CHERRY HILL – Eight years ago, on Maureen Reidy’s first morning as a resident of the now-Saint Mary’s Center for Rehabilitation and Healthcare, an unexpected encounter while praying in the facility’s chapel led to a lifelong blessing.
A “squeaky cart” broke the silence, and she thought, “Who’s making that noise?” Reidy recalled.
Soon, she realized it was building administrator Maureen Kogelman, going about her business.
“It was an instant friendship,” Reidy said. “Whenever I needed her, she was there.”
Reidy was among those who gathered Sept. 23 at the healthcare center to wish Kogelman farewell as she prepared to retire after 15 years as administrator and decades of service to the center.
“I’m going to miss her warmth and her being on the other end of the phone immediately,” Reidy said.
Resident Joan Smith agreed. “During this pandemic, she’s held everything together, kept us happy and safe. I’m going to miss her smile, her care and her love.”
Previously under the leadership of the Diocese of Camden under the name Saint Mary’s Catholic Home, the center is now an affiliate of the Catholic Health Group. Priests of the Diocese and the Little Servant Sisters of the Immaculate Conception continue the tradition of ministering to residents.
The celebration in the center’s dining room included lunch, music and line dancing. Cherry Hill Mayor Susan Shin Angulo recognized Kogelman for her “dedication, love and service to residents as she did God’s work.”
Starting as an assistant director of nursing at the home 25 years ago, Kogelman worked her way up to director of nursing before becoming administrator. The legacy she leaves as she retired Oct. 1 – providing care and support to residents, their families, staff members and the Cherry Hill community – was evident during the farewell.
“She’s put her heart and soul into this facility,” said Ralph Gottlieb, regional director of Catholic Health Group. “Her care comes from a place of passion and love.”
Kogelman will be succeeded by Melissa Wnuk, who like her predecessor, has worn many hats at the residency since beginning there in 1992. Most recently director of nursing, Wnuk also served as a nurse’s aide and assistant director. She attended the Helene Fuld College of Nursing, N.Y.
“Maureen has been my confidante, and my biggest cheerleader,” Wnuk said, adding that Kogelman has “always put residents first, and made [Saint Mary’s] a special place for them.”
In retirement, Kogelman says she is looking forward to traveling abroad as well as spending time with her three sons and two twin grand-daughters.
“My heart and soul will always be here. I’m going to miss everybody,” she said.
However, she is also confident in passing on the reins to Wnuk, as Saint Mary’s embarks on its next chapter.
“She’s ready to go; Saint Mary’s is in good hands,” Kogelman said.
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