Hospital says goodbye to McGann after 40 years

PLAINS – In 93 years of life Gloria McGann spent over 40 of those at Clark Fork Valley Hospital. She had been there from the beginning and finally has called it quits.

Over her 40 years she has developed her system at the hospital. She has her way of doing things and it’s how it ought to be done.

“Gloria has always been awesome to work with,” coworker Bobbi Felix said. “As long as you do things her way.”

Felix has spent the last seven years working with her. She can take credit for the surprise party.

“I knew she was retiring and said you should have something for her,” Felix said. “So I guess it was my kind of idea.”

McGann has been a staple at the Clark Fork Valley Hospital. Everyone in the room knows they are going to miss her although her retirement may be short lived if she comes back to see everyone like she promised.

“I’m going to miss her,” said Dr. Greg Hanson. “We’re going to hang photos of her around the hospital so no one will forget her.”

McGann promised to come back and visit everyone. She hopes her visits are short so she can enjoy not being at the hospital as much anymore

“I’m going to do whatever I want,” McGann said. “I think I’ve earned it now.” This is not McGann’s first time retiring, or even her second. I guess it is true that the third time is the charm for her.

“I’m going to spend some time in Columbia Falls,” McGann said. “I’ll have plenty to do. I have my crosswords, puzzles, scrabble and I’ll be at my daughter’s house.”

Her daughter, Lee Bell, does not know if her retirement will last.

“She’ll probably be bored in about three weeks,” Bell said. “She’ll be spending time between my house and Plains so hopefully she stays busy.”

McGann did not think going to the cafeteria was odd for someone’s birthday. Clark Fork Valley Hospital provides a dinner for employees on their birthday. McGann entered the cafeteria expecting her birthday dinner. To her surprise she was greeted with a room full of people. Even more of a surprise, her daughter had come down from Columbia Falls to surprise her.

“I was surprised, completely surprised,” McGann said. “They did a good job of hiding it.”

To keep McGann busy she was given a few gifts as her going away present. She was given several puzzles, crossword puzzle books, and a Clark Fork Valley Hospital jacket.

After more than 40 years, McGann does not hold the changes over the years near and dear to her heart.

“Oh, I would not know about the changes,” McGann said. “I’m not a real sentimental person, so I don’t pay attention to those sorts of things.”

McGann had worked all over the hospital. She started in central supply, worked in surgery, spent two days working on the floor, and spent her remaining years in the records office.

“I guess I’m going to have to come back and see some people now,” McGann said. “Everyday according to some people. I don’t think they have anything left for me to do in the records office anymore.”

Her working career may be over, but she hopes to continue being as productive as she can be. McGann hopes to take the time to enjoy life.

“I plan on doing what I want,” McGann reiterated. “As long as I stay productive. That is what is important.”