Return to Archived Stories

Each year, the Paynesville Lions Club recognizes seniors at Paynesville Area High School for their volunteer work, both at school and in the community.

Senior Troy Gerding was given a Lions Service Award in March for his community service and volunteer efforts.

Troy, the son of Cindy Gerding and Dave Gerding, is a peer tutor and student aide at school. He also plays in the band, is captain of the speech team this winter, works for the yearbook, and has participated in one-act play and student council. He also is a member of the Letterwinners Club.

As a Boy Scout, Gerding has worked with the R.O.S.E. Center, with road ditch clean-up, and with younger scouts. Gerding earned his Eagle Award, the highest award in Boy Scouts, organizing a new trail at the Crow River Nature Park.

At St. Louis Catholic Church, Gerding has served as a eucharist minister and mass server, worked at church breakfasts, helped at Bible camp, sung in the youth choir, and participated in youth group. He has also taken a mission trip to Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in South Dakota, where they painted homes and worked with kids.

Gerding is the last senior to be recognized by the Lions this year with a service award. Seniors Amanda Bruntlett and Erica Wander were honored with Lions Service Awards in October; seniors Stephanie Louis and Katie Nelson were honored in November; and seniors Jeremiah Gleitz and Samantha Moser were honored in February.