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Health care worker to retire after 42 years
After more than four decades of compassionate care, a familiar and trusted presence is preparing to say goodbye at Helen Henderson Care Centre.
Laurie Snider, a Personal Support Worker (PSW), is retiring after 42 years of dedicated service, leaving behind a legacy defined not just by longevity, but by deep human connection.
Laurie began her career on May 8, 1984, at a time when the home looked very different from what residents and staff know today. Over the years, she has witnessed remarkable growth and transformation.
“When I started, there was just one reception area. Now there are three,” she recalls. “The lodge had two wings, and now there are four connected by the lounge. Spaces have completely changed, what used to be the boardroom and chapel is now the servery on the long-term care side. Even the Garden View dining room was once the activity room, and hairdressers were located where the offices are today.”
But while the building evolved, the heart of Laurie’s work remained constant.
“What I loved most was taking care of the residents,” she says. “Sitting and talking with them about their lives, comforting them on hard days, and doing little things to make them smile—that’s what mattered.”
Her career also reflects perseverance and personal growth. Nearly three decades into her work, she completed her PSW certification in 2013, a milestone she considers her greatest professional accomplishment.
“I never imagined I’d be here for 42 years,” she admits. “But I owe that to my parents. I grew up in a family business—we were always busy. That work ethic, and a bit of stubbornness, kept me going.”
Colleagues say her dedication has left an indelible mark on both residents and staff. Sue Reynolds, Director of Care, reflected on Laurie’s extraordinary career:
“Laurie is truly an exceptional individual who gave so much of herself to our home. She began her career in the lodge and later transitioned to the long-term care side as a nurse’s aide. At a time when many are preparing for retirement, Laurie chose to return to school to further her education, earning her Personal Support Worker diploma with honours while continuing to work full-time. She has always put residents first and herself last. Now, it’s time for Laurie to focus on herself and enjoy life. It is an incredible achievement to have dedicated 42 years to one home, something we may never see again.
Laurie, we wish you all the wonderful things in life, tenfold, for everything you have given. From the bottom of my heart, enjoy your retirement—and don’t forget the bubble wrap!”
As she steps into retirement, Laurie is looking forward to a quieter, but still fulfilling, chapter. She plans to spend more time with her son and her sister’s family, and has already begun helping with lambing on the farm—something she long promised she would do. She also looks forward to enjoying simple pleasures like jigsaw puzzles and country walks.
Still, leaving won’t be easy.
“I will miss the residents for sure, and the staff I’ve become friends with. There have been so many good times. I have a lot of memories,” she says. “But I’ll be back to visit.”
Laurie’s impact on the care centre community is undeniable. For 42 years, she has been a steady, compassionate presence in the lives of countless residents and families—a role that goes far beyond job description. She will be formally recognized for her years of service at a special presentation in the home’s Fireside Room at 2 pm on Friday, May 15.
As one chapter closes, her legacy of kindness, dedication, and quiet strength will continue to be felt in the halls she helped shape for more than four decades.
Helen Henderson Care Centre is grateful for the good work of Laurie Snider. Although she will be missed, residents and staff wish her all the best in her retirement. To learn more about living or working at our home, please visit call 613-384-4585.
