Exeter Fire Chief Eric Wilking retires after 42 years: Legacy cemented

EXETER — Dozens of well-wishers filled the Town Hall Friday afternoon to give Fire Chief Eric Wilking a proper send-off into retirement as he closes out a distinguished career in fire service that spans nearly 42 years.

At a retirement party that was at times emotional, Wilking was praised for his leadership of the department as he thanked a long list of individuals with whom he’s worked and crossed paths during his 19 years serving the town of Exeter.

“The firefighters, the EMTs, the paramedics, the officers. They are the ones who have the patient contacts and the customer service. It was truly my pleasure to support them every day. My hat’s off to you guys,” he said.

Members of town departments, town staff, local and state officials, family, friends and others from the fire service were among those who turned out to celebrate the chief and bid him farewell.

Town Manager Russ Dean commended Wilking for his leadership style.

“Your leadership has been exemplary,” Dean said. “The Exeter Fire Department is a better department because you have provided the leadership and guidance necessary for one of the finest fire departments in the state.”

Dean thanked Wilking for his efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic and for playing a key role in assisting with planning for the new police station and fire substation proposal, which voters approved in March.

Select Board Chairman Niko Papakonstantis struck a similar theme.

“Your legacy is going to be felt here for years and years to come,” he said.

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Papakonstantis described Wilking as a chief who had created a culture of inclusiveness, respect, stability, and honesty.

“You were respectful, you were civil, you were firm, but you were fair,” he said.

Keeping with tradition, Wilking was presented with a clock with his name, years of service and town seal, and a shadow box containing the American flag flown Friday morning in front of the public safety complex. He was also given a plaque congratulating him on his retirement by members of the Exeter Professional Firefighters IAFF Local 3491.

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In preparation for Wilking’s retirement, Assistant Chief Justin Pizon asked department members to provide a word they felt represented the chief or was meaningful to them. The words they shared included exemplary, considerate, determined, helpful, approachable, collaborative, and leader. Two members even described him as “Dad.”

“When I think about being a dad and finding what love really means because you love your kids unconditionally, which he definitely did, we were all his children, and he treated us that way,” Pizon said. “Your needs came second. All of us came first, and that is something that we will never, ever forget.”

Pizon also thanked the chief for his transparency.

“You never, ever, kept anything secret. You wanted to share everything,” he told the chief. “You wanted the best for all of us … If it wasn’t for that reason, I definitely would not be here today, and I know a lot of us feel the same way, so I really appreciate that very, very much.”