WILTON – On Jan. 22, Michael Tatro, Public Works Director for the past two years, died in an automobile accident in Greenfield. He was a resident of Antrim and on his way to work.

In a statement on the town website, Town Administrator Nick Germain said, “Michael consistently demonstrated great professionalism and care in his work that more than earned him the title “Director of Public Works,” entrusted to him by the Select Board. He cared greatly for his employees, colleagues, and the public he served, and executed his duties with a conscientious pride that could be measured against any other person that filled the role or similar roles in Wilton.”

He added, “Wilton’s public officials and employees extend their sincere condolences to Michael’s family and posthumously thank him for his service as manager, leader, worker, colleague and friend.”

At the Select Board meeting on Monday, a moment of silence was observed. Chairman Matt Fish noted his liking for Wilton, even declining to leave for a higher paying job because of the support he received from officials.

Deb Mortvedt, a member of the committee studying a new town garage, called him “a pleasure to work with,” and suggested the Public Works Department develop “some kind of memorial to him.”

The Select Board agreed.

She said a card is in the town office for residents to sign for his family

Resident Tom Schultz said the best memorial would be “to move forward with a new garage and have something there.”

In an interview when he was hired, Tatro said he had served as Road Agent in Antrim for 11 years, and before joining that department had worked as a long-haul trucker including work at Alaska’s Prudhoe Bay. When not working on roads, he enjoyed hiking, fishing, and kayaking.

The position has been posted on the town website and other places.

A member of the department will be named interim director.

On Monday, no services were announced.