About us at Legacy Living Defiance in Defiance, Ohio

Mission Statement

A Servant's heart is the key to success! Creating a daily culture of serving your coworkers in an exceptional manner creates a TEAM environment that is responsive to the needs of our extended family we serve. This TEAMWORK allows us to pay attention to the details and exceed our customers' expectations.

Legacy's Why?

To serve others in our community through Love, Compassion, and Outstanding Work Ethic. Directly or indirectly, making a positive impact on you and your loved ones' lives.

How does Legacy Provide The Services & Amenities?

Serving each other and our residents go hand in hand, we can’t be great at one without the other!

What Are Those Services & Amenities?

Assisting our loved ones with their most intimate needs, delivering tasty dining experiences, providing fun life enrichment events, ensuring a clean and clutter-free home, and prompt response when you need us!

PAIGE GREEN
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

After graduating from Purdue University in 2021 with degrees in Public Health and Spanish, Paige has been with Legacy Living for the entirety of her administrative career. "From compassionate care of your loved ones to development of your care team, I am thrilled to bring the Legacy difference to such a well-loved community like Defiance." Originally from southern Indiana, Paige currently resides in Ft. Wayne. In her free time, you can find her cheering on Purdue basketball and traveling to visit friends and family all over the country.

IYAN PELFREE
LEASING DIRECTOR

After graduating from Carthage College in December of 2022 with a bachelor's degree in Psychology and a minor in Business Administration, Iyan spent two years in separate marketing/community impact roles with the Green Bay Packers and Detroit Tigers. “My passion for serving others and creating a meaningful quality of life has been a value that has carried into my time at Legacy.” Originally from the Indianapolis area, Iyan currently resides in Fort Wayne. In his free time, you can find Iyan at the gym, out on the golf course, or enjoying warm summer days poolside with family and friends.

AMY LANGHALS
WELLNESS DIRECTOR

Amy received her Associate’s degree in Nursing from Rhodes State College in 2013 and her Master’s degree in Executive Nursing from Chamberlain College of Nursing in 2022. Most recently, she completed her Somatic Experiencing Practitioner Certification that focuses on treating mental and emotional health issues through the connection of mind and body. “Caring for others has always been my passion. I love getting to know each resident like family and am excited to continue serving the community at Legacy." Amy and her husband, Trevor, live just outside of Kalida. They have two sons and two identical twin grandsons. You can find her at the lake with her family in the warmer months and watching movies with her dogs during the winter.

Guy Tettenhorst headshot

GUY TETTENHORST
MAINTENANCE DIRECTOR

Guy graduated from Columbus State in 1996 with an associates degree in business administration. He has enjoyed a long career managing a variety of businesses, most recently overseeing operations at a local golf course."I am excited to be a part of the Legacy Living Defiance family because I enjoy working as a part of a team dedicated to providing solutions that meet the needs of our seniors." Originally from Columbus, OH, Guy has resided in Defiance for nearly thirty years. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with his three children and his dog, Zeke, playing golf, and listening to thunderstorms roll through. He is also an avid cook who loves trying new things. 

Employee's Family Standing in front of a Christmas Tree

Eric Birkhold 
EXECUTIVE CHEF 

Born and raised in Bryan, OH; Eric's culinary adventures started at a young age when he and his grandmother would handpick cherries and create pies together. After attending Pennsylvania Culinary, he brought his passion for food to every setting from healthcare to diners and country clubs. "I am extremely excited to bring my culinary perspective to Legacy Living Defiance and create memorable experiences with the residents and staff." In Eric's free time he enjoys being outside with his fiancé and two dogs (Taco and Kay Kay), cooking up something tasty on the smoker, and enjoying movie nights throughout the week.

 

Misty at Legacy Living Defiance in Defiance, Ohio

Misty Garcia
Business Office Manager

Misty has been in Long term care for over 25 years in various different positions. She is looking forward to being part of the community and building new relationships with residents and their families. She has lived in the Defiance area all her life. When not working, she enjoys spending time with family/friends, reading, and time outdoors.

Dawn at Legacy Living Defiance in Defiance, Ohio

DAWN LUDWIG
ACTIVITY DIRECTOR

Dawn is a graduate of BGSU with a BS in Art Therapy. Dawn’s career has always been in care services. Including the last 20 years in long-term care. Dawn hopes to bring enhancement to our care community’s quality of life through activities and socialization. Dawn is excited to continue to serve residents of NW Ohio. In Dawn’s free time, you can find her camping with family, fishing, and cheering on her grandchildren.