Brooklyn Park ‘Singing Server’ Honored as Caregiver of the Year
In the dining room of Saint Therese at Oxbow Lake in Brooklyn Park, meals occasionally come accompanied by the vocals of an in-house crooner.
Lino Anunciacion, the senior living community’s lead food server, has become a local fixture for his tendency to serenade residents during mealtime. Whether it’s a classic ballad like “Before the Next Teardrop Falls” or a simple friendly greeting, “the singing server” has turned the dining room into a place of connection.
Staff members say Anunciacion sings at birthdays, anniversaries, even weddings. If there is an opportunity to make someone feel special, he finds a way to serenade them.
His dedication to the residents of Saint Therese earned him some unexpected recognition.
Earlier this year, LeadingAge Minnesota named Anunciacion as one of its 2026 Caregivers of the Year.
Lino Anunciacion (center) after receiving the 2026 Caregiver of the Year award from LeadingAge Minnesota.
Going Beyond the Menu
The Caregiver of the Year award is a prestigious nod to individuals who exceed the standard expectations of their roles to enhance the quality of life for seniors. While the honor typically goes to nurses or clinical staff, Anunciacion made history this year as the only recipient working in food service among the seven honorees.
For Anunciacion, who has been with Saint Therese for nearly three years, the job isn’t just about logistics or nutrition—it’s personal.
“Especially the residents, they’re like family to me,” Anunciacion said. “This is how I grew up… back in the day. This is my passion, helping elders and every one of them.”
Anunciacion describes Saint Therese as his “second home,” a sentiment that clearly resonates in his work ethic.
By bridging the gap between hospitality and heartfelt care, Anunciacion has proven that caregiving happens in many forms — sometimes through a medical chart and sometimes through a song and a warm meal.
“At Saint Therese, we talk about welcoming others, showing respect, and serving with heart. Lino lives those values every single day,” said Christine DeLander, executive director at Saint Therese of Oxbow Lake in a statement. “He goes beyond his role as Lead Server to create moments of comfort and joy, often serenading residents during meals. His compassion and joyful spirit make a lasting impact on everyone in our community.”
Lino Anunciacion (in black), has worked at Saint Therese at Oxbow Lake in Brooklyn Park for nearly three years.
Also See: Saint Therese Opens New Corcoran Facility
