Logger died ‘a hero’ fighting wildfire
Family and friends of Roberts Creek logger and volunteer firefighter John Phare say he died a hero.
Phare, 60, was killed Sunday at noon while helping battle a forest fire near the former Sechelt mine site on the Sunshine Coast.
His older brother Lonnie said Monday that a tree toppled down on him while he was helping put out hot spots.
”All I know is a tree fell and hit another one and he didn’t see or hear it coming down on him,” said Lonnie, 65.
A logger by trade, Phare was in the partially burnt area helping cut down trees to make sure the fire did not spread.
“He was well-trained and always cautious,” said Lonnie. “It was just something freaky that happened.”
Phare had been a volunteer firefighter for about five years and was owner of a logging company based in Roberts Creek. He leaves behind a fiancé and three stepchildren.
Phare’s sister Ruth said she talked to him last week just before he left to go in to work on the fire that remains only about 40 per cent contained.
“He loved his family and he was there for everybody, “said Ruth.
Gibsons Councillor Silas White said people are in shock over the death.
“It is a tight-knit community and definitely is hitting everybody hard,” White said. “He is a hero.”
White said Phare was ready to help when called on. “This type of fire is not a regular occurrence and people are pitching in to help,” he said. “It has taken over the mindset of the community.”
Sunshine Coast RCMP Const. Harrison Mohr said in a statement that Phare’s death “is a tragic example of how truly dangerous it is for those battling these wildfires ... We are fortunate to have such brave men and women working to protect our homes and communities.”