When Joe Bird, a Fond du Lac native, passed away in early April, he left behind more than memories – he left a legacy. His final act of generosity, a $612,100 estate gift to the Agnesian HealthCare Foundation, was not just a gift. It was a reflection of a life lived in quiet service, thoughtful leadership, and unwavering integrity.
“We appreciate the generosity of Joe and for his incredible support that will help us continue to meet the growing need of the communities we serve,” according to Mason Gravelle, Philanthropy Development Manager, Wisconsin Region, Agnesian HealthCare Foundation. “Joe was very supportive of the communities where he lived and left an example of selfless giving.”
Joe was never one to seek the spotlight.
“Joe was someone you could always count on,” according to Maggie McCullough, Joe’s sister. “If someone needed help, he would do what he could to help. He listened more than he talked. He got the facts, and then it came down to values and integrity.”
That approach defined his work on various boards, including the St. Francis Home Board of Directors and the Agnesian HealthCare Foundation Board of Directors.
“Joe really appreciated hearing the stories of those seeking funds, understanding their needs, and ensuring that every dollar made a meaningful impact for patients or the community as a whole,” McCullough shares.
Joe’s generous gift reflects the type of person he was, according to Jack Twohig, Agnesian HealthCare Foundation Board of Directors Chairperson.
“As a lifelong resident of greater Fond du Lac and after a tour of Vietnam in the Army, Joe continued to embark on his service to other’s career,” Twohig shares. “2018 celebrated more than 30 years coaching golf for St. Mary’s Springs. Joe’s qualities demonstrated are his belief in young people as he developed many people beyond golf into life lessons. Joe was a teacher of commitment.”
So Joe’s gift truly reflects this lifelong commitment. “Joe, although someone soft spoken had his own vision. By his gifting he believed in the work of the Agnesian Health Care Foundation and that it aligned with his own vision. Joe was all about service to others as demonstrated by his personal commitment to multiple generations.”
Joe’s estate gift was the culmination of a lifetime of such moments. McCullough believes he would encourage others to give thoughtfully. “If you’re going to give money to an organization, really delve into their values, their history, and what they actually do.” For Joe, philanthropy wasn’t about recognition. It was about trust, alignment, and impact.
His gift will support the Agnesian HealthCare Foundation’s mission for years to come, but perhaps more importantly, it will inspire others to lead with heart, to listen deeply, and to give with purpose – just like Joe did.
The Agnesian HealthCare Foundation, a charitable tax-exempt organization, exists to accept, acknowledge and invest charitable gifts, grants and bequests to help meet the many health care needs of the people and communities served by SSM Health in the greater Fond du Lac area. To donate, visit [email protected] or call 920-926-5418.
