If you had told me back in 2015 that the little David who was running around Lassen High School was going to grow into one of the very best law enforcement officers we have in our county, I would have shaken my head in disbelief.

You see, much of my time as SRO was spent yelling at him to get in class, get off the tables, and to quit asking me questions. He seemed to know that it annoyed me so he would ask me the most bizarre things over and over again.

Flash forward to the present day and David has grown in so many ways. Watching him being a real grown-up Sheriff Deputy makes me so proud, because he is so good at it.

David is (and always has been) a natural leader and knows how to speak with people. Both traits that suit him well in the field. David is also brave, and extremely hard-working.

Working in an allied agency, David never ceased to amaze me the great investigative mindset that he has. His department, and those that he works with, or alongside, can’t help but like him and acknowledge his hard work.

Perhaps though, my favorite quality of Deputy Lee is his heart for children. Which, to be fair, he has always had.

David consistently volunteers whenever he can for any event that helps kids. This year, Holiday with a Hero, was no exception. The program got a double dose of luck because he also recruited his wonderful wife (and former feature of this article) Meghan.

Two of my favorite people in one spot? Two of my favorite law enforcement officers at the same event? It was a great day to see them together.

And wouldn’t you know, I tasked the two of them to take five, yes FIVE, children shopping at once. Let me tell you – taking one child is fun but is also kind of hard work. Keeping track of their lists, the spending limit and the child themselves, is hard enough.

We had “run out” of first responders and had children that still needed their hero so I asked David if he could take five children shopping with his wife. His answer- an exuberant “Yeah! Let’s do it!” without any hesitation.

Simply a heck yes. Let’s go kids.

I saw them in the store, and they had a system down pat. Their kiddos were smiling ear to ear. That was only possible because of the type of person David is.

And luckily for us, he is still so young. I cannot wait to see what his career brings, but also just how he continues to grow as young man. He has a heart of gold, and it serves him, and our community, well.

I am proud of you, Mr. Lee! You are truly one of the reasons I love where we live.

He started his law enforcement career with the LCSO in 1994 and was elected Sheriff in 2010, 2014, 2018, and 2022.

“When you serve in the public safety profession, your family and your health often take a back seat to your duty to serve the community,” Growdon said.

“At this point in my life, I recognize the need to focus on my health and my family. Without the support of my family, I wouldn’t have been able to accomplish what I have. I want to specifically thank my wife Carol, and our sons Neil and Logan for the sacrifices they have made, and their steadfast love and support over the years.”

“I will miss serving alongside the incredible men and women of the Lassen County Sheriff’s Office and appreciate their dedication to our profession and community more than I could ever express. Lassen County is fortunate to have fine men and women who are willing to serve in such a challenging environment.”

Growdon said he and Carol plan on staying here in Lassen County.

Robbins will also give a a tour of the building at 800 Main Street that is home to his gallery, a vintage structure that has housed, among other things, a bank, a furniture store, a funeral home, and the Lassen County Times newspaper.

The public is welcome to come hear the presentation.

If you are a fan of local history you should join the Lassen Historical Society! Membership is open to anyone with an interest in the history of our area. Through your membership you help preserve local history, while at the same time making a tax-deductible contribution.

Click here to download a membership application.

The society is also looking for docents to work at the Susanville museum. Come to the meeting to find out more or stop by the museum on Weatherlow Street.

Admission to the meeting is free, but seating is limited.

Dr. Moody’s Drug Store in the late 1880’s

Well Worth a Visit

January 3, 1902

Susanville has one establishment possessing a far greater interest for the stranger within her walls than for the permanent dweller therein. It is an establishment the like of which is found in the cities and larger towns, but seldom in places the size of Susanville.

We refer to the establishment of Dr. R. F. Moody, at the corner of Main and Roop streets, where the “Doc” and his son-in-law Geo. Fahrion have gathered together a stock of Indian baskets, bead work, shells, relics and curios, representing many hundreds of dollars and the expenditure of much time, labor and patience as well.

A visit to this establishment will amply repay the time expended, and the Advocate advises its readers who have an hour or two to spare to call there – even though they may be possessed of a well-defined idea that they have seen all there is to be seen.