Musialowski retires after decades as firefighter, servant

Wixom Assistant Fire Chief Jerry Musialowski was always the first to jump on the truck when a call came in, and was the first to lend a listening ear to his fellow firefighters. As of Dec. 23, 2011, Musialowski retired, hanging up his boots after serving the city for 14 years in the Wixom Fire Department.

Colleagues characterized him as a soft-spoken man ready to offer constructive criticism. He was known endearingly around the station as “Grandpa Jerry.”

“Jerry is unique — he dedicated his work life to public service in one way or another and it is with a lot of sadness I see him go,” said Public Safety Director Clarence Goodlein. “I am happy for he and his family, but in addition to Jerry being a good leader and mentor to his fellow firefighters, he is a good guy, good friend and has been an invaluable asset to the organization.”

Musialowski plans to take this opportunity to spend more time with family and take a leisurely approach to life.

“It’s been a privilege and honor to serve, but it’s a young man’s game and it’s time to pass the torch,” he said. “I plan to spend time with my kids and grand kids and do some hunting and fishing and enjoy life.”

Wixom Fire Chief Jeff Roberts worked closely with Musialowski for years and said he respects his integrity.

“First and foremost, Jerry was always a firefighter and believed that was his purpose in life,” Roberts said.

To honor his service, the Wixom City Council recognized Musialowski at its Dec. 13 meeting, lauding his personal and professional commitment to the department, city residents, and the country. Furthermore, Mayor Kevin Hinkley issued a Proclamation of Appreciation and Service to Musialowski, designating Dec. 23, 2011 as Jerry Musialowski Day.

Musialowski was also recognized by the Oakland County Board of Commissioners, the state Legislature, the United States Air Force and the U.S. Congress for his commitment to fire service.

“Jerry didn’t want notoriety for his efforts,” Roberts said. “He did it because it was the right thing to do and he didn’t want any accolades for it.”

“It’s nice to be recognized but I wasn’t looking for it, though it’s much appreciated,” Musialowski said.

His retirement ends a storied career spanning 45 years of firefighting service. He also served in the military. He began his career as a firefighter in 1966 when he joined the Air Force at 17-years-old.

“He served four years in Vietnam,” Roberts said. “He has a million war stories, and he knows everyone.”

Goodlein defines a good man as one who possesses strong character, acts honorably and is directed by a moral compass. He said Musialowski fits the bill.

“Jerry is a good man and I’m better for knowing him,” Goodlein said.

Musialowski continued his career at Ford Motor Company for roughly 30 years, where he assumed a role as the Manager of Security and Fire Suppression at the Wayne Truck and Assembly Complex.

During his tenure with Ford, he was hired as a part-time, paid-on-call firefighter for the Wixom Fire Department in 1997. He was promoted to Fire Lieutenant in 2005 and Assistant Fire Chief in 2007.

“Jerry’s kind, humble, friendly and fatherly-like personality fit perfectly with his desire to mentor and train new personnel, as you might expect,” said Wixom City Manager Mike Dornan. “Jerry became the Police and Fire Training Coordinator in 2006.”

Currently Roberts said there are no immediate plans to replace Musialowski.

“There isn’t anyone to fill his shoes,” Roberts said.

“My hat goes off these guys who made 1,000 runs last year,” Musialowski said. “That’s a lot for paid-on-call firefighters who have other jobs and commitments.”