LIMA — After 13 years on the job, Allen County Coroner Dr. Gary Beasley is stepping down to enjoy his retirement.
Beasley, with Allen County WIC Director Barb Deepe, were honored by the governing board of Allen County Public Health Friday. Deepe has directed Allen County WIC since 1996.
Beasley reflected on his tenure as coroner, highlighting the many changes that have taken place over the past 13 years.
“We went from where things were just done from my home to progressing to an office,” he said. “Now we have a full-time investigator, a full-time deputy coroner at this point in time and a part-time secretary. It’s made the office a whole lot easier.”
Beasley’s responsibilities as coroner were more involved than one might think, he said.
“There’s a lot of things that a coroner has to deal with other than just pronouncing somebody and signing a death certificate,” he said. “There are legal issues that go along with that, getting the appropriate information out to attorneys and prosecutors and to the families. My job is to try to give them a reason why their loved ones are no longer with us in instances that are questionable.”
According to Allen County Republican Party Chairman Keith Cheney, a formal announcement concerning Beasley’s retirement will take place next week. As an elected official under the Republican banner, the Allen County Republican Central Committee will be responsible for appointing Beasley’s successor. Beasley plans to work one day next year, allowing his replacement to complete his term in two years, rather than force a special election by retiring before the end of the year.
Deepe’s tenure with WIC came with many changes, as well.
“We went from initially certifying people with carbon paper to a computer to coupons, and now we have a debit card,” she said. “But what hasn’t changed is the thousands of beautiful children in the community, a lot of good families.”
Effective Jan. 1, WIC Nutrition Coordinator Melinda Hobler will succeed Deepe as WIC director, with nutritionist Staci Schmenk to take Hobler’s position.
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