Meet Wilma Bodle, our April Resident of the Month! Wilma was born and raised in Cincinnati, Ohio, and has called Traditions at North Bend home for 1 year and 4 months.
When asked why she chose North Bend as her new home, Wilma stated, “My son toured Traditions at North Bend and picked this lovely community for me.”
Wilma was married to her beloved James for 45 years; he passed away 18 years ago. When asked about James, she smiled shyly and said, “Something that you may not know is that my husband and I were Ham Radio operators; he was WKC8Cq, and I was WKC8Cqr.”
Wilma has 6 grandchildren and several great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren.
“My son, Jim, teaches at Mount St. Joseph University in Cincinnati. I am so proud of him! He has literally been in school since he was 5 years old… no joking! Jim also sings in the choir and plays the bells at his church. He will also play the organ, piano or preach if needed. My son, George, and his family, live outside of Ohio.”
She said, “My son-in-law, Jerry, is a very special man in my life. He is a very loving and caring person. He works for the Cincinnati Reds and the YMCA!”
Wilma had 2 brothers, William, and Wayne.
“We were all W’s after my father, William. In fact, my nickname is Willie. When someone would call our home, we had to ask if they wanted the father, son, or daughter,” chuckled Wilma.
Before retiring, Wilma worked at Grace Lutheran Church and School for 10 years. She also worked for 35 years at the First Baptist Church of Dent, which is now known as Beacon of Christ Church.
When we asked Wilma if she had any hidden talents, she said, “I love to dance! Henry, a fellow resident, and I are going to get together and dance… that is when we both can stand.”
Wilma loves crocheting and participating in crafts and Bingo at North Bend in her free time. She also would love to learn to knit.
“I also really enjoy volunteering in the North Bend dining room by folding napkins. I fold between 100 to 400 napkins a day!” It is so enjoyable to work with the cooks and servers. Some of them can really dance and sing! All the servers are really great and very nice. Actually, all the staff at North Bend are so nice and hard-working!”
When asked why she was nominated as Traditions' April Resident of the Month, Chef Jack stated, “Wilma is always willing to help, especially in the dining room. She is one of the sweetest women you will ever meet.”
Robin Hoffman, Activity Director, agreed, “Wilma always wants to help people. She is always super positive and very upbeat.”
