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Thatcher to retire as Marsh trustee

Van Wert independent/Marsh Foundation information

Gerald Thatcher is retiring as a Marsh Foundation trustee after more than 11 years of service. Thatcher, who has served as a trustee since July 2002, will officially retire December 31.

Gerald Thatcher
Gerald Thatcher

Thatcher said that it has been an honor and a rewarding experience to serve as a Marsh Foundation trustee. Thatcher’s ties to The Marsh run deep: his father was employed by The Marsh for more than 50 years, and often as a boy, Thatcher would come and help on the farm. “I’m sure my parents would be very pleased that I was able to serve as a trustee,” he said.

Thatcher said he is proud of his time as trustee and is excited about the growth that has been seen and what is in store for the future. “It has given me tremendous satisfaction to be able to help children in need. He also gives credit to the other trustees and Marsh staff. “We have a great team,” he said.

“I have the highest respect for all of the people who give of themselves daily to help these kids in need; sometimes I don’t know how they do it,” Thatcher acknowledged. “I love to hear stories of the kids who have left and are doing well — those are the most rewarding moments.”

Thatcher will be missed by the entire Marsh Foundation family. Kim Mullins, executive director of child and family services, has especially appreciated Thatcher’s dedication.

“It has been a pleasure serving as director under Mr. Thatcher; I’ve appreciated his leadership and support very much,” she said. “His wisdom has guided us through many challenging situations and his contributions have been numerous. He will be greatly missed.”

Thatcher has decided that it is time to reduce his many responsibilities. He and his wife, Esther, have plans to travel and spend more time with their family.

Serving children and families since 1922, The Marsh Foundation is a not-for-profit children’s services agency that provides behavioral treatment in a variety of settings. Services include group homes, treatment and family foster care, an intensive treatment program and independent living. Located in Van Wert, the organization’s group homes are licensed for up to 30 children ages 7-17, offers an on-campus school for grades 2-12 and provides a variety of clinical services to group home residents, foster children and community members.

The mission of The Marsh Foundation is to inspire hope, to teach and to care for children and families. For more information about The Marsh, visit www.marshfoundation.org.

POSTED: 10/18/13 at 7:36 am. FILED UNDER: News