(Sylvie Belmond | CLAIR – Simi Valley, CA) — The Ventura County Fire Department (VCFD) and the greater community are mourning the loss of Engineer Thomas “Tommy” James Daniel Minadeo, who passed away on March 7, 2025, after a courageous battle with job-related cancer. Minadeo, 32, dedicated nearly a decade to protecting the residents of Ventura County, leaving behind a legacy of bravery, dedication, and service.
A Life of Service and Commitment
Minadeo’s passion for fire fighting began early. A graduate of Royal High School in Simi Valley and Oxnard Community College with a degree in fire sciences, he was deeply committed to his profession. He participated in the Fire Cadet program with VCFD in 2010, served as a Wildland Explorer with the Angeles National Forest from 2010 to 2012, and worked with the Little Tujunga Hotshots from 2013 to 2014. His journey continued with VCFD, where he started as a seasonal fire control worker in 2015, progressing to a full-time firefighter in 2017 and earning a promotion to engineer in 2022, according to the Ventura County Fire Department.
During his career, Minadeo worked at multiple stations, including Truck 54 in Camarillo and Station 45 in Simi Valley, his final assignment. Known for his dedication to training and mentorship, he was involved in various training cadres, specializing in ladders, hose operations, and wildland firefighting, the Ventura County Fire Department said on its website.
Honoring a Hero
On March 7, a solemn bunting ceremony was held at Fire Station 45 in Simi Valley, where the Ventura County Fire Department Honor Guard led a moving tribute. Black and purple bunting draped across the fire station signified the department’s collective grief and respect for their fallen colleague. A wreath and framed photograph of Engineer Minadeo were placed at the base of the station’s flagpole, followed by a flag ceremony honoring his sacrifice, as reported by Ventura County Supervisor Jeff Gorell.
“Tommy was part of our fire family for nearly 10 years, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with us in response to our community’s public safety needs,” said Fire Chief Dustin Gardner. “We now stand with Tommy’s mother, Diana Minadeo; fiancé, Vanessa Gubbels; brother, Anthony; and sister, Jackie Minadeo-Spittler, in grieving his passing and supporting each other,” the Ventura County Fire Department Chief said in a news release.
In recognition of his sacrifice, flags at all fire stations were lowered to half-staff, and sworn personnel wore mourning bands over their badges. An Honor Guard has been assigned to stand watch with Minadeo’s family until his memorial service, which as of March 13 had to be scheduled. The department said on vcfd.org that it will provide updates to ensure that all who wish to pay their respects have the opportunity to do so.
The Impact of Firefighter Cancer
Minadeo’s passing is a tragic reminder of the dangers firefighters face beyond the flames. Exposure to hazardous materials, smoke, and toxins significantly increases the risk of job-related illnesses. Despite these risks, Minadeo and countless others dedicated themselves to protecting their communities.
“Firefighters work in a dangerous profession. We know the risks, and we go anyway because we share a commitment to protect our community,” Chief Gardner said in a statement. “That doesn’t make it any easier when you lose a good firefighter, family member, and human being like Tommy Minadeo.
A Legacy That Lives On
As Ventura County honors Tommy Minadeo, his legacy remains in the lives he touched and the safety he provided. His dedication to service, mentorship, and bravery will never be forgotten.
The community continues to mourn Minadeo’s loss, reflecting on his impact on those around him. As plans for his memorial service are finalized, his family and the department will ensure that all who wish to honor him have the opportunity to do so.
For updates go to vcfd.org
