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If one ever had doubts about how special a place Rockne is, all they would have to do is come out to a fundraising event to witness how the community bands together to help those in need. Several people gathered at Watterson Hall on Sunday to help raise money for Hayden and Marie Haberer, whose home was destroyed by a fire in January.
The event began with a barbecue lunch and then a live auction at 2 p.m. Auctioneers worked tirelessly and people were happy to donate their time and items for the auction. The event was organized by Nell Rose Fohn and Melissa Voigt.
I was also impressed by the fact that Marie herself made it a point to circulate throughout the crowd, introducing herself and graciously thanking each person for coming.
When I sat down to talk to Marie and her husband, Hayden, they spoke not of the devastation of loss from the fire, but about how blessed they were to be surrounded by such generous and caring folks.
They were also happy to talk about the fact that they will celebrate their 45th wedding anniversary this April.
“We met right over there,” Hayden said, as he pointed to the nearby dance floor with a twinkle in his eye.
Marie added that they held their wedding dance at Watterson Hall (then known as Big Annie’s) as well.
Lawrence Hernandez holds up a $100 bill to get the attention of the auctioneer. Hernandez also made and donated several items for the fundraiser.
The couple settled down in San Marcos, where they lived up until nine years ago, when they returned to Marie’s hometown to retire and live in her childhood home on Hwy. 535 near Watterson.
The 63-year-old house, recently destroyed in the fire, was built when she was a little girl (the windows were even made lower to the ground so that she could look out at the time).
This swing was one of the auction items, made and donated by Vincent Goertz and Jackie Tucker. Pictured (l-r) are Jay McCown, Mike Hilbig, Keaton Morris, and Steve Whit.
As the auction came to a close, Marie addressed the crowd and was filled with emotion as she expressed her heartfelt gratitude for everyone’s generosity.
Mark Your Calendars
On Saturday, March 13, a benefit will be held at the Rockne VFW for Jacquie Reeder, to offset medical expenses due to cancer. Barbecue plates will be sold for $7 beginning at 5 p.m., with a live auction at 7 p.m.,
A dance is set for 9 p.m., with live music by Herman Goertz and Mark Lee.
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