Lucas Butler, CNA, was recently honored for his commitment to the Benedictine Mission with the 2025 Sister Claudia Riehl Living a Legacy award, presented at the Leadership Conference on September 11 in Duluth.
For nearly 20 years, Sister Claudia Riehl, OSB, dedicated endless energy, time and valuable expertise, to further the Mission and Core Values. In 2011, the Sister Claudia Riehl Living a Legacy recognition program was launched to recognize those associates who model her commitment.
Foundation Director Cassie Rudie shared Lucas’s nomination with fellow associates, “Lucas is a kind and respectful presence in our community; treating everyone he encounters, from residents and their families to fellow team members, with genuine care and dignity. He plays a key role in training new staff, taking time to ensure they feel confident and supported in their roles. He is always willing to lend a helping hand or offer a kind word, especially during busy or challenging moments, creating a sense of teamwork and trust among coworkers.” Rudie goes on to say, “Lucas is a strong advocate for both the residents we serve and the team members he trains. He ensures that each individual is treated with respect and fairness. Lucas takes the time to listen, speak up when needed, and support others in finding their voice. He approaches each moment with integrity and a deep sense of responsibility to do what is right.”
Executive Director Lindsey Erdman adds, “Lucas is incredibly hospitable and creates a warm, welcoming environment for everyone. He makes others feel seen, valued, and at ease. His kindness and approachable nature help foster a sense of community and belonging. I experienced it firsthand. When he took care of my Grandma he created a bond with her that made such a beautiful difference. He has a way of helping people find their smiles. He is one in a million.”
Jennifer Reitmeier, Human Resource Director notes that Lucas has been a dedicated member of the Benedictine family since 2020, serving in Bismarck ND prior to joining our Crookston team. “His deep understanding of our mission and consistent commitment are evident in everything he does. Lucas lives out the Benedictine values day in and day out—through his compassion, integrity, and unwavering service to all. His loyalty and dedication make him a true asset. His presence strengthens our team, uplifts our culture, and helps ensure we are delivering the highest quality of care and support to those we are honored to serve.”
When asked why Lucas does what he does? He responds with his trademark warm, genuine smile and a quick, “Because I love it. When my sweet Grandma Lucille was sick I wanted to learn more so being a Caregiver and it just happened.” Lucas enjoys traveling, visiting family and friends, dressing up for any occasion and hiking with his dog Patch. Lucas has a Culinary Arts Degree and considers himself a “Foodie”, enjoying new and interesting cuisine.
Previous recipients include: 2011 Bonnie Munn, 2012 Alice Drew, 2013 Roxanne Goulet, 2014 Rick Solheim, 2015 Peggy Wangen, 2016 Nancy Moser, 2017 Teresa Persson, 2018 Judith Meyer, 2019 Tammy Parkin, 2020 Jon Myrold, 2021 Nicole Volker, 2022 Ashley Kraft, Jennie Mason 2023 and Staci Wills 2024. Benedictine Living Community-Crookston, also known as Villa St. Vincent and The SUMMIT is a member of Benedictine, a nationally recognized Catholic, non-profit long-term care organization sponsored by the Benedictine Sisters of St. Scholastica Monastery, Duluth. Benedictine provides a full spectrum of health and housing services through its short-term care and rehabilitation centers, long-term care centers, assisted and independent housing and community-based services in Minnesota, Illinois, Missouri, North Dakota and Wisconsin. Additional information may be found at www.benedictineliving.org.