Eric Quitslund

Eric Quitslund passed away unexpectedly early on June 1, 2025, following a medical emergency while battling cancer.

Born in 1959 to Garnie and Bobbie Quitslund, Eric grew up on Bainbridge Island, where his family had homesteaded in the late 1800s. At 17, a fire at Bainbridge Island High School sparked what became a lifelong calling. As he helped salvage books from the library and watched the fire crews at work, he knew he had found his path.

He began as a volunteer/resident firefighter with Poulsbo Fire Department and went on to serve in multiple agencies, including Subase Bangor Fire Department, Poulsbo Fire Department, North Kitsap Fire & Rescue, South Kitsap Fire & Rescue, Clark County Fire District #6, and Clallam Fire District #3. After retiring from the fire service, he continued to share his expertise as an Emergency Manager for the Suquamish Tribe.

Eric was devoted to every organization he served, but he also considered himself more of a free agent - always willing to share, collaborate, and improve the greater system. A firm believer in public stewardship, he advocated for both agency autonomy and thoughtful consolidation. His vision and leadership helped found the Kitsap County Fire Training Consortium, which elevated the level of training across the region.

He also served as an adjunct instructor at Olympic College, spent years leading live-fire training at the Washington State Fire Training Academy in North Bend, and successfully wrote grants that brought millions of dollars in funding for safety equipment and programs to Fire Departments throughout the region.

Words used to describe Eric include transformative leader, mentor, dedication to excellence, kind, advocate, and inspirational. He was much loved and well respected. A gentle giant in every sense, he led with humility and leaves a legacy of excellence.

His commitment of service extended beyond the fire service. Eric served on numerous community boards including the Strategic Advisory Committee for the Poulsbo Fire Department, Facilities and Financial Advisory Committees for the North Kitsap School District, and as Board Chair for West Sound Academy. And the list goes on.

Eric was a devoted family man who cherished his family. The joy and pride in his eyes when he was with his children and grandchildren was unmistakable.

He also loved gardening, riding his Harley, tackling home projects, and lending a hand to any neighbor in need.

He is survived by his loving wife of 44 years, Diane; his son Aaron and grandchildren Sawyer and Payton; his son Timothy and wife Danielle, and their children Landon, Owen, Leo, and Jacob. He is also survived by a large and loving extended family.

Eric was a good man who loved deeply, gave generously, and lived with purpose. He leaves behind a profound legacy. All of us who knew him are altered better because of him.

A memorial service will be held on June 16 at 1:00 PM at the House of Awakened Culture, 7235 NE Parkway, Suquamish. Parking and Shuttle is available from the Clearwater Casino. Thank you to Clearwater and Kitsap Fire Academy.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Eric’s memory to Washington State Council of Firefighters Benevolent Fund, the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, or the Swedish Hospital Cancer Foundation.