Our Story
Committed to Community
Dear Residents and Families,
We’ve been asked many times about the story of the name “Evin.” It’s a shortened version of “Evinrude,” which refers to a piece of Oconomowoc (and American) history. Ole Evinrude invented the first reliable outboard boat motor on Okauchee Lake, and as the story is told:
Sometime around 1905, Ole’s girlfriend Bess Carey expressed a desire for some ice cream. In the evident and vigorous flush of youthful affection, Ole rowed to shore and back to complete the quest. Though the ice cream had melted by the time of his return, the adventure inspired Ole to understandably forsake the paddle forever as a means of water propulsion.
At Evin at Oconomowoc, you can experience endless freedom and new opportunities. Here, you’ll be rooted in the community you love, surrounded by your dearest friends, and inspired by an active lifestyle in the natural beauty of Wisconsin’s Lake Country. Life at Evin is centered around deepening your connections within the community. Your desire for a full, active, and meaningful life hasn’t diminished, and your pathway to lifelong growth doesn’t end when you move here. Quite simply, we want to be a part of encouraging your “Community-Inspired Life.”
We hope you come to visit, and take the next step towards finding a new sense of connection, all while knowing you have us to support you here at home.
Thanks for making us a part of your
Community-Inspired Life.
Andy Lange
Koru Health
Aaron R. Matter
Evin Co-founder
Meet the Team
We look forward to welcoming you with compassion and kindness!
DesiRae Bliefernicht
Executive Director
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DesiRae has spent the past five years working in senior living, a field she’s truly grown to love. She started out in human resource, where she learned how important it is to support teams, build strong relationships, and create a positive environment. Those experiences eventually led her into her current role as Executive Director.
Before joining Evin, DesiRae transferred from one of our sister communities, bringing along what she’d learned and her passion for helping others.
She is a lifelong Watertown resident, and family is at the heart of everything she does. She loves spending time with her husband and their son, who keeps them busy and entertained with his soccer schedule. They also share their home with two very opinionated cats who add plenty of personality to their days. Outside of work, DesiRae loves warm weather, being outdoors, and adding a little pink wherever she can. Most of all, she is committed to creating a welcoming, supportive place for residents, families, and staff.
Hannah Montini, RN
Clinical MANAGER
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Hannah began her career with Evin in October 2021 as a caregiver and nurse intern while attending nursing school. After graduating in May 2024, she transitioned to the role of Evin RN Clinical Manager.
Hannah cares deeply for the residents of Evin, bringing her dedication and compassion to her work every day.
A resident of Oconomowoc, Hannah enjoys spending her free time visiting her parents’ home, where she enjoys the company of their diverse array of animals, including a ferret, bunny, horses, dogs, and more.
Sophie Britton
Activity MANAGER
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Sophie has been with Evin since 2023. She has a Master’s Degree in Geropsychology which has helped her immensely in the different transitions with senior living.
Sophie loves all things arts and crafts and uses her skills to enrich the daily lives of our community members.
In her free time, Sophie and her husband, Daniel, love to spend time outdoors and enjoy playing sports.
Jacob Kotlarek
Maintenance Manager
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Bio coming soon!
Terri Smith
Culinary MANAGER
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Terri has been with Koru Health since 2021. She brings with her over 40 years of food service experience and is very passionate about providing appetizing and flavorful meals to our residents.
Terri is married with three adult children. In her free time, she likes to spend time with her seven grandchildren and go up north to her cabin.
Alli Herkowski
Community Relations manager
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As Community Relations Manager at Evin in Oconomowoc, Alli Herkowski leverages her extensive background in sales, marketing, and relationship management to support residents and their families throughout their senior living journey.
She specializes in guiding individuals through the decision-making process with compassion and expertise, ensuring a seamless and supportive transition into the community.
Alli’s professional dedication and proven track record in client relations make her a trusted resource for families seeking a vibrant and caring senior living community.
Get in Touch with Us!
Call 262-320-EVIN (3846) or email us at info@evinsenior.com.
We’d love to show you around!