Nancy Mills, RN-BC, is a dedicated healthcare professional with an impressive career spanning 37 years in long-term care (LTC) and two decades in the Director of Health Service role at St. Luke Lutheran Home. Her story is one of unwavering commitment to the well-being of elderly individuals, underscored by her deep passion for this field.

Nancy's journey began in her hometown of Spencer, Iowa, where she graduated from Spencer High School. With a thirst for knowledge and a compassionate heart, she embarked on her nursing education at Rochester University, followed by specialized training at Iowa Lakes Community College. These formative years laid the foundation for her lifelong dedication to the field of nursing.

Over the years, Nancy has become a true expert in gerontology, earning her Board Certification in Gerontology seven years ago. This achievement reflects her commitment to staying at the forefront of her field, continuously expanding her knowledge and skills to better serve the elderly population.

Nancy and her husband, Jim, have chosen to make their home on a picturesque farm just outside of Webb, Iowa. Together, they have built a life rooted in the values of hard work and community. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Nancy finds joy and fulfillment in her role as a wife and mother to three daughters, as well as a doting grandmother to four grandchildren.

Nancy Mills is a testament to the impact one person can have when driven by a genuine passion for their work. Her 20-year tenure as the Director of Health Service at St. Luke Lutheran Home exemplifies her dedication to enhancing the quality of life for the elderly residents under her care. As she continues to advocate for and provide exceptional healthcare services to seniors, Nancy remains an inspiring figure in the field of long-term care, embodying the values of compassion, dedication, and expertise.

Justina joined the staff at St. Luke Homes & Services in 2021 and assumed the role of Controller in early 2025. In her position as Controller, Justina oversees the organization’s financial management, ensuring accuracy and transparency in all accounting processes. She is responsible for budgeting, financial reporting, resident billing, and many other aspects that are essential to maintaining financial stability and security for all residents in our care.

Justina is a certified bookkeeper and has a Bachelor of Science from Iowa State University and an Associate of Arts in both Business Management and Accounting from Iowa Lakes Community College. She is committed to continuing to learn and grow professionally, showcasing her dedication to her work.

Ken Nelson is a dedicated healthcare professional with an illustrious career spanning over three decades. Currently residing in Sutherland, Iowa, he is a loving husband to his wife, Wendy, and a proud father of five children, as well as a doting grandfather to four cherished grandchildren.

Ken's journey in healthcare began with his educational pursuit. He graduated from the University of South Dakota with a Bachelor's degree in Health Services Administration, equipping himself with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in the healthcare field.

With a passion for healthcare administration, Ken's career took him to various heights. In August 2021, he embarked on a new chapter in his professional life by joining St. Luke Homes & Services as the CEO/Administrator, where his expertise and leadership have been invaluable in steering the organization toward its mission of providing exceptional care and services.

Beyond the boardroom, Ken is a man of varied interests. He finds enjoyment in golf, sporting events, and the great outdoors. His love for farming and outdoor activities allows him to maintain a balanced and fulfilling life outside of his professional responsibilities.

Ken Nelson's life is a testament to his dedication to healthcare, leadership, and a commitment to family. His career in healthcare administration has positively impacted the lives of many, and his personal interests reflect a well-rounded individual who values both his work and his leisure time.

Kim joined the dedicated staff at St. Luke Homes & Services, Inc. in 1995, serving as the office manager and coordinator of human resources.

Her responsibilities include payroll and responding to inquiries directed towards the human resources department for the St. Luke campus.

Mary joined the dedicated staff at St. Luke Homes & Services, Inc. in April 1992. She served as a dietary aide at St. Luke Lutheran Home during high school, as well as a cook and assistant dietary director, before becoming St. Luke Homes & Services’ director of dietary services in April 2018.

The Spencer High School graduate is attending the University of North Dakota to earn her Certified Dietary Manager, Certified Food Protection Professional credentials.

In her spare time, Mary enjoys spending time with her husband, Matt, and their two children: Gage and Grace.

Amanda has been working in the Activities Department with St. Luke Lutheran Nursing Home since the fall of 2010.

She grew up in Spencer, Iowa. After graduating from Spencer High School in 2005, Amanda went onto Iowa Lakes Community College receiving her Associate of Arts degree. Amanda then transferred to Buena Vista University located in Storm Lake, Iowa, where she received a Business Management degree in 2009. In May 2010, Amanda took the Activities Coordinator course through Iowa Lakes Community College.

Amanda enjoys planning activities for the residents of St. Luke Lutheran Nursing Home, as well as the tenants of Riverview Terrace. Seeing the residents involved and having fun brings joy to Amanda's life.

In her spare time, Amanda likes scrapbooking, traveling, bike riding, exercising, and spending time with her husband.

Katie Chindund, the dedicated Social Service Director at St. Luke Lutheran Home since 2018, has devoted her life to improving the lives of the elderly and cherishing her family. Born and raised outside of Webb, Iowa, Katie has cultivated a deep passion for community service, particularly for the elderly population. From a young age, Katie exhibited a natural inclination towards helping others. This calling led her to pursue a career in social work. She attended Buena Vista University and graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work. In this role, she has been instrumental in enhancing the quality of life for the elderly residents by organizing various programs and that promote their mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Katie is known for her compassion, patience, and genuine care for the elderly. She goes above and beyond to ensure they feel valued, respected, and understood, creating a warm and welcoming environment at St. Luke Lutheran Home. Outside of her fulfilling professional career, Katie's heart lies with her family. She is happily married to Josh, and they are blessed with three wonderful boys. Katie finds immense joy in supporting her children's activities and spending quality time with her family.Apart from being a dedicated social worker and a loving family woman, Katie also has a variety of hobbies and interests. She appreciates the beauty of nature, often spending time outdoors, hiking, and exploring the scenic landscapes near her home. She also enjoys cooking, experimenting with new recipes, and creating delicious meals for her family.Katie Chindund's life is a testament to her dedication to improving the lives of the elderly and her unwavering love for her family. Her passion for social service and her commitment to creating a positive impact in her community is an inspiration to all. As she continues her journey, Katie remains a beacon of empathy and kindness, leaving a lasting legacy of love, compassion, and service.

I'm Dean Stein, proud graduate of Everly High Class of '82, and I've called Fostoria, Iowa, my home for many wonderful years. Alongside my amazing wife, Joni, we've built a beautiful life together.

Our family is the center of our universe. We're blessed with three incredible daughters, and the love just keeps multiplying with seven energetic grandkids and three adorable greatgrandkids. Their laughter and joy fill our home with warmth and happiness.

Professionally, I dedicated over two decades to maintenance work, ensuring things ran smoothly and efficiently. The satisfaction of a job well done is something I take pride in.

But life is about more than work; it's about enjoying the simple pleasures. Camping trips under the starry Iowa skies, fishing adventures on the tranquil lakes, and the excitement of football games and NASCAR races are some of my favorite pastimes. And, of course, nothing beats attending our grandkids' events -from school plays to soccer games - those are moments we cherish.

I'm looking forward to the adventures that each new day brings and the opportunity to make lasting memories with my family and friends.

Becky joined the dedicated staff at St. Luke in December 1985, starting in the House-keeping department. She became the department supervisor in July of 2007 and manages a dedicated staff that provides services to both the Nursing Home and the Highlands facility.

Becky finds her job at St. Luke Homes & Services very rewarding and enjoys both the award winning team environment while providing outstanding services to all residents. 

Amber Wittrock, RN, BSN, RAC-CT is a dedicated healthcare professional with roots in the serene community of Spencer, Iowa. Her remarkable journey in the healthcare field reflects her unwavering commitment to patent care and her deep-seated passion for making a positive impact.

Amber embarked on her educational journey at Iowa Lakes Community College, where she began her career as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). Her experiences as a CNA instilled in her a strong sense of compassion and a desire to help those in need.

Her dedication to her education led her to attain an Associates Degree in Nursing from Iowa Lakes Community College and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree from Chamberlain University, a testament to her academic excellence and her commitment to furthering her knowledge and skills in the healthcare field.

Amber's professional journey commenced as an RN (Registered Nurse), where she brought her compassion and dedication to the forefront in providing exceptional patient care. She then worked her way up the healthcare ladder, becoming an MDS Coordinator and Nursing Supervisor, where her expertise in patient care and healthcare management shone brightly.

Beyond her professional achievements, Amber is a loving mother to two wonderful children, I aylen and Mycah, and a supportive partner. Her family and loved ones are her anchor and her source of inspiration.

Amber Wittrock's journey exemplifies the power of hard work, dedication, and a genuine commitment to the well-being of others. Her educational background at Iowa Lakes Community College laid the foundation for her successful career in the healthcare field, and her devotion to her family and loved ones continues to be a driving force in her life.

Joni Stein is a dedicated and experienced Registered Nurse (RN) who has spent over three decades in the healthcare field, making a positive impact on the lives of countless individuals. Her journey in healthcare began in 1979 when she graduated from Gretna High School in Gretna, Nebraska. Joni's passion for nursing led her to pursue higher education, and in 1993, she earned her associate degree in Nursing from Iowa Lakes Community College.

With a strong foundation in nursing, Joni has continually advanced her career, and she currently serves as the Assistant Director of Nursing (ADON) at St. Luke Nursing Home. Her extensive experience and expertise have allowed her to excel in various areas of healthcare, including MDS (Minimum Data Set), Infection Control, and QAPI (Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement).

Joni's commitment to her profession is matched only by her dedication to her family and community. She resides in Fostoria, Iowa, with her loving husband, Dean. Together, they have raised three daughters and are proud grandparents to seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Outside of her demanding career in healthcare, Joni has a rich and fulfilling personal life. She enjoys the simple pleasures of camping and fishing, finding solace in nature. Her creative side shines through her talent for crocheting, and she's an avid reader, constantly seeking new adventures through books. A cornerstone of Joni's life is supporting her family, and she can often be found at her grandchildren's events, sharing in their accomplishments and joys.

In the heart of it all, Joni treasures spending quality time with family and friends. Her nurturing spirit, combined with her wealth of knowledge and experience, makes her an indispensable figure in both the healthcare field and her personal relationships.

I am the Director at Riverview Terrace Assisted Living.

With a profound dedication to compassionate care and a background in sales and service, I have found my true calling in the healthcare field, particularly in Assisted Living. For me, assisting and caring for individuals in need of support is not just a profession; it's a deeply rewarding vocation.

In my career, I have honed exceptional communication and interpersonal skills. Interacting with residents and their families requires more than just medical expertise: it necessitates empathy, patience and an unwavering commitment to addressing tenants needs and concerns.  These skills are invaluable in the healthcare field, especially when engaging with residents and their families. I understand the importance of being empathetic, patient, and attentive to the needs and concerns of those under my care.

Outside of my professional life, my heart lies with my family. I am a proud parent of three wonderful children and a grandparent to four lovely grandchildren. The joy and support they bring into my life inspire and motivate me in my work in the healthcare industry. I firmly believe in the significance of family bonds and the profound responsibility of providing the best care to those who are an integral part of someone's family.

To maintain a healthy work-life balance, I indulge in the serenity of nature and water. Kayaking and boating activities provide me with the much-needed relaxation and rejuvenation, which are vital in the demanding field of healthcare.

In essence, my background and interests have perfectly aligned to create a fulfilling career in Assisted Living and the broader healthcare field.

Kellie Lowe's journey is one marked by a dedication to community and a passion for service. In May 2022, she took on the role of managing the Highlands and South Ridge Apartments at St Luke Homes and Services, bringing with her a wealth of experience and a genuine love for helping others.

Before her venture into the realm of property management, Kellie spent a decade as the administrative assistant at Lincoln Elementary School. Her time there was defined by the joy of working with children, families, and staff, creating a close-knit community within the school walls. Her enthusiasm for serving people has been a constant thread in her professional life.

Kellie's move to Highlands was driven by a desire to continue that spirit of service in a new capacity. She finds great fulfillment in assisting new homeowners as they make the decision to embrace Highlands as their new home. Her warm and welcoming nature makes her an ideal guide for those navigating the exciting journey of finding a place to call their own.

Beyond her professional life, Kellie is a devoted mother of two daughters who have been actively involved in sports. As a proud Spencer Tiger fan, she cheers on her daughters and the team with unwavering enthusiasm. Her love for the outdoors is evident in her hobbies, which include camping and canoeing, often in the company of her two dogs and one cat. There's something magical about the crackling of campfires that Kellie finds irresistible.

Family and friends hold a special place in Kellie's heart, and her connection with the community is further emphasized by her involvement in the Hope Reformed Church. She also dedicates time to serving members at the local golf and country club, fostering a sense of camaraderie and community spirit.

Kellie's commitment to community service extends to her role as a long-time member of the Avenue of Flags in Spencer, Iowa. Her dedication to volunteering and her active participation in community initiatives showcase her deep-rooted belief in giving back.

A walk enthusiast, Kellie finds solace in the simple pleasure of strolling, allowing her to appreciate the beauty of the world around her. Her passion for serving others, whether it be in her professional capacity or through her various community engagements, reflects a life well-lived in the service of others. Kellie Lowe is not just a property manager; she is a beacon of warmth, community, and a testament to the power of genuine, compassionate service.

Empowering Lives through Education and Healthcare

Laura Manwarren is a dedicated wife, loving mother of three children aged 24, 22, and 13, and a passionate advocate for education and healthcare. Her journey in the fields of education and healthcare began at the age of 15. While she grew up in the charming town of Emmetsburg, she has found her true sense of home and community in Spencer.

Professional Experience: Laura has been a devoted member of the healthcare community for over two decades, having been employed at St. Luke's since October 1999. Throughout her extensive tenure at St. Luke's, she has consistently demonstrated a commitment to excellence in nursing scheduling, appointment scheduling, and medical records, ensuring that patients receive the highest quality care.

Educational and Certification Achievements: Laura's commitment to healthcare and education is exemplified by her impressive academic journey. She obtained her Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification in 1996, marking the beginning of her formal training in healthcare. In 2001, she furthered her education by earning certification as a Certified Medication Aide (CMA), expanding her capabilities in patient care and medication management. In 2021, she achieved a significant milestone by completing her Associate of Arts degree, further enhancing her knowledge and skills in the field.

Family Life and Interests: In addition to her professional pursuits, Laura cherishes her roles as a wife and mother. Her three children, aged 24, 22, and 13, are a testament to her ability to balance a successful career with a warm and loving family life. She is also the proud grandmother of a delightful grandson and has two wonderful son-in-laws who have become an integral part of her extended family.

Beyond her professional and family life, Laura has a passion for camping in the great outdoors and is an enthusiastic member of the local car club "Old Iron Company." She also enjoys the thrill of running and working out, staying active and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Additionally, she finds solace in the world of books, with a deep love for reading, which allows her to explore new worlds and expand her knowledge.

Core Values: With a deep commitment to equality, inclusivity, and the power of knowledge, Laura has instilled these values not only in her work but also in her family life. She believes that access to quality education and healthcare are essential for personal growth and the well-being of her loved ones, including her grandson and son-in-laws.

Future Goals: Laura's future goals include continuing to break down barriers in education and healthcare, ensuring that everyone, including her family and the patients she serves, has the opportunity to lead healthy, fulfilling lives. She envisions a world where education and healthcare work hand in hand to empower individuals and communities, including her own cherished family.