Kreidler retires from health department
The woman who guided Wichita Falls and Wichita County through the COVID-19 pandemic is stepping down.
Lou Kriedler is retiring after 21 years.Kreidler has been with the Wichita Falls-Wichita County Public Health District since 2001 when she was hired as the director of nurses. She was then promoted to assistant health director in 2004 and has been director of health for the past 16 years.
Besides guidance in the Covid-19 surge, Kreidler said another accomplishment she was pleased with was the passage of the city’s smoke-free ordinance in 2014.
“It was most rewarding knowing that you can make a difference in an entire community, not just oneindividual but the entire community,” she said.
City Manager Darron Leiker said in a press release: "This news is certainly bittersweet. While I'm happy for Lou's well deserved retirement, we will miss her steadfast leadership at the Health District immensely."
Leiker added: "I am very thankful for her dedication and service to this community, and wish her the very best."
Kreidler and her husband are looking forward to camping and spending time with grandchildren. Her last day will be Dec. 31.
Assistant Director of Health Amy Fagan will serve as interim health director until a permanentreplacement is named.
This article originally appeared on Wichita Falls Times Record News: Kreidler retires from Wichita Falls-Wichita County health department
