Glenview's new(ish) fire chief takes a big step on lifelong path

For years, Tony DeRose wanted to be a firefighter.

His reasons? Altruism and purpose.

"The ability to give back to the community, be part of the community," he said.

Now, he is not only a firefighter, he's a chief.

DeRose was appointed July 1 as Glenview fire chief, dropping the "interim" tag he'd held since the retirement of former Chief Ralph Ensign last August.

"It's truly an honor," said DeRose, 45. "I guess you always have your sights set on the next position."

He is responsible for behind-the-scenes stuff such as managing budgets and ensuring department employees are properly equipped.

Plus, he will be the face of the Glenview Fire Department.

DeRose got excited about a career in firefighting while attending Libertyville High School, where he graduated in 1993.

He earned his officer certification through the Office of the State Fire Marshal, and a bachelor's degree in fire science management from Southern Illinois University.

Before arriving with the Glenview department, DeRose served 21 years with the Countryside Fire Protection District near Vernon Hills, rising through the ranks from firefighter to deputy chief.

"Chief DeRose has done an outstanding job leading our fire department during these difficult times of public health crisis," Glenview Village Manager Matt Formica said in a news release.

"We are confident Tony's sound leadership and extensive experience makes him the ideal person to lead our high-quality team of fire and EMS (emergency medical services) professionals," Formica added.

A Grayslake resident, in August DeRose will celebrate 21 years of marriage to his wife, Casie. They have two teenage children who attend Warren High School. On his days off, he likes to boat, ride motorcycles and watch his children's sports activities.

"It's an honor to be a part of the fire department and the Village of Glenview," he said.

DeRose will have his hands full with the planning and construction of a new Station No. 8 project to be built on the site of the current one on Landwehr Road.

Construction is expected to start in late September, DeRose said, and is estimated to take up to a year to build.