Rio Grande Fire Department
"SERVING THE PUBLIC FOR OVER 75 YEARS"
46 East Lewis Avenue
P.O. Box 343
Rio Grande , OH 45674
ph: 740-245-5822
fax: 740-245-1704
alt: 740-245-5012
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2011 CHRISTMAS DINNER
MEMBERS HONORED
During the Rio Grande Volunteer Fire Department’s Annual Christmas Dinner, the families recognized the service of Lt. Delbert Russ, who officially retired this month after 50 years of firefighting service; 40 of which were spent with the RGVFD.
“I couldn’t have been around a better group of people to work with and watch your back in dangerous situations,” said Delbert Russ, who lives in Thurman with his wife of 49 years, Joyce.
Russ first started as a volunteer firefighter in Michigan, before moving to the area in 1971. While he officially became a firefighter at 18, his daughter, Melissa Donley, said he actually started when he was a young boy. According to Donley, the neighborhood children would ride their bikes until they caught up with the fire trucks, where they would hop onboard and head to the fire with the department.
Russ talked about the RGVFD firefighters like family, saying despite the any differences the firefighters have, “when it comes down to actual firefighting, everyone works together.” Though he’s retiring from active duty, Russ plans to stay involved as an honorary member.
Over the years, Russ has seen a lot of changes in the fire service, whether it be upgrades to trucks or changes in requirements. The biggest difference, Russ said, is the training volunteer firefighters now receive compared to when he started.
“There is a lot more to it and it makes it a lot safer for everybody,” said Russ.
Though he may not necessarily miss the middle of the night fire runs in freezing temperatures, Russ said about retiring, “Most of all, I will miss the guys.”
He said he will also miss working with the Rio Grande Volunteer Fire Department’s Ladies Auxiliary.
His wife Joyce, who is stepping down as the Auxiliary president, was also honored during the dinner by the Ladies Auxiliary.
Despite his retirement, Russ’ legacy lives on through his family. Currently serving on the department are his son-in-law, Scott Donley and grandson, Scott Donley Jr.
The Russes were not the only ones honored for their service during the dinner. Also celebrating 40 years on the department was Capt. Pat Canaday.
46 East Lewis Avenue
P.O. Box 343
Rio Grande , OH 45674
ph: 740-245-5822
fax: 740-245-1704
alt: 740-245-5012
rgfd401
