Dr. Skendzel completed his undergraduate studies at University of Notre Dame in 1986. He earned his medical degree from Wayne State University in 1990 and completed his residency at Marquette General Hospital in 1993. Dr. Skendzel has been in hospice care for 12 years. He has worked for Jacobetti Home for Veterans in Marquette. He also worked for Family Care Doctors in Marquette. Dr. Skendzel is a member of the American Academy of Family Medicine, the American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Care, and the American Academy of Geriatrics. Dr. Skendzel says that hospice care chose him. He believes that the challenge of working with a team to improve quality of life never ends. Outside of work Dr. Skendzel enjoys reading, New Orleans and soul music, biking, and playing with his three kids, ages 13, 12, and 10.

Dr. Johnson attended Northern Michigan University where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Biochemistry in 1994. He earned his medical degree from the College of Osteopathic Medicine at Michigan State University in 2000. In 2001 he completed an internship at Mercy General Hospital in Muskegon, MI. He completed his residency at the Marquette Family Medicine Residency Program in 2003. Dr. Johnson has been a primary physician for patients receiving hospice care since 2002. He joined the team here at LSH in 2010. Dr. Johnson also works for the Marquette Family Medicine Residency Program where he has been the Program Director since 2011. Before that he was the program's Osteopathic Director since 2003. He is a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, the American Osteopathic Association, the American College of Osteopathic Family Physicians, the American Academy of Family Physicians, and the Boy Scouts of America. As a family physician, some of Dr. Johnson's most rewarding experiences have been at the polar ends of life. From helping a mother to be and her family prepare for the birth, to helping an individual and their family as they prepare for death, both mortalities have been very powerful on him. Dr. Johnson sees the end of life interactions important for patients, their families, the community, and is where he values spending his time as a physician. In his free time, Dr. Johnson enjoys spending time with his family, home improvement projects, and biking.

Dan graduated from George Washington University in Washington, D.C. with a Doctor of Medicine Degree. He also earned a Bachelor of Science Degree from Holy Cross College in Worchester, MA. Dan has been working in hospice care for 12 years. Over his career, Dan has worked at many places including Michigan State University, UP Health Education Corporation, and at a private practice. He is part of Northern Michigan University's Pre Meds program and a member of St. Peter's Cathedral. Dan is continually amazed at the goodness of people, both families and hospice staff, who give themselves up to care for loved ones at the end of their lives. He believes it is a privilege to work with these people. In his free time, Dan enjoys golfing, reading, and cooking.

Becky attended Michigan State University and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing in 1993. She has been working in hospice care for 7 years and says that hospice care chose her. Before joining LSH, she worked as an oncology nurse for Marquette General Hospital, Ingham Regional Hospital in Lansing, MI. and at Lansing General Hospital. Becky's certifications include End of Life Nursing Education (ELNEC), Palliative Care Education and Practice (PCEP), Oncology Certified Nurse (OCN), and Certified Hospice and Palliative Care Nurse (CHPN). She is a member of the Oncology Nursing Society (ONS), the Hospice and Palliative Care Nursing Association (HPNA) and the PCEP.

Linda graduated with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing from Queen of Angels School of Nursing in 1971. She is also attended Santa Rosa Junior College and was a graduate of Terralinda High School in San Rafeal, CA. Linda has been working in hospice care for almost 18 years. Before coming to LSH, she worked in various hospitals in California. Linda chose hospice care because she wanted to help those in terminal stages make their journey as easy as possible. She is a member of the Marquette Choral Society. In her free time Linda enjoys knitting, crocheting, baking, and music.

Christy is a graduate from Northern Michigan University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing. She also attended Iowa State University and Iowa Community College. She has been with LSH for 10 years and in hospice for 14 years. She also spent 9 years in medical surgery and another 4 in home health care. In addition to LSH, Christy has also worked at Marquette General Home Health, UP Home Health and Hospice, Bell Hospital, St. Francis Hospital in Tulsa, and Great Falls Hospital. Hospice care sparked Christy's interest while filling in for a hospice nurse who was on vacation and she has been a hospice nurse ever since. Christy is involved in the Lake Superior Christian Church of Marquette, the United Kennel Club, and the American Kennel Club. In her spare time she enjoys raising, training, and showing standard poodles. She also enjoys gardening, photography, hiking, camping, fishing, and stained glass.

Lynn attended Wayne State University and earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing in 1986. She has been with LSH for two years. Before joining LSH, Lynn worked with at Woman's Health Associates with Dr. Licia Raymond for 10 years. She also worked at the Mayo Clinic for 2 years. Lynn heard about hospice care in nursing school and thought she would "never" want to do that. Time, life experiences and her family members' deaths are what made Lynn feel the need to see what hospice nursing was all about. When approached about hospice nursing, she was surprised that she was no longer thinking "never". Hospice nursing has truly enriched Lynn's life. Lynn's hobbies include gardening, biking, fitness, reading, and cooking/baking.

Jessica graduated in 2000 from the University of Alaska Anchorage with a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing. She started working at LSH in January and before worked for Alaska Urological Associates and Women's Health Associates. She chose hospice care because she feels it's important to provide support to families at a very difficult time. She is the "Queen Bee" for the Superior Beekeeping Club. When not at work, Jessica enjoys gardening, camping, swimming, and geocaching.

Jessica graduated from Northern Michigan University in 2005 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing. She has just started working at LSH. She has previously worked at Moore Regional Hospital in North Carolina and Rush Medical in Chicago, IL. She chose hospice because of the chance to explore her nursing career outside of the hospital and for the wonderful opportunity to become educated on symptom management. Out side of work Jessica enjoys biking, tennis, reading, golf, and hiking with her dog.

Kelly is a 2011 graduate from Benedictine University in Lisle, IL with a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing. She also has a LPN degree from Northern Michigan University and an ADN degree from Bay De Noc Community College. Kelly is new to hospice care and to LSH. Before joining our team, she worked in the ICU and CCU at Marquette General Hospital and the ICU at Elmhurst Memorial Hospital in Elmhurst, IL. Kelly is a member of the National Nursing Society and Sigma Theta Tau. She chose hospice care to be able to assist people to live their days at home based on their individual goals. Outside of work, Kelly enjoys 4-wheeling, snowmobiling, camping and spending time with her family and friends.

Tiffany attended Northern Michigan University where she earned a Bachelor's Degree in Social Work. Currently she is pursuing a Master's Degree in Social Work from Michigan State University and expects to graduate in 2013. Tiffany has been with LSH for 4 years, she was an intern for a year before being offered a paid position. She chose hospice care because she enjoys being a part of a team, which focuses on providing compassion, dignity, and respect to families and individuals who are terminally ill. Tiffany's hobbies include reading, walking, and spending time with her family and friends.

Deb graduated from the Michigan State University in 1998 with a Masters Degree in Social Work. Before earning her masters degree, she received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Medicine (certified Physician's Assistant) from Mercy College of Detroit in 1980. She also received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Zoology from University of Michigan in 1977. Deb has been in hospice care for 14 years. Before coming to LSH, she worked for Mid Michigan Home Care/Hospice in Midland, MI. Deb is a member of the National Academy of Certified Social Workers (NASW) and has her ACSW credentials from NASW. She chose hospice care after studying death and dying at MSU and volunteering as a hospice volunteer during her first year at MSU. Outside of work, Deb enjoys gourmet cooking, gardening, music, reading, and hiking.

Paula is a 1993 graduate of Northern Michigan University. After graduating she started her graduate studies at Michigan State University. She is currently back to pursuing her Masters of Social work from MSU and plans to earn her degree in May 2013. She also has a degree in Cosmetology. Paula has been in hospice care as a family and an employee for 17 years. Before joining LSH, she was a hairdresser and worked at Bernina Sewing Store. Paula's mother was in hospice care and the people at Lake Superior Hospice Association were so amazing she knew right then she wanted to be involved with hospice care someday. Outside of work, Paula spends her limited free time with her husband, her kids, and her graduate studies.

Chuck is a graduate of Manchester College, in North Manchester, IN. with a Bachelor of Science degree and Ball State University, in Muncie, IN. with a Masters degree. He also has done additional graduate work at Mennonite Biblical Seminary and Garrett Evangelical Theological Seminary at Northwestern University, in Evanston, IL. He was ordained through Church of Our Savior and American Evangelical Association. Chuck's experiences range from college and university teaching to campus ministry. He also has been involved in church planning and development, 25 years of committed and compassionate parish ministry, and ten years of very compassionate and capable hospice ministry. Chuck is a two-time cancer survivor who is also involved in American Cancer Society's Relay for Life. When asked why he chose hospice, he replied, "Hospice chose me". He is the author of four books, the latest of which is Richness in Christ. Outside of work, Chuck really enjoys spending time with family, especially his 14 grandchildren. Chuck's other hobbies and interests include reading, writing, walking, biking, hiking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, Bible studies, coffee get-togethers, mission projects, and chatting with friends.

Barb is a graduate of the University of Michigan School of Nursing and has held a various RN and administrative positions in nursing. These positions include the University of Michigan Medical Center in Ann Arbor, Nursing Instructor at Purdue University North Central, and Staff Education and Development Instructor at LaPorte Hospital in LaPorte, IN. Barb managed and was head nurse at LaPorte Rehab, Inc., a privately owned Cardiac Rehabilitation Clinic, for 3 years. She served as a critical care and cardiac cath lab nurse at Marquette General Hospital for 7 years. Barb also spent 4 years as the Executive Director of Care Clinic in Marquette where she supervised the transition of the pregnancy center from a social service agency into a medical module to help women facing unplanned pregnancies. Barb is also a graduate of, and was ordained into ministry by, Christian Leadership Institute. She has served in the capacities of worship leader, church elder, and church planter. Barb has been with LSH for almost 4 years as part of the Spiritual Care Team. When asked why she chose hospice care, she replied, "I did not choose hospice care, I was called to it." In her free time, Barb enjoys spending time with her children and her 14 grandchildren, knitting, reading, walking, hiking, and cross-country skiing.

David graduated from Wayne State University in 1962 with a degree in Mortuary Science and is a licensed mortician. He joined LSH in March of 2007 and has been the Director of Stewardship and Planning of the Catholic Diocese of Saginaw and Marquette. Previously, David worked as a Brewing Quality Assurance Manger in a major brewery for 24 years. He was ordained as a Permanent Deacon in the Roman Catholic Church in 1980 and has been involved with hospital and prison ministry. He also served as Spiritual Advisor for St. Vincent de Paul Society as well as other church ministries. Due to his training as both a mortician and church minister, David felt called to use these gifts to provide spiritual support for those nearing the end of life. Also he felt the need to use the experience he gained as he accompanied family members during their finial journey. David also feels that hospice care provides an opportunity to witness the love of the Lord to patients and caring, compassionate team members. In David's free time he enjoys spending time with his wife of 50 years. Also he enjoys being near, on or in the water, especially Lake Superior. His other interests include home maintenance and repair, bird watching, meditation, spiritual studies, and electronic skills.

Sam graduated from Northern Michigan University in 2010 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Entertainment and Sports Promotion (Public Relations) and Communication Studies. Sam has been with LSH for a year now and loves the fact that we are a specifically non-profit organization. The idea of putting energy into an organization that puts their patients first is rewarding for her. Before joining LSH, Sam worked for Northern Initiatives as a Marketing Assistant and at NMU as the Varsity Sports Promotions Manager. She also was an intern for the Detroit Red Wings for their Public Relations Department during their Stanley Cup winning season of 2007-2008. Sam is a part of the 40 Below of Marquette and the Marquette Missionary Church of Marquette. Outside of work she is interested in crafts, photography, hockey, history, and traveling.

Deb is a 1983 graduate of Ishpeming High School. She has been in hospice care of 5 years. Before coming to LSH, Deb worked for various nursing homes and home health in both Michigan and Wisconsin. She chose hospice care because it is very rewarding to have the honor to take care of people and their families during a patient's end of life. Outside of work, Deb enjoys fishing, hunting, shooting pool, and throwing horseshoes.

Bio coming soon.

Ashley is a 2004 graduate of Gwinn High School. She has been part of the LSH team since February 2010. Before joining LSH, Ashley worked at Merle Norman Cosmetic Studio, Bellisimo Salon, and Wal-Mart. She chose hospice care because it is a challenging and fulfilling field of work. In her free time Ashley enjoys gardening, walking, hiking, camping and playing with her daughter.

Sue is a 1988 graduate of Marquette Senior High School. She has been in hospice care for about 10 years. Before joining LSH, Sue worked for Norlite Nursing Home, Northern Home Nursing, UP Home Health and Hospice, and also did some private home care. Sue started working hospice care while working home health care and then grew to really love it and has been working in hospice care ever since.

Carley graduated from Northern Michigan University in 2001 with a degree in Health Information Processing. She is currently enrolled at Bay de Noc Community College pursuing her nursing degree. Carley has been working in hospice care for 6 years. Carley is currently working here at LSH and also at Marquette General Hospital. She chose hospice care to make a difference in peoples lives. Out side of work Carley enjoys running and spending time with her family and friends.

Brooke is currently pursuing a degree while working here at LSH. She has been with us for a year now. Before working at LSH, she worked for Eastwood Nursing Center. Brooke chose to work hospice care because she wanted to be apart of an organization that really cared for their patients and was one-on-one. She loves being there and helping families when they need it the most. Outside of work, Brooke enjoys spending time with her two little boys, her friends, and family. She also enjoys canoeing and going for walks.

Chelsea is currently attending Northern Michigan University pursuing a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing. She is planning on graduating in December of 2011. Chelsea also earned her C.N.A. Certificate in 2006. She has been working in hospice care for almost a year now. Chelsea has also worked in Medilodge Nursing Home and Marquette General Hospital. She chose hospice care for the great learning opportunities. Chelsea had a hospice nurse speak to her nursing class and shared a story that she will never forget. So when she was choosing where to work, Chelsea remembered the nurse's story and wanted some of her own stories. In her free time Chelsea enjoys spending time with her Labs and dancing for the NMU Dance Team.

Kristen is a 2006 graduate from Northern Michigan University, where she earned an Associate in Business Degree with a major in Health Information Processing. She has been working at LSH for two and a half years. Before coming to LSH, Kristen worked at Marquette Internal Medicine as a receptionist and medial records lead clerk. She also worked for Wright and Felippis in orthodox insurance billing. Kristen is a member of 40 below and is a Team Captain for Relay for Life. She chose hospice and LSH because it is a non-profit organization and enjoys working with a talented group of professionals. In her free time Kristen enjoys being outside, working on her house, volunteering, and spending time with her family.