02-03-2025
Appleton Fire Department Captain retires after 29 years of service
APPLETON, Wis. (WFRV) – The Appleton Fire Department is celebrating the lengthy and dedicated career of one of its own after Captain Nelessen retired after 29 years of service.
A Facebook post from the Appleton FD has congratulated Captain Jeffrey 'Nelly' Nelessen on his retirement and is celebrating his well-accomplished career.
Captain Nelessen spent his entire career in Appleton, joining the Department as a firefighter in July 1995. Nelessen was then promoted to Driver/Engineer in 2001, Lieutenant in 2007, and finally to Captain in 2022.
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As he steps away from the job, Nelly wants to say thank you—for the camaraderie, the memories, and the support over the years. The fire service has been more than a career; it has been a family, and he is grateful for every moment spent with the crews at the station and in the field. He encourages firefighters to always train hard, pursue excellence, and take care of one another, both on and off the job. Most of all, he reminds everyone to never lose sight of why we do what we do. 'It has done me good,' said the fox, 'because of the color of the wheat fields.' Jeff, thank you for your many years of public service and enjoy your retirement!
Appleton Fire Department
Congratulations Captain Nelessen, and thank you for your service.
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