What began as a vision rooted in compassion more than four decades ago continues to provide comfort and dignity to patients and families today through SSM Health at Home Hospice and its dedicated volunteers.

In 1977, Sister Mary Agreda Touchett, and Sister. Anne Jude Van Lanen, both with the Congregation of Sisters of St, Agnes, and Peg Cerny, began exploring the possibility of bringing hospice care to the Fond du Lac area, inspired by a model that emphasized caring for the physical, emotional, spiritual and social needs of those nearing the end of life.

That vision became reality in 1980 and has since grown into the Hospice Home of Hope, a 20-bed facility offering around-the-clock care in a peaceful, home-like setting.     

Today, volunteers remain at the heart of hospice care, providing companionship, support, and spiritual presence to patients and their loved ones. Among them are spiritual care volunteers who offer prayer, listening and reflection during some of life’s most meaningful moments.

Two of these volunteers, Sister Ruth Battaglia and Sister Josephine Goebel, continue the legacy of the Congregation of Sisters of St. Agnes by accompanying patients and families on their end-of-life journeys.

“I had often heard our sisters who volunteered at Hospice Home of Hope speak about the sacredness of journeying with people about to transition from this life,” according to Sister Ruth Battaglia. “Reverencing and respecting the dignity and faith of a dying person and their loved ones is a profound experience which deepens my faith and enriches my life.”

For Sister Josephine Goebel, the role is about connection, reflection, and sharing hope.

“Being a volunteer for Spiritual Care at Hospice Home of Hope allows me to listen to and share a small part of others’ lives at a critical time for them,” she says. “Reflecting with the residents on their life experiences can help them realize how worthwhile their existence on this earth has been.”

She often leaves each visit with gratitude for the experience and the connections made, reflecting on the impact of compassionate care for both patients and volunteers alike.

SSM Health at Home Hospice continues to welcome volunteers who feel called to serve, whether through spiritual care, companionship or support services such as meal assistance.

For more information about becoming a hospice volunteer, contact Kristin Moderow at 920-294-4481 or [email protected].

Sister Josephine Goebel (left) and Sister Ruth Battaglia (right) stand in front of the Courageous Initiative Award, presented to the Hospice Home of Hope by the Agnesian Healthcare Foundation in 2009. The award honors the vision and dedication of the Hospice Home of Hope founders – Sister Ann Jude Van Lanen, Viola “Peg” Cerny and Sister Mary Ageda Touchett – whose efforts helped bring compassionate hospice care to the Fond du Lac community.

Date posted: August 11, 2026