MILWAUKEE — A Wisconsin nurse is being honored and recognized after nearly five decades of service at one hospital.
Debbie Kenzler is retiring from her job at Ascension SE Wisconsin Hospital - St. Joseph Campus on Milwaukee’s north side. It’s the only hospital she’s worked at. She’s been there for the 45 years.
Kenzler said she had a mix of emotions as she packed up the last few things in her office.
“It’s bittersweet, very bittersweet,” Kenzler said.
She’s spent more than half her life at Ascension St. Joseph’s. It’s become a second home to her.
“It feels like I blinked my eyes and I have been here that long,” Kenzler said. “It does not feel that long at all.”
She started in the 1970s as a nurse in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. She said that role will always hold a special place in her heart.
“I’m going to miss it, but it’s always a good feeling,” Kenzler said. “It’s always been heartwarming to know what we have done for the infants, and to watch them grow.”
She advanced in her career to her current role, which is teaching younger generations as a national nurse educator.
On her final day of work, her coworkers and many of the people she taught wanted to honor her, so they threw her a retirement party.
Teresa Lass worked with Kenzler for nearly 30 years. She said Kenzler will be greatly missed and impossible to replace.
“I feel like I’m privileged to work with her,” Lass said. “It’s impressive and awe-inspiring. She’s just an inspiration.”
It’s not easy for Kenzler to say goodbye to her co-workers, who turned into family. However, she said she’s excited for what’s to come in retirement.
She also said she’s grateful to end her long career knowing she had a positive impact on the people she cared for and that she inspired others in the nursing field.