Indy Standard

Markleville residents Wayne and Jan Fox have been recognized with the Golden Hoosier Award for their volunteer service, as announced by State Representative Bob Cherry. The couple was among 17 Indiana seniors honored during a ceremony at the Statehouse.

Rep. Cherry joined Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch and leaders from the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration's Division of Aging to present the awards. "Wayne and Jan have been committed to our community and state throughout their lives," Cherry stated. "I'm proud to help honor them for their countless contributions and recognize the positive impact they have made on Madison County."

Wayne Fox serves as president of the town park board, organizing community activities with proceeds benefiting the park. He also established Markleville's Veterans Park in memory of a friend who died in Vietnam, which he maintains with his wife, Jan. Jan is involved with the Psi Phi Chapter of Kappa Delta Psi service sorority and serves on the Pendleton Historical Museum board.

The Foxes spearheaded funding for a new multipurpose community center that will be named in their honor, acknowledging their support over many years.

Established in 2008, the Golden Hoosier Award honors older residents whose volunteer efforts positively impact their communities. Nominees must be at least 65 years old, Indiana residents, and have volunteered for at least three years.

Presented by Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch in partnership with the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration's Division of Aging, this award is considered the highest honor for Hoosier seniors.

To date, over 200 citizens have received this recognition since its inception.