Oak Park Fire Chief Ron Kobyleski has announced that he will retire from the department later this spring.
Koblyeski will end his career with over three years as the department’s top official, and 40 years with the department overall, according to a village release announcing the move.
“It has been an honor and privilege to spend my career with the fire department here in Oak Park,” Kobyleski said. “The bravery and dedication shown by all of the men and women of this department has been inspiring to me and something that keeps all of us motivated to be our very best every single day. It’s a bittersweet feeling to step away from a role that I deeply cherish, but I will do so knowing that the Oak Park Fire Department is in great hands and remains committed to carrying on the mission and serving the village with pride.”
Since joining the department in 1985, Kobyleski has held every available rank in Oak Park. In addition to his three-plus years as chief, he served one year as deputy chief, 10 years as a battalion chief and seven years as OPFD’s training officer, according to the release.
Across his tenure in Oak Park, Kobyleski has served as a certified fire investigator, hazardous-materials technician, technical rescue in building collapse, high-rise rescue, trench rescue and confined-space rescue. Kobyleski also created the mutual aid box alarm system (MABAS) technical rescue team and led them for nine years, according to the release.
“Chief Kobyleski has poured his heart and soul into this village and for the critical function our fire department serves for four incredible decades,” said Village Manager Kevin Jackson. “From firefighter all the way to chief, Ron has risen through the ranks with a strong sense of integrity and commitment to safety, while never failing to put the needs of the community first. I congratulate him on a uniquely amazing 40-year career of service in Oak Park. It has been an absolute honor working with Chief Kobyleski over the past three years. And, on behalf of all Oak Parkers, I thank him deeply for his unwavering dedication, leadership and service to our village.”
As chief, Kobyleski oversaw facility upgrade projects, the purchase of multiple new emergency service vehicles and over 26,000 calls for service. His final day with the department is May 10.
