Retirement brings fond memories for Ruth Ferfecki

Ruth Ferfecki shares vivid memories of King-Bruwaert House (KBH) as she retires following a 38- year career. Ferfecki was hired in the Food Service Department in 1983 by then KBH Administrator Muriel Whybrow. She remembers Whybrow as being “stern but very kind,” applying “House Rules” to everyone living in the retirement community.

“Mrs. Whybrow lived and worked at the House and she ran a tight ship,” Ferfecki said. “She would sit in our dining room and watch everything.”

Ferfecki reminisces about the strong leadership she has witnessed during her tenure. Whybrow served as administrator for 19 years before retiring and returning to England. Carl Baker then stepped in as administrator and retired after 30 years of leading multiple renovation and construction projects. Terri Bowen, who now serves as Chief Executive Officer, has spent the last five years working closely with the Board of Directors to plan several major construction projects that will position KBH for the next generations of 60-plus adults. Bowen also oversees the largest and most technical operation since KBH first opened in 1933. Ferfecki, who has witnessed so much progression, definitely likes the direction KBH is taking and she hopes to come back to visit staff and residents - and see all the changes.

“It’s been a long and exciting road,” Ferfecki recalled as she looks back on endearing residents, friendly staff and an abundance of special events. She recalls happy celebrations, including the the annual Garden Parties that brought families together for a day of festivities, food and fun. She also remembers how much the residents enjoyed ceramics and weaving at KBH. “They looked forward to being creative and they made so many beautiful items,” she said.

Ferfecki’s late husband, Stan, worked in the KBH Maintenance Department for more than two decades. Residents were always happy to see him bring Ruth flowers or give her a kiss, she said. “It’s been very family-focused here,” she said. “It’s just a very special place.”

After working as both a server and former supervisor in the Culinary Department, Ferfecki plans now to focus on her health and spend quality time with her two adult children and seven grandchildren who range in age from 5- to 24. “They are treasures,” she said of her grandkids.

They keep me busy.”

“Ruth will be missed by staff and residents alike,” commented Culinary Director Aaron Torres. “She connected with staff, residents and their families right away. She was always very helpful and attentive to our residents’ needs and preferences and she always made time for conversations, creating a welcoming environment.”

Ferfecki plans to travel in the future and to enjoy life at a different pace.

“I know I will miss everybody,” she said. “I will never say goodbye because I have some very good memories that will always stay with me.”