Denver, Colo., Aug 3, 2011 / 16:03 pm
The Knights of Columbus awarded top honors to three Catholic families who have shown exceptional service to their surrounding communities.
Ronald and Elizabeth Simurdiak of Phillips, Wisconsin were named the International Family of the Year by the knights during the group's 129th convention in downtown Denver from Aug. 2-4.
The Simurdiaks mortgaged their family farm to purchase property that was transformed into a St. Vincent de Paul Thrift store for low income individuals. The whole family – including 19-year-old Joesph, 17-year-old John, and 9-year-old Jenna – worked together to raise funds for the effort.
Parents Ronald and Elizabeth also volunteer as teachers on a Native American reservation and assist with catechism and confirmation classes at their parish.