A hall full of supporters and well-wishers showed up to pay tribute to retiring South Pasadena Community Services Director, Sheila Pautsch, at the city’s War Memorial building. Those attending included co-workers, community leaders and members of government, all who lauded her achievements while at the helm of the department.
The dinner event was hosted by Lucy Hakobian, Pautsch’s longtime assistant. Several speakers praised Pautsch’s tenure at the podium and awards were also presented during the program. The evening’s theme was the outdoors, since the honoree plans to do a lot of traveling during her retirement and is known for her love of the outdoors. Guests were served a catered dinner followed by baked goods that featured the evening’s theme, goodies that Sheila had made and baked herself.
Mayor Evelyn Zneimer spoke about Pautsch’s career with the city and later retiring South Pasadena Fire Chief, Paul Riddle, presented her with a plaque. She will finish her South Pasadena career with a “bang” as she will guide the city’s Fourth of July activities. Fellow soon-to-be retiree, Riddle, began his career with the fire deprtament in 1991 and was appointed as its chief in 2017. He is scheduled to retire in August.
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“My heart is overflowing with gratitude and love from the community and friends,” said Pautsch. “I was overwhelmed by all the comments. A typical retirement roast it was not! I truly loved working for the residents of South Pasadena who many I now call friends. I will never forget this night and the many people who helped me celebrate.”