UPDATE: Local Firefighter Remembered for Faith and Generosity

Darren Rockett, a 14-year veteran of the Long Beach Fire Department, died Nov. 6 from work-related injuries.

Rockett joined the LBFD in September of 1997, serving as a firefighther at Station 10 and 11. Rockett was then promoted to Fire Engineer in June of 2002, serving at fire stations 11-C and 18-C.

Rockett, at the time of his death, served as the life safety inspector for all high-rise buildings in Long Beach as a part of the Fire Prevention Bureau. 

Having graduated from Van Nuys High School in 1981 and studying fire technology at Santa Ana College, Rockett was known for his leadership involvement with the LBFD Rescue Youth Program.

At the youth program, he worked closely with at-risk teenagers throughout the city.

During his career, Rockett received a number of service awards, including nine LBFD Commendations, two LBFD Unit Citations, two Los Angeles County Unit Citations, and one LA County Meritious Award. 

In 2005, Rockett was named LBFD Firefighter of the Year.

“Darren was an extraordinary individual,” said LBPD public information officer Steve Yamamoto.

Rockett was an influential member of his church, serving as a deacon under Pastor Wayne Chaney Jr. at the Antioch Church of Long Beach.

Rockett died at Los Alamitos Medical Center last Sunday, just four days before his 48th birthday on November 10.

He is survived by his wife of 22 years, Jeanne, his father Victor, and daughters Tiffany, Alyse, Sydney, and Daryn. 

A memorial service honoring the firefighter is set for Nov. 18 in Los Alamitos.

The service will begin at 11 a.m. at the Cottonwood Church, 4505 Katella Avenue in Los Alamitos, according to Jeff Reeb, Deputy Fire Chief for the Long Beach Fire Department.

There will be a procession preceding the ceremony.