Kasey Paulus Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer | WellSpan Hospitals
Kasey Paulus Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer | WellSpan Hospitals
Bob Napp, a long-time resident of Union County, Pennsylvania, is about to celebrate his 100th birthday. In a unique coincidence, WellSpan Evangelical Community Hospital, a key healthcare provider in the region where Bob has spent his life, will also reach its century milestone next year. The Napp family and the hospital have shared significant history.
Bob's three children were born at the hospital, with some arriving at its original location, a historic home nearby. Among his descendants, his daughter Kay Bolduc served as a nurse, while his grandson Ryan Brown is currently the director of surgical services. His extended family has also been part of the hospital's workforce.
Both Bob and Ryan have the same family doctor, Dr. James Patterson from WellSpan Family Medicine in Lewisburg. Dr. Patterson emphasizes the importance of personal relationships in healthcare, saying, “Getting to know my patients and their families is so great. It helps me provide the best care for them. Those kinds of relationships are so important to me. It is one reason why I love what I do.”
Bob's life is closely tied to Union County. Born at home on Easter Sunday in 1925, Bob served in the Navy during World War II. He later had a diverse career, from road construction to aviation parts manufacturing, and also supported his wife's craft ventures.
Evangelical Community Hospital began in 1926 and moved to its current location in Lewisburg in 1953. It joined the WellSpan Health system in 2024. Bob and his family valued the hospital's services for various health issues, including surgery and treatment for conditions like COVID-19.
Bob has been a familiar face at the hospital, often receiving warm welcomes during visits, thanks to his World War II cap. “It’s perfect,” Bob shared about the hospital. “I like everything about the place.”
Ryan Brown contributes to the hospital's future, leading initiatives such as the hospital's robotic surgery program. Bob attributes his long life to activity and community involvement. Though he claims no secret to longevity, his family jokes about his varied diet and sociable nature.
As Bob anticipates his 100th birthday, his family is preparing a celebration, expecting a large turnout. “He wonders if 100 people will be there,” Kay commented. “There will be more than 100. Everyone knows them.” Reflecting on his life, Bob says, “The Lord has taken very good care of me. I am lucky.”
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