08/26/2026
RIP friend and past president!
This Saturday, we will gather to honor the life and service of retired Battalion Chief Richard Smithen, a longtime member of the fire service and one of our own.
Chief Smithen dedicated 35 years to the fire service, including 30 years with the San Luis Obispo Unit, serving at Headquarters, Los Robles, and Parkhill before later promoting to Battalion Chief in the Fresno-Kings Unit.
His commitment to service began even earlier as a United States Navy veteran, serving from 1965 to 1969 as an Aviation Electronics Technician at Naval Air Station Lemoore. After retiring from CDF in 1997, he continued serving his community as Safety Chief with the San Miguel Fire Department.
Chief Smithen took great pride in his fire service career and remained closely connected to the CDF family throughout retirement, attending retiree gatherings and staying in touch with the people he served alongside.
Family, friends, and members of the fire service are invited to join us in honoring Chief Smithen:
Memorial Service
Saturday, August 29, 2026
9:30 AM
San Miguel District Cemetery
9405 Cemetery Road
San Miguel, CA 93451
Celebration of Life
11:00 AM
Cornerstone Community Church
9685 Morro Rd.
Atascadero, CA 93422
It will be an honor to stand with his family, friends, and fellow firefighters as we remember his life, his service, and the legacy he leaves behind.
Rest in peace, Chief Smithen. Your service will not be forgotten.
For those who would like to send a card or message of condolence to the family:
Jo Smithen
P.O. Box 481
San Miguel, CA 93451
