Dr. Mike Marshall Takes Extended Medical Leave
Honored for Years of Service

UDAF employees honored State Veterinarian Dr. Michael R. Marshall for his 23 years of service during a recent celebration at the Agriculture and Food Building. Dr. Marshall is taking an extended medical leave from his office.

Dr. Marshall was praised by Commissioner Leonard Blackham as a dedicated and skilled public servant who helped keep the state’s livestock industry strong and safe.

The department’s directors presented Dr. Marshall with a custom made quilt to show their appreciation for his service. The quilt was selected as a gift because Dr. Marshall likes quilts, but traditionally gave them away to family members after purchasing them at the department’s Christmas auction. “This quilt, said employee Terry Menlove, was one the doctor could keep for himself.”

Testimonials of their appreciation for Dr. Marshall’s contribution to the state livestock industry and agriculture were given by representatives from the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the Utah Veterinary Medicine Association, the Bureau of Land Management, and Brent Tanner of the Utah Cattlemen’s Association who spoke on behalf of Utah’s producer groups.

“I consider myself very fortunate to have worked in a profession that I enjoyed very much,” said Dr. Mike Marshall. “I enjoyed working with animals and with the people of our department, and I enjoyed facing the daily challenges that came with this position. I hope I am remembered as a veterinarian whose decisions were based on sound medicine, not on politics,” he added.

Dr. Marshall’s departure prompted Commissioner Blackham to appoint Brands Bureau Chief, Terry Menlove as the division director, and Assistant State Veterinarian, Dr. Earl Rogers as the Acting State Veterinarian.

Dr. Marshall’s medical leave was prompted by an autoimmune diseases process called sarcoidosis that is affecting his lungs. The condition is complicated by sugar diabetes.

Posted November 20, 2006