Meet Jane Tischbein, our March Resident of the Month! Jane was born and raised in Cincinnati, Ohio, and has called Traditions at North Willow home for nearly 2 ½ years after moving to Indiana from Minnesota.
When asked why she chose North Willow as her new home, Jane stated, “My family and I thought North Willow was the perfect option for me due to the proximity to my family.”
“I married my husband in 1944,” said Jane. “He was my brother’s best friend, and he was always around. He caught my eye, and the rest is history.” Jane and her husband have 4 children, 3 boys and 1 girl. She also has 13 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren. After raising their children together, Jane and her husband moved to Minnesota and enjoyed many wonderful years there.
Before retiring, Jane was a kindergarten and primary school teacher for many years, having received her teaching degree from the University of Michigan.
After retiring from teaching, Jane found herself taking a second career path as a manufacturer’s representative for children’s toys and games. She had been shopping at a store and saw some children’s toys and wanted to know where they came from. The store employee gave her the rep’s number and that is how she connected with and began working for them. Jane traveled frequently with this job, primarily to North Dakota, South Dakota, and all over Minnesota.
When we asked Jane if she had any hidden talents, she said, “I’m a piano player; I played for many, many years. Unfortunately, I don’t play anymore.”
Jane loves watching sports… especially the Cincinnati Reds, University of Michigan (football) and the Minnesota Vikings.
Jane’s favorite activity at North Willow is Wii Bowling, stating, “I’m a huge fan of Wii Bowling; I’m even on multiple teams!”
Jane also enjoys quieter hobbies as well like knitting, embroidery, and needle work. An avid reader, she is currently reading Great Australian Horse Stories by Anne Crawford.
When we asked Jane what her favorite meal is from North Willow’s Executive Chef, Kyle. There was no hesitation, “I absolutely love North Willow’s breakfast… especially the pancakes and French toast!”
Jane was generous in sharing valuable advice, “Honesty is always the best policy.” She went on to add that, “You shouldn’t be so critical with yourself or others; it’s a waste of time to be critical. Finally, you must do what you have to do in different situations.”
For example, moving to Indiana was not Jane’s first choice and she would return to Minnesota in a heartbeat. However, she said, “I decided to meet people here and be a friend to others. That course of action made my life easier than sitting around feeling bad that I wasn’t in Minnesota with my friends. I have created many friendships with so many different people who have different stories. I would never have imaged meeting all my current friends.”
When asked why they nominated Jane for Traditions Management’s March Resident of the Month, Libby Mellinger, North Willow’s Executive Director stated, “She is always so nice and helpful, both to new residents and staff.”
North Willow Community Relations Director, Allison Roskam, went on to say, “Jane has lived at North Willow for nearly 2 ½ years and brings joy to everyone she encounters! She never hesitates to introduce herself to new residents and makes them feel at home. We are so fortunate to have her as part of our North Willow family!”