The Morning Journal (Lorain, OH)
City honors assistant fire chief on retirement
The City of Avon is saying thank you to one of its most dedicated public servants, Assistant Fire Chief Mike Emling, who retired after 36 years of protecting the community.
In an Aug. 10 ceremony at Avon City Hall, Emling was presented with a proclamation from Avon Mayor Bryan Jensen.
“Mike’s unique sense of humor and amusing antics always kept the crew laughing,” Jensen said. “As he made his way up through the ranks, he always kept his sense of humor and his crew always knew that he had your best interests at heart.”
The mayor added there was no doubt how much Emling loved his family, and he thanked him for the sacrifices he made in his service to the Avon community.
Avon fire Chief Frank Root III has been with Emling for his entire career since joining in 1984 when the department was part time.
“We had a lot of fire in our hearts back then, and we were bound and determined to change the Avon Fire Department for the better,” Root said.
Thirty-six years later, with a thriving full-time department, Root said much of it can be attributed to
Emling’s dedication.
When Emling began his career, he worked for First Energy while responding to calls on his off time.
He played a key role in building the department to what it is today.
Emling served as the Fire Department’s first training captain before being promoted to assistant fire chief.
He worked his final shift July 31, received a ceremonial last alarm and was honored by his Avon Fire Department colleagues.
In a post to the department’s Facebook page, Emling was remembered for his selfless dedication, humor and strong character.
“If you were to walk into his office, the first thing you would notice were the pictures of family and friends,” according to the post. “These are the things that mean the most to Mike. He always had an open door and would listen to your concerns.
“You were always greeted with a smile, a look or one of his famous one liners. Mike is a devoted husband, father, grandfather, an active member of his church, and an OK golfer.”