08/25/2026
❗We've had 3 members retire in 2026 and each deserve a special recognition. Congratulations and thank you to retired Chief Greg Pederson, Captain Tim Palm, and Firefighter Darren Poikonen. Enjoy your well earned retirements!❗
Fire Chief Greg Pederson retired from Mound Fire on June 30, 2026, after serving on the Mound Fire Department for over 51 years. Chief Pederson began his career in 1975 as a paid-on-call firefighter and worked his way through the ranks and became the department’s first full-time Chief in 2004. Chief Pederson’s wealth of knowledge, firefighting skills, and years of leadership will be greatly missed. Congratulations to Chief Greg Pederson on his retirement. A BIG thank you to him, his wife Vickie, and their daughters for their years of dedicated service! 51 years is a huge commitment which requires support from his entire family.
Captain Tim Palm retired from the department on April 5, 2026, following 36+ years of dedicated service. Tim followed in his grandfather’s and father’s footsteps to become a firefighter, and Tim’s son, Carter, joined our department in 2015. Four generations! Captain Tim was a dedicated firefighter and could always be counted on participating in our 50+ public outreach programs each year. His knowledge and help with training our new firefighters will be missed. Thank you to Tim, his wife Kristi and his 4 children for their support.
Darren Poikonen retired from the department on June 1, 2026, after 26+ years of service. Darren‘s highest rank was Lieutenant. Darren conducted many fire prevention programs throughout the Westonka School District for students of all ages. He was known as “Firefighter Darren” when presenting programming to the youth of our community. Darren’s experience and public relations dedication will be missed. Thank you to Darren’s family for their support.
