St. Francis Senior Ministries

02/22/2026

Friedman Village Assisted Living residents had a joyful afternoon last week!

A big thank you to Bob and Mary Fry for coming in to lead a sing-along. Our residents had a wonderful time singing along to familiar favorites, clapping, smiling, and sharing in the music together.

02/20/2026

Congratulations to Richard and Andrea Traunero who recently received the 2026 Franciscan Partnership Award presented by the Sisters of St. Francis.

Richard and Andrea have faithfully and compassionately served the Sisters of St. Francis, particularly at the time of a Sister’s death. In their role as funeral directors, they provide care marked by deep reverence for the deceased Sister and genuine compassion for community members who mourn her passing. Their presence brings comfort, dignity, and peace during moments of profound loss.

In keeping with the Franciscan commitment to care for creation and uphold the dignity of human life, Richard has conducted extensive research on green burial practices to assist the Sisters in making informed and mission-aligned decisions. This work reflects a thoughtful integration of environmental stewardship and respect for life, core principles of Franciscan spirituality.

Richard also serves as a Lifeline Pilots volunteer, using his private airplane to provide free medical transportation across the Midwest for individuals in need. The core values of Lifeline Pilots—safety, stewardship, respect, quality service, continuous improvement, and collaboration—closely mirror the values held by the Franciscan community. Andrea often accompanies Richard on these flights, sharing in this ministry of service, which directly responds to the Gospel call to care for the “least of these.”

For nearly 25 years, Richard served on the St. Francis Spirituality Center Development Committee, helping the Center respond to the spiritual needs of individuals and families while also strengthening its presence and reputation within the Tiffin community. His leadership contributed both to financial stability and to the Center’s visibility as a place of spiritual welcome and growth.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Andrea demonstrated remarkable leadership and compassion by organizing and leading a group to make masks to help prevent the spread of the virus and protect those most vulnerable. Her actions once again reflected a deep commitment to serving those in greatest need.

Andrea and Richard have served as the Sisters’ funeral directors since 1997, during their ownership of the funeral home, which itself marked 125 years of service in Tiffin, Ohio. They are attentive and present at every Sisters’ funeral, offering thoughtful guidance, respectful service, and modern accommodations such as livestreaming of funeral and cemetery services to ensure accessibility for all.

Beyond their professional responsibilities, Andrea and Richard often join the Sisters in worship during funeral liturgies. They work closely with the community to ensure services are scheduled with care and sensitivity, always prioritizing reverence, respect, and the needs of the Sisters.

Through decades of faithful service, compassionate presence, and alignment with Franciscan values, Richard and Andrea Traunero exemplify partnership, stewardship, and loving care. Their contributions have left a lasting and meaningful impact on the Sisters of St. Francis and the broader community they serve.

02/20/2026

Congratulations to Deb Weaver who was recently awarded the 2026 Franciscan Partnership Award presented by the Franciscan Earth Literacy Center.

Deb is a generous and dedicated individual who brings her full heart and energy to every role she undertakes. In addition to her extensive contributions to the Franciscan Earth Literacy Center (FELC), she remains highly active as a substitute teacher at Hopewell-Loudon School, where she previously served for many years as an educator. Deb also volunteers her time with the school’s Athletic Boosters program, working diligently behind the scenes to ensure students and programs are well supported. Although retired, Deb continues to serve the community with remarkable commitment and enthusiasm.

Deb was hired as FELC’s Field Trip Coordinator and Educator, and she has truly revitalized this program. Through the development of new curriculum and the strengthening of relationships with local educators—many of whom she has known through her years of teaching—she has significantly expanded FELC’s reach and impact. Deb has taken great care to organize and deep clean all educational supplies and routinely arrives before programs to prepare learning spaces, including tending to animal habitats and addressing any additional needs of the Center. Her passion for education and environmental stewardship is evident in every aspect of her work, and we are deeply grateful for her presence on our team.

Deb has devoted countless hours to enhancing and reimagining FELC’s field trip programming and continues to offer innovative ideas that will support and sustain educational initiatives well into the future. She consistently gives far beyond what is required, and her diligence and professionalism reflect the high quality of environmental education that FELC provides to the community. Without Deb’s dedication, leadership, and tireless service, the growth and success of FELC’s educational programs would not be possible. She exemplifies the spirit of partnership, service, and excellence that this award seeks to honor.

02/20/2026

Congratulations to Ann Seyer who was the recipient of the 2026 Franciscan Partnership Award from St. Francis Senior Ministries.

Ann established a Parkinson’s Support Group on the grounds of St. Francis to provide care, encouragement, and community for individuals supporting loved ones living with this disease. By graciously hosting the group at her villa, she created a welcoming and compassionate environment where understanding, dignity, and mutual support flourish.

Ann’s husband was once a resident of St. Francis Home, and during that time she began volunteering in the Activities Department. Following his passing, Ann chose to continue her service to St. Francis Home, demonstrating a profound commitment to the mission and values of the Franciscan community. She is widely recognized for her kindness, compassion, and gentle presence, bringing comfort and joy to all whom she encounters.

Ann consistently responds to the needs of St. Francis Home with generosity and dedication. She is always willing to assist without hesitation and frequently goes above and beyond by offering additional hours and days of service when needed. The residents hold a special place in her heart, and she is deeply committed to ensuring they experience the fullness of care, engagement, and dignity that St. Francis strives to provide. Through her selfless service, Ann finds joy in helping others and embodies the spirit of Franciscan partnership in all that she does.

Ann’s unwavering dedication and compassionate service make her a truly deserving recipient of the Franciscan Partnership Award and a treasured gift to the St. Francis Home.

02/20/2026

When the sun comes out and it hits 50°, you celebrate! Friedman Village Assisted Living residents kicked off the warmer weather with an ice cream social.

02/19/2026

St. Francis Home residents did a craft for Valentine's Day. They always enjoy making decorations to hang on their doors!

02/18/2026

02/17/2026

The residents at St. Francis Home had a great time at cardio drumming last week!

02/16/2026

Love was in the air during our Valentines party at St. Francis Home last week. Cindy Slee came and entertained us with her beautiful music. The residents drank strawberry floats. Each resident was given a Valentines balloon donated by Family Dollar.

02/15/2026

Please see the chapel schedule for this week.