Originally published on January 5, 2026 | Pope County Tribune | By Tim Douglass

Glacial Ridge Health System announced the upcoming retirement of Greg Meyers, a longtime leader of Glacial Ridge Ambulance and EMS services, marking the end of more than 35 years of service to Pope County and surrounding communities.

Meyers, who has been with the ambulance service since its early days, shared that he will begin transitioning into retirement starting Jan. 1. His responsibilities will be handed over to Keli Lembcke, who will assume day-to-day operations of Glacial Ridge EMS. Meyers will remain involved during the transition to help ensure continuity of care and leadership.

When Meyers began his career, the ambulance service was a small volunteer operation with about eight people and two ambulances, one of which was a former hearse used as a backup. Over time, the service evolved significantly as call volumes increased and volunteer staffing became more difficult to maintain. The organization transitioned to a full-time service, added additional ambulance units in Glenwood and Brooten, and expanded coverage to meet growing demand.

A major milestone occurred when Minnewaska Hospital closed, and its ambulance service ceased operations. Glacial Ridge Health System worked with the state to take ownership of that service and operate it under the Glacial Ridge Ambulance license. Continued growth led to the addition of more vehicles and staff.

Today, Glacial Ridge Ambulance operates six trucks, employs 40 staff members, and responds to more than 1,800 calls annually, compared to about 10 calls per month when Meyers first started. The service now covers all of Pope County and part of Stearns County.

In his message to staff, Meyers credited the dedicated ambulance team for the success of the service, noting that its growth and quality of care would not have been possible without them. He expressed strong support for Lembcke, encouraging staff to support her as she steps into the leadership role.

Glacial Ridge Health System CEO Kirk Stensrud praised Meyers’ dedication, service, and commitment, calling his career a significant chapter in the organization’s history. Glacial Ridge Health System recognized Meyers for his decades of service and thanked him for his lasting impact on emergency medical care in the region, it was stated.

Meyers also expressed gratitude to his colleagues and said leaving a job he loves will be difficult.