“After 24 years of service to the City of St. George, Firefighter Rick Welch has retired. Firefighter Welch has been a valuable asset to the St. George Fire Department throughout his entire career. His positive attitude and willingness to work hard will be greatly missed! Thank you, Firefighter Welch, for everything you've done for St. George and its citizens. Enjoy your retirement!” so said the City of St. George in a Facebook post following his retirement party on Friday, June 15, 2018.
Rick, one of our three favorite sons-in-law, began his career with the City of St. George on August 22, 1994 as a wastewater equipment operator with the Water Services Department. In December 1997, he joined the SGFD as a reserve firefighter and two years later, on September 5, 1999, he was hired as a full-time firefighter.
His retirement party included members of his squad, city officials, as well as assorted members of the Welch and Sappington family … all who sang the praises of this exceptional man, including his father David Welch who said, "Yes, he's one helluva good son. I'm going to keep him." There was lots of laughter - and tears - and tons of hugs!
After cake and kudos, the SGFD surprised him with a ride home – after his last shift – on the City's antique Studebaker firetruck, including his family, officers in full-dress uniforms, flashing lights and sirens.
Happy to call Rick Welch a member of our family ... and this is certain to make our 2018 Sappington Family Top Ten list!
2 comments:
Dang! I wish I could have been there!!
Me too! We are just one week off. ☹️
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