After more than 14 years of service to the City of Brownwood, Jo Ann Franke was honored with a surprise retirement party on Friday attended by friends, family and coworkers.
For many years, Franke served as the City of Brownwood’s Director of Human Resources and Civil Services. She stepped down from this position in December and was replaced by David Dalleh, serving as assistant director.
Franke was surprised by not only the party but also with the attendance of her family, daughter Charlyn and husband J.D. Doyle of Christoval; son Randy Bruchmiller and grandchildren Anna and Reid of Humble; mother Margaret Strube of Rowena, as well as her siblings and their spouses Marilyn and Alan Halfman, Al and Ann Strube, and Ricky Strube from the Ballinger area.
City Manager Bobby Rountree stated that over the years, he and other city staff have relied on Franke’s work and dependability.
“I have had several HR directors and Jo Ann is the best, she is the kind of person that when you ask her to do something, you know the information you get from her is correct. She is the one that stays up here late to make sure she got it all done correctly,” said Rountree. “She is just a genuine person, a little girl from Rowena, Texas, one that you know you can count on. I don’t think there is anything I could ask her that she wouldn’t say, ‘let’s getter done’. I know the staff appreciates her for the work she has done but also for the example she has set. I appreciate her very much.”
Rountree presented her with a customary clock engraved with a message of recognition and thanks. She also received several cards and gifts as well as a “BFD” t-shirt given to her by members of the Brownwood Fire Department.
“My city family is so very special to me, friends that I have had here for fifteen years. It’s been a good fifteen years. I have really enjoyed it,” said Franke. “We’ve had some fun times, some crazy times and some difficult times, but overall it’s been a good ride. It’s been a really good time, but I am looking forward to retirement.”
The City Council Chamber was packed and Franke was very touched by the attendance of everyone present. “I can’t tell you much I appreciate all of you being here,” said Franke.
Franke will formally retire on Wednesday and plans to spend more time with family, especially her grandchildren, and to “just enjoy retirement.”
Pictured above is Franke with City Manager Bobby Rountree. Below are more photos of the retirement party.
Franke is surprised by several family and friends who came from out of town to celebrate her retirement.
Franke’s family enjoys the party.
