Fire Chief Tracy Natyshok, a dedicated public servant and cornerstone of the Park Forest Fire Department, has officially retired after 28 years of service to the community. 

Natyshok began his career with the department on July 28, 1997, and steadily advanced through the ranks due to his technical expertise, strong leadership, and unwavering commitment to public safety. He served as fire chief for nearly eight years, overseeing several key initiatives strengthening the department and its connections with the community.

Under Natyshok's leadership, the department modernized its fleet and equipment, expanded training programs, secured essential grants, and redefined community outreach efforts. His guidance during the COVID-19 pandemic was particularly praised, as it ensured that emergency services continued to operate safely and effectively amid the crisis.

Deputy Fire Chief Mark Cotrano commended Natyshok's legacy.

"Chief Natyshok was a mentor, a teacher, and above all, a servant leader," Cotrano said. "His impact on this department is immeasurable. He always put the team and community first. We're going to miss his calm presence and visionary thinking."

In addition to Natyshok's administrative achievements, he's remembered as a role model among firefighters and a staunch supporter of the Park Forest Firefighters Association Local 1263. He was widely admired across various village departments.

With his retirement, Natyshok plans to continue teaching with the Illinois Fire Service Institute and to spend more time traveling with his wife, Lorie, and their children, Nate and Taylor. 

The Village board and staff formally recognized his retirement earlier this week with a resolution expressing their deepest gratitude and wishing him a happy, healthy retirement.

Natyshok's last day is Monday, July 28, 28 years after joining the department.