Southern Wisconsin Times

On Sunday, January 14, 2024, Kenneth Pizzurro retired from the Janesville Fire Department (JFD) and the City of Janesville after more than 20 years of service. Pizzurro, who began his career with the Wisconsin Rapids Fire Department after graduating from Madison Area Technical College (MATC), joined the JFD in 2003 and held various positions, including firefighter paramedic, hazardous materials technician, firefighter EMT, and motor pump operator.

The JFD expressed its gratitude to Pizzurro for his two decades of dedicated service. Fire Chief Ponkauskas stated, "The Fire Department would like to thank Mr. Pizzurro for his 20-year career with the department and wish him well in his next adventure in life. Congratulations and enjoy your retirement!"

Reflecting on his career, Pizzurro remarked that the most rewarding aspect was "helping people." He emphasized that regardless of the scale of the problem, being able to provide assistance to those in need was an unparalleled feeling.

While he will miss aiding citizens, Pizzurro expressed his anticipation for no longer being awakened in the middle of the night. Additionally, he humorously mentioned that he would not miss meals prepared by less skilled cooks, stating, "There were days I'd walk into the station and just know I would be ordering Jimmy Johns."

With his newfound free time, Pizzurro has plans to remodel his 1870's home in Beloit. Furthermore, once his son Samuel graduates from college, he may consider relocating to a warmer climate. Pizzurro confessed, "I can't stand the snow. I'm looking forward to being somewhere warm."

Pizzurro also intends to spend a significant amount of time engaging in outdoor activities. He expressed his passion for turkey hunting, fly fishing, and simply enjoying the beach.

The City of Janesville joins the JFD in expressing appreciation for Kenneth Pizzurro's more than 20 years of dedicated service to his community and the department.