1979-02-16 Special Meeting - Laserfiche WebLink

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• • • Special Meeting 2/16/79 2 2. PAY TRIBUTE TO RETIRING EMPLOYEE - Commissioner Simons stated that Charlie Dunham was one of the first people he had met some 16 years ago, when he moved to La Porte; their families became very close friends; further stating that he hated to see Charlie go; and expressed appreciate to both Charlie and Katie Dunham. Commissioner Cline stated that the meeting was called to pay tribute to Charlie Dunham. Everyone was greatly endebted to him. He helped to build the Fire Department; they were the best of friends. Expressed "Good Luck" and 'Come back". Commissioner Tomerlin apologized for the grass fires that he and John Gruder a set as boys, because of the thrill they got to see the fire truck and Charlie coming to put out the fires. He further stated that the youth of the community had always looked up to Charlie; further appreciated his service. Commissioner Simons stated that one time Charlie had let him run two and. one-half blocks carrying a fire hose to a dead fire hydrant. Harold Pfeiffer stated that his association with Charlie went back further t at he wanted to remember. Everyone in the entire community owes a lot to Charlie. Pete Gilliam stated that he had better not comment. • Frank Boyle stated that he was no public speaker and would agree with the comments that had already been said. Mike Dietzman spoke of afire at the Russell Shepherd home. Rusty Shepherd remembered Charlie and his dog, Speedy, as he grew up. Joe Sease, Fire Chief, presented Charlie a hunting vest, shells and a shot gun from the Volunteer Club, in appreciation for all the nice things he had done, the extra work and all the chickens he had bar-b-qued. Chief Freeman stated he would like to say a lot, but had to be careful what he said. They had shared lots of things, fought many fires, played pool, and even tried to escort Charlie to a fire, and was nearly run over by the old red fire truck. John Ladd stated that Charlie was one of the first people he had met in t e fire department and they had solved lots of problems together.