Area secretary named outstanding older worker

Ruth Illers, an administrative secretary at SEMO Area Agency on Aging, was recently named a regional winner in the Missouri's Outstanding Older Worker Contest.

According to public information director Ruth Dockins and the staff of SEMO Area Agency on Aging, who nominated Illers, one of Illers' outstanding assets is her ability to fulfill requests with a smile.

"Her can-do attitude is an inspiration to everyone," Dockins said.

Illers' talents go beyond being the fastest typist in the office, handling reservations and juggling computer software. A second career in carpentry may be on the horizon with her hand tool expertise that manifests itself in doing small repairs around the office.

The staff goes to her when it comes to learning how to operate new office machinery or fix the old.

They also go to her when they need supplies ordered, fund-raisers created and managed, gifts purchased, wrapped and delivered.

"We really miss Ruth when she is on vacation," Dockins said. "Without her we have difficulty locating stored office supplies, searching for mailing addresses, finding anticipated arrival dates of ordered items and knowing the exact date a mailing was sent. The amazing truth is that Ruth keeps most of this information stored on the personal computer in her head."

Nutrition project director Lana Johnson said, "She keeps our office running smoothly... with a sureness that makes the entire staff feel like a team. She makes each of us feel important and never steals the spotlight."

Illers, 80, said winning the award was a surprise. She said, "I feel as good as I did at 60. Everything works and nothing hurts. I don't know what I'd do at home."

Gardening, perhaps -- she also shares her talents as a master gardener with the agency as needed.

"When someone needs a flower arrangement created, a room decorated or impromptu entertainment, Ruth handles the matter," Dockins said. "She whips up a flower arrangement in a matter of minutes and provides the flowers from her own garden. She even plays the piano as entertainment for agency programs."

cpagano@semissourian.com

335-6611, extension 133