By Terry Witt – Spotlight Senior Reporter

                Retiring Police Chief Dennis Strow was given a going away party Friday on his last day in office.

            The chief quoted from a famous storybook character when asked what it was like to say goodbye to the job he loved.

            “Don’t cry because it’s over. Smile because it happened,” Strow said quoting from Dr. Seuss, a famous character in children’s books.

            When asked to recall his favorite memories from more than 10 years on the job it didn’t take long for Strow to respond.

            “Coming to work every day,” he said. “And that’s one thing I started 10 ½ years ago. Retirement never was in the picture. In January and February, I began thinking about it. Maybe it’s time to go and enjoy life,” Strow said.

            Levy County Commissioner Matt Brooks, who grew up in Williston, said Strow promised to be active in the community when he took the job and he has lived up to that commitment.

            “When he came here, he showed he was going to be involved in the community and bring everyone together. I think he’s been true to his word from start to finish, from organizing car shows to stuffing the Humvee for kids, just being available, always in our community,” Brooks said. “Anytime there was an issue he was right there. We couldn’t have had a better chief for Williston. I hate to see him go but I know he will enjoy retirement. Ms. Susie will keep him busy.”

            State Rep. Joe Harding presented Strow with a framed certificate from the Florida House of Representatives honoring his 50 years in law enforcement and his more than a decade and a half of service in Williston.

            “I appreciate his service. It’s a long, decorated career in law enforcement. We’re proud to have him in Williston for the time he was here. I know him and call him a friend,” Harding said.

            A table loaded with gifts awaited Strow after he finished shaking hands and talking to longtime friends. He and his wife Susie are planning to travel for the first phase of his retirement.

            Mike Rolls, the police chief replacing Strow, was on hand for the retirement party, which was held in the bay of Williston Fire Rescue. Rolls will take over at midnight tonight.

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Enterprise Reporting by Terry Witt April 22, 2022; Posted April 22, 2022