SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. – The family of fallen firefighter and wildland fire pilot, Christopher Andersen, announced a memorial to honor and remember Chris, who was killed on August 7, 2026, while supporting wildland fire suppression efforts on the Widemouth 2 Fire in Utah.
Chris was a respected helicopter pilot and beloved member of the wildland firefighting community. His loss has been deeply felt by his family, friends, colleagues, fellow pilots, firefighters, and fire agencies throughout the region and across the wildland fire community.
The Andersen family, with support from local and state fire agencies and the U.S. Forest Service, will hold a memorial service in South Lake Tahoe on Friday, Oct. 16, 2026, at Lake Tahoe Airport to honor Chris’ life, service, and lasting impact on the wildland fire community.
Beginning at 11:30 a.m., Chris’s remains will be escorted by his family, local fire agencies and the U.S. Forest Service from Zephyr Cove to Lake Tahoe Airport via U.S. Highway 50 ahead of the memorial service.
Community members are encouraged to line the streets along the escort route to honor Chris, show support for his family, and stand alongside the firefighters, pilots, and agencies coming together to remember and honor him.
The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to local fire agencies, the U.S. Forest Service, and all those who have provided support and helped honor Chris’ legacy during this difficult time.
Chris’ dedication to wildland fire aviation and his service to others will never be forgotten. His memory will live on in the wildland fire community and in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
