After over 27 years with the Penticton Fire Department, Captain Wayne McKenzie is hanging up his helmet.
His final day with the fire department was Friday, May 8. Ahead of him now is a long-awaited retirement.
Before his 27-and-a-half years as a career firefighter, McKenzie served for years as a paid-on-call firefighter. Deputy chief Chris Forster said McKenzie was a very valuable member of their team.
“(He is) a very committed individual,” said Forster.
READ MORE: Long-time Penticton firefighter, Mike Richards retires
In addition to being one of the key components of their first responder training, McKenzie was very active in fire department fundraising efforts and initiatives.
However, his work didn’t stop with the fire department.
For years, McKenzie taught CPR in the community, and was also an active member of the Apex Mountain ski patrol.
“Wayne is just a really dedicated and devoted firefighter for the citizens of Penticton, he had an excellent career and he says he’s enjoyed every minute of it,” said Forster.
The next two months, before McKenzie officially retires in July, will be spent using accumulated vacation time.
An outstanding Captain retires today after 40 years of service with the @pentictonfire and @iafflocal1399 Captain Wayne McKenzie, a highly respected member of the #pfd and an incredible leader is excited about his new journey in life and looks forward to his next chapters. pic.twitter.com/JhxRPmRgK1
— Penticton Fire Dept. (@pentictonfire) May 9, 2020
READ MORE: COVID-19: City of Penticton planning ‘restart’ of public facilities
READ MORE: COVID-19 outbreak declared over at Okanagan agricultural business
@PentictonNews
editor@pentictonwesternnews.com
Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.
