FINDING PASSION

After graduating from high school and attending Missouri State University, Bill joined the merchant marines. After completing his term, he returned to Springfield where he opened Foster’s Help Yourself Laundry. There, his dedication to provide caring customer service became apparent. Bill installed an air tube that rang a bell whenever a car pulled in so he could immediately rush out and carry in the laundry. In his words, “I helped them out whatever way I could – carried all their clothes in, carried them out wet, whatever I could to get the job done.” Customers found doing laundry to be less of a chore and more so a visit with a friend.

Bill operated the laundromat for several years. It was during this time his visit to an elderly friend instigated a career change that would become his life’s passion. It was evident to Bill that the gentleman needed more care than his family was able to provide. However, this was long before the assisted and skilled living care facilities we know today were in existence. Bill was determined to create a place for the elderly that provided not only quality care, but a home-like environment based on respect and dignity. He purchased a former boarding house which became Foster Convalescent Home in 1955.