Family Owned Since 1949
Elizabeth Scott became a pioneer in the long-term care industry in 1949 when she began caring for residents in her converted farm home. Today, the Elizabeth Scott Community offers a continuum of care that includes Independent Living, two levels of Assisted Living, Skilled Nursing, and Skilled Rehabilitation – all on a single campus.
Elizabeth Scott Community - A Look Back
A True Pioneer
Elizabeth Scott, the founder of the Elizabeth Scott Community, graduated from Ohio Northern University and began her career as a teacher. She became active in the nursing field and worked as a psychiatric supervisor at the State Hospital. Elizabeth Scott eventually earned her Licensed Practical Nurse degree. In 1949, with the encouragement of physicians and friends, Elizabeth converted her farm home into a long-term care residence. Her facility would become the first to be licensed in northwest Ohio. That original farm home still serves as an integral part of our present-day facilities. Elizabeth Scott fought hard for improved State legislation for nursing homes and served as one of the five original members of the Ohio Nursing Home Association.
Second Generation
In 1961 Mary and Vern Bucher, Elizabeth’s daughter and son-in-law, purchased the Riverview Nursing Home in Waterville. After “getting their feet wet” in the industry, the Bucher’s purchased the Elizabeth Scott Community in 1976. During their ownership, Mary and Vern expanded the business while maintaining the family atmosphere. They employed all four of their children and most of their grandchildren, instilling in them the philosophy of founder Elizabeth Scott, “To care for residents like they are family.” Mary and Vern maintained their ownership until 1992, when they sold the Elizabeth Scott Community to their children.
Third Generation
As the grandson of our founder, Elizabeth Scott, Paul Bucher began his career at the Elizabeth Scott Community in 1976 by working in maintenance. In 1981 he moved to the administrative area where he assisted his parents who had become owners. He became the sole owner in 2007 and remains committed to fostering the family atmosphere established by his grandmother. His wife, Deb, serves as the Director of Human Resources. Deb held various roles in the human resources department at St. Luke’s Hospital before joining Elizabeth Scott.
Fourth Generation
Allyson Petersen, the daughter of Paul and Deb, began working at the Elizabeth Scott Community as a teenager in 2010. She initially worked as a Dietary Aid. Allyson then advanced to Prep Cook and eventually became our Dietary Services Manager in 2021.