LAWRENCE — When Peter Takvorian became the city's fire chief, he got his initiation by water, not fire.
Just months after he was appointed, the city had a major flood.
For handling that disaster, and more, Takvorian was one of two local heroes honored at a fundraiser for Elder Services of the Merrimack Valley on May 9. Chelmsford police Inspector Gail Beaudoin also was lauded for her work to protect the elderly from fraud.
Renowned artist Michael Israel who creates paintings of America's first responders — firefighters, police, and veterans — helped raise more than $44,000 for Elder Services.
Takvorian has been with the Lawrence Fire Department for 26 years, and played an indispensable role during Lawrence's flood rescue.
Takvorian was a deputy chief before he became chief in February 2006. As fire chief, he is also the emergency management director for the city. He also has served as captain at the Engine 9 station on Bailey Street.
Takvorian was born and raised in the city and graduated Merrimack College in North Andover in 1974. He was a social worker for the Lawrence Housing Authority for five years, before taking the firefighters exam.
He and his wife, Ann, have been married for 38 years. He enjoys bass fishing throughout New England and is a photography buff.
