Family Value
Family is the cornerstone of my life and service.
The bonds I formed with my family and the values learned from my parents have driven my desire to foster connections within my community. I remain grateful for those formative years, which instilled in me the importance of family and the spirit of service.
Importance of Family
Family is the cornerstone of my life and service. I am immensely blessed to have four children and eleven grandchildren, with my first great-grandchild arriving in December. My family’s values, experiences, and support greatly influence my commitment to community service and my desire to uplift others. Each day, I strive to embody the lessons of love, resilience, and compassion that my family has taught me.
Growing up in a small house with six siblings, I learned the importance of connection and mutual support. My childhood experiences have shaped my understanding of community, fostering a strong desire to give back and create supportive environments for others.
Family Stories
My family is an active part of my journey. Here are some highlights about my children and their contributions:
• Anna and Joe:
- My eldest daughter, Anna, and her husband Joe are parents to two wonderful children, Greg and Alexi. Greg is currently a manager for a housing repair company, showing his dedication to community service through his work. Alexi, a special education teacher, is engaged to be married next year, continuing our family’s commitment to education and care for others.
• Richard and Marige:
- My son Richard and his wife Marige are parents to three children. Isla is in high school, and Naomi is in junior high. AJ is still in elementary school. Their involvement in school activities and local volunteering efforts reflects our family value of giving back to the community.
• Jennie:
- My daughter Jennie has four energetic boys, including Ananthy, who is engaged and expecting my first great-grandchild in December! Austin is currently in college, while Connor and Dillon are both in high school, all embracing education and responsibility.
• Brenda and Jason:
- My youngest daughter Brenda, along with her husband Jason, live in Missouri with their two daughters, Izabel and Hailey. They are both engaged in their academics and have shown a commitment to their own community.
Our family gatherings are filled with laughter, joy, and shared experiences that reinforce our values. I cherish the times we come together to volunteer for community service events, extending our family’s legacy of helping others.
Personal Reflections
I often reflect on my own childhood experiences, having grown up in a crowded home with my siblings. Our small space taught us about teamwork, empathy, and resilience. We faced challenges together, whether it was walking to school miles away or navigating through tornado warnings in our home. One vivid memory is the time our home caught fire when one of my brothers accidentally ignited a smoldering couch. It was a frightening experience that also brought us closer together as we supported each other through it.
The bonds I formed with my family and the values learned from my parents have driven my desire to foster connections within my community. I remain grateful for those formative years, which instilled in me the importance of family and the spirit of service.