Albert Lea Assistant City Manager Sack Thongvanh presents retiring Albert Lea Fire Capt. Mark Roche with a plaque for his service to the city during the past 33 years. Roche started as a firefighter and has served in numerous positions including as the city and county’s emergency manager, a building inspector and a fire lieutenant and captain. His last day was Wednesday. – Sarah Stultz/Albert Lea Tribune
Albert Lea Fire Capt. Mark Roche, left, talks with Freeborn County Sheriff’s Office Chief Deputy Glen Strom on Wednesday during a retirement party for Roche. – Sarah Stultz/Albert Lea Tribune
Tables of memorabilia for Albert Lea Fire Capt. Mark Roche are set up in the Albert Lea City Council Chambers Wednesday during a retirement party in his honor. – Sarah Stultz/Albert Lea Tribune