Page 35 - Leisure Living Holiday 2015

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Holiday 2015 LeisureLiving | 35
animals. Also I missed the comradery of an office. It’s kind of fun to have that again. I get a lot out of being there.” She says volunteering keeps her involved and fulfills a desire to be active. “I’m as busy as I care to be.”
In addition to her work with the humane soci- ety, Hauke used to volunteer at a nursing home near her home in Huron, Ohio. “I would just go and visit with people. I would try to brighten their day.” She also works with a 95 year old woman part time, to help that woman with various needs. The humane society and caring for a single individual took up enough of her time that she chose to stop volunteering at the nursing home. “Something had to give,” Hauke explained.
She said she is still retired and doesn’t want anything she does to start to feel like a job. She says giving back, in ways she can, makes her feel good. “My sons know that I get a lot out of volun- teering. I encourage them to volunteer as well, but when you work full time and have a family and kids, it’s not as easy. Doing it when you’ve retired is a lot easier.”
She encourages others who are retired to vol- unteer. “I would tell them to find something they are passionate about. Find something they care about. That makes it fun and fulfilling.”
Service As A Memorial JANEANE AND TONY CIPITI By Sharon Sweeda
When I think of the perfect volunteers, Janeane and Tony Cipiti immediately come to mind. Their humble attitude and devotion to Port Clinton is clearly seen in the gorgeous landscape circle locat- ed at the intersection of Jefferson Street and Perry Street in Erie Dearie Park. Each morning no matter hot sun, gusty winds, or sleeting rain, you will see them working tirelessly to maintain the beautiful area. Port Clinton is truly lucky to have this amaz- ing couple. Thank you for all you do!
Laura Slachter, former President, Port Clinton Area Chamber of Commerce
Our next honorees are Tony and Janeane Cipiti who have lived their lives in Port Clinton. It was Janeane Cipiti’s former employment with Dr. James Rhiel that lead them to a community project that none could have predicted. Dr. Rhiel and his
wife, Pricilla were genuine soul mates and when Pricilla passed several years prior to his passing, Janeane recognized the hole it left in the doctor’s heart. As a result, she suggested to Dr. Rhiel that he create a legacy by donating money to The Ottawa County Community Foundation.
With support from the Foundation and oth- ers, the idea to plant gardens “blossomed”. Dr. Rhiel eventually passed before seeing the plan evolve into the beautifully landscaped area in Water Works Park, but many enjoy the fruits of his donation, year round. In the summer it is amassed with seasonal plantings while in the Christmas season it abounds with lights.
“All of the Christmas lights would not be pos- sible without the gals who help,” praises Janeane. “Beth Aaron, Laura Engler and Suzanne Richards do a terrific job!”
The project has been a community effort. Maintaining it is a big job that requires help from many, though Janeane Cipiti and husband, Tony have been hands on throughout the formation and coordination. Again, she emphasizes that their success is a result of having a good crew whose hearts are in their service.
It is with heavy heart that Janeane tells of Dr. Rhiel’s passing, as well as that of Bob Armbruster who was also instrumental, but passed prior to seeing the fruit of his labor.
“We wanted to be sure to include Bob, so we placed his funeral card under the statue to com- memorate him and the contribution he made. We think of them both when we work in the park!”
Janeane & Tony Cipiti