Fishing for rest, hunting for relaxation

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Marshall County’s first female game warden hangs up keys after 30 years

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Linda Powell has been a Marshall County Game Warden for almost 29 years. However, because of her paid time off, the department is rounding it off and she is getting credit for 30.

On August 23, Powell turned in her truck, hung up her binoculars and retired from the job she has loved for almost three decades. As if being at one job for almost 30 years was not accolades enough, Powell has another feather to put in her cap. She was the first female game warden for Marshall County.

Powell was told that because of her breaking the glass ceiling, other women have followed their dream to become a game warden.

“I was told I opened the door for females wanting to become a game warden,” Powell said. “We now have two other female game wardens.”

Powell said it was not an easy task as a female wanting to be a game warden in the late 80s. She said perseverance is what got her in the door, and the love of the job kept her fighting.

“I kept going back and trying again,” Powell said and, “the love of wildlife and wanting to protect it by enforcing wildlife laws” kept her going back.

Powell said she it will be difficult walking away from a job she has loved for so long. “It will be quite an adjustment not being around people answering questions related to hunting and fishing laws and poaching.”

Powell’s daughter, Karen Coleman said her mother has been a rock and wonderful role model for and her sister.

“My mother taught our family to never quit and never back down from striving to reach a goal, no matter how overwhelming the odds. She modeled integrity and perseverance in all she has done in her career for the State of Oklahoma.”

Coleman said her mother’s dedication was top notch. “As her children, my sister and I have watched as she often sacrificed time with her family to serve Marshall County, including holidays, weekends, and often missing events with her grandchildren.”

Powell said she had originally planned on going back to McCurtain County, but stayed because she has enjoyed working in Marshall County.

“It’s been a real pleasure to work in Marshall County. I really enjoyed the people. I will miss everyone and hope to see you around.”

“Thank you for letting me work for you,” Powell added.

Coleman said there will be a retirement party for Powell to celebrate her dedication and 30 years of service. It will be September 15 from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Marshall County Community Center on Enos Road.

“This is just a small way for us, as a community, and my family and I to show her how much she means to us all.”

Coleman invited anybody from the community to come by to wish Powell a wonderful retirement.