Falls Memorial Hospital names Auxilian of the Year. Laverne Geer honored for her years of service and commitment to the hospital. International Falls, MN. (May 10, 2009) — Luverne Geer was named Auxilian of the Year at the group’s annual appreciation luncheon April 24. Geer was nominated by fellow Auxilian Signe Hardwig, who wrote, “Luverne joined the Falls Memorial Hospital Auxiliary in 1991 and soon became president with all its obligations. She also supervised the blood bank drive every year and worked on her scheduled day each week in the gift shop, working the bothersome cash register and greeting customers with her friendly attitude and smile. When her daughter, Mary, became manager of the gift shop, she put in extra time helping her, all the while volunteering elsewhere in the community. “This busy woman’s life changed suddenly when she suffered a stroke in 2007 which left her unable to do her daily activities. With strong determination, she started her therapy program. The death of Luverne’s husband in 2008 was a sad blow to the family. In spite of all the trials in her life, Luverne was determined to volunteer again. “Luverne was welcomed warmly when she returned in 2008. I nominate Luverne Geer for 2009 Auxilian of the Year for her spirit of friendship, always looking on the bright side, accepting life, but still trying to improve, and her never-give-up attitude. I nominate Luverne Geer for her dedication to the Auxiliary; she is to be admired.” Also at the event, the Auxiliary presented Bonnie Erickson, FMH Interim CEO, with a gift of $4,700 to benefit the hospital. “It is a privilege to have such a dedicated Auxiliary part of the FMH family,” says Erickson. “The volunteers bring a smile to everyone they encounter: employees, visitors and patients.”