Bob Tutko

I began my Fire Service career in 1979 as a Volunteer Firefighter with the Frankfort Fire Protection District, obtained my Paramedic Certification from Ingalls Hospital in 1983 and was hired by Earl Field in 1985 where I was assigned to the North Riverside Contract as a Firefighter/Paramedic.

In 1987, I was hired by the Downers Grove Fire Department where I was promoted to Lieutenant in 1993 and then Deputy Chief of Administrative Services in 2001. I earned numerous commendations during that time including a Medal of Merit in April 2000. I retired from Downers Grove in 2010 with 23 years of service.

I went on to serve as the Deputy Chief with the Oak Lawn Fire Department and Fire Chief of the Lincoln Township Fire Department in Stevensville, Michigan. Most recently, I served as the Fire Chief of the Effingham Fire Department from 2018 to 2021.

I have been married to my wife Patti for 33 years, we have 3 grown children and 4 grandchildren, and a faithful dog named Charlie.

I have been a member of the Chicagoland Speedway/Route 66 Raceway Safety Team since 2001.

I have an Associates Degree from Moraine Valley Community College, a Bachelor’s Degree from Southern Illinois University and a Master’s Degree in Public Safety Administration from Lewis University.

I hold numerous state certifications including; Chief Officer, Safety Officer, Safety and Health Officer, Fire Inspector, Fire/Arson Investigator, and Paramedic. I am also certified as a Firefighter in the State of Michigan.