Chief Stanford Alfred Simi began his 51-year career in the fire service in 1966 as a volunteer firefighter. By 1974, Stanford was the chief of the Rio Vista, River Delta and Montezuma Fire Departments. Chief Simi served his community with honor and distinction and received many awards — including Special Congressional recognition for invaluable service to his community, Solano County Firefighter of the Year and the Melvin Jones Award. Outside of the fire service, Stanford was an avid fisherman, possessed a Class III Private Pilot’s License, and enjoyed any opportunity to train and mentor future firefighters. Last November, while still in active duty, Chief Simi succumbed to the effects of job-related cancer. He is survived by his wife, Medora, and their children.