Tonn retiring from post office

After 24 years of working at the Thermopolis Post Office, Patti Tonn is bedding farewell.

Postmaster Susan Linko said Tonn started out as a carrier and later became a clerk. She started under Postmaster Rick Smiley, then Fred Crosby, before Linko took the position in 2009.

Tonn, Linko said, “is one of my greatest assets. She will be very missed.” She added Tonn is very focused on customer service, the customers love her and she knows people by name. Having been in charge of the post office boxes for so long, she also knows customers by number.

Linko recalled, in particular, a year when a customer didn’t have enough money to mail Christmas presents and Tonn paid the difference out of her own pocket. She also regularly helps people who are visually impaired or have issues writing. Though Tonn’s vacancy can’t be filled until she’s officially gone, Linko said Dawn Jones will likely take over the position.

Tonn’s first day was Sept. 18, 1993, and this Saturday, March 31, is her last. To mark the occasion, fellow postal worker will have a “customer appreciation day” on Friday, March 30. Tonn will be presented her retirement certificate from the district, and cake and juice will be available for customers. The public is encouraged to attend.