When you love your community and a life of service as much as Troy Schulze does, saying the word “retirement” seems difficult. But this coming Friday, August 30, he will do just that, for the last time.
Schulze has served the City of Lake Wales for 30 years. He retired from LWPD in May of 2021, but ultimately came back to continue to serve through a period of transition in the department.
Now that he’s retiring from LWPD for good, Schulze is making sure how important this community is to him. A post on social media this week conveys a message of gratitude:
“It has been a blessing and an honor to serve the City of Lake Wales for 30 years! I am thankful for every prayer you prayed for us, every word of encouragement you spoke over us, the relationships that we developed and the laughs that we have had! As most of you know I retired (at least I thought I had) from the Lake Wales Police Department in May 2021 and began a new career.
“In August 2023, I returned to the police department to assist with some transitions. We have accomplished our goals so now it is time for me to retire, again. This is my last week with the Lake Wales Police Department as a full time officer. The Lake Wales Police Department and the residents of Lake Wales hold a very special place in my heart!
“Lastly, as any first responder knows, we could not do what we do without the grace of God and a supportive family! I am thankful for God’s faithfulness and the amazing family He has given me!”
When I asked the outgoing deputy chief what message she would most likely to convey to the residents of Lake Wales, he had this response:
“To the community, thank you for everything! It has been an honor to serve you and my family has always felt your support!”
To celebrate his retirement and commitment to Lake Wales, a community social is planned for Saturday, September 14, 2024 from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM at New Hope Baptist Church, located at 113 W. Central Ave. in Lake Wales. Everyone in the community is welcome to drop by and share their best wishes. Light refreshments will be served.
No word yet on a replacement for Schulze; It seems that those will be tough shoes to fill.
