Boline retires from Gogebic County Victim Service Unit

BESSEMER - The Gogebic County Sheriff's Department announced Friday Marcella Boline has retired as coordinator for the Gogebic County Sheriff's Victim Service Unit.

Boline began working for the unit as its coordinator 12 years ago. She said she was inspired to join the unit after being in a rollover accident in Canada. Shortly after the accident, Boline said the service unit there helped her get to a bus station and back home. Then, she said to "pay things forward," she began training to start the unit.

Boline said she had a lot to learn because "every case was different." But she stayed with it because she wanted to help out.

"As a volunteer, I was glad to do it and help other people," Boline said.

Boline said people usually haven't heard of the VSU unless they need it. She said the VSU is a group of people on call 24 hours a day to help support the sheriff's department. They will respond to any situation, Boline said.

They are available to local law enforcement, ambulance services and fire departments.

"We free up the officers so they can do their jobs. We take care of the family, make phone calls, give rides and help them grieve," she said.

As the coordinator, Boline said was in charge of scheduling monthly meetings and educational sessions.

But after 12 years of service, Boline said she told sheriff Peter Matonich she was retiring this year.

"It's time to give it up to get new blood in," she said.

Matonich said Boline did a "wonderful job" as coordinator and hopes she has a happy retirement.

Replacing her will be Jenni Kallas. As the new coordinator, Kallas said she "has big shoes to fill" and wants to help get the word of the VSU out to increase awareness.

Boline said she doesn't have plans for her retirement yet.

"My time is going to be my own," she said.