05/31/2026
Friday was Battalion Chief David Graveen’s 23rd year of service to the Merrill community. During his time with the department, Dave has been consistently involved in all facets of our department.
Graveen is a 1998 Wausau West High School graduate. He continued his education with an Associate Degree from Fox Valley Technical College. Dave did his college internship with the Appleton Fire Department. He holds multiple certifications and licenses including Paramedic, Fire Officer, Driver Operator - Pumper & Aerial, and Fire Inspector. During his time with us, he served 11 years as a Temporary Supervisory (acting Battalion Chief). Graveen has helped facilitate use of our ImageTrend Reporting software and coordinated our fire internship program. In addition to his duties as shift commander, BC Graveen is also responsible for our EMS Division which is no small task.
Besides his work for the fire department, Dave served IAFF Local 847 as Secretary/Treasurer from 2009 - 2018. For over a decade, he has also organized the large raffle held during the annual Allan Soward Memorial Softball Tournament. Graveen routinely participates in other annual off-duty activities of the fire department as well like the Pine Crest New Year's party, Lobsterfest, Labor Day parade, Community Night Out, Adopt-A-Highway program, and Shop with a Hero event at Wal-Mart. Finally, Dave is a large supporter of various fundraisers in the community especially those of his co-workers' kids.
Battalion Chief Graveen boasts many letters of appreciation and recognition of various emergency calls that he has been involved with. David is the main cook for his shift’s morning breakfasts. His fellow co-workers thoroughly enjoy Dave's ability to break-in a Leatherman tool and are amazed by his consumption of chicken wings.
Dave and his wife Andrea live in the city with their 2 children, Sam & Abby. Many times they accompany Dave on his many volunteer activities. The family is also very supportive of various non-profit organizations.
It's clear to see how fortunate the Merrill community is to have such a great employee and family in their midst. Today on his work anniversary at the Merrill Fire Department, we ask you help us thank and congratulate Battalion Chief David Graveen for his dedicated and thankless service to our community.
