Halvorson earns city's praise
Elmer Halvorson admits that he still misses responding to fires, but that’s only natural after 54 years.
Halvorson joined the Enderby Volunteer Fire Department in 1958 at the age of 16, and the now 70-year-old retired last fall.
“There was the camaraderie with the guys. There’s a real bond that you make,” he said.
“I’m still physically in good shape and can drag hose but I felt it wasn’t the thing to do at my age.”
On Wednesday, Halvorson received the Freedom of the City, Enderby’s highest honour, to recognize his contributions.
“He’s an amazing community fellow,” said Mayor Howie Cyr.
“He’s always on the go and always contributing to the community.”
Beyond the fire department, Halvorson is a member of the Lions Club and served as a city councillor and regional district director. He operated Elmer’s Insurance.
Halvorson has had a significant presence around the fire hall for the last five decades.
“He’s a great story teller,” said Kevin Alstad, fire chief.
“He’s a great person and a really hard worker. He has a down home community attitude and he’s really involved.”
Halvorson says he was surprised to learn he was receiving the Freedom of the City.
“You don’t go into community service with the thought of being recognized, beyond being helpful,” he said.
Enderby also recently presented the Freedom of the City to Alex Dayduke, who was a firefighter for 47 years.
On Wednesday, lifetime civic merit awards went to firefighters Ray Kerkhof for 23 years of service and Greg Halvorson for 28 years.
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