Editor’s Note: Below is a February 1992 Bellefontaine Examiner article announcing former Bellefontaine Police Department Sgt. Robert “Bob” Holderman’s retirement. Mr. Holderman passed away Oct. 6, 2024, at age 84.
The article below and excerpts from others done by the newspaper during the peace officer’s 30-year career which began in 1962 are shared as tribute to his memory and in appreciation of his long and dedicated service to our community.
Mr. Holderman shared some of his concerns and regrets about “the job” in a 1984 Examiner profile article.
“The public doesn’t realize the strains this job can put on an officer and his family,” the lawman said.
“Shift work, overtime and just normal duties result in a lot of home time being lost, especially those hours with your kids while they’re growing up.”
“I don’t think Bellefontaine has more than its share of crime or criminals, but I don’t like watching kids who are problems grow up to be predictable situations, Holderman shared.
“We need to somehow change their environment and turn them around. We have to convince them to find someone to talk to — not wait until they are arrested. Any of us here would be glad to spend time talking to them.”
