Since 1976 - starting when she was but 15 years old - our Kathy has worked for the same company her entire life.  But after 48 years it was time to retire.  So, we threw her a blowout          

Retirement Party!

Our Kathy had worked for Van Driel's Medical in Mt Prospect starting as a store clerk and then later as an Insurance Claims Administrator.  Throughout that whole time she worked first for Max Ullrich and then his daughter Claudia after she took over the business upon his passing.

Kathy, for the whole 48 years also worked at the store with Beth Rogala - who introduced me to Kathy way back in 1983!  

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The party was at Kemper Lakes Golf Club and held on the evening of November 22, 2024.  

A multitude of guests were there, beginning with many of Kathy's Van Driel's workmates, including Claudia, Al & wife Carole, and Beth & Doug Rogala.   My three sisters were there, Laurie, Jean and Nancy, along with Randy.  Special thanks to Jean for traveling up all the way from Florida for the shindig.  Kathy's brothers Jay with wife Val, and Gary with wife Jaaan completed the guest list along with Yours Truly.

As this was a Surprise Party, Kathy was lured to Kemper with the promise of picking up a mammoth Christmas Wine Purchase.  

Instead, all yelled "surprise!" as she waltzed through the door in search of her Vino.  

Sister Laurie promptly affixed a Happy Retirement Sash, Corsage & Tiara upon the slackjawed Princess, while a Vodka Tonic was quickly delivered to the Guest of Honor - as the Surprise left her rather parched. 

The evening commenced and we chatted, drank, and then settled down to dinner.  Beth had brought some vintage pictures of Kathy and placed them on the bar for all to see.  Brought back great times from the Previous Century.  Following dinner, lovely gifts were opened and then the Cake was wheeled in.  Quite tasty!

As the evening wound down, Kathy was still ensconced with Beth, Al, & Claudia talking about the old times at Van Driel's.   Was really nice to see. 

Picture mid left is of Kathy with her colleagues at Van Driel's.  Kathy loved working for Van Driel's and was very loyal.  But it went both ways.  Max & Claudia, were very loyal and loving to Kathy over the 48 years - and it was really heartwarming to see.  Picture below is Kathy with Max on the left and Claudia on the right.  Picture all the way on the bottom is the entire group celebrating Kathy's Achievement!

 

 Congratulations Kathy On your retirement!

Thanks to the Ullrich family for their loyalty & love!

Thanks be to God for your 48 years working at Van Driel's! 

 

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