Former Atascadero Fire Chief Michael McCain remembered for leadership and service

By Staff Report · Wed May 27 2026

ATASCADERO — Atascadero Fire & Emergency Services announced the passing of former Fire Chief Michael Paul McCain, who died peacefully on May 17.

McCain began his fire service career with Santa Barbara County Fire Department before joining the Atascadero Fire Department in 1971. Over nearly three decades, he rose through the ranks and retired as Fire Chief in 2000.

According to the department, Chief McCain was known for mentoring future fire service leaders, with firefighters hired during his tenure later serving as chief officers throughout the region, including departments in Templeton, San Miguel, San Luis Obispo, Morro Bay, Five Cities, Paso Robles, Diablo Canyon, Atascadero State Hospital and Santa Barbara County.

A procession led by Atascadero Fire will escort McCain’s family from Chapel of the Roses to Pine Mountain Cemetery on Friday, May 29, for an 11 a.m. graveside service. Family members are encouraging attendees to wear Hawaiian-themed clothing in honor of McCain’s love of bright colors and casual attire.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Angelman Syndrome Foundation in McCain’s memory.