Wynn Meehan Retires - Starts A New Chapter
 | Author:
Dee Gannon
MT43 News Correspondent |
Wynn Meehan Retires - Starts A New Chapter Dee Gannon Wynn’s Next Chapter
This reporter had a chance to sit down and spend a few minutes talking to our retiring Sheriff, Wynn Meehan. He had attended the swearing-in ceremony of the newly-elected officials; shaking hands and chatting with friends and neighbors.
Wynn acknowledged that it was a bittersweet day. After serving Broadwater County for 22 years and 30 days, always 24 hours a day; the first thing he says he will do is turn off his phone. “I’m happy to sleep all night long; not having to worry about what I may have missed. I still perk my ears a bit if I see lights or hear a siren; but then, I stop and remember…it’s just not up to me, anymore.”
Is Wynn retiring? Not likely. You can find him at Watson Irrigation, beginning January 23. Said Wynn, “It gives me a few weeks to learn how NOT to be boss”, He will be working at “whatever needs done. I’m just happy to be able to work. I’ve got my ranch, my woodworking, and now Watson’s. I won’t be bored, for sure. I began as a firefighter; so, that is a possibility, too”.
Being a sheriff is a very tough, but very rewarding job. Wynn has been to nine plane crashes; numerous car crashes (including Deputy Mason Moore); fires and deaths. He related how hard it is to be helpless sometimes; but in more ways, he finds hope in people. Santa Sheriff, coffee with a Cop, and Lunch with a Cop (at the school cafeteria) are just a few of the programs that he implemented while sheriff. “When we can connect with our community; it just feels good. I hope those programs continue.”
Meehan has felt the love of this community, as well. December 30, 2007, his wife was killed in an auto accident. “The community surrounded me, lifting me and my boys up in a way that’s immeasurable. When Mason was killed, the whole community ached; but still showed me so much love. I’m so grateful.”
Any advice for Nick Rauser? “I’ve been training him for this job, awhile. I’ve told him many things…but not everything. He will have to learn as he goes; there is just so much, and I want him to be surprised!”
When you are out and about and see Wynn Meehan, thank him for caring enough to serve us for two decades. And when you see Sheriff Nick Rauser, congratulate him; and know that he has a big job to do. Let’s do whatever we can to help.
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PhotoCredit: Nancy Marks
Image 1 Caption: Wynn Meehan (Photo by Nancy Marks)
