Doug Jirsa

Doug Jirsa, Professional Photographer and co-owner of Lasting Impressions photography studio in Redlands died of a heart attack Tuesday evening, March 22, 2011, at his home in Banning. He is survived by his wife of 44 years, Donna; two Daughters, Dawn M. Fairfield and son-in-law Scott W. Fairfield of Mentone, CA and Diana Jirsa of Talequah, OK; two grandsons, Daniel J. Jirsa and Vance W. Kennedy; and three brothers, Richard H. Jirsa, Jr. of Banning, CA, Terry L. Jirsa of Durango CO and Steven C. Jirsa of Redlands. He was also fortunate to have two nieces, four nephews, and his Godson, Ralph (Trey) Serrano, III in his life. Doug was born in Redlands, CA on April 9, 1948 to parents Richard H. Dick and Betty J. BJ Jirsa, who both preceded him in death nine months ago. He attended Cram Elementary School in Highland, Redlands Junior High, graduating in 1966 from Redlands High School. He married his high school sweetheart on September 3, 1966. He lived in Highland, CA prior to the family move to Redlands in 1960. He moved to Banning, CA in 1977. Doug worked at Andy s Chevron in Redlands before going to work for the City of Redlands as Animal Control Officer. He was a member of Redlands Police Reserve serving as Reserve Officers Range Master, and was a member of the first Police Reserve Basic Post Academy graduating class of 1975 held at Glen Helen Training Center. In 1977 he began working as a Police Officer for the City of Banning and was promoted to Sergeant in charge of the Detective Bureau and also spearheading a Federally funded major crimes task force. In 1980, Doug left his law enforcement career to open his own photography studio. He had developed an interest in photography as first a junior high newspaper photographer, then three years as a high school yearbook photographer. Doug used his photographic talents and expertise during his career as a police officer. Lasting Impressions was founded in Beaumont in 1980, and in 1985 the studio was moved into a larger building he and Donna purchased in Cherry Valley. In 1992 a second studio was opened on State Street in Redlands. With the desire to remain the only photographer for his business, the decision was made to close the Cherry Valley location in 1994. The Redlands studio continues to flourish today, having recently celebrated its 30th anniversary. Doug was, or had been a member, and officer in most cases, of: Masonic Lodge of Redlands, Elks Lodge of Redlands, Exchange Club, Rotary Club, Beaumont Chamber of Commerce, Professional Photographers of America, Professional Photographers of California, Inland Empire Professional Photographers and Videographers. Doug thrived on helping fellow photographers, teaching numerous digital photography workshops throughout the State. He referred to himself and his wife as Pioneers of the Digital Revolution . Doug approached every endeavor with unbridled passion; he lived his life to the fullest. Never stepping away from a challenge, he excitedly tackled new projects often. His most recent passion was his 2002 Chrysler Prowler hotrod, and all things Prowler . He enjoyed taking it to car shows and making new friends of fellow Prowlers . Some of his favorite activities through the years were: Fishing, hunting, trap & skeet shooting, riding motorcycles, scuba diving, driving fast cars, fast boats, water skiing, camping, and traveling with his wife in their motorhome. Doug could fix anything, from cars to computers, and had a remarkable business-sense. Doug didn t want glory or recognition. He cared deeply about his family, being a steadfast friend and serving his customers and community. A man of his word and always ready to lend a helping-hand to anyone in need, Doug certainly left a Lasting Impression with many people. Service will be held at Emmerson-Bartlett Memorial Chapel, 703 Brookside Ave., Redlands, on Thursday, March 31, 2011. Viewing will be at 12:30 with the Celebration of Life Service beginning at 1:00 followed by interment at Desert Lawn Memorial Park in Calimesa. A Celebration of Life gathering will be held at the Redlands Elks Lodge after the service. Those not wishing to go to the cemetery are welcome to go directly to the Elks Lodge. Doug would be honored by the attendance of everyone whose lives he has touched.