‘Grateful to serve’

After 34 years of service in law enforcement in Waseca County, Sheriff Brad Milbrath has retired. Two celebrations for his retirement were held on Friday, Dec. 30: one at the Waseca County East Annex building from 2:30 to 4 p.m., and another one at the Mill from 5:30 to 8 p.m.

Milbrath was born and raised in southern Minnesota. Although he graduated from Mapleton school, he said that his grandparents had a farm in rural Janesville which he frequently visited. “I always had such a fun time out there,” he reminisced.

He fell in love with the area as soon as he graduated. He began his career at the Waseca County Sheriff Department in 1989, serving as the sheriff for the past 12 years.

In his 34 years of service, Milbrath has received many accolades ranging from an award from the National Sheriffs’ Institute for completing training in Colorado to receiving a plaque from the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension. He also was a part of the Minnesota Adopt-A-Highway program.

Many people came to the retirement party at the East Annex ranging from the county commissioners and city staff to officers from other local law enforcement agencies. Later on at the Mill, Milbrath was presented with a shadow box containing the US Flag, handcuffs, and various badges to commemorate his 12 years as the sheriff. Newly elected sheriff Jay Dulas and deputy Doug Gerdts also shared speeches at the evening celebration.

Although it was a bittersweet moment for him, Milbrath observed,  “It’s been a great ride. I have been very grateful to be able to serve the Waseca County community for 34 years. I love the community that we have here.”

When asked about his plans after retirement, he chuckled. “I’m honestly not sure yet. I’m going to take a few months to ride it out and then decide.”