By Mary Malloy
Named after lifelong East Rockaway residents Marguerite (Peg) and Bob Wilson, the garden honors the couple's generous support of the hospital for more than three decades.
"All these years, we wanted to give something back to the community," said Peg. "[The hospital] is like my second home." Avid gardeners themselves, it seemed only appropriate to name the garden after the couple.
The Wilsons have been East Rockaway residents for more than 60 years, and two of their three daughters, Kim and Meg, were born at South Nassau. The eldest, Beth, was born out of state.
"For over 45 years we have provided for our own family, and the hospital is something that is close to our hearts," said Peg Wilson. At home, the Wilsons grow flowers and evergreens - and Peg recently harvested a bumper crop of tomatoes. "They're beautiful this year," she said.
The Wilsons have been members of the hospital's Tower and President's clubs, and have supported many capital campaigns. They have participated in almost every fundraising event at South Nassau, from the Gardenia Days to the Carnation Ball.
"Mr. and Mrs. Wilson have been loyal friends and supporters of South Nassau's mission and vision to meet the health care needs of our communities," said Joseph A. Quagliata, the hospital's president and CEO. "We are grateful for their generosity and ongoing support, and thank them for devoting their time, talent and treasure to South Nassau's growth and expansion."
In 1999, the Wilsons were the recipients of the hospital's Mary Pearson Award, which honors individuals for extraordinary effort and contributions that significantly advance the hospital's commitment to compassionate care and standard-setting health care services.
In addition to raising a family and volunteering at the hospital, Peg Wilson was also active in Girl Scouts and the 4-H Club. For more than 45 years, she has been the captain of a team of volunteers that serve at the hospital on Wednesdays. She was also the volunteer manager of South Nassau's thrift store for 25 years when it was based in Rockville Centre.
Bob Wilson is the founder of John P. Tilden LTD, a company that insures oceangoing vessels, and was its president and CEO for more than 40 years. A World War II B-24 pilot, he flew 52 missions over the South Pacific.
"Considering their continued commitment and support of South Nassau's growth and their passion for gardening, the dedication of the Marguerite and J. Robert Wilson Garden is even more meaningful," said Elizabeth Nardone, the hospital's vice president of development.
"Words alone can't express the hospital's gratitude for the Wilsons' generosity. We are very pleased to name the garden in honor and recognition of the good works of the Wilsons."
Anyone can purchase engraved bricks, wall tiles or a garden bench to be placed in the Wilson Garden. This is a great way to honor or memorialize a family member or friend, or commemorate a special event such as a birth date or an anniversary, said a hospital spokesman.
For more information about the brick, wall tile, or garden benches, or to discuss other naming opportunities at the hospital, call South Nassau's Development Office at (516) 377-5360.
Comments about this story? MMalloy@liherald.com or (516) 569-4000 ext. 202.
