Story originally printed in the La Crosse Tribune or online at www.lacrossetribune.com

Published - Sunday, May 11, 2008

Mary Althoff: 'Mom taught us to be kind'

My mom, Delores Althoff of Bangor, Wis., is a very special person because she has taught me the value of being kind and considerate of people, especially those who are alone or in need.

When I was 10 years old I helped out an elderly lady in our neighborhood who was not able to get out to do her errands. I would get her groceries and her mail at the post office. In the early 1960s there was no mail delivery in a small town. Every holiday, before our family sat down to a wonderful home-cooked dinner, my mom would pack up an entire meal including dessert. One of my brothers and I would deliver it to this lady, sweet little Martha.

I still remember the look on her face when we came in with the hot meal. This has stayed with me all of these years. I know the value and good feelings that come from helping someone.

Thanks, Mom, not only from me but also from my other nine siblings. We will honor you on May 11 — you will not be cooking!

— Mary Althoff, La Crosse