Sooke Fire Chief Steve Sorensen announced his retirement last night.
Sorensen joined the Sooke Fire Department in 1980 as a volunteer.
In 1997, Sorensen fulfilled his lifetime dream of becoming a career firefighter.
With the incorporation of Sooke in 1999, he became the first employee of the new district.
In 2009, he was appointed fire chief, and later the additional role of emergency coordinator.
“After being on duty 24 hours a day, seven days a week for all those years, it’s now time to relax and spend time with family and friends,” said Sorensen.
Not one to sit still, he will be able to concentrate on building his new home and the restoration of his 1930 fire truck.
“Chief Sorensen has been a shining example of community service in Sooke, having selflessly given countless hours to ensuring the protection of residents and organizing fundraising events to benefit the community. On behalf of the community, we thank him for all he has done for Sooke, and wish him a well-deserved break and a very happy retirement,” said Teresa Sullivan, chief administrative officer.
Sorensen's retirement takes effect Oct. 17.