By Madison Butkus
Hometown Weekly Reporter
This past Friday, March 1st, friends, family, and Westwood Council on Aging (COA) members gathered together to celebrate Operations Manager Trish Tucke on her retirement. After 16 incredible years, Trish is ready to say goodbye, with her first vacation already planned, driving to Florida with her husband.
The Westwood COA was packed full with grateful attendees, sad to see Trish go, but absolutely thrilled with her success over the years. Director of the Westwood COA, Lina Arena-DeRosa, was there welcoming everybody in, mingling amongst the crowd, and making sure Trish had the best sendoff possible.
Light refreshments of mini quiches, fresh fruit cups, assorted pastries, assorted bagels, and breads were served. Coffee and water were also provided. The whole center was beautifully decorated with balloons, flowers, pictures, and more. Within the main area of the party, a beautifully made slideshow was presented, including some highlights of Trish’s time at the COA. A performance by guitarist Chris Carter could be enjoyed throughout the event.
There was a delicious cake on one table, surrounded by cards and gifts to thank Trish for all she has done over the years. In the crafting room, a photo booth was set up for all to partake in, including an array of funny props to use in the photos.
During this farewell party, five individuals spoke and congratulated Trish for her amazing 16 years being a part of this community, including State Representative Paul McMurtry, Westwood Town Manager Chris Coleman, and Norfolk County Sheriff Office's Director of Community Affairs Michael Ramos.
Lina additionally said a few words, and made sure to keep it short for Trish’s sake since everyone knows Lina loves to talk, especially about Trish. “I promise I will keep it short. I even wrote it so I wouldn’t go too far. So when I started here eight years ago, Trish was willing to teach me all things Westwood and I have to tell you she was awesome. And it was obvious from the very beginning of my tenure that Trish’s commitment to Westwood and the senior community was not just from her head, but also from her heart. As you can imagine, we did not always agree, which is shocking I know, but her counsel was something I truly treasured and her insights were always spot on. Trish has been my confidant, my sounding board, and my friend. Thank you for everything. Whenever I was losing my mind, which we know happens pretty frequently, Trish would be quiet in the midst of the storm. And her calmness and thoughtfulness always helped me stay focused. Her commitment to the center is beyond words and though we are thrilled she is retiring, I have to say we will always miss her, and that is an understatement. Trish I could go on for hours but I won’t. But from the bottom of my heart and from all of us, we thank you for 16 years of commitment to Westwood Seniors, your 20 years commitment to Westwood Food Pantry, for always caring so deeply for each and every senior, for keeping the vans running smoothly, and keeping the Center in great shape. We are truly a family here with many laughs and some tears and we will miss you. We are so happy for you, we wish you lots of laughter and joy and great memories as you start the new chapter in your life. Finally, come back to us as a senior. We have some great programs here if you didn’t know! Best wishes always, we love you Trish!”
After everyone’s moving words, Trish additionally addressed the crowd one last time. “I want to say thank you for the greatest job on earth. You guys all know how much I love you all. I call you my seniors, but I’m one now. I have learned so much here and I take it all to heart. I have listened to everything you all have said and I will definitely be back. There are a few of you I definitely want to haunt, you know who you are! It really is just the greatest job ever and I wouldn’t trade it for the world. Seniors are the absolute best, and I taught in a preschool. You guys have it all down but you do have some of the same issues, but I really wouldn’t trade this for the world. Up until yesterday I was so anxious about leaving, but now I realize it is time. And Mary Ellen is going to be a great replacement. I leave you all in good hands and thank you all so much. I am overwhelmed by the love. Thank you so much.”
On behalf of Hometown Weekly Newspaper, we wish you an amazing and well deserved retirement Trish!
