SSM Health Waupun Memorial Hospital
June 30, 2026
SSM Health Waupun Memorial Hospital celebrates 75 years of caring with community celebration, legislative recognition
WAUPUN — SSM Health Waupun Memorial Hospital marked a historic milestone on June 28 as community members, caregivers, auxilians, volunteers, and local leaders gathered to celebrate the hospital’s 75th anniversary of serving Waupun and surrounding communities.
The public celebration featured refreshments, the unveiling of a new Agnesian HealthCare Foundation donor wall, and an opportunity to reflect on the hospital’s rich history and enduring commitment to compassionate, faith-inspired care.
During the event, Wisconsin State Senator John Jagler and State Representative Mark Born presented a special legislative proclamation recognizing the hospital’s 75 years of service and contributions to the health and well-being of the region, as well as a legislative proclamation celebrating the 41-year legacy of DeAnn Thurmer who is retiring July 1 after serving as president of SSM Health St. Clare Hospital – Baraboo, SSM Health Ripon Community Hospital, and SSM Health Waupun Memorial Hospital.
Founded on July 5, 1951, Waupun Memorial Hospital was established through the vision and support of local community leaders and the School Sisters of St. Francis. This mission was further strengthened in 1987 as sponsorship of the hospital was transferred to the Congregation of Sisters of St. Agnes and in 2018 becoming a part of SSM Health.
Over the past seven-and-a-half decades, the hospital has grown to provide nationally recognized care while continuing to serve as an essential health care resource for area residents.
“This anniversary celebration is truly a tribute to the generations of caregivers, volunteers, community leaders, and supporters who believed in the importance of having exceptional health care close to home,” according to Thurmer. “For 75 years, this hospital has been woven into the fabric of the Waupun community. We are deeply grateful for the trust our patients have placed in us and for the unwavering support that has allowed us to grow and evolve while remaining committed to our mission of caring for others.”
Representative Born praised the hospital’s lasting impact on the region. “SSM Health Waupun Memorial Hospital has been a cornerstone of this community for 75 years. Generations of families have depended on the hospital during some of life’s most important moments. This milestone reflects the dedication of countless caregivers, staff members and volunteers who have made a lasting difference in the lives of area residents. It is an honor to recognize their contributions and celebrate this remarkable achievement.”
Senator Jagler highlighted the hospital’s role in ensuring local access to quality health care. “For 75 years, Waupun Memorial Hospital has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to delivering high-quality care close to home. The hospital’s history reflects the strength of community partnerships and a shared commitment to serving others. We are proud to recognize this important milestone and congratulate everyone who has helped shape the hospital’s legacy of compassionate care.”
Throughout its history, SSM Health Waupun Memorial Hospital has achieved numerous milestones, including national recognition for quality care, more than 56 years of dialysis services, continued physician recruitment efforts, modernization projects, and expanded access to advanced technology and specialty services through its integration with SSM Health.
The celebration also provided an opportunity for community members to recognize Thurmer. Attendees learned about the newly established Art & DeAnn Thurmer Endowment Fund, which will support initiatives designed to enhance employee wellness, recognition, and engagement.
As SSM Health Waupun Memorial Hospital begins its next chapter, leaders say the organization’s focus remains unchanged. “Our caregivers and volunteers are the heart of this hospital and the reason we have been able to serve this community for 75 years,” according to Nicole Gill, SSM Health Ripon Community Hospital/SSM Health Waupun Memorial Hospital vice president, clinical administrator. “As we celebrate this milestone, we also look ahead with optimism and gratitude, committed to building on our legacy of exceptional care for generations to come.”
