Maple Hill Fire Department dedicates hall to committed volunteer

Maple Hill Fire Department volunteer Richard “Dick” Parker was honored by his colleagues for his service to the fire department at a celebration on Tuesday, April 28. Fire Chief Kent Anderson presents the stunning bronze plaque that will hang at the fire hall. (L-R) Phyllis Parker, Dick Parker, Fire Chief Kent Anderson.

The Maple Hill Volunteer Fire Department pulled off a remarkable feat on Tuesday, April 28. The fire department, spearheaded by firefighter Paulina Backstrom, put together a surprise party for one of its most dedicated volunteers, Richard “Dick” Parker.

The fire department’s decision to dedicate its fire hall to Parker was easy. Ordering a beautiful bronze plaque with the fire department logo and Parker’s name was fairly easy. Quietly spreading the word to friends across the county about the surprise building dedication was challenging, but accomplished relatively easily.

However, keeping Dick Parker away from his tasks at the hall while the party was being set up. That was nearly impossible!

But the Maple Hill Fire Department was up to the challenge and with a little subterfuge, Parker was kept busy until the 100-some community members gathered at the fire hall to cheer when he arrived.

Maple Hill Fire Chief Kent Anderson welcomed Dick Parker and his wife Phyllis, who was presented with a beautiful bouquet in appreciation for her support of the fire department as well.

Steve Ortmann of the Maple Hill Fire Department spoke about the many ways Dick Parker serves the community, with the fire department and a myriad of other volunteer activities. He noted that Parker is a snowmobile, ATV and firearm safety instructor. He is treasurer for the Bethlehem Lutheran Church. In fact, Ortmann pointed out, Parker was supposed to be at a Grand Marais Lions Club meeting instead of the fire hall dedication.

Fire Chief Anderson presented the plaque that will grace the fire hall and there was a rousing round of applause for Parker, followed by a blessing by Pastor Mark Ditmanson. Then friends gathered for a bountiful potluck with lots of visiting, storytelling and laughter at the adventure of surprising one of the county’s treasured volunteers.