Jack Werner of Watkins and Gladys Bergstrom of Litchfield were named Meeker County’s Outstanding Senior Volunteers of the Year during the senior citizens program Friday at the Meeker County Fair.

Werner, 82, is a lifelong Meeker County resident, who is active in many organizations and clubs, as well as his church.

“He can be seen daily around town and if there is a need he will find a way to fill it,” Donna Whitcomb, Meeker Council on Aging coordinator, said about Werner. “He was instrumental in getting senior housing and meals for seniors in his hometown and will lend a hand to anyone in need.”

Bergstrom, 75, also is a familiar face in the community. She is active with senior dining in Litchfield and delivers meals to homebound seniors. She serves on various committees helping with lunches or organizing events such as the Christmas bazaar and ice cream social.

“If you’ve missed her at one of these locations, then surely you’ve seen her at the nursing home visiting friends, family or anyone she sees,” Whitcomb said.

Werner and Bergstrom said they were honored to receive the award.

“I’m absolutely surprised. I had no inkling,” Bergstrom said. “...I appreciate it. It’s really something.”

Each year, the Minnesota Board on Aging accepts nominations statewide for the Outstanding Senior Volunteer of the Year Award.

Meeker County annually honors a man and woman for the award. Their names are then submitted to the Minnesota Board on Aging, which will select a man and woman as the Minnesota Outstanding Senior Volunteer.

Volunteers play a vital role in Meeker County, Whitcomb said. They do a variety of tasks such as driving people to medical appointments, mentoring youth, helping with church and civic events and delivering meals.