2025 Outstanding Senior Citizen Award Winners

June 17, 2025

In celebration of Older Americans Month in May, all nine counties recognized an Outstanding Senior Citizen for their contributions to the community. Read about the winners below:

Champaign County: Greg & Marcia Ward

Greg and Marcia Ward, lifelong Champaign County residents, are considered a strong and positive presence in the county and at their church, Messiah Lutheran. Over the course of many years, the Wards have been heavily involved in Champaign County’s Habitat for Humanity, building several homes, raising funds, directing food service and more. Greg Ward is the owner and operator of Ward Construction and serves as Build Chairman for Champaign County Habitat for Humanity. Marcia Ward, a retired schoolteacher, and Greg Ward are also involved with local youth, encouraging growth and education.

Clark County: Paul “Ski” Schanher

Born and raised in Springfield, Paul “Ski” Schanher is a retired dentist who is known to serve his community and is described as an advocate for Clark County and its history. Schanher volunteers in a multitude of ways, including mentoring school-aged children through “Kids Hope,” educating the community about Springfield history through The Heritage Center of Clark County, supporting Springfield YMCA programming and much more.

Darke County: George Marchal

George Marchal has been a Darke County resident for 20 years and has travelled the world to help those he comes in contact with. Marchal has helped with Greenville Transit initiatives, including giving guidance and support surrounding situations happening in his community. He is known for being a spokesperson for anyone in need and is said to put others’ needs before his own.

Greene County: Carol Sue Knox

Carol Sue Knox is a retired public information specialist from Greene County Public Health and a Jamestown resident for over 70 years. Throughout her career and retirement, Knox is described as having dedicated her life to service. She has led initiatives including raising funds for causes dear to her heart, helping with the child identification program administered by the Greene County Sheriff’s Department and connecting community members in need of food to appropriate resources.

Logan County: Virginia Viveros

Virginia Viveros, Logan County resident for over 40 years, is a retired art teacher who stays busy helping others in the community. Viveros has been involved in mission work for many years, serving those throughout the United States and in Chile, and leads the mission initiatives at her church. Locally, Viveros helps with art classes at Lake Rehabilitation Center and serves at the Russells Point food pantry. Her kindness and generosity are said to be felt far and wide.

Miami County: John & Carol Garver

Intending to repair and renovate the West Milton Senior Citizens Center, John and Carol Garver were the driving force behind placing a Senior Citizens Levy on the ballot. In addition to the passing of the senior citizens levy, Carol, Activities Director of the center, and John, Treasurer of the center, have successfully obtained over $100,000 in grants for continual improvements. Miami County residents for over 65 years, the couple is known for dedicating countless hours serving the community with the goal of offering activities for connection, education and training for older adults.

Montgomery County: Pamela Walton

Pamela Walton is a lifelong Montgomery County resident. Three years ago, Walton became a volunteer at the Wesley Dayton senior program and has since been said to have made a significant impact on the organization through her dedication, kindness and unwavering commitment. Walton oversees meal services, ensures both participants and staff are taken care of and always offers a helping hand. Beyond her volunteer efforts, Walton is described as adding a personal touch of warmth and kindness to all she does.

Preble County: Patricia Kincer

Patricia Kincer has been a Preble County resident for over 20 years and has dedicated her time to volunteer work in the community. Kincer has been a volunteer with the West Alexandria EMS since 2003, serving as an Advanced EMT and EMS instructor and teaching CPR throughout the county. In 2024, Kincer expanded her volunteer work to include volunteering for the Ohio Senior Medicare Patrol where she is actively involved in helping older adults protect themselves from fraud and scams.

Shelby County: Conelia Dixon

Conelia Dixon is a retired K-12 teacher who has lived in Shelby County for over 25 years. 12 years ago, Dixon began the People’s Garden at Agape Distribution to help families receive fresh vegetables through the food pantry. Dixon continues to volunteer as a master gardener. She has three sons, three grandchildren and loves spending time with her family. Dixon is a member of Connection Pointe Church.

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