It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Ed Kimmich, a cherished member of the We Care Arts family. Serving as our Board Treasurer since 2009, Ed was not only a dedicated leader but also an embodiment of kindness and patience. His presence and contributions have indelibly shaped our organization, and his loss will be profoundly felt by all who knew him.
A Legacy of Service
Ed’s tenure as treasurer was marked by unwavering dedication and a commitment to the mission of We Care Arts. His financial acumen and strategic insight were instrumental in guiding our organization through numerous challenges and successes. Ed’s leadership on the board was characterized by his thoughtful approach and an ability to inspire confidence in those around him.
Katie Neubert, Executive Director of We Care Arts and Devon Stinson, board President, reflect on Ed’s significant impact:
"Ed Kimmich was a steady and trusted presence at We Care Arts for more than 15 years. As Board Treasurer, he brought wisdom, integrity, and unwavering dedication to our mission, but more importantly, he brought kindness. During some of the most challenging moments in our organization’s history, including the uncertainty of COVID, Ed was someone we could always count on for thoughtful guidance, calm perspective, and steadfast support. He had a wonderful dry sense of humor and a servant’s heart. Whether he was rolling up his sleeves to tackle the hard work of governance or graciously wearing one of our artist-clients’ handmade Derby hats with a smile, Ed showed up fully for this community. Ed believed deeply in the healing power of art and in the potential of every person we serve. He showed us what servant leadership truly looks like: to lead with humility, to serve with compassion, and to always make room for dignity, patience, and humanity. His legacy will continue to shape We Care Arts for years to come, and I will miss him greatly."
"Ed was a true champion of We Care Arts, and his dedication over the years to our mission and the Board will be sorely missed."
Devon Stinson, Board President
Brenda Thieman, our bookkeeper since 2012, fondly recalls Ed’s supportive nature during her early days at We Care Arts. In her own words:
"Once I took the bookkeeping position here at We Care Arts, I was offered assistance from Ed Kimmich, our Board Treasurer. Since I did not have a lot of computer knowledge on accounting but had experience in bookkeeping, he was very patient and kind in assisting me. In my early days I had to call the Bureau of Workers Comp to let them know we had missed a couple of payments, which Ed found. When I called them, they loudly told me that was not acceptable and that I should know better. The person kept talking and wouldn’t let me explain the change in staff. I was so upset, I just hung up. When Ed came in the next day to see how the payments would need to be paid, I explained the very loud and unkind person I spoke with and that I finally hung up. He asked me if I got a name and I said yes. He said, 'Let’s call them back and ask for him. I will sit here and we will talk to him together.' So I did, and the person was just as loud and unkind as before. Ed just waited patiently until the person was done talking and then jumped in to introduce himself and explain the change in staff and that we would make the payments and just needed to know how to go about it, that’s all. The tone changed to kind and willing to accept payments. I wish I could have bottled Ed’s patience! He was a pleasure to work with."
Brenda’s story is just one of many that highlight Ed’s ability to transform tense situations with his calm demeanor and compassionate approach. His interactions left a lasting impact, teaching those around him the power of patience and understanding.
