Memorial Fund for Children of San Jose Firefighter

In the wake of great tragedy, San Jose Fire Station 16 is asking for your support to raise funds for Captain Steve Biakanja as he navigates a new reality following the recent deaths of all three of his children in a terrible auto accident. The funds raised will be used to cover the childrens’ funeral costs, as well as counseling, meals, and various other forms of support for Captain Biakanja and his wife, Thuan.

Captain Biakanja’s daughter, Leigh (14), was a Sea Cadet who enjoyed learning about science and playing softball. Her twin sister Lucy, loved animals, raising chickens and doves as a hobby. Their younger brother, Ben (12), leaves behind his collection of World War II memorabilia, an avid interest of his.

At San Jose Fire, each member of the team is considered family, and in times of need, a family must stand together. Captain Biakanja has stood guard for his community for years, living out the department’s creed of, “For the Kids,” in service to his people. In his time of need, we ask for your assistance for his kids. With your help, we can do our best to ease the burden of this tragedy and to honor the memory of his beloved children.

Thank you in advance for your support. In addition to your financial assistance, please use this page to share your thoughts, love, and fond memories of the children who brought so much light to so many people.

***UPDATE***

8/22/22 - THANK YOU

San Jose Fire Station 16 would like to extend our warmest gratitude to everyone who has donated on behalf of Captain Steve Biakanja and his wife, Thuan. Thank you to all who have shared messages of sympathy, comfort, strength, and hope during this time. The outpouring of love and support for OUR brother is heartwarming and awe-inspiring.

Captain Biakanja is humbled by the kindness and generosity during his time of need. He is sure the funds raised will be more than sufficient to offset the costs they were intended for and has been considering how he may use the remaining money to return the kindness to his community.

His three children, Lucy, Leigh and Ben were students at Carmel Middle School. Each year, the 8th-grade students go on a field trip to Washington D.C. This was a trip that both of his 8th-grade daughters were supposed to attend. Captain Biakanja believes that with sufficient support, he can create a scholarship fund to send three underprivileged students each year from Carmel Middle School to the annual field trip as a way of honoring his children. With your support, he hopes his children’s legacy may live on and continue to bring light and joy to their school even after they’re gone.

We thank you again for the love and support you have shown Captain Biakanja during his time of great tragedy. Please continue to use this page to share your thoughts, your love and your fond memories.