The Savage Fire Department welcomes seven new team members who bring diverse skills and unwavering commitment to our community. 

New Full-Time Firefighters

Riley Brunner returns to Minnesota after three years in North Carolina, bringing his wife, Kaitlyn, and their six-month-old daughter, Charlee, back to be closer to family. Originally from St. Cloud, Riley previously served as a paid-on-call firefighter with the Savage Fire Department. When off duty, he enjoys camping, hunting, fishing, and his annual trip to the Boundary Waters.

Marc Marispini (promoted from part-time) served as a Navy missile technician before spending 20 years in IT. He joined Savage Fire in August 2023 and recently completed his Paramedic Fire Science degree at Century College, earning his NREMT-P and Minnesota Paramedic license. Marc enjoys grilling, baking, gardening, and beekeeping with his fiancée Angie and their four children.

Emily Nelson (promoted from part-time) has served with Savage Fire for nearly two years and is inspired by the department’s strong culture and community connections. She stays active outdoors and enjoys boating with friends.

New Part-Time Firefighters

Mark Olson brings medical experience from his role as an EKG Technician at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester. With public service running in his family, he was drawn to Savage Fire’s reputation for training and professionalism. Mark stays active through weightlifting, sports, and outdoor activities.

Evalynn Abler recently moved to Savage and lives with her red lab, Lou, and cat Colonel Nubbins. She brings a strong desire to help her community and enjoys working out, cooking, fishing, hunting, and riding her motorcycle.

Matthew Otto was born and raised in Savage and has admired the fire department since childhood. He brings mechanical expertise from his career at a Ford dealership and currently maintains ambulances at Allina Health EMS. Matt enjoys mountain biking, downhill skiing, and softball.

Jesse Brassard moved from Massachusetts and now lives in Burnsville. As Maintenance Supervisor at H&B Elevators, he was inspired to pursue firefighting by conversations with his firefighter cousin. A ride-along with Savage Fire was his turning point. Jesse enjoys hiking with his wife, Courtney, and their two dogs, as well as fishing, hunting, and working on home projects.