Rudichar retirement

Pine Haven’s EMS and fire as well as other friends celebrated their time knowing and working with Bob Rudichar and wife Ruth Saturday evening as they said farewell to the couple, who are retiring to New Mexico.

The couple has lived in Pine Haven for over five years, Bob being hired at that time as the minister of the now defunct Vineyard Church. He quickly became a member of the volunteer fire department as well and spent the last several years as fire chief and ambulance driver when needed.

Due to concern over the reemergence of the virus, the number of guests was somewhat restricted.

However, that did not stop the room from quickly filling with well wishers.

Now Fire Chief Don Lancaster spoke with admiration of his friend, “Bob did a lot for the fire department, he brought the level up to where everything is pretty much right on track and I think Bob deserves a great deal of appreciation for that.”

Town Councilman John Henle said, “I’m sorry Bob’s leaving, he was a heck of a fire chief.”

Councilwoman Emily Smith also commented on Rudichar’s contribution to the community, “I think as a pastor and a fire fighter and a community member, he was very strong and giving. We will miss him.”

Rudichar expressed his mixed emotions on leaving Pine Haven: “On the one hand, it’s kind of disappointing that I am leaving,

I really love it here, it’s probably one of the neatest places I’ve ever lived, but on the other hand, after 47 years of public service, it’s time.”

He spoke of the comradely and “wonderful experiences” he had over the years and all that he has learned. Several firefighters helped the couple load their U-Haul over the weekend.

Bob was presented a plaque for his service and Ruth a bouquet of flowers before everyone sat down to a smorgasbord of tasty treats and conversation.