Assistant Chief, Division 1-B
Deceased:
August 15, 2020
Appointed:
02/20/1960
Pensioned:
05/07/1989 – Division 1B
Services:
PRIVATE
Donations:
IN LIEU OF FLOWERS, PLEASE SEND DONATIONS TO:
Widows, Orphans & Disabled Firefighter’s Fund
PO BOX 41903
Los Angeles, CA 90041
Chief Sloan was such an honest individual that taught me to honor my word. I was a 2 yr. firefighter at old FS-46 and studying for Apparatus Operator. He told me he would get me to FS-14 so I could practice on Truck 14. He was transferred to headquarters and he never forgot his word. I was moved to FS -14 after his transfer. Captain Charley Davis always gave me a bad time about being moved onto his shift by Chief Sloan. But I promoted out of FS-14 and gave him his vacancy back. I saw Chief Sloan throughout my career before he became the fire chief in El Segundo. I always thanked him for leading by example of what someones word means. Rest in peace Chief Sloan .
I was waiting in the hall way for my three whole score at Fire Station three. Chief Sloan had just got done from exercising and he stops (He doesn’t know me from Adam) and talks to me. He said what I like to do before an interview is take three deep breaths and let it out slowly, it will relax you. Him being an AC, I did it and it really does relax you. I always appreciated him for that. He didn’t have to stop and talk to me but he did.
If you look up the definition of class act in the dictionary you will see a picture of Dave Sloan. I was fortunate to work near or for him several times during my career and he showed us what it meant to be a professional fire officer. We also ran across each other a few times in the consulting world after he retired and he never changed a bit. The LAFD and the fire service overall were lucky to have him, he made a difference and he’ll be missed by many!
I am sorry to hear of you passing. You were one of the good guys as far as chief officers I drive you several times when you were in Division 2. You always had a kind word for everyone and a smile on your face. You will be missed by many of us. RIP.
While I never worked for Dave, I knew him and his wife from our time on the Credit Union Board of Directors. and while we were both assigned downtown. A good person who was always a pleasure to be around, and will be missed by many. Rest in Peace my friend.
Rudy McTee
Dave is a classmate. You knew real quick he was smart,( he left the LAPD for the LAFD) and that he was a leader. That leadership continued as he promoted through the LAFD ranks, as Chief of the El Segundo. Fire Department and as a Councilman in Seal Beach. Dave was always ready to help, give advice or tell a corny Okie joke. He set an example for all the members of 2/20/60. May he rest in peace
I first met Dave Sloan in the early 60’s at old fire station 66 when I was a boot fireman and he was a new engineer. He impressed me with his friendly disposition, ever present sense of humor and extreme competence. I knew he was going places. A few years later when our family moved to Seal Beach we became neighbors. Over the years, as he moved up the Department ladder, he became a role model and mentor. Dave was the Bureau of Fire Suppression adjutant when I was “on the pot” for captain. One morning I came home and he had placed a white hat on my porch light to inform me I was being promoted. It was a thoughtful act by a class guy. He retired as an Assistant Chief to become Chief of the El Segundo Fire Department. After retiring from there he became a member of the Seal Beach City Council and eventually served as our mayor. They say nice guys don’t win ballgames but David Sloan was an exception. He will be greatly missed. He was a faithful Christian and I know he is at rest with the Lord. My condolences to Iva and his family.
In 1977, I met Chief David Sloan while I was in high school. He gave me his business card and told me to call him. I called the next day and he invited me to come down to fire Station 33, division 2. Chief Sloan took the time to walk me around engine and truck 33 all the while explaining the LAFD, to me. That launch my endeavor to become the Los Angeles firefighter.
Thank you
Chief Sloan, God Bless and RIP
Awesome story Dave
In 1975 a group of us at 33’s started a study group in preparation for the Engineers exam. While just starting out in the conference room, there was a knock on the door. Chief Sloan walked in and asked if he could have a word with us. We all said absolutely. He introduced us to a study sheet and method of learning all the hydrolic formulas, and numbers that you needed to get down pat. We all gladly adopted his system and used it every day. Everyone of us were promoted off that exam. Reading some of these other comments, it is pretty obvious that Chief Sloan spent a lot of his time and effort to raise up the skill level of many members. Thank you Chief, and may GOD bless you in eternity with HIM!
Chief David Sloan was a courageous , man of a thousand jokes, a solid friend and the man you wanted at your side if the going got tough or if you needed a laugh. He was a standout chief officer. He was one of the good guys.
I too worked with Chief Dave Sloan as a young Firefighter at Fire Station 3. I always appeared composed, professional and in control. It’s difficult to see those that passed on so must, pass on! I will cherish those unique traits Chief Sloan and others willing passed. Dave was a true leader with a subtle yet strong command presence.
Thank you for all of the gifts you provided to so many that crossed your path. Rest In Peace!