Ryan Pleasants was an observant man of honor and integrity. WWFD former Chief Knowles said, “He was an excellent firefighter, a compassionate yet firm medic who strove to provide the best care to his patients, and at the same time was willing to pass on his knowledge and experience to those who would follow in his footsteps. His calm, safe demeanor was a comfort in amongst itself, along with his infectious smile. Ryan dedicated his life to serving his communities.”

Ryan’s plans of college and enlisting in the U.S. Coast Guard were changed when he volunteered as a firefighter for Cowlitz-Skamania County District #7. While attending college and volunteering, he earned his Incident Qualification Card, was an EMT- mountain and volcano rescue for North Country EMS in the Mt. St. Helens and Gifford Pinchot National Forest area. It was there that Ryan met an important career mentor, Tom McDowell, who founded and was former chief of the North Country and the Volcano Rescue Team.

In January 2005, Ryan’s career as a firefighter paramedic for Walla Walla Fire Department began. He chose Walla Walla not only for the variety and complexity of calls he experienced during medic school, but mainly the family values of that specific department—respect, laughter, comradery, training, and professionalism. He was proud to be there, to serve his community and make lifelong friends.

During his career at the WWFD, Ryan was part involved with the Every 15 Minute Program, “Chief for a Day” custom helmets, the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, Local 404 Christmas Delivery, and the IAFF FF Motorcycle Group. He created shirt and hat designs for his fire family, covered OT, made himself available for state mobilizations, and furthered his career and training any chance he got. He exemplified PMA, Positive Mental Attitude, and he mentored many paramedic students. In 2023, he earned the recognition and promotion to an engineer position on his shift. Even if the medics were busy, he would assist in any way he could with medical calls to help balance the work load.

Outside of his career, he found joy in being a son, brother, uncle, nephew, parent, husband, and friend. No matter how tiring his shifts were, while off duty he was always present. He was an extraordinary family man and an exceptional father. Summiting mountains, participating in running events, hiking, camping, lake life, sitting by the fire, and exploring the countryside with family and friends were his way to recharge. He cherished these moments and created long-lasting memories with his loved ones. He truly left a lasting impression on many and will always be remembered.