VOL. 72, NO. 1 022 THE BAND MAR C H E S ON A T D E T R O I T C A T H O L I C CE N T R A L H I G H SC H O OL
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Submissions For inclusion in the next issue of the Aluminator all updates, articles, and photos must be received by October 31, 2022. Email submissions to: aluminator@catholiccentral.net. You may also mail your materials to us at: The Aluminator Detroit Catholic Central High School, 27225 Wixom Road, Novi, MI 48374.
A Note from the Editor
Many of you tell me that you begin reading your Aluminator by looking at “Alumni News.” Please don’t forget that those are the parts that we cannot include without help from you. We need you to send us updates of your milestones and accomplishments. Your travels and other activities are also of interest to your classmates.
Aluminator is published three times every year by the Detroit Catholic Central Office of Advancement and Alumni Relations. Circulation: 9,250 Submissions can be emailed to: aluminator@catholiccentral.net Submissions can be mailed to: The Aluminator Detroit Catholic Central High School 27225 Wixom Road Novi, MI 48374 To reach the Office of Advancement and Alumni Relations: (248) 596-3838 Fax: (248) 596-3839 For Information: Director of Advancement Dan Collins, Jr. 84 (248) Directordcollins596-3834@catholiccentral.netofDevelopmentand Alumni Relations Tim Burke 86 (248) tburke596-3844@catholiccentral.net Or visit us on the Web: www.catholiccentral.net On the Cover: CC Marching Band
Editor in Chief: Mike Carrier ’06 Managing Editors: Tim Burke 86 Dan Collins Jr. 84 Janice Sharkey Ed Turek ’85 Editors: Theresa Green Angela Hill Susan RudyJacquelineMartinMruzikSeichter59 Contributions: Jake Marmul ’07 Theresa Walle Photography: Scott Confer Anne Ink, LLC Mike Rossi - https://michaelrossi-cc.smugmug.com Shaun Sova 09 Brian Calloway, Lansing State Journal Design & Production: Anne Ink, LLC Detroit Catholic Central High School Administration: President - Ed Turek 85 Principaleturek@catholiccentral.net-Rev.PatrickFulton, CSB Thepfulton@catholiccentral.net
In This Issue FEATURES A Message from the President 2 Alumni News 3 Admissions Office Update 6 Alumni Association News 8 CC Alumni Profile - Spotlight on Matt Doneth ’12 14 Advancement News 16 THE BAND MARCHES ON 20-22 Basilian Father Bicentennial Celebration 23 Catholic League Hall of Fame 24 In Memoriam - Alumni & Extended Family 26 SCHOOL NEWS School Bells 28 Academic Team Wins 2022 NAQT National Championship 36 Sports Break 38 Keep Up With CC Online 40
VOL. 72, NO. 1
Digital photographs: Please provide the original electronic file. Digital photographs should be shot as large a size and in as high a resolution as possible for the camera used, with care being taken to get a sharp image. This yields the best printing results. Please send the raw or uncompressed original TIFF file or high-resolution JPEG as an attachment. Do not open and adjust or re-save into any other format. Photos should not be embedded into a Word document.
Page 20 Page 28 *Based on a 2020 GM new vehicle sales report. #1 Cadillac Dealer in the Nation!* Edward J. Pobur Class of ’81 (248) 476-4466 41350 Grand River Ave., Novi, MI 248.476.4466 • CadillacofNovi.com 2022 Cadillac ESCALADE
You will often hear us talk about the fact that we are a school for active young men. The music program traditionally homes 10-15% of our student population. Our athletics program houses close to 70% of our students, and robotics, quiz bowl, and our other activities round out the 95% of our student population who participate in at least one optional activity outside of the 8:00 a.m.-2:45 p.m. school day. Without these options for students to engage in our community, Catholic Central would simply not be the school it is. If you have been on campus recently, you’ve seen the construction. It’s exciting to see the progress on the George and Mary Turek Hall of Science, the JV baseball field turf, and the new connector road that will add a north entrance to our campus on 12 Mile Road. If it has been a while since your last visit, I invite you to come and see all of the incredible activity. Join us at Boys’ Bowl, or simply stop by the school to visit us in the Alumni Office. You are always welcome home. Your Fellow Shamrock, Mr. Ed Turek ’85 President
2008 - ERIC INGRODY and his wife, JoAnna Klotz, were married on November 19, 2021.
THE HAPPENING ’90s 1999 & 2007ANTHONY and MICHAEL TOMEY and their company, 4 Detroiters Liquor LLC, were recognized when their 8 Mile Vodka won Best In Class Vodka and Best Overall Vodka in the world at the prestigious San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
PresidentA Message from the Dear Alumni and Friends, The 2022-2023 school year is upon us, and am confident that it will be one of our best years yet! want to begin by congratulating Greg Normandin ’78 on an incredible career and a well-deserved retirement. Forty years is a lifetime of service to the young men of Catholic Central, and the impact of that service on our world cannot be measured. I hope you enjoy reading about his career, as featured in this issue. We look forward to the continued growth of our music program under the leadership of Logan Bonathan ’07 who now serves as only the third band director in our school’s history.
Kneeling in front: Mike Madden ’65 and Rich Czop ’65
Left to right: Matt Orrico ’08, Rick Lorenz ’08, Chris Singer ’08, Eric Ingrody ’08 JoAnna Klotz, Kellen Lynch ’08, Cam Innis ’08, Joe Barnes ’08, and Nieko Ianni ’07
THE VIRTUAL ’00s 2005 - MICHAEL OAKLEAF and his wife, Sara, welcomed their son, Carter Michael, on May 7, 2022. Carter weighed 6.82 lbs. and measured 19.5 inches. Michael is the Director of Operations at CC. 2008 - KEN HERMANN and his wife, Molly, welcomed twins, Anna and Blake, on April 28, 2022. Blake will be a future Shamrock in the Class of 2040. They join big brother, Mark, who will be a future Shamrock as well in the Class of 2039.
THE PSYCHEDELIC ’60s
1965 - MIKE MADDEN and RICH CZOP won Silver Medals in basketball at the National Senior Olympics in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. They played for Madden’s Code Blue team from Alabama. Dr. Czop missed the class reunion team which Madden put together in 2012 with Leo Kowalyk ’65, the late Mike Gearty ’65, Mike Harrison ’65, and the late Rich Lewandowski ’65 Madden kept at it with the over-60 gym rats in Alabama. Czop looked him up in 2015 and joined the team. After achieving Gold Medals at the 2017 Games in Birmingham and 2019 Games in Albuquerque in the 70+ Division II, they moved up to the 75+ Division I this year and went 7-0 into the finals, where they led at half but couldn’t hold on for the National Championship. They’ll try again in Pittsburgh in July 2023.
THE GROOVY ’70s 1971 - FRANK TANANA was inducted into the Michigan Baseball Hall of Fame at Jackson Field, home of the Lansing Lugnuts, on Saturday, July 9, 2022. Frank was drafted by the California Angels in 1971, and his major league career spanned 21 seasons. He was a three-time All Star, won 240 games, amassed 2,773 strikeouts, and finished with a career 3.66 ERA. He was inducted into CHSL Hall of Fame in 1977, the Michigan Sports Hall of Fame in 2006, and the inaugural class of the CC Athletic Hall of Fame in 2007.
Back row, left to right: Joe Allbritton, Bill Hill, Tony Willis, Buddy Cope, and Glenn Kemp Frank Tanana ’71 and his wife, Cathy Michael Tomey ’07 and Anthony Tomey ’99
2 A MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT • FALL 2022 3ALUMNI NEWS • FALL 2022 ALUMNI NEWS
Staying Connected With Your Classmates
THE VIRTUAL ’00s continued
THE CONNECTED ’10s
2013 - RYAN DEWAN and Kylie Doyle were married on May 27, 2022. Ryan is continuing to build the Social Media/Video Production agency, Wave Media, and Kylie runs her own Women’s Health Coaching business. They live in Berkley and spend most of their free time traveling and taking care of their two dogs, Goose and Maverick.
2015 - NICO STANTE and his wife, Anna, welcomed their second child, Santino Lewis, on July 7, 2022. He weighed 7 lbs., 14 oz. and measured 22 inches. Santino is the grandson of CC Assistant Principal, Dave Lewis ‘79 CC FACULTY AMANDA LOFFLER and her husband, Scott, welcomed their daughter, Helen Adrian Charlotte, on July 20, 2022. Mrs. Loffler is a teacher, Business Department Chair, and DECA moderator at CC. MIKE RODRIGUEZ was recognized at the inaugural Beat the Streets gala held at the Detroit Athletic Club on June 2, 2022. Coach Rod followed up his hall of fame wrestling coaching career by co-founding the Beat the Streets wrestling program in Detroit in 2009. 2022 2022
Left to right: John Ronayne III ’64 Tim Ronayne ’74 Brendan Ronayne ’78, Ian Ronayne ’08 Matt Ronayne ’80, Pat Ronayne ’66, and Kelly Ronayne ’83 Harrison Nguyen ’08 with his parents, Hung and Loan
5FALL
2008MBA,NGUYEN,HARRISONMD,MPH, recently graduated as Chief Resident from Emory inacademicAwardFr.recipientHarrisonDermatology.wastheoftheDanielDillon,CSBasthevaledictorian2008.
2008 - IAN RONAYNE is the Head Rugby Coach at CC. Ian is part of the illustrious Ronayne Family with several generations of CC alumni. Ian’s father, Tim ’74, and several uncles attended a rugby game in May 2022 to support Ian and the Shamrocks.
2013 - MIKE BABICZ and his fiancé, Lawgraduate2017.DePaulandandJunetoChiglo,Kennedyareengagedbemarriedin2023.MikeKennedymetatgraduatedfromUniversityinKennedywillfromLoyolaSchoolin2022.
Left to right: Mike Carrier ’06, Brent Butwill ’18, Shane Butwill ’10, Steve Rodriguez ’72, Tom Blaine ’70, Nemir Nadhir ’78 Rocky McHenry ’71, Coach Mike Rodriguez, Tony Tedesco ’71, Mitch Hancock ’00, and June Rodriguez Not Pictured: John Foley ’73, Bob Moreau ’75, Dave Lewis ’79, Chris Rodriguez ’89 Dylan Hagan ’10 Casey Hagan ’12, Malik Amine ’14, Myles Amine ’15, Cameron Amine ’19, and Brendin Yatooma ’20
4 ALUMNI NEWS • FALL
Front row, left to right: Connor Dewan ’21 Chris Dulzo ’14, Pat Dewan ’80, Ryan Dewan ’13, Kylie Dewan, Mike Dewan ’85, Mark Merucci ’87, and Joe Dulzo ’85 Back row, left to right: Eddie Turek ’13, Danny Turek ’21, Tommy Turek ’18, Chase Spieser ’13, Jake Glaser ’13, Brendan Dewan ’17 Justin Dewan ’24, AJ Turek ’14, Paul Rosowski ’83, Ed Turek ’85, Chris Berent ’13, Dan Doyle ’84, Ryan Doyle ’11 Tim McClorey ’82 Kyle Dalal ’15, and David Dulzo ’12
Dear Fellow Shamrocks, As we begin another school year, am pleased to welcome 250 new freshmen, and 18 transfer students to our school community (as of August 1). These new families represent more than 80 feeder schools, 57 zip codes, including families moving to the area from Brazil, Canada, Texas, and New York, a prior family returning from Florida, and an alumnus moving home from Taiwan. The young men possess a wealth of diverse talents and interests, and cannot wait to see the impact they have on our school! By far, our biggest recruiting tool continues to be the word of mouth from our current and alumni families. Thank you to all of you who encouraged a family to reach out or who brought a new family with you to an event on campus. Please continue to encourage families to reach out to us, and we will guide them through the rest of the process. In addition to our normal Shadow Days and tours, we are excited to offer some new options for families looking to explore Catholic Central. We will be hosting online Admissions “Tuesday Town Halls” the first Tuesday evening of each month, which will consist of a 30-minute Zoom presentation and Q&A, and we are also offering “Wednesday Walkabouts” the second Wednesday of each month, which will consist of an evening tour open to families who may not be able to make it to campus during the school day. You will also see some new faces in our office, as we welcomed Mrs. Faye Maddox as our office assistant back in April. With Mr. David Sofran’s move to the Athletics Office as the new Assistant Athletic Director, we are excited to welcome Mrs. Kelly McSweeney (married to Dan McSweeney ’94) as our new Admissions Associate. Kelly joins us from Mercy High School, where she served as Director of Admissions for the last six years. As always, we welcome all referrals and questions regarding admissions to Catholic Central. You can email us at admissions@catholiccentral.net or schedule an appointment online at www.catholiccentral.net/admissions
God bless, and go Shamrocks! Jake Marmul ’07 Director of Admissions and Public Relations (248) jmarmul@catholiccentral.net596-3874
6 ADMISSIONS UPDATE • FALL 2022 Update
ADMISSIONS OFFICE
The Annual Alumni Dinner and All Classes Reunion is scheduled for April 27, 2023, at St. Mary’s Cultural Center in Livonia. The 2023 Fr. Canning Harrison, CSB Distinguished Alumnus Honorees are Mr. Frank Jonna ’67 and Dr. Larry Schenden ’79. Please mark that date in your calendars and plan to join us to celebrate with your fellow alumni. The purpose of the Alumni Association is embodied in the mission statement which appears to the left of the President’s letter every month. In essence, we exist to increase engagement with the school, its current students, and among alumni.
Dave Brauer ’84 Alumni Association President Mass – 7:20 a.m. Every School-Day Morning Please Pray With Us!
17th SeaSon of the alumni aSSoc iation BaSketBall league (aaBl) YOUR SCHOLARSHIPCLASSFUND
Special 10:00 a.m. access to the Comerica Gridiron Club prior to the game and during the game! It’s a great place to meet. To purchase tickets, go to: https://fevo.me/dccday. Any questions, call the Office of Advancement & Alumni Relations at (248) 596-3838.
When: Saturday, March 18, 2023 Noon - 4:00 p.m. Save the Date! All Classes Florida Reunion
Who: All Classes of CC Alumni and Family What: Mass, Dinner, Camaraderie, CC Fellowship Where: Sharky’s on the Pier - Venice, FL Owned by Mike Pachota ’71 www.SharkysOnThePier.com
MissionAssociationStatement
The 2023 AABL Season tips off in early January 2023 and will run through mid-April 2023. All games are played at CC. All teams must be CC alumni, fathers of alumni, and/or current CC dads. Sign up today!
Greetings, Fellow Alumni and CC Family, I am excited to report that the STEM construction has begun and is in full swing. This project is a true game-changer for CC and, once completed, will greatly enhance the student experience on campus.
MapleRedDetroitWingsvs.TorontoLeafsStaytunedfor updates and to purchase tickets.
The mission of the Catholic Central Alumni Association is to provide services, benefits, and activities of interest to the alumni, to foster an alumni body which is interested and involved in the affairs and functions of the school, and to provide such assistance to the school as may from time to time be requested of it.
Alumni
…Catholic Central Cares About You JesUs Christ, is the Reason for Catholic Central
The start of the 17th season of the CC Alumni Association Basketball League (AABL) is just around the corner. If you have not already done so and are interested in playing or forming a team, please contact AABL Commissioner, Andy Slankster ’94 at aslankster@slanksterfinancial.com or (248) 470-6098.
As always, it’s a great day to be a Shamrock, and God loves you!
SAVE THE DATE CC Night at Little Caesars Arena January 12, 2023
Every CC alumnus has the opportunity to help other young men live the CC experience through their class specific scholarship fund, helping them achieve their goals, earning a CC diploma, and becoming men of Goodness, Discipline, and Knowledge. The students who receive class scholarship fund assistance are in good standing with the school and qualify for need-based tuition assistance. The reality of this generosity is that without it, many CC graduates and classmates would not have received a CC education or experience. Each of us and a gift, regardless of the amount, makes a difference. Please support your class scholarship and the young men of CC by going to www.catholiccentral.net/giving/make-a-gift.
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I know we are all busy with our lives, family, jobs, etc. While recognizing the many things competing for your attention, I urge you to consider carving out a sliver of time (for yourself) to engage with your alma mater and fellow alumni. I guarantee you will feel refreshed and fulfilled from the experience. Consider stopping by the school for a look around, participate in one of the many events/activities sponsored by the Alumni Association or the school, or have a less formal get together with your friends from CC. It’s not easy finding time to do the things we have to do, let alone the things we want to do. I can tell you without hesitation that every time I attend a CC event, I come away enriched and reminding myself that the effort was rewarded many times over. You are a part of the CC Family, and that involvement did not end when you graduated. Rather, that was just the beginning. Take advantage of your relationship to this wonderful community. Engage. You will be happy you did.
All CC alumni, family, and friends are invited to a fun day at Ford Field! Detroit Lions vs. Washington Commanders Sunday, September 18, 2022, at 1:00 p.m. Tickets $58
Robert Santello ’58 Gymnasium Includes Athletic Hall of Fame Inductions
• Register at www.catholiccentral.net/boysbowl Sunday, October 2 9:00 a.m. • Boys’ Bowl Mass & Breakfast
Nominations are now being accepted for the Class of 2023 Catholic Central Athletic Hall of Fame!
The Catholic Central Athletic Hall of Fame Committee needs your help! It is now taking nominations for induction into the Class of 2023.
Detailed information on the mission of the CC Athletic Hall of Fame, the categories that can be nominated, and how to submit your nomination(s) is available on the CC Athletic Hall of Fame web page: https://dccshamrocks.net/honors/hall-of-fame or scan the QR code Thank you for helping us continue to recognize and preserve the rich heritage and great tradition of our outstanding Detroit Catholic Central High School athletic program.
Catholic Central Athletic Hall of Fame Don Chomicz ’54 George Kunec ’64 Mike Prince ’76 Mike Nugent ’81 Todd Johnson ’87 1987 Baseball Team 1997 Hockey Team 2001 Cross Country Team 2002 Hockey Team
BOWL
To see what your class reunion plans look like and to register, Please visit www.catholiccentral.net/boysbowl. Questions? Contact the Office of Alumni Relations at (248) 596-3838.
2022 marks class reunions for these classes: Reunions 2022 - Boys’ Bowl Weekend at Catholic Central Boys’ Bowl Weekend will be the focal point for the following classes celebrating reunions this year: 78th BOYS’ WEEKEND Athletic Hall of Fame • Reunion Weekend • September 30 - October 2, 2022
10 ALUMNI ASSOCIATION • FALL 2022 11ALUMNI ASSOCIATION • FALL 2022 Class of 1957 Class of 1961 + 1 Class of 1962 Class of 1967 Class of 1972 - 50 years Class of 1977 Class of 1982 Class of 1987 Class of 1992 Class of 1997 - 25 years Class of 2002 Class of 2007 Class of 2012 Class of 2017 - (will also have a class gathering Friday, November 25, 2022)
• Tickets are $5 and can be purchased the day of the game. In 2006, the Detroit Catholic Central Administration announced and recognized the first class of the Detroit Catholic Central Athletic Hall of Fame. Its purpose is to establish and maintain recognition for the rich heritage and storied tradition of academic and athletic excellence of the renowned athletic program at Detroit Catholic Central High School. The Hall of Fame acknowledges the contributions and accomplishments of the individuals and teams which have earned recognition and have provided excellent examples of Goodness, Discipline, and Knowledge.
• Complimentary - hosted by the CC Alumni Association 1:00 p.m. • Boys’ Bowl Football Game vs. De La Salle Fr. Richard Elmer, CSB ’46 Stadium – “The Elm”
Nominations may be submitted by alumni as well as by those who have an association with or interest in CC.
•
CC Athletic Hall of Fame Inductions – Class of 2022 Inductions will take place on Sunday, October 2, 2022, at the Gerry Di Ponio ’65 Boys’ Bowl Mass & Breakfast and during halftime of the 78th Boys’ Bowl Football Game against De La Salle. All previous Athletic Hall of Fame Honorees are encouraged to attend.
Friday, September 30 9:30 a.m. • Boys’ Bowl Assembly Robert Santello ’58 Gymnasium Saturday, October 1 6:00 p.m. • All Classes Reunion Gathering at CC • CC Camaraderie • Casual Dress, Spouses/Guests Welcome
• Cost: $40 Per Person (Food, Beer, Wine, Soft Drinks)
Left to right: Jeff Wiska ’77, Coach Tom Mach, Ed Turek ’85, Jimmy Burns ’04
Jeff went on to have vested years in the NFL with the New York Giants, Cleveland Browns, and Miami Dolphins. He also played two years in the United States Football League. For the past 27 years, he has been Distribution Center Manager for Boise Cascade Building Materials
Next Year’s Save The Date: Thursday, April 27, 2023, at St. Mary’s Cultural Center as we recognize and honor Mr. Frank Jonna ’67 and Dr. Larry Schenden ’79.
JeffDistribution.andhis wife, Kim, were married at Our Lady of Sorrows by Fr. Norb Clemens, CSB in 1987. Kim was a teacher in the Farmington Public School system for 33 years and was active in the CC Mothers’ Club. They have three wonderful children, Dr. Ryon Wiska ’07 (Erin), Kelsey Jensen (Nick), and Garrett Wiska ’11. They have two grandsons, Luke Wiska and Jude Jensen.
After CC, Jeff attended Michigan State University on a football scholarship. At Michigan State, he was a three-year starter at offensive tackle and part of the 1978 Big 10 Championship team. He earned a degree in Business Management and was drafted in the 7th round of the 1982 NFL draft.
After CC, Michael attended the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Microbiology in 1979. Until August 1981, he served as a lab assistant in the department of biological chemistry at the University of Michigan Medical School while also serving as a part-time campus minister. Archbishop Byrnes continued as a campus minister through University Christian Outreach, which serves the campuses of the University of Michigan and Eastern Michigan University, and worked in that capacity until 1985.
On May 25, 2021, alumni from the Class of 2021 returned home to CC for an informal, fun BBQ filled with CC camaraderie in the Shamrock Pavilion at “The Elm.”
On Thursday, April 28, 2022, Catholic Central awarded Archbishop Michael J. Byrnes ’76 and Mr. Jeffrey R. Wiska ’77 with the Fr. Canning F. Harrison, CSB Distinguished Alumnus Award at the 33rd Annual Alumni Dinner and All Classes Reunion. Both of these CC men represent Mary, Alma Mater with humility, character, and integrity. This award is given each year to outstanding alumni and Basilian Fathers who have honored Mary, Alma Mater through exemplifying Goodness, Discipline, and Knowledge in their personal and professional lives.
Jeff has stayed close to CC since graduating. While in the U.S.F.L., he coached football at CC. He was very active in the Dads’ Club for years, chairing several events, most notably the Football Corn Roast for 15 years.
ClAss of 2021 reunion
The Alumni Dinner and All Classes Reunion serves as a great opportunity for classmates of all years, family, and friends of CC to gather together and share in some CC camaraderie. This year, the event took place at St. Mary’s Cultural Center in Livonia. A special thank you to the Rowe Family, and staff for hosting this great gathering. Thank you to Pat Byrnes ’77 and Coach Tom Mach for their presence and tribute of our honorees.
33rd Annual Alumni Dinner AnD All ClAsses reunion
Active in the Charismatic Renewal Movement, he served as office manager for the outreach group, Servant Ministries, in Ann Arbor from 1985 until 1990. He entered formation at Sacred Heart Major Seminary in Detroit in 1990, where he later earned a Master of Divinity degree and a Master of Arts degree with a concentration in Scripture. Archbishop Michael Byrnes is presently the Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Agana, Guam. Ordained a priest of Detroit in 1996, he has served in a variety of capacities throughout 22 years of ministry: parochial vicar; priest graduate student at the Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome; Vice Rector and Assistant Professor of Scripture at Sacred Heart Major Seminary; and pastor of Presentation - Our Lady of Victory parish. In May 2011, he was ordained a bishop and served as an auxiliary bishop in the Archdiocese of Detroit until October 31, 2016.
JEFF WISKA ’77
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Jeff also served on the CC Alumni Board, CC Finance Committee, and the CC Board of Directors. He was inducted into the CC Athletic Hall of Fame in 2009 and was the recipient of the Fr. John Menner, CSB Award in 2013 for his service and support with the Dads’ Club.
Legacy Reunion Mass and Luncheon Celebrates Men of CC and Devotion to Mary, Alma Mater
Held this year on June 8, 2022, the annual Catholic Central Legacy Reunion Mass and Luncheon celebrates the men of CC and their devotion to Mary, Alma Mater. With over 160 alumni and guests in attendance, this special gathering is held in conjunction with the original June Feast of St. Basil and includes all of the classes that are 50 or more years removed from their CC graduation (1929-1972). This includes alumni from our first three school buildings on Harper Avenue, Belmont Avenue, and Outer Drive. This great day of CC camaraderie and fellowship started with Mass in the CC Chapel, followed by an informal lunch and gathering. Mass was celebrated by Fr. Bob Schikora ’65, who also is one of the founding members of the Alumni Glee Club. With a wide variety of class years represented, our most seasoned alumnus in attendance was Jerome Stocking ’43, who came with his daughter, Mary Mulkeran. Furthermore, we welcomed “the rookies,” the young fellas from the Class of 1972 who are celebrating their 50th year of graduation from Catholic Central. We thank all our alumni in attendance for their example and love for Mary, Alma Mater. A special thank you to the entire Alumni Glee Club for leading us in song during Mass.
Fr. Clemens once put it this way: “Catholic Central High School - The High School portion is what you do from 8:00 in the morning to 2:30 for the time you’re here. The magic of the Catholic Central part is what you do with it after 2:30 while you’re here and what you do with it the rest of your life.”
Recognizes: Archbishop Michael J. Byrnes ‘76 and Mr. Jeffrey R. Wiska ‘77
ARCHBISHOP MICHAEL BYRNES ’76
Left to right: Ed Turek ’85, Pat Byrnes ’77, Jimmy Burns ’04
Owen V. Lee, Esq. ’88 Vincent Lee ’53 NMLS# 130562 (248) 408-6415 info@smprate.com successmortgagepartners.com http://nmlsconsumeraccess.org/ EntityDetails.aspx/COMPANY/130562 Conventional • FHA • VA • Purchase • Refinance • Reverse Mortgage PROUDLY SERVING: ALABAMA, ARIZONA, ARKANSAS, COLORADO, CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, FLORIDA, GEORGIA, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, IOWA, KANSAS, KENTUCKY, LOUISIANA, MASSACHUSETTS, MARYLAND, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSISSIPPI, MISSOURI, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, NORTH CAROLINA, OHIO, OKLAHOMA, PENNSYLVANIA, SOUTH CAROLINA, TENNESSEE, TEXAS, VIRGINIA, WASHINGTON D.C., WISCONSIN & WYOMING CATHOLIC CENTRAL ALUMNI OWNERS & MANAGEMENT It’s great to be a Shamrock! (248) 408-6415 We’re Growing and Hiring! We outperform our competition in quality, speed, and pricing, and it shows with our ability to now serve over 32 states! To stay ahead of the competition, and to consistently perform above expectation, our rapid growth necessitates expansion in all departments. We are in search of mortgage real estate professionals with success as loan officers, assisting loan officers, or mortgage operations. Many professional career opportunities are available, including: LOAN OFFICERS • HR • UNDERWRITING • IT RECRUITING • CLOSING • PROCESSING • MARKETING ACCOUNTING • LOAN PARTNERS • ADMINISTRATION • LEGAL Matt Doneth ’12 and his girlfriend, Christin
One of the ways he plans to bring awareness is through creating a professional network of people who stutter and to eventually create a mentorship program for kids and young people so they can feel confident in who they are. “In the past year, I have met amazing people who stutter. There are people in politics, finance, entertainment; there are doctors and lawyers; there are people from all walks of life who stutter,” said Doneth. “One of the things
Matthew played varsity basketball and football during his time at CC and eventually played football at the collegiate level for Cornell University. His goal-oriented mindset launched him into a successful career at a global asset management firm in New York City.
Doneth wants students to know they are not alone in their vulnerabilities, and if they know someone who stutters, he hopes students will reach out to them “Stutteringdirectly.isvery misunderstood. It’s a paradox because often those who stutter hide it very well from the public eye, so people don’t even realize they stutter,” said Doneth. “The vulnerabilities that we each have are many times our greatest strengths. want young people to know they can do anything they set their mind to – they just have to believe.”
Matthew’s advice for others struggling with a vulnerability is to find a support system.
This spring, Doneth was asked to join the board of directors for the American Institute of Stuttering, a nonprofit organization providing universally affordable, state-of-the-art speech therapy to people of all ages who stutter. He wholeheartedly accepted, knowing firsthand how much the organization helped him. “I’ve gone to speech therapy my whole life, but during COVID, I began working with AIS for speech therapy because they offered online sessions,” Doneth shared. However, what he appreciates most about AIS is their refreshing approach and the model they teach to patients.
Stuttering is a speech disorder where someone knows what they want to say and how they want to say it, but at times, they have disfluency in their speech that takes the form of blocks or repetitions. It impacts around five percent of children and one percent of adults. There are three million people in the U.S. that stutter and 70 million worldwide.
14 CC ALUMNI PROFILE - SPOTLIGHT ON MATT DONETH ‘12 • FALL 2022 by Theresa Walle, CC Digital Content Manager Matt Doneth ’12, a Voice for the Stuttering Community re ex blue CC ALUMNI PROFILE Spotlighting Alumni & Members of Our CC Family Stuttering is a speech disorder not often heard on television, in movies, or on the radio – and when it is, it’s often as a joke at the person’s expense. Catholic Central alumnus Matthew Doneth ’12 is on the forefront of changing the narrative for those who struggle with the speech disorder. As someone who has lived with a stutter his entire life, he feels a newfound acceptance and appreciation of his stutter after realizing the breadth of change he could make in the lives of others.
“If it’s a family member, another classmate, coach, or teacher, find that person or group that you trust and talk to them about your struggle. Having that support system for yourself is huge. For me, my girlfriend, Christin, has been a huge support system and catalyst for me in changing the way think about my stutter,” said Doneth.
I’ve realized in being open about my own vulnerability, is that everyone is working through something, whether it’s speech, mental health, physical health – all people have their personal vulnerability that they’re working through. What I’ve learned from my own experience is being open about it and talking about it creates a level of authenticity that people appreciate. It has also helped me to change my own mindset about my stutter. Rather than viewing my stutter as a weakness, have realized it’s my greatest strength. I’ve developed a level of empathy and strength through my own Matthewexperiences.”isnostranger to success. His ambitious attitude began when he was in middle school and had his sights set on attending Catholic Central, despite the 45-minute, one-way commute from his hometown in Fenton, “CatholicMichigan.Central instilled a level of belief and self-confidence in myself,” said Doneth. “The self-confidence and belief were formed by the brotherhood, classmates, coaches, teachers, – all of it. I still say every day, ‘The magic is in believing,’ – a saying Coach Mach would preach to us. It’s a saying that means a lot to me, and I really believe in it. That belief in oneself – that if you believe in yourself, you can do anything – that belief was formed at Catholic Central.”
“The main thing I am focused on as an AIS board member is bringing awareness to stuttering. Representation matters,” said Doneth. “I hope by being open about my journey it can help someone else through theirs.”
Matthew lives in New York City and works at Apollo Global Management as an associate in real estate private equity. In his spare time, Matthew enjoys traveling and exploring new restaurants with his girlfriend. For more information on stuttering and AIS, visit www.stutteringtreatment.org. If you would like to reach out to Matthew, you can by email at Matthew.D.Doneth@gmail.om.
“The AIS model is based on the concept of open stutter, the idea that the most difficult part of stuttering isn’t the block or the repetition, it’s everything that happens under the surface. Many times, the fear of the upcoming block is worse than the actual block. There’s mental gymnastics of always trying to hide your stutter. The AIS model is different from most speech therapy models in that at AIS, the goal isn’t fluency, the goal is acceptance – it’s a model that resonated with me.”
Why I chose to attend CC: “When I was in 8th grade, I was deciding on attending high school either at the parish high school next to the elementary school I was attending or at an all-boys school such as CC High. My 8th Grade CYO basketball coach took several of us to Calihan Hall at the University of Detroit to see a big Catholic League game between U of D High and CC High School. The atmosphere was amazing! The sound of all boys cheering loudly and often in unison shook the stands, especially the side where the CC student body was. I was hooked. I had to attend a school with the spirit of CC!”
CC’s impact on my life: “Attending CC gave me an education, an athletic experience, and an exposure to so many guys with talent, intellect, and ambition that I would not have received anywhere else. I am very sure that going to CC gave me the confidence to attend an excellent university, attain a position in a major hospital, and eventually a career as a hospital administrator, which I still am today.”
On June 9, 2022, Tim Brady ‘77 and his wife, Theresa, visited Catholic Central and spent the afternoon touring our building and campus, including the Fr. Richard Elmer, CSB ‘46 Stadium and Shamrock Park, Fr. James Martin, CSB Baseball Complex, and Al Moran ‘57 Field. This visit took place after Tim had spent the previous evening with his classmates from the great Class of 1977. Over the course of the two days, many stories were told and retold. Lots of smiles and laughter took place, and even a few tears were shed. Tim is a loyal and generous Shamrock - a gentleman who has lived a life guided by the virtues of Goodness, Discipline, and Knowledge. Tim has enjoyed much success and happiness in life and also tremendous sorrow and sadness. It was CC that was able to provide some comfort to Tim and Theresa in 2020 after their son, Timothy, died at the young age of 30. CC was honored to recognize Timothy John Brady at our annual Memorial Mass in October 2020. It is men like Tim who keep the Spirit of CC alive and make it possible for future generations of Shamrocks to experience the brotherhood. Tim was kind enough to answer the following questions for this feature.
Fondest CC memory: “So many, but the one that stands out even today is the memory of Graduation Day in 1977. Sitting in Ford Auditorium surrounded by 200 seniors in white tuxedos, listening to the speakers, and then walking up the aisle to receive our diplomas made me realize, even then, how fortunate was to have attended this school with a class of really talented guys. I knew then, just as I do now, that from this group I would have loyal friends for life.”
Why I support CC: “My dad once spoke to my college baseball team at our banquet after our senior year season. He reminded us how fortunate we were to have been able to attend good schools that led us to be able to play ball and get a first-rate college degree. He told us to, “Remember to always give back!”
” DONOR TESTIMONIAL TIM BRADY ’77 REMEMBERS TO ALWAYS GIVE BACK TO CC TDA Insurance & Financial Agency “Our Shamrock Family Protecting Yours” AUTO HOME BUSINESS LIFE HEALTH Call for a quote and mention you saw our ad in the Aluminator and we will donate $10 back to CC! Phone: (877) 832 6690 Email: ddiederich@tdanow.com Dan Diederich '15 Matt Diederich 18 Josh Fanning '13 Your Health Insurance Exchange Specialist Mark Merucci, CHRS ® — Class of '87 Certified HealthCare Reform Specialist M & M Benefit Group, LLC 39500 High Pointe Blvd., Suite 400 Novi, MI 48375 (248) 380-7800 | markm@mmbenefitgroup.com WWW.MMBENEFITGROUP.COM HEALTH AND LIFE INSURANCE FOR INDIVIDUALS AND GROUPS 47720 Grand River Ave. Novi, MI 48374 Office (248) 344 1800 www.remericaunited.com Millions Sold! Residential, Investment,Commercial,&PropertyManagement Roy Wilson & Associates TALK TO A SHAMROCK! For All Your Real Estate Needs... Roy Wilson ’66 Associate Broker Cell (586) 854 roywilson@remerica.com8777 Roy Wilson ’00 Realtor Associate Cell (248) 417 realtorroywilson@gmail.com2738 2013 - 2021 47720 Grand River Ave. Novi, MI 48374 Office (248) 344 1800 www.remericaunited.com Millions Sold! Residential, Investment,Commercial,&PropertyManagement Roy Wilson & Associates TALK TO A SHAMROCK! For All Your Real Estate Needs... Roy Wilson ’66 Associate Broker Cell (586) 854 roywilson@remerica.com8777 Roy Wilson ’00 Realtor Associate Cell (248) 417 realtorroywilson@gmail.com2738 2013 2021 INSPIRE OTHERS TO GIVE BACK Would you like to motivate and inspire others to “Give Back” to CC? We invite you to tell your story and answer the same questions that Tim did. Tell us your story by emailing callcatholiccentral.netaluminator@or(248)596-3838. New giv ng option now availab e! Text @DCCHS to 52014 TEXT TO GIVE GIVE A GI F T TODAY!
17FALL 202216 ADVANCEMENT NEWS • FALL 2022 ADVANCEMENT NEWS
My dad’s words stuck with me, so I am glad to support CC so it can continue to give young men an experience that will be a foundation for them to make a difference in whatever they do in life. Go Shamrocks!
ADVANCEMENT NEWS
Regular Zoomers include Terry Malone, Tom Nugent ’78, Tom Abraham ’78, Jim Mellon ’78, Andy McAlpine ’78, Charlie Rashid ’78, Dan Finn ’78, John Wojnarowski ’78, and Jay Snyder. The group has expanded to include Jeff Snyder ’77, John Horning ’77, Brian Thomson ’77, and Bill Farrell ’77. Guests have included Athletic Director Emeritus Bob Santello ’58, Coach Tom Mach, Coach Jim Gibbons ’68, Rocky McHenry ’71, and Orin Tibbits ’71
Jay Snyder will tell you that these meetings have aided him in his fight and played a role in his recent diagnosis of his cancer being in remission. One of the most memorable Sundays took place when Jim Gibbons shared the news with Jay that he had been selected for induction in the CC Athletic Hall of Fame.
The guys share stories, laughter, and even a few tears. They celebrate their lives, their accomplishments, and share their struggles. They love each other and lean on each other. Thanks to these Zooms, these Shamrock brothers are seen and heard every Sunday. The energy and spirit of the Zooms is amazing.
A great big THANK YOU to so many of you who responded to our appeal on our annual St. Basil Day of Giving on June 14, 2022. Thanks to you, a NEW TRADITION was born in the form of the Fr. Ned Donoher, CSB CC Athletic Spirit Fund! In just one day, over $63,000 was raised to support Shamrock student-athletes. This is a permanent, perpetual fund. You may give to the Fr. Ned Fund at any time now and in the future. To give, text @DCCHS to 52014.
18 ADVANCEMENT NEWS • FALL 2022 19FALL 2022
WE WOULD LIKE TO SHARE YOUR CLASS STORY WITH THE CC COMMUNITY. How does your class stay connected? What unique ways does your class keep the Spirit of CC alive in your hearts? Please share your story with us! Email aluminator@catholiccentral.net or call (248) 596-3838.
The Class of 1978 is living the brotherhood and setting an example for all to follow. It is said CC is not just a four-year experience, but a lifetime experience. It is four years forever. The magnitude of the CC brotherhood can only be truly understood by those who have experienced it. It is special. No doubt about it!
LIVING THE BROTHERHOOD - CLASS OF 1978
Every Sunday at 7:00 p.m. for the past two years, the Class of 1978 gathers together via Zoom. Brother Shamrocks from all over the country, many who had not seen or spoken to each other in over 20 years, reconnect. Spearheaded by Terry Malone ’78, the group has branded themselves “Club 6565,” and the impetus for their gathering was to share their love and support for their brother, Jay Snyder ’78, who was battling cancer.
WEDDINGS • CORPORATE • SOCIAL
SHARE YOUR CLASS STORY
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A NEW TRADITION BEGINS
“It’s such a great feeling to work so hard and have a performance go well. There’s nothing like seeing the pride and joy on the faces of the students and their families.”
Mr. Normandin has found ways to meet both the needs and the talents of his many students, developing the Concert Band, the Symphony Band, the Jazz Band, the String Orchestra, and the full Orchestra. He has also added the popular World Drumming Class to the curriculum. “The highlights have to include the trips – to London, Paris, Rome, Madrid, and Honolulu. One year we warmed up on the lawn of Westminster Abbey!”
Mr. Greg Normandin ’78 has been the bearer of that torch since 1982. “What never changed in my 40 years of teaching is that students showed up in the fall excited and ready to make music. From the first runthrough of the school song to the last note of each Spring Concert, there was always a focused desire to be great. That was every single year!” Greg has inspired that focus for excellence to build an award-winning program that produces not only outstanding musical performances, but also young men of poise and creativity.
Tradition, constancy, devotion:
The past few years have been the most challenging. “Learning how to deliver a meaningful curriculum in a fully remote, and then hybrid form, was tough. Remote learning is difficult for all disciplines, but for performing groups, there were even more issues. We were lucky to have the new technology that CC provided.”
M arches O n THE CATHOLIC CENTRAL BAND
Greg was also the President of the Michigan School Band and Orchestra Association from 2019-2021 and had the responsibility to make sure band was safely happening in Michigan classrooms. “Figuring out my own plan for my CC classes, while working on behalf of the whole state, was the biggest challenge of my career.”
21THE BAND MARCHES ON • FALL 2022
These have been the trai ts of the Cat holic Cen tral Band since i ts beginning.
Band Council 1956 from left to right: Fr. Canning Harrison, CSB, Walter Green ‘56, Bill Watts ‘40, and Robert Battista ‘57
The Catholic Central Band has provided endless spirit and joy to every aspect of the CC experience. Mr. Normandin has nurtured that gift. “I started out in 1982 trying to emulate my predecessor, Bill Watts ’40, but soon realized that we were different people, and I had to do things that played to my strengths. He changed the trajectory of my life, and I am so grateful to him. The advice that I have for Logan is that it is his program now, and he has to run it in the way that suits him and his many strengths. He will do a great job!”
22 THE BAND MARCHES ON • FALL
Logan’s first teacher was his mother, Kathy, then on to Mr. Normandin and Doug Bianchi at Wayne State, followed by mentors, Janie Botkin and Pete Alvarado in Austin. He feels his biggest challenge will be to fill the shoes of those who came before – Mr. Watts and Mr. Normandin. 2022
Recognition
SATUR DA Y, 19 • 5 p . m . - 8 p
. m . Bicentennial Celebration
Logan has a Bachelor’s degree in Music Performance from Wayne State University and a Master’s from Ball State University. After a move to Texas where he taught private lessons, he became certified to teach and spent eight years as the assistant band director at Cedar Valley Middle School in Austin.
23BASILIAN FATHERS BICENTENNIAL CELEBRATION • FALL 2022 B a si l i an F athers
THE CATHOLIC CENTRAL BAND
N O VEM B E R
Cockta ils & Gre etings 5 p.m. Ceremony 6 p.m. Wine & Cheese Reception 6:30 p.m. - 8 p.m. Rober t Santello ’58 Gymnasium arches O n
M
Mr. Logan Bonathan ’07 has come home to Cat holic Centra l as i ts new Band Di rector.
Loga n ref l ec ted, “I am ecs ta t ic about the oppor tuni t y to lead the young men of the CC mus ic depar tment. I t stil l feels surrea l to be a par t of th is long l eg acy of music i anshi p.”
At the annual Catholic High School League Hall of Fame banquet in June, two Shamrocks were recognized for their many accomplishments and inducted as members of the Hall of Fame Class of 2022.
Emai l: in fo@mikecoxlaw.com
Additionally, he won two individual Big Ten Championships in 2021 and 2022 while helping lead the Wolverines to the overall Big Ten Championship in 2022. He was recognized as the Co-Big Ten Wrestler of the 2022 Championships and twice recognized as an Academic All-American. On the international stage, Myles won Gold Medals at both the 2022 European Championships and Mediterranean Games. He also represented San Marino in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics where he won the Bronze Medal in the 86kg freestyle wrestling. (734) 591-4006
Left right:
MITCH HANCOCK ’00 has been the head wrestling coach since he succeeded longtime coach Mike Rodriguez after the 2007 season. Since taking the reins of the historic program, Coach Hancock has vaulted the Shamrock wrestling program to even greater heights. In 15 seasons, he boasts a 328-54 overall record and has won 15 CHSL, 15 District, 14 Regional, three State Runner-up finishes, and eight Division 1 State Championships.
Furthermore, his wrestlers have won 58 individual state championships and earned an additional 76 All-State honors.
CC teams have consistently been ranked among the top 20 teams in the nation, including #5 in 2020. Coach Hancock was named Coach of the Year by the Michigan Wrestling Association in 2010 and by the National Federation of State High School Associations in 2012.
CatholiC league hall of fame 24 CATHOLIC LEAGUE HALL OF FAME • FALL 2022 Former Michigan Attorney General Mike Cox Catholic Central CLASS OF 1980 THE MIKE Cox LAW FIRMruc The Mike Cox Law Firm, PLLC 17 430 Laurel Park Dr. North, Suite 120E, Livonia, Michigan 48152 Phone: (734) 591-4002 Fax:
to right: Bob Ogar, Tom Gable, Al Moran ’57, Fr. Patrick Fulton, CSB, Bob Santello ’58, Ed Turek ’85, Brent Butwill ’18, Dave Lewis ’79, Myles Amine ’15, Mike Amine, Mitch Hancock ’00, Shane Butwill ’10, Sam Amine, Matt Steintrager ’04, Anthony Biondo, Malik Amine ’14, Bob Moreau ’75, Fr. Dennis Kauffman, CSB, Mike Carrier ’06, Russ Hancock, and Tim Burke ’86 Left to
Fr. Patrick Fulton, CSB, Aaron Babicz ’93, Myles Amine ’15, Mitch Hancock ’00, Dave Lewis ’79, and Ed Turek ’85
25FALL 2022
MYLES AMINE ’15 was a two-time Individual State Champion wrestler while earning All-State and All-American honors. During his high school career, he also helped lead the Shamrocks to three Team State Titles in 2012, 2013, and 2014. He capped his senior season by winning a NHSCA Senior National Championship. After CC, Myles attended the University of Michigan where he earned five All-American finishes at the NCAA Championships, including a runner-up finish in 2022.
Mea Culpa from Spring 2022 Issue JOSEPH M. SNYDER ‘68February 5, 2022. Brother of the late James ‘66, Jerald ‘73, Jonathan ‘74, Jeffrey ‘77, Jay ‘78, Jack ‘80, the late Judd ‘86, and Justin ‘88. Uncle of James ‘06 and Joseph ‘10. Brotherin-law of Michael Kelley ‘70 MARK BRACISZEWSKIF. ‘69April 30, 2022. Son of the late Frank ‘46. Father of Jordan ‘98PETER D. POIRIER ‘83June 10, 2022. Brother of Gregory ‘78 and Stephen EDWARD‘80D. GRACE ‘88May 16, 2022. Brother of David ’78, John ’79, Thomas, Jr. ’80, and Patrick ’81. Uncle of Thomas, III ‘21 DEREK KAUNELISM. ‘95April 29, 2022. JOHN T. RYBINSKI ‘04April 15, 2022. Brother of Timothy ‘01. EXTENDED FAMILY JOSEPHINE A. ADAMSApril 12, 2017. Wife of Robert ‘54 MARGARET BOLANDJuly 6, 2022. Mother of Denis ‘87 and Patrick BARBARA‘88 E. COLLINSJune 28, 2022. Wife of the late Timothy ‘46 Mother of Tim ‘77 James ‘81, and Dennis JENANN‘84R. CONNOLLYJune 21, 2022. Wife of the late John ‘58 PATRICIA J. DeBLOISApril 30, 2022. Grandmother of Michael Ramirez ‘21 and Joseph Ramirez ‘25 KELLY GRAHAMMay 2, 2022. Daughter of former CC teacher, Judith Chabala. Sister of Michael Chabala ‘96. Granddaughter of the late Vincent Beale ‘39 MYRNA R. HAHNMay 4, 2022. Wife of the late Lawrence ‘57. STEWART W. KIRCHNERNovember 4, 2021. Father of David ’88 and Michael ’89 LOUIS H. LaRICHEJune 9, 2022. Father-in-law of Mark Merucci ‘87 Grandfather of Joseph Merucci ‘17 and Dante Merucci ‘19 DR. SHARON P. LAWRENCHUKDecember 24, 2010. Mother of Steven Eckert ‘04 MATTHEW P. McALPINEApril 27, 2022. Brother of Andrew ‘78 REBECCA D. ORLOWSKIMay 18, 2022. Wife of the late Robert ‘52 Mother of Robert ‘83 James ‘85 and Thomas ‘87. Grandmother of James ‘14 and Robert JEFFREY‘17L. TELFORDApril 27, 2022. Father of CC staff member, Joe Parelly. RICHARD M. TROMETEROctober 19, 2021. Father of Richard ‘92 and William ‘94 JAMES A. VERPLOEGHJune 22, 2022. Father of Ross ‘08 and Shane ‘10 Mea Culpa from Spring 2022 Issue TIMOTHY WARDLEDecember 25, 2021. Husband of former CC teacher, Susan. Father of Timothy ‘04 and Daniel ‘09
The following members of the Catholic Central Family have passed from this life to the next. Please remember them in your Masses and other prayers. Our sincere condolences are extended to their loved ones. May their souls and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the Mercy of God, rest in peace.
27IN MEMORIAM • FALL 202226 IN MEMORIAM • FALL 2022
ALUMNI JOHN G. SPATH ‘43May 22, 2019. EDWARD J. JELONEK, SR. ‘44May 29, 2022. Father of Edward, Jr. ‘74 and Thomas ‘75. Father-in-law of Wayne Albanelli MICHAEL‘81E. NADER ‘45July 5, 2022. JOHN SENSOTERRAD. ‘47January 7, 2016. JOHN T. FLANAGAN ‘49July 10, 2022. Grandfather of Nicholas Cech ‘11 and Mitchell Cech ‘14 GEORGE J. FRANCIS ‘49March 19, 2022. ROBERT MONTFILSE. ‘49March 24, 2019. RALPH T. BRODY (NEE BRODOWSKI) ‘52November 11, 2020. GAYLE R. MOSER ‘53June 24, 2022. JAMES J. SCHMIDT ‘54October 21, 2019. ROBERT W. SCHY (NEE SCHYPINSKI) ‘54May 12, 2021. WILLIAM R. ST. LAWRENCE ‘54February 25, 2022. JAMES M. HAVEN ‘55December 9, 2020. VICTOR RUNSTADTLERG. ‘55February 23, 2022. ROBERT PIETRZAKJ. ‘56April 3, 2022. JAMES L. DAILY, III ‘61June 21, 2021. PAUL DAUGHERTYM. ‘61October 21, 2021. WILLIAM A. SANTE, II ‘61June 8, 2022. Brother of Patrick ‘64 and Michael ‘66 MICHAEL O’DONNELLK. ‘63December 23, 2021. Brother of the late James ‘54 and the late Thomas ‘55. Cousin of JP ‘59, Edward ‘63, and the late William ‘55 Brother-in-law of Carl Peters ‘51 JOHN F. SROKA ‘65October 19, 2018. Brother of Kenneth ‘59 and Gary ‘60 Uncle of Kenneth, Jr. ‘84 RICHARD J. SERINA ‘66October 26, 2020. JAMES ALBULOV,M. JR. ‘67May 31, 2022. Brother of the late Thomas ‘71
Note from the Editor: We have made a change to the format of the In Memoriam section of the Aluminator. As shown in this issue, we have decided to shorten the obituaries for alumni in an effort to increase the accuracy of the information provided. In addition to the date of death, we will only list relationships to other CC alumni as much as we are made aware.
i n M e M oria M
Rev. James H. Whelan, CSB Award
Rev. Daniel L. Dillon, CSB Award
Jackson Ewald ’22 was presented with one of Catholic Central’s most prestigious honors, the Rev. James H. Whelan Award, named in honor of Catholic Central’s fourth principal, Rev. James H. Whelan, CSB. The award is given annually to a senior who has excelled academically, is an outstanding athlete, and is looked upon by his peers as a Christian gentleman.
Our best wishes and congratulations to the newest members of the Alumni Association!
Current Events at Catholic Central Class of 2022 Commencement
29SCHOOL BELLS • FALL 202228 SCHOOL BELLS • FALL 2022 SCHOOL BELLS
Jonah Hurley ’22
Ian O’Donnell ’22
Jackson Ewald ’22
Neil Zhu ’22 with Fr. Patrick Fulton, CSB
Rev. Richard A. Ranalletti, CSB Award
Jonah Hurley ’22 Ian O’Donnell ’22
Jackson Ewald ’22
Jonah Hurley ’22 was named the academic Valedictorian and presented with one of Catholic Central’s most prestigious honors, the Rev. Daniel L. Dillon Award, named in honor of Catholic Central’s first principal, Rev. Daniel L. Dillon, CSB. The award is given annually to the senior with the highest cumulative grade point average over four years.
Academic Salutatorian Neil Zhu ’22 Neil Zhu ’22 was recognized as the academic salutatorian, having earned the second-highest cumulative grade point average among the Class of 2022.
Catholic Central’s 2022 Commencement Ceremony was held on Sunday, May 22, 2022. For the first time since 2019, the ceremony returned to Hill Auditorium on the campus of the University of Michigan. The Class of 2022 is composed of 260 graduates. David Mondrusov ’22 gave the Salutatory Address, and Conner Bell ’22 gave the Valedictory Address. The Dedication to Mary was given by Cole Nogawa ’22
Ian O’Donnell ’22 was selected as the recipient of the Rev. Richard A. Ranalletti Award, named in honor of Catholic Central’s eighteenth principal and second president, the late Rev. Richard A. Ranalletti, CSB. The award is given annually to the senior who has demonstrated Christian character and values during his years as a student at Catholic Central as nominated by his peers.
30 SCHOOL BELLS • FALL 2022 31SCHOOL BELLS • FALL 2022
After two seasons compromised by the COVID-19 global pandemic, CC and Toronto St. Michael’s renewed their annual rivalry in lacrosse on April 22, 2022. The Shamrocks defeated a young Blue Gaels team 14-2 in Fr. Elmer Stadium at CC. Prior to the game, both teams joined together for Mass celebrated by CC Principal, Fr. Patrick Fulton, CSB. After the game, the teams rejoined to share a meal.
Tanner is back in sunny California. Isabella is finishing her Freshman year at Notre Dame, studying pre-med. We just found out she has a torn ACL and MCL on her right knee from playing softball at Notre Dame.
Each year, at the annual Cipriano Classic 5K Fun Run and Walk, members of Student Activities volunteer to serve as marshals for the race course. This year was no different. Over 30 current CC students volunteered their Friday evening to help the event run smoothly. The Cipriano Classic began 11 years ago to raise funds for the Cipriano Children’s Trust. The Cipriano Family of Rose, Sal ’13, Tanner ’13, and Isabella are still in need of our help. For more info, go to http://www.ciprianoclassic.com/.
Rose is Sal’s major caregiver and finds some time to sprinkle in walking, swimming, and tennis. Our family is blessed, we still face heavy financial burdens for Sal’s medical treatment that is not covered by insurance, including his ongoing rehabilitation, day-to-day homecare providers (he needs a caregiver with him at all times due to the seizures), and physical training. We are grateful for your continued support and donations. We are grateful to be here with all of you, and we look forward to seeing all of your photos and social media posts with our smiling faces and stretched hamstrings at this year’s Cipriano Classic! Thanks again for all of your love and prayers!
Below is an update from the family in April 2022: “Sal is still having seizures that set back his ongoing treatment. He is at Wayne State University learning to use new technology to talk with an iPad, working out at Barwis for strength/balance, and works with a functional neurologist for balance and speech. He will be in the Miracle Baseball League in June and is planning on running the race with his family.
God bless and JKLP!”
CC and SMCS Renew Lacrosse Rivalry
Cipriano Classic
Nikolas Ilievski Ryan
Nogawa Ian
Andy bnadeau@provisionagency.com248-573-3029‘06BretDriscollbdriscoll@provisionagency.com248-731-5514‘07ShaneButwill‘10248-686-2926sbutwill@provisionagency.com
Malia Ryan M. McAllister Reid
Greg Normandin ’78Mr. Normandin joined CC in the fall of 1982 and has spent the past 40 years as the Music Department Chair and Band Director. Greg succeeded his mentor, Mr. Bill Watts ’40, and took the program to new heights. Over the years, his bands have earned countless honors and first division ratings from the Michigan School Band and Orchestra Association. His bands have also been recognized internationally as they have traveled to and performed in London, Madrid, and Rome.
Retiring Teachers
Jones Jonah
Laroo Nick
Michener David
Morphew Cole
NeilKevinBradleyJohnMatthewMatthewChristopherO’DonnellE.PaigeD.PrinceD.SommerK.TerhaarM.WassefA.WendtY.Zhu ClubGabrielPermanentRichard
Jansen Joel
The following members of the Class of 2022 earned Permanent Gabriel Richard Club status for their four years at CC. This distinction means that the students maintained Gabriel Richard Club status for each of the eight semesters they spent at GabrielCC. Richard status is achieved by holding a grade point average of 3.6 or better with no mark below a “B.” Cameron C. Andrysiak Brian L. Apple Kethan C. Babu Michael J. Barron Josh A. Bisdorf Antonio M. V. Bush Graham A. Castillo Maximus D. Chensse Andrew S. Ciarelli Jackson M. Collins Liam C. Cross Peter W. Denk, Jr. Gavin J. Filip Julian A. Freyre Landon R. Gardella Colin A. Harris Jonah T. Hurley J. R. R. M. C. G. G. C. S. L. R. H. M.
33FALL 202232 SCHOOL BELLS • FALL 2022 At the end of the 2021-2022 school year, CC said goodbye to a few of our most tenured and beloved teachers.
Karen FanningMrs. Fanning joined CC in the fall of 1999 and has spent the past 23 years teaching chemistry. She served for many years as the Junior Class Moderator. A few years ago, she introduced a new elective course in forensic science. Karen and her husband, Larry, are parents of Matthew ’04
Lurz Owen
Killebrew Andrew
Mark GagnonMr. Gagnon joined CC in the fall of 1984 and has spent the past 38 years teaching biology and other science courses. He has spent the past many years as Science Department Chair. Over the years, Mark has coached basketball, football, and lacrosse. Additionally, he founded the archery, backpacking, and shotgun clubs.
Mondrusov William
Licari Ryan S. Luke Patrick
Jaskolski Reece
Hager ahager@provisionagency.com248-731-5518‘05BrittonSteele‘05248-419-4073britton@provisionagency.comBradNadeau
2017, 2018, 2019, 2020 & 2021 Fastest Growing Private Companies in America 30200 Telegraph Rd., Suite 350 Bingham Farms, MI 48025 Auto Home Life Commercial Luca, ’18 • Alex, ’20 Danti Family Commerce Township, MI 248-960-7180 Danti Family
Volleyball Club Makes Big Strides in Second Season
Michael Terrill ’23 Earns St. Timothy Award
The team was also blessed with a generous donation at the start of the year for the installation of our own volleyball net system, allowing the team to host open gyms, practices, and even a student versus faculty volleyball game!
In April, Michael Terrill ’23 earned the Saint Timothy Award for his service at St. Kenneth Catholic Church in Plymouth. It was awarded by the Archdiocese of Detroit. Michael’s pastor at St. Kenneth is CC Shamrock, Fr. Tom Belczak ’71
This was the volleyball team’s second season as part of the Michigan Boys Volleyball Conference, playing in the East Division with Avondale, Durand, North Branch, Northville, Saline, and Swartz Creek. Coached by CC Spanish teacher, Ms. Bridgitte Laffrey, with the assistance of CC math teachers, Mrs. Allison Hodgins and Mrs. Kristen Raskey, the Shamrocks ended the season tied for second place in the East Division and played in the District final. Noah Atisha ’22 and Patrick Burke ’25 were awarded First Team All-Conference, and Garrett Levens ’22 was awarded Honorable Mention for their performances this season.
35SCHOOL BELLS • FALL 2022 Untitled-1 1 10/31/2019 8:59:40 PM
In a rematch of the 2017 HSNCT finals, the Shamrocks faced #3 Hunter (New York). CC, by virtue of having one loss in the playoffs to Hunter’s 0 losses, would need to win two games to claim the championship. The A Team won game one decidedly 470-275.
NAQT NATIONAL CHAMPIONS
The Detroit Catholic Central Academic Team traveled to Atlanta, Georgia at the end of May 2022, emerging victorious as the national champions at the High School National Championship Tournament (HSNCT) of the National Academic Quiz Tournaments (NAQT). The win secures the program’s fifth national championship win and first HSNCT Championship win since 20 01. The HSNCT is NAQT’s premier high school event, held at each school year’s end and featuring the top quiz bowl teams from across the nation, expanding in recent years to further reaches of the globe. Five Catholic Central academic teams competed throughout the weekend at the tournament held May 27-29 at the Atlanta Marriott Marquis and Hilton Atlanta. The Varsity A Team, consisting of Drew Laroo ’22, Liam Cross ’22, Michael Yousif ’22, and Will Carstens ’23, qualified for the doubleelimination playoff tournament by finishing the preliminary matches with an 8-2 record, including wins over #46 Adlai Stevenson High School (Illinois), #43 Ladue High School (Missouri), #18 Illinois Math and Science Academy, and #19 Beavercreek (Ohio). During the playoff rounds, the Shamrocks won an overtime game against #31 Cinco Ranch (Texas) and a game on the last question against #8 Carmel (Indiana). After suffering a setback against East Chapel Hill (North Carolina), the team rebounded with a last-question win against #1 Arcadia (California), with co-captain Liam Cross clinching all three games on the deciding question. That win secured a position in the semifinals and a rematch against East Chapel Hill, which the A Team won 455-230 to punch a ticket to the finals.
37ACADEMIC TEAM WINS 2022 NAQT NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP • FALL 202236 ACADEMIC TEAM WINS 2022 NAQT NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP • FALL 2022
Academic Team Wins 2022 NAQT National Championship
Follow the Shamrocks on Social Media: TWITTER: @DCCAcademicTeam INSTAGRAM: dccacademicteam
Michigan Quiz Bowl Champions 1988, 1990, 1991, 1996, 1997, 1999, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2021, 2022 *No championship tournament held in 2020 due to COVID-19
Catholic Central sends its congratulations to the students and coaches, English teacher Mr. Christopher Gismondi ’00, social studies teacher Mr. Ben Herman ’98, and Latin teacher Mr. Anthony Cornish.
The second game was an intense back and forth game. With one minute left on the clock, senior co-captain Drew Laroo answered correctly and put the game out of reach 380-295 to secure the program’s national championship win.
The Varsity A Team finished the regular season with an overall record of 156-16 and won 11 championships, including their 11th consecutive NAQT Michigan State Championship.
Left to right: Ben Herman ’98, Will Carstens ’23, Drew Laroo ’22, Michael Yousif ’22, Liam Cross ’22, Christopher Gismondi ’00, and Anthony Cornish STATE CHAMPIONS
NAQT National Quiz Bowl Champions 1999, 2001, 2022 PACE National Quiz Bowl Champions 2015, 2017 At the start of the 2021-2022 school year, CC installed a wall opposite the Learning Commons to recognize the state and national championship history of the CC Academic Team.
Left to right: Will Carstens ’23, Drew Laroo ’22, Liam Cross ’22, and Michael Yousif ’22
Rugby - State Semifinalist
• MiHSEF Spring 2022 - Rocket League 3rd Place
2022 Varsity Baseball Team 2022 Varsity Golf Team - State Champions 2022 Varsity Lacrosse Team - State Semifinalist 2022 Varsity Rugby Team - State Semifinalist 2022 Varsity Track & Field Team
• MiHSEF Fall 2021 - Valorant Runner Ups
38 SPORTS BREAK • FALL 2022 SPORTS BREAK
Keeping Up with Catholic Central Athletes
Esports The Esports Program, led by Coach Stephen Juncaj ’18, competed in its third year of competition during the 2021-22 school year. The team competed in five different titles this past year: Rocket League, Valorant, Fortnite, Super Smash Brothers Ultimate, and Overwatch. A total of 50+ students competed at some level in Esports this year. Esports has year-round competition through MiHSEF, the Michigan High School Esports Federation, which had a Fall/Spring season. This past year, the team collected four trophies, including one state championship.
The Varsity Lacrosse Team, led by Coach Dave Wilson ’88, finished the season with a 16-5 overall record. The Shamrocks were impressive while navigating a strong schedule, earning wins over Brighton, East Grand Rapids, St. Mary’s, Toronto St. Michael’s, and Cranbrook. CC finished second in the Catholic League and won the Regional Championship before narrowly falling to eventual state champion, Hartland, in the State Semifinals 8-7.
• MiHSEF Fall 2021 - Rocket League State Champions
The Varsity Track & Field Team, led by longtime Coach Tony Magni, finished the season with a 4-1 dual meet record and finished second in the Catholic League Central Division. The Shamrocks won the Michigan Catholic Invitational, 6th at the Oakland County Championship, 2nd at the Catholic League Championship behind eventual state champion, U of D Jesuit, and 3rd at the State Regional Championship. John Almeda ’24, Logan Fadool ’22, Tyler Kolchuk ’24, Finnian McLenaghan ’23, Colin Morrison ’23, and Joshua Tipton ’23 qualified for the State Finals. BaseBall All-CAtholiC Matt Ineich ’24 All leAgue Brady Blakita ’23 Braylon Laroo ’24 ACAdemiC All-CAtholiC Peter Denk ’22 Golf ACAdemiC All-StAte Neil Zhu ’22 All-StAte Liam Casey ’22 Peter Stassinopoulos ’22 Neil Zhu ’22 All-StAte honorAble mention Julian Menser ’24
All-CAtholiC Peter Stassinopoulos ’22 ACAdemiC All-CAtholiC Neil Zhu ’22 lacrosse All-AmeriCAn Jack Cyrek ’23 Cal Taulbee ’23 1St teAm All-StAte Jack Balmforth ’22 Jack Cyrek ’23 Brian Petroff ’22 Cal Taulbee ’23 2nd teAm All-StAte Will Jewell ’22 Billy Morphew ’22 3rd teAm All-StAte Owen Semp ’22 ACAdemiC All-StAte Ryan Jansen ’22 Jack Kirkwood ’22 Owen Semp ’22 Brady Wasen ’23 ACAdemiC All-CAtholiC Jack Kirkwood ’22 All-CAtholiC Jack Cyrek ’23 Brian Petroff ’22 Cal Taulbee ’23 All leAgue Jackson Ewald ’22 Billy Morphew ’22 Owen Semp ’22 Track & field All leAgue Ryan Illikman ’24 Finnian McLenaghan ’23 Joshua Tipton ’23
Golf - State Champions
Lacrosse - State Semifinalist
The Varsity Rugby Team, led by Coach Ian Ronayne ’08, had a successful season, finishing with an overall record of 7-3. The Shamrocks played some tough competition both in the State of Michigan and outside of the state with Toledo Whitmer and St. Ignatius in Ohio and Bishop Dwenger in Indiana. In the playoffs, CC defeated Portage Central before falling to Traverse City United in the state semifinals. Track & Field
• MiHSEF Spring 2022 - Super Smash Brothers Ultimate Runner-Ups
39SPORTS BREAK • FALL 2022 Baseball
The Varsity Golf Team, led by Coach Mike Anderson, had an incredible season capped by winning the program’s sixth State Championship and fourth under Coach Anderson.The Shamrocks won several tournaments throughout the season and finished in 3rd Place at the Oakland County Championship.CC won both the Catholic League and Regional Championships where Peter Stassinopoulos ’22 was the individual champion in the latter. CC advanced to the State Finals at Katke Golf Course at Ferris State University where they came back from a six-stroke deficit to defeat Ann Arbor Skyline and win the Division 1 State Championship. Neil Zhu ’22, Peter Stassinopoulos, Julian Menser ’24, and Liam Casey ’22 all finished in the Top 10 individually.
The Varsity Baseball Team, led by Coach Ryan Rogowski ’02, finished the season with a 16-19 record. The Shamrocks navigated through a very difficult Catholic League schedule, losing to Orchard Lake St. Mary’s in the league semifinal. In the playoffs, CC won the District Championship with victories over Novi and South Lyon East. The team advanced to the Regional Final where they fell to Hartland 5-4.
40 KEEP UP WITH CC ONLINE • FALL 2022
Ke e p Up Wi t h CC On l ine - St ay Co n n e c t ed
Aluminator Submissions
INSTAGRAM: @DCCShamrocks FACEBOOK: @DCCAlumniOffice@DCCShamrocks TWITTER: @DCCShamrocks@DCCAlumniOffice LINKEDIN: Want
Introducing the NEW Catholic Central website! Visit CatholicCentral.net Our new website has a fresh look and many user-friendly improvements. Head over today to read the latest news stories, view the online version of the Aluminator, see upcoming events, and more. Want to stay up-to-date on CC Athletics? Visit DCCShamrocks.net Check out the new hub for everything athletics at Catholic Central. Visit today to view rosters, statistics, schedules, and watch live. Send your comments, questions, or items for inclusion in a future Aluminator to aluminator@catholiccentral.net. We look forward to hearing from you! to join the Alumni group? Search “Detroit Catholic Central Alumni Association” and request to join. www.catholiccentral.net Calendar of Events https://www.catholiccentral.net/calendar Sports Schedules orhttps://dccshamrocks.netcalltheAthleticOffice at (248) 596-3830.
Association networking
Detroit Catholic Central High School The Aluminator 27225 Wixom Road Novi, MI 4 8 374 Scan to view past www.catholiccentral.net/aluminatorissues 78th BOYS’ BOWL WEEKEND SEPTEMBER 30 - OCTOBER 2, 2022 Homecomi ng • Athlet ic Hall of Fame • Reunion Weekend Sunday, OctOber 2 bOyS’ bOwl MaSS & breakfaSt & athletic hall Of faMe inductiOnS 9:00 a.m. 78th annual fOOtball GaMe vS. de la Salle 1:00 p.m. www.cathOliccentral.net/bOySbOwl
