Firefighter retires after 33 years, works last day with sons

CINCINNATI (WKRC) - Capt. Jack Klosterman has been a firefighter for 36 years. Friday he started his final 24-hour shift, working side-by-side with his two sons.
Capt. Klosterman had worked with his older son, Josh, on a shift but not Eric. It was truly a family affair when Klosterman's six grandchildren stopped by to see him.
"It was kind of one of those things. I never dreamed of it when I was coming up and the kids were here running around the firehouses when they were kids," said Capt. Klosterman.
They had a busy day at the fire station that houses the 29's. Capt. Klosterman said he would do it all over again.
"It's kind of a little bit sad but I'm ready. I've seen plenty, I've done plenty, and it's an ok thing," Capt. Klosterman said of his retirement.
Captain Klosterman has seen a lot in his career. He responded to the BASF explosion that killed one and injured 71 and the Queen City Barrel fire. His sons were excited that they could work with their father on his last tour. Their father inspired them to become firefighters.
"It's a cool opportunity that we have to see him go after growing up as kids coming to the firehouse," said Josh Klosterman.
"Working with my dad is pretty special," Eric Klosterman said.
Eric and Josh put together a special last dinner for their dad at the firehouse. But when it was time to make a run they're ready racing off to a head-on collision downtown. Capt. Klosterman has seen a lot of things change over the years but the one thing that hasn't changed is the way he treats the people he meets on his runs. He said he treats them like family.
"I always say you see the best of humanity and the worst of humanity but somebody's got to do it. I enjoy it and love the team work, comraderie," said Capt. Klosterman.
And that attitude is why he's considered one of the best in the department. Several firefighters stopped by to say goodbye. They said he is a leader who always stays calm under pressure.
"You know you're here to serve and it's been a great run."
Capt. Klosterman said he plans to travel and play golf during his retirement.

[@danieltaz6555]

I worked 31 years of fire service in suburban Chicago my career was from April 1986 at age 20 almost 21 years old retired end of July 2017 age 51 almost 52 years old

[@james8156]

I was so fortunate to have worked with my father on the FD and I am so proud that I followed him into this great and noble career.

[@benjaminbrown1856]

your father is a very good man god bless him

[@minniemyrick4714]

Him and his sons together one last time. That's so amazing 🙏

[@muspobear]

Love these hero stories. Be safe out there BROS & SISTRS

[@benjaminbrown1856]

god bless you sir for your service your buddy ben Brown from Cincinnati ohio Oakley

[@warrenw.1544]

God Bless you Capt.!!!!!

[@donbrinkman3874]

Congrats and enjoy"your" time.

[@biankadiaz1235]

The fire service was a family business.

[@stevenkelly9731]

Man enjoy your retirement

[@shaynewheeler9249]

😢😢😢😢😢

[@aaronmichael7116]

NEPOTISM !! And in our city, a family member is not allowed to be in charge of a family member, so fail again !!

[@glock22shooter]

By all means, cry harder.