MISSION, Ore.-The Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR) and Umatilla Tribal Fire Department (UTFD) have announced the death of longtime firefighter Captain Mike Foster.
Foster, 54, who had been with UTFD for 15 years, died after an accident at his home in Pendleton on February 12, according to a CTUIR press release.
“Captain Foster served his community with honor, integrity and unwavering dedication,” said UTFD Chief James Hall. “His loss is deeply felt across our department, community and the many lives he touched throughout his lifelong career in fire/EMS. His service reflects a legacy of selflessness and commitment that will never be forgotten.”
Foster served as a paramedic, fire service leader and mentor to several firefighters and EMS personnel throughout his career with UTFD. He played a vital role in strengthening emergency medical services and fire protection on the Umatilla Indian Reservation and nearby communities, according to Hall.
“He will be deeply missed on the fire scene as well as in the community,” said CTUIR Board of Trustees (BOT) Treasurer Raymond Huesties, who served as a firefighter alongside Foster. “I have always considered him, and every first responder, as family members. I want to thank his family for sharing him with all of us to help protect and serve the CTUIR.”
Foster, originally from Vancouver, Washington, is survived by his family, including fiancé Elisa. Services for Foster have yet to be determined, according to the CTUIR.
“Captain Foster was a dedicated and proud Umatilla Tribal Fire Department firefighter who served our community with care and honor,” said CTUIR BOT Corinne Sams. “We are forever grateful to Captain Foster for the work he so diligently carried out at the Umatilla Tribal Fire Department and his family who supported that work.”
The UTFD provides emergency services, including fire prevention and suppression, emergency medical services, and hazardous materials response over a combined fire and ambulance service area of 582 square miles.
