Greenfield resident Cathleen Esleeck’s 99 years were filled with family and service to the community, including through education, the arts, and notably, bettering healthcare for all.
Cathy served for years as the president of the Board of Organized Work, leading a committed group of volunteers dedicated to bolstering financial support for what is now Baystate Franklin Medical Center (BFMC). Thanks to her efforts and that of others, the group lives in the volunteer corps and the Baystate Franklin Auxiliary, which runs the hospital gift shop as a welcome and beloved place to shop for staff and visitors and which continues to generate substantial gifts to support patient care at Baystate Franklin.
In addition to giving of her time and skill, Cathy honored the passing of her husband, Irving “Red” Esleeck (2006) and their son, Edwin Esleeck, (2008) by making a gift to establish the Esleeck Memorial Garden at Baystate Franklin Medical Center.
She also honored the family’s commitment to quality healthcare in the region by creating a charitable remainder unitrust (CRUT) to benefit BFMC and other charities. Her thoughtful and generous gift from that trust provides endowed support for the hospital. The Esleeck Memorial Fund in Memory of the Esleeck Family - Irving, Cathleen, and Edwin, held at Baystate Health Foundation, will generate meaningful yearly gifts for BFMC and ensures the Esleeck family’s legacy is cemented in the community in perpetuity.
“Cathy and her family have left an indelible impact on the health of the community we serve, and on Baystate Franklin itself,” said Ron Bryant, president of BFMC and all of Baystate Health’s regional hospitals. “Cathy’s leadership, volunteer efforts, advocacy, and thoughtful generosity helped make Baystate Franklin the strong resource it is today. We are honored to help carry on the Esleeck Family legacy to ensure healthier tomorrows for the community.”
Want to create your own lasting tribute gift? Reach out to us at 413.794.7789 or Kylie.Johnson@BaystateHealth.org.
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