SUPERIOR – The Superior Senior Citizen Center will lose a member of its family soon as their cook leaves in pursuit of other goals.

Leslie Heppe decided to leave the senior center in order to get a change of pace. While she had only been the center’s cook for two years, Heppe had been in the food service industry for 30 years. She also wanted more time to devote to her own business and has no plans to continue in food service.

“[30 years] is enough,” said Heppe. “It’s time to do something else.”

Heppe began her career in food service at 12 years old when she peeled potatoes for a restaurant. As time went on, she moved up the ranks from dishwasher to food preparation to waiting tables. The experiences helped prepare her for work at the senior center.

Heppe found her start as the center’s cook largely by accident. She recalled she started to go to the center’s evening meals when the current cook was about to leave. The cook was disabled and held on until a replacement could be found. Heppe offered to take over and help out until someone permanent could be found. Two years later, she was still working for the center.

Heppe said cooking for the senior center was fun and she enjoyed it. Her friendships with the people there made the job even more enjoyable. She had also enjoyed the opportunity to watch the center grow and fulfill its purpose within the community.

“It’s been fun to watch…neighbors get together who probably wouldn’t see each other, otherwise,” said Heppe. “Which is the whole idea of senior citizens, for seniors to socialize.”

According to Hyrel Walsh, vice president of the center, the board is devastated to lose Heppe. However, they also realize they cannot keep her from the decision and wish her all the best. Walsh said it has been great to have her on as cook and it had been a good experience from the start.

“We were thrilled to death [to have her],” said Walsh. “Everyone knew her. She’s a good cook, so we didn’t have to cook.”

Heppe was also good for the center overall. According to Walsh, many people came back to the center, after extended absences, while she was cook. Heppe and her husband brought more warmth to the center, through their work.

The senior center has begun to accept applications for a new cook. While a few people have already expressed interest in the position, no definite plans have been made. Heppe said she has no say in who will be hired and the decision fell to the senior center’s board.

According to Walsh, the main qualification the center is looking for is a good cook. However, she added it was always good for the person to have a pleasant personality. Heppe felt it was important to keep the pleasant atmosphere so people would feel free to stay and socialize.

Heppe plans to stay on as cook until a new person for the position is found. However, she said her official last day is the final meal in May.

“Then they’re going to have to have a potluck, if they haven’t hired a cook,” said Heppe.

The board would like to hire someone immediately and will accept applications until a new cook is hired.