Luke Sheehy did not die an unlived life.

Luke was truly at home in nature, and he committed his brief adult life to one of the few professions that allowed him to be constantly surrounded by it. He was born and raised in the small town of Susanville in the Sierra Nevadas of northern California. Luke grew up to be a truly fearless and adventurous young man. At age 18, he found a profession where those traits were highly valued – wildland firefighting. Luke’s career included being on an engine with CAL FIRE, a member of the Diamond Mountain Hotshots, and Bieber Helitack Crew.

In 2009, Luke achieved one of his goals when he was asked to join the country’s elite smokejumper crews with Region 5 in Redding, California. In addition to his required duties as a smokejumper, Luke also loved training the rookies. This was just one example of how passionate he was about his responsibility as a firefighter, but also his steadfast commitment to the team—to his bros. He was constantly striving to go above and beyond in his work, but never forgetting the importance of helping others along the way, both inside and outside of his profession.

Aside from firefighting, Luke loved playing the guitar with family and friends, snowmobiling, fishing, riding his motorcycle, and hunting. His huge smile lit up a room, and his laughter was contagious.

On June 10, 2013, Luke died doing what he loved and as a member of a crew that he loved. While fighting the Saddle Back Fire in the Southern Warner Wilderness, he was struck and killed by a falling piece of timber. He was just 28 years old.

Luke’s genuine nature, his desire to live every day like it was his last, and the love he shared with so many, has inspired all those who loved him to “Live Like Luke.” Whether it was a brief encounter or a lifelong relationship, all those who were touched by his vibrant spirit are forever changed.