If you have been to any of the Hospice Dinner and Auctions you have undoubtedly experienced the passion of our volunteer spotlight couple. For the past 17 years, Glen and Linda Rairigh have offered a Saturday in March to ensure our auction goers have an exciting evening of friendly up bidding and humorous chiding to encourage higher bids. When Glen "hammers" thegavel, Linda records the high bidder and keeps a running tally of the auction bids. Recent figures show that the auction has brought in over $155,500.00 in the last 7 years, with each year bringing a new record.

Asked how he became involved with Eaton Community Hospice, Glen said, "I had a friend who was dying of a terminal Agent Orange infection who asked me to help him support the Hospice program that was benefiting him and his young family. After his death I approached Margaret Kyser, back when they had the small basement office in Charlotte, and offered to put on an auction for Eaton Community Hospice." Glen said ..."Auctions are what I know, and the best way I know how to help Hospice."

Glen and Linda enjoy collecting antiques and have one of the top 10 collections of colored aluminum Christmas Trees in the United States. During the holidays Glen & Linda invite people to their home, allowing them to view their unique antique collections. "I open up the house to anyone and we usually have a "theme" party with some good music, food and Michigan wines. For each person who comes, we make a donation to Hospice." So, the more people who attend, the better for Hospice!

Another way Glen and Linda contribute to Hospice is by donating their auction and appraisal services to families who wish to donate proceeds of their estates to Hospice. Glen and Linda remember fondly the fantastic Hospice supporters who have given freely of their donations of family antiques and estates to benefit the Hospice program.

Linda and Glen say that what impresses them the most are the people who decide to help Hospice. "We truly appreciate our friends who are suddenly getting involved in supporting Hospice." Glen said. In addition to the auction, Linda serves on our board of directors and is very active with other fundraising events in addition to the auction.

In their leisure time, Glen enjoys hosting "Antique Road Dinner Shows" where people bring an antique item with them. Glen describes the item to the audience and gives the owner a free appraisal. When they are not auctioning, they enjoy antiquing and vacationing in Mexico.