Walter Becker, the head of Carthage Area Hospital, is retiring, the hospital's board of directors said in a statement Wednesday.

The announcement followed a hospital board meeting Tuesday night.

One official with direct knowledge of the board meeting Tuesday said Becker was 'told to resign.'

A second source said Becker's tenure essentially ended with Tuesday night's meeting.

Becker said Wednesday  "I enjoyed the hospital very much. It was a wonderful place to work, and I wish them success."

Although Becker's retirement is official December 31, he is on vacation until then, meaning today was his last day at the hospital.

Becker referred questions from 7 News late Tuesday to the chairman of the hospital board. That man, Brian Scott, did not return our phone calls. Other board members contacted by 7 News either did not return our phone calls, or declined to comment.

Scott and hospital chief operating officer Rich Duvall are in charge of the facility until at least Tuesday, when the board will meet again, according to a spokeswoman for the hospital. 

Becker and the hospital were in the news last week when 7 News reported that an 'assisted living' facility the hospital is building hit a snag in its financing. The state subsequently agreed to loan the money the hospital needed.

Also at issue: the recent expansion of the hospital. Becker proposed a $13 million project, while studies indicated the hospital could handle no more than an $8 million expense.

Becker is widely credited with 'turning around' the hospital in the late 90s, when it had severe financial problems. However, the hospital has over the last several months suffered new financial problems, which Becker attributed to software used to bill patients and insurance companies.

Several management level employees have also resigned.

In its statement Wednesday, the board praised Becker.

"The enhancements made over the last 14 years under Mr. Becker's leadership created new jobs and helped fuel the local economy," the statement noted.

"The Board of Directors is thankful to Walter for his insight and dedication to building a system of care that supports and enhances the lives of people in the North Country. The Board of Directors is also grateful to Walter for his vision, hard work and dedication to the hospital and the loal community. His impact on the Carthage area will be felt long after his retirement."

Word of Becker's departure spread rapidly Tuesday into early Wednesday, with Facebook and Craig's List postings.