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Remembering James Davidson

May 10, 2022

James Davidson and his wife Angel.
James Davidson with his wife, Angel.

It is with immense sorrow that we share the news of the passing of James Davidson, who worked as a firefighter on the Eagle Lake Ranger District, Lassen National Forest.

 

In 1993, James started his fire career working for the Bureau of Indian Affairs with the Western Nevada 1 Fire Crew. James then transferred to the Forest Service to serve as an apprentice, lead firefighter, and senior firefighter with the Humboldt-Toiyable National Forest at the Galena Work Station. James’ last duty station was on the Eagle Lake Ranger District as the Assistant Forest Engine Operator at the Bogard Work Station.

 

In total, James had over 20 years of fire experience, working in many different fuel types and conditions. He had experience working in the southwest, southeast, Rocky Mountain region, Pacific Northwest, Great Basin, and southern California.

In addition to being a firefighter, James was also a qualified Base Camp Manager. He enjoyed serving in this fire support role for his fellow firefighter comrades.  

In the off season, James often worked odd jobs including being a stagehand, a stage technician and various jobs in construction and maintenance. James had many interests in life, from drawing and painting, hiking, hunting, fishing, camping, driving his Jeep off-road, exploring wild places, visiting historical sites, strategy games, martial arts, and weightlifting. James was a people person and he enjoyed talking with others. And he was also an avid mushroom hunter.

 

In 2017, James graduated from the University of Nevada, Reno with a Bachelor of Arts degree with a double major in Anthropology and Art.

 

Although James was born in Paris, Tennessee, he moved around a lot while growing up because his father served in the U.S. Coast Guard. He was well traveled starting at a young age. James had lived in Alaska, Michigan, Kentucky, and Nevada.

 

In 1998, James met Angel while she was working for his mother. They developed a friendship that turned in to so much more. They began dating in late 1999. In 2000, James and Angel were married. They  shared a passion for the outdoors, learning about the culture and history of the areas where they lived, the companionship of dogs and reading books. They completed a successful antelope hunt last August while he was in chemotherapy and she was five months pregnant.

James was a loving husband and father. He is survived by his loving wife Angel, beautiful 4-month-old daughter Aurora (Rory), his mother, Randi and two sisters.

Our condolences go out to the entire Davidson family, their friends, James’ co-workers, and all those who knew and loved him. We are beyond grateful for his many years of service and dedication to this agency and our nation.

 

A memorial service is scheduled for June 5, 2022, at 1:00 p.m. at Jones Creek in Galena Creek Park.

 

Letters of condolence may be sent to: Davidson Family c/o Eagle Lake Ranger District Office 477-050 Eagle Lake Road Susanville, CA 96130.

 

https://www.fs.usda.gov/es/node/652163702