Expertise, Sensitivity, and Connection
Personalized care starts with an exceptional team.
Our experienced professionals bring empathy and dedication, ensuring that every patient receives care tailored to their needs. Together, we create comfort, build meaningful connections, and honor each life with compassion and respect
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We are honored to be part of your journey and committed to providing the compassionate care you deserve.
Simon Mittal, MD, MMM, CHMD
Medical Director
Hospice has been an important part of my personal and professional journey. I am a Board Certified Internal Medicine physician with 30 years of experience and also a Certified Hospice Medical Director. I have been in hospice off and on in my career but over the last 10 years I have been a medical director in hospice.
When I was in the Army, my mother developed breast cancer at age 46 and died when she was 51 years old and my mom and dad opted not to have hospice and I saw the stress and how difficult it was for my whole family. My father had dementia and Parkinson’s disease and we did have hospice and it was amazing the difference for him and our family in terms of less anxiety and worry. People who were caring and involved helped my Dad so much. Although, I have dedicated my career to the care of seniors, the caring by a team of compassionate people at the end of life is an incredibly humbling and amazing honor to share in the journey we share with families and individuals.
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Trisha M. Curioz, MHA, MSW, LISW
Executive Director
For the past two decades, I have had the privilege of serving as a medical social worker. Working with hospice patients and their caregivers is not merely a profession, it's a passion. In celebrating life's journey, I have come to understand that every breath matters, whether it marks the beginning of a new chapter or gently concludes a well-lived life. I feel privileged to work with our patients, caregivers, and exceptional team!
Genell Gouws, AASN, RN
Clinical Director
Working in hospice isn’t just a job—it’s a calling. With 22 years of experience as a registered nurse, including 8 years dedicated to hospice care, I feel both privileged and honored to serve as the clinical director. I lead an extraordinary team driven by a deep sense of purpose and commitment to providing the highest quality care to patients at the end of life.
There is often stigma surrounding hospice care, and many people feel afraid of the unknown. We help guide them through what to expect on their journey, easing their fears and offering reassurance. I believe every person has the right to die comfortably and with dignity.
Anne Schwemm, MSN, NP-C
Nurse Practitioner
I've been a Nurse Practitioner for 17 years, and my career has taken me through various healthcare settings. I began my journey in the emergency departments in Iowa and Maine before finally settling in Minnesota, which has been my home for the past ten years. During my time as a Nurse Practitioner, I've had the privilege of witnessing the remarkable impact a caring hospice team can have on patients and their families. This experience has touched me both personally and professionally, and it has reaffirmed the value of compassion and support during challenging times.
Ted Jackson
Community Liaison
As the Community Liaison at Lake Valley Hospice, I am committed to providing compassionate support to patients and their families during life’s most challenging moments. With six years of experience guiding families through critical transitions, I recognize the importance of holistic care that honors each person’s unique journey. My approach focuses on building meaningful connections, offering not only practical assistance but also genuine emotional support.
At Lake Valley Hospice, we are dedicated to making a positive impact in the lives of those we serve. It is a privilege to walk alongside patients and their loved ones, ensuring they receive the care, compassion, and respect they deserve.
Holly Bruckelmyer, RN
Nurse
Dedicated to delivering compassionate end-of-life care, I am a nurse deeply committed to ensuring the comfort and dignity of patients during their final journey. Inspired by the impactful experience of caring for my brother-in-law with the support of hospice, I am driven to provide the same one-on-one care in my nursing career. Rooted in the profound philosophy of hospice, I believe in encapsulating individuals and their loved ones with unwavering support. As a hospice nurse, I consider it a gift to contribute to the unique life stories of every individual and their families, making a difference in their end-of-life journey. I am honored to be part of an exceptional hospice team dedicated to holistic and compassionate care for those in need.
Elle Steffen, RN
Nurse
Throughout my nursing career, I have been dedicated to providing compassionate care during some of life’s most critical moments. After 5 years as an ICU nurse, I transitioned to hospice nursing in 2023. Through this role, I have found great fulfillment in helping patients and their families focus on comfort, dignity, and the quality of their remaining time together.
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With a background in nursing and psychology, I understand conversations about death and dying can be challenging. I believe that accepting our own mortality brings peace and meaning to our lives, and I strive to empathetically help people along this path.
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As a hospice nurse, I take the time to listen, and I prioritize dignity, respect, and honoring each patient’s wishes. It is a privilege to walk this journey with my patients and their loved ones, and I look forward to working with a team that views hospice as more than a profession, but rather a true calling.
Spencer Moffatt, MDiv, PhD
Chaplain / Bereavement Coordinator
As a hospice chaplain, I help people find meaning and peace in life’s final chapter. It’s an honor to walk alongside patients and their loved ones during this time, offering support as they process the journey ahead. I approach each conversation with compassion, openness, and curiosity, creating a space where people can reflect, share, and just be.
Every person carries a lifetime of experiences, emotions, and stories, and I feel privileged to be there for them in whatever way they need—offering warmth, understanding, and companionship.
Judith Mosoti, RN
Nurse
I am a hospice nurse with over four years of dedicated service, committed to providing compassionate care to patients in nursing homes and assisted living facilities. I am empathetic, culturally sensitive, and focused on delivering personalized care tailored to individual needs. I thrive in team environments and am always eager to learn.
Jim Clements
Nurse
"Hospice is not about dying, but about living each day that you have until your last."
— Dame Cicely Saunders, founder of the modern hospice movement
First, I want to thank you for allowing me the opportunity to share a little about myself.
I have been a registered nurse for 30 years—spending eight years in critical care, 14 years in the emergency department, and, since January 2016, dedicating the past eight years to hospice care. Like many who enter this field, my first experience with hospice was personal. When my mother was on her end-of-life journey, I witnessed firsthand the profound impact of hospice care. That experience inspired me to become a hospice nurse, and it has been the most meaningful and fulfilling chapter of my nursing career.
Hospice care allows me the privilege of building relationships with individuals and families, witnessing their incredible strength and resilience in the face of life’s most challenging moments. Every encounter has touched my heart.
I am deeply grateful to be part of a hospice team made up of compassionate, skilled, and dedicated professionals who selflessly provide care that meets not only the physical needs of those we serve but also their emotional and spiritual needs.
My desire is to get to know you and your family. My hope is to provide the care, support, and guidance that will bring comfort and promote quality of life during this important chapter of your journey.
Samantha Colleran, CSW
Social Worker
From working in social work at a nursing home and as a manager at an assisted living facility, I have gained experience in hospice and end-of-life care. I believe that every patient's end-of-life care experience should be tailored to their unique needs and wishes, honoring their dignity and choices. I am committed to ensuring each patient feels valued and understood while providing compassionate support to both the patient and their families. My passion for hospice drives my dedication to working with an exceptional team focused on creating the best person-centered care.
Christa Kletscher, CNA
Nursing Assistant
As a passionate Certified Nursing Assistant specializing in hospice care, I am dedicated to providing compassionate support to patients and their families during life’s most challenging moments. With five years of experience in hospice, I understand the importance of holistic care that honors each individual’s unique journey. In my role, I focus on creating a nurturing environment where patients feel valued and respected. I assist with daily living activities while prioritizing comfort, dignity, and emotional well-being. My approach is centered on building meaningful connections, allowing me to provide not just physical assistance but also heartfelt support
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At Lake Valley Hospice, we are dedicated to making a positive impact in the lives of those we serve. It is an honor to accompany patients and their families on this journey, providing them with the care, compassion, and respect they deserve.
Eva Brown, MT-BC
Music Therapist
As a Board Certified Music Therapist I understand the influence that music has in everyone’s life, and how music can be implemented to help our patients and their loved ones transition through this stage of life. I’ve had the pleasure of working with a hospice organization in California while completing my undergraduate degree, and discovered my passion of working in end-of-life care. With music, we are able to provide comfort, joy, and closure to the patients and their families during a challenging time. I am grateful that I’m able to work with such a dedicated and experienced team to bring the best care to each patient we serve.
Kimber Fournier, NCTMB
Massage Therapist
As a Nationally Certified Massage Therapist with over 30 years of experience, I have had the privilege of working with thousands of individuals across diverse backgrounds and settings. I am a proud member of NCTMB and ABMP, and my passion for healing touch has only deepened over the years.
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Joining this dedicated hospice team is especially meaningful to me, as we all share profound experiences with death and dying. I believe in the power of touch to bring comfort, connection, and peace in life’s final journey. Through gentle touch, a warm smile, and compassionate hands, I am committed to serving the hospice community and fostering meaningful relationships along the way.
Tara Nepstad, CNA
Nursing Assistant
I am a Certified Nursing Assistant with over 25 years of experience working in Long-Term Care, Transitional Care, Home Care, and Hospice and Palliative Care.
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Through the years as a Nursing Assistant, I’ve had the privilege of caring for, getting to know, and building relationships with numerous patients and their families. I am committed to caring for each individual with compassion and empathy, focusing on their comfort, dignity, and quality of life as they approach the end of their journey. I believe that each patient has their own unique and special end-of-life experience.
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I believe that every end-of-life journey is special, and I am committed to fulfilling each individual’s wishes, needs, and wants in their own unique and meaningful way.
I am honored to be part of a wonderful, compassionate, and caring hospice team.
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Koren Willetts, MDiv
Chaplain
As a hospice chaplain, I bring a wealth of experience and a profound commitment to providing spiritual care to individuals and families navigating the challenging journey of end-of-life care. Equipped with a Master of Divinity degree, my academic foundation has empowered me with the theological insight and spiritual care skills essential for fostering comfort and solace during times of profound transition. Recognizing the unique needs of those under my care, I specialize in integrating pet therapy into my spiritual support services. Understanding the powerful comforting potential that the companionship of animals can offer, I have seamlessly woven this therapeutic modality into my approach.
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In my practice, I firmly believe that each person possesses absolute worth and value, regardless of their circumstances or health status. This core belief forms the foundation of my approach as a hospice chaplain, driving me to create an inclusive and affirming space where individuals are honored for the entirety of their lives. Through a deeply empathetic and person-centered approach, I strive to meet individuals where they are, recognizing the diverse spiritual and emotional landscapes that shape their unique experiences. In honoring the inherent dignity of each person, I seek to provide a source of strength and comfort, facilitating a sense of peace and resolution as they navigate the profound and sacred moments at the end of life.
VOLUNTEERS
Bethany Hutchinson
Volunteer
I have spent many years working with people living with trauma, loss, disability and grief in my role at Mind Body Solutions yoga and am honored to now serve individuals through Lake Valley Hospice. Having witnessed the incredible care provided to my grandmother by hospice at the end of her life, I strive to offer the same compassion, dignity and understanding.
Jason Reeves
Volunteer
After retiring from the United States Army in July 2023 with the rank of Major, connecting with hospice veterans and caregivers has become a profound passion for me. The incredible narratives they share are invaluable treasures that deserve to be passed down to future generations. Their voices and experiences have shaped our nation and must be honored and preserved. My mission is to foster a sense of familiarity and respect for veterans; I am committed to providing them with a compassionate ear that not only listens but truly hears them. Together with my faithful pet companion Lena, we hope to bring moments of happiness and peace.
Sandra Reeves
Volunteer
I am honored to serve as a hospice volunteer. I believe that everyone deserves comfort, dignity, and companionship in their final journey, and I strive to provide that through my time with patients and their families. Whether it's sitting bedside, sharing stories, offering a listening ear, or simply being present, I want to bring warmth and reassurance to those in my care. It is a privilege to support patients and their loved ones during this tender time, and I am grateful for the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in their lives.
Patrick Shelton
Volunteer
Life is a team sport. I believe in lifting each other up, learning from one another, and showing up when it matters most. Hospice holds a special place in my heart. Having lost loved ones, I've witnessed firsthand the profound impact hospice care has on both individuals and those closest to them. It’s a privilege to be part of the Lake Valley Hospice team, supporting the incredible work they do and the people they serve each day.
Angela Verges
Volunteer
I volunteer in hospice care because I believe that every individual deserves companionship, dignity, and respect in all stages of life. I strive to be whatever each individual needs me to be during my time with them, whether that be a comforting presence, a listening ear, or a chatty companion. Nobody should face their final journey alone, and through my role at Lake Valley Hospice, I am honored to provide the community that every person deserves.
Skeelohs
Hello, my name is Skeelohs, the friendly 8-year-old Mini-Golden Doodle with special training from the Pet Partners Therapy Animal Program. My mission is to bring joy and comfort to our wonderful patients and caregivers. When I visit, I pay close attention to their cues and do my best to make them feel better.
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You see, I have a unique talent. I can help ease physical pain by providing a pleasant distraction, and I'm pretty good at calming anxiety too. My ultimate goal is to lift spirits and bring some sunshine to your day!