53-year fire department veteran retires 

by Sheldon Ocker

Dec. 9 township trustees meeting

Fire chief Rob Campbell regretfully announced to Bath Township trustees that Robert Motz was retiring from his part-time position as firefighter/paramedic.

Motz has worked in the department for more than 53 years.

“Bob has been here nearly 54 years and for me personally, having recently celebrated my 55th birthday, that’s a long time,” Campbell said. “He has not only seen the community grow, but he has seen the fire department grow from a small completely volunteer organization to what it is today.”

In his letter of resignation, Motz wrote: “Working for Bath Fire Department has been a life goal, which I will take into retirement. I am grateful to have been part of this great organization for over 53 years.”

Motz was recognized at the Dec. 16 trustees meeting with a resolution stating he trained in scuba diving with the Bath Fire Department while still attending Revere High School. He was drafted into the U.S. Army after high school in 1968 and served in Vietnam as an infantry sergeant. He returned from his service in 1971 and was sworn in as a Bath firefighter. He earned an associate degree in business management and worked full time in the fire restoration business. Motz is a member of the Ohio State and Summit County Firefighters Associations.

The resolution stated: “His thoughtful nature, enduring commitment to the fire department and respect from his peers are a few of his defining qualities that make him an asset to Bath Township.”

Campbell said Motz was planning to stay in the area and that he wouldn’t hesitate to draw on Motz’s knowledge and experience in the community.

photo caption: Robert Motz, submitted