Meek a dedicated public servant

As Sedgwick County’s register of deeds since 1998, Bill Meek stood out for his steady professionalism in overseeing the county office that handles filings related to mortgages, deeds, oil and gas leases, tax liens and more.

Meek died of cancer Sunday at age 71. His life will be celebrated in a service at 10 a.m. Saturday at Pathway Church, 2001 N. Maize Road.

The nearly two decades during which Meek managed the Register of Deeds Office coincided with the digital information revolution, and he made changes aimed at improving technology and efficiency in the office while always making customer service the highest priority.

When the Goddard Republican last took the oath of office in 2013, he even thanked those who didn’t vote for him. “I still work for you,” Meek said, describing his office as “your office to come and visit.”

Meek was comfortable taking on an advocacy role as needed to influence county policy or state legislation. He was well-respected as a knowledgeable, good-humored team player by his fellow elected officials at Sedgwick County.

“He was a man of honor and honesty. He worked hard at his craft,” County Commissioner Tim Norton said during the recollections and condolences offered to open Wednesday’s commission meeting.

Meek will be remembered as a dedicated public servant who earned the community’s gratitude.

This story was originally published January 14, 2016 at 6:07 PM with the headline "Meek a dedicated public servant."