Ken Weihe, 84, has been named the Distinguished Nursing Home Resident of the Year by the Kansas Health Care Assn.

The award recognizes leaders living in retirement communities. Weihe resides at the Pioneer Ridge Health Center in Lawrence.

“I was surprised by the award, to say the least, and very pleased,” Weihe said. “I feel like I’m held in high regard by the staff and the people here at Pioneer Ridge.”

Staff members said Weihe was involved in several activities and many times would be among the first to greet new residents.

“It makes me feel good to help others,” Weihe said. “I like to give people encouragement and hope.”

The Kansas Health Care Assn. is a statewide nonprofit association. It represents more than 200 long-term care providers.