Captain Chris Kulak heads out on his final ride with Vernon Fire Rescue Services on Tuesday, retiring after 36 years with the service. (Photo credit: VFRS/Facebook)

By Pete McIntyre

community supporter

Celebrated Vernon firefighter rides out career

Dec 2, 2021 | 11:46 AM

A Vernon firefighter has hung up his fire hat after more than three decades of service to the community.

Captain Chris Kulak retired on Tuesday, Nov. 30, and as part of the tradition, was given a ride home by his colleagues from Vernon Fire Rescue Services.

Kulak has served with Fire Rescue in Vernon for 36 years, and has been the training officer for many of those years.

“I don’t know that I have ever met a more dedicated family man or a kinder soul,” said Fire Chief David Lind. “Congratulations on your retirement Captain. You are a blessing to many!”

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Chris Kulak is honoured for his charitable work by the Vernon Professional Firefighters Local 1517 in June, 2021. (Photo credit: Facebook/Vernon Firefighters Local 1517)

Kulak was honoured by the Vernon Professional Firefighters Local 1517 this past summer for his many efforts to help charities.

“He has been the head of the B.C. Burn Fund for 15 years and has also been the leader in our union for charity events to raise funds for the fight against muscular dystrophy,” said the union’s posting on Facebook.

“Brother Kulak will not only take control of the administrative work, but will be the first one to work on the ground level. From selling 50/50 tickets at Viper games, to holding out the boot on our MD boot drives, his face is the one you’ll see always giving back to the community.”