By Sheriff Tim Wilz

It is with a heavy heart I announce the recent passing of K9 Nova, who was an honorable member of the Waupaca County Sheriff’s Office K9 Division. Late last week, we learned K9 Nova had a tumor, which had ruptured. After surgery, we learned K9 Nova would not survive.

K9 Nova joined the Waupaca County Sheriff’s Office in June 2018 through generous donations from the community.

Nova was a black lab and served the community for the last 5 years. Nova was trained in narcotic detection and tracking. Anyone who had the privilege of knowing Nova would say she had a loving, gentle personality. Nova loved anyone who would give her attention. Nova especially enjoyed visiting children in the schools.

Nova was originally partnered with Retired Detective Sergeant Jon Loken in June of 2018 until his promotion in 2019. In October of 2019, Nova was partnered with Deputy Graham Barden. The team worked side by side, day and night, endlessly for the last 3 years and 10 months. During the last 5 years of dedicated service, K9 Nova made numerous apprehensions, and drug busts.

Nova was loved unconditionally by Deputy Barden and his family. Nova will forever be in their hearts. She leaves behind a Legacy that will never be forgotten.

K9 Nova was a loving member of the Waupaca County Sheriff’s Office. Nova gave her best years to the protection of Waupaca County and has earned her eternal peace.