File news photo Alpena Fire Chief Rob Edmonds is seen standing next to a fire truck. Edmonds will retire from the department on Nov. 29.

ALPENA — After nearly 31 years of employment with the City of Alpena, Alpena Fire Chief Rob Edmonds is retiring.

Edmonds has been employed by the City since 1996, and was promoted to fire chief in November 2022, replacing former Fire Chief Bill Forbush. He has 38 total years of experience as a fireman, starting his career at 19 years old at the Sanborn Township Fire Department.

From the start, Edmonds was known for his drive, his constant motion, and his desire to make the Alpena Fire Department a better place, according to a press release from the City of Alpena. He was always willing to lead, mentor, and coach the next generation of firefighters.

Rob’s career steadily advanced — he was promoted to lieutenant in 2006, captain in 2014, and deputy chief in September 2019 under Forbush. As deputy chief, Edmonds also served as the department’s training officer, ensuring that all personnel were skilled, prepared, and capable of handling any emergency that came their way.

In just three short years as chief, Edmonds made a tremendous impact — securing two new fire trucks (currently on order), providing every firefighter with a new set of turnout gear, and ensuring each member had their own personal radio. Those are only a few examples of his many accomplishments, the press release stated.

Edmonds said he has been at retirement age for about a year and a half now, and the City allows employees to retire at age 55. He said he has been looking to retire and draw his pension.

His last day as fire chief is Nov. 30, and he starts a new job at Amrize on Dec. 1.

“It’s a pseudo safety, maintenance position,” he said. “It will allow me to work and draw my pension all at the same time.”

Edmonds said he has a son going through college, so he still needs to work for a while longer.

Edmonds expressed his gratitude for the Alpena community.

“It’s literally the best job in the world,” he said. “It’s been an honor and a privilege to serve the community that long. The City has treated me well.”

Edmonds said he would like to serve in the Sanborn Township Fire Department in retirement.

“I’ll still be involved in the fire service and helping the community out in that capacity,” he said.

Edmonds’ retirement party will be held from noon to 4 p.m. on Nov. 29 at 501 W. Chisholm Street. Food and refreshments will be provided.

Reagan Voetberg can be reached at 989-358-5683 or rvoetberg@TheAlpenaNews.com.