After having been inspired to pursue a career in the fire service through a television commercial, Guadalupe "Lupe" Olivas went to his local fire department, became a volunteer, and began taking classes at the local community college in pursuit of a degree.  Lupe was able to find his passion through the fire service and joined the Riverside City Fire Department in 1983; he was promoted to Engineer in 1988 and Captain in 1992.  During his 14 years with the department, he was known for his positive, caring attitude toward everyone he came in contact with.  Lupe was an active part of his community, through his participation as department spokesperson for the KDIF Spanish radio station, coordinator for the Youth Education Motivation Program, and as a mentor for UC Riverside's "Soy Hombre."  When off duty, he enjoyed spending time with his family, attending church, and watching the Lakers' basketball games.