Town of Sweden honors 20-year highway department employee

The Sweden Town Board has named the pond at the Sweden Town Park on Redman Road, "Kepler's Pond" in honor of Daniel C. Kepler who celebrated 20 years of service to the Town on December 8.

Kepler has moved through the ranks of the highway department starting as a laborer, then truck driver, heavy equipment operator and in 2002, as a working foreman.

"It's a testimony to Dan's skills and work ethic that he has been promoted regularly throughout the terms of three highway superintendents," said Sweden Supervisor Nat O. Lester, III, at the pond dedication ceremony on December 9.

The Sweden highway crew has provided much of the labor during development of the town park. As foreman, Kepler has been instrumental in the installation of the soccer fields, sewer and water lines, road and parking lot improvements, and the pond. The two board chose the pond specifically to honor Kepler because it proved to be a difficult project that Kepler saw through, despite many obstacles.

"We've always been able to count on Dan to put in extra effort when needed. He always has a cheerful disposition and positive attitude," Lester said. "The town board believes it is an honor and a privilege to have Dan as part of our team."

More than 50 people attended the dedication ceremony - the entire highway department and the large extended Kepler family. Refreshments were served at the concession stand.

Kepler is standing in the center of the group shown in the accompanying photograph.

December 24, 2006