Although Ernie Lentz is a familiar name in Tate County, residents will soon get the chance to know him as coroner of Tate County.
Lentz has served as deputy coroner in Tate County for 25 years under Coroner Pat Kizziah. Kizziah announced last year he would retire from the office, and Lentz decided to seek election for the position.
“When Pat decided to retire, I decided to run for the position to continue the level of service that our citizens have become accustomed to receiving,” said Lentz.
Lentz is running for the position unopposed in the upcoming November elections.
Although, Lentz was born in Maryland, he was raised in the Arkabutla community. A graduate of Coldwater High School, Lentz then entered the U.S. Air Force and served almost 10 years as a Security Policeman.
While in the Air Force, Lentz attended Park University in Missouri to earn a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice. He then earned his Masters of Public Affairs in Public Administration. After college, Lentz worked as a Park Ranger with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers until his retirement.
Lentz is married to the former Marcella (Gidget) Seltzer, 54, of Laguna Beach, CA. The couple have two children, Rachel Lentz Philips, 34, and Brian Lentz, 31. Lentz also has three grandchildren.
Lentz said his entire family supports his decision to seek election.
“My family is very supportive of me and my desire to serve my fellow citizens as Coroner of Tate County,” said Lentz. Lentz has been an active member of the Tate County community during his 25 years serving as Deputy Coroner and says he will continue to do so.
