VILLA OF THE WOODS DEDICATION
On Tuesday, June 18, 2002 the newly renovated and expanded facility for Older Adults, Villa of the Woods, 5610 Noll Avenue was dedicated with Bishop John M. D’Arcy presiding.
Villa of the Woods is a licensed residential living facility serving older adults and participates in the State of Indiana Medicaid Room and Board Assistance Program. The center was established in 1976 and is located at the former Bishop Luers Convent. With the renovation and expansion, the facility is now able to accommodate 35 residents, with all residents having private baths. There are new dining and kitchen facilities, and activity center, library and expanded chapel. The facility is fully handicap accessible. According to Kathleen Donnellan, director of Catholic Charities, the renovation and expansion of Villa of the Woods was made possible by the generous donation of Michael and Catherine Gilmartin. Michael J. Gilmartin (1869-1945) was a native of Fort Wayne and with his father organized the Gilmartin Lumber Company. He was a member of St. Patrick Church. His wife Catherine A. (1882-1971) was also a native of Fort Wayne and member of St. Patrick Church. She had one son, Houeston Barnett. Following her death she provided for the care of her daughter-in-law. At the time of the death of Mrs. Barnett, the proceeds from the estate were given to the diocese for housing for the elderly. Mrs. Gilmartin wished this as a memorial to her husband.
“Catholic Charities is pleased to be the beneficiary of the generosity of this Fort Wayne family,” said Donnellan. “As a result of their bequest to the Diocese we will be able to continue our tradition of caring for the elderly with dignity and respect.”
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