Steve & Kathy McShane STEM Innovation Center Celebrates Grand
BUILDERS of BOYS.
BACK-TO-BACK STATE CHAMPIONS!
The varsity soccer team successfully defended its Division 2 state title, defeating undefeated Unity Christian 2-0 to secure the school’s 7th soccer state championship.
MAKERS of MEN.
&
DE LA SALLE COLLEGIATE 14600 Common Road Warren, MI 48088 (586) 778-2207 www.delasallehs.com
The Collegiate | Fall 2025
Published by the De La Salle Collegiate Advancement Office.
Frequency: Three times per year
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER
Dan Rohn
PRINCIPAL
Christopher Dean, ‘89
VICE PRINCIPAL & CURRICULUM DIRECTOR
Annmarie Michol
DEAN OF STUDENTS
Andrew Campbell
DIRECTOR OF ADVANCEMENT
Greg Esler
DIRECTOR OF ADMISSIONS & MISSIONS
Brian Barker
CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
Dave Barstys
DIRECTOR OF ALUMNI RELATIONS
Vito Chirco, ‘11
DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS
Kevin Fitzhenry, ‘03
MANAGING EDITOR, THE COLLEGIATE Vicki Granger
ASSOCIATE ADVANCEMENT DIRECTOR Linda Fraschetti
ADVANCEMENT ASSISTANT Kelly LaRose
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Mr. Ben Aloia, ‘91, Chair
Br. James Butler, FSC
Mr. Gregory M. DeMars, ‘00
Ms. Lynda DiProspero
Mr. William Doetsch, ‘85
Mr. William Edwards, ‘86
Mr. Darrell Goolsby Sr., ‘84
Mr. James Muer, ‘85
Mr. Alan Rudzewicz, ‘69
Mr. Al Salvitti
Mr. Scott Schollenberger, ‘87
Mr. Rick Stanza, ‘93
Ms. Janis Thomas
Mr. Ben Ventresca
Msgr. Kosanke, ‘77, named CBD Honoree
LoDuca, ‘93, Addresses 1926 Society
Kanga Roof Sponsors Scholarship
Ziemba Math Scholarship Hits $60K
Simon Foundation
Dear Pilot Nation,
As we move through another exciting fall semester here at De La Salle Collegiate, I am filled with gratitude for the incredible energy and spirit that continues to define our community. This season has been a powerful reminder of what makes De La Salle such a special place—our commitment to faith, scholarship, service, and brotherhood.
We began the school year by celebrating the opening of the Steve & Kathy McShane STEM Innovation Center, a state-of-the-art facility that has already become a hub of creativity and collaboration. Students are engaging hands-on with new technologies, deepening their understanding of science, engineering, and innovation; skills that will prepare them for the challenges of tomorrow.
Our Class of 2029 has brought new enthusiasm to campus, and our faculty and staff continue to provide an exceptional Lasallian education rooted in the values that have guided us for nearly a century. The spirit of De La Salle was also on full display during our Homecoming Weekend, which brought together hundreds of alumni, families, and students to celebrate our shared traditions and lasting brotherhood.
We’ve also witnessed tremendous success in our athletic programs, with our student-athletes demonstrating leadership, perseverance, and teamwork both on and off the field. At the same time, our young men continue to serve others through countless Christian Service projects, living out our mission to touch hearts and transform lives.
As we look ahead, excitement is building for our upcoming 100th anniversary. As we prepare to celebrate De La Salle’s founding, let us be reminded that we stand on the shoulders of those who came before us, and that our future is brighter than ever.
Thank you for your continued support, your prayers, and your passion for De La Salle Collegiate. Together, we continue to advance our mission of building “Men of Faith, Integrity, and Scholarship.”
Live Jesus in our Hearts—Forever!
Sincerely,
Dan Rohn Chief Operating Officer De La Salle Collegiate
MISSION STATEMENT
De La Salle Collegiate is dedicated to the Lasallian Catholic education of its diverse students, including the poor and disadvantaged. We are a college-preparatory school inspired by the spirit and tradition of St. John Baptist de La Salle, where learning takes place in the presence of God. Each student is encouraged to develop his faith, character, intellect, and morality.
This mission is embodied in the school's motto: Builders of Boys. Makers of Men.
HOMECOMING 2025
The Stars and Stripes are presented at midfield by members of the faculty and staff for the first-ever homecoming game played on the Warren campus at St. John Baptist de La Salle Field.
Scan the QR code to watch highlights from homecoming
De La
Salle
Collegiate
Ushers in a
New Era with
the
Opening of the Steve & Kathy McShane STEM Innovation Center
As De La Salle Collegiate prepares to celebrate its 100th anniversary next year, the Pilots are boldly stepping into the future with the grand opening of the Steve & Kathy McShane STEM Innovation Center, a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to advancing science, technology, engineering, and math education.
On Thursday, Oct. 9, faculty, staff, alumni, students, and friends gathered to mark the transformation of the school’s former library into an innovative academic hub designed to nurture curiosity, inspire creativity, and prepare students for the rapidly evolving world of STEM.
“As De La Salle prepares to celebrate 100 years of educating young men rooted in faith, service, and excellence, this center symbolizes our commitment to the next century,” said Greg Esler, Advancement Director at De La Salle. “It represents the next step in our mission to form Builders of Boy. Makers of Men.”
A Place of Possibility
For Ben Aloia, Class of 1991 and Chairman of the Board of Trustees, the new center is more than a facility — it’s a promise to future generations.
“The new center is a place of possibility,” Aloia said. “In today’s rapidly evolving world, a STEM education is the backbone of innovation and future career opportunities. STEM careers are growing six times faster than other occupations. Access to a quality STEM education is no longer a luxury; it is a necessity. The STEM center will be a place to propel our students into future leaders who will live with morality, integrity, and spirituality.”
Honoring the Vision of Steve and Kathy McShane
The STEM Innovation Center bears the names of Steve and Kathy McShane, whose generosity and commitment made the project possible. A 1961 graduate of De La Salle, Steve McShane was the first in his family to attend college, earning a bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Detroit and an MBA from the University of Michigan.
An inventor and entrepreneur with hundreds of patents, McShane founded Midtronics in 1985, a company built on innovation and per-
sistence. Reflecting on his journey and his time as a student, McShane marveled at how far technology and education have come.
“Our high-tech club in the 1950s was ham radio. We connected using Morse code through the static of short-wave radio,” McShane said with a smile. “Biology lab back then meant dissecting frogs. Memorable? Yes. High tech? Not exactly. Today’s students will study biomedical subjects using our Anatomage table — an immersive, virtual 3D human cadaver with no frogs harmed in the process. Today’s students, incredibly, are launching rockets, flying drones, building robots, and will soon be experimenting with AI in ways that our slide rules could not even dream of. This isn’t just progress, it is transformation.”
Preparing Students to Lead with Integrity
McShane spoke about the perseverance and creativity that fueled his own success and how those same qualities will define the next generation of innovators who walk De La Salle’s halls.
“The lessons I learned from my journey are simple: Innovation is a goal, curiosity is a spark, and persistence is a fuel,” he said. “The STEM center isn’t just about labs and 3D printers, it’s about dedicated
teachers and a world-class curriculum that prepares young men for a world where change is constant and accelerating.”
Touching on the growing influence of artificial intelligence, McShane emphasized the importance of using technology with wisdom and purpose.
“For today’s students, AI won’t just be a tool; it will be a collaborator,” he explained. “But the real advantage won’t come from having smart machines — it will come from using them responsibly, ethically, and creatively.”
Quoting Microsoft founder Bill Gates, McShane noted that while automation will continue to shape the workforce, fields requiring creativity, ethical judgment, and problem-solving, such as biology, programming, and energy innovation, will endure.
“Machines can model data, but they can’t replicate human wisdom,” McShane said. “That’s why the STEM center matters. We are preparing students not just to keep pace with technology that is now moving at lightning speed, but to lead it with human insight and Christian values.”
Building the Future, Honoring the Past
The celebration of the McShane STEM Innovation Center’s opening was both a look ahead and a reflection on the school’s enduring mission. With new technologies such as flight simulators, robotics equipment, and advanced digital learning tools, students will have the opportunity to explore, create, and innovate like never before.
“Our students will ask the questions that AI can’t answer,” McShane concluded. “That’s what the STEM center represents. It is more than brick and mortar — it is a launch pad. A place to experiment, collaborate, fail, learn, and try again. The opening of the STEM center marks the beginning of De La Salle’s second century. The centennial is about honoring De La Salle’s past; the STEM center is about assuring its future.”
Msgr. Charles Kosanke, ‘77, Named 2026 Christian Brothers’ Dinner Honoree
Msgr. Charles Kosanke, a graduate of the class of 1977, and the current pastor and rector of the Basilica of Ste. Anne de Detroit, has been named the 2026 Christian Brothers’ Dinner honoree.
“I was shocked,” Msgr. Kosanke said. “I’ve participated in the life of this school, spiritually, celebrating Masses and hearing confessions, but I hope to galvanize support for the school’s 100th anniversary. That is a significant milestone and an opportunity to engage our alumni, not only in gratitude for the last 100 years, but to make sure De La Salle is around for the next 100 years.”
Msgr. Kosanke also set another milestone: He is the first priest to be named the Dinner honoree.
Msgr. Kosanke received a special recognition after the noon Mass, Sunday, Aug. 17, at Ste. Anne de Detroit Basilica from De La Salle COO Dan Rohn. Rohn was joined by members of the Dinner Committee, including chairman Chris Fett, ‘90, past honoree Mark Wisniewski, ‘83, along with John Wangler, Jack Brusewitz, ‘77, and DLS Advancement Director Greg Esler.
“As we celebrate 100 years of Lasallian brotherhood, faith, and education, I couldn’t be more excited to have Msgr. Chuck Kosanke as our 45th honoree of the Christian Brothers' Dinner,” said Dinner chair Chris Fett, ‘90. “He embodies the values of faith, family, and service, bringing to life the Lasallian mission.”
Rohn said Msgr. Kosanke’s honor is well-deserved. “It has been a long-standing tradition at our Christian Brothers’ Dinner to honor a friend, family member, or alumnus of De La Salle. This year, we are privileged to recognize Msgr. Chuck Kosanke, Class of 1977,” he said. “Monsignor has devoted his life to serving the Catholic Church and Catholic education, while also providing leadership and guidance to numerous organizations throughout metro Detroit."
“Our community is proud and deeply excited to honor not only Msgr. Kosanke, but also the entire Kosanke family," Rohn added.
“De La Salle is a special place because of the Christian Brothers,” Msgr. Kosanke said. “They truly are the 'Builders of Boys. Makers of Men.’ As a Catholic school, De La Salle believes education is more
than just academics. De La Salle educates the whole person: body, mind, and soul.
“The Christian Brothers form them to be authentic Christian men, to be good husbands, fathers, and good disciples of Jesus, and hope that they make a significant contribution to the world,” he continued. “That is what we are called to do, each in our way, each in our own profession. The metro Detroit area has certainly benefited, and will continue to benefit, from the mission of De La Salle Collegiate.”
Since his ordination in 1985, Msgr. Kosanke has served throughout metro Detroit, including at National Shrine of the Little Flower Basilica in Royal Oak, St. Benedict Parish in Highland Park, Church of the Madonna and St. Cecilia parishes in Detroit, Guardian Angels Parish in Clawson, and St. Regis Parish in Bloomfield Hills.
He is the pastor and rector of the Basilica of Ste. Anne de Detroit, which was founded in 1701, making it the oldest parish in the city. He is also pastor of Most Holy Trinity Parish in Corktown, and serves as moderator of the Southwest Detroit Family of Parishes and regional moderator of the Central Region of the Archdiocese of Detroit.
An avid golfer, swimmer, and walker, he enjoys reading in his spare time while balancing his role as chief teacher, spiritual leader, and administrator of Ste. Anne, and adds that he feels blessed to be its pastor and humbled to be called to walk in the steps of Fr. Gabriel Richard.
Scan the QR code to watch remarks from Msgr. Kosanke on the CBD:
‘93 Alum Gaspare LoDuca
Addresses Class of 2026 at
DAC
When Gaspare LoDuca, ‘93, walked into De La Salle Collegiate as a freshman in the fall of 1989, he knew less than a handful of his classmates. He was shy, uncertain of his talents, and, by his own admission, lacking in confidence in two of his areas of expertise today: math and science.
Fast-forward three decades, and that same young man has become a technology leader at two of the world’s most prestigious universities: Columbia and now MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology).
His path to success certainly wasn’t a cake walk, either. And, it was molded, in large part, by the lessons he learned inside and outside the classroom at De La Salle.
“I always thought I was bad at science and math until I got to De La Salle,” LoDuca admitted. “I never thought I’d get into the field I’m in today. Brother Xavier (Pankovits, FSC, '60) was terrifying and an enigma, but he made me believe I could do chemistry.
“And I had Tony DeSantis, ‘60, for math. I could teach myself everything until Calc 2 because of him. He turned the lights on for me with math. He even taught us basic programming. That changed everything for me.”
Growing up in Fraser, Mich., LoDuca attended St. Thecla School before transferring to Richards Middle School.
And from an early age, LoDuca was enthralled by computers. He eventually had his own TI-99/4A home computer, a computer produced by Texas Instruments.
He used the computer to learn how to program and code. This included coding some very “rudimentary” games, which LoDuca had to manually type in. And if typed in correctly, the games were playable. LoDuca’s parents (Gaspare and Mary Ann), meanwhile, were not fans of video games, and thought they were a waste of money.
“It was tedious, copying many lines of code, but until I could save money to buy games myself, that's all I had. That was my early exposure to computer programming/coding,” LoDuca said.
When LoDuca first arrived at De La Salle, he lacked confidence and spent much of his time “just grinding” through his classes, as he put it.
It wasn’t until he began asking teachers for help and developing friendships with classmates that he discovered the school’s true transformative value.
“The biggest lesson I learned at DLS was never be afraid to ask for help,” LoDuca expressed. “Once I opened up, my grades got better, and the experience got better. It wasn’t about the classes – it was about the people.”
Those individuals included lifelong friends like Matt Szalach, ’93, and Tony Bucci, ‘93, along with football coaches Ross MacDonald and Mike Szatkowski, ’73.
Additionally, it was Br. Patrick McNally, FSC, St. Joe’s ‘55, who inspired LoDuca to become a better student.
“He told me I could do better,” LoDuca said of Br. Pat. “I rose to that challenge and then beat it. He even wrote a letter to my parents telling them how I exceeded expectations. That was a big moment for me.”
He also credited DeSantis’ programming class and a computer science course taught by Richard Dobrzynski, ‘60, for preparing him for his college workload at Michigan State University.
“By the time I got to Michigan State, the first two years were a breeze,” he said. “There was nothing I couldn’t do academically. It was because of the foundation I had at De La Salle.”
LoDuca went on to earn a chemical engineering degree from Michigan State. In addition, he now serves on the external advisory board for the university’s chemical engineering and material science department. In his role on the board, he aids today’s students in navigating the same challenges he once faced.
LoDuca’s professional life has been anything but ordinary.
He oversaw university-wide enterprise systems for north of 35,000 students and 15,000-plus employees as the former vice president for information technology and chief information officer at Columbia University. As part of the job, he spearheaded some of the most complex IT operations in higher education.
LoDuca is now applying those same skills as the VP for information systems and technology at MIT, one of the most technologically advanced universities in the world. Just like at Columbia, he also serves as MIT’s chief information officer.
LoDuca joined the Massachusetts-based school earlier this August.
The well-accomplished DLS graduate has now held several high-ranking positions in the academic world.
Yet, his leadership style has remained rooted in putting others first and enabling them to succeed.
“I don’t like to bully people or tear them down. I want to enable people to be their best,” he conveyed. “I believe in leadership through servitude. If you give people the information and tools they need, they’ll thrive. That’s the kind of environment I want to create.”
He attributes this servant-first approach to one of his former bosses.
“We’d only have 30 minutes together each week. He’d sit down, put his phone in the middle of the table, and ask, ‘What’s your problem?’ Then he’d make a call right there to help me solve it,” LoDuca said. “That stuck with me; I try to be that kind of leader.”
To this day, LoDuca views himself as “an average student” who initially struggled to adjust to the academic rigor of De La Salle.
That’s why the opportunity to be the keynote speaker at this fall’s 1926 Society Breakfast was so meaningful to him.
“I’ve never been an academic standout. That’s why it’s wild to think life has found me in this position,” LoDuca admitted. “I want to speak to the students about how working hard and helping others along the way are what matter. You can build a better world around you with this mentality.”
From his humble beginnings at De La Salle to his present role at MIT, LoDuca’s story is proof that belief in one’s abilities and a strong work ethic can take you further than you ever imagined.
Scan the QR code to watch Gaspare LoDuca’s keynote address:
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
Students, Alumni, Faculty & Staff in Service of the Lasallian Mission
Kanga Roof Fore-A-Cause Classic Supports the Evan Vaillancourt Legacy Fund Scholarship
When DLS Alumnus Evan Vaillancourt, Class of 2019, passed away suddenly in November 2022, his death impacted Bill Burkhardt Jr., Class of 2003.
Burkhardt worked at De La Salle from 2008-18 as the Director of Admissions and not only recruited Evan to attend the school, but is also a friend of Evan’s mother, Andrea, who was the Administrative Assistant in the Admissions Office for several years.
Although Burkhardt left DLS to join Kanga Roof, his family’s business, he has remained connected to DLS in numerous ways. He is a member of the Pilot Business Association and recently joined the Finance Committee of the DLS Board of Trustees.
But perhaps his most impactful activity has been the establishment of the Evan Vaillancourt Scholarship Fund, an endowed scholarship in Valliancourt’s memory to help children from military families attend De La Salle. Evan was a U.S. Army Specialist.
Burkhardt made a commitment of $250,000 to establish an endowment fund, funded with an initial donation of $50,000 in 2023.
In 2024, he created the Fore-A-Cause Classic, and raised $30,000; the 2025 classic raised $38,000 and had over 100 golfers The event was held at the Oak Ridge Golf Course in New Haven in late September 2025.
At Kanga Roof, Burkhardt is the VP of Marketing and an owner/ partner. His brother, Matthew Burkhardt, Class of 2005, is the VP of Commercial Operations, and Brian Neaton, Class of 2007, is the firm’s COO.
One of Evan’s brothers, Mason, is also a member of the Kanga Roof team; another brother, Joshua, graduated with the DLS Class of 2017.
While Kanga Roof has always engaged in numerous charitable events, including the Relay for Life, Toys for Tots, and the Macomb County Food Bank, two years ago the team made a decision to commit to one major impactful event.
They continue to support various youth groups and charities with their golf outings and events, such as Regina High School, the Archdiocese of Detroit, and the Capuchin Soup Kitchen.
Bigger Prizes, Brighter Minds: Ziemba Math Scholarship Competition Hits $60K
Thanks to Roger Ziemba, DLS Class of ‘72, the prizes for the Annual Roger Ziemba Math Scholarship Competition have significantly increased for the top three eighth-grade students.
The prizes for the third-annual competition total $60,000:
• 1st Place: $30,000 scholarship ($7,500 per year at DLS)
• 2nd Place: $20,000 scholarship ($5,000 per year at DLS)
• 3rd Place: $10,000 scholarship ($2,500 per year at DLS)
• 4th Place: $500 tuition voucher for DLS
• 5th Place: $50 gift card to the Pilot Hangar
DLS Faculty member and Math Department Chair Joe Novak, DLS ‘03, said, “I am thrilled that Roger has decided to increase his donation to provide even greater scholarship opportunities for our students. We are so grateful for Roger’s generosity and continued support of DLS and our students. This year’s competition promises to be especially exciting, and we can’t wait to see our students showcase their talents.”
Ziemba initiated the competition in 2023, offering tuition scholarship prizes to the top eighth-graders, renewable each year as long as the student maintains an A average in his Math classes.
Ziemba also sponsors the Pilot Hangar gift cards awarded to the top sixth- and seventh-grade students, along with competition T-shirts for every participant.
"The math competition is a wonderful thing,” Ziemba said. “It is time we shed a spotlight on math. I am impressed with what Joe Novak and the Math Department are doing at DLS.”
Ziemba also sponsors a $5,000 scholarship, renewable each year, for the student who has the highest 8th-grade placement test score on the math portion.
DLS Advancement Director Greg Esler said, “I can’t thank Roger enough for his generosity and the terrific impact he has made on our students. His ultra-generous gift has already made an impact on our students and helped us bring even more of the brightest and best math students into the school’s math program.”
Ziemba himself received a half-scholarship to De La Salle because of his placement test score as an eighth-grader.
Scan the QR code to view remarks from Roger Ziemba ‘72:
Bill Burkhardt, ‘03 (left) at the Fore-A-Cause Classic.
Sam & Nada Simon Foundation Champions Access to Catholic Education at De La Salle Collegiate
De La Salle Collegiate is proud to recognize the Sam & Nada Simon Foundation for its generous sponsorship of students whose families face financial challenges in affording tuition. The foundation’s commitment is to open doors for young men across metro Detroit to receive a Lasallian education rooted in faith, scholarship, and service.
“Christianity teaches us the right thing to do. That’s what Jesus taught us,” said Nada Simon, president of the Sam & Nada Simon Foundation. “Students are not coming to DLS to just be educated - they are being taught the correct principles that will be with them the rest of their lives.”
During a recent campus visit, Nada Simon met with students and their families, sharing her inspiring story of resilience, her appreciation for Catholic education, and her deep love of God. Her warmth and authenticity made a lasting impression on everyone in attendance.
“Sam and Nada’s generosity reflects their belief in the power of education to transform lives,” said DLS Advancement Director Greg Esler. “We are deeply grateful for their support and for the way they engage personally with our students and families.”
The foundation’s sponsorship ensures that deserving young men can continue to grow academically, spiritually, and personally, regardless of socioeconomic status.
For more information about supporting scholarships at De La Salle Collegiate, don't hesitate to get in touch with Greg Esler, Director of Advancement, at 586-541-6254 or email gesler@delasallehs.com.
Scan the QR code to view remarks from Nada Simon:
Pilots Achieve Record AP
Success
for Fifth-Consecutive Year
Proud of Our Pilots!
At De La Salle, our students continue to excel at the highest academic levels. This year, 73.17% of our AP students scored a 3 or higher on their exams—a 7.49% increase from last year and the fifth-consecutive year of growth in AP success. Ten of our teachers saw their class scores rise as well, further proving the strength of our academic programs.
Our Pilots go on to thrive at top universities, including Princeton, Stanford, Notre Dame, Pepperdine, Alabama, Illinois, Purdue, Michigan, and Michigan State.
Our faculty models what it means to be lifelong learners. Many dedicated time this summer to exploring new strategies for teaching AP courses, and more will be pursuing AP training this year to sharpen their craft even further. Their commitment ensures that our students are not only challenged but also supported at the highest levels.
With 18 AP courses across a wide range of subjects, De La Salle encourages students to grow academically while building the discipline and confidence that prepare them for college success. The goal of Annmarie Michol, vice principal and curriculum director, is to see every student challenge themselves by taking at least one AP course by junior year, giving them valuable experience and skills early. Many of our Pilots graduate with college credits already earned, giving them a strong head start in admissions, scholarships, and future coursework.
These results are more than numbers—they represent the hard work of our students, the dedication of our faculty, and the strength of our Lasallian community. At De La Salle, every student has the potential to rise to the challenge, and our AP achievements highlight the life-changing opportunities available here.
IN MEMORIAM
1950s
Lawrence (Larry) Bodalski, ‘59. February 12, 2025. His son, Johnathan Bodalski, graduated from De La Salle in 1999.
Edward Heike, St. Joe’s ‘52. May 12, 2025. His grandson, Evan Heike Sobetski, graduated from De La Salle in 2016.
Edward's company, Wing Construction, was the general contractor for the De La Salle school chapel.
Edward lost his father at the age of 5, and the Christian Brothers proceeded to take him under their wings. It was something he remembered fondly until the day he passed. Through scholarship, the Christian Brothers made it possible for Edward to receive a Catholic education, and put him on a path to living a life of charity.
David Kellett, ‘50. August 5, 2025. Dave cherished his time at De La Salle Collegiate, and remained an avid supporter of the Lasallian mission until his final days. He will be dearly missed by the entire DLS community.
Joseph Melcher, ‘59. March 28, 2025. His late brother, Werner Melcher, was a class of 1950 graduate of St. Joe’s High School.
Joe’s accomplishments ranged from being a member of the De La Salle student council to years of honorable service in the U.S. Air Force and a degree from the University of Detroit (Mercy), which helped launch his 35-year career at Ford Motor Co.
James (Jim) Oleksik, St. Joe’s ‘58. November 4, 2024.
Jerome (Jerry) Palazzolo, St. Joe’s ‘53. May 20, 2025. He was the father of Frank Palazzolo, ‘86, and Mike Palazzolo, ‘88. Meanwhile, his nephews, Frank Palazzolo and Matt Palazzolo, graduated from De La Salle in 1958 and 1972, respectively.
Dr. Ralph Paonessa, St. Joe’s ‘50. March 10, 2025. He was a longtime supporter of De La Salle, and could often be seen at the Christmas and summer senior alumni luncheons.
Edward (Ed) Wegener, St. Joe’s ‘52. January 23, 2025. Ed was a lifelong friend of the late Br. Patrick McNally, FSC, St. Joe’s ‘55.
1960s
Joseph Chiesa, ‘67. September 11, 2025.
Lawrence (Larry) Cichocki, ‘61. April 27, 2025.
Robert Cullinan Jr., ‘66. July 9, 2025.
Kevin Gore, ‘66. March 8, 2025.
Harold (Hank) Hughes, ‘66. February 27, 2025. He was actively involved with De La Salle for a number of years, as a past board member and chair of the finance committee.
He was the father of Jeff Hughes, who graduated from De La Salle in 1991. Meanwhile, his nephews, William (Bill) Burkhardt III, ‘03, Matthew Burkhardt, ‘05, and James Burkhardt, ‘08, each also attended DLS.
Additionally, his brother-in-law, Jerry Quinn, was a class of ‘55 graduate of St. Joe’s.
Br. Joseph Jozwiak, FSC ‘65. October 20, 2025. Predeceased by his parents, Joseph and Clara Jozwiak, and survived by his sister, Lucille Zamierowski.
Br. Joe entered the Barrytown (N.Y.) Novitiate on July 1, 1965, and received the Religious Habit & Name of Joseph Celestine on September 1, 1965. Additionally, he pronounced his Perpetual Vows in Albany, N.Y., in 1974.
He served at De La Salle as part of two stints, first from 1983–90 and later from 1994–2002.
He was a valued administrator in his time at the Warren-based allboys, college preparatory school, serving as both principal and the school’s very first president.
He will be dearly missed by the entire DLS community.
Eternal rest grant unto Br. Joe, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him.
May his soul and all the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.
1970s
Dennis Dael, ‘70. July 12, 2025. His late father, Julius Dael, and late brother, Bob Dael, also graduated from De La Salle in 1945 and 1965, respectively.
Thomas Ferenc, ‘75. May 12, 2025. His twin brother, Titus, also attended De La Salle (1975 graduate).
Ferenc, affectionately known as “Moose,” was a standout shot-putter during his time at De La Salle. In 1975, he won the MHSAA Class B state championship for shot put, with a DLS school-record toss of 56'0”. He was inducted into the De La Salle Collegiate Athletic Hall of Fame in 2022.
Thomas (Thom) Mann, ‘71. February 24, 2025. His brother, Robert Mann, graduated from De La Salle in 1972.
Thom was a Lasallian man through and through and an avid supporter of DLS for many years. Additionally, he was a true ambassador for the school, and could often be seen taking photos at various alumni events and Pilot football games.
Undoubtedly, he left a lasting impact on all those who crossed paths with him at one point or another. He will be dearly missed by the DLS community.
1980s
Tommy Burns, ‘89. October 13, 2025.
David Waller, ‘86. March 20, 2025.
1990s
Daniel “Bo” LeBeau, ‘90. June 25, 2025. His sons, Lucas and Spencer LeBeau, also graduated from De La Salle in 2018 and 2021, respectively.
Bo was a standout soccer goalkeeper during his time with the Pilots, eventually becoming the No. 3-ranked goalie in the state of Michigan. He will be dearly missed by the entire DLS community.
David Mroz II, ‘93. March 24, 2025. His brother, Christopher, graduated from De La Salle in 1996.
Brandon Petitpren, '92. February 5, 2025.
2000s
John “Jack” Grimm, ‘17. July 18, 2025. His brothers, Michael and Matthew, also graduated from De La Salle in 2010 and 2015, respectively.
Jacob Henning, ‘12. February 18, 2025. His uncle, Kenneth Evans, ‘81, also attended De La Salle.
Extended Family
Angelo D'Agostini. June 2, 2025. He was the father of former Christian Brothers’ Dinner committee member Onorio D'Agostini.
He was also the grandfather of De La Salle graduates Angelo D'Agostini, ‘15, and Wayne Jannette, ‘20.
Michael D'Angelo. September 12, 2025. Father-in-law of Stephen Brillati, ‘93, and the grandfather of Jacob, ‘23, Salvatore (Sam), ‘24, and Andrew (AJ) Brillati, ‘28.
Michelle Darr. July 8, 2025. She was the mother of Austin Darr, ‘23.
An active member of the De La Salle community during Austin’s time as a student, Michelle will be remembered for her warm, infectious smile and the kindness she treated everyone with who was lucky enough to cross paths with her.
JoAnn Doherty. November 1, 2025. Wife of Jim Doherty, ‘63.
Thomas Hayman. July 25, 2025. He was the father of Tom Hayman, ‘94.
Vito Iacona. May 1, 2025. He was the father of Bill Iacona, ‘88, as well as the grandfather of Ben '18, Vito '20, Nathan '22, and Joey Iacona, '23.
In addition, Vito’s wife, Gennie Iacona, was an active member of the CBA for a number of years, and eventually served as a CBA officer.
Suzan Littlejohn. February 13, 2025. She was the wife of former longtime De La Salle art teacher Bill Littlejohn.
Paul Makar. September 24, 2025. His sons, Andy and Tim Makar, graduated from De La Salle Collegiate in 1992 and 1995, respectively.
Paul, an active member of the De La Salle Dads’ Club since 1989, was a huge proponent of the Lasallian mission.
He helped produce The Navigator, the photobook complement to the school's yearbook, for a number of years, and could often be seen working the door at a Pilot basketball or football game. Mr. Makar will be dearly missed by the entire DLS community.
Margaret Orlando. March 24, 2025. She was the wife of the late Joseph Orlando, St. Joe’s ‘56. Her son, Tim Orlando, was the one-time president of the Pilot Bar Association, De La Salle’s professional networking group for law professionals.
Additionally, Mrs. Orlando’s grandsons, Alex and Nick Orlando, graduated from De La Salle in 2009 and 2012, respectively.
Norma Rosiecki. August 31, 2025. Grandmother of Kendal Wilkinson, ‘07, Matthew Wilkinson, ‘09, and Stefan Wilkinson, ‘13.
James Sciturro. February 20, 2025. His son, Jamie Sciturro, graduated from De La Salle in 1983.
Meanwhile, his grandsons, Dominic ‘17, Jerome ‘23, and Jack Sciturro, ‘25, also attended DLS.
Lawrence “Larry” Stefani. July 13, 2025. He was the father of De La Salle alumni Chris Stefani, ‘93, and Dave Stefani, ‘96.
Pamela Watson-Palace. March 27, 2025. Mother of Dr. Peter Watson, ‘90.
Daniel Wisniewski Sr. August 11, 2025. His son, Daniel Wisniewski Jr., graduated from De La Salle Collegiate in 1993.
Additionally, Mr. Wisniewski’s nephews, Brian Wisniewski, ‘81, Jim Wisniewski, ‘81, Chris Wisniewski, ‘82, and Mark Wisniewski, ‘83, each also attended De La Salle. Meanwhile, his great nephews, Ryan Wisniewski, ‘16, and Michael Wisniewski, ‘21, also graduated from the all-boys, college preparatory school.
Jacqueline Wojcik. September 5, 2025. She was the beloved mother of Anthony (Tony) Wojcik, ‘83.
