WALLA WALLA, Wash. – UPDATE Jan. 12
According to a press release from the City of Walla Walla, Engineer Ryan Pleasants’ cause of death is confirmed to be a “significant cardiac event” following an autopsy.
The press release notes that contributing factors included physical and mental stress from work.
A memorial service for family and close friends is scheduled for Jan. 24. A public service will be held on Jan. 27 at 1 p.m. at the Walla Walla Community College Dietrich Dome.
UPDATE Jan. 10
Walla Walla Fire Chief John Knowles released the following statement on the death of Firefighter Ryan Pleasants:
On Jan. 7, 2024, the Walla Walla Fire Department and the Walla Walla Professional Firefighters lost one of their own. Fire Engineer Ryan Pleasants passed away while on duty serving the Walla Walla Valley community.
Ryan began his career with the Walla Walla Fire Department in 2005 and served as a firefighter/medic for his first 19 years with us until his recent promotion to Engineer in July 2023.
Ryan loved serving this community and lived the Walla Walla Fire Department’s Core Values of Integrity, Ownership, Professionalism, and Compassion at the highest level. Ryan held himself accountable to these values and the mission of the Walla Walla Fire Department — “We Do This for Others” — and pushed those around him to do the same.
Positive Mental Attitude (PMA) was often heard by others when Ryan was around, PMA was something Ryan believed in and was always encouraging and sometimes demanding others to do the same.
Ryan was a devoted husband and father, and when he was not serving this community, he would be found caring for his beautiful children and wife. Ryan loved life and shared that love with everyone around him.
Ryan will be forever missed by everyone who was blessed to have known him. Our deepest condolences go out to his family, both at home and in the fire service
ORIGINAL COVERAGE
The Walla Walla City Manager has issued a statement on the death of Firefighter Ryan Pleasants.
Pleasants, a Walla Walla Fire Department Fire Engineer with 20-years with the Department, died while on duty on Sunday, Jan. 7.
Elizabeth Chamberlain, Walla Walla’s City Manager released the following statement on Monday, Jan. 8:
“The City of Walla Walla team is here to support the Walla Walla Fire Department as they tragically lost one of their own. The City sends our thoughts and condolences to Ryan’s family during this extremely difficult time.”
“The City is grateful to the College Place, Pasco, and Richland fire departments, and Walla Walla County Fire District 4, for stepping in to assist with Walla Walla’s emergency responses. Thanks to their support, our community does not need to worry about 911 calls.”
