Tyler County employees took time after the Dec. 23 Tyler County Commission meeting to honor Edwin “Bud” Weigle’s many years of service as a Tyler County Commissioner.

Weigle has served as a county commissioner for over 18 years. He serves as commission vice president.

He’s been active with the Tyler County Solid Waste Authority. Weigle also works closely with the Tyler County Fair Association, the Tyler County Speedway, the Farm Bureau, and the Tyler County Senior Citizens.

Weigle lost the general election in November to Republican John Stender. Stender, a former Tyler Consolidated High School football coach, will take office Jan. 1.

Commissioners Bob Wable and Charles “Pork” Smith, along with employees from every county department, surprised Weigle after their meeting by filing into the commission chambers and applauding Weigle. He was also presented with a card and a set of Black and Decker cordless tools. Smith told Weigle that his service has been invaluable to the county.

“You will certainly be missed,” said Smith. “Hopefully we can contact you and reap the benefits of all your knowledge and experience in the future. That way if we have a question, we’ll know where to find you.”

“I’m not hard to find,” joked Weigle.

After presenting Weigle with his gifts, employees gave Weigle hugs and wished him well. Also attending were Stender and Prosecuting Attorney-Elect Luke Furbee. Punch and desserts were made available in the hallway.

After eating, the employees gathered on the main stairway to pose for one last picture with Weigle. Weigle was humbled by the outpouring of support.

“It’s been a pleasure working with all of you,” said Weigle. “You really have all been a big help. It’s been an honor for me to work with all of you. Thanks for everything.”