NOTC unveils statue at new hospital

The National Orphan Train Complex unveiled an Orphan Train Rider statue honoring Edward and Harold Panzer at the new North Central Kansas Medical Center during its ribbon cutting ceremony and open house on Friday.
The statue was sponsored by the family of Dr. Wayne Fowler Sr.
On April 23, 1918, Edward, Harold, Robert and Jack Panzer arrived at the Happy Valley School in Pomona, New York. A year later their youngest brother, George, joined them after their father's death in October 1922.
All five boys were placed on an orphan train to Tekeman, Neb.
Edward Panzer was placed with Lester Lotz, who overworked him and did not allow him to attend school.
Eventually, Edward left the Lotz farm and returned to school, studying to become a doctor. After graduating college he attended medical school in Lincoln, Neb., and graduated with a degree in medicine in June 1940.
When World War II broke out, Dr. Edward Panzer joined the Navy and served in the Pacific Theater. After the war, he settled in California where he worked as a doctor.
Harold Panzer was placed with Earl Babbett who gave him a wonderful education. He attended Nebraska Wesleyan University and the University of Nebraska and graduated with a degree in medicine in 1937.
Dr. Harold Panzer set up a practice in Ainsworth, Neb., and later built a hospital in Bassett, Neb., with his younger brother Jack.
Harold also acquired a pilot's license and a small plane.
On one occasion a farmer was seriously injured in a hay baler accident and Harold did what he could for the man at his hospital and then flew him to Omaha, 250 miles away.
Both Edward and Harold were wonderful examples of courage, fortitude and determination and served their patients and communities well.