Holly MatkinCamp Sherman, OR – Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) Senior Deputy David “Dave” Blann died of natural causes at his home on Friday, according to his department.
Sisters Camp Sherman Fire District medics were called to the 63-year-old deputy’s residence at approximately 5 a.m., JCSO Undersheriff Marc Heckathorn said in a press release later that evening.
They were told that Deputy Blann was unresponsive, and that someone was in the process of administering CPR.
“Upon arrival, medics continued advanced medical care but ultimately Senior Deputy Blann was pronounced dead,” Undersheriff Heckathorn said.
Law enforcement officers from a multitude of nearby agencies flocked to the fallen deputy’s home in the wake of his death.
Investigators ultimately determined that Deputy Blann died of natural causes.
“He was getting up to go to work when we suspect he had a heart attack,” Jefferson County Sheriff Jim Adkins told KTVZ.
More than 50 emergency service vehicles participated in an impromptu procession from the deputy’s residence to a funeral home in Madras, according to Undersheriff Heckathorn.
Deputy Blann was hired by the JCSO as a part-time deputy in November of 1995.
In April of 1997, he began working full-time for the department, and was assigned as the Camp Sherman Resident Deputy.
“Since 1997 Senior Deputy Blann has been the face of Jefferson County and the Sheriff’s Office in the greater Camp Sherman area,” Undersheriff Heckathorn noted.
He also plowed local roadways in the winter months, and was the coordinator of the department’s search and rescue team.
“Senior Deputy Blann is irreplaceable in the community and our office is devastated with his sudden and unexpected passing,” the undersheriff continued. “Senior Deputy Blann represented the Sheriff in a dignified and professional manner but was known for his love of the outdoors, humor, and compassion for people.”
Inside his home, Deputy Blann displayed a “phrase that sums up who he was” on one of his walls, Undersheriff Heckathorn said.
“BLANN’S RULES TO LIVE BY,” the sign read. “1. Have FUN! 2. Make someone smile. 3. See Rule #1.”
“Members of the Jefferson County Sheriff Office are in mourning and we miss our coworker, friend, and brother,” Undersheriff Heckathorn said.
Even though he loved his job, Deputy Blann was also looking forward to retirement, Sheriff Adkins told KTVZ.
“He actually was in my office last week, because he had on his phone a countdown to when he was going to retire in two years,” the sheriff said. “He had it down to the days, hours and minutes.”
Deputy Blann’s daughter, Kelcy Rivas, paid tribute to her father in a touching Facebook post on Monday.
“My dad loved what he did and who he served with every day. He loved his community even more. Hands down, he was the best!” Rivas wrote. “We are heartbroken but want to thank all for your thoughts, prayers and for sharing your memories. Missing him won’t ever go away but knowing he has made a positive impact on so many helps to ease some of that hurt.”
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office Senior Deputy David “Dave” Blann, both blood and blue. Thank you for your service.
Rest easy, hero. We’ll hold the line from here.