Le Mars Fire-Rescue Chief Dave Schipper called it a career on Friday afternoon, retiring after 38 years of public service during an open house held at the Garage at 800 in Le Mars. Speaking to KLEM, Schipper says the support he was shown over the past several days has been emotional and surreal.
Schipper has served for 21 years with the Fire-Rescue Department, and the last 16 years as Fire Chief. He highlighted the growth of the department during his tenure, from merging fire and EMS to expanding full-time staff at the department.
Schipper says he’s thankful for the community, and to be able to end his career in Le Mars.
Schipper will be succeeded in his role by current Assistant Fire Chief Steve Schwarz, who is scheduled to officially be sworn in before the Le Mars city council meeting tomorrow morning at 11:30am.
