Oak Forest Fire Chief Retires After Nearly 3 Decades With Department, Moves On To Chief Role In Kankakee

OAK FOREST, IL — Oak Forest Fire Chief Gary Kasper is retiring from the Oak Forest Fire Department after 25 years of service, the City said Monday.

Kasper's last day will be Oct. 30. Kasper has been appointed as fire chief in Kankakee, WIVR reports. He begins that role Nov. 2.

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"I wish Gary all the best as he begins a new chapter," said Mayor Jim Hortsman. "I am grateful for his leadership and the genuine care he's shown Oak Forest over the years. Gary's compassionate, community-focused approach to life safety has truly shaped our city for the better."

Throughout his career, Kasper has been a "driving force for progress" within the fire department— introducing new policies, advancing training methods, enhancing service delivery, and upholding accreditation and accountability, the City said.

Most recently, Kasper and his team became the first in Illinois to adopt the EXG 12-lead system — a groundbreaking cardiac monitoring solution that improves the diagnosis of heart attacks, arrhythmias, and poor blood flow.

Kasper also worked with the community on fire prevention education, collaborated with other city agencies to devise a disaster mitigation plan, and created a training matrix system to help firefighters build and enhance their skills.

"Serving my hometown has been a true honor," Kasper said.

"I am grateful to the dedicated men and women of the Oak Forest Fire Department and to my colleagues across the city for their steadfast support and collaboration. Together, we have strengthened and safeguarded Oak Forest, and I am proud to have served this remarkable community."

The City will launch a search for the department's next chief.