Robert Eugene Wesolowski

Rob Wesolowski, 60, passed away unexpectedly on February 10, 2025, in Santa Maria, California.

A native of Santa Barbara, Rob was a true lover of the outdoors. He found joy in surfing local beaches, rock climbing, hiking in the Eastern Sierras and Joshua Tree, as well as skiing, fishing, and exploring many other outdoor pursuits.

Rob attended local schools in Santa Barbara and spent his youth hiking the foothills and surfing the coast. After high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps, followed by work as a machinist in Oakland, California. Fulfilling a childhood dream, he later graduated from the Allan Hancock Firefighter Academy and began his career in firefighting.

With a deep sense of service and compassion, Rob devoted more than 25 years to wildland firefighting. While his primary assignments were in the Eastern Sierras, his career took him across the country in various roles, including engine chief, captain, flight coordinator, fire prevention officer, and investigator. His curiosity and sense of humor allowed him to quickly strike up a conversation and friendships wherever his journey led him.

Rob is survived by his brother Tom, sister-in-law Kathy, sister Carol, sister-in-law Carone, step-nephew Ryan and step-niece Alana. He will be deeply missed for his unforgettable fire stories, sparkling blue eyes, and playful grin.

A celebration of Rob’s life will be held at Leadbetter Beach on Saturday, June 28, at 6:00 p.m.

Donations in his memory can be made to the Wildland Firefighter Foundation: https://wffoundation.org/