The Superior Express -

The Lawrence Volunteer Fire Department saw two veteran fire fighters retire in 2022. Bob Menke is a 46 year veteran, and Bob Theer a 34 year veteran. The men were recognized during the December meeting of the LVFD.

Mr. Menke has served from 1976 to 2022 and joined when Arnold Krebsbach was fire chief. He was a member of the original EMT squad in Lawrence and served as fire chief from 1998 until 2002.

Mr. Theer served his community from 1988 to 2022. He joined when Ed Ostdiek was fire chief and continued for 34 years. He served as fire chief from 1993 to 1995.

A new year . . . new leaders . . . The end of 2022 saw the Lawrence Volunteer Fire Dept. (LVFD) experience the fight against one of the largest prairie fires in recent years southeast of Lawrence. They also used the time to elect new officers for the department.

Greg Pohlmeier (right), Lawrence Volunteer Fire Department's fire chief, recognizes Bob Theer as he retires for his many years of service.

With the beginning of 2023, Greg Pohlmeier will step down as the fire chief after giving four years to the position. The new officers are:

Fire Chief: Todd Himmelberg

1st Assistant Fire Chief: Luke Muir

2nd Assistant Fire Chief: Adam Theer

Training Officers: Mike Stokes, Nathan Faimon

Safety Officers: Brett Kohmetscher, Dan Laughlin

Chief Pohlmeier noted there are presently 32 members in the fire department. He said a number of new members have recently begun their volunteer service to the fire district.

Emergency Medical Technicians: A major component of the LVFD, of course, are the EMT's. At the present time Mitch Kathman is the Head EMT and will continue in that position for the coming year. At this time, there are 13 EMTs on the Lawrence Fire and Rescue Squad.