Engineer– Fire Station 104
Deceased:
05/24/2021
Appointed:
04/30/1966
Pensioned:
06/18/1992 – FS 104
Services:
PRIVATE
Donations:
IN LIEU OF FLOWERS, PLEASE SEND DONATIONS TO:
Widows, Orphans & Disabled Firefighter’s Fund
PO BOX 41903
Los Angeles, CA 90041
this has been a sad day for lost friends I met brian at 20s when I was a young auto fireman and was bad at it he helped me improve it was a time when 20s was the f troop of batt 11 the men that were there I would not trade the experience for anything brian you were funny and one of my mentors also thanks for the beers in the ice maker
I worked with “Hitch” at “Old 29’s” on another shift, and our friendship has continued since then. Most recently we saw each other at “Fireman Breakfasts” at both “Mimi’s” in Thousand Oaks and at the “Firehouse Cafe” in Simi. Hitches “Man Cave’ was a Railroad Caboose in his backyard, decorated with Fire Dept. memorabilia. He also had a vegetable garden and chickens for their eggs, which he both ate and sold. He would come by our house in his “Jeepster” and pick up barrels of Horse Manure to fertilize his garden. Rest in peace Hitch.
I never worked (on duty) with Brian during my career, but I have worked alongside him on many projects at both of our houses over the years. I first met Brian in the same apartment complex we lived in in Canoga Park. We were about the same age, we’re both married, and had one young daughter. I thought he wasn’t employed because he always seemed to be home. I finally asked him if indeed he had a job, and he shared with me that he had not only a job, but a career with the LAFD. As we got closer he encouraged me to take the upcoming entrance exam. I did, got accepted and spent the next 30 years on the job. What a stroke of “luck” to be living in that same complex at the same time he was there. I owe him so much. One of Brian’s greatest attributes was his willingness to help anyone at any time with almost any project or problem around their house, from fellow fireman to neighbors. His heart was big. He surely was a great guy. May he rest in peace!
I also worked with Brian and RTP at “Old 29’s”. “Hitch” was an old Mountain Patrol guy. Great wisdom and humor! Every Sunday morning, if Brian was coming on-duty, ‘Native American’ music would be heard trough the station P.A. at precisely 0630. RIP Hitch.
I was on the same shift at old 29’s “c” shift with Brian. It was a time when we went to booming fires, drilled hard and really had fun both on duty and off duty. We spent time fishing at June Lake and San Felipe trips. When he moved that caboose to his backyard I thought he was crazy, but that was Hitch. He will be missed.
Brian was an inspiration in my life, (blame Brian for the outcome). He was a lot of fun to be around with and I learned a lot from him, Ed Teter, Dana Lane, Lyle Neely and the rest of the guys on the C at 20’s. Brian taught me how to cheat on 99 so the engine was stuck with the dishes.. The peanuts and ice machine had a lot of memorable stories that I hold fondly to myself. Brian was a great firefighter and a real friend to all. Thanks Brian, for sharing a part of your life with me. Luv you man!
I worked with Brian at 104’s. At the time, I was a young Firefighter and He was a seasoned Engineer. Though our worlds were very much different( me being old enough to be his kid) Brian always treated me as his equal. That meant a lot to me. Brian was very knowledgeable and was always willing and eager to teach us all.. Driving to work and knowing Brian was going to be there, always made the day much better. He would always bring in Avocados, Oranges and Fresh eggs, which we all gobbled down, not leaving any for the “Off Shifters”. If there is one thing that characterizes Brian to me, it was his Humility and Kindness to others. May you rest in peace Brian!!
To the Hitchings.
Sorry for your loss.
God has another firer fighter named Brian in heaven to fight the evils of the devil’s fire..
Tim Powers, Amie Hitching’s friend and the son of a NYC firer fighter.
Love to all