Kleman leaves county engineer’s dept.

Van Wert County Engineer Superintendent George Kleman retired from a 35-year career with the County Engineering Department on June 30.

Kleman began working for the department in 1976 as a part-time employee under County Engineer Paul Gardner.  After working his way up through the ranks to road foreman, he was promoted to superintendent in 2001.

Since that time, he has performed his duties well, with great rapport with co-workers, trustees, and the general public,” said County Engineer Kyle Wendel, who added that his leadership and experience will be sorely missed.

A number of county employees, both past and present, held a party honoring Kleman on June 30.  At that time, Kleman was presented with gifts from employees, as well as a custom made plaque in the shape of Van Wert County.  The plaque was hand crafted by Rob Wilhelm, who was recently promoted to take over as superintendent to replace Kleman.