Dayle Vondal says "volunteering is my hobby." He volunteers at North Valley Hospital, North Valley Food Bank and Whitefish Community Center, where he was recently crowned King of the Golden Agers for the Winter Carnival.

A long-time railroader, with service in Olney and Whitefish, Dayle is married to Reba. They have two children, two grandchildren and one great grandchild.

Twice a week, Dayle volunteers at the North Valley Hospital gift shop. A salesman by nature, he can't resist commenting on the quality of the merchandise and the reasonable prices. He particularly enjoys the friendliness that prevails throughout the hospital and the fact that he is made to feel he's a part of the team.

At the food bank, he does things such as wrap meat and twice a week contacts stores to gather food and deliver it to the food bank for distribution. At the community center, he primarily delivers Meals on Wheels.

A self-described "people person," he thoroughly enjoys visiting with people on his route. He explains that they laugh, joke and discuss current, past and future events just as though they were family.

He's active in his church and is an avid sports fan, attending most of the school-sponsored activities.

Although his friends golf, fish, ski, etc., Dayle would rather spend his time volunteering. He explains that from his volunteering, "there is a reward that comes back naturally that makes me feel good."

In describing him, co-workers generally start with, "Oh, he's a great guy," followed by praise of his humor, dependability and genuine regard for others. Neighbors say that if he sees anyone who needs help, "he shows up," and because of him, they have an "old-fashioned closely-knit neighborhood."

Dayle, your selfless devotion to the well being of others is commendable. You bring joy into the lives of many, and we thank you.

— Jake Heckathorn

This column is dedicated to those who give freely of their time and energy to worthwhile community projects, but whose efforts often go unnoticed. If you know such a person, please e-mail jheckathorn@centurytel.net.