VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT - AUGUST 2020

 

Bob Bachman

After Bob’s wife passed away in 2014, one of the regular attendees of WCCOA lunches in Grand Rapids suggested that he join for a meal. At that time, Grand Rapids was not yet a regular site, but served meals a few days a week. After being hassled for several months, he decided to give it a try. He was glad he did and realized it was one less meal he had to cook! He enjoyed playing Bingo, and when the regular caller was unable to be there one day, he volunteered and is still the Bingo caller today! Once the Grand Rapids Area Senior Center became “official” in 2019, Bob also started assisting with other duties.

Bob is a retired “jack of all trades and master of none”. He worked in a factory, was a State Highway Patrolman, a township maintenance man, and a farmer. Today, he lives with his dog and some steers, helps his son farm when he needs it and attends church regularly. Bob enjoys time on his boat, attending his grandchildren’s activities, shooting, playing bingo, and being involved in several organizations.

Thank you, Bob, for your service to the Wood County Committee on Aging!

Larry & Sandy Batoki

Larry & Sandy read about home delivered meals and decided they wanted to get involved. They were familiar with the senior center at the time, having lunches there on several occasions. Sandy is the driver while Larry is the “face” that most clients see. He has formed many meaningful relationships with the clients over the years.

Larry & Sandy have performed musically for several birthday lunches and Breakfast with Santa events at the Wood County Senior Center. They also hold a Catholic Service and music at Wood Haven Health Care and have enjoyed their time there.

Larry and Sandy met in a co-ed curling class at BGSU in 1969. They both went on to graduate with special education degrees. Larry taught Junior High in Toledo for 30 years and retired in 2003. Sandy spent two years teaching business classes at a high school in Toledo, then moved on to secretary work for several local companies. She eventually retired from Penta Career Center in 2008 after 18 years there.

Sandy’s hobbies include reading, flower gardening and crocheting. Larry enjoys playing his guitar, singing and entertaining. Over the years, he has also built three gazebo structures and the front and back porches on their property.

Thank you, Larry & Sandy, for your service to the Wood County Committee on Aging!