Chris Aberle

The Minot Fire Department held a celebration Thursday honoring Capt. Chris Aberle who retired after more than 28 years of service.

According to the MFD, Aberle began his career on April 10, 1996, as a laborer in the Sanitation Department before moving to Property Maintenance in 1997. Aberle became a firefighter on Nov. 29, 1999, and served as captain since his promotion in January 2015.

Throughout his career, Aberle became known for his unmatched knowledge with the department’s apparatus — able to name every tool, part and function of the trucks. The MFD lauded Aberle as a skilled and versatile firefighter with experience in nearly every aspect of the job, from fire suppression to dive and technical rescue.

Aberle was described by coworkers as someone with a “tough exterior and a kind, funny heart,” having earned a reputation as a reliable friend, strong leader and hands-on mentor who held high standards but never hesitated to put in the hard work himself.