By Lori EhdeLuverne’s Troy Thone was honored Tuesday with the Rotary Centennial Service Award for Professional Excellence.The award is intended for a non-Rotarian who is an established member of his or her profession, who demonstrates high ethical standards and who has achieved professional distinction.Luverne Rotary Club member Curt Bloemendaal nominated Thone for the award."I have known Troy for several years, and I am continually amazed at his willingness to contribute to society in addition to a heavy workload," Bloemendaal wrote in his nomination.The award was established in honor of Rotary Club International’s 100-year anniversary, and all clubs were encouraged to nominate individuals from their communities.Of the 40 clubs in District 5610, eight nominations were approved for the award.In his nomination letter, Bloemendaal mentioned Thone’s achievements at work and in the community.Thone graduated from Luverne High School in 1994 and attended St. Cloud State University.He works as a software configuration analyst for Berkley Technology Services in Luverne. He is responsible for implementing software releases for the WR Berkley Corp, a $1.5 billion property and casualty insurance company."He has a big job and plays a big role in the company," Bloemendaal said.Thone’s contributions to the community include his role as a certified paramedic with the Rock County Ambulance Service and as a local CPR instructor and defibrillator trainer. He also actively promotes local blood donation.He’s involved with his church, where he volunteers as a pianist and choir member, Sunday school teacher and Bible school teacher and has served as church financial secretary and is on the missions committee and AWANA."Troy is committed to improving life in our community," Bloemendaal said. He and Luverne Rotary Club President Nate Golla presented Troy with the award during their Tuesday meeting at the Blue Mound Banquet Center.
