Jim Leffler joined the Fire Department in 1977 following in the footsteps of his father-in-law, Bill Raymond, a long-time Assistant Chief and the last volunteer Chief of the Department. He is a graduate of Kenston High School and Miami University. He became a full-time firefighter with University Heights in 1978 and currently holds the rank of Captain with the city. He continued to serve with Chagrin Falls as a volunteer, and then as one of the first EMS personnel when the department took over that service in 1988. With the retirement of Chief Jack Phillips, he became Chief of Department in 1996 and served in that position until January, 2008 when he stepped down to his current position as Assistant Chief. Jim lives in South Russell with his wife, Leslie, who also serves as the department’s Executive Assistant. They enjoy riding their Harleys and spending time at Lake Mohawk. His son, Jimmy, also serves with Chagrin Falls and as a career firefighter with Beachwood. His younger son, Scott is currently an anesthesiology resident with University Hospitals.
lefflerj@cffd.net
