Robert "Bobby" Vance Thurston 1954-2015 Bob was born on May 26, 1954 to Vance and Martha Thurston. His childhood was filled with family, friends, camping trips, desert hiking, and more. Bob spent almost his entire life in Long Beach, a city he loved. He went to Wilson High school where he played football and excelled in baseball. He found many friends there that he stayed in touch with throughout his remarkable life. Bob followed in his father's footsteps and became a firefighter. He started his career in 1977 in Kern County and then joined the LBFD in 1979. "The best job in the world!" Bob became a paramedic in 1982 a position he developed great skill in. He transitioned to Captain in 1989 and went on to be well respected and admired for his leadership. "You gotta take care of your guys." Bob finished his career in 2008 right where he wanted to be, Station 8 in Belmont Shore! He married Dana Teele in 1978 and they went on to raise two wonderful sons of whom he was most proud. Brett, the oldest for turning his life around, and Bryan the youngest for following him and becoming a firefighter. Throughout his life he was surrounded by family and friends who loved him. Bob is survived by his two sons, Brett and Bryan, his brothers, who meant the world to him, Jim and Ron, many extended family and friends, and of course the entire Long Beach Fire Department. Lastly, Bob reconnected four years ago with the woman who would bring great love and joy to his life, his partner to the end, Lesley Richardson. A celebration of life will be held at the Long Beach Yacht Club on Friday January 8th from 1 to 4 pm.
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