BUCYRUS — Bucyrus Police Chief Dave Koepke announced his retirement during Bucyrus City Council’s online meeting Tuesday evening.
Koepke said his retirement will be effective June 12 after 31 years of service with the department.
“I have been honored with the offer of becoming a program coordinator and instructor with the criminal justice department at North Central State,” Koepke said. “It’s a great opportunity to serve in a different role.”
He said his career with the Bucyrus Police Department has been extremely rewarding and enjoyable.
“I have had the honor of working with so many amazing people,” Koepke said.
He said the interim police chief position will be filled by Capt. Joe Greathouse and pointed out that Greathouse is a graduate of North Central State College along with several other current officers and Crawford County Sheriff’s Office deputies.
He received a standing ovation by council members online through Go Meeting and several wished him well.
“You will definitely be missed by so many and have done so much for our community,” Council President Kurt Fankhauser said.
Council member Kevin Myers said if there were a Mount Rushmore for police chiefs, Koepke would be on it.
Koepke’s full statement may be found below.