Generous In-Memoriam Gift Provides Educational Opportunities

Death brings unique sorrow, and Tom Huerkamp’s passing was no different. In his life, he was the founder of ProSpace Interiors, and an avid philanthropist. In his memory, the Estate of Tom Huerkamp generously gifted $50,000 to our foundation. The money established the ProSpace Interiors Education Endowment and will provide caregiver scholarships.

Our foundation matched the estate’s donation dollar for dollar, bringing the total endowment to $100,000. This has been the largest St. Mary’s scholarship endowment to date. Caregivers employed by St. Mary’s Medical Center can apply for these funds and further their education.

Dave Huerkamp, Tom’s brother and long-time Foundation board member, helped organize the gift. For the brothers, who grew up in a small town and Catholic environment, the vision of St. Mary’s resonated. “The mission of St. Mary’s hospital, to serve those in need — especially the poor and the vulnerable — aligned with our philosophy of helping others and giving to those in the greatest of need,” said Dave.

The ProSpace Interiors Education Endowment will provide individual caregiver scholarships of $1,000 or more. Caregivers seeking to further their education can apply for the scholarship starting in spring 2024.

“I have seen first-hand the financial need of some of these caregivers wanting to improve their education and skills,” said Dave. “That is why we decided to partner with the St. Mary's Foundation to create a permanent endowment that will continue to support the educational needs of these dedicated caregivers.”

Nontraditional students returning to school or entering post-secondary education often face financial hardships. The endowment will help St. Mary’s caregivers focus less on fiscal strain and more on academic pursuits. St. Mary's Foundation is grateful for both Tom and Dave Huerkamp. It is a wonderful way to memorialize the impact Tom made not just here at St. Mary’s Medical Center, but all across the Western Slope.

St. Mary’s is dedicated to creating opportunities for St. Mary’s caregivers to further their education in the healthcare industry in an environment that is close to home. Philanthropic funds go a long way to ensure St. Mary’s caregivers are properly trained and continue to learn the latest in healthcare advances, while simultaneously providing high-level and compassionate care.

“When Tom passed away, it was his wish to create a legacy of support for those people that have dedicated their lives to improving rural healthcare,” said Dave. “It is our hope that the new ProSpace scholarship will help support the critical continuing education of these dedicated healthcare professionals that give so much to our communities every day.”

If you are interested in learning more about making a planned gift or would like to discuss your plans to support the our foundation, please contact us.