Hoffman retires as city fire captain

DAVE MOSIER/independent editor

The Van Wert Fire Department’s senior captain, Frank Hoffman, said farewell to his colleagues during a retirement open house held Thursday in Van Wert City Council Chambers.

Seeing his senior captain leaving after 27 years of service left Fire Chief Jim Steele with mixed emotions, noting that Hoffman was his “go to” guy, especially when he had to go out of town.

“Frank was always the guy I could trust that things would get done, I didn’t have to worry if I was going to be out of town,” Chief Steele said.

“You hate to see a person with as much time and service and experience leave,” Chief Steele said, adding, “at the same time, I hope you have a great time (in retirement).”

Hoffman joined the fire department in 1984 under then Chief Paul Baer and was promoted to lieutenant by then-Chief Ron Rank in 1992. He was promoted to captain in 1997 and has been the senior captain since 2007.

Chief Steele said that, although the city fire department is well equipped, it is the people who are the most important asset he has.

“We have outstanding equipment and we have a great facility, but the bottom line – what makes the difference each and every day – is the people that are here and Frank is surely one of those special people,” the fire chief added.

Hoffman thanked his fellow firefighters, noting that the quality of people who have served with and under him have made his job easy. He also said he had good teachers and singled out retired fire captain Dave Freeman, who he said was an excellent fire instructor, and Chief Steele, who taught his first EMT class.

The retiring captain also noted that he had good memories of his time in the department – except possibly the time fell through a weakened roof – and also complimented his replacement, newly promoted Captain John Lahmon, saying he knew Lahmon would do a good job.

Chief Steele also presented Hoffman with his “lid” – his fire helmet – and with a gold watch honoring him for his years of service.