Many kids dream of growing up to be a firefighter. For one Tower Lakes west side neighbor, Griffin Van Black, that dream came true. By the vibe this unassuming guy gives off — never bragging or boasting — you’d never know that he has saved many lives.
Griffin’s a down-to-earth, grounded, even-keeled person – and confident. It’s that type of personality that makes him the perfect firefighter. “There are bad days on the job, but then there are really good days that make up for it. You feel good after saving someone from a car accident or recovering someone from the icy waters of Lake Michigan,” says Griffin, both of which he has done. He’s a certified scuba diver and is the water rescue expert on the department.
Griffin grew up in Michigan and went to The University of Dayton to study history. After graduation, he was accepted into Officer Candidate School and was commissioned an Officer in the U.S. Navy. He spent time in Pensacola, San Diego and Great Lakes learning how to fight fires on ships. During his 6-1/2 years with the Navy, he served in a variety of places, including Afghanistan and Iraq. In April 2008, several months after leaving the Navy, he was hired by the City of Highland Park as one of 48 firefighters in their department, which serves Ravinia Music Festival. Working the typical firefighter shift — 24 hours on and 48 hours off – is not ideal for family life, but it’s the most efficient way for the department.
Griffin, his wife, Tanya, their two children, Jack (4) and Brooke (2), and dog Ben, have lived in Tower Lakes for 2-1/2 years. They wanted a more suburban lifestyle after living in Wrigleyville for 4 years and chose Tower Lakes because of its uniqueness. “There’s no other suburb like it around,” says Griffin. And they have taken advantage of the lake and community – fishing and attending the various social functions.
So next time you’re walking the neighborhood, be sure to say hello to Griffin, your friendly firefighter.