Community Corner
5 First Responders Who Left A Lasting Legacy In San Anselmo-Fairfax
The service and commitment of these remarkable individuals continue to inspire today's firefighters, police officers and EMTs.
San Anselmo-Fairfax is fortunate to have dedicated first responders — police officers, firefighters, EMTs, dispatchers, and search and rescue teams —who work tirelessly to protect and serve our community. Their commitment carries forward the legacy of those who paved the way, demonstrating courage and dedication every day.
In partnership with T-Mobile, Patch is honoring the first responders who came before them—individuals whose impact continues to shape San Anselmo-Fairfax. Today, we’re highlighting five remarkable figures who left a lasting mark on our community.
1. Officer Mark Hedeen (San Rafael Police Department)
Reserve Police Officer Mark Hedeen served the San Rafael Police Department with extraordinary dedication for more than 55 years before his retirement in March 2024. As a steadfast presence in the community, Hedeen embodied integrity and commitment, earning the respect of colleagues and residents alike. At his retirement, he was honored with an American flag flown over the Public Safety Center and offered his final “10-7-OD” call, marking the end of an era. His remarkable tenure stands as a testament to selfless service, and his legacy continues to inspire generations of officers who follow in his footsteps.
2. Lead Dispatcher Anndora Lee (San Rafael Police Department)
Prior to her March 2025 retirement, Lead Dispatcher Anndora Lee was the steady voice behind the scenes for 34 years at the San Rafael Police Department, guiding officers and calming callers through thousands of emergencies. Beginning in records and rising through the ranks, she became a cornerstone of the department, serving on SWAT operations, mentoring dispatchers and supporting peers through critical incidents. Known for her grace under pressure and unshakable professionalism, Anndora set the standard for what it means to be a first responder. Her voice may be off the radio now, but her influence will echo for years to come.
3. Sergeant Jeannette Prandi (Marin County Sheriff's Office)
Sergeant Jeannette Prandi broke barriers as the first female sergeant in Marin County law enforcement, serving with heart and distinction. Throughout her decades-long career, she championed the well-being of children, becoming a trusted advocate for youth who needed a voice. After she died of cancer in 1997, a group of Marin County public and private agencies partnered to create the Jeannette Prandi Children’s Center, a safe, welcoming space where young survivors of abuse are met with compassion and care. Sergeant Prandi’s legacy lives on in every child protected, every case handled with sensitivity and every officer inspired by her pioneering spirit.
4. Fire Captain Rick Addicks (Ross Valley Fire Department)
Fire Captain Rick Addicks dedicated 22 years to protecting Marin County, serving with distinction in the Ross Valley, Ross and Stinson Beach Fire Departments. A firefighter, attorney, mentor and mental health advocate, Addicks left an indelible impact through his leadership on urban search and rescue teams, labor negotiations and peer support programs. His passing in 2024 from occupational cancer deeply shook the fire service community. Captain Addicks’ unwavering dedication, both on the front lines and behind the scenes, continues to inspire those he led and served beside.
5. Captain Kyle Heard (Rancho Adobe Fire Protection District)
Captain Kyle Heard served the Rancho Adobe Fire Protection District for 21 years with courage, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to his community. As a responder to California’s wildfires and a mentor to new firefighters, he exemplified leadership both on and off the fireline. Known for his meticulous care of district equipment and deep devotion to his family, Heard was more than a firefighter—he was a friend, a father and a husband. His sudden passing in 2023 left a profound void, but his legacy of service, strength, and kindness lives on in those he trained and loved.
Know a first responder — past or present — who’s making a difference in San Anselmo-Fairfax? We’d love to hear about them! Click here to nominate them to be featured on Patch.
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