Lakeside Lutheran Link #25 (2024 Issue 1)

Greetings from Pastor Mark Toepel Pastor Toepel—most often affectionately referred to as Señor in homage of all the Spanish he’s taught—attended Michigan Lutheran Seminary (’70), Northwestern College (’74), and Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary (’78). (also see p. 4)

The

82/83 school year was about a month away as I walked into Lakeside for the first time. I had spent the last four years as the

pastor of two small churches in the Twin Cities area, but much of my time was spent at St. Croix Lutheran High School helping out in various roles.

When I received the call to teach senior and sophomore religion classes and assist with coaching at Lakeside Lutheran, I felt strongly that God was leading me in this direction.

It’s no secret that I love my job. There are several reasons why that is true. It starts with the faculty and staff. Although the names have changed over the years, two things have remained constant: we all share the same faith. To work side by side with fellow believers who are there to pick you up when you fall and encourage you when you need it, is a tremendous blessing.

The second constant is that we share a common goal. We are not here only to prepare our students to be successful in this lifetime, but to prepare them for something more important. We are here to share our faith and impress on our students that their greatest goal is to make it to heaven.

The other reason I love my job is the student body. Interacting with students in the classroom, through sports, student council advisor or just chatting in the hall between classes, has always brought a smile to my face.

Whether it was listening to their concerns or talking about their goals or watching them live their faith, Lakeside has always been special. It provided Christian education for my two sons and provides the same for all who come through these doors.

MISSION Motivated by the love of Jesus, Lakeside Lutheran High School partners with families to educate, encourage, and equip students for life and for eternity.

about our federation The Lakeside Lutheran Federation includes 33 congregations in a diverse geographic region in southcentral Wisconsin that extends north to south from Beaver Dam to Janesville and east to west from Okauchee to Middleton.

The LL Link is a publication of Lakeside Lutheran High School in Lake Mills, Wis., published twice annually and distributed free of charge to graduates, supporters, students, families and friends.

Readers are encouraged to pass on copies to benefit others. Please direct all correspondence, letters, news corrections, comments and requests to be added to our home mailing list to: Lakeside Lutheran High School 231 Woodland Beach Rd. Lake Mills, WI 53551 info@llhs.org • 920.648.2321 Principal: Pastor Don Schultz Executive Director: Kirk DeNoyer Asst Principal: John Dorn Development Director: Bruce Davis Admissions Director: Steve Lauber Activities Director: Todd Jahns Regents Chair: Glenn Lassanske

Our students know that the battle is done, the victory has been

Photo credits:

won by Christ, and heaven awaits

Cover: Design 2 Construct p. 5: LifeTouch Photography bottom of p. 10 & top of p. 12 TJKWolf Productions

for those who keep the faith.

Whether I am in this building or not, Lakeside will always have a special place in my heart. page 2 | Lakeside Lutheran Link | 2024 Issue 1 | llhs.org

Remainder contributed or

by LLHS publications staff

The Lakeside Lutheran Link 2024 Issue 1

The ground is broken (cover) April 2, 2024, was the last day that the main entry doors we’ve

Table of Contents

enjoyed for decades were used to bring students into their school day. It’s likely this entry won’t re-open until December,

Retirees reflect Groundbreaking Alum Links Another trip to state Alum walks AT Alum coach at next level Remembering Loved Ones Reunion News

but when it does, visitors will know they’re in the right place for the main office. We look forward to some new and exciting features, all the while giving glory to God for the continued blessings bestowed on your Lakeside Lutheran High School.

Read more about the groundbreaking and project on p. 6. (and if you know answers to any of the question marks on p. 7, please send a message to info@llhs.org!)

4 6 8 10 11 12 14 15

Before

Our 13th GRAND EVENT gave all glory to God for year after year of blessings on this night of fellowship and fun that raised $161K for the ministry. It’s a lovely mix of alum, students, staff, parents, and community supporters, all in support of Christian education at your LLHS. More pics at llhs.smugmug.com/LLFamily

Save the date!

Grand Event 14 March 29, 2025 LL Link | 2024 Issue 1 | llhs.org | page 3

Faculty Feature: More servant leaders pass the baton We say goodbye to almost 100 years of Lakeside ministry. None of them would say it, but what a legacy they leave!

Señor served as Student Council advisor, helping oversee Homecoming Week activities. In 2023 he made a cameo appearance in the sophomore class dance.

Pastor Mark Toepel In his 42 years as a Warrior, Mark coached football, basketball, and track and now advises Student Council and organizes Intramurals.

He and Pam, married in 1977, have two Forever Warrior sons. Jason (’97) and Rebecca have two children and live in Modesto, Calif. Jamison (’01) lives in Lake Mills.

1982

“A lot has changed ... I’ve taught a variety of classes from Health to Algebra. For a decade I have been teaching Spanish and Latin classes,” he says, but when asked about memories, “I don’t know that I could narrow down to a favorite.”

Others can for you, Señor! On a recent social media post, commenters shared favorite memories of him. “I don’t know how I would have gotten through my senior year without him after my dad died. I’ll never forget how he and so many other teachers were there for me that year,” said Melissa Stream (‘95).

Melissa (Ninmann ‘86) Wheeler shares, “It is impossible to know the number of lives he has impacted with his will to find the best in every student ... his influence is felt all over through thousands of students who are better for knowing him and learning from him (ok, a bit dramatic, but still).

I still remember tp-ing your house only to see you standing in the window watching us. Oh the good memories.”

And we can’t ignore the legend ...

“He may have nicely set me upside down in a trash can outside his classroom once,” shares Heather Stelzer. “Second best memory was him marrying my husband and me.

He is one incredible human being ... Grateful my girls have the chance to be at Lakeside while he is still walking the halls.”

In retirement he plans to spend more time playing tennis and fishing.

Paul Bauer For 30 years, Paul has been a consistent presence on campus.

He taught physical and earth science, biology as well as Algebra 1, 2, and geometry. He’s coached softball, girls and boys basketball, track and football, as well as Athletic Director

1994

Paul served as head football coach for 23 years (152-84) and was named 2018 Conference Coach of the Year. “Paul’s a truly remarkable man who is humble and will give credit to others. He’s deserving of recognition and leaves a great legacy at Lakeside. We are truly appreciative of all he’s done,” says AD Todd Jahns. page 4 | Lakeside Lutheran Link | 2024 Issue 1 | llhs.org

for 16 years. “It was a real privilege to be head football coach for 23 years.

There were raucous Mud Room celebrations after home wins that were always fun. A 20-19 overtime win v. Lodi in 2007 sticks out when Zach Moyle intercepted a 2-point conversion attempt in the endzone to preserve the win,” he says.

He and wife Becky’s children are all alum. Matthew (‘99) & Sarah have two children and live in Watertown, S. Dak., where he’s A.D. at Great Plains Lutheran High School.

Jonathan (‘00) & Lindsay have three children and live in Mt. Horeb, Wis., where he is the pastor at Good News Lutheran. Sarah (‘04) & Charlie (‘04) Stubblefield have three children and live in Vail, Colo., where they own and operate Mountain Recovery towing service.

“He was an amazing model for ministry. Growing up with two top notch Lutheran school teachers helped me learn how it’s done well, and by well I mean with excellence in every way, says son Matt. “By God’s plan, my ministry has closely paralleled his, and I’ve been blessed to have him as a mentor showing me how it’s done every step of the way—not only the skills of teaching, coaching and leading, but strong work ethic. I’ve never known a harder worker, and it was always in humble service to the Lord.”

When it comes to what he’s going to do in retirement, Paul says, “God’s got it. I’d like to hunt and fish a bit more. I enjoy working around the yard and house. Rebecca and I would like to do some traveling and see some places in the country we haven’t been to yet. But who knows how it will play out. I’m just so thankful for all the experiences God has allowed me to have, and to have reached this point in life.”

Jeff Meske After 11 years at Lakeside (and another 15 previously at New London HS), Jeff Meske is retiring from teaching and putting his skills to work as a tradesman in Green Bay. “I am partnering with my brother-in-law, Tad Schubring, in Dad’s Handyman Service, doing a variety of residential and light commercial jobs,” he shares.

2013

As a Warrior, Jeff taught all the Technology & Agriscience classes: Agriculture Survey, CAD 1 & 2, Construction Trades, Metals, Small Engines, Woods, Advanced Career Tech, plus Earth and Environmental Sciences. He also served as a May Banquet (prom) coordinator for two years, coached wrestling for eight, and advised both Youth Apprenticeships and FFA. Jacob Nehls (‘15) is thankful for Meske’s impact. “He has made many great changes in all of the tech ed classes!

It has been great seeing the large interest in the trades among students.”

Jeff and Jayne’s three daughters are Forever Warriors. Mindy (‘17) and Dan Pitzner live in the Minneapolis area and are expecting their first child in Sept. Emily (‘19) graduated from Moody Bible Institute and serves at Wears Valley Ranch, Tenn., teaching and mentoring in group homes. Haylee (‘21) works in vehicle maintenance at the Air Force Base in Madison.

Jeff leaves a lasting impression on Lakeside, having helped grow the apprenticeship program. Last year, seven students worked over 6,500 hours. In addition, he began the FFA program at Lakeside, the first parochial high school in the state to do so. “Jeff was always willing to go over and above to provide our students with every opportunity possible,” says Guidance

Director Andy Rosenau.

“Among FFA, Youth Apprenticeship and the multitude of Career and Technical training courses he’s taught, he’s made a huge impact on a lot of young lives,” As for memories he’s taking with him, Jeff is thankful for the chance to travel to Alaska as a chaperone with an OpGo mission team to help run a STEM camp.

And every semester in Jeff was integral in dozens of successful elementary visits. Whether it was for bee habitat the classroom, he’s enjoyed building or petting zoos, the Tech Ed room has “seeing students design a always been a favorite under his watch. project and helping guide them through the process so they could be proud to take it home.”

Getting ready to welcome new teachers Expect more thorough introductions to faculty who have accepted our calls to fill various teaching needs next fall, but if you see them in the meantime, give them a hearty Warrior welcome!

Amanda Bosnak Science & FFA Amanda will join Warrior Nation part-time next fall to teach Environmental Science, Earth Science, and serve as our FFA advisor. Currently she teaches agriculture, ag-science, and foodscience courses at Waterloo High School, along with advising their FFA.

Caleb Kasper: Industrial Arts Currently an Industrial Arts teacher and department head at Oconomowoc High School, Caleb will join our Tech Ed department to teach several hands-on courses, including Woods, Welding and others.

Christin Leckwee Anatomy & Theatre In addition to her part-time staff ministry call at St. Luke, Watertown, Christin has accepted a part-time call from Lakeside to teach Anatomy next fall and be involved as a faculty advisor to the spring musical.

Emily Muir: Biology Emily will move from Washington state and her current position as science teacher at Evergreen Lutheran HS to join our science department. She’ll also be a soccer and strength coach.

Bill Tomlin: English 10 Currently principal at St. John in Lannon, Wis., Bill is readying to join our English department, specifically to lead sophomores in their required Language Arts course.

LL Link | 2024 Issue 1 | llhs.org | page 5

Building improvement Phase 2: Cafeteria/Entryway Update

The Lord continues to bless our Free to Act debt-free efforts.

As an April 2024 news release shared about the current campus improvement project, “Lakeside Lutheran High School broke ground on a building expansion and renovation on April 8. The project includes a more prominent main entrance and front lawn monument, a cafeteria and front office renovation and expansion, as well as renovated lobby restrooms. Existing interior renovations are expected to be complete in time for the start of the upcoming school year; the entire project, including the expanded cafeteria space and a renovated main entry, has a December 2024 planned completion date.

“The school held a small ceremonial groundbreaking on Wednesday, April 10, when administration, student and governing board representatives, as well as reps from general contractor Design 2 Construct (D2C), and major contributor Twice is Nice Resale Store, gathered to ask for God’s blessing on the undertaking.

At groundbreaking, Principal Don Schultz reminded those gathered of the psalm of Solomon (127), ‘Unless the Lord builds the house, the

builders labor in vain.’

| For more info, go to llhs.org/apps/pages/freetoact or scan QR

‘This project involves an expansion of our cafeteria to resolve an issue of overcrowding,’ explains Executive Director Kirk DeNoyer. ‘It will almost double its size, pushing cafeteria space south out to the current sidewalk.

Along with that, we’re extending the kitchen to have a place for parent and community groups to host meals at events.’ DeNoyer also refers to a common misperception, that the more eastern front doors are often thought to be the main entrance. ‘A new prominent front entryway means when visitors come to campus, they know exactly where to go. We want to give them a great first impression,’ he says.

“This project is the second phase of a renovation and upgrade plan called “Free to Act.” This campaign began in 2021 after the last mortgage was satisfied and the school became debt-free. Planners began reviewing the condition of the building and grounds with a goal to achieve as many as possible without the need for a new mortgage.

“After faculty and staff input and governing board discussion, school administration developed a multi-

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year, multi-phase plan. ‘Free to Act Phase 1’ began in 2021 and included a faculty workroom update, locker room renovation, media center/study hall remodel, improved visitor seating for the outdoor competition field, a West Gym renovation, and videography studio remodel. Together these cost just over $1.2 million and were successfully completed by 2023 without a loan. The current project, ‘Free to Act Phase 2,’ with planning begun in 2023, carries a $3.5M cost, with 80% secured through private donations prior to groundbreaking.”

Principal Schultz’s reminder of Psalm 127 echoes our past groundbreakings in that we commit all our planning and effort to God’s glory, and ask for his guidance in both decision-making and actions.

Thank you for your continued support through prayers and gifts to see Phase 2 through. Should you wish to keep track of construction and related efforts, a “construction news” page can be found at llhs.org/apps/pages/ConstructionNews

2024 marks 4th groundbreaking < 1961 groundbreaking, L-R: Carl Hefke ‘62, Ferdinand Kutz Jr, Ed Rindfleisch, George Lehman, Rev. Lloyd Huebner, Rev. Roy Brassow, Rev. Robert Hoenecke, Alfred Piette (contractor),

From Pastor Lloyd Huebner’s 2008 50th anniversary notes: “A beautiful 33-acre property near the shores of Rock Lake in Lake Mills was purchased from Attorney Robert Ferry for $33,000 … A groundbreaking ceremony took place ... in November 1961. With the purchase of this tract of land near Rock Lake, the General Board of the school voted to change the name to “Lakeside Lutheran High School” … When the day of dedication ... arrived, what a day! What a celebration! On November 3, 1963, under the theme “Preserving the Reformation Heritage,” over 4,000 WELS Lutherans gathered at Lakeside to dedicate the newly constructed high school building to the glory of God.” [$700,000, 66,000 sq ft] < 1984 groundbreaking, L-R: ?, Chris Korth ‘85, Phil Strohm, Pastor Russell Kobs, Harold Lehman, M. Jaeger, ?, Fred Zastrow, John Wineke, ?, Paul Dettman, Doug McNamee.

From Principal Phil Strohm’s 50th anniversary notes: “As enrollment increased and as classroom space became more limited, it was clear that building expansion was necessary. In April 1984, the General board approved a major building addition to the school to be located directly north of the existing music and home economics classrooms. It called for 11 classrooms plus workrooms and lavatories totaling 21,000 sq. ft. All 23 congregations of the Federation pledged support for the addition. It was completed at a cost of $955,000, including capital improvements and furnishings.

Occupancy took place in January and the Dedication Service followed on Sunday, February 17, 1985. Both students and faculty said their fond farewells to the portable classrooms located behind the school. < 2002 groundbreaking, L-R: Omar Jaeger, John Wineke, Phil Strohm, Mark Blahnik, Randy Bremhorst, Tom Maenpaa, Tim Matthies, Jason Fry, Alex Zastrow.

From Principal Tim Matthies’ anniversary notes: “... the [school year’s] opening worship service ... included groundbreaking for the [$7.2 million, 50,000 sq ft] expansion and renovation, Omar Jaeger (‘61 building committee), John Wineke (‘84 committee), Philip Strohm (capital appeal committee chair), Tom Maenpaa (Regents chairman), Mark Blahnik (‘02 building chair), Jason Fry (02/03 student body president), Alex Zastrow (future Warrior class of ‘14), and Randy Bremhorst (Hoffman Corp.) all turned over a symbolic shovel of dirt.” < April 10, 2024 ceremonial groundbreaking, L-R: Todd Grundman, LL Director of Operations; Rachel (Huebner ‘77) Steindorf, President of Good Stewards, Inc. (governing board of Twice is Nice Resale); Pastor Don Schultz, LL Principal; Kooper Mlsna, ‘23/24 Student Body President; Terry Koth, Design 2 Construct VP; Glenn Lassanske ‘83, LL Regents Chair; Mark Hertzfeldt, D2C Architect; Bruce Davis, LL Development Director; and Kirk DeNoyer, LL Executive Director.

LL Link | 2024 Issue 1 | llhs.org | page 7

October. Ashley Koltz (‘17) and Samantha Kohls (‘18) were bridesmaids. Ashley says “We had the best day of our lives!”

Aree Huwe (‘22) married Quint Dahmen at St. Andrew’s, Middleton on Feb. 16. They are temporarily residing in Montello, Wis. with plans to move to Alaska. : 📷 Angelic Angles Photography

Hailey Brandt (‘21) married Cade Burrow on July 1, 2023 at St. Paul Lutheran in Tomah, Wis. They now live in Beloit while Hailey finishes school.

Kristin Karas (‘20) is engaged to Eric Helmer and planning a July ‘24 wedding. Eric is in his second year at Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary. This fall Kristin will be student teaching and Eric will be vicaring.

Hannah Mayer (‘18) and Michael Fromm met at MLC and were engaged Feb. 17 and plan on a July 2025 wedding. Hannah teaches at California Lutheran HS and Michael teaches at Divine Savior Academy-Sienna.

Brett Burger (‘17) married Ben Schmidt on June 16, 2023. She is a Tutor in the dorms at Luther Prep and Ben is working full time at Ebert’s Greenhouse Village.

Rebecca Doering (‘16) and Steven Kvam are engaged and are planning a wedding for early August in Minnesota Ashley Kohls (‘16) and Austen Eppen were engaged July 2020 and married at the Bowery Barn in Rubicon this past

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Ashley (Sonntag ‘12) and Brandon Phillips welcomed a 3rd boy to the family!

Jordan Robert Phillips was born on January 31.

Kyle Fax (‘08) and wife Laura welcomed a 2nd daughter, Amelia Rio Fax, on November 2, 2023. She joins sister Olivia in their growing family in Doral, Fla. Paul Trapp (‘00) entered eternal glory January 31 after several years of health difficulties.

His funeral was at Parkland Lutheran in Tacoma, Wash. on Feb. 10.

Andrew Rupnow (‘09) was named 2023 Correctional Officer of the Year, having served the Brown County Jail for the past 9 years. He leads by example.

Ben Sachse (‘06) passed away at UW Hospital surrounded by his family.

His funeral was at St. Paul’s in Fort on Feb. 20.

Andrew (‘07) and Heather (Burgus ‘05) Schoenfeld thank God as they welcomed a 3rd boy, Max, December 8. Max joins brothers Jackson (4), Camden (2 1/2).

Beth (Griffin ‘90) and Ryan Riesinger are in their 8th year living in Grand Forks, N. Dak. She writes, “Ryan is the director of the airport and I started a part-time job with Grand Forks public schools. Our kids, Brandon (19) is a sophomore studying Business Management at UND and Anna (17) is a junior at Red River High School.

Blessings to all in the LLHS family!”

Randy Ebert (‘88) retired from the Village of Twin Lakes Police Dept. on Jan. 4 after 26 years of service. He served as a field training officer, evidence technician, vehicle contacts instructor, and sergeant. Randy plans to spend more time traveling, spending time with family, and competing in SCA steak cookoff events.

Jeff Sather (‘84) passed away unexpectedly on March 24. Jeff was a Milwaukee Police Officer for 20 years. Funeral services were held at St. Matthew, Janesville April 2.

Pamela (Wittchow ‘78) Otterstatter entered her eternal home March 6. Funeral services were held at Crown of Life Lutheran in West St. Paul, Minn. April 8.

Karen (Melcher ‘72) and Larry Hafenstein celebrated 50 years of marriage on Dec. 8.

UPDATE US! Alum, we want to hear about your personal/ family/work announcements! Your fellow Forever Warriors want to celebrate, to pray, to encourage you as you go through life events.

Update us online at llhs.org/apps/form/alumupdate or email updateus@llhs.org or ... send something to us old-school style!

231 Woodland Beach Rd. Lake Mills 53551

The Class of ‘73 celebrated their 50th reunion last October.

Judy (Wolfram ‘68) Davis passed away Feb. 25 after a 5-year battle with pancreatic cancer. A private family service was held.

Class members began the celebration at the LLHS Homecoming Alumni dinner/game on Friday night.

This was followed by a tour of the school and a dinner gathering at the Milford Hills Hunting Club on Saturday. Twenty-three classmates and spouses enjoyed a wonderful evening of reminiscing, catching up on the last 50 years and marveling how we haven’t changed a bit. Some came as far as Texas, Arizona, and New York. All agreed that we were truly blessed with an excellent academic education at LLHS, but most importantly, the firm spiritual foundation that still binds us 50 years later.

Many thanks to the class of ‘73 reunion committee of Emily (Orvick) Goetzke, Cindi (Zahn) Holman, Chris (Bublitz) Sell and Lois (Luedtke) Schultz for all of their planning efforts.

Kathy (Luetzow ‘64) and Wally Bruenger (‘63) celebrated 55 years of marriage this past December.

Photo, back row L-R: Mark Haferman, Bob Welch, Gail (Jaeger) Buchta, Caroline (Nyborg) Rehborg, Debbie (Baneck) Janz, Mary (Wollenburg) Mays, Karen Frederick, Cindy (Zahn) Holman, Kathy (Turner) Miller, Mark Jaeckel, Brett Stinebrink, Dan Adickes, Dave Seelman.

Front, L-R: Annita (Zickert) Reimer, Bonnie (Dunsmoor) Jaeger, Lois (Luedtke) Schultz, Ellen (Welke) Disrude, Kay (Drews) Whiten, Kathy (Wittchow) Lamp, Rickey Dott, Karen (Reichert) Schmeling, Chris (Bublitz) Sell, Emily (Orvick) Goetzke

.

LL Link | 2024 Issue 1 | llhs.org | page 9

WIAA Division 3 State Runner Up The Warriors headed back to state for the second year in a row. This team returned two players and only 14 percent of the team’s scoring from last season. With a 27-3 record, they won the most games in program history.

The path to state began with a 65-47 win over Beloit Turner for the regional championship. In the sectional semis, your Warriors defeated Lake Mills 6957. The boys then defeated Platteville 75-71 to become sectional champs.

With 1.5 seconds left at the semifinal game at the Kohl Center, junior Kaycee Guzman made a gamewinning lay up to give the Warriors a 57-55 win over an undefeated Kiel team. This was our first victory in three appearances at the Kohl Center.

The team brought home the silver ball after losing 54-65 loss to St. Thomas More. “There’s a sheer amount of pride and appreciation for what our team did and for the way they played today,” said coach Todd Jahns said. “You can be disappointed in the outcome, but you can’t be disappointed in your kids’ effort because they did everything you asked. Our guys played as our Warriors team plays all the time, and I think that’s what people will remember.”

Warriors chosen for Sportsmanship Award As a bonus, Lakeside Lutheran received the Sportsmanship Award for the 2024 Boys State Tournament.

See the roster for the 2024 state tournament team at llhs.org/apps/pages/bbb

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This award from the WIAA and Rural Mutual Insurance is a prestigious honor that recognizes the attitudes and actions of the entire Lakeside community among the 20 schools in all five state tournament divisions.

“This is a significant award and recognition for our school statewide as it encompasses the entire Warrior Nation, including team, coaches, administration, office staff, students, band, dance team, parents, supporting fans, supervisors, chaperones, and all involved,” says A.D. and Head Coach Todd Jahns. “In a tangible and noticeable manner, the Lord used a basketball stage for all of us in a small way to serve Him, to share our ministry, and to positively impact people.”

Lakeside Link: ‘14 grad walks away from work for six months Neil Young had never backpacked until he went to Mohican State Forest in Ohio with some college friends during COVID. “I was hooked,“ he says. “Something about the feeling of knowing whatever you had and needed was all on your back appealed to me. I did a lot of research about thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail (AT), but never thought I would find the time.”

Years later, he was living in New York City with his wife, Kelsey, and was working a job that left him miserable with little free time. “She and I were kicking around ideas of what I wanted to do next work-wise, when she brought up quitting to hike the AT.” Within a few days, he put in his two weeks at work—and three weeks later he was hiking.

“Looking back, being rushed was for the best,” he says. “A thru-hike is unpredictable, so it’s not really possible to plan it day by day or even week by week. I just accepted that however it was going to happen is how it was going to be.”

He scrambled to get lightweight gear and assembled it the night before. His base weight—everything that wasn’t food or water—was a reasonable 15 lbs. The next day he flew to Atlanta, and he started the Approach Trail on April 10, 2023.

“There were certainly a lot of challenges—the biggest missing my wife. I’m comfortable alone, but going weeks without seeing her was the hardest part,” he admitted.

The weather also was an issue. “The closest I came to quitting was in

southern Virginia. It was the 10th day of rain. I called Kelsey, basically in tears. The hike was well past being a vacation, and was turning into a grind. But, she didn’t let me quit.”

Each morning he put on the same shirt, shorts, socks and shoes, knowing they’d still be wet from rain or sweat from the humid midAtlantic summer. “You eventually embrace the smell, become proud of it in some twisted way,” he said.

Next on the challenge list were mosquitoes. “At any given time I probably had 30+ bites on each leg.

Somewhere in NY, I looked down and saw 4-5 mosquitos at once. After muttering words that would certainly get me a detention slip at Lakeside, I hitchhiked to the nearest town and bought pants.” He ate the same food everyday—Knorr’s meals and canned chicken. Ultimately, hiking everyday was just hard and something was always hurting. “End of each day, I reminded myself how lucky I was to be able to have the opportunity to hike every day and enjoy God’s beautiful creation,” he says.

Neil summited Mt. Katahdin on October 9, 2023—and then returned to living almost the same life. He and Kelsey are still in New York

where he now works as an equity analyst at an investment bank that covers the semiconductor industry.

“From lifestyle aspect, nothing really changed pre- versus posthike,” he says. “However, in terms of personality, I went from being a glass half-empty, to a glass half-full type person. There were some miserable days while hiking, and I was forced to take a positive viewpoint. Otherwise, I’d want to give up.”

His time at Lakeside helped prepare him for the trip, spiritually. “The biggest thing I took away from high school was the importance of staying connected with Jesus. The traditional way of attending church was a challenge while hiking, so I would listen to podcasts and read weekly devotions. There was not a single day that went by that I didn’t pray to God, either to give thanks for the amazing views or for strength to just keep going.”

We usually ask our alum interviewees about memories from their time at LL. Neil shared, “I will admit I certainly wasn’t the easiest student to teach. Even so, there were plenty of teachers that were patient with me and did their best to try to make sure I would get a great education. PC was always there as a figure I could go to talk to about whatever I was dealing with. I always liked history, so I enjoyed Mr. Doering as a teacher, and I think I have to give the financial literacy class he taught the credit for sparking my interest in finance and the stock market. I also enjoyed being in Mr. Johnson’s homeroom. Lastly, I will never forget Mr. Kuehl’s dry sense of humor that I got to enjoy throughout JV basketball and speech class.”

LL Link | 2024 Issue 1 | llhs.org | page 11

Doering named as new head coach Matthew Doering, who has been the varsity defensive coordinator for the past 20 years, has been selected to serve as the next Warrior head varsity football coach, replacing longtime head coach Paul Bauer who retires after 23 years at the helm (see p. 4). “The same core values that Lakeside has are a key part of Warrior football,” Doering says. “We have the opportunity to challenge our student-athletes to use their talents and gifts to come together as a team and channel all of their efforts towards success every time we step on the practice or game field.” Matt and Jill have lived in Lake Mills since 2002. Their three children are Lakeside grads: Cassie (‘14) (& Brandon ‘13) Schilling; Becca (‘16); and Kyle (‘20).

With this Lakeside coaching change, we got to thinking about some other coaches: Forever Warriors who are coaching at the collegiate level. Here are a handful. Let us know if you know of more!

Randall Cox (‘84) graduated from Wisconsin Lutheran College, Milwaukee.

When his wife, Rebecca, received a call to Martin Luther College, he was later hired as the Head Baseball Coach and Assistant Athletic Director. He is also supervising the new Betty Kohn Field House.

He loves coaching baseball because it’s “the sport I love, plus I get to work with and develop young men in the sport.”

As for his days at Lakeside, “I have great respect and admiration for Dale Walz, Mark Ricke, and Mark Toepel,” he says.

Lydia Ulrich (‘16) is an Assistant Track and Field Coach of jumps and sprints at Berry College in Rome, Georgia.

After attending UW-Stevens Point and competing on the track team, she was hired to be a graduate assistant at Southwest Minnesota State University, Marshall, Minn.

Two years later, she was hired at Berry. “I love the mentorship aspect that comes Spring break 2023 saw Warrior baseball and softball teams visiting Martin Luther College, practicing in the new Betty Kohn fieldhouse, touring and worshiping on campus, and enjoying team time before heading home. It was also a chance to catch up with Forever Warriors who serve at MLC, Randy Cox (left) and Becca Doering (right). In the middle are LL baseball coach Jake Ziel and LL softball coach Matt Doering (Becca’s dad). page 12 | Lakeside Lutheran Link | 2024 Issue 1 | llhs.org

along with coaching and building the relationships with my athletes,” she says. “It’s always fun to watch your athletes’ faces light up when they hit a big PR or accomplish a goal they’ve set out to do!”

She was influenced by Mr. Jim Bauer. “He coached with so much passion and always pushed us to be the best we could be in our events. Even though we won conference titles and state titles for the relay team, it was always more than just winning. It was about glorifying God with talents he blessed us with.

Throughout my four years he helped us develop a gogo-go mentality of continually working hard towards our goals, which has carried over into my coaching.”

Lakeside Links: alum who stayed on the court, field and track Rebecca Doering (‘16) played softball for four years at Martin Luther College. After teaching for two years at Great Plains Lutheran High School in Watertown, South Dakota, she was called to be a professor of physical education and head softball coach at MLC. “Stepping into my position at a young age was daunting until I got on campus and was reminded of MLC’s family environment and Christian support!” She now loves supporting athletes. “Getting to be a part of my athlete’s journey in growing into a strong Christian young woman is my favorite part and the greatest honor of my work. Teaching them about a sport that I love and our Savior and his love is incredibly humbling every day. It is also just so much fun.” You might not be surprised which Lakeside coach had the greatest influence on her. “My dad had the biggest impact on me during my time at Lakeside, and I don’t say that just because he is my dad! He is a fantastic example of a strong Christian who is ministry-minded, passionate about what he does, cares deeply about his athletes, and strives to improve daily. He was always there to push me in my faith, in the classroom, and athletics during my time at Lakeside, and he continues to do so.”

Above, Doering dresses in red at Martin Luther College, where she is head softball coach.

At left, she took coaching in Warrior blue from dad Matt.

Kaitlyn Gehler (‘18) played volleyball at Memphis, Wyoming, and Marshall. She had worked at camps at Marshall for two summers and wanted to coach in college, so when they were looking to hire a third assistant, “I applied because I knew and trusted the staff and the athletic department.” She was promoted after one season and now primarily takes care of recruiting. She credits coaches Jenny Krauklis and Ben Hoppenrath because “they pushed me out of my comfort zone and instilled confidence in me. They gave me the freedom to lead and be my authentic self.” This is a quality she uses every day as I coach. “I know I’m making a difference in the lives of the girls I coach by challenging them, encouraging them, and teaching them. I get to fully immerse myself into something I’ve been passionate about my whole life by constantly learning and growing in the game.”

LL Link | 2024 Issue 1 | llhs.org | page 13

We are grateful for the heartfelt gifts offered to the ministry of Lakeside Lutheran High School by one or more donors from November 2023 through April 2024 in loving memory or honor of loved ones.

I remember the days of long ago; I meditate on all your works and consider what your hands have done. Psalm 143:5 in Memory of Claudette Kreklow Bryan Rasmussen Todd Alexander Gayle Berg Elaine Beyer Jean Birkholz Jerry Bloomquist Lucy Bloomquist Donald Bohn Kevin Borchardt Brian Braunschweig Joel Braunschweig Carl Breitenbach Ronald Brien Mel Brunk Jim Charais Ruthie Christian Judy Davis Nancy Dippong Marcos Dominguez Elroy Dorn Rick Ebert June Endres Jim Erickson Antoinette Fenner Grandpa Frey

Harvey Froemming Barbara Frohmader Elizabeth (Rupnow) Garner Carol Genz Wanda Goodger Mary Ellen Graham Tammy Hafenstein Clyde Hartwig Marian Heese Floyd & Flora Helling Howard Hodel Betty Hoeft Bernard Hookstead Lee Hubbard Virjean Jaeckel Gerald Kastens Darlene Kirchoff Lois Kirkpatrick Christopher Knief Enno & Elaine Knief Robert Koch Jim & Marilyn Koester Mickey Kohl Millie Kopfer

in Honor of

Matthew Davis Marissa (Otterstatter) Essman Faithful Teachers at LLHS Agnes Froemming’s 101st Birthday Stan & Virginia Jaeger’s 50th Wedding Anniversary Caitlin (Moyle) Kraft Alexandra Krahn’ s 15th Birthday Cece, Lexi, Mia, and Paige Krahn Cecelia Krahn’s 17th Birthday Jim and Carol Kuehl

page 14 | Lakeside Lutheran Link | 2024 Issue 1 | llhs.org

Elson Kreklow Rhonda Kreklow Ron Krueger Marlin Kube Laurie Lapp George & Elaine Lehmann Peter Lehmann Marjorie Lemke William Lindert Lee Loging Marlene Meiers Richard Meske Judy Meyer Ellen Milbrath Zachary Moyle Larry and Shirley Neitzel Shirley Nell Lyla Nordlie David Oppermann Pamela Otterstatter Robert Otterstatter Ryan Palmer Lisa Peterson Dooley William E. Peterson Edward & Virginia Plummer

Cheryl Reichert John Richart Jane Rickel Brian Rupnow Denis & Jeanette Rupnow Benjamin Sachse Jeff Sather Charlie Schick Chrysta Schmelzer Ralph H. Schmidt Ryan Schmidt Alice Strassburg Warren Strassburg Paul Tardie Susan Taylor David Thiele Nancy Thiele Jerry Vigansky John C. Wagner Nancy Wendorf Wendy Wilson Bill & Lois Winters Rosalyn Zank LaVonne Zumm Chad Zwieg

Deanne (Otterstatter) Lange Richard Meyer Jacki (Otterstatter) Moyle Ethan, Benjamin, Evan & Luke Neumann Ben Otterstatter Chad Otterstatter Jon Otterstatter Tim Otterstatter Brittany (Otterstatter) Pulito Marliss Steindorf ’s 90th Birthday

Got news?

Share changes & updates at

llhs.org/apps/pages/alum At this spot on the LLHS website you can also see the current list of class reunion contacts on file.

2024 REUNIONS

Check out the latest information under “Upcoming Reunions” at

llhs.org/alum/

Want to get on e-mail lists for these reunions that are still in planning stages?

Provide your info to updateus@llhs.org and Jess will make sure your reunion organizer gets your address.

ÄClass of 1962: 62 years ... Plans are in the works! Stay tuned for more information. Reach out to Mary Ann (Froemming) Kunz at (920) 563-3446 or Tom Baker at (920) 240-7779 with any questions.

ÄClass of 1979: 45 years ... Save the date for 9/7/2024 for your 45th reunion.

Plans are being made to get together for the home football game on 9/6/24.

A tour of the school will be on Saturday morning at 10:30 am with the reunion following in the afternoon and evening at the American Legion in Fort. If you have any questions reach out to Dean Morgan at deanm@hbci.com

ÄClass of 1984: 40 years ... Save the date for 8/24/2024! Your 40th reunion will begin with a school tour from 2-4 pm, then head over to Ebert’s Greenhouse from 4-10 pm. 18 Acres Food truck will be there from 5-7:30 pm for food purchase. Bring your own beverage.

Contact Clara Borck cborck@securityins.net and/or Sue (Brokmeier) Boulden bouldese@lps.wels.net with questions.

ÄClass of 1999: 25 years ... Reunion planning has begun. Save the date for your 25th class reunion set for 6/15/2024 at TJ Harbor’s in Oshkosh from 5:30-10 pm. Heavy apps will be served. $40/person and a cash bar. Please pay at time of registration. Click this LINK to register. Please reach out to Brindah (Jerman) Birkholz (brindah99@yahoo.com) or Dana (Scherer) Reyes (danareyes828@gmail.com) with questions

ÄClass of 2009: 15 years ... Mark your calendars for 8/10/24 at noon at Crawfish Junction. More info will be coming later. Reach out to Miranda (Wolf) Heim if you have questions (mkwolf789@hotmail.com).

Class of 1964, 1969, 1974, 1989, 1994, 2004, 2014, 2019 ...

No reunions planned at this time.

Anyone is welcome to contact Alum Event Coordinator Jess (jmeyer@llhs.org) to change that!

LL Link | 2024 Issue 1 | llhs.org | page 15

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