SETFA Peer Support

Russ Barstow (SETFA coordinator) (253)230-0740

Upon graduating from Puyallup High School in 1983, I began my twenty-plus year career in semi-trailer and cargo container repair, during the end of that time I spent about seven years as a volunteer with Riverside PCFD 14.  After a few years of being a volunteer firefighter, I thought it might be a nice career change and began testing.  In January of 2005, I was hired by S.E. Thurston Fire, now known as S.E. Thurston Fire Authority (SETFA). I am presently a Lieutenant/MSO on A shift with S.E. Thurston Fire.  I am also an Alumni of the IAFF’s Center of Excellence where I learned not only a lot about myself but more so the importance of behavioral health and wellness of all of us in the role of First Responders. I still reside in Pierce County with my wife and daughter, enjoy doing anything outdoors, and am also on the Board of Commissioners with Graham Fire.  I feel very fortunate to be part of the Thurston County Peer Support Consortium and look forward to helping in any way possible.

Gabe Lakin (253)203-8723

My name is Gabe Lakin. I am originally from Washington, and I have worked for SE Thurston Fire Authority since 2016. Prior to 2016, like many, I started the fire service as a volunteer and worked for private ambulance company. I live in Montesano with my wife, Bridget, and our two children. We enjoy being outdoors and spending our summers camping. I believe the PEER support program for our members and including family members, is crucial in maintaining a healthy home and work environment. If you or a family member are having a hard time, whether it be mental health or a medical diagnosis, I am available. If you need to talk or get help with accessing resources, I am here to help and ready to assist.

Jeremy mclellan (509)428-9575

My name is Jeremy McLellan. I am a native to the PNW. I have been married for 22 years and have 3 children. I am currently serving as a career FF with SE Thurston Fire Authority. I have been with them for 5 years. Prior to a career in the fire service, I was a pastor for 12 years in Nevada and Washington state. I have had the opportunity to travel around the world to places like Thailand, Uganda, Zambia, Hungary, and Mexico. I myself have had personal and substance abuse struggles. I was able to overcome these with the help of others both peers and professionals. I am looking forward to helping others in any way that I can.

Trace Florek (360)742-4648

I grew up in Yelm and graduated from Yelm HS. In school I dedicated time and interest learning about sports medicine. After doing a little physical therapy myself, I learned that I really enjoy helping and caring for others. With that interest, I attended my first two years of college at the University of Dubuque in Dubuque, IA. Here I played college baseball while studying Exercise Science. I later graduated Eastern Oregon University with my Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Activity and Health with a concentration in Exercise Science. While working in a physical therapy clinic and volunteering my time in other PT settings I learned from others how enjoyable firefighting is. I then volunteered for a short year with SETFA before being hired in August 2022. I feel fortunate to be able to serve and give back to the community that I grew up in all my life. In my free time you’ll find me spending time with wife and two dogs while dirt bike riding, hunting and camping. I look forward to being able to help all that I can in any way that I can.