To the editor:

At the end of January, with little fanfare, one of the finest public servants Brown County has had the fortune of knowing retired after decades of service. He requested no party nor cared for any accolade. Yet he deserved both and more. As jail administrator, he supervised jailer and offender alike while maintaining a positive rapport with both. He was respected by judge, prosecutor, and defense attorney equally because he instilled trust in all. He knew when to be stern and when to crack a joke with wit that was unmatched. He did the right thing not for his own benefit but because his integrity required it. Those of us who knew him can only hope to possess half the qualities he exhibited daily. So if you see Mr. Mike Mathiowetz out enjoying his retirement, thank him. He deserves it. Tell him he did a fine job and those of us who worked with him say hello.

Paul Gunderson

Assistant County Attorney

New Ulm