On October 5, residents, tenants, associates, family members, and friends of Mary Jo Cournia gathered for a sidewalk dedication and blessing. Mary Jo (or as most knew her, “MJ”) died in February 2021 after living at Benedictine Living Community for 15 years. MJ was always helping others, looking out for those that needed special care, watering or planting a plant, delivering the mail, and so much more.
As a memorial tribute to MJ and to continue her care and concern for Benedictine Living Community, MJ’s Family donated funds necessary to install additional sidewalks on the Benedictine Living Community campus. In early July, on the south and east side of the Benedictine Living Community, J.D. Concrete, LLC poured safe and accessible sidewalks for all to use and enjoy.
Since the sidewalks have been poured, resident and their visitors, Little Villagers Day Care teachers and children, and many Crookston community members have used the newly poured sidewalks. Cindy Hulst, Benedictine Living Community Foundation Development Director, said, “Having the additional sidewalks on our campus is a nice option for our residents, tenants, and their visitors to enjoy the outdoors and have safer access to the Ray Ecklund Park. Thank you, Cournia Family.”
