DARKE COUNTY – The Darke County Senior Picnic successfully finished the month of May with beautiful weather, a successful membership drive, lots of great food, door prizes, gift basket raffle winners, and an award by the Darke County Senior Outreach naming Glenn “Wally” Wollenhaupt Darke County Senior of the Year.
Wollenhaupt was visibly moved and briefly at a loss for words when he was acknowledged and presented with the award before an estimated 200 seniors, friends, family, and colleagues. Wally, as he is known volunteered to take the role as president of the Darke County Seniors in June 2024. Together with volunteers, a board was formed in which senior citizens aged 55 and over could congregate for group activities. As a result, the Birchwood Center on Jaysville-St. Johns Road was established as the Darke County Senior Center, transforming what had previously been only an idea into reality.
Wally demonstrates humility in his interactions, rarely speaking about himself; however, it is evident that many recognize his contributions. He dedicates 65-70 hours each month to the center, where he presides over meetings, assists with event setup and supervision, and supports post-event clean-up. In addition to these responsibilities, he manages phone communications for DC Seniors, provides round trip transportation for attendees when necessary, and usually finds time to fit in a game of cards at the center on Game Day Tuesdays. His commitment extends to fulfilling various needs as they arise within the center.
One board member called him a very generous person and an effective leader. Another board member said, “He was very emotional when receiving the award and grateful to everybody. He was totally surprised; unlike those who knew his dedication to the center”
Wally’s sister, Lois, shared that he is a wonderful brother and enjoyable travel companion; he’s an excellent salesman who loves to chat, connects easily with people, and is well-liked in return. She also pointed out his fondness for games—and his tendency to win!
Raised in Brookville Wally moved with his family to Darke County (Dawn) following his graduation, shortly before accepting a position out of state. He has maintained a consistent career in service-oriented roles, beginning in Colorado and subsequently continuing in Massachusetts.
He returned to Darke County to reside near his sister. When asked what he enjoys most about the Darke County Seniors he gives a sincere smile acknowledging his appreciation for the organization, which has enabled him to meet and engage with many wonderful people of the local community.
In addition to his sister, Wally’s family includes a son and grandson living in Colorado, and a daughter and two granddaughters based in Dayton.
Winners of the gift basket raffle held during the Senior Picnic were Sandy Ashby who won the Game Day basket, Jackie McEldowney who won the Social Dancing basket, Mary Rodehefer won the basket sponsored by Tennessie Hamilton & friends, and Cheryl Meinerding won the basket from Heritage House. Congratulations!
The are four candidates running for the 2026-2027 Darke County Senior board. Members must vote for no more than 3 by June 26th. The Candidates are:
Tammy Eichler – I would be honored to be a part of the Senior Citizens board. The group has grown so quickly. The variety of events and activities have been wonderful and much needed in Darke County As I lost my husband in September it is something that helps me continue to enjoy life and have fun. The people are so welcoming.
Delores Eley – Since retirement, I have been looking to give back to my community. I serve on the City Council and one of my assignments is Council on Aging. Darke County Seniors is a natural fit for reporting on what our seniors are doing in the community. Also, I just love hanging out with this group.
Peg Ferguson – I had 30 years with Epsilon Sigma Alpha International, a philanthropic organization for children. I served as officer in many positions. I was manager for Fashion Bug in Greenville and surrounding areas for 20 years. I enjoy people and want to serve.
Barb Roth – I enjoy everyone at the center very much. I love the creativity and kindness that everyone shows to others. I have been on other boards and think I could be an asset. I have always been a joiner and a helper.
The new board members will be announced at the DCS General Meeting held Wednesday, July 1st at 3:00 pm.
First Presbyterian Church (FPC) is DC Senior’s July 2026 Sponsor Church of the month. They are located at 114 E. 4th Street, Greenville and conduct Sunday services at 10:00 am. FPC exists to glorify God by forming Christ-like disciples who love Him deeply and live for Him daily. As a Christ-centered, Bible-based, family-focused, and elder-led church, they are committed to clearly teaching scripture, nurturing faith in every generation, and serving the community in ways that reflect the love of Jesus Christ. First Presbyterian Church welcomes worshippers to come as they are. For more information about FPC and their ministries visit www.GreenvillePres.org.
As July Church Sponsor of the month, FPC will provide a $20 gift card to be drawn at the general meeting, (July 1st at 3:00 pm) . They will also provide treats to celebrate the July birthdays and refreshments for the main crafting event occurring later in the month. Thank you, First Presbyterian Church, for supporting Darke County Seniors.
Members recognized with July birthdays include Debbie Hunt, Bonnie Tryon, Lisa Malloy, Sandra King, Marilyn Casto, Andree Brown, Jan Turner, Becky Gessler, Carolyn Jones, Ernie Varvel, Renni Livingston, Madalene Staver, Sharon Troutwine, Vera Houpt, Jody Fair, Carla Lane, Carolyn Siculan, Debbie Warner, Larry Henderson, Barb Bolyard, Maura Kaeding, Brenda Stuchell, Dan Hart, James Oliver, Lynn Hamilton, Steve Clark, Joyce Hill, Jervis Thomas, Eileen McKnight, Brenda Ballengee, Charlene Bowman, Roger Tatum, Greg Ellis, Delores Eley, Marsha Bowman, Diane Anthony, Tom Levering, Sherry Smith, Joyce Brandewie, Charlyn Barnhart, Melissa Krull, Jim Brown, Gail Hahn, and Kay Sharp.
Bingo will be Thursday, July 2nd, from 11:30 – 12:30 pm hosted by Mary Rader and the movie “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner” will be viewed that same afternoon starting at 1:00 pm. Popcorn will be served. Both are free events.
Please note effective July 1st fitness class times will be 10:00 – 11:00 am. This affects Chair Yoga classes held most Tuesdays & Thursdays and Refit held most Wednesdays and Fridays.
The DCS office is open Monday through Thursday from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm at the Birchwood Senior Center, 5844 Jaysville-St. Johns Rd, Greenville. Anyone 55 and older with a valid membership is welcome to attend events. You can register for events either in person at the center or by calling or texting (937) 794-2556. For more details about the Darke County Senior Center or its programs, use the same number or email darkecountyseniors@gmail.com. Visit our Facebook page for detailed information and updates on events, as well as photos.
Stop by to say hello, get an event calendar, buy America 250 quilt raffle tickets, sign up for activities, or join/renew your membership. Annual membership is $2.
JUNE
22 – Monday – Piece Quilting ($15) 10:00 am – 12 noon [class is full]
22 – Monday – Full Plate Living 1 – 2:30 pm (Limited class size) [class is full]
23 – Tuesday – Chair Yoga 10:30 – 11:15 am
23 – Tuesday – Game Day 1:00 – 3:00 pm
24 – Wednesday – REFIT® 10:30 – 11:15 am
24 – Wednesday – Beginner Line Dancing ($5) Noon
24 – Wednesday – Line Dancing ($5) 1:00 – 3:00 pm
25 – Thursday – Chair Yoga 10:30 – 11:15 am
25 – Thursday – Lunch & Learn with Heritage of Union City 12 noon RSVP by 6/18*
26 – Friday – REFIT® 10:30 – 11:15 am
26 – Friday – Let’s Talk Travel 11:30 am – 12:30 pm
26 – Friday – Patriotic Pin ($5) 1:00 – 2:00 pm RSVP by 6/19*
26 – Friday – Patriotic Dance 7:00 – 10:00 pm RSVP by 6/19*
29 – Monday – Piece Quilting ($15) 10:00 am – 12 noon [class is full]
29 – Monday – Full Plate Living 1 – 2:30 pm (Limited class size) [class is full]
30 – Tuesday – Chair Yoga 10:30 – 11:15 am
30 – Tuesday – Game Day 1:00 – 3:00 pm
JULY
01 – Wednesday – REFIT® 10:00 – 11:00 am
01 – Wednesday – Beginner Line Dancing ($5) Noon
01 – Wednesday – Line Dancing ($5) 1:00 – 3:00 pm
01 – Wednesday – DCS General Meeting 3:00 pm
02 – Thursday – Chair Yoga 10:00 – 11:00 am
02 – Thursday – Bingo 11:30 am – 12:30 pm
02 – Thursday – Movie Day “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner” 1 – 3:00 pm
03 – Friday – REFIT® 10:00 – 11:00 am
05 – Sunday – America 250 Celebration in the Park 1 – 4:00 pm
06 – Monday – Piece Quilting ($15) 10:00 am – 12 noon [class is full]
07 – Tuesday – Chair Yoga 10:00 – 11:00 am
07 – Tuesday – Beginner Crochet Class 11:30 – 12:30 pm RSVP by 7/1*
07 – Tuesday – Game Day 1:00 – 3:00 pm
08 – Wednesday – REFIT® 10:00 – 11:00 am
08 – Wednesday – Beginner Line Dancing ($5) Noon
08 – Wednesday – Line Dancing ($5) 1:00 – 3:00 pm
09 – Thursday – Chair Yoga 10:00 – 11:00 am
09 – Thursday – Foot Care: “Healthy Feet, Preventing Falls” 1:00 pm RSVP by 7/2*
10 – Friday – REFIT® 10:00 – 11:00 am
10 – Friday – Senior Soothe Me ($10) 11:30 am – 2:00 pm RSVP asap*
*RSVP and questions should be directed to the office number (937) 794-2556 or emailed to darkecountyseniors@gmail.com, unless otherwise instructed. All events are held at the Birchwood Senior Center, 5844 Jaysville-St. Johns Rd, Greenville unless otherwise indicated. Any class with a fee must be prepaid at the time of registration, otherwise it will be considered void.
