A Lifetime of Service Continues in Retirement

When George Kruger graduated from high school in 1964, the military was inevitable. He earned his nursing degree through the U.S. Army's student nurse program and, after active duty, stayed in the reserves until he could retire.

Upon entering civilian life, George worked at a county hospital in Georgia. But in 1992 he was ready for a change and headed to Denver. George interviewed with every hospital in the city and knew Saint Joseph Hospital was his top choice.

"You just knew after you went in there that it was where you wanted to work," George says.

He was hired as an RN, specialty shift coordinator in the Internal Medicine Unit, where he worked until retirement in 2011.

George's giving began almost immediately. The Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth sponsored a yearly campaign to fund the foundation, and employees could make a one-time or monthly donation. George opted for an ongoing payroll donation.

After retirement, George returned to volunteer in the hospital gift shop, and he is currently serving a two-year term as the Volunteer Board president.

"Saint Joseph...has been really, really good to me, and this is just part of giving back," he says.

George has also been making donations to the foundation from his 401(a) retirement account.

"I considered that extra money from the organization that I have been using to donate back to them," George says.

This type of planned giving helps him fulfill the required minimum distribution, and the money goes toward big projects.

To anyone thinking of planning a gift for the Saint Joseph Hospital Foundation, George recommends getting together with the board. To get in touch, please contact your local foundation using the links below.