Will County Gazette

Fire Chief Tracy Natyshok has retired from the Park Forest Fire Department after 28 years of service. Natyshok joined the department on July 28, 1997, and rose through the ranks to become fire chief, a position he held for nearly eight years.

During his tenure as chief, Natyshok led efforts to modernize equipment and vehicles, expand training opportunities for staff, secure important grants, and improve community outreach. His leadership was also noted during the COVID-19 pandemic, when he ensured emergency services continued safely.

Deputy Fire Chief Mark Cotrano spoke about Natyshok’s influence on the department. "Chief Natyshok was a mentor, a teacher, and above all, a servant leader," Cotrano said. "His impact on this department is immeasurable. He always put the team and community first. We're going to miss his calm presence and visionary thinking."

Natyshok was known as a role model among firefighters and supported the Park Forest Firefighters Association Local 1263. He earned respect across different village departments.

After retirement, Natyshok plans to teach at the Illinois Fire Service Institute and spend more time with his family. The Village board and staff honored him earlier in the week with a resolution recognizing his contributions and wishing him well in retirement.

Natyshok’s final day is Monday, July 28—exactly 28 years after he began working for Park Forest.