From Dairy Farming to Retirement Living in Westmoreland County

For decades, Harry and Libby Marker built their lives around a 250-acre dairy farm in Westmoreland County, just a fence away from Concordia at Bethlen. Their days started at 4 a.m. with milking, crop work and caring for their high-quality herd that supplied Turner’s Dairy in Pittsburgh. It was a life of discipline and purpose – one that also connected them with their son, neighbors and countless school and church groups who visited for farm tours.

But after years of hard work, Harry and Libby felt it was time for a new season. They sold the farm and soon began looking ahead to their future. That decision led them just two miles down the road, to a place that already felt familiar: Concordia at Bethlen.

Life on the Farm

Harry grew up on the farm where he and Libby eventually made their home.

“We always kept the place looking really nice,” Libby said. “We wanted people to be proud to drink our milk.”

Their son showed cattle at the fair, and Libby enjoyed welcoming visitors – especially children – to see the cows and learn about farming.

“Our cows knew which stall was theirs, and each one had their name printed above it. One little boy asked me when the cows came in, ‘Can they read?’” she said with a laugh. “The innocence of those questions made all the hard work worth it.”

For the family, farming wasn’t just a job. It was a lifestyle built around responsibility, community and faith.

A Leap of Faith into Retirement Living

After selling the farm, Harry and Libby stayed in their farmhouse for a few years before deciding it was time to downsize. They signed up for their retirement living cottage, buying their home sight unseen from the blueprints.

“We watched them build, but we didn’t actually see inside until it was finished,” Libby said. “We just trusted the process – and it was one of the best decisions we ever made.”

Related: Understanding Retirement Living: Is it Right for You?

Harry and Libby chose Concordia at Bethlen for its close-knit community and familiar setting just down the road from their farm. Today, they feel an extra sense of peace knowing that Concordia has financial stability and a large network of health care resources.

What Is Retirement Living in Westmoreland County?

Retirement living, also called independent living, is designed for older adults who want the freedom of a maintenance-free home while enjoying access to a welcoming community. At Concordia at Bethlen, residents live in cottages and benefit from social activities, wellness programs and optional services like medical transportation and housekeeping. It’s senior living with amenities that support independence and ease the burdens of homeownership.

Related: Questions to Ask at a Retirement Living Tour

Daily Life at Concordia at Bethlen

Now, life looks very different from the days of milking cows and harvesting corn. Harry and Libby’s home is modern and easy to maintain, with thoughtful details that make daily life simpler. When the refrigerator broke, the maintenance team replaced it the very next day.

“It’s such a relief not to have to worry about fixing things anymore,” Libby said. “That security means everything.”

They’ve also found a vibrant social life. From chats with neighbors in the gazebo to games of Mexican train dominoes and activities at the Bethlen Wellness Center, there’s always something to do.

“It really feels like family here,” she added.

Peace of Mind Through Every Stage of Care

While Harry and Libby live independently, they take comfort knowing Concordia at Bethlen offers a full continuum of care, including personal care (sometimes called assisted living), short-term rehabilitation and skilled nursing in Westmoreland County.

When Harry had a knee replacement, he spent time in personal care for recovery. Later, when a medical emergency landed him in the hospital, Concordia was able to quickly arrange for his next level of care.

“That’s what makes us feel secure,” Libby said. “If something happens, we don’t have to face it alone. Concordia is there for us.”

Libby herself once volunteered in the gift shop at the skilled nursing center, which gave her a firsthand look at the kindness and dedication of the staff.

“They’re always so helpful and caring,” she said.

For Harry and Libby, moving to Concordia at Bethlen wasn’t just about downsizing – it was about gaining the confidence that comes from living in a community with support available when needed. From quick maintenance fixes to transportation, wellness programs and higher levels of care nearby, Concordia has given them reassurance that they can continue living independently without worry.

More Time for What Matters Most

Life at Concordia has given Harry and Libby something their years on the farm seldom allowed: time to relax and pursue hobbies. Libby enjoys reading, playing games and attending activities at the Bethlen Wellness Center.

Related: Creative Retirement Living at Concordia

They’ve also appreciated the ability to travel without worrying about home maintenance.

“When we had the farm, even if we left, we would call home every night to make sure everything was okay,” Libby said. “Now, we don’t have to think twice. Someone is always here to take care of things.”

Advice for Others Considering Retirement Living

Now, at 90 and 81 and 14 years into their life at their retirement living cottage, Harry and Libby say they couldn’t have made a better choice for this chapter.

“It’s one of the best decisions we ever made,” Libby said. “At our age, what we needed most was security, community and peace of mind. And that’s exactly what we found here.”

For those who may feel hesitant about giving up a home, Libby has simple advice: “You don’t lose your independence when you move to a place like this. In many ways, you gain more, because the burdens are lifted and you have more freedom to enjoy life.”

Ready to Find Retirement Living in Westmoreland County?

Harry and Libby’s story reflects the heart of what Concordia at Bethlen offers: a secure, Christ-centered community where seniors can thrive. From independent living in Western Pennsylvania to personal care, long-term nursing care and short-term rehabilitation, Concordia at Bethlen serves Westmoreland County seniors with compassion, dignity and excellence.

Whether you’re considering a move for yourself or a loved one, Concordia is here to help you take the next step. Learn more about retirement living at Concordia at Bethlen and the other care levels and services we provide in Westmoreland County. If you’re ready to explore a lifestyle full of opportunity, contact us today through our online form or by calling us at 724-238-2235.

Finally, to learn more about our additional retirement living options in Western Pennsylvania and Eastern Ohio, contact our headquarters at 724-352-1571.

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Founded in 1881, Concordia Lutheran Ministries is a faith-based, CARF-accredited Aging Services Network and recipient of the inaugural Pennsylvania Department of Aging Excellence in Quality Care Award. As one of the largest nonprofit senior care providers in the country, the organization serves 50,000 people annually through in-home care and inpatient locations.