Richard Boozer loves being the Chief at River Oaks Volunteer Fire Department.

Boozer has served as chief for the last 20 years at River Oaks VFD, which is located a few miles outside Orrville.

Boozer credits his wife, Allyson Boozer, and the River Oaks VFD for helping him run a smooth operation. Boozer and his wife just returned from a two-month vacation in South Florida, traveling in their RV.

“Allyson’s the secretary who orders all of the equipment and makes sure the bills get paid,” Boozer said. “The staff handles things when I’m gone out of town. My wife and I camp out a lot.”

For 40 years, Boozer worked in Construction for Alabama Gas Corporation (ALAGASCO), which is now Spire. He retired in 2003, four years after becoming chief.

At 75 years old, Boozer admits that it can occasionally be difficult to go out on call.

“The only tough about it is the older you get, the tougher it is to get out of bed and respond to a call,” Boozer joked.

Boozer said his love of firefighting runs deep.

“I enjoy helping people,” Boozer said. “I’ve enjoyed helping people all over the years, whether its getting a snake out from under someone’s couch, directing traffic in a wreck or putting out a fire. It’s a good feeling knowing you’ve helped someone over the years. I’ve gotten letters from people thanking me for helping them and it feels good.”