Joe Lueken Cancer Center Rising in Bemidji for Sanford Health
Over the course of 50 years, Joe Lueken built his grocery business into a thriving enterprise in Bemidji. Yet he built much more than a chain of successful grocery stores. The philanthropist also gave back to the Bemidji community in myriad ways- with college scholarships, donations to Bemidji State University, support of numerous other nonprofit causes; and, when it came time to sell his chain of Lueken’s Village Foods stores, he opted instead to give the business to his employees, keeping the business locally owned.
Giving Back to Bemidji
Now, three years after his death, Lueken is still giving back. Ground was broken in June for the Construction of Sanford Joe Lueken Cancer Center in Bemidji. Kraus-Anderson, the construction manager for the project, has worked with Sanford Health since 1997 and has performed dozens of construction projects for Lueken’s.
Designed by HGA Architects on the southeast corner of the present Sanford Bemidji Main Clinic, clinic, the new 20,500 s.f. facility will expand the hospital’s cancer services, making the hospital a regional hub in screening and treating the disease.
Local Access to Leading Edge Cancer Treatment
The new clinic will include 20 infusion suites, 15 exam rooms, on-site pharmacy and lab services and a boutique with merchandise for patients. The center will house services including radiation, medical oncology and financial counseling.
The $12 million project was made possible by a significant lead donation by the Joseph and Janice Lueken Family Foundation.
The project is scheduled for completion in 2018.
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