Gemini Announces First Sharon Weinel Stewardship Award Winner

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CANNON FALLS, Minnesota - Bob Durdahl, a Customer Service Representative in Cannon Falls, has been named the first recipient of the company’s Sharon Weinel Stewardship Award for his caring for others and commitment to community service.

Each year, the award will recognize a Gemini team member with a $25,000 donation to an organization of the award recipient’s choice, given in the recipient's name. The donations will be made based on the merits of Gemini team members who demonstrate Gemini's Stewardship core value, live in service of others, and make noteworthy volunteerism contributions above and beyond what is reasonably expected of a person. Durdahl has chosen to divide his donation between two organizations -

$20,000 to St. Ansgar’s Lutheran Church and $5,000 to American Legion Post 142.

Sharon Weinel, the wife of Jim Weinel, was the co-founder of Gemini. Sharon was the common thread and heart of Gemini. She was known for her generosity and unwavering commitment to the community. Her values of humility and graciousness left a mark on many lives. She passed away in February 2022.

"Sharon was one of the inspirations for the Gemini value of Stewardship and was always generous to those in need," said Frederick Oss, Gemini CEO. "She touched a lot of lives over the course of years that she was involved with the company and really helped make it what it is today. We believe this award program honors her life of service."

Gemini team members nominated Durdahl as the award recipient. He has demonstrated Weinel's values of kindness, humility, grace, and generosity through his work with many organizations, including the Cannon Falls Mason’s, Color Guard, Veteran’s Honor Guard, American Legion, VFW, and St. Ansgar’s Lutheran Church.

"I nominated Bob because he gives unconditionally," said Gemini team member Colleen Charnell. "It is not for accolades or positions of power, but to truly serve and show honor to those around him. Bob is a truly selfless person that gives his time and himself because of the values and passion that are embedded in him to make a difference."

Five other finalists were selected, each receiving a $5,000 donation to give to a charity of their choice.

Finalist, Gemini Location, and Organization Selected for Donation:

Amy McDonald, Neustadt, ON, Launch Pad

Arun Singh, Cannon Falls, MN, Asian Women United of Minnesota (AWUM)

Deb Norstad, Cannon Falls, MN, MN Lions Childhood Cancer Foundation

Megan Tellinghiusen, Liberty Lake, WA, Fantasy Flight

Mike Tollefson, Decorah, IA, Northeast Iowa Wrestling Club