From left are Kristine Gardner, May Bowman, Randy Bowman, Eleanore Davis, Gene Davis and Debora Shumpert. Randy stands next to his family while holding a shadow box filled with memorabilia.

WINONA LAKE — Winona Lake Reserve officer Randy Bowman is retiring after serving Kosciusko County for 30 years.

The Winona Lake Police Department honored Bowman’s years of service with a retirement reception held at the Winona Lake Town Hall Wednesday, May 24.

Bowman began volunteering as a reserve officer for the Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Department 30 years ago. His service began after he returned home from the military.

He went on to transfer from KCSD to the Pierceton Police Department. From there, he has spent the last twelve years at the Winona Lake Police Department.

“I found my home at Winona Lake,” said Bowman.

His retirement from being a reserve officer has been propelled by his growing business. Bowman said his business R and B Sales Emergency Lighting is continually getting busier, leaving him with less time to volunteer at the police department. He felt he didn’t have enough time to commit to the department.

“I like to give one hundred percent,” said Bowman.

Bowman said he has loved his decades of service as a reserve officer for many reasons. Whether it be the camaraderie with other officers or helping people, Bowman is thankful for the years he has spent serving.

“I’ll miss it,” said Bowman.