IPSWICH — Chief Andy Theriault and the Ipswich Fire Department, and Chief Thomas Martinuk and the Middleton Fire Department, regretfully announce the passing of retired Chief Henry Michalski on Friday, July 31, after a battle with cancer. He was 72.
Chief Michalski served as a member of the Middleton Fire Department and rose through the ranks before being appointed Fire Chief in April of 1993. He was Chief in Middleton until October of 2000, when he became Chief of the Ipswich Fire Department, serving until his retirement in 2004.
He served in the U.S. Air Force as a member of the 633rd Combat Support Group in Vietnam. He was decorated with the Airman’s Medal for his bravery and service as an airborne firefighter, the Air Medal, first through third Oak Leaf Clusters, Air Force Commendation Medal first through third Oak Leaf Clusters, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award and the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal.
“We thank Chief Michalski for his years of service, from his time serving in the Air Force to his four decades as a firefighter in Ipswich and Middleton,” Chief Theriault said. “We send our deepest condolences to his family.”
“Our condolences go out to the family and friends of Chief Michalski,” Chief Martinuk said. “It is sad to see another longtime member of the department pass on.”
To leave a message of condolence for Chief Michalski’s family, please visit www.LyonsFuneral.com.