Chad Rick Cameron, 52

Chad Rick Cameron passed from this world into the next on Tuesday morning, Dec. 9, after a courageous and determined battle with brain cancer.

Chad, known to many as “Pokey Joe,” was born in Kellogg, Idaho, and graduated from Kellogg High School. Shortly after high school, he began a lifelong commitment to public service, joining the fire service with the Idaho Department of Lands and the U.S. Forest Service Fire. He also volunteered with the Pinehurst and Kellogg fire departments before moving to Alaska.

While attending the University of Alaska Southeast, Chad continued to volunteer in the fire service. He later attended Swedish Paramedic School in Denver, Colo., before returning to Alaska to complete his bachelor’s degree in Marine Biology. Following graduation, Chad began his professional career as a full-time firefighter and paramedic with Capital City Fire/Rescue in Juneau. Through dedication and leadership, he rose through the ranks to Captain and eventually Assistant Chief, and he proudly graduated from the National Fire Academy’s Executive Fire Officer Program. In late 2020, Chad moved to Palmer, Alaska, to serve as Fire Chief for Palmer Fire and Rescue.

Chad had a rare and genuine ability to truly see people — their strengths, their potential and what they could become. He found great purpose in helping others grow into the best versions of themselves. Once Chad set his mind to something, his determination ensured it would be accomplished. He gave the same commitment and care to his family, his department, his friends and his community.

Despite long hours and demanding work, Chad was an exceptionally devoted father. He was actively involved with the Boy Scout troop alongside Hunter and attended every hockey game he possibly could for the kids — always cheering loudly. Chad loved games, Disney, Mickey Mouse, Hawaiian shirts and strawberry Häagen-Dazs ice cream.

Chad was preceded in death by his father, Ricki Cameron. He is survived by his beloved wife, Sheila; his children, Hunter and Elizabeth (Izzy); his mother, Jana; and his sister, Nicki Atha, along with her daughters Brianna, Rylee and Melani.

A celebration of life will be held at 2 p.m. Jan. 2, 2026, at Pinehurst Elementary. A private family interment will take place at Shoshone Memorial Gardens at a later date.

Memories of Chad and messages of condolence may be shared online with his family at www.shoshonefuneralservice.com. Shoshone Funeral Services of the Silver Valley is caring for the Cameron family.