Chief Deputy Kevin Callahan's appointment as sheriff has been recommended to the Grundy County Board for approval.

Sheriff Terry Marketti passed away unexpectedly Dec. 14 and left a succession letter with the Grundy County Clerk's office, naming his Chief Deputy Callahan as interim sheriff until the county board made an appointment. Whomever is appointed then fills out the rest of Marketti's term, which is done in 2014.

Board Chairman Ron Severson notified the Grundy County Democratic and Republican central committees of the vacancy, as required by law. Marketti was a Democrat, so the appointed sheriff needs to be a Democrat, as well.