By: Jan Coopman

San Angelo resident and long-time American Red Cross volunteer passed away on October 1, 2024. Retired U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Jane Lee Wurtenberg passed had donated more than 4,000 hours of her time to the Red Cross helping provide financial assistance cards to other volunteers who would then give them to families in need.

Wurtenberg’s dedication earned her the Red Cross President's Volunteer Lifetime Service Award. With her military background, Wurtenberg encouraged self-sufficiency yet still encouraged many to engage the Red Cross for help.

“Jane exemplified how a volunteer can truly make an important impact on the life of others, regardless of one’s circumstances,” Jennifer Cato, Red Cross North Texas regional client care program manager said.

Indeed, while homebound, Wurtenberg lived out her dedication to others by using her phone and computer to track important Red Cross activities and foster preparedness in her region. For instance, she led a project to raise awareness among teachers in North Texas school districts about the Red Cross Youth Preparedness Programs.

“They’re designed to teach students how to stay safe during emergencies, including how to safely evacuate their homes in the event of a fire. Her work greatly helped to ensure students’ safety,” said Cato, “and it also demonstrated that there are various ways to make a positive impact on others.”

Wurtenberg is survived by her brother-in-law, Edward G. Katchuk and her eight nieces and nephews. Memories and condolences may still be shared in her guestbook at www.macpersonfh.com.