William “Bill” Lenzen was born on August 6, 1960, in Southern California to Bill and Sharon Lenzen. The second oldest of six children, his family includes sisters Robin, Marcy, Felicia, and Jill, and his younger brother, Matt. Family meant everything to Bill. He took great pride in his role in the family and was the best son, grandson, brother, uncle, and brother-in-law you could imagine. He was always present, always available, and would not hesitate to give you the shirt off his back. He was built to serve others, and this led him to an esteemed career as a firefighter.

Bill started his career with the Los Angeles County Fire Department (LACOFD) on April 23, 1983. He proudly served at many stations across the county as a firefighter and paramedic and was promoted to his dream job of firefighter specialist-engineer in 1994. His LACOFD home for the next 19 years was Fire Station 17, the “Yard House,” in Whittier, California. This was his home away from home and the station he was best known for. Bill revered being an engineer. His colleagues have told countless stories about how great an engineer he was and how safe and prepared they felt with Bill behind the wheel in charge of the apparatus. The Lenzen family finds great comfort every time we hear his colleagues say with pride, “Bill was my engineer,” as they tell stories about him. He was a mentor to many, and his impact will be felt across the LACOFD community for years to come. After 35 years of dedicated service, Bill retired in 2019.

Bill loved the outdoors and cherished his time at his favorite places on the Colorado River, the Eastern Sierras, and Jackson Hole, Wyoming. He was passionate about boating and fly-fishing and loved sharing these special places with his extended family and friends. Movies could be made and books written about the epic times he spent at these places and many others over the years.
Bill was selfless and humble and always found ways to give back. He cared deeply for people, especially those in need. He put others first and volunteered his time with the Muscular Dystrophy Association and the Alisa Ann Ruch Burn Foundation.

Bill was always upbeat, even during his toughest days, and his call to action was to earn every day. Each day is a gift, and he wanted us to maximize each one we have. Bill left us too soon on December 28, 2023. We think of him every day, and his love will be felt forever. We miss his huge smile, his great laugh, and his deep, caring voice. He’s in a better place now, reunited with family and friends in heaven, and taking care of us all from above. May God bless William “Bill” Lenzen.