A farewell celebration for recently retired South Whidbey Fire/EMS Deputy Chief Paul Busch on Friday, Jan. 22 from 4-7 p.m. at the Bayview Community Hall.

The public is invited to attend. Busch served with the district for 35 years. His final day was Dec. 31, 2015.

“It has been very rewarding and truly an honor to serve the public in their times of need,” Busch said in a press release. “Over the years I’ve watched us progress in every way from our equipment, to the number of calls, to our entire team of volunteers and staff,” he said. “I leave the department in very capable hands.”

Recently retired Fire Commissioner Mike Helland will also be honored at the celebration. Helland served the department for 24 years, 18 of which were as a fire commissioner. Helland’s final commission meeting was Jan. 14.