CAL FIRE Capt. David William Lutz, 33, tragically died in a hiking accident in Pfeiffer Burns State Park near Big Sur on Wednesday, according to CAL FIRE San Mateo-Santa Cruz and Local 2881.
Lutz was dedicated to his family, his faith and to his calling as a firefighter, his colleagues say.
Born in Los Gatos and raised in Corralitos, Lutz attended the Monterey Fire Academy and began his career as a volunteer firefighter with the Corralitos CAL FIRE Station. In 2008, he joined the San Mateo-Santa Cruz Unit as a Fire Fighter 1 and worked as a Fire Captain at El Granada Station within the Coastside Fire Protection District.
Lutz is survived by his wife, Tisha Lutz, step-daughter Alyssa, and young children Bailey, Caleb and baby Hope, who is due at any time, according to CAL FIRE. He is also survived by his parents, 12 siblings, and nieces and nephews.
According to his colleagues: “He was known for his deep faith; his personal relationship with God permeating all areas of his life. He was bold and eager to live all kinds of life’s adventures, ready to learn something new or head off on a new adventure, all with his wife Tisha an beloved children by his side. As a firefighter he was brave and always willing to tackle any task or danger, large or small. He was eager to help others, mentor those around him, offer practical support, and was loyal of all things outdoors, and his dedication to CAL FIRE and the calling and people he cared so much about.”
Photo credit: CAL FIRE San Mateo-Santa Cruz
