Stone Hearth Estates
110 20th Street, Suite 400, Gothenburg, NE
For over a month we have been creating an 'Inspirational' National Assisted Living Week for our staff, residents, families and community. We have interviewed three generations. Our question, "Who has inspired you?" has enlisted numerous, sometimes surprising responses. To see how we make a difference to the people around us, especially in the smallest of ways, is incredibly heartwarming. We hope that you will take a few minutes to read what we have learned and join us as we celebrate our daily influence, "Inspiring Generations".
2024 National Assisted Living Week
Established in 1995, National Assisted Living Week provides a unique opportunity for residents, their loved ones, staff, volunteers, and the surrounding communities to recognize the role of assisted living in caring for America’s seniors. The annual observance encourages assisted living communities around the country to offer a variety of events and activities to celebrate the individuals they serve, as well as to help educate members of the public about this distinctive aspect of long term care.
Who has inspired you? - Employee Edition
Check out our employees and the people that have inspired them!
Employee gallery 1
click images to enlarge
Employee gallery 2
click images to enlarge
Who has inspired you? - Family Edition
Check out our Stone Hearth families and the people that have inspired them!
Dean Dowson
My dad, Dean Dowson, has been an inspiration to me in countless ways. I wish people at Stone Hearth knew the man I’ve known my whole life. He has always been the smartest man I’ve ever known. Dad is the type of person who is the definition of a life-long learner and knows something about absolutely everything. He has definitely inspired me to always have a curiosity about people, places and life in general. Dad inspires me in unexpected ways as well. I want to be the kind of grandparent to my grandchildren that he is to my children. Their relationship has always been so close and I hope I can replicate that. Inspiration can come in many forms and my dad is definitely an inspiration to everyone in my family. I love you Dad! -Beth Cullan, Dean’s Daughter
Genevieve Collier
The inspirations that we learned from mom: •She inspired us to love the outdoors and work hard. •She inspired us to love horses, cattle, dog-but cats… not so much! (Barn cats only!) •She inspired us to be fearless. Snakes, skunks, mama cows didn’t bother her. But… we learned by watching her to be a little fearful of each! •She inspired us to at least finish High School. College was optional but get that High Schol Diploma! That was a priority in her book! •She inspired us to be friendly, kind and to visit with anyone! -Brenda and Judy, Genevieve’s daughters
Betty Vogt
Mom has always been a hard-working person and very much involved in everything her family was doing. She has always been quite a prankster as well. When I as at home my bedroom was upstairs, those older homes always had steep staircases, like the one in our home, so I had to go up those stairs and reach around a corner to turn on the light. She often put a mop right there so when I reached around to turn on the light that mophead was there. She thought it was pretty funny, among other things she did. Our mother is a wonderful person! -Betty’s son, Don Malcom
Jackie & Linda Schick
Family. These women have ALL outlived their men! We take care of ourselves and each other. AND, we are very thankful to have a family home at Stone Hearth. -Jackie & Linda’s cousin, Sheryl These 2 gems have been my favorite playmates since my earliest memories. Their antics and pure hearts inspire me to always stay young at heart and look for the good in everyone - Jackie & Linda’s cousin, Marcia
Shirley Booth
My mom has been a constant source of inspiration throughout my life. She dedicated herself as a stay-at-home mom, tirelessly cooking and cleaning for our family of six, while also providing childcare for other families in the community. She always planned the most amazing birthday parties for us – they were the best and something I looked forward to every year. She and dad were great at planning family camping trips and making holiday traditions special that built some of our greatest memories together. Even after raising us, she continued to work parttime, never shying away from hard work. Here fifty-plus years of marriage to my dad is a testament to her strength and commitment, and I aspire to embody the same perseverance and love in everything I do. Thanks for being an amazing momma. -Shirley’s daughter, Susie My mom has been a constant source of inspiration throughout my life. She and my dad always provided unwavering support to us kids, making sure we knew they were there whenever we needed help. My mom’s example of hard work, carried out without a single complaint, has deeply influenced my approach to challenges. Moreover, the way my parents made a point of visiting us after the birth of our children showed me the importance of family and being there for one another during life’s most significant moments. Her love, dedication, and strength continue to inspire me every day. -Shirley’s son, David My grandma has always been someone special to me. We’ve had so much fun playing marbles together – it’s our thing. She plays so sweet and nice... until she takes all my marble off and sends them back home then she can trash talk with the best of them! Visiting her in Nebraska has always been a blast. I have great memories of going to the creamery in Scottsbluff with grandma on one of our visits. It’s so different from New Jersey, and I love the time we spend together out there. She always makes our time together feel special, and I’m lucky to have her as my grandma. Love you Grandma! -Shirley’s grandson, Keifer
Arlene Strong
Mom taught me to be responsible, pay attention to details, set a good example for other, (take care of your sisters) and “remember your manners”. The best gift I am grateful for was she taught us at a very young age to pray. We prayed at each meal and said our bedtime prayers. What an amazing habit to teach your children Mom. I thank God for you! -Love Ter Arlene’s daughter, Terri Nordin Mom has always been my inspiration. Her and dad were the best team as parents. They were always fair with all four of us girls. She taught me how important that was. She gave her love unconditionally. I couldn’t have asked for a more loving and wonderful mom. During the eight years she lived in Lincoln we had more fun tighter, and as an adult, I learned to appreciate her even more. I LOVE YOU MOM!!! -Arlene’s daughter, Barb Debus What inspires me is that they always taught us girls that you don’t have to have the fanciest of things to be rich. It’s family and the love and time you spend with them to be the wealthiest of folks. Plus, we always had fun! -Arlene’s daughter, Kathy "Our Grandma is such a beautiful, kind, and inspiring person. Her spirit to travel to see new places has inspired Matthew to do the same, even going to Russia. We loved seeing the tulips with her in "Little Holland" (Pella, Iowa) last year. Her hospitality and welcoming nature made Lisa feel like part of the family instantly. She is easy to talk to and we love chatting with her and catching up. She is also very gracious and giving and laughs at all our silly jokes. We love you, Grandma Strong. -Arlene’s grandson and wife, Matthew & Lisa"
Elaine Finke
Growing up, I spent countless hours at my grandparents’ house, a place where time seemed to slow down, the cookie jar was always full and there was a good selection of pop in the fridge in the basement, Grandma was always there for me when I needed a ride to baseball, a school event, or even home when my mom couldn’t find me because I was out riding my bike all over town with my friends. I always enjoyed helping grandpa mow the lawn in the summers. That was partly because grandma would make him pay me for helping out. One of my fondest memories would be when I went over there while she was having bridge club. I would come in the front door and just yell, “Hi grandma, I’ll be in the basement”. And then one of the ladies would always yell back to me, “which grandma? We are all grandmas!” They would then laugh and laugh. When I was either at their house for a few hours, or staying for a couple days she always made me feel welcome. She taught me the importance of being on time, and to always be respectful of other people. -Elain’s grandson, Anthony Finke Great Grandma keeps us all in line. What gma says… goes, but its fun to laugh with her! -Mary Finke, Daughter-in-law Glenn came to appreciate from a young age, to value home cooked meals. And I have always said that she was the best cook I know. Many of her recipes are family favorites. -Elaine's Son & Daughter-in-law, Glen & Sue Finke
Gloria Ruppert
This time of the year reminds me of what a wonderful woman my mother is, as I work in the garden picking vegetable to take inside for processing I am reminded of the summers that we had as children when she taught each one of us kids how to can all of the vegetables and fruits from the garden so we had food for later in he year. This is a great memory that I will always cherish as well as time that I have spent with my children teaching them. I will always be grateful for the knowledge she has given me. -Gloria’s Daughter, Coleen Ragland Mom has taught me how to be patient and work hard for what you want and to appreciate what you have. -Gloria’s Daughter, Doreen Pedersen Mom has taught me how to be the rock! Strong and resilient. AND that there’s no such thing as too many flowers! -Gloria’s Daughter, Melanie Boon My Grandma has always taught me to never lower my standards when it come to men in my life. If they love you, they will not want you to change. Thank you Grandma, I will cherish this advice forever. -Gloria’s Granddaughter, Kaitlyn My mom has always enjoyed visits from her family. She inspires me to always keep my heart and home open to these visits forever. -Gloria’s Daughter, Jadeen Kucera
Bert Chatfield
Our dad worked hard his whole life to provide for his family and make sure we all had what we needed. He never wanted me to have a job when I was a child; he said I’d have to work the rest of my life, and he wanted me to just be a kid. He also treated us girls as ladies and would never allow us to mow the lawn as it was too dangerous, and it was not a job for girls. 😊 He made sure we always had all the ice cream we wanted! He was a wonderful father, and I love him to the moon! -Albert’s Daughter, Ruthie Ostergard
Harry Brown
Growing up I was always inspired by dad’s work ethic and his desire to make life easier for his kids. Wanting things to be easier than he himself experienced it. His willingness to help others has not gone unnoticed even today. I’m so proud to be able to call him my dad! What a great legacy he has started. -Bryon Brown, Harry’s son My dad always led by example because he is a man of few words. It’s wise to nap when the baby naps. Giving hugs to those you care about and appreciate are mandatory. It’s good for both people! I remember when I was early elementary age, probably 5-7 years old, I would climb up on my dad’s lap when he got home form work. We would sit in his big recliner and I would show him by graded papers from school. He always made me feel so special and proud of myself for the smiley faces or grades written in red at the top of the papers from my teachers. He always asked about by day, who I played with at recess, and if I had followed the rules and minded my teachers. Oh what I would give for a picture of us sitting in that big recliner talking and sharing stories. I grew up and went on to be an elementary teacher. I credit my dad for making me feel special and emphasizing the importance of education. He instilled in me the joy of learning and the importance of always trying my best. Thank you, dad, for sharing your time and your lap with me! I love you! -Harry’s daughter, Peggy
Norma Erikson
As a child, Mom made tiny Barbie clothes, including set-in sleeves. When I took sewing in 4-H, she encouraged me throughout my attempts, although she had to rip out my mistakes. I may not have become an expert seamstress, but she inspired me to continue to sew and still supports my efforts. -Norma’s daughter, Lori Erikson When I was a child, I had a exam every week. On Thursday nights before bed, Mom helped me prepare for the spelling test. From crayon drawings to the honor roll, Mom supported me through all my academic endeavors. -Norma’s son, Bruce Erikson
Maxine Isackson
Mom has always been there for us, making sure our special occasions are always special. She has inspired us to carry on her legacy. -Maxine’s son & daughter-in-law, Randy & Dee Isackson My best friend! -Maxine's son, Scott
Marie Reickert
Mom is great connector in our family. She inspires me to put family first, to especially be there when we NEED each other, and to otherwise stand strong as a fiercely independent woman. -Marie’s daughter, Sheryl This woman amazes me with her consistently sweet and pleasant demeanor. Her resiliency, compassion, and the way she maintains her wit and good nature and simply smiles through life’s adversities is such an inspiration to many, especially me - Marie’s daughter, Marcia
Jean Pramberg
My Mom is such an inspiration to me. I had a wonderful childhood, and our home was such a happy place to grow up. After I had kids of my own, I realized that such a happy place doesn’t just happen but takes an exceptional person to continually sacrifice for her family, and that’s what she did. I do know that we as kids had everything that we needed, and she sacrificed in not getting things for herself to make that happen. She sewed matching dresses for me and my sister, had cinnamon rolls baking when we came home form school, and did it all with love. I only hope that I have continued that legacy that she gave me and passed it on to my kids and grandkids. I love you Mom! -Jean’s Daughter, Sue Ernst
Roger Pramberg
I loved being out with my Dad on the farm and “helping” him in whatever eh was doing. I don’t think I was ever any help for him, but I loved to be with him. The first thing I would ask my Mom when she picked me up from school was – “what was Dad doing?” It could be riding in the tractor, checking cows, delivering salt to the pastures or fixing fence, it didn’t matter what, as long as I was with my Dad. I do remember trying my hardest to keep up with him. My little legs would have to take 3 to 4 steps to his one, but I was right beside my Dad! He could do anything in my eyes. He could solve every problem that we had and could fix anything, even if it was with baling wire or duct tape. I love you Dad! -Sue Ernst, Roger’s Daughter
Jean & Roger Pramberg
God blessed me with very special parents. My siblings and I were raised on the farm where we learned that hard work and fun were equally important. One day you were out moving irrigation pipe, but later Dad may be giving you a ride in the bucket on the tractor and then dumping you out in the haystack. I have so many great memories of the family going out to check on baby calves or just looking at the corn. I’m still not sure what we were looking at but I’m sure it looked good!! Mom also taught us the importance of family. Holidays and meals with everyone were special times. Cooking together, making Christmas candy, freezing corn – everything was more fun when we were all together. She even smiled when we had a few whipped cream fights in the kitchen. But above all, Mom and Dad taught us that God came first. They both served in the church and made sure their family was there. They were great examples of Proverbs 3:6-7. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him and he will make your paths straight.” Thank you, Mom and Dad for the example you have been to your children, your grandchildren and your great grandchildren and for loving us so well. We love you! -Roger and Jean’s daughter, Sandi
Willard & Laura Keiser
My parents have inspired me throughout my life by showing support in whatever we chose to do. They have always told me to be who you are and do what you love, not what other people want you to do and I have tried to pass that on to my girls and grandchild. Always follow your heart and remember the Golden Rule, treat other like you want to be treated. Thank you to my parents for all your support and love, and for giving us the courage to be who we are and stay strong in our beliefs. We love you! -Willard & Laura's daughter, Pam
Raymond Pellinger
Dad has inspired us through sharing his loving enthusiasm and dedication to country living. We irrigated three sets of cornfields with dad on the ranch north of Paxton twice daily for years. Dad taught us how to drive a stick shift pickup and we laughed frequently! Dad, thank you for the memories, we love you! -Raymond’s daughter, Gwen & Bernadette
Bobbie Smith
My 101-year-old father’s simple yet profound advice to “not step in the shit if it is steaming” has always stayed with me. It’s a reminder to avoid unnecessary trouble and choose my battles wisely, a lesson in both practicality and wisdom that continues to guide me every day. -Bobbie’s son and daughter-in-law, Robbi & Shelley
Becki Johnson
"Some things my Mom, or 'Grandma Becki', as her grandkids know her, inspired in me was to keep an eye out for those in need, show love to everyone you meet, and always enjoy the simple things in life, Her grandkids especially remember enjoying those simple things, such as a swing at a park, visiting an interesting museum, or just slowing down and enjoying a picnic or a nice cold ice cream sundae. Oh, and I especially learned that it's ok to be silly once in a while too! We love you, Grandma Becki!“ -Becki’s son, Andrew & Family
Jeanne Max
I admire my mother-in-law as an example of enduring love and commitment. Her unwavering devotion to her late husband, whom she was married to for 63 years, and her deep love for our family are truly inspiring. -Jeanne's daughter-in-law, Jill Max My mom's constant desire to help others and stay busy reflects her generous spirit and unwavering energy. She shows me the value of kindness and the importance of staying engaged in life. -Jeanne's Son, Steve Max My grandma's tireless work ethic and commitment to staying active are truly inspiring. She reminds me daily of the strength that comes from dedication and perseverance. -Jeanne's granddaughter, Jade Max I always remember grandma being supportive. Being at all our games was the big one. But also, she was up early making everyone a huge breakfast before deer hunting. Could always rely on her good baking and toaster strudels. Also being resilient through her cancer bout and grandpa's passing. Two things most people can't barely do one of. -Jeanne's grandson, Conner Max
Byron Daly
My dad has inspired me with his good work habits. He taught me how to ride, rope, weld and fish along with many other things. Plus, we must have the same taste in shirts!!! -Byron's son, Dan
Billie Beall
My mom has always been the caretaker of our family and we’ve been inspired to take care of people and nurture people through her. She was the one that always provided and helped everyone. -Billie’s son, Lenny
Carolyn Scofield
My mom has inspired me in so many ways throughout my life. I would say "Never be afraid to try new experiences", is something she always believed in. She wanted to can a rocking chair so she purchased the materials and taught herself how to can wicker chairs. I have the first chair she caned and this will always be very special to me. She created beautiful porcelain dolls, giving me many memories and keepsakes to share with generations. Mom continues to always be willing to step out of her comfort zone and try new things. Love you mom! -Carolyn's daughter, Connie
Gene Ward
Gene was always a hard worker and taught us the value of hard work! -Gene's son and daughter-in-law, Luke and Stacy
Judy Hosick
My mom is not only my mother, but also my friend! By watching her throughout her life, she inspires me to be loving and content. -Judy’s daughter, Kelli
Debbie Spencer
Debbie continues to inspire us. She always has a smile and a hug for everyone. She has continued to show the love of Jesus that is in her heart to all she meets. -Debbie's husband, Chris
Joan Richardson
My mom is a woman I’m proud to call “mom”. She’s always looking out for us and keeping the family connected. Love you mom! -Joan’s daughter, Sue
Gale Jensen
My dad is a man of few words, but often, actions speak louder than words. My dad exemplified the virtues of hard work and perseverance in all he did. He showed that success is achieved through dedication, resilience, and a strong work ethic. His tireless efforts have always inspired me to give my best in all endeavors and to never give up, even in the face of daunting challenges. The life lessons my parents taught me: to work hard, persevere, and learn from your failures have proven invaluable. Dad's wisdom, guidance, and positive role model made me the person I am today and for that I will be forever grateful. -Gale's daughter, Theresa My grandpa has always impressed upon me the importance of being frugal and saving money for the future. When I was probably 5 or 6 years old, I went shopping with my grandparents and asked for a gift quarter to buy a trinket from the little machines by the doors on our way out. Grandpa was willing to give me the quarter but with it came some questions to consider. Did I really want or need the little toy in the machine or would I rather save that quarter to buy a toy I would rather have? Then we talked about if I saved this quarter and the next 3 quarters I would have a dollar; does that buy me something I would rather have? If not, if I keep saving pretty soon I'll have $2, then $3 and so on and how much would it take to buy what I really, truly wanted? I’m not sure what I was planning to save for back then, but I do remember I saved that quarter and being sure to maintain a savings account is still a priority for me to this day! -Gale’s granddaughter, Julie
Beverly Eastberg
When I was growing up, I believed my mom could do anything. There was never anything that she couldn't fix, sew, decorate, bake, cook, or know. Mom was an avid reader and extremely smart. Whatever I needed she could always do. From typing my numerous term papers to making all of our wedding flowers, my mamma could do it all. She worked full time and was always willing to give my dad a helping hand in any of his projects or home repair. After retirement she continued to take adult education classes at the local college. She excelled in computer skills and would frequently help me with my computer woes. She especially loved taking art classes. We are blessed to have several of her beautiful paintings. I always like to tell people that she really has an "S" under her shirt because she was, and still is, my superhero. -Beverly's daughter, Janet Hueftle Mom has been a phenomenal model of motherhood for us over the years and it is a great privilege to honor her by remembering some of the many things she taught us. Most importantly she modeled three key items for my sisters and myself. First and foremost, she dedicated her life to Christ when I was very young and modeled her Christian faith to our family. Her life was deeply affected by Christ's teachings, and she modeled them in her day-to-day approach to life and interactions with others. Secondly, she modeled marital faithfulness and devotion to our dad until his death 65 years after they took their vows. This commitment provided stability for our home and helped pave the way for our subsequent success. Finally, she modeled fairness in her treatment of her children. She found unique qualities in each of her girls and made each of us feel loved and appreciated for who God had made us to be. Her belief in us helped us succeed after we left the security of their home. Her support for each of us individually fostered the lifelong desire we have felt to maintain a close tie with her - through the good times and the bad. We love you Mom, and thank God for your life. -Beverly's daughter, Susan Russell
Jan Bachmann
Mom has inspired us by example to: -Be devoted to others whether it is our family or friends or those we are caring for in our work or lives. -Be loyal to our country, church work and organization in which we serve. -Be committed to getting together with family and friends and corresponding via phone and letters. -Be hardworking at whatever we do. -Be resourceful. Utilizing items that are traditional and time transcending and develop skills to repair what we have and recycle rather than waste. -Jan's children, Sara, Paul and Joe We Love you Grandma! -Hope & Austin, Grant, Hannah, Grace and Jok
Carol Bartels
Each of my parents inspired me in different ways. My mom was the rock of the family and is truly an inspiration. She taught me to take time to stop and smell the roses and not to take life to seriously! Her magic in the kitchen was also an inspiration! My dad was a very good man who loved his family and community and continually tried to better us all. He taught me many of life's lessons about working hard, treating others the way you want to be treated, doing good for other, and leaving things better than you found them. -Carol's son, Kevin Our grandma has been a great inspiration! Grandma's "special days" were always the best! So many fun memories were made. All of us learned the fine art of making Chex Mix and banana bread from our grandma Carol. We watched her spend so much time in the place she loved, the kitchen. She always cooked fun meals for us and always had great family dinners for holidays and special occasions. Grandma Carol doesn't worry about herself, she worries about others and that is why we are inspired by her! We love Grandma Carol! -Carol’s grandchildren: Ali, Ty, Addison, and Trey Our mom has inspired us in numerous ways throughout my life. One thing has always stood out and that is her caring heart and her desire to help others whenever needed. She ALWAYS puts others before herself! Throughout life we have watched her volunteer for so many things in our community including Meals on Wheels, Sunday School teacher, Bible School leader, church dinners, bloodmobile, election committee, Gothenburg Community Improvement Program, PEO, Women’s Club, UMC circle groups, and many school functions for both her kids and grandkids. She never acted like it was work and she did it all with a smile on her face. When we got married and moved back to Gothenburg, mom fully embraced her role as grandma. Our kids had very few babysitters because grandma was always wanting to keep the kids for the night which most always turned into a weekend! She helped us out by picking our kids up from daycare and taking them to and from preschool. Grandma's "special days" started after our oldest, Ali, would talk grandma into keeping her everyday after preschool so she didn't have to go back to daycare. Grandma finally reached an agreement that Ali could pick one day a week that was her "special day" and she could spend the whole day there. This quickly evolved into spending the night before, as well! This tradition continued through all four of our kids and is something they still talk about today. We have so many friends that have mentioned many times that they want to be “Grandma Carol" when they have grandkids. As a community volunteer and a grandma, she has truly been an inspiration to so many that know her. As my dad's health started failing, we were always moved by the care and love she showed him as she helped him navigate his journey while always trying to find what was best for him. Mom has always inspired us to be better people as we strive to live a life as a servant leader just like her. That is why we love and admire her! -Carol’s son and daughter-in-law, Scott and Wendy
Kate Scott
My mom has profoundly shaped who I am today, teaching me resilience, the importance of a strong moral compass, and the deep value of taking care of family. Through her example, I learned to face life's challenges with strength and determination, understanding that true resilience means getting back up no matter how hard the fall. Her unwavering integrity and commitment to doing what's right rather than what's convenient have deeply ingrained in me the importance of living a principled life. Above all, she showed me that at the heart of everything is family-- caring for them, standing by them, and putting their needs at the forefront. Her lessons and love continue to guide me every day, pushing me to be a better person and a steadfast pillar for my loved ones. -Kate's son, Brian Scott Kate has been a wonderful inspiration to so many. She has always impressed me with her loyalty and encouragement. She is the first to offer a supporting word or reassure you that you are capable of anything. She shows up for her people - she will listen to you, pray for you, and cheer you on. The world could use more people like Kate! -Kate’s daughter-in-law, Carolyn Mom shared this prayer with me years ago as a teenager: “God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference”. I don’t often think of the prayer today, but I still remember that lesson she gave me in the kitchen – and it’s a principle that has helped shape my life. Love, Mark -Kate’s son, Mark Scott Mom has inspired me in many ways. In her younger years she was an INCREDIBLY hard worker. She had two jobs to ensure her four boys were taken care of. Nothing came between her and her family. She also inspired me through her life-long dedication to GENEROSITY!!!! While she worked two jobs to put us in a better spot, she would give the shirt off her back to those who needed it. When she sold her house, she gave some to all four boys. She is so generous that sometimes we have to tell her that you don’t have to give money to a cause. She inspires me to be dedicated. In my very younger years alcohol was in her life, but she gave that up 40 plus years ago because it was best for her four boys, and she has stuck to that plan. DEDICATION to her family. These three things not only inspire me every day but are the foundation on which all four of her boys are built. You see those strong qualities in all of their successes. -Kate’s son, Tom
Gene & Ardys Stadler
My parents have inspired me to always be a good person and be kind to others. As I was growing up, I may have strayed from the right path, but Mom and Dad were always there to help me get straightened out. (No matter how bad I screwed up) My dad instilled a good work ethic in me. He told me to always show up and give it your best. He worked for the Social Security office for his whole career, and after he retired, he continued to work in the insurance industry for another 20+ years, helping others with their Medicare and any other questions they had. This showed me that even after you retire, it is good to keep going and find something else to keep your mind and body active. My parents are always there for each other and all of us. And it has inspired the rest of us to be there for each other as well. We are a close family who will do anything for each other. -Gene & Ardys’ daughter, Lisa Stadler My parents just celebrated 70 years of marriage. Now THAT is an inspiration! I am at 44 years. I’m getting there! When I look back at my childhood, I know there were times that we didn’t have a lot, but it never felt like it at the time. We were always taken care of, fed, cleaned, loved. They are amazing grandparents! So helpful when the boys were little and then continued to be supportive as they grew up. Parker and Sam adore them. My parents love a lot. And it is reciprocated. -Gene & Ardys’ daughter, Debbie Stone Mom and Dad inspired us by being loving and generous people. They lived their Christian faith daily. Their marriage commitment to each other throughout our lives is a great inspiration for us. -Gene & Ardys’ son, Mark and family
Johnny & Janice Janssen
We are so appreciative of the upbringing that we had, even though as a child you don’t realize it. Mom and dad gave us a good childhood. We have good memories of going to our grandparent's house, taking vacations, Christmas mornings, riding horses in the evenings as a family (sometimes mom would join us) dad hauling horses to different 4H events and always meals together, many trips all together in the front seat of a pickup to check the pastures (if we were lucky, we’d get to stop at Kips for an ice cream cone on the way home from the south pasture)! Dad taught us there is no free sandwich, which taught us the importance of working hard, and having a job as soon we could get one. He had a few interesting ways of getting us up in the morning, which none of us were a fan of but he sure got an enjoyment out of it! Dad always said, “the early bird gets the worm”. We learned how to work together to get the chores done. He bought us a 3-wheeler to entertain us, which was fun for all of us! He was so instrumental in teaching us about all livestock. We enjoyed taking care of cows, sheep, pigs, hogs(not so much), and horses! He taught Dave so much about cattle and has lived that out as his business. Mom was a wonderful seamstress and made many of our clothes. She helped us with sewing 4H projects. Mom was in charge of ripping out my mistakes! She was also a wonderful baker and cook. It was so wonderful to come home from school to homemade cinnamon rolls. She made Christmas so special, because she went over the top on cookies and candies and loved to share them with others. Mom always kept a garden and flowers in the yard. We really enjoyed learning those talents. Her canning kept the cellar full year-round. Mom also had a full-time job at Slacks Nursing home when we were all in school. She was a very caring and loving caregiver. Our parents were very helpful whenever we needed someone to watch the grandkids, and loved to spend time with them, and dad loved to tease each one of them equally. As we are now grandparents ourselves, we realize how much they taught us. We were shown to always greet people in the room and be kind to everyone. Making church a priority and knowing where we will spend eternity! We love you mom and dad! -Johnny & Janice’s children: Elaine, Diane and Dave
Esther Oosting
Mom, this is a picture of you holding me in my baptismal dress. From only a few months of age, you inspired me in my faith journey. You modeled for me and my siblings that life wasn't about us but rather about serving and caring for others. And your definition of others included our family members, especially Jeanne and Grandma Parde; your church family (playing the organ, teaching Sunday school, and making quilts); your community family (being recognized as the volunteer of the year) and your larger global family (Oaks Indian Mission). On your heart are engraved the words, "Well done, my good and faithful servant." I only hope I can live up to your accomplishments. I love you mom! -Esther's Daughter, Gladys Esther’s strong faith is her most inspirational attribute. Her love and knowledge of Jesus has inspired her family, her friends, and the many young children she has taught in Sunday School. Grandma knows the Bible like the back of her hand and has formed the strongest relationship with Jesus. She has even inspired one of her granddaughters to continue the tradition of playing the piano in church, and several family members reading the daily scriptures in church service. Grandma’s strong faith and dedication to Jesus has led all of her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren to be baptized and have strong relationships with Jesus. She also has taught us about giving back to the community and how important that is. -Esther’s daughter, Nadine and family Mom has inspired me in so many ways. I could write a book on all of my wonderful memories I have, however, I will just mention a few ways my Mother has inspired me. First of all, her strong faith and Christian values are the root of everything she does. She always gave of her time, talent, and treasures whether it was for the church, the community or for the school. This also goes with her work ethics. Mom worked hard whether it was for the family business, in the garden, cooking, cleaning our home, grandparents, or neighbor’s homes. She played the organ for church, taught Sunday School, Vacation Bible School, bible studies, altar guild, quilting… She helped out at school whenever they needed volunteers. She would always help or assist anyone and not ask for anything in return. She put everyone else first. Another way she inspired me was her love of music. The photo was taken at one of my many recitals. She used to help me with my recitals, whether it was with baking refreshments for afterwards, or just being there to support me! She drove me to many music lessons, honor bands or music festivals when I was young. As I mentioned, Mom helped bake goodies for my recitals. This is another way that she inspired me. I love cooking and baking and I cook just like my mother. We generally follow a recipe and measurements are just approximate! Mom made everything taste so yummy. Some of my favorites were her homemade pies, apple cake, tapioca pudding, and potato salad. I learned cake decorating in 4-H. Mom would help me make the cakes and frosting. We made so many cakes together. Mom always had homemade cookies available. She would often triple the recipe and freeze them. I remember several times, Mom would go downstairs to the freezer to get out another container of cookies, and it would be almost gone. My brother’s bedroom was downstairs and he would just eat them out of the freezer! Being the youngest child, I will always cherish my memories of my mother, from being her sidekick when I was young to just sitting down and talking with her now. -Esther’s daughter, Lorraine Haupt
Who has inspired you? - Resident Edition
From the Stone Hearth September newsletter, check out Stone Hearth residents and the people that have inspired them!
