Kottschade honored for volunteer work

Christina Killion Valdez

Nov. 5, 2009 (McClatchy-Tribune Regional News delivered by Newstex) -- Bonnie Kottschade of Rochester warns her friends: "If you don't want to become more active, don't retire."

Since retiring after 37 years as a public health and school nurse, Kottschade's to-do list has grown exponentially. Yet it's what she's already done and her continued dedication and service to the community that earned her the Rochester Exchange Club's Book of Golden Deeds award, which was presented Wednesday at the Rochester International Event Center.

Kottschade was honored as the 54th recipient of the award, which recognizes individuals for unselfish, personal service rather than their participation in organized community affairs.

Surprised to hear her long list of accomplishments read off, Kottschade said, "It just kind of happens."

In her retirement, Kottschade said, she decided to follow her interest helping children and began tutoring at The Reading Center, Dyslexia Institute of Minnesota.

"It's a wonderful feeling helping a child who is failing and see them succeed," she said.

Honoring veterans

Kottschade also got more active in the Daughters of the American Revolution, serving as a state officer and local president, which led to honoring the service of veterans.

She and her husband, Frank, were responsible for the creation and installation of the medic/nurse statue behind the Wall of Remembrance at the Soldiers Field Veterans Memorial to honor the service of the medical professional. They also led the Field of Flags initiative in 2006 during which 2,367 flags were set up, one for each name on the wall. The effort raised several thousands of dollars for the Reading Center.

Kottschade has also been instrumental in the publication of the Veterans Day special section in the Post-Bulletin for several years, including the edition in today's paper.

"It's just never ending," Kottschade said. Find out why in Thursday's print edition.

Newstex ID: KRTB-0171-39471253