History

The journey to becoming Luther Manor began in the fall of 1956, when Rev. William B. Downey, pastor of Fox Point Lutheran Church, appointed a committee to study the needs of older adults and how to best meet them.

The recommendation that emerged was to build a 65-person facility to serve the aging population of the greater Milwaukee area. From this recommendation was borne the United Lutheran Program for the Aging (ULPA), a nonprofit, faith-based organization advocating for the needs of older adults of all faiths.

After several years of planning, the ULPA purchased a 29-acre site in Wauwatosa and construction began on a 97-bed residential retirement community. Today, that community, Luther Manor, is regarded as one of the finest senior living establishments in southeastern Wisconsin.

While our campus has grown and changed over the years, along with the needs of those we serve, Luther Manor's mission remains the same: to enrich the lives of older adults through excellent housing, care and services.

1960s
  • The cornerstone of Luther Manor is laid (1960).
  • The first 12 residents arrive in June (1961).
  • The first volunteers (Bucket Brigade) begin providing their services (1961).
  • Rev. William H. Truby is appointed the Executive Director of Luther Manor (1961).
1970s
  • Terrace at Luther Manor (currently the Garden Terrace) opens with 218 Retirement Living apartments (1975).
1980s
  • Luther Manor opens The Residence (currently The Courtyards at Luther Manor).
1990s
  • The Park Terrace opens, bringing the total of available apartments to 424.
  • The Health services clinic and a therapy program open.
  • The Lippold Faith and Education Center is completed.
  • Adult Day Services and Parish Nurse program are launched.
  • Rev. David Keller is appointed President/CEO (1992).
  • Health Care Center grows to 245 beds (1995).
  • Lakefield Adult Day Center opens at St. John Lutheran Church in Grafton (1997).
2000s
  • River Oaks in Mequon is acquired (2000).
  • Hospice Care program opens (2007).
  • Luther Manor celebrates 50th Anniversary (2011).