An Ageless Legacy: Reflections on VMRC’s 70 Years
In a heartfelt and memorable evening, VMRC recently celebrated its 70th year of serving the community with an event that brought together guests, residents, staff members and descendants of our community’s pioneers to share reflections and stories about VMRC. It was a time to honor the past, appreciate the present and look forward to the future.
An Ageless Legacy: Reflections on VMRC’s 70 Years was hosted by the VMRC Foundation and Wellness and Enrichment.
A Walk Down Memory Lane
The event opened with remarks from Melinda Noland, Vice President of Wellness & Enrichment. She welcomed guests and introduced Joe Hackman, Executive Director of the VMRC Foundation, who stood as proxy for the much-anticipated guest moderator Judith Trumbo, former CEO of VMRC.
Judith was unable to attend the event due to illness. But during one of the most touching moments of the evening, Joe read aloud Judith’s reflections, which were filled with humor and the special turns of phrases she was known for. Her message resonated deeply, making the audience feel she was there in person.
A panelist of speakers included:
Eunice Showalter, resident and former VMRC staff member; David Eshleman, resident and son of Dr. Merle Eshleman, the Virginia Mennonite Home’s first physician; Laurence Sauder, resident and former Virginia Mennonite Home (VMRC) board member and builder who managed the development of Park Village in the 1980s; Nelson Showalter, resident and son of Carl Showalter, Virginia Mennonite Home’s first pharmacist; Pearl Lantz, resident and former VMRC staff member; Randy Seitz, current board member and architect who worked on the construction of PG, Crestwood and the Wellness Center and the grandson, father and nephew of past and current VMRC residents; and Heather Yoder, current VMRC staff member who has worked in many roles over her 20 years of service to the community.
The event was a tapestry of cherished memories and heartfelt stories, weaving together the rich history of VMRC. Narratives also highlighted the commitment, compassion and vision that have been the foundation of VMRC for seven decades.
Collective Memories and Sweet Conclusions
After the presentation, attendees were invited to a delightful dessert reception where they could write their favorite memories of VMRC on a board displayed on VMRC’s Main Street. The collective sharing created a beautiful mosaic of experiences, underscoring VMRC's impact on many lives.
The event celebrated VMRC’s past and its vibrant, ongoing community.
A broadcast of this event aired on WBTX 102.1 FM and 1470 AM on Tuesday, June 25, at 7 p.m. To watch a video of the event, click here.
