For about half a century N. David Graf has volunteered for the Lake Bluff Fire Department, never keeping a tab of how many cases he worked on.
“I never kept track because it would frighten me if I knew how many hours I put in,” Graf quipped.
Graf, who joined the department in 1974 and was eventually promoted to its chief in 2006, retired earlier this month. Assistant Fire Chief Gregg Marsh is the new leader of the roughly 50-member volunteer crew with John Krumsee moving up to be second in charge.
“I feel the department is in a really good and strong place and Gregg and John are ready to take the reins and move the department even further forward,” Graf said of his decision to move on.
The retirement culminates a multi-pronged journey of village service for Graf, who also served as Lake Bluff trustee, a two-term village president, and was the first chairman of the Central Lake County Water Agency.
“This is an outstanding achievement and it is difficult to put into words the level of commitment, courage, and leadership it takes to dedicate so much of yourself and for so long especially as a volunteer in such a challenging position,” Village President Regis Charlot said at the Oct 14 village board meeting.
As part of the recognition of Graf’s service, Charlot announced the Village’s fire station (dedicated in 1988 when Graf was village president) for him. Indicating his surprise, Graf put his hand over his mouth.
“You shouldn’t have done that,” Graf told Charlot. “But I’ll take it.”
Graf added after the meeting, “That was such a surprise to me. I’m still recovering from that wonderful shock.”
After receiving a series of standing ovations, Graf looked back on his time as the leader of the volunteer department.
“We have accomplished a tremendous amount in these many years with our fire department and I think it is only an example with what can be done with our wonderful community and the makeup of our people,” he said. “Volunteerism is what makes this town work.”
Graf then praised his fellow firefighters.
“It is a wonderful group of friends that care of each other and have a common purpose and goal of service,” he said.
Moving up to fire chief is Marsh, a 37-year department veteran.
Charlot said Marsh received the promotion noting his attitude, aptitude and experience.
“He has excelled in all previously held fire department posts,” Charlot said.
Marsh then spoke briefly at the meeting and praised Graf, whom he described as a mentor and friend.
“It’s up to me to continue that legacy and I hope I am up to it,” he said.
Daniel I. Dorfman is a freelance reporter for Pioneer Press.
