Roger and Sue Blumreich volunteer at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Shawano.
Roger was born in Tigerton and graduated from Tigerton High School. He worked at Farm and Home in Shawano and then Warvel Products in Gillett for 27 years. He is currently in retail sales at Torborg’s Lumber in Shawano.
Sue was also born in Tigerton and graduated from Tigerton High School. She attended college before marrying Roger. After having three children, she went back to school, earning a bachelor’s degree from Bellin College of Nursing. She has been a registered nurse at Shawano Medical Center for 22 years in the medical/surgical department.
Roger and Sue, who live in the town of Wescott, have been married 34 years and also have a grandson. Roger enjoys hunting and fishing. Sue likes to read and garden. Together they go camping and hiking.
Q How do you help at Sacred Heart?
A Roger: “I’ve been a member for 24 years. I started as an usher and Eucharistic minister and am now an usher. I’m on the building and grounds committee. We meet once a month to discuss things that need to be fixed and bring it to the attention of someone. We anticipate and oversee the maintenance of the church, school and parish offices. Once a year we do a walk-through of everything. We do a spring and fall cleanup of the grounds.”
Sue: “I have belonged to Sacred Heart for 34 years. We raised our three children who are now alums of Sacred Heart School. I’ve been a Eucharistic minister for over 20 years. I belong to the book club of the parish. It’s a time to meet with other women. We meet every week. I can’t always make it but go when I can. I participate in the Emmaus minister. I keep my eye on the outdoor plants and water and weed when necessary.”
Q How do you help at the church picnic?
A Roger: ”I usually work the food stand. Sometimes I help set up and take down.”
Sue: ”I work in the food stand when I can and I bake for the bake sale. It’s busy in the food stand, but you’re with parish members and get to meet new people. Every year we work, we always meet new people. It’s always hot, but it always feels nice to get together with parish families. And it’s nice to network with people from other churches.”
Q Why do you volunteer?
A Roger: ”It’s enjoyable to come and meet new people and help the church. It makes you feel good.”
Sue: “There are many different volunteer opportunities that can fit your lifestyle and time commitment. I enjoy giving back to the church. Our life has been blessed, and I like to give back.”
