Volunteering a way of life for St. Marys couple

ST. MARYS - Jim and Lucille Nuhfer have walked together through thousands of days, building a marriage and helping others along the way. The Ohio Department of Aging and Ohio first lady Frances Strickland recently honored the couple with the Joined Hearts in Giving Award for their marriage and service to the community.

"The secret to a long marriage is being able to communicate, being able to talk to each other," Jim Nuhfer, 77, said. "We chat a lot in the evening and laugh a lot. We find something every day to smile about."

"When we really want to get into a deep conversation, we get in the car and go for a drive," Lucille Nuhfer, 75, added. "Part of it, too, is being able to give in."

The Nuhfers, who were married in September 1952, were chosen for the award as representatives of a five-county area.

"It was a big surprise," Lucille Nuhfer said. "We were nominated by the (Auglaize County) Council on Aging, and only 33 couples were chosen in Ohio. It's quite an honor."

"I feel humbled," Jim Nuhfer said. "I didn't expect it. I'm happy about it, but I'm hoping I'm worthy of it."

The award featured a reception at the governor's residence in February.

Jim Nuhfer is a retired pastor with the United Methodist Church. He is a member of the St. Marys Kiwanis and chaplain for the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the American Legion. He is the vice president of Sources, which helps poor people with a variety of needs such as heating, housing and transportation. He served in the Army during the Korean War.

"I've been with the Kiwanis for 33 years," he said. "It's very important to me. I volunteer because I enjoy people. I enjoy meeting new people, talking and listening. I listen a lot. It's one of the primary things I do."

Lucille Nuhfer does volunteer work at the Auglaize County Council on Aging, Grace United Methodist Church and Agape, which operates a thrift store and food pantry. She also sings in the choir at the Otterbein Retirement Community.

"Volunteering is a way of life," she said.