MOOSE JAW — The Moose Jaw Fire Department (MJFD) and members of the Moose Jaw Professional Firefighters Association IAFF Local 553 union gathered this month to celebrate the careers of two longtime firefighters, Bill Howes and Jimmy Smith, as they officially marked their retirement.
Howes and Smith, both respected members of the department, dedicated several decades of service to protecting the community. Friends, family, and colleagues came together at a special ceremony to formally recognize their commitment, leadership, and the impact they’ve had on both the department and the city.
As part of the celebration, both men were presented with ceremonial axes — a long-standing tradition in the firefighting community. These decorative axes serve as a symbol of honour and appreciation, and the tool itself has deep historical significance representing both the physical and symbolic strength of the profession.
Bill Howes
Howes dedicated an impressive 35 years to the MJFD, and his experience and knowledge are nearly unmatched, said Brock Chelsberg, president of Local 553 who worked alongside Howes for most of his career.
“He poured his time and energy into a job he loved deeply. Bill finished his career as the highest-ranking officer (captain) in the department earning endless respect from his colleagues in that position.”
Chelsberg described Howes as “the go-to person for any questions,” and said he was “always able to find solutions, and handled every call with expertise.”
“Bill took the time to mentor every firefighter hired after him, teaching them the right way to approach the job,” Chelsberg said. “Over the years, he developed many outstanding firefighters within the department.”
Now serving as union president, Chelsberg credits Howes as a role model. “I strive to uphold the values he instilled in the department. He taught me invaluable lessons about balancing work and family life, for which I am incredibly grateful.
“It is truly sad to see someone like him leave, and it feels like there is now an emptiness moving forward,” Chelsberg shared. “However, he is the kind of person who will check in on everyone because that’s just who he is.
“We all wish him the best in this next chapter of his life and hope he enjoys his well-deserved retirement after his dedicated service.”
Jimmy Smith
The ceremony also recognized Smith, who left a lasting impression on his colleagues — not just through his skill, but also through his sense of humour during his 20-year career with the MJFD.
“Through countless pranks and ideas, he kept his shift rolling in laughter,” Chelsberg recalled fondly. “Jimmy was not only intelligent but also clever, which meant you always had to (stay) on your toes when he was around.”
Despite his lighthearted nature, Smith knew when it was the right time to focus on the job and was always ready to assist when it mattered most, proving to be a dependable and strong presence at fire scenes.
“He put his heart and soul into helping anyone who had his back, and he would always pay it back in return,” Chelsberg said.
Smith now looks forward to spending more time with his family, embracing his next chapter as a father, husband, and family man. “He can hold his head high, knowing the dedication he poured into this department and the pride he has earned through the respect he garnered as a firefighter,” his colleague shared.
“Jimmy will be missed at the hall for many reasons, and the place will not be the same without him,” Chelsberg said. “Everyone wishes him a joyful retirement and much enjoyment in the next chapter of his life.
“He truly was an outstanding firefighter, and I am grateful to have had the opportunity to work with him and get to know him.”
