Rigo Landeros was more than a Fire Chief. He was a loving husband, father and friend. He was the most compassionate person I have ever known. Giving his time, money and talents to various charities and organizations. I was fortunate to have him in my life for the two plus years I have been city manager.

After I was hired as city manager, and before I relocated to Fillmore from Ohio, he would send me emails and we would talk on the phone about what was taking place in Fillmore so I could hit the ground running. On my first visit to Fillmore Rigo and his wife, Laura, invited my wife and I over for dinner. We hit it off like long lost friends. We talked about our vision for Fillmore, food, travel and, most importantly, family. He was very proud of his three children and could not stop gushing about his grandchildren.

We shared a passion for food, drink and BBQ. At our first employee pot luck we grilled my sweet jalapeño chicken wings and his famous tri-tip. From that point on a friendly cooking and dining challenge between us led to outings together all over the County and surrounding areas. He introduced me to many authentic dishes you would be hard pressed to find in Ohio. These included menudo, tripas tacos, lengua tacos and many other dishes to share. We enjoyed searching out new places to eat off of the beaten path. Often after Kristen and I found a new place, we would mention it to Rigo and Laura, they’d smile and say, “oh, try this place, it’s even better!” They were always right.

He was my sounding board and confidant. Discussing his vision of the Fire Department was a joy for us: the redesign of the quarters, the new squad, and looking at adding additional full time personnel to keep the Fire Department one of the best departments in the State. His love and care for Fillmore was second to none. He loved this city with all his heart. He also loved his fire fighters. I will work to see his vision through on hiring new employees and ensuring our employees have the best equipment to complete their jobs.

He touched my heart as he did so many others. I will miss the morning greetings of “what’s up buttercup?” and hearing him say after I asked him how are you doing – “Living the dream. Living the dream brother.” He truly was living his dream of being Fillmore’s Fire Chief.

Here's to Silver Oak, great food, family and a truly great friend. I loved you like a brother and you will be missed.