Shelley Frey, our 2015 Issaquah Hall of Fame inductee, embodies the best of community service, leadership and dedication.
As Eastside Fire & Rescue chaplain, she supports our community members during times of trauma and tragedy, offering compassionate words and a shoulder to lean on.
Since starting as Eastside Fire & Rescue’s volunteer chaplain in January 2004, Frey has responded to hundreds of calls — accidents, cardiac arrests, fires and other trying circumstances.
The calls never come at a convenient time, but she never hesitates or complains. Using her own time, vehicle and vacation time, she has traveled throughout our region to support families when they need help the most.
In addition to the caring and support she gives to families, her work allows emergency responders to get back to work more quickly and in service for their next call.
“Shelley is that person who is a rock in the face of tragedy,” a community member wrote in nominating Frey for the Hall of Fame. “She is the steadying force when a person’s life is falling apart. She is a miracle worker.”
Mayor Fred Butler announced the honor May 28, 2015, at the Issaquah Community Awards.
Each spring, the mayor and City Council president select a person to induct into the Issaquah Hall of Fame for making a difference in the community. The honor is based on a nominee’s service, leadership, civic-mindedness and other qualities.