DES MOINES, Iowa — Des Moines Fire Department Chief John TeKippe announced that after 16 years as chief, he will be retiring at the end of the year.

Fire Chief TeKippe has served the Des Moines metro for 32 years. Tekippe served in the United States Navy before joining the West Des Moines Fire Department. In 1996, TeKippe joined the DMFD, working from firefighter to captain, eventually making chief in 2009.

Des Moines Mayor Connie Boesen released a statement regarding TeKippe’s retirement saying, “I would like to thank Chief TeKippe for his dedication to the City of Des Moines and leading the Des Moines Fire Department over the last 16 years. Chief TeKippe has upheld a culture of excellence and continuous improvements to serve our residents in the most effective way, demonstrated by providing excellent and professional fire and medical services to all of our residents.”

TeKippe’s accomplishments as fire chief include the 2016 SAFER Grant, which provided funding for 13 new firefighters, the training and maintenance facility on Dean Avenue, opening Fire Station 11 in 2021 and beginning construction on Fire Station 4, which will be completed by the end of 2025.

“For decades, Chief TeKippe has worked tirelessly to advance the Des Moines Fire Department with 21st century solutions to improve fire and medical services for the residents of Des Moines,” City Manager Scott Sanders said. “The differences in how DMFD trains, treats and fights fires bring immense value to the safety and wellbeing of our residents across the Des Moines community.”

Chief TeKippe will continue his role till December 22, 2025. The City of Des Moines will begin a national search for the next DMFD Fire Chief immediately.