By: Barbara Tuckner

Every year, the Little Sisters of the Poor in St. Paul would make the trek to Warner’s Stellian during the holidays, and my uncle, Jim Warner would reward the sisters with some libations, food, and money to support their ministry. Even then, the family knew unequivocally how important it was to support those in need with a home for a lifetime. “He took the greatest joy in giving,” says my cousin Duffy (Jeffrey Warner) now president of the company, “He was absolutely giddy in his giving, and talks about the nuns’ visits still to this day.”

Sisters, Barb and Janet Tuckner

One can almost hear Uncle Jim’s voice in the annual hosting of the nuns while his many children look on in admiration and pride. More than likely, Uncle Jim shrugged off the nun’s accolades and proudly delivered a tasteful Catholic vs. Protestant joke. Of course, the Catholics always came out on top, and the nuns likely laughed heartily amongst all the gleaming, new appliances. The Little Sisters of the Poor continue their ministry with a promise to God to consecrate themselves totally to the service of the elderly poor. To this day, Warner’s Stellian supports them on their mission.

Warner’s Stellian also generously supports Hammer Residences. Uncle Jim and Aunt Nonie have yielded gifts to Hammer that extend the length of the eleven family member clan. In addition to private family donations, Warner’s Stellian has sponsored the Reach for Ralph event for the past several years, contributing many coveted items to the silent auction. Additionally, their attendance at the event to bid on sweet trips, outings, and private chef parties, adds tremendously to an evening that drips with happiness and inspiration.

Left to Right: Nancy Timp, Janet Tuckner, Barb Tuckner, Peter Tuckner, Kathy Wallraff, Jack Tuckner, Jean Modjeski. Not pictured: Chris Porcelli, Mary Ongstad, and Paul Tuckner

To see this generosity extended to Hammer warms my heart beyond words and has my sister Janet, served by Hammer in the Avana Apartments, in full brag mode throughout the year. Indeed, it has the entire Tuckner clan in full brag mode as well.

It is with gratitude and love that I thank Uncle Jim, Aunt Nonie, and all their children for showing up so generously within the Hammer community. Long may you and your business thrive and may your children and grandchildren also be blessed with the joys that come with giving.

Fondly, Barb

Barbara Tuckner is the Immediate Past President for the Hammer Board of Directors. Her father, Jerry Tuckner served on Hammer’s Board and the Finance Committee for too many years to count.

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CEO of Coldwell Banker Burnet, Joe Reis and wife Kathy

The company mission statement includes the language: Positive Experiences for our Customers and Communities. With community support in mind, the company created the Coldwell Banker Burnet Foundation to support housing-related needs of people at all stages of life in the communities served. For the past several years, Coldwell Banker Burnet Foundation has been the presenting sponsor of Hammer’s signature fundraising event, Reach for Ralph.

“Because we live and work in the community, we give back and support organizations that help those in need, like Hammer,” said Coldwell Banker Burnet CEO and longtime Hammer volunteer, Joe Reis.

Joe and his wife Kathy began volunteering for Hammer Residences more than 25 years ago through their church, Holy Name of Jesus in Medina. In 2010, Joe joined Hammer’s Board of Directors building on the relationships he developed with the people served by Hammer, who he drove to church so many Sunday mornings. Those precious relationships deepened during worship and fellowship, guiding his and Kathy’s commitment to Hammer.

“We believe in Hammer’s mission to help those we serve live life to the fullest, respecting their abilities,” said Joe and Kathy. “We truly believe we have received more than we have given.”

Joe, Kathy, and Don

One special friend was Don Rudd, who came to live at Hammer as a child and was supported for 41 years before he passed away at the age of 55. Joe recalls their special relationship fondly. “Our family learned from Don’s positive attitude, the way he approached people with such exuberance. After mass, Don greeted many with ‘Good to see you, how are you?’ Whatever their response, he always responded, ‘I AGREE’. He was such a joy to be around. At Don’s memorial service, his sister Mindy remembered the gifts he brought to her life. She said that for so many years, she thought she was helping and teaching Don. In the end, she realized it was he who was teaching her and so many others. As I listened to her, I thought, I AGREE!”

Joe, Karen, and staff in NYC

Another special friend is Karen Thorud, a talented singer and performer who has appeared in numerous productions at the Interact Center for the Visual and Performing Arts. She lives in a Hammer apartment in Crystal. Karen always dreamed of traveling to New York City. Joe and Kathy learned about Karen’s dream and made a personal commitment to make her dream come true. “During her trip to NYC, she had a chance to try out at the Apollo Theater, attend Mama Mia on Broadway and do lots of sightseeing. Karen shared the details of her trip with us with such infectious joy. She definitely made us feel like we had made a big difference in her life.”

“We are very proud of Joe for going above and beyond in volunteering in the community,” said Robin Peterson, president of Coldwell Banker Burnet. “He is a fine example of how our leaders and employees value service and are committed to giving back.”

Join us at Reach for Ralph, Hammer’s annual summer benefit on Thursday, July 14th.
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