50 Over 60: People making a difference

Rick Murphy, 60s, Benton Harbor: Rick has a passion for feeding people in Southwest Michigan. After caring for both of his live-in parents for 6-years, Rick desired a career change, something with an opportunity to give back. Going from 30 years as an engineer in manufacturing to a non-profit fighting for food security was a big transition! Through the mobile pantry program, serving both the host sites and thousands of consumers each year, he’s handled the transition perfectly.

Della Bundle, 60s, Cassopolis Della has a remarkable history of service. She balanced raising her family with working in public schools as a para-professional, providing vital support to deans, counselors, administrators, and sponsoring extracurricular activities. After her retirement, she continued to serve the community with over eight years in local government and volunteer work with various charitable organizations.

Julie Dye, 60s, Dowagiac: Julie is one of the founding members of the Social Justice Alliance of Cass County (SJACC), having been involved since its initial meetings in June 2020. She has consistently supported the group as an experienced community advocate and a member of the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi. As a woman of BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, people of color) heritage, Julie contributes a crucial perspective on the challenges and misrepresentations faced by Native Americans in Cass County and beyond.

Chris Spitters, 60s, Stevensville: Chris is a dynamic leader within our community. As the lead pastor at First Church in Stevensville, he provides care to many individuals. Active in the special needs community, he helps with the Young Life group called “Capernaum,” fostering connections with young people who have disabilities to help them find purpose and friendship. Chris also hosts a service for those affected by disabilities, ensuring that people from diverse backgrounds feel welcome and able to participate in church activities.

Martin Dixon, 70s, St. Joseph: Since retiring around 2010, Martin has volunteered with numerous organizations in the Benton Harbor-St. Joseph area making life better for all those he serves. He started as one of the first computer instructors for AAA’s SeniorNet classes and continued through its transition to Campus for Creative Aging, even revising many computer courses to meet students’ needs. He also led and dedicated many hours to Krasl’s Art on the Bluff, volunteers at the Silver Beach Carousel, and participated in several Habitat for Humanity builds.

JoAnn Flowers, 70s, South Haven: JoAnn has dedicated her life to helping others. She is a retired Information Technologist who worked for AT&T for 30 years. Through Senior Services of Van Buren County’s Retired Senior Volunteer Program, she has significantly contributed to the success of VITA Tax Assistance, Michigan Medicare Assistance Program, and AARP Driver Safety Programs over many years. Additionally, she has volunteered at mobile food pantries, a women’s shelter, The Scott Club, and the American Red Cross.

Mike and Barbara Ford, 70s, St. Joseph: Mike and Barbara have independently managed the Berrien County Parkinson Support Group (BCPSG) for many years, acting as both organizers and facilitators. BCPSG convenes monthly, providing educational resources and support to individuals with Parkinson’s, as well as their caregivers. They often invite guest speakers who specialize in Parkinson’s, such as doctors, movement disorder specialists, and other experts in related fields like nutrition and dementia. Despite their extensive responsibilities, Barbara and Mike have been fulfilling these roles while also dealing with the challenges of being a caregiver and a person with Parkinson’s Disease for over 20 years

Dave Foerster, 80s, Paw Paw, has been a dedicated servant of his community and the environment for many years. He’s a founder of the Two Rivers Coalition, a group of volunteers working to protect the Black River and Paw Paw River Watersheds. He volunteers through Van Buren County Senior Services, serves as a board member for the Van Buren County Domestic Violence Coalition, and has held numerous other positions on boards like the Southwest Michigan Planning Commission and Van Buren County Land Preservation Board. 

Robin McGinnis, 70s, South Haven, is lauded as “a true champion for our vulnerable community members.” Newly retired, she walked into The Avenue Family Network (now Caring Connection) to volunteer and was immediately recruited as their COO. She soon became Chief Strategy Office, and most recently, CEO. She works tirelessly to facilitate inter-agency collaboration and has led the charge to open an intergenerational adult day center in South Haven. She’s described as “an unstoppable force,” always willing to lend a hand or serve when called upon. 

Maureen Adams, 60s, St. Joseph, found her calling in her 50s when she began using her skills as a parent advocate to assist veterans as a service officer in Berrien County. In 2022, she was promoted to director and has worked tirelessly to build a team to better communication and outreach with area veterans and their families and guide them through the maze of veteran benefits and emergency assistance. It’s been said, “Her work changes lives.” In addition to this role, she serves on several nonprofit boards and committees throughout Berrien County. 

Kathleen Randall, 70s, Paw Paw, is not only a retired social worker and police officer from Cass County but served as a founding member of the Michigan Domestic and Sexual Violence Prevention and Treatment Board when it was established in 1978. A true advocate, she organizes free self-defense classes for victims of domestic and sexual violence and serves as a board member for the Van Buren County Domestic Violence Coalition. 

Sue Sanders, 70s, Benton Harbor, is a proud caregiver to her husband and to others in the community. She’s worked for Private Duty Home Healthcare since October 2022 and rarely misses a day of work. Before retiring, she worked for the state of Michigan, helping with volunteer services. Her nominator said, “Her life experiences and knowledge help her make a difference in the lives of her clients. She is nurturing and compassionate and is a wonderful caregiver.” 

Gordon Dill, 80s, St. Joseph, has helped hundreds of people fall in love with pickleball. He was instrumental in bringing the game to the St. Joseph Lincoln Township Senior Center and designing what the program might look like for older adult players. He volunteers his time teaching a beginner’s class. At almost 90, he continues to race his sailboat weekly and even recently influenced the creation of two new fleets, so the older boats had a class of their own. 

Judith Halseth, 80s, Paw Paw, spent her career as a professor of social work at Western Michigan University and has continued to teach, serve and impact her community in her retirement. She has a passion for genealogy and has shared that passion with others by teaching genealogy courses. She also serves as the vice president of the Van Buren County Domestic Violence Coalition, is an active member of her church, and sings in the Paw Paw Community Chorus.

Dave Stowers, 70s, Coloma: Dave Stowers lives a life of service. A retired welding & woodshop teacher and Coloma varsity football coach, his impact continues. In retirement, Dave continues to serve young and old; coaching youth softball, mentoring young men and fathers, and leading community efforts through his church. Dave relates to people from all walks of life, imparting wisdom with humility and a large dose of humor. One man said recently, “The life lessons that this man taught me I can’t put into words! Every single day of my life I use a skill this man taught me! I am forever grateful.”

Autumn Zick, 60s, St. Joseph: Autumn Zick has dedicated herself to the empowerment of people with disabilities. She also loves horses and knows the joy they can bring to people. In 1981, she became the first therapeutic riding instructor in the area and taught at We Can Ride 4-H for many years. In 2006, with a small and dedicated team, she began the Therapeutic Equestrian Center (TEC), to engage the power of horses to people of all ages. After retiring from her work as a Speech Therapist at Blossomland Learning Center, she has further developed TEC’s programs, inspiring volunteers and participants with her skills and devotion.

Bob Cooley, 80s, St. Joseph: Bob Cooley is making a difference in our community and deserves high recognition! Over the years he has volunteered at the Cancer Center and volunteered his time fixing cemetery headstones and creating directories so that visitors can locate their loved ones. He has volunteered at public parks and the soup kitchen, and has purchased groceries and other items to donate to the women’s shelter and helps the Lions Club with an annual car show. After his wife passed away, he donated items and continued visiting Stately Living.  He does so generously with no expectation of acknowledgement or thank you.

Doreena Dunning, 60s, St. Joseph: Doreena Dunning works in a nursing home as an occupational therapist but always goes above and beyond to help patients, elderly people or anyone in need of her help on her own time. She became certified in accessibility and accessibility equipment and frequently helps get people set up for success with the proper equipment for their needs (power chairs, wheelchairs, walkers) and things that help with comfort. She treats people with dignity and compassion.

Yvonne Vidt, 70s, St. Joseph: Yvonne Vidt has been dedicated to Southwest Michigan Community Action Agency’s mission of service to the communities of Berrien, Cass and Van Buren Counties for over 27 years. Yvonne manages over 10 programs and always gives her best, putting the interest of her clients first. Yvonne truly cares about the communities she services.  She organized the first drive through food distribution at the Benton Harbor food commodity site, a model that was utilized throughout the tri-county area during COVID. She also secured extra food to hold special food giveaways for communities during the crisis.

Connie Demler, 60s, Baroda: Connie is the longest standing nurse at Berrien County Cancer Service, starting in 1992. She has provided compassionate skilled nursing care for thousands of people with cancer in their home, school or workplace. She is a well loved and respected nurse throughout the County. She keeps trying to retire to spend time with grandchildren, but she truly has a heart to continue working with patients 1-2 days a week. She is often busy with her church, Zion United Church of Christ in Baroda. She has worked and donated many hours to making life better for people in Berrien County.

Lisa Kuehnle, 70s, Hartford: Lisa Kuehnle is a former speech therapist working with children in Van Buren County schools where she continues to have deep community impact post-retirement. Since 2013, Lisa spends several days a week volunteering at Watervliet hospital providing a welcoming presence at the information desk and lab/radiology waiting room. She provides information, answers questions and creates a welcoming environment at a very stressful time for people. Lisa lends her expertise to non-profit governance by volunteering on the Hartford Schools Foundation, Community Hospital Foundation Board and Watervliet Hospital Board since 2000. She was a driving force behind fundraising for the Watervliet parcourse outdoor fitness facility with workout stations accessible for all ages and abilities.

John Faul, 60s, Paw Paw: John Faul has dedicated over 20 years to Van Buren County, serving as County Administrator from 2000-2006, 2017-2021, and returning from retirement in 2023 to provide seasoned leadership. His leadership brought valued stability and consistency to the county. John has been instrumental in managing the county’s budget, addressing community needs, and overseeing critical initiatives. He is also focused on creating a succession plan to ensure the county remains in good hands upon his official retirement. John’s unwavering commitment, sense of service, and extensive experience make him an ideal candidate for 50 over 60 recognition.

Ron Griffin, 80s, St. Joseph: Ron Griffin has been a dedicated servant of St. Joseph Charter Township government for 48 years. During that time, he was appointed to many township committees including but not limited to Parks, Public Safety, and the Water and Sewer Authority and has been one of the major organizers of walking trails in the Township. He served on the Board of Trustees as Supervisor and continues to serve today as a Trustee. Ron also participated in broader community service as the leader in development of the Dial-A-Ride program in 1974 and he played a major role in the New House Numbering System Project during the 1970’s which led to 911 service.

Anna Abdelnour, 60s, St. Joseph: Anna Abdelnour has dedicated her life to kids in the community. She serves on the St. Joseph Public School Foundation and has for 14 years. She is President of the Blossomtime festival and one of the varsity sideline cheer coaches at St. Joseph High School. She works with kids in all the communities of southwest Michigan instilling confidence and pride, coaching interview skills, proper professional dress, and public speaking skills. She provides many hours of one-on-one mentoring. She is extremely dedicated to making sure the kids in our community have opportunities to be the very best they can be

Charlie Olszewski, 70s, St. Joseph: Charlie Olszewski has been a devoted volunteer for the Campus for Creative Aging for the last five years, teaching everything from Wine to Scams! In addition to teaching for the Campus, Charlie volunteers his time as a Lincoln Township Planning Commissioner, Krasl Art Center volunteer, Lincoln Township Library volunteer and more. He has dedicated his retirement years to giving back to Southwest Michigan. As a retired engineer and college professor, Charlie’s seminars are thoroughly researched and explained in a way that makes even the most confusing topics, like Bitcoin, easy to understand. He makes learning fun and entertaining.

Dr. Terry McIlvaine, 60s, St. Joseph: Dr. Terry McIlvaine moved to the area 20 years ago as a transplant from Ohio. With over 26 years of experience, she is a gem among the area’s hearing healthcare providers. As an audiologist at Dr. Kasewurm’s Professional Hearing Services, she daily helps patients improve their quality of life through better hearing. Dr. Terry establishes relationships with her patients, treats them like family, and supports their ongoing hearing healthcare journey. In addition, she helps mentor new audiologists, sharing her experience and expertise widely.

Emanual “Mack” and Sharon Brown, 70s, Benton Harbor: Mack and Sharon were born and raised in Benton Harbor. While they spent their professional careers in California, they came back to “retire” in Benton Harbor. Seeing the need for community and education, the Browns founded the African American History & Literature Gallery in Benton Harbor.

Sharon Polfus, 60s, St. Joseph: Sharon has made community service her vocation. With more than 40 years of service at United Way of Southwest Michigan, the leadership team there says she has been an instrumental reason for so much success over the years. Her drive and passion continue to enable her to get things done. Sharon is a true servant leader with a heart of gold. When asked what drives her commitment to community service, Sharon says, “It gives me the opportunity to live out my faith and make a real meaningful difference in people’s lives.” Sharon leads with the traits she most values in great leaders: humility, honesty and accountability.

Angela LaBarca, 60s, South Haven: Angela has a servant heart and advocates for seniors and those in hospice care. She works at Corewell Health Hospice and Palliative Care, which started her journey in service to older adults, but she didn’t stop there. Angela is an ambassador for the South Haven Chamber and she has many years of service with the South Haven Area Kiwanis as a board member. She is an advocate for keeping seniors safe, serving on the board of the area’s TRIAD.

Jackie Huie, 60s, St. Joseph: As the JohnsonRauhoff CEO and chief creative officer, Jackie Huie is a major advocate for helping young people succeed. In 2007, Jackie launched the Rotary Student Program, which connects high school students to professionals in dream careers. Participants include a NYC prima ballerina, NASA physicist and Whirlpool CEO. Since inception, the program has helped more than 400 local students, been adopted by Rotary Clubs around the world, and holds website traffic from 145 countries.

Bill Marohn: Retired 25 years following a stellar career in Whirlpool leadership, Bill Marohn’s commitment to community has never slackened. He has built and/ or strengthened many community organizations and lent his expertise through board membership of multiple local corporations. He was instrumental in building the St. Joseph Public School Foundation, where he served for 10 years and still assists with fund development. Following the death of a friend, he was a founder and board chair of Lory’s Place, providing grief support services for grieving children, adults and families.

Mamie Yarbrough: Mamie L. Yarbrough graduated from Benton High School and attended Western Michigan University. Following 30 years in housing management, her commitment to community continues. She served as president and secretary of Benton Harbor Area Schools Board of Education. She is president of the Benton Harbor Public Library Board, Benton Harbor Homecoming Inc. and the Coming Home Coming Together Concert Committee. A Berrien County commissioner for 20 years, she chairs finance, is board chaplain, and serves on the Land Bank Authority, Economic Development Corporation, Pension Board, Parks and Recreation, Kinexus and Michigan Works Improvement Committee.

Phil Medo: At 83 years old, Phil Medo is an active member of the community with the family comment, “he’s too busy to quit.” He is an active real estate broker and partner at Core Real Estate in Stevensville. He finds purpose helping people secure a home and realize a dream, often assisting with creative financing options that meet their needs. A 50-year member and past-president of the St.

Dave Vodry: In retirement, Dave Vodry found he had more to give and looked for an avenue for his skills. He has been an integral part of the Inn at Harbor Shores maintenance team for the past seven years. He is the kind of man who knows what to do and works behind the scenes to make a difference, and he does. Sometimes a team of one, he figures it out and handles all the responsibilities himself. He takes ownership and pride, keeping the accommodations in tip-top shape for all who visit our community. He represents the sometimes unsung heroes whose impact is real on our community and all those who visit.

Gerry Cox: Dr. Gerry Cox has been a dedicated math faculty member at Lake Michigan College for almost five decades. His unwavering commitment to education is evident in his extensive academic journey, including a bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, MAT in mathematics, and a Ph.D. in curriculum and instruction with a math emphasis. Dr. Cox holds two master’s degrees, including an master’s in mathematics, showcasing his commitment to knowledge beyond academia. With accolades like Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers and active involvement in prestigious organizations, he has made significant contributions to mathematical education, presenting over 50 papers at conferences.

Walter Swann 80s, Dowagiac: Walter “Coach” Swann began boxing during his days in the military when one of Swann’s superiors suggested that he compete in a “smoker” boxing. As it turned out, the self-proclaimed “country boy” was a natural, swiftly winning the bout. He later joined the Naval boxing team and had a record of 39 wins and three losses. After retirement from the navy, Walter began serving with the Police Athletic League’s youth boxing program, helping train local kids in the art of boxing, with several of his students winning Golden Gloves in regional tournaments.

Hilda Banyon 70s, St. Joseph: Hilda is a passionate advocate for people in need in our community. Hilda was instrumental in starting Lory’s Place and the Hanson Hospice Center, ensuring people at the end of life have the compassionate care they need throughout their journey as well as ensuring grief support is available in our community after experiencing a loss. Hilda’s leadership and involvement with Lory’s Place and the Hanson Hospice Center has allowed organizational expansion to serve thousands of people in our community.

Bertha Carson-King 70s, Benton Harbor: Bertha founded the Strong Women of Faith Breast Cancer Support group in 2001 believing that what one woman cannot do alone, in a community of women; unity, strength and successful healing can be accomplished. Dedicated to the support of people in her community, Bertha serves on several boards including Caring Circle and Corewell Health South Board of Directors and Area Agency on Aging Advisory Committee actively contributing to community voice impact on health and social care delivery.

Sandy Hayes 70s, Stevensville: During her decades-long career, Sandy impacted thousands of people through her work on asthma and diabetes education, and her efforts to reduce infant mortality rates (just to name a few things). In addition, she has served as the band nurse for the Lakeshore High School Marching Band for nearly 35 years.

Prudy Barrett Nelson, 60s, Baroda: Twenty years into her 30 years as a respected pediatrician, Prudy earned a Master of Public Health. Before retiring, she also completed a three-year Post-Grad Diploma in Infectious Disease. Since 1992, Prudy has provided volunteer emergency medical care in 17 countries and established both Ugandan and US based nonprofits devoted to vulnerable children.

Cindy Gray 70s, St. Joseph: Cindy has been a long-time, effective advocate for people with disabilities throughout Southwestern Michigan. Moreover, she is committed to reforming and improving the public transit systems in Berrien County. She takes the time to not just point out problems, but she works to find solutions that will benefit the community on whose behalf she works, as well as the larger community. Cindy strives to get to know decision-makers personally, and as a result increases her effectiveness. “We could use many more like her that demonstrate persistence, empathy, and hard work,” says Paul Gillespie, Cindy’s nominator.

Larry Wozniak, 70s, Stevensville – Larry has spent a life dedicated to service – including serving in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. In 2017, Larry was asked to helm Lest We Forget, the nonprofit organization dedicated to honoring and remembering U.S. veterans and at 67, Larry again answered the call.

Paul Koth 70s, Sawyer – “I have known Paul for 7 years and immediately recognized his joyful heart for giving,” his nominator reports. As a veteran Paul is active in the American Legion, VFW and Lest We Forget. He regularly volunteers to drive for the River Valley Senior Center taking seniors to their medical appointments and had sat on the Michigan Veteran Trust Fund for over 15 years assisting veterans with emergent needs.

Al Pscholka 60s, Stevensville – Al currently serves as the Executive Director of Community and Government Relations at Lake Michigan College. A long-time community leader, Pscholka, has been a small business owner, worked in community and economic development, and has over 25 years experience at the local, state, and federal government levels. As a Member of the Michigan House of Representatives, he served as the Appropriations Chairman and completed major projects in the community such as finishing the long-awaited US 31 highway.

Vickie Head 60s, Watervliet – “Vickie should be included in Area Agency on Aging’s 50 over 60 because she exemplifies servant leadership and hard work in the office and community,” says Lieutenant Mario Bledsoe, Pastor/Corps Officer at the Salvation Army in Benton Harbor. Vickie has worked for The Salvation Army of Benton Harbor for over 31 years and enjoys going the extra mile to help others. Her role is Business Manager, but she wears the hats of case manager, social service manager, administrative worker, cares for the men’s shelter, and knows everything about The Salvation Army.

ET Buck 90s, South Haven: A retired pastor who volunteers in the South Haven Head Start program, “Grandpa” Buck has made a significant impact over his 18 years of volunteer service according to Head Start staff. He enriches the lives of others, particularly those who are vulnerable or less able to help themselves.

Floyd Groner 70s, Dowagiac, MI. – Transportation is recognized across the region as a common barrier. Many people talk about solutions to transportation challenges. Floyd doesn’t just talk, he acts. Volunteering over 500 hours each year, Floyd drives seniors and individuals with disabilities to important medical appointments inside and outside of Cass County.

Deb Standen 60s, St. Joseph – Some heroes serve on the front line, others serve quietly in the background ensuring that when critical needs arise, resources are readily available. Deb Stanton, a retired special education teacher, embodies both. Since her retirement from St. Joseph public schools, Deb fills her days serving at numerous nonprofits. Recognizing the enormity of the challenges faced by those impacted by a cancer diagnosis, since 2017 Deb has worked behind the scenes to keep a Resource Locker at Berrien County Cancer Service filled with equipment, supplies and comfort items important to cancer patients’ treatment and recovery journey.

Nancy Church 60s, Berrien Springs – A traveling nurse since 1994, Nancy Church became the Berrien County Cancer Service Executive Director in 2012. Her staff report that Nancy has led the organization with humility, grace, prayer and a keen sense of humor through numerous challenges to accomplish important community impact. Throughout her adulthood, Nancy has made her passion her profession. With determined focus and purpose, Nancy is dedicated to ensuring cancer patients have access to in-home nursing services, equipment, information and supplies at no cost for cancer patients and their families in Berrien County. Thank you, Nancy, for dedicating your career to easing the burdens of cancer patients and their families.