Steven K. Keffer

Adventure Medics Paramedic and Wildland Firefighter Steven K. Keffer passed away on August 8, 2023 after experiencing a medical emergency while in the line of duty.

Keffer was born in Santa Monica, California and raised in Southern California. His childhood was idyllic, full of outdoor adventures and trips to the beach. He and his three sisters were raised by their parents to be self-sufficient and value work. Throughout his childhood, Keffer was heavily involved in sports, including little league, football, and track and field. Additionally, he loved to backpack in California. He and his wife, Lisa, met while he was on duty with the Albuquerque Fire Department during inspections at the mall. While working, he wandered into the store where Lisa worked and the pair shared an instant connection.

Inspired by his grandfather, who was a firefighter, Keffer decided to make a career change and become one himself in 1992. He loved serving his community and helping others and had goals to provide for his family and eventually start his own wildlife division in Phoenix, Arizona. Known for his composure during emergencies, Keffer excelled greatly in his career. He pioneered the first vaccine clinic during the COVID-19 pandemic and was the most experienced medic on the crew, always taking time to train the young firefighters and medics. In August of 2023, Keffer had been tirelessly working the Gila Fire for 21 continuous days. He left to retrieve supplies for cold weather and collapsed before returning, and ultimately passed away.

Lisa currently resides in Arizona with her children, Maclaren, Finlay, Liam and Kayde. As a family, they love to be involved in anything having to do with the outdoors–climbing, hiking, running and biking. Additionally, they love bonding over music. The Keffer family are very involved in the action sports community and are looking forward to serving at their new church. Lisa is eternally grateful to Tunnel to Towers for the life-changing support. Having her mortgage paid off will allow her to continue to homeschool her children without disruption. Finally, Lisa would like others to know that her husband lived for faith, family and the fire department. The Keffer family is resilient and committed to each other as they navigate the tragedy of losing their loved one.

Adventure Medics Paramedic and Wildland Firefighter Steven K. Keffer is survived by his loving wife, Lisa, and his beautiful children, Maclaren, Finlay, Liam and Kayde.

The Tunnel to Towers Foundation has paid off the mortgage of the Keffer family home through the Fallen First Responder Home Program.