Community mourns loss of dedicated first responders Kevin Skinner and Brenda Van Ohmering

The San Diego County Board of Supervisors convened on January 28, 2025, for a meeting marked by solemn tributes to three individuals who made significant contributions to their communities. The session began with an adjournment in memory of Kevin Skinner, a dedicated first responder who tragically lost his life while serving the community. Skinner, a 25-year veteran of the Orange County Fire Authority, passed away from cardiac arrest after heroically searching for victims during a kitchen fire in Laguna Niguel on January 5, 2025. He was remembered for his unwavering commitment and service, leaving behind his wife, Lucia, and three children.

The meeting continued with a tribute to Joan Elaine Eberle, a beloved resident of Fallbrook, California, who passed away on November 28, 2024. Eberle, 69, was celebrated for her active involvement in community service, including her roles in the Fallbrook Chamber of Commerce and as Fallbrook's Honorary Mayor from 2023 to 2024. Her legacy of kindness and generosity was highlighted, along with her successful career as a fashion model and her passion for travel and gardening.

Lastly, the Board honored Brenda Ann Van Ohmering, known for her faith and dedication to family and community. Brenda's life was characterized by her deep love for Jesus and her involvement in local initiatives, including the establishment of Oma's Pumpkin Patch in Lakeside, California. She was remembered for her warmth and kindness, leaving a lasting impact on her community and inspiring future generations.

The meeting concluded with expressions of sympathy for the families of these remarkable individuals, acknowledging their contributions and the void left in their communities. The Board emphasized the importance of remembering their legacies and the values they embodied.