Pearce would like to recognize Les & Kathy Palmer as our December Member of the Month!
Les and Kathy are both retired. Les retired from a 32-year career as an Industrial Arts teacher in South Dakota and Illinois. Kathy retired from a 20-year career with the Department of Army, working in Human Resources as a civilian. Kathy also enjoyed being a full-time mom, seamstress, and homemaker before she returned to the workforce.
Les and Kathy moved to Chillicothe during the Covid shutdown after spending more than 50 years near Galena, Illinois. Over the years, they were avid cyclists and walkers. Missing being able to workout at a facility with classes and equipment, once the shutdown eased up and Pearce resumed membership to the public, they jumped at the chance to join. Their family here in Chillicothe had been members for a long time already and they were enthusiastic about what they could enjoy doing as retirees. They have enjoyed being members for nearly four years.
When asked what they most enjoy about Pearce, they said “We enjoy the variety of classes and walking on the track. We have made lots of new friends, which is nice because we are still fairly new to the community, we appreciate that everyone is so friendly. The staff have been friendly and helpful too. In 2025, we look forward to adding water exercise into our fitness routine.”
Having a Pearce membership is beneficial because it keeps us fit! We enjoy participating in SilverSneakers, walking the track, participating in the Annual Run for the Health of It 5k and 2mi walk, and the Fitness Challenge (walking 500 miles in 6 months). We were amazed at how much walking we did every week!
When asked how being a member at Pearce helps you in life and overall health and well-being, this is what Les and Kathy had to say: “Both of us are seniors (75 & 80 years old)! Les has Parkinson’s Disease and his doctors stress that the best way to slow down symptoms is to exercise – in whatever way is fun! Kathy has recovered from Meniere’s Disease and her doctor encourages her to keep moving for continued recovery. We enjoy being physically and mentally active! Having the support of other Pearce members and instructors helps immensely.”
In their free time, they love to travel and have visited 49 states (Hawaii is still on the bucket list!).
Les and Kathy’s advice for fellow Pearce members: Try something new. Keep on exercising and explore all this great facility has to offer.
Thank you, Les and Kathy, for choosing to be a Pearce member!