"We have lost one of the good ones.  He will be missed by all of us forever," - Obituary

HOLLISTER-  It is with great sadness that the California Statewide Law Enforcement Association (CSLEA), and its affiliate Association of Conservationists (ACE), has learned of the passing of CSLEA-ACE Member Mitchell B. Cox.  Mitch, 55,  passed away at his home in Hollister on January 24, 2016 of a heart attack.

"Mitch was a dedicated conservationist with a heart of gold!" said ACE President Laramie Griffith. "He cared about corps members and was a proven leader, contributing 30 years of state service. We will miss his joyful personality and contagious laugh!"

Mitch joined the California Conservation Corps (CCC) in the late seventies and was a Conservationist I for more than 35 years.   His love for the great outdoors began at an early age.  He loved to fish and hunt.  When he was just 15 years old, Mitch saved a young fishing companion from drowning when their boat capsized and they were both thrown into icy water.  As a result of his heroic action, Mitch received a commendation from George C. Wallace, then Governor of Alabama.

Mitch also was photographed with Governor Jerry  Brown in 1980 as he escorted the governor through an area devastated by fire at Lake Elsinore.  During his dedicated career with CCC, Mitch provided emergency assistance with fires, floods and earthquakes.

"Mitch became a conservationist in 1981," said retired CCC Conservationist II Jimmy Teegardin.  "That is when we first met.  He was wanting to work outdoors and do good for the environment.  When Mitch became a supervisor, he commanded respect and his crews were fiercely loyal.  He developed top notch leaders on his crew.  He had high expectations of his folks, but it was nothing he couldn't do himself or model as a leader. Mitch and I worked on countless projects together over the years, responded to many emergencies together  and taught fire training, flood training and tool/chainsaw training together.  I am heartbroken over his passing, he was a good, good friend to many."

"CCC conservationists devote their careers to taking care of our great state during times of emergency and when things aren't so rough.  The also  assist young adults with finding a great fit in the workplace," said CSLEA President Alan Barcelona.  "Mitch Cox, no doubt, touched lives and had a positive influence on a lot of young people, many of whom have already grown into successful adults.  Our heartfelt thoughts go out to his family, both his immediate family and the CCC."