Scholarship Winners In Memory Of Brookfield Firefighter Announced

BROOKFIELD, WI—Two Waukesha County Technical College students were awarded scholarships in memory of Marcia Helleckson-Rosecky, a Brookfield firefighter and paramedic. The 2021 scholarship was awarded to Clare Wolf and Madison Krenz, according to the City of Brookfield Fire Department.

Clare Wolf is a student at WCTC Fire and EMS Training Center, currently in the paramedic-training program. Her department affiliation is the Western Lakes Fire Department and Neosho Fire Department.

Wolf said what she loves most about the fire service is being put to the test and being challenged.

"I thrive when I am challenged. I have the adapt and overcome mindset. You find out really quickly where you stand and you know where you want to be. You have to put in the effort every single day. Every day is a new chance to be better than you were yesterday. I strive to continue to be put to the test and continue to overcome," Wolf said in a statement.

Her advice for women looking to join a similar career is that they are mentally strong enough.

"Never let anyone tell you that you can’t do it or push you around. You can do anything that you set your mind to. Adapt and overcome and never give up. It is worth every second," Wolf said.

The second scholarship recipient is Madison Krenz, a student at WCTC Fire and EMS Training Center, currently in the paramedic-training program. Her department affiliation is the Lake Country Fire and Rescue, Western Lakes Fire Department and Palmyra Public Safety.

Krenz said she loves getting the opportunity to meet new people everyday and impact lives.

Her advice to other women is to always believe in themselves and know they can do anything they put their minds to.

"Never be afraid to take healthy risks to push yourself to be better every time the tones drop," Krenz said in a statement.

About Marica Rosecky

Helleckson-Rosecky began working for the City of Brookfield Fire Department in 1997, she was the only female firefighter in the department at the time, according to her obituary.

She was recognized for her work as a firefighter/paramedic, receiving the City of Brookfield Distinguished Service Award in 2005 and a Retirement Award after being forced to retire following her Leukemia diagnosis in 2008.

Helleckson-Rosecky died on February 27, 2016 at the age of 41.

"Marcia was a respected and beloved member of the department," the fire department said.

The City of Brookfield Professional Fire Fighters Local 2051 established a scholarship on behalf of her family to support and encourage women to pursue their dreams of becoming firefighters.

For information on the scholarship and how to donate, visit the website.