The Barriere Volunteer Fire Department is honouring fire chief Ashley Wohlgemuth for her 26 years of service and dedication, following her decision to retire on Sept. 9.
Chief Wohlgemuth began her volunteer career as a junior in 1998, and has been a member of Barriere Fire Rescue since. In 2023 she was presented with an award from the District of Barriere commemorating her 25 years of service.
“We are beyond grateful to have such a loyal and dedicated individual helping to protect and serve Barriere for so many years," said mayor Ward Stamer at the time. "Ashley has seen our valley through multiple wildfire emergencies, including the devastation of the 2003 McLure wildfire. In addition, she has saved many homes, businesses and most importantly lives, over the course of these 25 years.”
The district stated in a recent press release that, throughout her years of service, Wohlgemuth has seen many volunteers come and go, has responded to hundreds of incidents, has educated the public on fire safety, and has touched the lives of everyone she has worked with.
“Chief Wohlgemuth has always held a high standard while serving the community of Barriere and has always been a reliable source to lean on in any situation," said acting mayor Rob Kerslake. "Mayor and council want to thank her for her time, dedication, and stellar career in the fire service and wish her well in her future endeavours.”
Fire chief for Chu Chua Volunteer Fire Department, Ron Lampreau Jr. added his gratitude, thanking Wohlgemuth for her "remarkable" service.
"You will be greatly missed, and your contributions will never be forgotten," he said.
Wohlgemuth said it has been an honour to lead a team of brave and dedicated individuals, and work alongside the remarkable staff at the District of Barriere, including mayor and council,
“I have always loved being able to give back to my community through my service within the fire department," she said.
When asked what she is going to miss the most, Wohlgemuth joked, “Running into burning buildings… I mean, I am going to miss working with the fire family the most. They have always been there for me, not just for the fire department things but they have become my friends and family.”
Barriere Fire Rescue deputy fire chief Alexis Hovenkamp will now be acting in the role of fire chief for the immediate future and said chief Wohlgemuth will be greatly missed at Barriere Fire Rescue and the place will not be the same without her.
"The District of Barriere and all the members of Barriere Fire Rescue would like to thank chief Wohlgemuth for 26 years of service," Hovenkamp added.
