Ronny J. Coleman, a revered nationally-recognized fire service leader for half a century, who served as California State Fire Marshal and as the chair of the CSFA Volunteer Committee, passed away Sept. 19 in Sacramento. Chief Coleman had been the Fire Chief of the City of Fullerton Fire Department when he was appointed in 1992 by Governor Pete Wilson to the position of State Fire Marshal, a position he held for 8 years. Prior to that, Chief Coleman was the Fire Chief with the City of San Clemente Fire Department, and prior to that was the Operation Chief with the City of Costa Mesa Fire Department.
During his tenure as State Fire Marshal, the State Fire Marshal’s Office was merged into the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, now known as CAL FIRE.