Tuesday, 27 October 2026, 5:12
The Sonoma Valley is mourning the loss of Daren Bellach the retired chief of the Kenwood Fire Department. Officials from the Schell Vista Fire Protection District announced his passing over the weekend confirming that he died following a dedicated two year fight against bladder cancer. Local leaders emphasized that his contributions extend far beyond his official tenure and titles.
Bellach began his journey with the Kenwood Firefighter Association at age eighteen. He steadily advanced through the ranks serving as captain assistant chief and eventually chief in 2017. His leadership proved essential when the department transitioned to twenty four seven staffing. After retiring in 2024 he remained deeply involved in training and community outreach.
Throughout his career Bellach wore multiple hats including fire mechanic investigator driver trainer and volunteer academy coordinator. His greatest impact stems from his commitment to mentoring new recruits. Family members recall how his calm expertise immediately eased the anxiety of patients and fellow responders alike.
"They hear they are in a scary situation and they are uptight and the paramedics would come and they would say Oh gosh Daren is here. The patient would say Daren is here. And the ambulance driver would say Oh thank god Daren is here" said his wife Michelle.
The local firefighting network mobilized quickly to assist Bellach and his family during his treatment. Volunteers organized meal trains and launched a GoFundMe campaign that successfully raised thousands of dollars to cover medical rehabilitation and dietary expenses. This collective effort highlights the tight knit nature of Sonoma County emergency services.
In honor of ongoing public safety education the Sonoma Valley Fire District will host its annual Community Open House on Sunday October 18. The free event takes place at Station 1 located at 630 Second Street. Residents can expect hands on CPR training live rescue demonstrations antique fire engine rides and interactive exhibits designed for children. Organizers aim to strengthen ties between first responders and the neighborhoods they serve.
Kenwood has relied on volunteer fire protection for decades before transitioning to professional staffing models. Bellach represented a bridge between traditional volunteerism and modern emergency response standards. His work helped establish training protocols that continue to shape current operations across the valley.
Daren Bellach leaves behind a measurable legacy of preparedness and compassion. His dedication to developing skilled firefighters ensures that future generations will inherit a stronger safety net. Communities are encouraged to attend the upcoming open house to learn more about local emergency resources while paying tribute to a life well spent in service.
