Kerby’s legacy of 47 years of service with Centre Hastings Fire Department celebrated

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On November 18th, the Municipality of Centre Hastings proudly held a retirement presentation for longtime volunteer firefighter Mike Kerby, honouring his extraordinary 47 years of service to the Centre Hastings Fire Department. Surrounded by fellow firefighters, family, friends, and community members, Mike reflected on a lifetime of dedication, community spirit, and the unexpected path that led him into the fire service.

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From an early age, the dream had been to become a police officer. In 1977, that dream seemed within reach when he was accepted to Algonquin College. Every Friday, he hitchhiked home to Ivanhoe, where a stop at his Uncle Jack Stephens’ garage was a weekly ritual—catching up on local news and community stories.

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But in the spring of 1978, everything changed. After the devastating fire that destroyed the old cheese factory, community elders recognized the urgent need for a local fire department. In true small-town fashion, Uncle Jack didn’t ask—he assigned his nephews to the newly formed Huntingdon Fire Department.

That was the beginning of a 47-year journey.

In those early days, firefighters made do with what they had. Their first turnout gear was heavy, hand-me-down wool coats from other local fire departments—so waterlogged during calls they were almost impossible to wear. Firefighters were paid $5 an hour, half of which they donated back to help purchase desperately needed equipment. “Imagine that today,” he joked.

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As he reflected, the firefighter emphasized how deeply the department’s brotherhood shaped his life. Station One members were praised for helping build a legacy he’s proud to leave behind. He extended his gratitude to the members of Station Two and paid tribute to the veterans who had guided the department through decades of change.

He also honoured the leaders who laid the foundation for what the department is today. From the first chief, Jack Stephens, through Bob Rowland, Glenn Locke, Craig Horton, Bob Branscombe, and current Chief Derek Snider, he acknowledged their commitment to keeping the department strong and unified. He also recognized the Deputy Chiefs—Jim Wallace, Randy Hackey, Bill Pollock, and Jeff Newman—whose leadership supported both halls over the years.

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One tribute stood out above the rest: a heartfelt acknowledgment of his brother, Stuart. Though younger, Stuart’s dedication, leadership, and uncanny speed in responding to calls have become legend within the department. Rising to Station 1 Commander, Stuart’s contributions earned admiration from both halls.

“I wish I could stand beside him when he receives his 50 years,” he said, “but I promise to be the first to congratulate him in two years.”

Behind the scenes, family played an equally important role. He thanked his wife Colleen, son Matt, and his siblings for their unwavering support, noting that partners of firefighters serve too—listening after difficult calls, covering responsibilities at home, and contributing to fundraisers. He offered a special thank-you to the once-thriving Ladies Auxiliary, which raised thousands of dollars for equipment, including the department’s first set of jaws-of-life.

As Mike closed his message, he reflected on life’s unexpected paths. A mere quarter inch kept him from becoming a police officer during an era of strict height requirements. But what once felt like a closed door revealed a greater calling.

“In the end, I realized I did get to serve my community and my country—just not as a policeman,” he shared. “It took almost four decades to understand that what I wanted was right here all along: serving as a volunteer fireman for the great municipality of Centre Hastings.”

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