The intersection of Adams and McCall Streets in Peoria is now known as Melvin Getz Way.
Getz founded the Getz Fire Equipment Company more than 50 years ago. City officials praised the company as a long-time anchor for South Adams Street. Getz’s son, Rod, says the tribute highlights the personal and economic benefit of the family-owned company:
“We have a lot of employees, they live here, they spend money here. It’s awesome to know that the third generation is coming in. We want to continue for another 50 years.”
The Getz Fire Equipment company now operates in three states and employs 125 people.