Unadilla Township Thanks Chief Schroeder for 39 Years of Service

14 News, Unadilla Fire Department,

Fire Chief Schroeder recovering from a pulmonary embolism.

by Judy Williams

For 39 years, in good weather and bad, in the dead of night or day, Mark Schroeder has been on call to fight fires or make life-saving medical runs. His dedication to community as a volunteer firefighter has made the residents of Unadilla Township safer.

Schroeder, a lifelong resident of Unadilla Township, joined the Unadilla Township Fire Department (UTFD) in 1983 and in 2001 was appointed UTFD fire chief. Because of his commitment to the community, Schroeder has always worked in the area, only taking jobs that would allow him to leave if an emergency arose.

On Feb 1, 2020, Schroeder will officially retire from the UTFD.

“Mark Schroeder has dedicated his life to our fire department,” stated Linda Walker, Unadilla Township Supervisor. “Illness has forced him to step back from his duties and this week he informed me that he is officially retiring effective Feb. 1.” Walker continued. “We all wish him the best in his retirement and hope he knows how much we’ve appreciated his service to the community.”

For the past year, the UTFD has been operating under the direction of Assistant Chief Wendy Hause.

Schroeder, a person who has spent his life helping others, is now on the long road of trying to recover from a pulmonary embolism that hospitalized him Jan. 22, 2019, and continues to cause him health problems.

The UTFD will host an open house to honor Chief Schroeder for his service at a future date. Community members and friends of Chief Schroeder will be invited to attend.

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