The Leamington Mennonite Home (LMH) marked a shining milestone this past weekend as the community gathered to celebrate its 60th Diamond Anniversary — six decades of faith-based commitment, compassion, and community.
Held at Mastronardi Estate Winery, the Diamond Celebration brought together over 330 community members, residents, families, and supporters for a night filled with gratitude, joy, and reflection. The beautifully decorated venue, brought to life by The Flower Shop, sparkled as guests honoured the past, celebrated the present, and envisioned the next 60 years of service.
From its humble beginnings in 1965, LMH has grown into a cherished community serving 273 residents across its Long Term Care, Assisted Living Retirement, and Independent Living residences — including condos, apartments, and townhouses. It has become more than a place to live; it is, as residents often describe, a special dwelling place indeed.
Louise Cornies shared a heartfelt reflection about her family’s connection to the Home:
“My maternal grandmother, Aganetha Wieler, became one of the first residents of the Leamington Mennonite Home when it opened in 1965. For my family, it was a bittersweet moment — bitter in that my mother needed to give over the care of her beloved mother from the family circle in which she had always resided, to the care of others in a new ‘home’. Sweet in that this late-in-life change provided loving and compassionate care amongst a community of friends whose values echoed her own. We thank God for the vision, hard work, and financial support which brought the Mennonite Home into existence in 1965, and the blessings it has bestowed upon us until now in 2025.”
The Diamond Celebration was as vibrant as it was meaningful. Guests enjoyed live and silent auctions, a highlight diamond necklace generously donated by Wharram’s Jewellery, and a stunning live painting by onsite artist Ruth Driedger titled “Waiting for Grandpa”, capturing the warmth of family connection.
Laughter and love filled the room as attendees reminisced about LMH’s journey as a cornerstone of compassionate living in Leamington.
“Sixty years ago, a dream was realized as our Omas and Opas made that dream become a reality,” said Jeff Konrad, LMH Administrator. “All of you make Leamington Mennonite Home a very special place. We look forward to another 60 years.”
When the funds were tallied on Monday, officials were able to announce a net proceed of $110,000.
Those proceeds from the evening will support the Pickwick Apartment Renovation Project, ensuring that LMH continues to offer modern, accessible, and welcoming spaces for future generations. The project represents a tangible commitment to enhancing the lives of residents while staying true to the Home’s faith-driven foundations.
Local artist Ruth Driedger working on her painting “Waiting for Grandpa” at the event.
SUN photo by Mark Ribble
Mastronardi Estate Winery was adorned with all the bling, sparkle and shine expected for such a diamond celebration.
SUN photo by Mark Ribble
Portofino entertained against the backdrop of the LMH light display.
SUN photo by Mark Ribble
