Mike Ragan, chairman of the Kosciusko County Republican Committee, congratulates Dan Thystrup on his election to the North Webster Town Council.

NORTH WEBSTER — Dan Thystrup was elected to the North Webster Town Council Friday evening following a caucus of town precinct committeemen. Thystrup won the election over opponent Eldonna Warren following two votes. The first vote by Larry Kinsey and Mark Grady, the only two eligible precinct committeemen, was a tie. Following a second vote, Thystrup was declared the winner.

Thystrup, 61, a town resident for the past 30 years and local businessman, stated it is a big responsibility but “I’m glad, I love this community now I can give back. Think about it, we came here 30 years ago, as nobodies from nowhere. and we have more friends than we have time for. Everybody is really nice to us, and we love it here.”

Both Warren and Thystrup were given an opportunity to speak before the members of the caucus.

Warren, who grew up at Clayton Garden Center and moved into town after marrying Randy Warren 41 years ago, stated she didn’t have any agenda on what she wants to see happen. “I love this little town and I see good things and I see things that haven’t been so good. I just want to be available to do whatever is needed I can help with.” Warren stated it bothers her to see some of the run down properties and businesses and wants to see those area cleaned up.

Garet Becker, who introduced Thystrup, took a moment to comment on the reason why the caucus was called. “I am saddened why we are here. Jon Sroufe was a friend of mine and was a pillar to this community,” Becker stated adding. “I’m overjoyed this community has done what I expected it to do … people step up, that’s what makes this community a wonderful place to be.”

In introducing Thystrup, Becker indicated, like Sroufe, Thystrup is a pillar of the community, as are the Warrens. “It’s people like this who we need in this community.” Becker stated Thystrup and his wife “came to this town, settling here to make a better life for them and their family. They not only have done that for themselves but for the community,” offering employment to people through their businesses.

Becker stated Thystrup is fiscally responsible, knows how to run a business and can bring that to the community as well. “He also brings a state and global perspective,” referring to their business having global customers and originally being from Denmark. Thystrup’s participation in the community was also noted by Becker. He stated Thystrup was involved locally in the lives of children through Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts and the Lions Club, being president “umpteen” times. He noted he has been the man behind the scenes in the Memorial Day and Mermaid Festival parades. “He serves with a heart for the community and children and a passion.”

During Thystrup’s presentation to the caucus, he noted his business with customers around the world, and the construction of a new post office building for the town. “I thought it is good for all of us, hopefully it still is. I’ve been used to running a business, always making sure to get the most out of the dollars we have available … what I do every day…”

Dan Thystrup, right, is all smiles while he signs official documents after being elected to the North Webster Town Council. Kosciusko Republican Secretary Austin Rovenstine is shown on the left.