In this file photo, Dick Kemper, Kosciusko County Surveyor, is shown doing field work near Lake Papakeechie as part of locating a section corner marker. Kemper announced he is resigning as county surveyor effective Aug. 14.

WARSAW — After serving 26 years as the Kosciusko County Surveyor and another 17 years working for the previous county surveyor, Dick Kemper has chosen to submit his resignation effective Aug. 14.

Kemper, who made the announcement Friday, July 17, cited personal reasons for his resignation. “I just feel it is time to step back from being a public servant,” he said.

He also released the following statement: “I have been privileged and honored to serve as Kosciusko County Surveyor. It has been a huge, rewarding part of my life.

“A good public servant should be totally focused and dedicated to the office they hold. Any effort that falls short is a disservice to county government and county residents.

“Circumstances in my life are compelling me to step back from public office, turn the page, and begin a new chapter. For that reason I believe my level of effort and dedication in the remainder of my term would not meet my expectations. Therefore, it is with some sadness that I have announced my intention to resign my position as county surveyor.

“I owe a debt of gratitude and thanks to so many. Thank you Republican Party for your support through the years. To the many landowners and farmers who have welcomed me to walk their land, thank you, and so many times that has been the highlight of my day. To the county commissioners, county council, county drainage board, area planning commission and staff, and everyone at county highway, thank you for your always respectful consideration and help. Thank you to all of my fellow department heads, office holders and county employees who truly take pride in serving the public every day. I’m proud to call you all friends.

“Heartfelt thanks to Michael, Sue, Patti and Mark, my friends and co-workers. You guys have done so much for me and the office. Thanks to my sweet Deb and above all thanks be to God for the opportunity. It’s been a great ride!”

He was first elected as county surveyor in 1989. Prior to 1989, he had worked in various positions in the county surveyor’s office dating back to 1972 for Charles Brower, who served as county surveyor from 1960 to 1989.

Kemper’s term will expire January 2016. A caucus of Republican precinct committeemen will vote on a successor to Kemper within 30 days after Aug. 14, and the successor will then fill out the remainder of the term. Mike Kissinger, assistant county surveyor, will fulfill Kemper’s duties in the interim.

Kemper also holds a county commissioners appointed seat on the Kosciusko County Area Planning Commission. His last APC meeting will be Wednesday, Aug. 5.