From CNA to Maintenance Director, Michael Has Seen It All

Healthcare Heroes come from all corners of our centers, every department, and every role. Michael O’Flaherty is one of these healthcare heroes and is the Maintenance Director at La Crescent Health Services. He has been with this center for 43 years! He started working at the skilled nursing center at the age of 16 back in 1977, the same week that Elvis Presley died! 

Michael’s path began as a Certified Nursing Assistant for the first 9 years with the center. It was during this time that he also met his wife of 36 years, who at the time worked in the Dietary Department. After High School, Michael went to WWTC in La Crosse, WI and earned two degrees in Central Service and Marketing. He and his wife decided they wanted to stay in the La Crescent, MN area, so Michael applied for the position of Maintenance Supervisor at La Crescent Health Services. After he received his license to maintain the boiler, Michael was hired! 

Michael says, “I have met many, many great residents and staff over the years and have gotten to know how each department operates. I especially enjoy driving residents to their appointments in the facility van, because it gives me an opportunity to have one to one time with the residents.”

Michael now owns his home in La Crescent where he and his wife have raised two amazing children, Elyse and Keith. In his leisure time, Michael enjoys watching all the Minnesota sports teams, listening to classic rock music, and golfing. 

Michael keeps his spirits high because he truly enjoys what he does. He states, “Even in this time of COVID-19, it’s still a great field to work in but can’t wait until things get back to normal!”