Giving spirit earns Holm WOW nod

The letters nominating Janel Holm to be honored as a Woman of Wisdom were filled with admiration, and some remarkable themes emerged; graceful, dedicated, faith-filled, courageous, and humble are a few that only begin to scratch the surface of this inspirational woman.

“Janel truly exemplifies the ideal role model whose contributions to this world and to our community have made a genuinely positive difference in the countless lives she has touched”, revealed Marianne Love and Helen Newton of their dear friend.

Patricia Thurston added, “Janel’s gentle spirit, friendly smile, and ready sense of humor make all who know her feel welcomed and comforted”.

Growing up in South Dakota on a farm formed a young girl into a woman who knew hard work and joy in accomplishments. Many of you may know Holm from her 34 years of dedication to Bonner General in obstetrics, medical surgery, and recovery room.

Her contributions and volunteer time in so many local groups, including the library; Love, Inc; quilting for World Relief; local food truck; and the Book Mobile provide insight into a selfless, giving woman.

Holm persevered through the years of her husband’s illness while her daughters were growing up and has been a true example of strength. Many have witnessed Janel’s strong faith throughout her life. Her five amazing daughters explained, “It is her strong faith in God that has sustained her during difficult times, allowed her to trust Him, and helped her to make many tough decisions in her life.”

Marianne Love and Helen Newton sum up this extraordinary 2017 Woman of Wisdom: “This unsung heroine goes about her life productively, without fanfare, gracefully meeting life’s challenges. She quietly contributes to this world in numerous humanitarian ways, never seeking nor expecting an ounce of recognition”.

The 2017 Women of Wisdom will be honored at a Gala Luncheon hosted by the Women Honoring Women Committee on Saturday, May 13, at 11:00 a.m. at Tango Café in the Columbia Bank Building. Contact Diane Stockton for reservations at 208-290-6362 or at stockton_diane@yahoo.com.

To be nominated for Woman of Wisdom, candidates must be 65 years or older. She demonstrates vision, collaboration, leadership, grace, courage, integrity and a love of learning. She shows a commitment to the Bonner County community and has had a positive impact on it. She is an inspiration to others and an example for future generations of women.

The 2017 Women Honoring Women committee members are: Kari Saccomanno, chair; Diane Arrants; Kathy Chambers; Kathy Conger; Barbara Eacret; Deanna Harris; Alana Hatcher; Betty Heffner; Julie Jurenka; Pat Lewis; Sally Lowry; Maribeth Lynch, Laurie Mattila, Jeralyn Mire; Marlene Rorke; Sandy Ross; Patty Schwartz; Joyce Smith; Diane Stockton; Kendall Stratton, Sally Transue and Linda Van Dellen.