Celebrating Duane Anstine’s 25 Years of Volunteer Service

Here at Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System (HRHS), caring for our community is at the
heart of everything we do. We believe in actively engaging with our community, and one of the
ways we achieve this is through our dedicated volunteer team. Among them is Duane Anstine,
whose remarkable journey with HRHS began in 1999.

Duane’s story is one of dedication and kindness. Following a 20-year career as an English
teacher at Liberty Junior High School, Duane embraced retirement with a desire to remain active
and engaged. “I knew I wanted something to keep me busy after retiring,” Duane reflects.
His decision to join our volunteer team at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center has benefited the
hospital immensely. Initially assisting wheelchair-bound patients, Duane found joy in connecting
with individuals and families during their hospital visits. “I loved being able to chat with patients
and their loved ones,” Duane shares warmly. Anyone who has had the pleasure of meeting
Duane, as a patient, family, or team member has felt his kindness and compassion.

Even during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Duane’s spirit remained undaunted.
Though temporarily unable to volunteer, he eagerly returned when our volunteer programs
resumed. This time, Duane took on the role of a receptionist in the ICU waiting room, offering
comfort and assistance to every person he encountered; patient or family.

During his 25 plus years of volunteering, Duane not only reunited with former students but also
became a cherished presence at HRMC, brightening countless days with his kindness and joy. As
he celebrates his 90th birthday, Duane has decided to retire from volunteering, marking the end
of an era filled with compassion and service.

In his well-deserved retirement, Duane plans to enjoy precious moments with family, indulge his
passion for tickling the keys on the piano, and continue volunteering as a greeter at Trinity
United Methodist Church. His legacy of generosity and community spirit will continue to inspire
us all at HRHS.

We extend our deepest gratitude to Duane Anstine for his servant heart and wish him the very
best in this new chapter of life. His dedication exemplifies the spirit of compassion that defines
our hospital’s mission.