End of an Era: Eugene Gwizdala Ends 24 Years County Commission Service
Popular Musician, Icon of Bay City's South End Decides to Retire
May 12, 2010
By: Dave Rogers
Eugene F. Gwizdala, retires after 24 years on Bay County Commission.
Don't look for any more "Gwizdala for Commissioner" signs in Bay City's South End.
County Commissioner Eugene F. Gwizdala, 80, a fixture on the board for 24 years, has decided to retire.
"Mr. Gwizdala has been a stalwart member of the board for many years and has made a significant contribution to the development of the community," said County Executive Thomas L. Hickner. "We will miss him on the county commission."
"Gwiz," as he is affectionately known, was popular in the community with his former band, "Gene Gwizdala and the Polka Spirits."
He was first elected in 1986 as the county commissioner from what is now the 8th District. A 1948 graduate of Central High School, he retired from the Jennison Hardware Company in 1990.
Mr. Gwizdala served as board chairman from 1997-1999. He also was chair of the technologies committee, headed the hotel-conference center project and the MBS International Airport Commission.
He was also a member of the Bay Arenac Community Mental Health Board, represented Bay County on the Michigan Works board, and has been serving as board vice-chair as well as a member of the Human Services, Ways and Means and Personnel/Judicial committees.
Mr. Gwizdala and his wife, Carole, have two sons and three daughters. They are members of St. Stanislaus Church.
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