Mission accomplished: siblings reunited after two years apart

In a touching reunion that unfolded on Monday, November 20, brother and sister, Alvin Svoboda and Charlene Oehl, experienced their joyous reunion after a prolonged separation of over two years.
This day was also Alvin’s 87th birthday, adding even more sentiment to the occasion. Compassion and community spirit made it possible to bring together siblings who had been unable to reunite due to COVID-19 restrictions and medical challenges.
Alvin Svoboda, the Ganado Cinema owner and manager since 1977, and an employee since 1953, played a significant role in the community’s life. The Ganado Cinema was a cherished establishment, and Alvin’s dedication to it left an indelible mark on the town.
Moved by a heartfelt message on Facebook where Charlene expressed her desire to reunite with her brother, Ganado’s Grow in Grace Senior Living owner Kim Hicks took swift action to make this heartfelt reunion a reality.
Collaborating with Donna Coleman, Director of Professional Services & Public Information Officer at Jackson County Hospital, they organized the necessary transportation to ensure that Charlene could join her brother on this special occasion.
Both siblings currently reside in senior separate living facilities, with Charlene at Shiner Nursing & Rehabilitation.
The night before the reunion, Alvin expressed his excitement, saying, “I couldn’t fall asleep last night, I kept thinking Charlene’s going to be here tomorrow. It was just wonderful [knowing she was coming]. It’s so exciting for her to be here.”
Charlene shared in the anticipation, stating, “I couldn’t wait! I was very anxious to get here. It’s like a dream—a miracle that happened.”
Clinton Tegeler, Mayor of Ganado, highlighted the emotional significance of the reunion, saying, “Alvin is an icon here. That movie theater is what this town has been known for for decades. Family means everything to him, so for them to get to reunite after more than two years was special.”
Reflecting on the nostalgia of the Ganado Cinema days, Ganado Mayor Tegeler added, “Generations of us used to go help Alvin at the theater. We spent a lot of time hanging out with him, learning about the place, and hearing all the stories he had to tell. That’s been a big thing for all of us that grew up around here.”
Lance Smiga, Mayor of Edna and Jackson County Hospital District CEO, emphasized the community’s commitment to giving back. “Anytime we can put a smile on someone’s face here in Jackson County, we should!
This was the perfect opportunity to help Mr. Svoboda and his sister reunite. Alvin Svoboda has been a long-standing presence in Jackson County and our team was delighted to orchestrate bringing the siblings together before the Thanksgiving holiday.”
Charlene’s daughter, Kristy Mishler, expressed gratitude to the community for making the reunion possible, saying, “It’s very special to give them more time together and to see him myself too.”
Adding an extra layer of joy to the celebration, Alvin’s great-niece, Emma Mishler, recalled a private showing of ‘Frozen’ at the Ganado Cinema and shared, “It’s nice to see them get to be together again.”
The community’s response was overwhelming, with numerous individuals contributing to make this reunion truly special. Kim Hicks expressed her appreciation for the community’s support, saying, “This was amazing. This is what we do here. After seeing Charlene’s message, I jumped at the opportunity to try and get them together.”
Alvin’s birthday celebration included a homemade cake by 12-year-old Elizabeth Juranek and homemade enchiladas, Alvin’s favorite, made by Maria Rodriguez, former owner of El Camino.
Donna Coleman, who played a crucial role in organizing the transportation, described the heartwarming experience, saying, “When I saw them see each other for the first time, I knew our mission was accomplished. You could see the love in both of their eyes. They both teared up, as did I.”
Donna expressed her admiration for the community’s spirit, stating, “I always say Jackson County is a wonderful place to live because people will come together to make things like this happen. We are all Jackson County strong.”
This heartwarming reunion stands as a testament to the power of compassion, community, and the enduring bonds of family, even in the face of unprecedented challenges.