Local fire captain retires after 28 years

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) -- A longtime firefighter in St. Joseph will hang up his boots after nearly 30 years with the department.

Captain Tim Foreman said he tried several jobs early on before deciding to fulfill his dream of becoming a fireman.

"I went to two-year fireman school in Lincoln back in 1995," Foreman said. "And that's how I started here."

Foreman said he worked at all nine St. Joseph stations during his years with the department, but settled in at Fire Station Number 6 on the Southside around nine years ago -- the station where he was eventually promoted to the rank of captain.

As a longtime driver, co-worker's like 21-year veteran Eric Matchett said his knowledge of the city has been a valuable asset to the department.

"He not only knew the trucks well, but he also helped me and others in the district with his knowledge of where to go and the best ways to get there when we had a call," Matchett said.

Matchett also said Foreman has "Popeye-like strength" that he has exhibited more than once, especially during training times with recruits.

Foreman said he will hold fond memories of the camaraderie the firefighters have among themselves.

"The brotherhood and sisterhood we have here will be something I'll remember," Foreman said. "You're here at the station twenty-four hours at a time, and you get pretty close."

Since firefighters usually retire younger than the average retirement age, Foreman said, in addition to spending more time with family, he will transition into a full-time position at the company where he has worked part-time while serving with the SJFD. He expects it to be a smooth transition.