Mennonite Home Honors Leamans

Everyone loves a picnic! Certainly the residents of Mennonite Home do. For 30 summers, Henry Leaman has been picnicking at Mennonite Home and his wife, Marian, has been helping for 22. Most importantly, they've been inviting residents to join them. This annual rite of summer sadly came to an end on Friday, August 10 as the Leamans helped to prepare and serve their last lunchtime picnic on the grounds of Mennonite Home.

As Volunteer Coordinator Kathy Maule explains, the Leamans, who now live in Lititz, have partnered with Mennonite Home staff to prepare and serve lunchtime picnics to personal care and skilled nursing residents on Wednesdays and Fridays for five weeks, for a total of 10 picnics, during the summer months. Weather permitting, the picnics are held outside on the patio near the stream running behind Mennonite Home – a wonderful treat for residents who enjoy spending time outdoors.

Henry began grilling hamburgers and hot dogs for the picnics while still serving as Director of Maintenance at Mennonite Home. It began as an outgrowth from his tradition of making and then bringing in homemade ice cream for residents on his birthday in December. Upon his retirement in 1989, Marian started to join him in helping with the events. In addition, the Leamans have volunteered with numerous other projects throughout Mennonite Home, always lending a hand where needed.

To honor their much-appreciated efforts, Mennonite Home presented them with a gift basket and special presentation in their honor – a fitting tribute to a couple who will long be remembered for the joy they've brought to others.