Scott William Hall. Courtesy: Berkeley firefighters
Those who knew Fire Captain Scott William Hall of the Berkeley Fire Department will not be surprised to learn that he took command of his first fire truck at age 3. Though not widely verbal at that age, he was already certain of his purpose — quietly steering his toy engine with the same modest determination that would define his 38-year career in public safety, including 34 years of distinguished service with Berkeley Fire.
Hall, 56, passed away peacefully at home on Nov. 28. He leaves behind his wife, Laura, their three adult children, and a legacy of unwavering devotion to his family, his department, and the community he served. In a career marked by dependability, colleagues cannot recall a single day he ever called in sick.
Born in Mill Valley, Hall attended Mills High School before pursuing Emergency Medical Technician training and later paramedic school, where he met Jim Geissinger, a lifelong friend. The two would eventually join the Berkeley Fire Department together.
“Scott was always the guy who asked how your family was doing,” Geissinger recalled. “He remembered every kid’s name. He genuinely cared.”
Captain Hall took tremendous pride in mentoring new recruits, offering guidance with patience, humor, and an unshakeable steadiness. Fellow firefighters say his life revolved around four things: Laura, his family, countless friends and the department he considered a second home. He was known for ending calls the same way every time — with a simple, understated, “All good, babe.”
Not one for overstatement, Captain Hall.
Visitation will be held Saturday, Dec. 6 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at The Santa Rosa Mortuary, 1900 Franklin Street, Santa Rosa.
A service honoring Captain Hall will take place Monday, Dec. 8, at 1 p.m. at the Luther Burbank Center, 50 Mark Springs West Road, Santa Rosa.
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