Cal Fire Battalion Chief's Burial Draws Hundreds

Firefighters and other first responders from around the North Bay attended memorial services for Cal Fire battalion chief Karen Jones Shubin, who died Jan. 23 after a two-year battle with cancer.

Shubin's funeral took place Tuesday morning at St. Mary's Episcopal Church in Napa and the burial was at Valley Memorial Park in Novato.

Shubin, 47, worked for Cal Fire for 29 years, mostly in the Sonoma-Lake-Napa Unit, and most recently out of the Glen Ellen station, according to Division Chief David Shew. He said Shubin was diagnosed with brain cancer two years ago and did not go back to work after that.

She is survived by her husband David, a fire captain in San Rafael, and their four children. Battalion Chief Ted Peterson of the Novato Fire District said Shubin has a brother-in-law with Novato Fire and one with Santa Rosa Fire.

Shubin grew up and lived in Napa.

Hundreds of people have left messages on Cal Fire's Facebook page honoring Shubin, calling her a "very dedicated professional" and "fun."

Among the messages: 

"You fought the good fight — rest easy now, you've earned it."

"R.I.P Chief. Thank you for your service." 

"See you on roll call."

"Too young to die."

"It is always sad when we lose our heroes."

The messages have come from firefighters as far away as Sonora, Mexico; Ventura; Madera; and Santa Cruz.

For those who would like to help defray the family's medical and other costs, send donations to the Shubin Family Trust, Rabobank, 700 Trancas St., Napa, CA 94558.

Did you know Karen Shubin? Tell us in the comments.