The milestone event marked not only the company’s century-long legacy but also continued a tradition—Friendship holds a celebratory banquet every five years to recognize its members and accomplishments.
During the evening, the company paid tribute to its current officers and welcomed new “life members,” those who have proudly served the fire company for 25 years. The recognition highlighted the commitment and sacrifice of generations of volunteers who have stood ready to answer the call in times of need.
Since its founding in 1925, the Friendship Fire Company has been a cornerstone of the Butler Township community, providing fire protection, emergency response, and support for countless local events. The company’s members past and present have carried forward a strong tradition of volunteerism and service, making the centennial celebration both a look back at history and a commitment to the future.
Life Members Recognized:
- Jim Baglin
- Mike Becker
- Robert Becker
- David Bittner
- Johhn Boppel
- James Cairo
- David Carduff
- Tommy Finn
- Phil Groody Jr.
- Linda Harris
- Charles Harris
- Charles Hepler
- Mel Johhson
- Michael Kehler
- Michael Kiehl
- Doug Krill
- Stephen Kuzio
- James Lavelle
- Michelle Lavelle
- Kevin Masinick
- Pat McCabe
- Michael Onuskanich
- Anthony Pace
- James Swantek Sr.
- Verna Trautman
- Michael Wasko
- Richard Wetzel
- Joseph Wyatt
- Michael Yanuskiewicz
- Robert J. Yesalusky
- Bryan Yesalusky
- William Blickley
- Kacie Fetterolf
2025 Company Officers
- President Zack Chernewski
- Vice President Edward Benshunas
- Recording Secretary Joe Rusnak
- Treasurer - Larry Domalakes
- Financial Secretary - Jason Blozousky
- Trustee Christopher Kuzio
- Trustee Stephen Kuzio
- Trustee William Walter
- Fire Chief - Edward Beneshunas
- Assistant Fire Chief - Bryan Yesalusky
- Captain - David Malloy
- Chief Engineer - Christopher Kuzio
- Lieutenant - Jason Blozousky
- Lieutenant - Mike Kehler
- Fire Police Captain - Joe Rusnak
- Ladies Auxiliary President - Sandy Chernewski
- Ladies Auxiliary Vice President - Sara Achenbach
- Ladies Auxiliary Secretary - Phyllis Yesalusky
- Ladies Auxiliary Treasurer - Kathy Kraft
- Ladies Auxiliary Trustee - Cindy Damiter
- Ladies Auxiliary Trustee - Mary Toner
- Ladies Auxiliary Trustee - Donna Klemovage