Two long time City of Fernie employees have retired from service, Fire Prevention Officer Dave Kurschenska and Public Works operator Doug Temple.

Dave moved to Fernie years ago from Ontario and their loss was definitely Fernie’s gain as Dave has been a key component in the Fernie Fire Department since he started.

Not only has he been an exemplary employee Dave took on a lot of volunteer work playing an integral part in the restoration of the Studebaker fire truck and driving it in many parades.
He was a dynamic force behind the very successful PARTY program for the Elk Valley since it began in 1998.

Other volunteer efforts include being chairman of Muscular Dystrophy, raising money for Jaws of Life, the Burn Fund, Hamburger days and involved in all the charities that Fire Department members have contributed to over the years.

Dave is an avid car enthusiast specifically mustangs and he can often be seen in car shows with his beautiful mustang vehicle.

Hi co-workers say that it is difficult to mention all he has accomplished but that he will be greatly missed. Prior to coming to Fire Rescue Dave worked underground mining and despite all the years he has devoted to our Fire Department Dave has maintained enthusiasm for his work. Chief Reuter says that “after all of these years Dave was still very passionate about his duties at the Fire Department. He was well organized and truly took pride in serving the Fernie community, He will definitely be missed.”

The chief is right, Dave has been an important part of the Fire Department in many ways and so on behalf of Council and everyone at the City we thank Dave for his dedication and hard work and especially all of the volunteer contribution to our town and wish him the best in his retirement.

Doug Temple, one of our most senior employees has also decided to retire and I imagine that retirement for Doug probably means working harder on his farm in Hosmer.

Doug became employed with the City of Fernie on November 10, 1991.

He became certified in waste water treatment Level I and waste water collection Level II and was senior operator in the sewer department.

He was also a plow operator for the Airport, Elkview and North and South end of Maintown. Doug served as president of the Union and was a great advocate for his fellow workers. When not farming Doug is spending time with Rod and Gun Club activities.

His skills and knowledge will be much missed within our organization. But I am sure his wife Brenda, kids Tyler and Lisa, and three grandchildren will be happy to have extra time with Doug. Doug, on behalf of Council, staff and everyone at the City of Fernie, thank you for your years of dedicated service to our town.

Presentations were made to both men on Friday December 12, we wish Dave and Doug a long and happy retirement doing all of the fun things they have always wanted to do but didn’t have time for.