Carrying on the Tradition of Giving

Roger Horchow and his daughters, Lizzie, Sally and Regen

An avid reader and warm, fatherly figure to many, Roger Horchow was well known and much loved. A published author and honorary recipient of the Yale University Doctorate of Humane Letters, Roger won two Tony Awards following his distinguished career in retail. His affection for his VNA Hospice nurses prompted him to give them books while they held his hand through the unknown and during his final days. Roger’s daughter, Lizzie describes the care they received, “When we needed it most, they made us feel at ease. Even after his passing, the nurse was so supportive helping us know what to do next.”

A proud sponsor of VNA Meals on Wheels for Thanksgiving for 15 years, Roger was a thoughtful philanthropist and began the Horchow family tradition of delivering Meals on Wheels prior to the death of his beloved wife, Carolyn, in 2009. “Dad felt like he wanted others to know they should give back,” says his daughter Regen. Roger led by example inspiring others to give, especially his three daughters, Lizzie, Regen and Sally, and his five granddaughters. His family saw the joy giving his time and treasure brought him. “He loved feeding people and caring for people,” says Sally.

Both Roger and his wife, Carolyn, were patients of VNA Hospice Care, and Roger told his daughters how much he benefited first as the spouse of a patient and then as the patient himself. After experiencing the attentive and compassionate care provided by VNA staff, Roger was inspired to continue his generosity by feeding homebound seniors. His family is now continuing this legacy of generosity through their gift in honor of their parents to VNA, which will continue to provide food and friendship for Thanksgiving Days to come. “We are so grateful that VNA exists and provided support when we needed it and how they help us serve others through Meals on Wheels,” says Lizzie.

If you have a loved one who has been impacted by the Visiting Nurse Association of Texas, establishing a memorial or tribute gift is a meaningful way to honor them or celebrate a special occasion, such as a birthday, while supporting our mission. Your memorial or tribute gift will be a lasting acknowledgement to your loved one and will make a difference. To learn more, contact Chris Culak at (214) 689-2601 or culakc@vnatexas.org.