Erwin Lewis Warren

On Wednesday, September 3, 2025, Erwin Lewis Warren was called home at the age of 72, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born in Portland, Oregon on August 6, 1953, to Emmitt Earl Warren, Jr. and Elouis Warren, Erwin was the firstborn child and quickly grew into the role of protector, leader, and encourager. Shaped by strong family roots and the embrace of his community, he lived a life defined by service, loyalty, and love. As the oldest, Erwin set the standard for academic and professional success for his siblings. They attribute much of their success to the example he set for them, and the words of encouragement he provided.

He attended Portsmouth Elementary, Peninsula Elementary, and Adams High School. Erwin loved sports, especially football and softball.  He carried that same team spirit into every part of his life. While at Adams High, he met the love of his life, Deborah Moore.

On November 3, 1973, Erwin married Deborah. Their marriage was built on loyalty, laughter, and deep devotion. Together, they raised two sons, Erwin Donta Warren, Jr. and Komar Jerado Warren, pouring into them a steadfast love and commitment that would shape generations to come.

Erwin brought this same caring and nurturing skills to his professional life. In 1976, Erwin began his calling as a firefighter, a role he faithfully served for over 30 years with Portland Fire & Rescue. More than a firefighter, he was a leader, trainer, and advocate who helped pave the way for others. His work as a recruitment officer and training specialist left an indelible mark, ensuring that Portland Fire & Rescue reflected the community it serves. Throughout his career, Erwin received numerous awards and honors, including recognition from the Black Firefighters Association, Word is Bond, Morning Star Baptist Church, and former Fire Chief Sara Boone. His passion for mentorship lives on in the Erwin Warren FRIEND Firefighter STEM Summer Camp, inspiring BIPOC youth to pursue careers in firefighting, EMT, and paramedic services. 

Erwin retired from Portland Fire & Rescue in 2006, but continued to serve the bureau after retirement, lending his expertise in recruitment. 

Of all his roles, Erwin most cherished being a father and grandfather. Becoming “Papa” brought out his most joyful, playful, and generous spirit. He loved nothing more than spoiling his grandchildren and watching them grow.

Erwin was the definition of family man. He was the brother who called to check in, the cousin who showed up, the uncle with words of wisdom, and the friend you could always count on. He honored elders, lifted up the young, and showed daily what it meant to live out love in action.

Though we grieve his passing, we rejoice in knowing his legacy lives on in the lives he protected, the firefighters he mentored, the family he loved without condition, and the countless hearts he touched along the way.

Erwin was preceded in death by his parents, Emmitt and Elouis Warren, who now welcome him home.

He leaves to carry forward his legacy: his devoted wife, Deborah Warren; his sons, Erwin Donta Warren (E Tishell Callwood-Warren) and Komar Warren; his brothers, Dale Warren (Armelita Warren), Marlon Warren, Gregory Allen (Christina Allen), and Quinten Warren (Jemima Drummond); his sisters, Judy Brown (Garland Brown), Doreen Scott (Curtis Scott), Janet Warren, and Janell Ephraim (William Ephraim); his beloved grandchildren, Tahjamare Fogle (Diante Fogle), Khali Warren, Khavae Warren, and Khamiya Warren; along with a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends who will forever hold his memory in their hearts.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Erwin Lewis Warren, please visit our floral store.