Mercer Health honors volunteers at annual appreciation banquet

ST. HENRY — Mercer Health recognized the service and dedication of its volunteers during the annual Volunteer Appreciation Banquet held April 13 at Romer’s Catering in St. Henry.

The evening began with an invocation from Volunteer Chaplain Steve Broering, followed by a year in review from Volunteer Association Vice Chairperson Terry Liette. Mercer Health CEO Jon Dingledine served as guest speaker and thanked volunteers for their continued commitment to the health of the community.

Deb Hemmelgarn, Director of MED Foundation and Volunteer Services, said the organization is grateful for the time and effort volunteers give to Mercer Health.

In 2025, the Volunteer Association donated 9,798.69 hours of service.

Among the top award recipients, Irene Seitz was recognized for the most hours to date with 5,902.65 hours, while Roy Kremer recorded the most hours in 2025 with 487.57 hours.

Several volunteers were also recognized for reaching milestone service levels, including benchmarks of 250, 500, 1,000, and 2,000 hours.

As part of the evening, the Volunteer Association awarded its annual $1,500 scholarship to Elle Weber of Coldwater. Mercer Health said Weber is a graduating senior who has volunteered 165 hours over the past year and three months, serving in both the Emergency Department and Inpatient Unit. She plans to study nursing at Wright State University Lake Campus, with long term goals of attending medical school and returning to serve the local community.

Mercer Health says volunteer opportunities are available at its Coldwater and Maria Stein locations. More information is available through Mercer Health Volunteer Services.