After five decades of service, a longtime assistant fire chief is bidding farewell. Lyle Cousins submitted his letter of retirement to the Thomas Township board and fire department late last month; his retirement was effective Feb. 1.
“I joined the fire department in January, 1969. Therefore, January, 2019 will make it 50 years of service,” Cousins said in his letter.
The Township Board of Trustees issued a Proclamation that recognized Cousins. It was presented during the regular board meeting on Feb. 4.
Throughout the years he has served in many roles including firefighter, lieutenant, captain, training officer, assistant chief and interim chief. He also served as president of the Saginaw County Firefighters Association and was a state certified fire instructor.
His son, Michael Cousins, currently serves as Thomas Township Fire Chief.