MEMORIAL PROJECT HONORS MOELLER

He was known as a kind and caring man with the ability to “light up a room” and get things done.  By all accounts, Del Moeller was a volunteer that gave of himself in ways that few others have, to multiple organizations.  Many have said that his passing on February 26, left a void in the volunteer community.  Now, a new project in his memory seeks to honor his various contributions along with his passions, and area residents are able to participate in the proposed memorial.

He was known as a kind and caring man with the ability to “light up a room” and get things done.  By all accounts, Del Moeller was a volunteer that gave of himself in ways that few others have, to multiple organizations.  Many have said that his passing on February 26, left a void in the volunteer community.  Now, a new project in his memory seeks to honor his various contributions along with his passions, and area residents are able to participate in the proposed memorial.

According to David Fry, Director of the Hospital Foundation, “Del Moeller was a consummate, model volunteer, the type of volunteer that organizations wish they could clone.  In fact, I told him that several times.”  Fry continued, “When a request for volunteers would be made at a meeting, the room would become strangely quiet.  However, you could count on Del to break that silence and share which piece of the task he could pick-up, and most importantly he’d follow through.”   

It’s obvious he had done that quite often where the Hospital was concerned.  In addition to serving on the Hospital Board for eight years in the 1980’s, Del had recently completed a six- year term on the Board of the Hospital Foundation and served as the Board President in 2009-2010.  He also served as the chair, or co-chair of all five of the Hospital Foundation’s golf outings and was serving as co-chair of this year’s gala event, in addition to other assistance that he’d provided the group.

“Del was definitely passionate about our Hospital and the important work it does,” Fry said.  “He saw the value first hand and felt strongly that it deserved the support of the community.  He was willing to dedicate his time and energy to help advance the programs and services.  We were always humbled and grateful to have him help us in so many ways.  His spirit and determination are sadly missed.”

According to Fry, several projects were considered to honor Moeller’s volunteer contributions but one seemed to be most appropriate, having a personal connection.  “Another of Del’s passions was the Optimist Club and its ‘Avenue of Flags’ and when combined with his patriotism and concern, the idea of raising funds for a new flagpole and small healing garden seemed the best way to remember Del and help others.”

The project would require several thousand dollars to complete but nearly $1,000 in individual memorial contributions have already been received.  Others that would find this an appropriate way to honor his memory may make their checks payable to the Hospital Foundation and note “Del Moeller Memorial” in the check’s memo.  They can be mailed to the Hospital Foundation at 720 N. Lincoln, and notification will be provided to his family.

“When tragic situations such as these arise, we’re faced with difficult paths in the midst of grief,” Fry said.  “Our hope is to channel the pain of a loss into a promising message, having a visible impact on patients and visitors for years to come.  Our Board and Del’s family have agreed that the project mirrors the positive spirit and selfless giving that Del exemplified in his life.”