When Dot Gillis joined Cochrane Fire Services as the organization’s administrative assistant 25 years ago, she didn’t think she’d stay as long as she did.
But as the years went on, the job became much more than just a typical 9-to-5 – she had found another family.
“You have your home life and you have your work life,” said Gillis. “But here the two are kind of one and the same. The camaraderie of this place and working with these people … we’ve become very close.”
Last week, the so-called ‘Queen of the fire hall’ bid her leave to the Cochrane crew and to her second home with a celebratory retirement party put on by coworkers. Her last day involved cupcakes, taking a trip in the bucket of the Aerial 151 ladder truck, and most importantly, time spent with some of the people she loves most.
“This,” Gillis said while holding her granddaughter Rylie and speaking to the crew and Town staff. “This … and whatever else is in your life, is what it’s all about. I’m so thankful to the Town for giving me the opportunity to be able to do this with my health and my family members.”
Her ideal retirement involves either moving to a beach or buying an older, historic home, Gillis explained. Because “there are no beaches in Alberta,” the retiree said she bought a home near Three Hills, where she’ll be much closer to family, instead.
It’s not goodbye, only see ya later, but Cochrane fire inspector Jeff Avery says Gillis will be sorely missed at the fire hall and around town. She was one of the first people he met when joining the department 22 years ago.
“When she says she has your back, she truly has your back,” said Avery. “She’s been a great friend to me. She’s always been there when one of us needed a hug, and vice-versa.”
Fire chief Shawn Polley described Gillis as “the knowledge-keeper, the one who knew the rules, knew how to get things done and the people to get it done.
“It’s very personal for me to look at you and say thank you for all you’ve done, for me personally, for our community and for our service,” he said to the retiree.
As a thank you from the fire department, Gillis was presented with a Men of Vision necklace, representative of her years of service to Cochrane.
“I hope every time you wear it, it reminds you of all the amazing things that you were able to do with us as part of our team,” said Polley.
Toward the end of the farewell celebration, the fire department received a special dispatch call that rang out over the hall’s speakers.
“Station 151,” the operator said. “This is a congratulations to Dot Gillis, who is retiring today after 25 years of service. Dot, the Cochrane fire department and the Town of Cochrane wish you all the best in your retirement. Dispatch clear.”
