FOUNDER, PRESIDENT

Barb Matheny, a dedicated educator of 31 years within the Findlay School District, retired in 2007 and embarked on a new journey that unexpectedly led her to confront Parkinson's Disease in January 2021. What started as a tremor in her hand unfolded into a three-year exploration of resilience and determination in the face of this condition. Barb's battle with Parkinson's not only fueled her quest for knowledge but also inspired her to become a fervent advocate. Collaborating with a colleague similarly affected by Parkinson's, she testified before the Ohio Senate Health Committee, contributing to the passage of SB 99, establishing a PD registry in Ohio. Additionally, representing the Michael J. Fox Foundation, Barb advocated for passing the National Act to End Parkinson's in the House.Amidst her advocacy endeavors, Barb remains deeply connected to her family. Her husband, Dan, owns The Wine Merchant, while her son, Patrick, is a Marathon lawyer. Patrick, his wife Nikki, and their three children are cherished in Barb's heart, providing endless joy and inspiration. Beyond her family, Barb's commitment to empowering individuals affected by Parkinson's led her to establish the Hancock County Parkinson's Network, driven by a vision to offer support and foster a compassionate community for those navigating similar challenges.

VICE PRESIDENT

Linda DeArment, retired from Blanchard Valley Health System as Chief Development Officer for the Health Foundation (2007-2017) and Director of Medical Staff Development (2017-2021). Her extensive community engagement spans various boards and councils, including the United Way Community Solutions Team, Ohio Association for Community Leadership, and more. Honored with accolades like the 2007 Athena Award and the 2009 Distinguished Leadership Award for Hancock County, she continues her commitment to service. Presently, Linda serves as a Eucharistic Minister at St. Michael’s, mentors through Children’s Mentoring Connection, and contributes to the Parkinson’s Community Action Committee. Residing in Findlay with her husband, Dan, Linda is a proud mother to Christina, residing in Beaverton, Oregon with her husband Sam, and Danielle, living in Naples, Italy with her husband Aaron.

TREASURER

Bob George was born and raised in Delaware, Ohio. He attended Bowling Green State University, graduating in 1987 with degrees in Management Information Systems and Accounting. He worked at Marathon Petroleum Corporation in various capacities including accounting, auditing and various management positions before retiring in 2020 with over 32 years with the company. Bob is a veteran of the US Army National Guard where he served from 1984 to 1990. Bob lives in Findlay and is married to Barb George and has a daughter, son and three step sons.

SECRETARY

Rich Fowler is a seasoned professional with 30+ years of experience in business process and practice building in both private and charity sectors. As a former broadcaster, I've actively supported causes like Komen Race for the Cure, domestic violence prevention, personal safety, and hot air ballooning, driven by a belief that giving back is both a duty and a joy.

With extensive experience in the software industry, I specialize in helping partners of all sizes and sectors achieve their goals. My deep understanding of the partner channel ecosystem allows me to provide unique and effective solutions tailored to your specific needs. Committed to building strong client relationships, I strive to exceed expectations in delivering results.

Thrilled to join the Hancock County Parkinson’s Network, I'm eager to contribute to our local community's impact. Together, I believe we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of many.

BOARD MEMBER

William H. Kose, MD, JD, serves as vice president of special projects at Blanchard Valley Health System (BVHS). Previously, he has served the health system as chief medical officer of Blanchard Valley Medical Practices from 2012 to 2019, senior vice president of medical affairs from 1991 to 2012 and chief quality officer from 2012 to 2017. Prior to his employment at BVHS, he co-founded Blanchard Valley Medical Associates (BVMA) and practiced internal medicine from 1974 to 2002. Dr. Kose obtained his medical degree from The Ohio State University and completed his internship and residency at Riverside Hospital in Columbus, Ohio. While practicing internal medicine at BVMA, he obtained his law degree from Ohio Northern University in 1985. Dr. Kose currently serves on the Hancock County Board of Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health Services (ADAMHS). He is also a Baldrige Examiner for the Ohio Partnership for Excellence, a member of the Ohio State Medical Association and the Ohio Patient Safety Institute.

BOARD MEMBER

Barb has spent the majority of her life living and working in Findlay. She spent 16 years at Marathon Oil Company, took a few years off to raise 3 sons, went back to work for Findlay City Schools as the Athletic Administrative Assistant, and retired in 2015. Barb was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2013 and has spent the past 10 years learning to live a new normal. She is married to Bob and they have 5 perfect kids, a beautiful daughter-in-law, handsome son-in-law, 3 cats, and a dog. Having this great support system, a positive attitude, and exercising as much as possible are the main things that help her live with a PD diagnosis. One day at a time…

BOARD MEMBER

Sue Lehman has been actively engaging in collaborative opportunities to improve the quality of life for vulnerable populations in Hancock County since 2009. Sue is the CEO of Findlay Hope House, a non-profit organization that provides housing services for the homeless and those facing housing instability. Sue firmly believes that wonderful things can be achieved with teamwork and a united effort towards the mission at hand. Sue was presented with the 2021 Nonprofit Leader of the Year award, is a 2014 graduate of the Hancock Leadership Program, a Findlay Rotarian, a member of Handbags That Help and serves on the Hancock County Children’s Services Advisory Board and the Challenged Champions Board of Directors. Sue loves adventure and traveling, especially when it is with her family. (Which includes nine adorable grandchildren!)

BOARD MEMBER

Dr. Lofquist was born & raised in Oregon, Ohio attended Heidelberg University in Tiffin and majored in Athletic Training. He then continued his education at Logan University in St. Louis, Missouri where he earned his Master’s in Science for Sports & Exercise Rehabilitation and Doctorate in Chiropractic. As a part of his degree he completed an internship with The Ohio State University’s Strength and Conditioning Department where he had rotations with the Men's and Women's Volleyball, Hockey and Basketball, Track & Field, Softball, Football, as well as COSI’s “Labs on Life” exhibit featuring different modalities in Human Performance. He has been in practice in Findlay since 2009.

BOARD MEMBER

Dave Braun has lived in Arlington with his wife, Bonnie, and their German Shepherd, Atticus, for several years. With over 48 years in the flour milling industry, he has chaired national organizations and worked across the U.S., Mexico, and China. A University of Findlay graduate, he earned his Bachelor's in 2006 and MBA in 2007.

After completing 50 marathons, Dave's journey with Parkinson's began about a year and a half ago. Now focused on raising awareness, he values the support offered at 50 North, where Parkinson’s programs and a support group help others like him. Dave’s positive outlook inspires all, as he says, “Each day is a gift.”