DE PERE, Wis. (WFRV) - 40 years after he started his career of public service, a legendary figure in the De Pere community is stepping away and saying farewell. De Pere Fire Rescue Chief Alan Matzke began his career as a part-timer in 1985 and worked his way up to the role of Chief in 2016, and T uesday marked his official retirement. “Ophelia is home!”: NEW Zoo announces the safe return for one of its two missing otters For four decades, Chief Matzke provided service to the De Pere community. The De Pere Fire Rescue recognized Chief Matzke's leadership, compassion and commitment to public safety in a Facebook post Tuesday afternoon. "His legacy will continue on in the strong training, modern protocols and deep community partnerships he helped build during his time here," the post said. "Thank you, Chief, for everything. Wishing you the very best in retirement!" ...read more read less