About The Gene & Irene Wockner Foundation
The Gene and Irene Wockner Foundation is dedicated to unlocking the potential in every child and nurturing the needs of seniors in our community. We strive to create a supportive environment that fosters growth, education, and connection for all ages, ensuring that every individual has the opportunity to thrive. Guided by our core values of compassion, inclusivity, and community empowerment, we aim to make a lasting impact on the lives we touch.
Meet Gene & Irene Wockner
Gene and Irene were married on August 3rd, 1925. They lived a life filled with love, grace, and generosity. In March of 1986, after Gene’s death, Irene was instrumental in starting the Gene and Irene Wockner Hospice Center. The Hospice Center has served more than 28,000 patients, bringing clinical excellence, compassionate care and comfort to those facing life-limiting illness in a respectful home-like environment.
Irene’s door was always open to everyone. She had a gift of loving each friend as her own family. In December of 2003, Irene Wockner passed away. Through the Gene and Irene Wockner Foundation, their love and generosity continues.
Our Mission
The Gene and Irene Wockner Foundation is committed to unlocking the potential in every child and nurturing the needs of seniors in our community.
Thank you for the generous support to Northwest School for Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing Children. Your contributions are making a significant and positive difference in the lives of students and families we serve.Sara Reyerson, COO, NWSDHH
Our Board
Fran Wockner
A life-long resident of Washington State, Fran Wockner has dedicated her career to nursing. As a Registered Nurse, she understands the importance of supporting her community. Throughout her career caring for patients of all ages, Fran developed a passion for holistic care. As a member of the Wockner family, she is honored to serve as a Board of Trustees member for the Gene and Irene Wockner Foundation, continuing their legacy of community support.
In her free time, Fran enjoys staying active and spending time with family and friends.
Betsy Maxwell
Betsy Maxwell is a program coordinator for a local municipality, focusing on developing programs and services that enhance the lives of older adults in the community. With a passion for advocacy and support, Betsy works to ensure that seniors have access to the resources they need to thrive.
In addition to her role as a program coordinator, Betsy serves as an acting trustee for the Wockner Foundation, where she contributes her expertise in community service and program development. Her commitment to fostering connections and improving the quality of life for older adults is evident in her endeavors.
When she’s not coordinating programs or serving on the foundation, Betsy enjoys traveling and spending time with family and friends.
Carolyn Klauser
Carolyn is delighted to have the opportunity to serve on the Board of Trustees for the Gene and Irene Wockner Foundation. Carolyn has worked in healthcare for over 25 years, developing and managing programs and serving as an educator for Overlake Medical Center and EvergreenHealth. She is passionate about serving the community’s needs and has had the opportunity to volunteer at several non-profit organizations and schools in the area.
Carolyn is a Washington native who grew up in King and Snohomish County. Carolyn attended Lake Washington High School, graduated from Western Washington University with a bachelor’s degree in Communication and Public Relations, and holds a Master’s degree in Healthcare Administration from Walden University.
In her leisure time, Carolyn finds joy in the company of her husband, three children, and extended family and friends.