Pontiac Times

3rd-generation firefighter is new asst. chief!

Randy Vesper is bringing a lifetime’s worth of knowledge, experience and family traditions to the Oxford Fire Department. He’ll take over as the new assistant chief in March.

“I’m excited to get started,” said Vesper, who has served as chief of the Port Huron Township Fire Department since November 2021. “I’m looking forward to the opportunity to serve Oxford.”

Vesper joined the fire service in August 1990 as a paid-on-call member of the Kenockee Township Fire Department in St. Clair County. His family has a long and proud history with this department.

His father, Larry, was with department for 55 years. His grandfather, Ralph, spent at least 25 years keeping Kenockee Township safe. Both served as fire chief.

Their example, their stories and their dedication inspired Vesper. “I always knew I was going to join the fire service,” he said. “I’ve always enjoyed helping people.”

Vesper spent five-and-a-half years with the Kenockee Township FD. During his final year, he was promoted to the rank of lieutenant.

In February 1996, Vesper joined the St. Clair Shores Fire Department in Macomb County. He spent the next 25 years rising through the ranks until he retired as battalion chief in June 2021.

His best moment in the fire service occurred in August 2019 when he received his battalion chief promotion. “My dad was there to pin my badge on me,” he said.

When asked to describe his leadership style, Vesper said, “I tend to be pretty levelheaded. I try to gather all the facts I can when dealing with an issue. I also like to empower people by passing on my knowledge.”

Preparing the “younger generation of firefighters” to take the reins is one of Vesper’s great joys.

When he’s not working, Vesper, who lives in Royal Oak, enjoys hiking and cutting firewood in the great outdoors. He also loves spending time with his friends and family. 

He and his wife, Molly, will celebrate their 23rd wedding anniversary in July. She’s a teacher at R. Grant Graham Elementary in Auburn Hills. 

Their children, Nathan and Aliyah, both attend Albion College. Nathan is a junior who plays lacrosse, while Aliyah is a freshman and a member of the volleyball team.

Vesper noted he and wife are hoping to find “a small chunk of property” out here to call their own.

“Since I’m going to be working for Oxford Township, I’d like to live in the township or the village,” he said. “I like the Oxford area. I grew up in a country setting. This seems like a good fit for us.”

Original source can be found here.