Bob Burleson; Retired County Firefighter

After a longtime battle with cancer, firefighter and lifelong Santa Paula resident Bob Burleson died Wednesday.

Born Sept. 23, 1930, Burleson retired from the Ventura County Fire Department in 1986 after 30 years of service, the last five as an arson investigator.

“He was a very loving person,” said his daughter, Brenda Padgett of Santa Paula. “He was a wonderful father--the best.”

Burleson was a veteran of the U. S. Air Force and was also an avid golfer and passionate sports fan, she said.

In addition to his daughter, Burleson is survived by his wife of 45 years, Margaret; a son, Wade Burleson of Victor, Idaho; daughter Debra Barker of Santa Paula, and five grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Monday at the First Presbyterian Church in Santa Paula. Arrangements are under the direction of Pierce Brothers Stetler Mortuary, Santa Paula.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in his name to the Burleson Family Scholarship Fund at Santa Paula Union High School.