Manitowoc Deputy Fire Chief Karl Koch reported to work at his office in City Hall for the final time this morning as he’s officially off the clock end of the business day and retired.
In an interview with Seehafer News Koch says this is a day he’s been planning for since day one.
“In firefighting, you always have an endpoint because it’s of those careers that you won’t be able to do forever,” he explained. “In the last year, I realized that I need to give my notice and say I’m retired.”
Koch was raised in Manitowoc and left for a while but returned in 1993 and hired out with Manitowoc Fire and Rescue.
He recalled what he describes as something unique that he will cherish forever.
“I remember walking to the firehouse the first day and the smell of the coffee pot brewing. It was like being home,” Koch said. “It was a firehouse. People welcoming me and the camaraderie that developed quickly and has never left. I’ll be forever grateful.”
The MFRD Deputy Fire Chief recalls that first fire call he went on with former Lt. Kuehn who point-blank told him “This is a real fire. Be ready.” Koch admitted being nervous but will always be thankful for Lt. Kuehn’s “calm demeanor” that put him at ease and helped him get through it.
The biggest change he’s seen in 28 years has been technology.
“We used to study streets. We’d know every little nook and cranny of a street or address was,” he explained. “Now with GPS units and computer-aided dispatching our routes are all mapped out for us. Reports are now done in the vehicle on an iPad. It’s all electronic reporting.”
The best piece of advice he can give to those following in his footsteps?
“You are there to help protect and serve the public. I can’t think of a more honorable career than that.”
Koch tells us he’s looking forward to spending more time with his family, relaxing, frequenting the golf course more often, and enjoying his most passionate of hobbies, woodworking, and carpentry.
That being said, Koch told Seehafer News he has spent “28 years with the Manitowoc Fire and Rescue Department. It’s been exciting and I’m going to miss it.”
