It is with great sadness we share the news of Alyson Hart’s passing. She was a pillar of CARDA since joining in 1999 – searcher, Board member, Training Group Leader, Sponsor, Evaluator, representative to California Office of Emergency Services Committees.
We pass along the words from her husband Andrew Rateaver: After a long and valiant fight, Alyson Hart lost her battle to cancer Wednesday, October 22, 2025. She passed at her Martinez home on the hill, amidst the trees and grasses, surrounded and loved by her husband, family, and two dogs. As she did in life, Alyson threw everything she had at this fight. All the while, carrying on with dignity and concern for her family.
After serving more than 25 years with the Berkeley Police Department, Alyson continued to serve as a search and rescue canine handler, group leader, and mentor with CARDA, the California Rescue Dog Association and the Alameda County Sheriffs Office Search and Rescue Team. She supported the state search and rescue program through task force work, and was a responder to the 2018 Camp Fire as well as other disasters large and small. In the last few years, Alyson began a career with the Institute of Canine Forensics. ICF provides specially trained canines for historic and prehistoric human remains detection. Alyson and her canine partner, Bryn had been deployed locally, regionally and out of state. Alyson loved this new line of work, and found enjoyment in this highly specialized advocation. Even in the midst of her challenges, in 2024 Alyson and Andrew were able to visit Yosemite again. They also flew to Montana to visit Glacier National Park for the first time. They had “always wanted to see Montana…” At Glacier, Alyson was able to hike a portion of the famed Highline trail. She was very proud of that. Although these past few years may have diminished her physically, they are only a tiny part of a productive life of service to others. A life filled with love for her family and dogs and a passion for outdoor travel. Alyson’s time came much too soon. But what she accomplished in that time is amazing. Her family would like to thank friends, colleagues and neighbors for their generous support. No services pending. In her memory, donations can be made to the following organizations:
The California Rescue Dog Association at https://www.carda.org/donate/
Institute for Canine Forensic www.icfk9.org Donate button that goes to Pay Pal or by check to the Institute for Canine Forensics P.O. Box 620699 Woodside, CA 94062
Please indicate the donation is in memory of Alyson Hart
Notes to the family may be sent to: Andrew Rateaver 976 Calle Verde Martinez, CA 94553