Found Picture Sparks Memories

A picture found by our current chief shows 6 members in front of the old station in Graafschap. Also in the picture are the first two fire trucks owned by the department. Left to right are: Harold Knoll, Jr, Chief David Schripsma, Lieutenant Clare Elders, Captain George Koops, Herman Tien, and Russell Goeman.

Pictured above in the solid colored clothing (beside the “G”) is Clare Elder. He later became chief of the department (1969-1982) and served this community until 1993. His farewell letter to the department was also in the file and contained a rather comical hint of poetry.

Graafschap Fire Department stands on the shoulders of those that came before us. We are proud to carry on and move forward with public safety, which is our primary responsibility to the residents and vistitors of Fillmore and Laketown Townships.