BUHLER, Kan. — After more than three decades of leadership, Sunshine Meadows Retirement Community CEO Keith Pankratz will retire on Dec. 19, 2025, marking the end of a 36-year career that helped transform the Buhler-based facility into one of Kansas’ leading senior care providers.
Pankratz guided Sunshine Meadows’ evolution from a small nursing home into a full Continuum of Care Retirement Community, while also serving as a driving force for senior care advancement locally and statewide. He played key roles on the city’s economic development committee, helped found the Progressive Healthcare Alliance, and was active in multiple senior living boards and the Buhler Kiwanis Club.
The Sunshine Meadows Board of Directors announced that Nathan Spencer, who has served as executive director and administrator, will officially succeed Pankratz. Spencer, a longtime SMRC employee, began his career there in 2011 after working for the City of Buhler’s maintenance department. Under Pankratz’s mentorship, he rose through several leadership roles before earning his administrator license in 2022 and stepping into the administrator position in January 2023.
“Keith’s leadership has shaped not only this organization, but also my own journey,” Spencer said. “I look forward to continuing the mission of providing compassionate, Christ-centered care and ensuring Sunshine Meadows remains a place where residents feel at home.”
To celebrate Pankratz’s retirement, Sunshine Meadows will host a staff luncheon and a community reception on Dec. 19 from 4–6 p.m. Residents, staff, families, and community members are invited to attend.
“The Sunshine Meadows Board expresses its deepest gratitude to Keith for his years of dedicated leadership and the profound impact he has had on our residents, families, and staff,” said Mary Frazier, board chair. “We are delighted to welcome Nathan Spencer, who will carry on his legacy of care and commitment to our community.”
