Hoffman Estates fire chief honored for 35 years of service

Hoffman Estates Trustee Gary Pilafas gently reminded the audience at Monday's board meeting that he was only 6 years old when Fire Chief Robert Gorvett joined the fire department.

Gorvett briefly left the chamber and wasn't present for the good-natured ribbing from Pilafas. The village board recognized Gorvett on Monday, marking his 35 years working full time for the village. His wife Laurie and a group of his fellow firefighters attended in support.

Gorvett actually started working for the village more than 35 years ago. He began as a volunteer firefighter in 1972 and joined full time in 1975.

After numerous titles, including a couple stints as acting fire chief, he was given the permanent title as chief in 2008. He's the 13th fire chief in Hoffman Estates' history.