Chief George McDonald

George McDonald served as a firefighter with the Roscoe Fire Department before continuing his service when the organization became the Harlem-Roscoe Fire Protection District. He later served as Fire Chief for seven years, leading the department during a period of continued growth and community service.

A well-known local businessman, George owned McDonald's Shell Service Station and operated a used car dealership in Roscoe. Deeply committed to the community he called home, he was always willing to lend a helping hand. He ensured firefighters had access to fuel whenever it was needed by making keys to his service station available so fire apparatus could be refueled at any time.

The McDonald family's dedication to the fire service spanned multiple generations. His sons, Richard and Roger, both served as firefighters with the department, and his granddaughter, Rhonda McDonald, continues that tradition today as a dispatcher.

His daughter, Verna Bupprick, fondly recalled growing up in a firefighter's household: "We could set off the fire siren by a button on the wall in our kitchen. I remember as a teen, I didn't like that the fire phone came into our home because I couldn't talk to my boyfriend." Her memories offer a unique glimpse into the volunteer fire service and the close connection between the department and the families who supported it.

Chief McDonald's leadership, generosity, and unwavering commitment to his community helped shape the Harlem-Roscoe Fire Protection District during its formative years, leaving a legacy that continues through the generations of his family who have served the department.