After 45 years, Liberty Twp. fire chief’s last day on the job is Friday

After 45 years with the Liberty Twp. fire department, Chief Paul Stumpf’s last day is Friday. GREG LYNCH/STAFF

After 45 years with the Liberty Twp. fire department, Chief Paul Stumpf’s last day is Friday. GREG LYNCH/STAFF

After 45 years with the Liberty Twp. fire department, Chief Paul Stumpf's last day is Friday.

Stumpf, a lifelong resident of the area, announced his retirement about one year ago. The township is hosting an open house in Stumpf’s honor from 4 to 6 p.m. today, Sept. 28, at Liberty Heights Church, 7904 Princeton Road.

RELATED: Liberty Twp. hires first new fire chief in decades

Stumpf began his fire service career as a member of the township’s volunteer department in September 1972. At the time, he was working full-time in the heavy equipment and construction field but fire service became his passion. He was named chief in 1985 and spent nine years helping to plan for the future and shape the fire department.

He told the Journal-News it has been a great ride.

“The decision to retire is never easy, but I feel good about the timing. Achieving 45 years of service is a great goal and I’m extremely proud of the Liberty Twp. Fire Department. We’ve seen a lot of changes — a ton of residential growth and more recently, a significant increase in commercial growth. It’s been exciting to be part of the community’s development and to play such an important role in shaping the Liberty Twp. Fire Department,” Stumpf said.

New Fire Chief Ethan Klussman started full-time on Monday, but he has been working with Stumpf since he was hired last month.

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