One of the goals of Kosciusko Hospice is to not only provide care and support to the patient but also their family. Pictured, from left, are Virginia Carter, Hospice nurse and Noble Kintzel.

WARSAW — Noble Kintzel has plenty of fond memories of his sweet wife, Valerie. The days since her passing have been difficult and lonely but Noble is thankful Valerie is not suffering any longer. This beautiful love story began more than 56 years ago when Valerie worked as a car hop in Bourbon.

“I was just a farm boy but she fell in love with me,” shared Kintzel. They were blessed with two daughters, four grandchildren and so far three great-grandchildren. “I drove a truck for 50 years coast to coast and Valerie came with me a few times. She would jump into the truck bunk and she was asleep within 15 minutes. We both loved to travel.” One fond memory was their trip to Bora Bora to stay two weeks in a hut on the water. Their life together was an adventure.

Valerie’s life was not easy. She experienced tragedies and serious health issues for the last 26 years of her life. She was a strong woman and, even in the midst of her personal difficulties, she was always ready to help someone else going through hard times. Valerie’s life was a blessing to her family and so many people in her community.

“I could not have gotten through those last weeks without the support of our daughters and Kosciusko Hospice. Hospice nurse Virginia became like family. I don’t have enough words to express how much support we received from the hospice staff. With their support, I was able to care for Valerie at home until the end of her life and thankful to do it,” Kintzel stated. “I also really appreciate the calls and cards I receive since Valerie passed.”

Kintzel and his family did a wonderful job of working together to give Valerie the care she needed to be able to stay at home. Hospice is all about having a team who is there to support and care for both the patient and the family. “It was such an honor to be welcomed into Noble and Valerie’s home as part of the team,” stated Virginia Carter.