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.
Happy birthday Diane. And happy retirement.
Congratulations on your retirement. We are friends with Darin and Louis . Your journey of service makes our hearts sing! May you enjoy the new part of your journey and may God’s Blessings continue to fill your loving spirit and life. Much love to you .
Sae and Marge WindRiver
Uncle Dwayne your smiling face will be missed. I was a volunteer in Ark City hospital and it is a very rewarding job. Love you. Larry and Rose💖
Duane is a rare gem because of his respect and care for others. He is a giver of love and kindness to others. Thank you, Duane, for giving of yourself and making Hutchinson a better place to live.
Your words resonate with me deeply.
Happy 90th, Mr. Anstine! I think of you often. I remember the time in 1984, when you called Curtis Harper, “Black Lightning” and he responded by calling you “White Lightning”. He later got you a blue tshirt with a white lightning bolt on it. You said “I love it!” And you put it on immediately. Your class was amazing and we all felt your love for teaching and your students. It was an honor to be in your class. God bless you, Sir! — Kurt Likins (Kennedy)
I have spent 35 years in Bible Teaching ministry and eventually learned Spanish, served in Spanish ministry and taught Spanish for 7 years in a Christian school in the Pensacola Fl area. Married 35 years, 3 grown children and 1 grandson)
Your commitment to excellence is commendable.
Your commitment to excellence is admirable.
Your content adds value to my day.
Your posts are a pleasure to read.
I have been fortunate to be graced with Duane’s smile in more then one place. From the healthcare family, to opening the door on Sunday morning, and as fellow classmates in the last Leadership Hutch Class in 2003. Duane is an inspiration to the young and old, and has modeled how to serve with dignity.