After relocating to California in 1963, Leslie "Les" Erickson almost immediate signed on as a fire fighter volunteer, and in 1968, he joined the Ventura County Fire Department.  This was the fulfillment of a dream he had since childhood.  He loved every aspect of the department, but especially enjoyed working as an engineer.  Known affectionately as "Mr. Clean" by his fellow servicemen, he spent many hours under the engines helping firemen trace hydraulic  lines and encouraging them in their testing.  Les helped design the department seal and did the gold leafing on the department fleet.  His input was always requested when the county ordered new equipment.  He was referred to as the "best engineer Ventura County ever had," but soon moved to the rank of captain due to financial demand.  Les had many passions other than being a part of the fire service, which included traveling, camping, boating, and devoting time to his children.  He suffered from a fatal heart-attack at the age of 43.