Rob began his career as a volunteer firefighter while still in high school. Immediately after graduating, he entered the CDF Firefighter Academy in 1988. Stationed at the Porterville Air Attack Base, Rob's strong work ethic and sense of ambition and determination led him up through the ranks, and eventually promoted him to Battalion Chief. His love for the fire service could only be surpassed by the love he had for his friends and family. In September 2006, Rob and pilot Sandy Willett were killed in a plane accident while surveying a fire near Balch Park, California. He was only 36 years old. In addition to his parents and three siblings, Rob is survived by his beloved wife, Rindy; his eight-year old son, Wil; and his four-year old daughter, Libbie.