PAST WINNERS OF THE ANNUAL SALT OF THE EARTH AWARD
Margaret Barrett & mother, Beverly Barrett
Beverly Barrett, 2019
The Ervin F. and Beverly A. Barrett Salt of the Earth Award is inspired by lives of the first recipients, the late Ervin F. Barrett and his wife Beverly A. Barrett (our founder, Margaret Barrett’s parents). Mr. and Mrs. Barrett’s exemplary lives demonstrate integrity, compassion and dedication to others motivated by their Christian faith.
Margaret Barrett & Dr. Peter Cole
Dr. Peter COLE, 2020
Dr. Peter Cole was nominated by his wife for his numerous charitable service ventures in his community, including the founding of his non-profit ministry, “Scalpel at The Cross” which seeks to be salt and light to marginalized people groups in Pucallpa, Peru.
Deb Nygaard and husband, Mark Nygaard
Deb Nygaard, 2021
Deb is an extremely hard-working, compassionate, woman with an incredible heart for service born out of her faith. Deb has served many years with Days for Girls International, a nonprofit that changes the lives of women and girls in other countries by providing sustainable, reusable, washable products to help them manage their periods.
Karen Bergstrom with Margaret Barrett
Karen Bergstrom, 2022
Karen Bergstrom was nominated for her unwavering faith and lifelong commitment to serving others. After more than 35 years as a registered nurse, including 15 years in hospice care, she has continued to serve her church and community by supporting families in need, feeding the hungry, welcoming Hmong immigrants, and faithfully caring for others as a mother and servant of God.
Rosemary Stahl, 2023
Our 2023 award was presented in memorium of Rosemary Stahl (1943-2023) to her husband Ted Stahl, daughter Lynn Amon, and family. Rosemary’s family chose St. Odilia’s Endowment Fund – Pastoral Care for the $1000 donation.
Jeff and RachealAnn Loeks with Margaret Barrett
Jeff and RachealAnn Loeks, 2024
Jeff has dedicated his life to serving others and finding meaningful ways to meet the needs of his community. Through his work at Regions Hospital and numerous charitable efforts, he has organized food, clothing, coat, sock, and shoe drives for those in need, supported healthcare workers and law enforcement, and raised funds for causes including local food shelves and K-9 safety.
Mark and Susan Deiman with Margaret Barrett
Mark and Susan Deiman, 2025
Mark and Susan were nominated for their extraordinary selflessness and compassion, dedicating their time, home, and resources to serving people in need through prison and youth ministries, disaster relief, outreach, caregiving, and life-changing personal support.
