall live, for you are now a part of us forever, as we remember you -Anonymous- God Bless, Gloria Esqueda, Idyllwild Our family has been deeply impacted by the loss of these five wonderful men...Especially since Mark coached Dan and Spence many times in basketball and baseball. He was a true hero, the kind of man who takes care of his kids and everyone else's. He was always there, at every game, at every family event. He is much more than a fire hero. He is a human hero. He is one of the irreplaceable ones and he will be missed. Daniel came home that night and said that every kid at school was crying...and then he went to bed at seven o'clock. This community and the entire nation are praying for them and their families. Maria: You will make it. You can do it. Love and prayers, Annie, Kraig, Spencer, Daniel, Lindsay, and Uncle Bill Our hearts break for the families of the fallen firefighters of the tragic Esperanza Fire, and for all of the Idyllwild community. We’ve spent many a fine time in the beautiful village and for awhile we owned a cabin there. You are a special community, and your firefighters are among the best and bravest. Know that from far way our hearts are with you as your endure this tragic and painful time. - Sharen Heath, Langley on Whidbey Island, WA To all of my friends, I have been in complete disbelief for the last few days. Any loss of life is tragic. This one is so much more for me because it has effected so many people that I love and care about. Maria was my coach when I was a little girl. I looked up to her and Janey as any little girl would to two teenage girls that gave me the time of day. Since then I have watched as her life has unfolded and quietly rooted on her children as they have grown. Watching the twins run around the pizza place, Tesha cheering at football games, Jake following in his fathers footsteps and being so proud of Savannah and her athletic abilities that I have been mourning for their loss of such a wonderful father. Maria, I know that you are such a strong woman and I have no doubt that you will overcome this tragic loss with both the grace and strength that I know that you have within you. I know that your children will never wonder how loved they are because your family and friends will just simply not allow that. God please bless our community and watch over us as we all reflect on our past and struggle to make sense of all of this. Please everyone keep in your hearts the men that have had to witness the passing of their friend. They are lost right now. Heather (Thomas) Mello I reside in Michigan but my sister and brother-in-law are Idyllwild residents (Kate/Vic Sirkin). I was just there visiting in the beginning of October, therefore, the beauty of your town and its warm and friendly people are very fresh in my mind. You have such a wonderful place to live and it is so tragic that this fire occurred. There is little that one can do to help a family/person that has lost someone to get over the loss, but I want to simply say to everyone that we in Michigan are keeping you in our thoughts and prayers on a daily basis. Sometimes all a person needs is for another human to simply be there to listen and not solve. Be there for each other. Your Michigan connection wishes everyone a healthy recovery from this travesty. If we can do anything for you please let us know. Sincerest wishes for a speedy and full recovery, Jim Angelillo I had the privilege of working beside Mark and Jess in my years with the San Jacinto Ranger district, and their loss, as well as their crew mates, has touched me more deeply than I was aware possible. Neither of these men would have considered themselves "heros", a word I see often in these musings; they were doing a job they loved and were good at. But the underlying, unspoken job qualification of possibly of laying down your life for the job brings the word hero back from the overused and trite to a completely inadequate description of these men. When the pain of their loss diminishes, I know for me it will be replaced with immense pride at being able to say "I worked with heroes". Perry Hewitt, Forest Protection Officer/Captain (ret) Maria, We are so sorry for the loss . Mark was a great man and good friend to Idyllwild . He will be missed. we are all here for you.I still need you to hold something as i run and only you could understand that one. We are here if you need us. The Vladikas Wow, reading the Town Crier comments makes you realize how many lives Mark and this town have touched. I often poke fun at my one year residency in Idyllwild in 1981 (a huge contrast from Chicago)…but the truth is, that single year was one of the best of my life. It changed “my path” at 15yrs old. I made friends in that one year that remain my closest. I’ve had family there for 25 years (Sundling/Stead/Beagle). When I visit, I feel a sense of peace. Idyllwild is an old-fashioned town where people still take the time to wave hello and “everybody knows your name”….a rarity in today’s world. I send my condolences to a dear friend who loved Mark in her youth, because young love is powerful and holds a special place in our hearts…. to Mark’s wife, family and the entire town - because Mark IS Idyllwild. It’s not the pine trees or the lack of traffic lights, but people like Mark that create the heart and soul of Idyllwild. I’m thankful to Mark for making Idyllwild special and I’m proud to have known him. May this close-knit community comfort each other and Mark’s spirit always be part of “the hill”. Stacey (Sundling) Field (Pine Cove) / Carlsbad CA To Maria and your family, and Russ and Polly and your family, you have our deepest sympathy at this time. We remember Mark as the smiling High School boy that spent many hours in our home with our son David as I'm sure David spent many hours in Russ and Polly's home. To the families of the other crew members of Engine 57 you also have our deepest sympathy. As a retired Engineer/Paramedic of IFD I feel a special bond with all of the fire service personnel on the hill. Our thoughts are with you. Grace & Larry Kent Las Vegas, Nv Hello...I live in San Clemente, where the cool ocean air lulls us to sleep each night. Last week, as the smoke filled our skies, I wondered what it must be like where you are. When I heard of the horror of the fire and the loss of life, I sat and cried...for people I do not know, for homes lost, for lives so brutally changed. For those whose lives will never be the same, I pray for peace and hope for you. To those who fought and are still fighting the fire, may you be blessed with thanks forever. Denise Gee San Clemente After already expressing my thoughts as to the heroism of the firefighters I want to say thanks to eveyone who fought the fire. To all the people who put their lives on line against the terrible flames, thank you. I recognize what a sacrifice you all make when you put on your gear and go forth against terrible odds to save both people and property. The saddest thing is to recognize that someone or sometwo people could start a fire that causes both death and destruction. These people should be drawn and quartered in front of the citizenry at large. Let the children see exactly what becomes these "terrorists" and let them know the fate that awaits if they follow in their footsteps. Harsh as it may seem, our society with all it's liberals, secular humanists, alleged do-gooders, people having their own guilt for some reason or another, must realize that if we cannot stand together and try to make a better world for those we love then we are lost and nothing but merely animals spending time on this dying planet. God bless and keep the fire fighters. God damn to hell the others. Hodge Crabtree, Idyllwild and San Diego FIREMEN-AMERICA'S HERO'S I am a part time resident in the Idyllwild community and found myself feeling helpless when I was off the hill when the fire broke out unable to return home. I was glued to the TV whenever the news stations reported the Esparanza fire. It was with great sadness to discover the fallen firemen from the community where I live.Idyllwild is where I find great peace and tranquility thanks to the watchful eyes of the Fire Department. I am a registered nurse having much experience dealing with traumatic events. I just happened to help the injured when the World Trade Center fell on 9/11 and therefore I feel I have a greater appreciation. What I mean is to live life to the fullest. I discovered a seminar, call Landmark Forum which I attended which totally helps me view life the way I do and have a greater appreciation for live. Every day I now make a promise to myself to live my life with peace and tranquility. Landmark Education is providing a scholarship for any firemen(or policeman) that would like to attend the seminar at no charge. Please call me for more information. The seminar gave me an ability to share an"Abundance of Love". It helped me to heal even during the most devastating of events. Tracy Eriks Idyllwild/Oxnard (951)990-8827 For Lynn “Greatest act of kindness” When you "give" try not to turn it into a promo. Just do it quietly. This is not about you. Count the number of times you wrote "I". Jessie Ann Chesnut We have established collection sites in our two stores in Idyllwild for the fire victims families, at Idyllwild Pet Food and at Idyllwild T-Shirt Shop. We donated dozens of "Firemen-America's Heros" and other firefighting T-Shirts to the Idyllwild Fire Station and the Forest Service Station in Idyllwild. We are providing FREE Halloween T-Shirts for the children of ALL firefighters anywhere in Riverside county through Halloween, and also FREE pet treats for firefighters' pets. We want to help try to make Halloween a safe & happy time for all of our children, especially those of our beloved firefighters! The greatest act of kindness I've witnessed was yesterday when I went to Walmart. I had overheard one of the firefighters say they could really use some Gatorade! I went down to the Walmart in Hemet to buy Gatorade for our local firefighters, and I asked the store manager if they would like to donate some Gatorade. Walmart in Hemet did donate 12 cases of Gatorade, for our local firefighters! I bought 6 more cases, and my daughter Heather (the groomer at our Idyllwild Pet Grooming) and I spent the day distributing cases of free Gatorade to the Fire Stations and Forest Service Stations from the bottom of the hill on hwy 74 to Pine Cove, Idyllwild, and Garner Valley. I just wanted to help in any way I could. All of the firefighters were very grateful! To the victims families: I am heartbroken over your loss! I knew some of the brave firefighters only briefly as some had visited my stores, but their loss has devastated me! Yesterday while distributing the Gatorade, I spent most of the day in tears! I'm determined to try to help you as well by putting the collection sites in both my stores. I know that's not much consolation for all you've been through, but I'm trying to help! Please know the entire Idyllwild and surrounding communities are very affected by this huge loss of our firefighting heros! I know we'll all do what we can to help you! If you need specific help, please contact us and let us know what we can do to help! Sincerely, Lynn Baker Idyllwild Pet Food Idyllwild Pet Grooming Idyllwild T-Shirt Shop (951) 655-0300 cell This is to the widows, the children, the parents, the girlfriends and the fiancés who have had the unthinkable happen. My husband does not fight fires for a living, though he has been known to put out one here and there in the course of his duties as a deputy sheriff. Each of us who send our loved ones out knowing that there is a better than average chance that they might not return home in one piece send our prayers and add our tears to yours. It is an honor to love and be loved by these heroic individuals, but when we hear the news of a brother or sister dying in the line of duty we all know that it could have just as easily been our loved one. We say a silent prayer of thanks that it wasn’t and then we cry and pray for those who have been left behind, knowing that the one who is gone is assured a place next to the almighty for having given all to defend their community, our community. Thank you one and all for your willing sacrifices, may we support each other and accept the support of the community when it is offered. My sympathies, Verna Pine Cove During the 14 months the Blessings! shop was open on Village Lane, we became very close to the families in the community. Our hearts are grieved for the loss of our local firemen, and we are praying for God's comfort and provision for their families. We are praying for the protection of the firefighters, the civilians, and the homes that are in the path of this destructive fire. In Christ's love, Karen Coke Debbi Saunders Our family sends healing prayers to the families of all those effected by these tragic events. We pray for the healing that God alone is able to provide for Pablo and of strength for his wonderful familia. Lord we know that we are not worthy that you should come into our home. Only say the word and he shall be healed.In the Holy name of Jesus, we pray. Tom, Jessie Ann, Erik, Kristen and Emanuel Chesnut Idyllwild/La Quinta When I saw Mark's picture in the LA Times I remembered his face from an important moment in my life. In April of 1999, my wife, Bunny, had a heart attack at our home in Idyllwild. Within five minutes of my call to the Idyllwild Fire department Mark and his crew arrived. They insisted she be transported to the Hemet hospital. She didn't want to go. But they took her; she went into cardiac arrest on the way down the mountain. She was resuscitated and arrived at the hospital in time to be treated. Had it not been for Mark and his crew, she would have died that day. Men like Mark are a special gift and of immeasurable value to the people on the Hill. I shall always remember that day and Mark and his men. May God bless them all and their grieving families. Carl Verheyen 32592 Balearic Rd. Dana Point, Ca 92629 I knew Mark many years ago -- he was a blessing to anyone who had the good fortune to know him. I remember his contagious smile, great sense of humor and his love for life. As the smell of smoke is still heavy in the air today, I am reminded of Mark’s dedication to his profession. Right out of high school, he became a US Forest Service Hot Shot. As he studied to become an EMT and took courses in Fire Science, Mark worked hard to become the best firefighter he could be. To Mark’s family, I am so sorry for your loss. Russ and Polly, my thoughts and prayers are with you. I hope that you will find comfort in knowing that Mark brought much joy and happy times to those he touched in his lifetime. Karin Hagin Carey Formerly of Idyllwild Now in San Diego, CA I've tried nearly a half a dozen times to write, but nothing I can write will reflect accurately of how I feel . The "Hill" is in our prayers and our hearts. I've posted a tribute to the crew of E57 and to all the other firefighters on YouTube. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3GCKzzFhNdY God Bless, Rick Our family sends healing prayers to the families of all those effected by these Maria, Jake, Tesha, Savannah, Kyle, Seth: We have only been members of the Idyllwild community for four months, but have felt As part-time residents in Idyllwild, we send our deepest sympathy and heartfelt prayers to the families of the fallen firefighters at this time. May God Bless them and protect those still in harms way. The Travis Family Idyllwild/San Diego Thank you organizers of Banning's political debates, regional football games, the Blast to The Past, and the Library Book Sale. Rescheduling these events speaks for and to the entire community. Jeff Smith To the surviving families of the 4 brave Firefighters who paid the ultimate price...My deepest condolences to all of you on your tremendous loss-they were doing what they loved and were trained to do-protect the property and surroundings of others. My husband is a retired Captain from the MontebelloF.D. here in So. Cal. having served 33 years-I know the anguish the families feel not kowing what situation they are getting into in a bad structure fire or brush fire. We lost the best man at our wedding (42 years ago) when he was killed in a lumberyard fire in Montebello (the only in-the-line of-duty death in the Department's history. ) That was in 1975 and is still as vivid today as it was then. I hope all our prayers and care and concern can ease your pain a little bit. To the family of firefighter Cerda-have strength and faith that God's will be done and he is sedated enough not to fee the tremendous pain. Be strong for each other and for him. Your have a lovely community-I went to Girl Scout camp at Azalea Trails when I was 10 years old and the area is heavenly. Idyllwild prepared your 4 brave men for a little bit of heaven before the finally reached the real place. Sincerely, Kathie Martin Whittier, California To the families and friends of the brave firefighters of Engine 57 - Please know our hearts are filled with great sadness over the loss of these courageous, honorable men. They died as heroes and we will never forget this. We pray for Pedro's full recovery. To the firefighting community - We are continually grateful for the courageous work you do to save lives and property on a daily basis. We are proud to know and call many of you friends. We pray for your safety in your fight against this and all fires. To Maria, The Loutzenhiser Children, and the entire Loutzenhiser Family - We give our deepest sympathy to you all for your terrible loss. We hope it will help you in this difficult time to know you have the community's love and support. Please know you can count on us as well, now and in the future. You are in our hearts and prayers. Love, Brad, Saffron and Wesley Partridge Pine Cove To the Loutzenhiser family, our thoughts and prayers are with you all. We lived in your wonderful community 1971-1980 and remember a young Mark and have watched from Tucson over the years as he became such a dedicated leader in the community. Russ, Polly, Howard and Cheryl, we are so sorry for your loss. We will always remember our time in Idyllwild as we felt so privileged to be there because of people like your family. Your community is such a special place and the support you have will hopefully help to ease the pain of your loss. Rich & Rene Dulaney Tucson, Arizona To the families of the heroes-My heart just aches for all of you. I am a firefighter's wife from Wilton, ND. My husband was seriously injured in a wildland fire in April of 2005. We had 3 guys from our dept. get injured. I think this tragic accident has stirred up a lot of emotion for us. I am certain that your community will surround you as you grieve. Rely on those people to take care of you and love you. Please don't hesitate to ask for help. God will always be with you as you continue on without your loved ones. Know that the firefighting community all over the country is grieving with you and is praying for you every day. Kirsten Olson Wilton, ND To Maria, the entire Loutzenhiser Family, and the families of Jess, Jason, Daniel, and Pablo, Please know that each of you and your families are in my thoughts and prayers. I was so saddened and sickened at the same time to hear about this tragedy. I grew up in Idyllwild and miss the tiny community where I spent my childhood. I know that at this time, Idyllwild will band together and provide strength to the entire Loutzenhiser family as well as the other firefighters families. I grew up in a CDF family and know first hand how devoted firefighters are to their jobs. These men are truly heroes and I thank them and all firefighters for the job they do each and every day to save lives. I have great memories of Maria coaching my softball team, working with Polly at Jan's, Russ making me smile when we went to get gas at the Chevron station, and Mike helping with the construction on our house. I didn't know Mark very well, but remember him from around town and seeing him at Jan's and he always seemed to have a smile on his face. I will continue to keep each and every one of you in my prayers and pray for Pablo's recovery. Sincerely, Erin (Calkins) Fleck Aurora, Colorado To the wives of Mark & Jess, Having only known you through the volleyball league, I am praying that God will hold you in His arms, comfort you in your sorrow and carry you thru the pain. I hope to hear your laughter on the court in the future. Each one of us is weaving a tapestry of our lives unique to us and hopefully you will be able to view their lives as such; rich and royal in color and honor. My prayers are with your extended families too. Penny Bottomly To Maria and family, I am devastated to hear about Mark. His bravery showed in every step he took when responding to this tragedy. May the angels be with you and your family. My hand are held out to help in any way that might be needed. Respectfully, Lori Swenck, Past Town Hall Director Dear Loutzenhizer Family, I'm very sorry for your loss. Mark showed true bravery when protecting our families, and our community. My family and I are more than proud of Mark. To put his life on the line and be thinking of others before himself in a time of danger and tragedy truly shows how much character and values Mark showed. That definition right there truly shows the great mark of a man. Mark is a great man and always will be. We will always remember Mark, and his legacy that will always live on in our hearts. Our prayers and help are with you, Nick Graham Idyllwild, CA Dear Maria, Jake, Tesha, Savannah, Seth, and Kyle, I know that saying "I'm sorry" isn't enough. I also know that going on about how great a man Mark was isn't much help either. Everyone in the town is feeling the loss, but not as hard as you are. However, Idyllwild is a very tight-knit community and everyone here will provide all the help they can for you. It doesn't seem it, but things will eventually look up. Stay strong. Michael Drell Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families of the firefighters who lost their lives and to the one survivor. Gary and Debbie Martin Maria, Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family and are very sorry for your loss. We found some words of encouragement for you that will remind you in many different ways that Mark will always be with you. Kelly Hardy-Wills and family The Messenger Weep not for me now that I have passed. Remember the laughter, the affection, the joy not just the recent tears. Cherish the memories, our hopes and dreams. Hold fast to the love that we shared. Be happy with the time we spent together and being anew. For I am not really gone, I am closer than ever before. As the morning sun rises and throughout the busy day...I am with you. Until the setting sun disappears on the horizon and we watch the day turn into night...I am here. You may feel a faint breeze stir round your head,while you slumber as I gently kiss your forehead, "Good night." The stars that shine so brightly in my heavenly sky help me watch over you and keep you from harm. I am the wind in the trees and the song of a bird. I am moonbeams in a midnight sky and a glorious rainbow after the storm I am morning dew and freshly-fallen snow. I am a butterfly flying over head and a puppy happily at play. I am a smile on a stranger's face a gentle touch a warm embrace. Listen to the wind for my message of love. Watch the sun rise and set in the sky with me. feel my essence encircle you with warm memories. Open your heart to know...I am not gone. Reach deep into your soul...You will find me. I am here. Have no fear. I am with you, Always. Kirsti (Angel Scribe) We want to express our gratitude, honor and respect for the men and women that put themselves in harm's way to serve and protect their communities. Our thoughts and prayers are with the friends, families and loved ones of all the brave souls that are fighting this fire. Words cannot express our saddness about the firefighters that have been lost and injured. We are honored to be part of the IDY community as we do our best to help their families at this difficult time. God Bless —Dawn and Dan Papaila IDY / San Diego To the Firefighter's that lost their lives. . . "Bravery's honor is yours!" We have no words to convey our deepest condolences to the families, —Shari and Jim Donoho Community of Hope, Love, and Volunteer Spirit That is how I always describe this community to our family and friends when they asked why we moved here. You can feel and see this spirit everyday in the eyes of members of the Idyllwild mountain communities. To the Loutzenhizer, McLean, McKay, and Hoover-Najera families, your loss and sacrifice will not be forgotten. To the Cerda family, we pray for the recovery and health of Pablo. Firefighters and Forest Service workers are our sometimes forgotten heroes. They work tirelessly, devoted to a passion that often goes unseen until tragedy strikes. However, I know that these lost souls will never be forgotten in the hearts and minds of this community. Our deepest sympathy, Tamon & Vic Bennett-Natoli Maria, My thoughts, prayers and deepest sympathy are with you and your family at this toughest time in your life. May god give you the strength to get through this tough time and may he be there for you and your family. I lived in Idyllwild from 1982 - 1985 and hung out with your brother Pasqual and I dont know if you remember me or not but I do remember you and Mark and I remember how sweet you both were and what beautiful people you both were!! I am so sorry for your loss, there are no words anyone can say to ease your pain one ounce!! But please know that we are all praying for you and love your family!! If you or your family need ANYTHING at all please feel free to email me at jerinboys@yahoo.com and I will try my best to be there for you guys. My 2 sisters are Wanda Bernardy (Williams) and Colleen Winslow (Wheelus) maybe you will recognize me by their names. Well, May god be with you and your family and may he bless you with all the strength you may need at this time. Our Love to you ALL!!! —Jeri Hensley (Wheelus) I want to say how so sorry I am to the families of the four firefighters. I know how hard these guys work, as I have one living on my street. I think these guys have the worse job there is but we need them. If it weren't for them who would we depend on. These guys are great (all of them). — Mona Fiat Romoland Here in Texas, I feel guilty, sitting all snug in my house with no danger lurking. I heard about the fire on national radio; when I heard the voice of Pat Boss, I thought to myself, "That must be near Idyllwild." I have been watching and listening; my heart goes out to the families of the firefighters, both those who have been lost and those who are still working the fire. Please know, Idyllwilders, that nationwide, folks are thinking of and praying for you! —Gretchen King Atlanta, Texas To the courageous fire fighters whose lives are still on the line and to the heroic fire fighters who lost their lives protecting us, your bravery and ultimate sacrifice will last forever in our memories. My deepest gratitude goes to all fire fighting personnel and my heartfelt condolences go to the families of the Alandale 5. —JC/Idyllwild To the families of the fallen firefighters, Most people will never have to suffer the horrific nightmare of losing a loved one in a fire. Your friends and families will be grieving with you, but can never truly understand the depth of your despair. Four years ago this week, my husband died in a fiery crash caused by a drunk driver, and I wanted to tell you that I do understand how especially difficult it is, especially when your lives will be forever changed by a person/persons with no respect for the law or human life. I also want to tell you now much I appreciate the dedication and sacrifice of these heros, who time after time, put their own lives in jeopardy to protect the people and property of the mountain communities. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you, and I know that the special people who live on this mountain will be with you and support you as they did for me. With my condolences, —De Eskew Pine Cove, CA "THE MORNING OF TEARS" May Our Hero's Rest In Peace and God Watch Over There Families. I will never forget the morning of Oct. 26Th. as I drove past 23's in Pine Cove on Hwy 243 at around 5:40 AM I thought how odd that the whole station was as bright as day. I had a bad feeling inside. I proceed to drive down the 243 still dark out and not a smell of smoke no sight of what laid a head of me. Shortly after passing 57's I came around a curve to a very horrifying wall of fire. Screaming, crying and shaking out of control I got to a safe spot and bawled my eyes out. I've seen fire but nothing as powerful as this. I called my Boyfriend a Firefighter of 16 Yrs. he was on duty at the time I was so scared and upset he was trying to calm me down. I turned my car around and headed back up. I almost stopped when I drove by 57's I saw everyone standing outside on the slope. I knew they could not see the flames from where they were. I wanted to tell them I knew I would only bawl my eyes out. I cried all the way down the other side of the mountain. Several of the Forest Service stayed at my place Forest Lodge over the summer planning on the clearing of the trees. My heart goes out to your loss. Please keep everyone safe who still is on the line of duty. —Tanya Steele Mark Loutzenhizer was one of the greatest people I had ever met. He was my volleyball coach, and he had just gotten finished teaching me my over hand serve. It was only two days later the tradety happened. Today, Friday, my school was filled with grief, and everyone who knew him was not afraid to share their feelings and cry. I wore my volleyball jersey to honor him, and all day people were in and out of the art room getting counceling. I drew a great picture of him to put on a poster full of glitter and life. Just because he is dead in our eyes, doesn't mean he has to be dead in our hearts. We were truly blessed by his presence, and I'm so thankful to have known someone as wonderful as him. There is so much more to say about Mark, but I'll end with this: Mark: A Father A Coach A Friend A HERO. —Katie P. 7th grade student and volleyball player. We may not know what happened that day, We can only fall- to our knees and pray. We know that the Father works for good, And we know we would change this- if only we could. But four brave men were lost in the flames, and we seek the arsonist, that we hold to blame. They were doing in life what they loved to do, they fought to save homes- for me and you. Now, they are gone, one day a distant memory, but their families will grieve, for what will seem- eternity. We walk today with heaviness in our hearts, we seek to find the words, and hardly know where to start. We will hold them up to our Fathers loving care, and pray that the families know the grief- we all share. In loving memory, with a grateful heart, —Lorene D. Perez, San Marcos, CA We have known Mark for many years, I joined the Idyllwild Fire Dept. in 1975 and eventually met most of Loutzenhiser family. Our heart felt sympathy is with Russ, Polley, Cheryl, Howard, Maria, Mike and Beth. Remember Mark was doing what he desired to do, you all know that, lest it be me to tell you that. I'm sure he loved it just as I did for 23 years. Mark was a great kid, Scott our son who graduated from high school with Mark says the same thing about him. We have contacted the Kent's and they have tried to contact David, their son, who was Mark's best friend in years past. We moved off the hill when I retired from IFD in 1988 and have only been back 2 or 3 times, the last this past May while on vacation going to Texas to see our older son Brett and the great-grand kids there. Brett use to work with Russ at the Standard Station in Idyllwild when Howard owned it. Our best to all there and we hope the fire does not get up to Idyllwild. —Jerry and Sandy Miller, formerly of Idyllwild now in Medford, Oregon Dear Friends, God Bless our Mountain Hero's 5 and their families. —Darcy and Dennis Gerdes On behalf of the Firefighters both Career and Volunteer of Essex County, New Jersey, I would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the Families of these brave men. Firefighters are often called the BRAVEST and there is a reason for that. I believe that these men showed why. May God Bless Them, Their Families and Their Brother/Sisters Firefighters who are still waging the Battle. Sincerely, —John D'Ascensio Essex County Fire Coordinator (Mutual Aid) New Jersey Maria, all of our condolences go out to you and your family. We will continue to pray over you and your children. —Liz, Chris, and Blaze MAY THE LORD WELCOME THESE TRUE HEROES INTO HIS ARMS AND WATCH OVER ALL FIREFIGHTERS AND THERE LOVED ONES. —D. MACEK FALLBROOK. CA As a member of a rural, forested county in extreme northern California, I understand what fire fighters mean to a community. They save our homes, our lands and our towns and our livelihoods. They come from all over the nation to work to save lives and homes in places they'd never even heard of till the fire brought them there. They are men and women who work in harms way to preserve other's lives, homes and land. They wear many different uniforms as fire fighters and I for one never care what agency's name is on their shoulder or caps. They are to be treated with admiration and respect at all times. They are true saviors and heroes. May the families, friends and fire community bear their grief as best they can. May you know you are not alone. —JoAnn Michael 6536 Pine Lane Weed, CA 96094 jomike@cot.net I would like your community to know that people everywhere -- including me, way across the country -- will be holding you in their thoughts and sending prayers your way as this horrific injustice continues to unfold. I saw the once-bright, joyful faces of the deceased on NBC this evening and had to write with love and compassion for your impossible losses. May this little note help support you at this awful time. You are not alone. —Betsy Shea-Taylor, Providence, RI Hi Friends, I live in Minnesota but attended a concert at the Soboba Casino in September. I asked the person at the front desk of my hotel what would be an easy day drive around the area and still get back in time that evening for the concert. He said you must drive up to Idyllwild! I did and then drove over to Banning and back down to Hemet for the concert. I thought while I was driving how beautiful the entire area was! I feel so bad about what has happened since this fire might have been set on purpose! Let everyone know that there are a lot of people thinking about them! —ljk89us@hotmail.com One year ago, my family and I sought refuge in Idyllwild after suffering the devistating loss of losing our home, incomes and majority of our pets in a fire near Canyon Lake. Today it hits home so heavily as we watch and pray for all the brave firefighters and those suffering loss. We know how you feel and we want you to know we share and will be bearing your burdens. We are so touched because we know, we have been there. Our prayers are with you. Our LORD is a good GOD. We believe that this group of men who have been starting these fires in the past weeks near casinos will be caught and brought out in the light to justice. May GOD comfort those that layed their lives down. and saved all those people. It was much more than just "doing their job" It means more than that. Jesus said it long ago better than we ever could. Greater love has no man than this then He lays down his life for a friend. May the LORD richly bless you and bring a might restoration for all. —The Houck Family I was district ranger on the San Jacinto district in the late 1970s. Idyllwild and the people there have remained special in our hearts. I liked and respected Russ and Polly so much and grieve for their loss. I always had great admiration for the firefighters. During my time there, Marty Barrows, Kirby More, Josh Whitney, Mike Calvin, and so many others taught me a lot about fire and I have thought of them often. Now my thoughts are with the families of Mark and the other firefighters during this difficult time. —Danny Britt USFS, Retired Tennessee I just found out about the loss of Captain Mark Loutzenhizer, I worked with his Mom at Jan's Red Kettle for four years and he married my best friend's sister, Maria. I grew up very close to the Gonzalez Family. I feel so bad for Mark's family, I send them lots of prayers. About a month ago, my pregnant sister, Pine Cove resident, Claudia Posey, was being driven down the mountain by her husband when she felt the baby coming! There was not time to go back to the Firestation and there was no pull out, so as she stood by the guardrail on VERY dangerous Hwy. 243, with blind curves and speeding cars, while my brother-in-law stayed with their two other very upset small children in their car, two kind firefighters saw them and stopped. One directed traffic safely away, and the other ran right up to my sister with big wide eyes, he had never delivered a baby before. There on the side of the highway, he delivered my baby nephew, now one month old, healthy and always smiling. As my sister drove away in the ambulence she turned back to see this young man, so messy from the birth and roadside gravel, with a HUGE smile on his face, giving the "thumbs up" to his crew member....This firefighters name was Jason McKay, My family would like to tell his family how much we appreciated Jason being there for my sister. How much his life, his acts of bravery and fearlessness on the job were not in vain. How his death affected so many, it was not just a story on the television. These guys making a real statement about what it means to be a true hero in every sense of the word. I am so sorry this happened and I would like to tell all their families this. We are all very grateful and please know, we are sad and grieving with you. You have our love and support. Fondly, —Bonnie (Beagle) Morris Desert Hot Springs To Families of Engine Crew 57: My deepest sympathy goes to the families of this crew. Prayers and thoughts go to you and the community from the Forest Service Fire community. May God continue to be with the families of the crew in this dark hour. Luke C. Fortner Engine Foreman Douglas R.D. 2250 E. Richards Douglas, WY 82633 307-358-1637/358-1640 lfortner@fs.fed.us Dear Becky, Town Crier Staff, San Jacinto Ranger District, and Idyllwild Community, My prayers and thoughts are with you as you grieve the loss of Mark from your midst. Mark contributed so much richness to the shape and form and essence of the Idyllwild community. Even though I have been away for almost 10 years, I feel great emptinesses as I think of Idyllwild, the recreation community, the fire suppression community, families, and lives without him. He never set out to be important; he just walked and worked and played and lived; and became so very much to so many, so much to us all. Yes, my prayers and thoughts are with you. May you comfort and cherish and treasure each other all the more as you think of Mark. With longing that Mark still be among you, and with love —Jeannie Petrinovich I am sorry just is not just not enough. My mother and I would like to send our condolences to the families of the lost firefighters. Our prayers go out to all the firefighters still on the line and to their families. I have a good freind that is out on the line I pray for his safety and for all. —Dennis and Pat Warner Manhattan Beach, Ca and Pine Cove, CA To the families of the" Bravest of the Brave" As a wife of a Fallen Firefighter, I feel your pain. He also was an Engineer and would go on the Strike Teams to fires regardless where they were, to help and do what he could do. There are no words that could make anyone feel better. JUST REMEMBER THAT YOU HAVE A FIRE FIGHTER FAMILY WHO LOVE YOU ALL AND WILL BE THERE FOR YOU. Much Love to all the men that are out there. —Rosemary Reed Vacaville Fire Protection District Vacaville California Our family salutes the men who have fallen and those who can continue to protect our communities. Meanwhile, to those who have been touched by this tragedy, I offer ``A Fireman's Prayer,'' author unkown. —Best, Mark Sims, cabin in Pinewood; full-time home in Simi Valley, California. A Fireman's Prayer When I am called to duty, God, Whenever flames may rage; Give me strength to save some life, Whatever be its age. Help me embrace a little child Before it is too late Or save an older person From the horror of that fate. Enable me to be alert And hear the weakest shout, And quickly and efficiently To put the fire out. I want to fill my calling And to give the best in me To guard my every neighbor And protect his property. And if, according to my fate, I am to lose my life, Please bless with your protecting My children and my wife. — Author Unknown My God, what a tragedy. Our heartfelt thanks go to the familes of the fallen and all other fire personnel that are waging battle. Having said that, I ask, WHERE IN THE HELL ARE THE CANADIAN SUPER SCOOPERS? THE DC-10 AND 747 FIRE BOMBERS? Are we not putting additional firefighters, property and watershed in harms way by holding back on the heavy weapons of fire warfare? I say shame on those that are making the (financial) decision to not fight this damn fire with every ounce of vigor that is available. —Malcolm & Arlene Oakes Pine Cove I've rewritten this a few times now, it's hard to put into the best words. Firefighters are a courageous and brave breed that routinely face danger to keep others safe. To be consumed so quickly by the very thing that your trying to fight is unimaginable. Mine and my families thoughts are with those that passed and with the reaming that continue to fight despite the tragic loss. —Brian My heart grieves for the Loutzenheiser family. I knew Mark through softball, and was thinking about the adage that you can tell the quality of a man by his kids. Mark's kids are great, and I thought very highly of Mark. Maria, I am thinking of you. All the best, with love. —Kevin Nay Palm Springs/Idyllwild Fallen Heroes, We just lost 4 firefighters and one is in critical condition at the time of this writing due to an arsonist. You guys will never be forgotten. They are truly fallen heroes who lost their lives trying to save other peoples lives and property. My heart goes out to the families and friends of these firefighters who sacrificed themselves to protect others. I hope that I will be the lucky one to introduce justice to this arsonist who murdered these great firefighters. Respectfully Submitted, —Mike Franich Pine Cove, Ca. The true worth of the firefighters travels lies not in where they came to be at their journey’s end, but in the lives they touched along the way. I didn’t know these men but they have all touched my life. My prayers and thoughts are with their families, friends and firefighter brothers and sisters. —Steve Rockabrand Thousand Oaks, Ca Maria and Family, My thoughts and prayers go out to you all. Mark's bravery and dedication to saving lives will never be forgotten. He was protecting his family and his community which he loved dearly. The kids that he coached and the lives that he touched will always keep Mark in our memories. Maria, may the angels protect you and your beautiful children. —Lori Swenck Carlsbad All the Fire fighters, Thank you for protecting our homes and loved ones. We all mourn for your loss. —Andrew Layman, Boise, ID Although I've been away from the hill for some time now, I am proud to say that I worked in the same district for a short time under the strength & courage of Frank Gorzney. The love of the people on the hill, that embraced me & my family when my father died is true testament of their inner spirit, outward love & willingness to help you find the strength to move forward in a world that sometimes seems so unforgiving. I know the people of Idyllwild will continue to show the same in these trouble times. I believe these brave men will forever be watchful angels on the shoulders of their loved ones with wings to hover the land they loved & died to protect. My prayers are with you all..... Deepest respect, —Mary Anne Maria, I am so sorry for your loss and the loss of the other families as well. Idyllwild is still a very special place in my heart. I’ve enjoyed running into you and Mark and your kids at softball games on top field when I would come up to visit. The loving family of the Idyllwild community will be there for you and will keep Mark’s memory alive for you and your kids, I’m sure. I know the mountain’s heart will ache for a long time to come. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. —Love, Tiffini Stead Adams (Utah) Our small town is mourning the loss of Mark, Jess, Jason and Daniel, and praying for Pablo. I am horribly saddened, yet I feel blessed. Blessed that our town knows these men. Blessed that God is touching so many lives through tragedy as only He can.Blessed that God let our family have the privilege of knowing Mark as a friend, co-worker, coach, family man, and now a fallen hero. He has always been a hero through his children's eyes. Blessed so many people will know Mark, Jess, Jason and Daniel as fallen heroes. Blessed that our family is constantly being protected by Firefighters and service men and women we don't even know.Blessed to know that God recently blessed Crew 57 in the awesome delivery of a healthy baby boy.Maria, you know our family is here for you and the kids. God Bless. In His name. —Bob, Kathy and Breanna Idyllwild Maria: What a horrible tragedy! I’m so sorry for your loss. Mark was such a nice guy and a great firefighter. You have always been a strong willed woman even as we grew up in high school. I just wish I could be there for you in your dark hour. You have a good head on your shoulders and I know you will be strong. I’m so sorry for Polly & Russ. I know you are a strong family and will all work through this. —Karen Krahling- Huff To the Fire Protection Community: Thank you for protecting our community. We are so very grateful for your efforts. Please accept our sincere condolences for your losses. —R. Lewis Idyllwild It has been two years since we left, but our hearts are still in Idyllwild. We are grieving the fallen heroes and praying for their families, the fire crews and the town of Idyllwild. May God bless and protect all of you. —Harry and Kathie Smith I am deeply sorry for your loss. I knew Mark from my time working with the Forest Service, on the San Jacinto district, back in the 1980's. We all started around the same time. He was a great guy and I am sure will be deeply missed. My condolences to his family and friends and all the firefighters on the district. Sincerely —Diana Granstrom (Hough) To the families of the fallen firefighters my prayers are with you. To the people of the San Jacinto Mountain communities prayers are also with you. As I watch the live feed from the news on my computer in Oklahoma tears are streaming down my face. For someone to deliberately set a fire and one that kills those trying to help is just beyond me. I grew up in Moreno Valley and enjoyed Idyllwild and the people of the mountain. God Bless you all. —Sharon Denham & family Hymn to the Fallen Heroes Young and aged volunteer and career, man and woman of all races and colors, you left aching hearts behind An eternal flame warms your names inscribed on cold, lifeless plaques around this stone cairn In the hearts you left behind your memories abide in undying gratitude You asked nothing more You knew the risks, served without fear and paid the highest price You embody a quality of which many only dream Your selflessness for others is now your eternal crown O fallen comrades, give us all this quality that we may more fittingly prolong your memory Anonymous —Shirl Papaian San Jacinto CA GREAT SADNESS FOR THE COMMUNITY OF IDYLLWILD AS A PART TIME RESIDENT WHOSE FAMILY HAS OWNED HILL PROPERTY FOR SOME 80 YEARS I CANNOT SAY HOW I FEEL ABOUT THE DEATHS OF THESE GALLANT GENTLEMEN RISKING THEIR LIVES FOR THE BENEFIT OF EVERYONE. THIS YEAR I LOST A DEAR FRIEND, BATTALION CHIEF KENNETH RICE (OF SAN DIEGO AND AN EXPERT ON WILDFIRES) AND TO SEE NOW THAT WE HAVE LOST MORE DUE TO THE WILLFUL ACTIONS OF AN ARSONIST MAKES ME EVEN MORE AWARE OF THE FACT THAT BRAVE MEN AND WOMEN ARE WILLING TO STEP FORWARD FOR THEIR FELLOW CITIZENS. EVEN AT THE COSTS OF THEIR OWN LIVES. MAY THEIR FAMILIES TAKE GREAT PRIDE IN THEIR LOSSES FOR THESE WERE PEOPLE NOT REPLACABLE, EITHER TO THE FAMILIES INVOLVED OR THE COMMUNITY AT LARGE. MAY THE COMMUNITY CHEER THEIR MEMORIES AND HELP THEIR FAMILIES AT THIS TIME OF GREAT SADNESS. —HODGE CRABTREE Our thoughts and prays to the family of Mark. Best regards, —Julie Graf (Jacobson or Braginton) - Former classmate of Mark San Diego, CA My thoughts and prayers go to all of you on the hill. I lived in Idyllwild and Palm Springs and recently had to relocate to Austin, Texas for my work. I miss you all terribly and my heart is with you in this time of crisis. I'm following closely through the Town Crier web site and other Internet news services. Best of luck. —Richard V. Burckhardt John 15:13: "Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends." How can this kind of love ever be explained. The love of a parent for a child, of a husband for a wife, of God for His people. The wonder of the sacrifice of these firefighters for us all. Life is too hard to handle alone but these men, and all that risk their lives in the line of duty, have shown us true love.....both in life and beyond. Thank you. Our continual prayers are with you all. —A friend in Colorado To the town of Idyllwild, My heart is heavy at this time for you and your heros. I would like to express my thoughts and prayers for your community. I've been visiting and staying in Fern Valley for over 3 years now - every other month or so and I can only say that your town and community have much to offer each other. Idyllwild has become a very large part of my family. You're all in our thoughts. —Diana F. Luevano Downey, CA Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families and friends of the firefighters who lost their lives and injured, risking all to protect the San Jacinto mountain region and people. We so appreciate the dedication of these men and women. We continue to pray for all the firefighters assisting in this battle and especially for IFD brothers and sisters called to aide. Sincerely, —Ken and Cindy Menz Parents and families of lost firefighters, My heart goes out to the family and parents of the lost firefighters. It situation never dreamed of for a parent to bury their child. It is an emotional tole that slowly heals if ever. I worry about Mark's parents with their frail health, please include them in your prayers. —Merrie Idyllwild, CA Let's unite 100% to engage the effort of the firefighters to save lives and properties for the community of Idyllwild. This is a very special time to give our prayers to every single member of the Fire Department. I feel very close to all members of my community and my eyes fill with tears when I feel the affect on peoples lives and their local businesses. I send my love, my strength and my prayers. —Raphael Thenoco Maria, my thoughts are with you and your children. At times like this I wish I were not so far away. You have always been a very strong and independent person. But now you need to let those around you wrap you in their arms and help you through these dark days. My prayers are with you guys. My heart is broken for your family. I will be in touch soon. —Dave Miller, Homer, Alaska (formerly of Idyllwild). Many thoughts and prayers to you and your children Maria, and your families. I only knew Mark a little from baseball two years ago when he coached the Twins--his smile was contagious, and his big heart spread happiness all through the team. He was a great coach, and a great guy. Our community has suffered a great loss. A friend from Northern California sent me this poem upon hearing about the fire: When I am called to duty, God Whenever flames may rage, Give me the strength to save some life Whatever be its age, Help me embrace a little child Before it is too late Or save an older person from The horror of that fate Enable me to be alert and Hear the weakest shout And quickly and efficiently To put the fire out I want to fill my calling and To give the best in me, To guard my every neighbor and Protect his property And if according to my fate I am to lose my life, Please bless with your protecting hand My children and my wife. —Julie Countryman Dear Maria, God has blessed w/you w/a very happy & healtyh family. You both have been a large part of all of our childrens learning, sports ativity & fun throughout the entire community & we thank you. Your whole family is in our prayers & thoughts. We can only hope you find peace. He was a great man & a wonderful firefighter, as they all are. We pray for the safe & well being of all the men & women who fight so bravely for our hill & all communities. We love & wish your family all the best through this very difficult time. Fondly, —Yogi, Moe & Family Idyllwild/Garner Valley It's been so hard to follow the day's news from off the hill. Being part timers with a cabin in Pine Cove, we were grateful for the call from our friend Tiffany informing us of the fire and sending photos of the gathering smoke cloud from the deck of our cabin. She also shared the news of the firefighters lost in the fire. Throughout the day our hearts have been heavy with sadness for the families and friends of the fire fighters overcome by the fire. We know how close the community is and how devastating this must be for everyone. Our hearts are with you. —Nancy & Cathie Duarte/Pine Cove Idyllwild is our home. Although we've been gone 7 years, our hearts still remain on the Hill. The risks of living in such a town are that eventually a tragedy such as this will occur. Fortunately, we know that as family and friends grieve, they will have each other and the strength of the community for support. We wait fearfully for the names of the other 4 to be released and grieve the loss of a great man. Mark was a wonderful father and friend of whom we have nothing but good memories. Maria, if I could hug you right now I would. Our thoughts and prayers are with you, your family and everyone else on the Hill. —Suzanne Walker —Kathleen Clarke No sentiments are adequate to express how I feel about the sacrifices of these heroes. I cannot know the hurt their families, friends and community are feeling. I can say with a heavy heart and much gratitude, these heroes will be missed, but not forgotten. I can also say without hesitation this community and those who love this town stand ready to honor these heroes and assist their families in any way we can. Idyllwild is a special place with wonderful people like these heroes who sacrificed themselves to help others. I am truly thankful to call Idyllwild my home. —Jim Thomas You and your lost ones are the true heroes; in my career as a Marine I was proud of some actions, not proud of others: your firefighters stand for what bravery, duty, honor, really means: to give your life to save life—god it is truly terrible to die, and I’ve seen a lot of death—but it is worse to live without meaning… you are a town grieving true heroes, and I salute you… Sincerely, —Sean Brendan-Brown, USMC Ret. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the local firefighters who have fallen and those who continue to protect the local mountain communities. You and your families will be in our hearts and in our prayers. God Bless You All, —Ryan and Katie Duarte Idyllwild, Ca Our hearts go out to the families of the firemen and brave souls that are putting their lives on the line to save their communities. Idyllwild in particular, is one of our favorite areas to visit when we get to California, and offer our prayers that the fire will be brought under control without further loss of life or property. May God be with you in these trying times.............. —Jeff & Lenore Jones Plymouth Indiana To all on the San Jacinto Ranger District, I woke up this morning sitting at the computer looking out over the Laikipia plateau in Kenya where our house is located. Elephants were below the house and the sun was coming up over Mount Kenya. As I checked my e-mails and browsed the news I came across the terrible headlines. I soon discovered that they were firefighters from Alandale, engine 57. In the mid 70s I was engine captain there. Suddenly I was overcome with emotion and memories from that time. I understand the grief that everyone must be feeling. My time as Captain on E-57 was the best time of my life and the best job I ever had. To be a firefighter on the San Bernardino was a privilege and to be surrounded by such dedicated people is something I will never forget in all my 30 years in fire management. I deeply grieve for those that have made this sacrifice, but I know that would not have chosen any other course in their life. Regards and best wishes, —Michael Calvin USFS Retired Laikipia Kenya To the Loutzenhiser Family, I am so sorry for your loss, my heart aches with you. Mark was a Big brother to me all of our years growing up in Idyllwild! My husband is also a Captain with the Fire Dept. CDF. Even though we know the dangers of their jobs, we are never prepared to say goodbye. I have such good memories when I think of Mark, I am so lucky to have known him like I did! My sympathies and prayers go out to you all. Sincerely and with Love, —Michelle (Bergstrom) Cannady To the town of Idyllwild, and especially to Maria Loutzenheiser; I send my love and most heartfelt sympathies from myself and my family to you and yours. I wish there was so much more I could do for you. In this difficult time, please do not dwell on what has happened and why; there will be time for that soon. Now, let us remember Mark as he was; a strong, caring friend and family man and courageous firefighter. There are no words that can heal the pain that if felt now, only time will allow that. Let us also send to those who continue to fight this fire and others our well wishes and our support. Maria, I can in no way know how you feel, but please know that you and your family are in our prayers and thoughts. God bless you and yours, and may God bless all those who constantly put their lives on the line for us. We will forever be indebted to you. —Glenn Brock, Palm Springs, formerly of Idyllwild My husband (who is a firefighter/paramedic) and I would like to extend our deepest sympathies to the families of the fallen firefighters and the community. You will be in our prayers! —Ed and Tammie Tarbell Brevard County Fire Rescue, FL Tonight the Town Crier is aptly named. We're all crying for these men and their families. —Adele Smith We will always be grateful to these noble people, battling the blazing fire to keep our families and our mountain safe. Our family sends our prayers, thoughts, and profound gratitude to the families of the fallen firefighters, and to all the other firefighters who continue the fight. God Bless. —Linda McCaughin, Phil Strong, and Bret McCaughin-Strong My thoughts go out to all the wonderful men and women fighting the Esperanza Fire and my heart goes out to the families of the men who died protecting others. To the Loutzenhiser family, my heart grieves for your loss and I am thinking of you. Thank you to all those fighting to protect our mountains and surrounding communities. As I am not home in Idyllwild, it is very stressful for me being updated via phone and e-mail, but I know we will be safe with the protection of the brave people. My thoughts are with you... —Lauren Salter Idyllwild, CA I have worked on the same district as these firefighter's who lost there lives today and it hit me when I found out what engines they were. My thoughts and prayers go out to the family's and friends. —Cy Phenice Hemet, CA My profound thoughts of sympathy go out to the family, friends and other loved ones of the firefighters who died in the line of duty and the firefighter critically injured. I will pray for that firefighter's recovery. I know this must be a terrible blow to your community as those of us who live, work or play in our region's backcountry know that these men and woman who serve in fire/rescue are heroes, every single day. I hope it is comforting to know that there are many people sending positive thoughts and prayers your way. —Eric Symons San Diego/Palomar Mountain Maria - my heart is with you and your entire family. Please know you have so many people supporting and caring for you. We are sending our prayers and all our positive energy and strength to you. —T.C. Doyle & Cheyenne Tweed My thoughts go out to the family, friends and town of the fallen fire fighters. You are all in my prayers. Sincerely, —Michelle Rehn Reseda, Ca I retired from LA County Fire Department as a Battalion Chief in 1977. Have been involved with many wildfires during my service. I only wish to express my admiration for those men who lost their lives in this disaster. And my heartfelt sorrow for those left behind. I know from experience what those men were thinking and feeling as they attempted to do their duty. Please know that they did not die in vain. —Reginald Perkins LACFD Ret. To the families of the men who gave everything to their community they loved today.....my prayers are with you. You can be proud of these men... committed to the task at hand and doing what they believed in. They will be remembered ! —Judy Pine Cove, Ca I live in Hemet, and am glad our high school is able to serve as a safe place for evacuees. Firefighters are our hero's and my heart goes out to all the firefighters and families. Tesha Loutzenhiser my heart goes out to you my close friend, my thoughts are prayers are with you and your family! —Kaitlynn Hemet, Ca I purchased my home in Idyllwild 4 years ago. I have thought several times of selling it, but cannot bring myself to move away from this beautiful community. Although I do not know the firefighters or their families, please know that I am praying for God’s comfort and love to surround you and “yours” in this time of your most precious loss. These men are true hero’s and can only be admired for their strength and commitment. May the Lord be close to you! —Susan Lines La Mesa/Idyllwild Firefighters are a special kind of brave. It's been that way before 9/11 and the 343 and will always be that way. I send my prayers and condolences to the families and friends of the 4 heroes that made the ultimate sacrifice. God Bless you all. —Vicki and Glenn Alpaugh, El Cajon, CA It was only last August that we moved to our new cabin in Idyllwild, but it’s very clear how close a community it is, and how our firefighters are its very heart. That heart is breaking today. We never had a chance to meet these heroes. We do know, however, that they died with honor, and in the service of their fellow man. There is a special place in heaven for them. We wish their families and friends courage, peace and healing in the coming days. —Nancy Schlesinger Carlsbad/Idyllwild Maria, I send all of my love, strength and prayers to you and your family as well as to the other firefighters’ families. I do not think I could adequately put into words my grief. Please know, I stand with you in all of this and will do anything possible to help you through this time. There is truly “no separation” for anyone who lives in Idyllwild. We will be here for you. There will be a special service this evening at Yokoji Zen Mountain Center at 7.p.m. in honor of Mark Loutzenhiser and the other firefighters who have lost their lives in this tragedy. Incense will be offered for the safety of the firefighters still battling the fire and for the residents of Idyllwild, Poppet Flat, Banning and all surrounding communities. My love and strength —Cris L Fletcher I lived in Idyllwild from 1996 to 1999. During that time my family and I felt honored to meet such an amazingly close knit, caring community. We are deeply saddened the tragedy and our prayers are with each and everyone who live on the hill. God Bless, —Lydia Marinos (Richardson) —Nick Richardson —Morgan Richardson Faces of Fire Fine mens’ faces Faces To be seen no more More faces Twisted, anguished, disbelieving The pain and the passion of so many Dedicated to keeping us safe Silent now In sorrowful thought —Doris Jean Lombard God bless the men who sacrificed their lives for our safety. God bless their friends and comrades who had to say goodbye. God bless the wives, children, siblings and parents who supported them every day in their unselfish act of heroism. God bless those heroic men and women who continue to serve our communities and risk their lives. My thoughts and prayers are with the friends and loved ones of those who perished in the fire. I will forever be grateful for your sacrifice. —Lisa Furugen Idyllwild My wife and I live in Julian, at Cuyamaca Lake. We were just up the hill to Idyllwild on Monday, to eat & shop. We were victims of the 2003 Cedar Fire. Our thoughts and our Prayers are with you. It is almost to hard to believe, to close, to much the same conditions..... God Bless those who are lost. There is no greater gift, then the giving of ones life to help others. I am deeply saddened by the loss of these men.To the Families of those who are effected by the tragedy of fire, Please say a prayer tonight. We are all thinking of you. Cuyamaca Lake —Daniel Saum To the town and families: I am grieving with you all during this tragic time. Please know that I send my love and prayers, wish I could be there to help. —Pam Sharp, NP |