Wayne Memorial Health Foundation (WMHF) has received the annual distribution from the Robert E. and Leila Stegner Family Foundation. WMHF is one of 13 organizations benefiting from the Stegner Family Foundation as part of their “legacy of thanksgiving” to the people of Wayne County and elsewhere for support given to their family.

The Foundation was created by Honesdale siblings Robert Stegner, Jr., DDS, along with twin sisters Joan and Janet, private music teachers. The Honesdale National Bank (HNB) serves as Trustee. Their parents Robert Sr. and Leila, joined by grandparents and uncles owned and operated the J.H. Stegnar and Sons Grocery Store and Bakery in Honesdale through much of the 20th century. They lived a humble life, saved, invested and established a substantial endowment to pass on as they chose. 

“We are extremely grateful to be a recipient of the Stegnars’ benevolence,” stated Wayne Memorial Health System CEO Jim Pettinato, BSN, MHSA, CCRN-K. “This gift will aid us in fulfilling our mission of providing quality healthcare with compassion, advocacy, and excellence while responding proactively to the needs of our community.”

The Trust was originally established in January of 2010 and amended in 2011 to promote charitable, educational and/or religious initiatives of the named organizations. The Foundation was established after the passing of the last surviving sibling, Joan Stegnar, in the fall of 2022.  Specific instructions include annual disbursement of funds during the season of Thanksgiving as an example of the family’s generosity and tribute to their modest and respectful lives.

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

Left to right: WMH Chief Nursing and Patient Care Officer Chandra Roberts, BSN, MHA, RN, Chief Facilities Officer Tim Huber, WMH CFO Patty Dunsinger, HNB VP and Trust Officer Charlie Curtin, WMHS CEO Jim Pettinato, BSN, MHSA, CCRN-K, Chief of Professional and Ancillary Services Jim Hockenbury, MHA, ACHE.