WEC warden dies same day as retirement

MCCOOK, Neb. -- The Nebraska Department of Correctional Services announced the passing a a 75-year-old woman who was a Work Ethic Camp (WEC) warden. 

NDCS said they are mourning the loss of Warden Pam Morello, who died on Feb. 2, 2023. 

It was said that she was known as "Mo" to most people. 

NDCS said that she started at WEC 21 years ago as a corporal and ended her career as the warden. 

Morello's retirement was yesterday, Feb. 2. 

"Warden Morello impacted countless lives with her straight-forward, no-nonsense approach of life," said Interim Director Diane Sabatka-Rine. "Our team members at WEC and throughout the agency will fondly remember her and her contributions."

NDCS said that Morello's passion for the work was evident in how she talked about and fought for what WEC needed. 

The press release went on to say she did everything with the camp in mind first, and how it would impact the incarcerated individuals, staff, and the community. 

"She had a wonderful spirit and always made people feel good about themselves and their interaction with her," read the release. "Her kind heart and incredible leadership will be missed by all."