MASON CITY – A firefighter that served in Mason City for decades is retiring and his career was celebrated by the community.
On Friday, August 30, 2024, the Mason City Fire Department held a ceremony celebrating the incredible career of Deputy Chief Carl Ginapp. Carl’s career at Mason City Fire Department began in 1996 and he has dedicated the last 28 years of his life to serving his hometown. Throughout his career, he has been an integral part of many changes within our department, including the most significant one—becoming the primary ambulance service for North Iowa. As a member of the MCFD’s very first paramedic class, Carl played an instrumental role in transforming our department from a traditional fire and rescue service into the all-hazards Fire and Emergency Medical Services department it is today.
During his tenure, Carl has worn many hats, serving as Lieutenant, Training Officer, Assistant Team Lead of the Hazmat Team, and most recently, Deputy Chief of EMS. In every position that he held, his passion for our profession and for the success of our department was always at the forefront. As the leader of our department’s EMS efforts for the last 5 years, Carl has helped elevate our medical response to one of the highest performing services in the state. While it is impossible to list them all in a few paragraphs, Deputy Chief Ginapp’s contributions have truly made a lasting impact on our department and will benefit the citizens of North Iowa for years to come.
“Thank you, Deputy Chief Ginapp, for your outstanding service,” the MCFD said in a statement. “You’ve set a high bar, and we wish you nothing but the best in your well-deserved retirement!”
(PHOTO at top of Deputy Chief Carl Ginapp via City of Mason City.)