With deep regret the WSCFF, Local 3828, and Cowlitz 2 County Fire & Rescue report the Line-of-Duty-Death of Battalion Chief Mike Zainfeld, a 20-year veteran firefighter. Mike died on Thursday, September 19, 2019. He leaves behind his wife Kelly, sons Braden and Evan and many colleagues and friends.
A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, October 1, 2019 at 1:00 p.m. at New Life Church, 2441 42nd Ave., Longview, WA 98632. Procession arrival at the church will be at noon. Please arrive by 11:30 a.m. if you would like to be a part of the arrival formation.
Cowlitz 2 Fire & Rescue Fire Chief Dave LaFave said, “This hurts. We will remember Mike, his family, and what they contributed to our organization. They’re a big part of where we are today. I believe Mike would want us to move forward together. We will support each other and his family as we all get through this loss.”
Zainfeld began his career with Cowlitz 2 as a fire cadet in 1994, the first year of the program. He was hired full time in 2000 after completing paramedic training in Tacoma. After several years on the job, he was promoted to lieutenant, captain, and battalion chief. He was active in all hazard deployments, qualified as a division supervisor, and served on assignments in several states.
Mike enjoyed spending time with his family and vacationing with his immediate and extended fire families. He also appreciated the outdoors, fishing, flying his drone, reading history books, and being with his German Shepherd, Max.
A fund has been established to provide support for the Zainfeld family. To make a donation, visit the site or make a text donation by calling 360-207-2170 and text “donation”.