Douglas County Treasurer retiring after 27 years of service

By Karen Larsen

County employees, other North Central Washington treasurers, fellow Link riders and close friends were invited to a party at North Central Washington Community Hall Dec. 6 to say good-bye to Mary Dodge, who will be retiring as Douglas County treasurer at the end of the year.

Dodge served for 27 years, beginning when she was appointed in October 1983.

The program included a social time, refreshments and wine, an address given by county auditor Thad Duvall, a slide show and the chance for others to say a few words about Dodge.

Duvall said that Mary not only served well as Douglas County treasurer, but also became president of the State Treasurers Association and president of the Washington Association of County Officials.

She served as a role model for other treasurers in the state.

Duvall praised her community involvement and her work to bring the office into the computer age.

Dodge was presented with a vase in recognition of  her contribution to the county.

Treasurer-elect Nona Haberman arranged the slide show.

The show included a photo of Dodge when she first began as treasurer, other photos from the past, and photos of county employees waving good-bye.

Dodge addressed those gathered saying, “You have no idea how much I have loved what I did.”

The party was organized by Dodge’s administrative assistant, Patty Frigard, along with other staff members.

Frigard said that though the party itself was not a surprise to Dodge, the program was.