Elgin firefighter Steve Gisleson retired from the Elgin Fire Department on Jan. 4, after 35 years of service to protecting the lives and property of the citizens of Elgin. (Chris DeBack photo)
Otter Creek flood, comradery highlight Gisleson's long tenure
Shane Butterfield
Contributing Writer
When the sun set on Thursday, Jan. 4, 2018, Steve Gisleson quietly concluded his tenure with the Elgin Fire Department, a period of service that began in 1983, when a Dodge Ram cost under $6,000 and “Return of the Jedi” was the summer blockbuster of note.
“I figured 35 was a good number,” said the understated Elgin native and resident about the timing of his resignation.
A carpenter by education, a longtime postal carrier by trade, Gisleson’s dedication has made him a pillar of his community, one whose service spans eras.
Gisleson’s affiliation with the fire department began by chance, springing from a conversation that occurred during a routine event involving Chris, his son.