To the editor:

New Ulm has lost a city father who truly had our community’s best interest deep in his heart. Among the finest couples to tackle the job of New Ulm Mayor, Bob Beussman and First Lady Cheryl dedicated countless hours over the years to promoting and advocating for the community of New Ulm.

Thirty years ago when I was elected to represent the First Ward on the City Council my first constituent call came from a Bob Beussman. He was not happy that speeding snowplows continuously shot snow over the boulevard and on to the sidewalks of his corner lot. I pled his case to the street department and had to explain to him not to take the street crews’ well intentioned efforts personally. They had a difficult job to do for the benefit of the whole community.

Years later, I revisited our encounter at the Home Show with Bob at my Skillings Technology booth. Turns out he was newly retired from a teaching career and a free agent for a part-time gig. I always hired tech geeks and in our conversation that was the vibe he put forth. So I hired him and he was the most prompt, conscientious and thorough gentleman on my staff.

I say gentleman because that is the impression I got in observing him from afar in his position as our Mayor. Along with a gift of gab, good humor and professional musical talent, Bob worked tirelessly to elevate New Ulm’s stature and to celebrate our gains and uniqueness.

We look to our leaders to bring unity and pride to our community. Bob Beussman, a job well done.

Bob Skillings

New Ulm