County Clerk Mike Jasper was found dead at his farm in Gourley Township over the weekend with a self-inflicted gunshot.
By Beth Jones
Monday, October 05, 2009 at 7:26 p.m.
Read more: Local, Politics
MENOMINEE -- Menominee County continues to mourn the tragic death of their County Clerk, Mike Jasper. Jasper was found dead at his farm in Gourley Township over the weekend with a self-inflicted gunshot.
This personal tragedy, however, has also spurred some political controversy. Jasper's death came just a day after he fired long-time Chief Deputy Register of Deeds, Kathy Betters. Betters claims she was not given a reason for the termination. But she believes that County Commissioner Gary Eichhorn told Jasper to force her to quit. Betters says Jasper didn't want to fire her and feels what happened Friday may have been the last straw for Jasper.
An unusual press release from Menominee County Sheriff Kenny Marks paints a similar picture.
The tragic death of Jasper came sudden and unexpected to those who knew him.
"I can't say we expected this," explained coworker and Chief Deputy Count Clerk, Carol Johnson. "I don't know how anybody can expect this. It's pretty hard to function without the leadership that we were so used to."
Sheriff Kenny Marks, in an unusual and highly personal press release Sunday, also expressed remorse stating, "Mike was a great human being! Many people loved and admired him. His death will not be in vain, so help me God."
Without making a direct accusation about Jasper's death, Sheriff Marks went on to charge County Commissioner Gary Eichhorn with making unfair threats to Marks during the county budget process.
He ended with this surprising statement... "I publically request the immediate resignation of County Commissioner and Board Chairman Gary Eichhorn. The stress and vindictiveness imposed by this board must be stopped immediately. Innocent people are being destroyed."
Although Eichhorn declined an on-camera interview, he told TV6 that he feels the allegations are inappropriate. He wants to allow the county and friends and family of Jasper, time to heal.
Those who knew Jasper say we shouldn't be talking about politics. We should take time to remember Mike Jasper for what he was: a good man.
"He was very kind, very thoughtful," Johnson said. "He had a wonderful sense of humor. He added levity to this office. We really enjoyed him. There was nothing not to like about Mike."
Eichhorn did say he may comment on the allegations within a few weeks. Services for Jasper will be held in Carney on Wednesday.
