OLD ORCHARD BEACH — The town lost a loyal public servant and friend last week.

The Police Department announced that its former K-9, Gunther was “laid to rest” Monday due to a sudden medical issue.

Gunther retired in June after nine years of service. The German Shepherd lived with his handler, Detective Chris St. Pierre, since he was eight months old, and became part of the St. Pierre family. He continued to live with St. Pierre after retirement.

Gunther received several awards during his service with the Police Department, including a national award for his work tracking and apprehending a dangerous bank robber.

 “K-9 Gunther served many years with the Old Orchard Beach Police Department with distinction,” police officials wrote on the department’s Facebook page. “K-9 Gunther was highly regarded among many Southern Maine law enforcement agencies as he worked many successful drug identification cases, searches for suspects and missing persons throughout his career. K-9 Gunther will be missed by his handler Officer Christopher St. Pierre and his law enforcement family here at the police department.”

Gunther excelled at police work, and was also a great ambassador for the department. He was good with children, and was a popular fixture in the community.

Gunther was honored in August by the Town Council for his service to the community.

“Although the Police Department plans to get another K-9, there will never be another “Gunther” for OOB,” said Assistant Town Manager Louise Reid upon Gunther’s retirement.

Donations can be made in Gunther’s honor to Community Animal Watch, 1 Portland Ave., Old Orchard Beach, ME, 04064.

— Staff Writer Liz Gotthelf can be contacted at 282-1535, ext. 325 or egotthelf@journaltribune.com.