Geneva FD honors six outgoing firefighters

Six Geneva firefighters were honored during a special get together at the Geneva Community Center on the evening of Saturday, Aug. 15. Fire Chief Curt Boswell had suggested to the Star Eagle that, “Axes will be involved, so you might want to be there.”

 

The axes in question were custom, laser-engraved cherry wood with a handle wrapped in red and black 550 paracord with a Turk’s head knot. Words on the blades showed the names of the retiring firefighters, what town they served, and the number of years of service they had provided. Each man was called up in turn to receive his award; each spoke his thanks. Al Beenken introduced each honoree to applause and handed out the majority of the recognitions, which included a card, a plaque, and the specially engraved wooden axe. 

 

“To Greg Bartsch, from the Geneva Fire Department, for 50 years of service, we present this award to you, Greg, for your service, also from the City of Geneva.”

 

After announcing, “To Daryl Paulson, from the Geneva Fire Department, for 51 years of service,” Beenken ad-libbed “but if you need to, you and Greg can battle that one out because he’s so close to 51.” A round of laughter followed.

 

Of Dale Boverhuis, who was also Bartch’s assistant chief, Beenken said, “From the Geneva Fire Department for 32 years of service, and with all of our thanks. Thank you, Daryl.” He was quickly corrected by the crowd, “Sorry, I just gave Daryl the award a moment ago, I meant Dale.” Everyone in the audience, including Dale Boverhuis, laughed as he received his ax.

 

Of Craig Christenson, who also gave 32 years of service, Beenken said, “From the City of Geneva and the Geneva Fire Department for 32 years of service–but who’s counting.”

 

Of John Warnke, who gave 27 and one half years of service: “From the City of Geneva and the Geneva Fire Department.” Someone from the crowd said, “He can have some of Craig’s extra year.” Followed by another round of laughter.

 

Of Rick Seath, who gave 27 years of service: “From the City of Geneva and the Geneva Fire Department for all your years of service.”

 

After the ceremony, Windsor pork chops were served, accompanied by sweet corn, potato and macaroni salads. Mayor Steven Bailey, who attended the recognition ceremony, admitted, “Losing six guys around the same time isn’t ideal, but I’m not too worried. We still have 13 guys in the department.”

 

Firefighter Lonnie Bartsch said, “We are looking for new firefighters, and these guys and gals that are thinking of joining, I want them to remember, if you live out of town, but want to be a member, we can work with that. Currently we have one guy who is 17 and can’t join till he’s 18. We’re going to work with him. Just talk to any Ellendale fireman if you’re interested in joining. We’ll see what we can come up with.”