Delano Herald Journal

Serving the communities of Delano, Loretto, Montrose, MN, and the surrounding area

Winsted woman receives award at St. Mary’s Care Center



WINSTED, MN – Brightening other people’s days is one of the things St. Mary’s Care Center employee Betty Lachermeier of rural Winsted does best.

“Betty makes a point – consistently – to stop and say ‘hi’ to everyone and chat. She reflects hospitality and stewardship through her sunny personality,” coworker Emily Rieck noted in a letter nominating Lachermeier for the 2016 Sister Claudia Living Legacy Award.

Others who nominated Lachermeier echoed this sentiment, highlighting her helpful attitude, and courtesy and respect for the people around her.

Lachermeier was presented with the Sr. Claudia award March 10, for her commitment to Benedictine Health System’s core values – hospitality, stewardship, respect, and justice.

“Betty makes a difference in our work environment,” coworker Michele Muller said. “She puts a smile on everyone’s face and heart when she is at work.”

Lachermeier has been employed at St. Mary’s in Winsted for 6.5 years. She works in the environmental services department, keeping residents’ rooms clean each day.

“The people at St. Mary’s are awesome,” Lachermeier said. “They make you feel like family. There’s a lot of good communication in the entire facility.”

Lachermeier considers herself “old school,” explaining that she just tries to treat people the way she wants to be treated. She’s known for always having a smile on her face, which she said “isn’t hard to do when you work with such good people.”

Despite her qualifications, Lachermeier was stunned to hear her name called as this year’s Sr. Claudia award recipient.

“I just felt tickled pink and honored that someone thought enough of me to nominate me,” she said.

When she’s not at work, Lachermeier enjoys spending time with Stan, her husband of 42 years, and their two adult daughters.

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