Southeast Hospice honors volunteers for their service

Volunteers with Southeast Hospice, a service of Southeast Missouri Hospital, were honored for their service to the program at the annual Southeast Hospice Awards Banquet held by the hospital in November.

The Gabriel Award, the top award for Hospice volunteers, was given to Ann Amelunke and Frank Crites for representing the Southeast Hospice philosophy to patients, their families and the community.

Amelunke and Crites have both recorded more than 300 service hours since they began volunteering in mid-2003.

In addition to working with patients, Amelunke also helps staff Careline phones, makes bereavement cards and takes "on call" hours.

Crites works with patients, takes "on call" hours and assists with office duties.

Other awards included the Cherub Award presented to Jeanne Crites for her ongoing support of Southeast Hospice by volunteering in the office. Bill Mercer, who was recognized for his dedication to hospice patients and their families, received the Guardian Angel award. Service milestone pins were awarded to Charlette Abernathy, Jo Dunbar and Dixie Hopkins for 15 years of service. Receiving 10-year pins were Sheila Martens, Dorthy Dees and Sherron Alexander. Volunteers contributing more than 100 service hours over the past year were Verna Cordia, Marla Cyprett, Larry Hamilton, Jane Hargraves, Dixie Hopkins, Bill Lindsay, Marge Bauerle, Bill Mercer and Carolyn Pickens.

Pearla Smith, coordinator of volunteers with Southeast Hospice, said over the past year volunteers have contributed 3,345 hours of service.