Beloved OPD Dispatcher Deena Clark Retires

After 32 years of service with the Olney Police Department, dispatcher Deena Clark retired to spend more time with grandchildren, she said at a Dec. 9 party in her honor at City Hall. Many people who got to know Mrs. Clark over the years stopped by her retirement party to express their love and appreciation. Her last day of work was Dec. 15.

Olney could always count on a calm, caring and professional voice during emergencies when calling 911 or the OPD. Police Chief Dan Birbeck expressed the love and appreciation felt by those who served with her and the community.

“For the Police Department, it is definitely a big loss,” he said. “Thirty-two years of service, knowledge of the city, the department and its people are definitely an asset to the department and losing that - the new dispatcher will have some big shoes to fill. She will be dearly missed. Along the way she’s made a lot of friends and acquaintances while with the police department. It’s personal because even though we’re not related to her, we are friends that became family. We care a lot about her and wish her well and hope that she enjoys retirement with their grandkids and her family. She’s definitely earned it.”