March 28, 2020 – West Bend, WI – Friends and coworkers at the Washington County Courthouse helped Judge Andrew Gonring celebrate his retirement in style with a retirement parade.
Judge Gonring wrapped up a 20-year career on the bench. He announced his retirement in November 2019.
The fleet of vehicles took off from Park Avenue at 12:05 p.m. and headed north past Gonring’s red brick home. The caravan sported lights, US flags, and decorative lights as many honked their horn and shouted well wishes from behind the wheel.
Gonring responded with a waive and smile. “Thank you,” he shouted as he watched the parade from his front porch step.
Gonring was first elected April 4, 2000. He ran unopposed and replaced retiring Judge Leo F. Schlaefer.
Gonring won re-election in 2006, 2012 and April 2018. His current six-year term would expire in 2024.
“This was very nice,” said Gonring. “They planned a big retirement party tonight but that had to be canceled. This was very nice… unexpected… but nice.”