So long, Lefty

Fifty years of service to the fire department have not only left an impression on Roger "Lefty" Ginger, but also on those who know him.

That sentiment was clear Sunday afternoon during a special ceremony commemorating Ginger's half-century of service to Everly Fire & Rescue. The longtime volunteer officially hung up his helmet at the conclusion of the service, which was attended by a full house of well-wishers at the Hap Ketelsen Community Center.

Ginger addressed the crowd and said he was grateful to be able to serve the Everly community for two-thirds of his life. He called the fire department his "second family" and said it was an honor to work with so many fellow volunteers over the past 50 years.

"I've been blessed to know so many people that I've called a friend," he said. "I want to say thank you."

Ginger is the oldest-serving member in the history of Everly Fire & Rescue – the next closest logged 38 years of service. Twelve of the department's 17 current members weren't even born when he joined in 1973.

"He's been around so long that he's seen the transition of long coats and short hoses to short coats and long hoses," joked firefighter Tara Patrick, who helped organize the event.

Ginger received a raft of items commemorating his firefighting career; however, the most special surprise won't be hung on a wall.

His daughter, Kelly Cooper, made a surprise appearance during the middle of the sendoff. She lives in Oregon and made the trip back to Everly in secret to be there for her dad's big day.

Cooper recalled growing up in Everly and admiring her father for his character and volunteerism. Everyone in town knew Lefty, she said, and he knew everyone.

"He's been my hero my whole life," she said. "I'm so proud of you."

Patrick said after the ceremony that Ginger will be missed, even though she still expected to see him at the fire station on a regular basis.

"He's been like a dad to me all these years," she said.