Gillett volunteer to be honored

GILLETT — Growing up in a humble family of 10 on a small farm just outside of Gillett helped form a solid background of selflessness for Cora Rotter-Boerst. Family values were at the roots that have led to a lifetime of volunteerism.

Rotter-Boerst is the guest of honor at the upcoming Gillett Civic Club/Business Association Valentine’s Party, scheduled for 6 p.m. Feb. 8 at the Main Event, 206 Lemke St., Cecil.

She is the great-granddaughter of Rodney Gillett, man the city of Gillett is named after, and was a part of the first-ever EMT class in Wisconsin. Rotter-Boerst remembers volunteering for the Gillett Ambulance when they did not even have an ambulance; they started out by transporting in their personal vehicles. She remembers it being a “big deal” to actually get an ambulance vehicle.

Volunteering for the city, Oconto County, Lions Club, Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, all became part of her life. Rotter-Boerst is probably most known for all her work with the Red Cross and area blood drives; she jokingly says that she is sometimes known as the “vampire lady.” She has been working with the Red Cross for more than 60 years, with the last 22 years heading up the drive.

Tickets to the Valentine’s Party include dinner, roses for the ladies, games, prizes, live music, and the recognition of Cora Rotter-Boerst. They can be purchased at the Gillett School District Office, or call Todd Carlson of the Civic Club at 715-853-1450 for more information.