A long-time public official for Perrysburg Township passed away August 22.

Shirley “Ginger” Haar served the residents of the township for nearly two decades as the fiscal officer, an elected position.

“Shirley served Perrysburg Township as the fiscal officer for over 18 years,” said Trustee Bob Mack who worked with her throughout those years.

“She was always looking out for what is best for the township. She made the part-time position her fulltime job and watched over our finances meticulously. She was a very dedicated public servant,” he added.

Trustee Gary Britten agreed. “I had the pleasure of working with Shirley both as a department head and a trustee. Shirley was very dedicated to the township, and served her constituents well.”

Mr. Britten continued, “It saddens us that her life was cut short so soon. We pray that Father will watch over her family.”

Trustee Joe Schaller shared his sympathy, “Our team at Perrysburg Township were all very saddened to hear the news of Shirley’s passing. She was a great asset as a fiscal officer and a friend, always taking a well thought out common sense approach.

“Shirley will be missed, not only by us, but by all the other organizations she was involved with. Condolences to her friends and family,” Mr. Schaller said.

County commissioner and former Trustee Craig LaHote added, “It was a pleasure serving Perrysburg Township for many years with Shirley. She always had the best interests of her constituents in mind and worked hard to ensure our township’s financials were in good shape and recorded properly, and when the trustees needed to make tough decisions, Shirley was a trusted resource we could count on for advice.”

Mrs. Haar retired from public service more than a year ago after being reelected by voters for the fifth time. Township residents placed their faith in the fiscal officer each election, even one in which she faced three challengers.

In addition to her role at the township, she was active in the community and served on the board of the friends of Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge where she was instrumental in getting an Ohio specialty license plate approved.

She also was an active auxiliary member at VFW Post 9963 in Walbridge where she initiated a change from balloon releases on Memorial Day to a release of birds rehabilitated at Nature’s Nursery. She enjoyed volunteering at events for the nursery.

Mrs. Haar was a friend to all and loved by many. She had trouble with saying “No” and was often helping someone. She will be greatly missed but we know she will be watching over us.

A celebration of life will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Friday, September 8, at VFW Post 9963, 109 Main Street, Walbridge.