Grand Marshall Chuck McKusick
2003 Fridley Forty-Niner Parade

Our Grand Marshall this year - Is one talented guy
Who's led a multi-faceted life - Which no one would deny
Being the oldest of three brothers - Chuck, you certainly led the way
You were class president at Anoka high - At the U of M you did okay!!

From the U, it was off to William Mitchell - Where you got your law degree
Along the way you met Dianne - A great move, and I'm sure you agree
You got married and have lived in Fridley - For all of your 36 years
Where you both have been involved - As very loyal volunteers!!

Chuck, you worked as an attorney - For 25 years laboring hard
At the former Federal Cartridge - That was back during the old guard
Now during the same time period - There was that other career
At the Fridley Fire Department - Which ended this March, at 34 years!!

Bob Hughes got you to join - Bob was Fire Chief at the time
Then came Bob Aldrich - Working hard, you continued to climb
In the 80's you became Assistant Chief - Until Chief Aldrich retired
Then Chuck, you became the Fridley Chief - In 1991 you were hired!!

You helped create the training center - That is known throughout the state
You've taught "Handling Hazardous Materials" - In fact a leading advocate
You were always heavily involved - With Metro Fire Chiefs and Cat 22
Cat 22 is Chemical Assessment Team - For those who don't have a clue!!

Now Lauren and Christopher - Are the apple of Grandpa's eye
You love to spend time with them - Because Chuck, you're that kind of guy
Compliments of Kari, Miss Fridley 1992 - Those were the good old days
When you'd pull the Fridley Float - Or helping out in other ways!!

You'll always be remembered - For your sense of humor and great smile
You worked hard as 49er President - Always willing to go that extra mile
Chuck, you lead by example - Working hard to get things done
And now serving as Grand Marshall - Is a tribute, endorsed by everyone!!

And now your son Corey - Is following in his fathers shoes
He's now a Fridley Fire Fighter - What better role model could he choose
Your family and friends are quite proud - And hope retirement is fun
Chuck, the folks of Fridley thank you - For all that you have done!!
©Bud Dauphin/rhymelines.com