Independent Living

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Julie Turnes

Activity Director

Julie Turnes was born in Detroit, MI. She was raised by her parents Thomas and Patricia Edgeworth and is one of 5 siblings. Julie has three sisters, and one brother. Julie has been married to her loving husband, John, for 26 years but does not have any children. Rather, they have adopted two female cats. 

Julie has been in the property management industry for approximately 9 years and then transitioned into the senior living field. She has over 23 years’ experience in the Senior living industry and is currently working as a Director of Activities for Independent seniors. She likes to find what their passion for life is and give them a sense of purpose.

Julie enjoys hiking, swimming, biking, exercising, kayaking, and traveling to the Caribbean Islands with her husband and friends.  She is very enthusiastic, loves to make others laugh and, overall, just loves to have fun. Julie feels blessed each day that the Lord has given her the chance to give back to others to enjoy life to its fullest. 

Mike Smith

Mike Smith

Maintenance Director

For over 15 years, Mike worked as a carpenter doing cabinetry and kitchen remodeling. This inspired him to open his own kitchen remodeling company in which he continued to work hard for 5 years. As the years went on, Mike knew it was time to move on to bigger and better things. For 5 years thereafter, he worked for a local union company doing carpentry work. Mike had heard about Pomeroy Living through word of mouth where he then applied as a Maintenance Technician. Mike primarily worked in a skilled nursing setting for 10 years to familiarize himself with long-term living and there he realized his true passion. He enjoyed working with those around him and helping those who needed it. Over the course of 14 years with Pomeroy Living, Mike used his skills and expertise as a Maintenance Director to oversee many of the Pomeroy communities.

Mike enjoys spending time with his son riding motorcycles, working out at the gym, and spending time at their family cottage in Caseville.

Sharron Muhammad

Sharron Davis

Housekeeping Director

Sharron has been a member of the Pomeroy Living family for two years and was recently promoted as the Director of Housekeeping. She is very passionate about helping others and enjoys the fact that she is making a difference in the residents’ lives each day. She has a desire to challenge herself and continue to be creative in what she does. Outside of work, Sharron enjoys cooking and staying healthy by working out.

Tony DeFeo

Tony DeFeo

Chef

Tony DeFeo joined the Pomeroy Living team in March 2023. Originally from Syracuse, New York, Tony initially pursued studies in accounting with a minor in communications but quickly discovered that his true calling lay outside the office. He enrolled in Johnson & Wales University’s renowned culinary program in Providence, Rhode Island, gaining valuable hands-on experience at the Wannamoisett Country Club. There, he developed a passion for quality food preparation and exceptional service.

In 1999, Tony moved to Michigan at his parents' encouragement and began working at The Capital Grille in Troy. Shortly after, he faced a defining career choice: continue his education in Rhode Island or take on the role of Executive Chef at a newly opened independent living community. He chose the latter, which led to a fulfilling career in senior living dining services—and where he also met his future wife.

Throughout his career, Tony has held numerous roles, including Executive Chef, Operations Support Manager, District Manager, Regional Culinary Director, and Corporate Executive Chef, building extensive expertise in culinary and operational leadership.

Outside of work, Tony enjoys restoring vintage Japanese motorcycles with his son, Anthony.

Assisted Living & Memory Care

Melanie

Melanie Dex

Executive Director

Melanie has been an integral member of the Pomeroy Family since January 2012. Armed with a bachelor’s degree in business administration, she boasts over 15 years of dedicated service in the construction industry, primarily as a Project Coordinator, facilitating the realization of clients' dream homes. In 2010, Melanie transitioned her career trajectory toward the medical field, contributing her skills to Children’s Hospital and Behavioral Health, driven by a desire to be part of a positive impact on others.

Her journey led her to Pomeroy Living Skilled Rehabilitation Community in Rochester, where she consistently expanded her expertise and knowledge through various roles. Progressing from Administrator in Training at our Skilled Rehabilitation community in Sterling Heights, Melanie now holds the esteemed position of Executive Director for the Assisted Living and Memory Care community.

Melanie's unwavering passion lies in curating lifestyles that align seamlessly with the needs of our seniors, aiming to enhance their quality of life. Committed to the belief that seniors should have the freedom to pursue their passions, she is dedicated to ensuring they can engage in activities they love at their discretion.

Jonathan Marzicola

Jonathan Marzicola

Sales and Marketing Director

Jonathan started his journey in the senior living industry as a server in the dining room of an independent living community.

With dedication and passion, he was promoted to assistant director in 2014. Jonathan has since accumulated a wealth of experience in various capacities within the senior industry, bringing valuable expertise to Pomeroy.

Joining Pomeroy in April 2024, Jonathan looks forward to making a meaningful difference in the community and the lives of our seniors and their families. As a Certified Dementia Practitioner, he has dedicated his life to ensuring the well-being of this population.

In his leisure time, Jonathan cherishes moments with his wife and son, Sterling. He also enjoys sports and a good comedy movie.

Debbie Brouillette

Debbie Brouillette

Director of Wellness

Debbie graduated from Baker College of Auburn Hills in 2011, obtaining her nursing license. Beginning her nursing journey in an assisted living community, she quickly transitioned to a skilled nursing facility, where she dedicated over a decade of service. Starting as a floor nurse, Debbie's commitment and expertise led her to ascend to the role of Unit Manager, where she oversaw wound care for her community.

Throughout her career, Debbie acknowledges the invaluable guidance and mentorship provided by her best friend, Wendy, as well as the unwavering support from her husband and daughter. In addition to her professional duties, Debbie found fulfillment in working with troubled children at the Juvenile Center, where she played a vital role in guiding and overseeing their care.

Now, as a proud member of the Pomeroy Living Team, Debbie is excited to return to her roots in the assisted living sector. Her genuine passion for helping others and spreading love and compassion has been the driving force behind her career choices, and she looks forward to continuing to make a positive impact in the lives of those she serves.

Andrew Giles

Andrew Giles

Chef
Andrew Foster - Pomeroy Rochester Assisted

Andrew Foster

Maintenance Director

Andrew Foster brings over eight years of dedicated experience to the maintenance team at Pomeroy Living, where he specializes in a comprehensive array of skills encompassing repairs, preventative maintenance, emergency preparedness, and meticulous adherence to state regulations. His proficiency in renovation work since 2013 further underscores his expertise in enhancing and maintaining facilities to the highest standards.

Andrew's academic background includes studies in finance at Oakland University, providing him with a strategic perspective that complements his practical maintenance expertise. Outside of work, he finds relaxation in playing golf and cherishing moments with loved ones, showcasing his commitment to both personal and professional excellence.

Skilled Rehabilitation

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Antoinette Sorrano

Director of Nursing
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Leah Trammel

Admissions Coordinator
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Coming Soon

Director of Social Work
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Coming Soon

Director of Social Work
Brandon-Bio

Brandon Birkner

Activites Director

As the Activity Director of Pomeroy Living-Rochester Skilled, Brandon brings over 5 years of experience as a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist. He has dedicated his career to working in the Long-Term Care Industry and serving the elderly population. Brandon's approach to care is holistic, focusing on providing emotional, physical, spiritual, and social enrichment to those in need.

Aside from his role as a Recreation Director, Brandon has a passion for music and enjoys playing the guitar and drums. He also cherishes spending quality time with his family and friends, indulging in reading, and taking his beloved English Bulldog, Barney, on walks.

Aaron Austin

Aaron Austin

Maintenance Director

Aaron has been the Maintenance Director at Pomeroy Living Rochester Skilled for 4 years. He started as a Maintenance Tech and worked up to Maintenance Director after 6 years. Aaron has 23 years of experience in maintenance in total. He has 2 children and is married to his lovely wife Julie. They enjoy camping and playing multiple sports as a family.

Alice Bucy

Alice Bucy

Housekeeping Director

Alice has been with Pomeroy Rochester Skilled for 3 years and in the housekeeping/laundry industry for a total of 18 years. From the day she started here she fell in love with the residents and the staff in her department and with the Pomeroy way of doing things. During her free time Alice is a sports mom. She has a wonderful son who enjoys athletics. She enjoys watching him compete on the athletic fields!