Marmion Magazine - April 2021

April 2021 | Volume 71, Number 2

Drama Club live streams old fashioned radio plays page 9

A Message from the Head of School Dear Friends,

MARMION The News Magazine of Marmion Abbey and Academy April 2021 | Vol. 71, No. 2 MARMION is published three times a year (April, August, December) by Marmion, 1000 Butterfield Road, Aurora IL, 60502.

Publisher:

Rt. Rev. John Brahill OSB ’67

Editor: Kathleen Hausmann Associate Editor: Terri Rios Contributing Writers:

Brian Birch Paul Chabura Bill Fox ’74 Kathleen Hausmann Mark Malkowski ’08 Fr. Charles Reichenbacher OSB ’59 Terri Rios Tyler Suess ’22 Anthony Tinerella ’84

Photographers:

Brian Cole ’81 Laura Donoghue Bill Fox ’74 Terri Rios Jennifer Robertson Cover Photo by: Brian Cole ‘81 The sound effects crew used old school techniques to bring the Drama Club’s radio plays to life.

Send address changes to:

MARMION Magazine Editor Marmion Academy 1000 Butterfield Road Aurora, IL 60502 Phone: (630) 897-6936 FAX: (630) 723-3072 E-mail: trios@marmion.org Web Site: marmion.org

Faith, courage, determination, perseverance, resiliency, honor, strength, and community are more than just words.

They are values that have been at the cornerstone of a Marmion education actively modeled by the Monks of Marmion Abbey for over eight decades.

On Friday, March 13 of 2020, when the school was closed due to a new virus that had begun to spring up all over the world, these values took on an even greater importance. They became a mindset for getting to the other side of a pandemic, the likes of which the world has not seen in over a hundred years.

While all at Marmion have worked very hard on behalf of our students, this has been a very trying time for all, especially our students. Through it all though, our sense of community and support for one another has stayed strong and our outstanding young men have been an inspiration as they continue living out their faith, showing great courage and determination working through hybrid learning, special schedules, and varying protocols. They demonstrate perseverance and resiliency in the face of adversity, and continue to represent God, themselves, their families, and Marmion with great honor and integrity.

In looking back over the past year, a year we all wish would have been so very different, we remember and mourn for those who have suffered or died. We continue to reach out and support one another, and celebrate our first responders, health care workers, and all who have been there for those in need.

Now as we look forward, we are getting closer and closer to returning to a ‘state of normalcy’ and the light at the end of this pandemic tunnel. This seems to be coming at a very appropriate time of year, as spring is in the air and the promise of new life that comes with it. In an even greater sense, we near the end of this pandemic at a time when we are blessed by the promise of everlasting life by our Lord, Jesus Christ through His passion, death, and Resurrection. It is our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, who is our Light in the darkness, and He has been there with us through it all.

We are very excited to return to full in-person instruction after Easter Break and look forward to the many annual spring events and activities! As they say, it takes a village, and it most definitely has.

We are on the verge of making it through one of the most trying years in Marmion history – and we did it because we stayed together as one community centered around Christ.

The quote “WE ARE MA”, chanted by our students during athletic and community events, represents so much more than just a school or place. They represent every person who has ever been a part of the Marmion Family and the time-tested Catholic Benedictine values represented in everything we do. Since 1933, they have represented the hard work and resiliency of our students, the dedication and passion of our faculty and staff, the generosity and support of our friends and benefactors, and the inspiration and role modeling of the monks of Marmion Abbey in everything they do. “WE ARE MA” is an ideal that goes beyond words, it is a phrase that represents over eight decades of faith-filled individuals, bonded by a common purpose to keep Marmion a place where young men go to become faith filled leaders of tomorrow. It is our common love of and belief in Marmion that will keep Marmion strong through the good times and the tough times for generations to come!

May God bless and watch over each of you and your families, and may God continue to watch over and bless Marmion Academy.

Respectfully, Anthony Tinerella ’84 Head of School and Principal

2 - Head of School’s Letter

Someone I’m Glad to Have Known: “Oy” Aister ’59

by Fr. Charles Reichenbacher, OSB ’59, Director of Planned Giving +Edwin “Oy” Aister ’59 of Yorkville died on March 1, 2021, just 29 days short of his 80th birthday. Oy was a character (= unique person), and someone I think you should know. Monks have been the usual subjects of my Someone You Should Know articles, but Oy was such a character that I could not resist writing about him in this issue. I was celebrant of his Funeral Mass on March 6 at St. Joe’s Church in Aurora, in the heart of Pigeon Hill (as the north-east area of Aurora is still affectionately called). Fellow ’59 classmate, Fr. Kenneth Theisen, OSB, concelebrated with me.

Ed was my Marmion classmate and friend. He was a fellow jock on our Undefeated 1957 Football Team, Coach Neal Fichtel’s ’45 first team as Varsity Coach.

We claim we were his “best team” but this can make for a good argument at the bar of the Phoenix Club in Aurora.

Oy went on to get a college degree. After St. Benedict College and Benedictine University, it was Northern IL University that finally graduated him. He eventually got involved in construction material sales and home construction, starting his own development company, Xanadu Homes, in the Naperville and the Fox Valley areas.

Oy was a risk-taker, both in business and in life, but never a fool.

His poker games and other games of chance were legendary.

He was invited twice to play in the World Series of Poker in Las Vegas. Ed and wife Diane traveled extensively and visited all 50 States. He coached kids’ football and had a famous (or infamous) TV sports talk show with Harry Childress, father of former NFL coach Brad Childress ’74.

Ed bore the cross of sorrow and pain. He buried his only child, daughter Michelle, who was 30 years old at her death caused by cancer, and buried his wife Diane in 2014, who suffered from Alzheimer’s in her final years. Oy himself was pretty much bed-ridden his final years.

Ed (#22) and Fr. Charles in 1957

Oy (mispronouncing “Aister” as “Oyster” and you get “Oy”) grew up on Pigeon Hill, and he was, self-proclaimed, the Prince of Pigeon Hill. He had 35 cousins and 14 aunts and uncles within walking distance. He wrote his own obituary that tells of his simple childhood joys of growing up in a self-contained neighborhood; a situation that many our age can relate to.

Oy was a friend to everyone. He was a Tom Sawyer character who knew how to relate both to the kids’ world and the adult world. Fun-loving and serious, he was both an “SS” (stripeless senior) in the Marmion Military Academy battalion, yet he won “best shine” a few times. An “SS” is a notorious goofball senior who keeps getting “busted” (demoted). He was one of the football captains, yet a regular in the Dean of Students Office. He dated the Homecoming Queen. He loved Marmion and became a Life Member of the Abbot Marmion Society.

How do you describe in a few words a character like Oy? Best I can is a “Zest for Life” and a “Love of Others.” Rest in peace, my friend.

Ed and Diane Aister

Happy 90th Birthday, Fr. Bernard!

Fr. Bernard Schafer, OSB celebrated his 90th birthday on January 13, 2021.

Cards and well wishes can be sent to: Fr. Bernard Schafer, OSB c/o Br. André Charron, OSB 850 Butterfield Road Aurora, IL 60502 Abbey - 3

Enjoy live music and a new Chef Dave cafe menu every other Saturday through May with Beat the Freeze. A great way to relax and have some fun in a unique and safe setting at Abbey Farms. Plus more to come during Summer Ramble, starting in July. The farm store is open on these days – stop in for your favorite items.

Visit BeatTheFreeze.org for more information!

(630) 966-7775 · abbeyfarms.org · 2855 Hart Road, Aurora, IL ·    4 - Abbey Farms

Arizaga

Caballes

Carrera

Chapski

Daffenberg

Davis

De Leon

Hlavacek

Lin

Liz

McGray

Ozsvath

Quail

Stratton

Sullivan

Wirth

Class of 2025 Scholarship Recipients Sixteen eighth-graders have been awarded academic scholarships to attend Marmion Academy this fall. Scholarships were awarded based on academic merit on the entrance exam held in December 2020. These scholarships have a value of $344,00 over four years. The four Alumni Association Scholarships awarded are restricted to sons, grandsons, nephews or brothers of Marmion alumni. The following have received academic scholarships as members of Marmion’s class of 2025: Emilio Arizaga, son of Emilio Arizaga and Sandra Arizaga, both of Montgomery, was awarded the Ted Sharpenter Memorial Scholarship. Emilio attends Holy Angels School in Aurora.

Ryan Caballes, son of Eugene and Colleen Caballes of Aurora, was awarded the Jan and Tom Montiegel Memorial Scholarship. Ryan attends Holy Angels School in Aurora.

Samuel Carrera, son of Janelle Carrera of North Aurora and Ruben Carrea of Aurora, was awarded the Rev. Peter Enderlin, OSB Memorial Alumni Association Scholarship. Samuel attends St. Peter School in Geneva. He is the brother of Nicholas ’22.

Thomas Chapski, son of Michael ’84 and Karen Chapski of Elgin, was awarded the Rev. Sebastian Crow, OSB Memorial Alumni Association Scholarship. Thomas attends St. Patrick School in St. Charles. He is the nephew of John ’83 and cousin of Ryan ’21.

John Daffenberg, son of Bret and Julie Daffenberg of Yorkville, was awarded the Dr. Casey B. Mulligan ’87 Scholarship. John attends Cross Lutheran School in Yorkville.

Remington Davis, son of Dirck and Deborah Davis of Batavia, was awarded the LT Thomas A. Rippinger, USN ’68 Memorial Scholarship.

Remington attends Annunciation BVM School in Aurora.

Nicholas De Leon, son of Ricardo and Maria De Leon of Oswego, was awarded the John M. Regole, Jr. ’63 Memorial Scholarship. Nicholas attends Holy Angels School in Aurora.

Vincent Hlavacek, son of Robert and Kristin Hlavacek of St. Charles, was awarded the James J. Kochevar ’67 Memorial Scholarship. Vincent attends St. Patrick School in St. Charles.

Samuel Lin, son of James and Audrey Lin of Aurora, was awarded the Edwin and Laurina Witting Memorial Scholarship. Samuel attends Holy Cross School in Batavia. He is the brother of Dian ’17.

Juan Liz, son of Silvestre and Diana Liz of Aurora, was awarded the James D. Weiland ’62 Scholarship. Juan attends St. Rita of Cascia School in Aurora. He is the grandson of Salvador Rios ’61, nephew of Daniel Rios ’94, brother of Carlos Liz ’20, and cousin of Michael ’08, Jonathan ’12, and Daniel ’22 Rios.

Nathan McGray, son of Michael and Heather McGray of Maple Park, was awarded the Rev. Alcuin Deck, OSB Memorial Alumni Association Scholarship. Nathan attends Kaneland Harter Middle School. He is the grandson of John McGray ’65 and

great-nephew of James McGray ’61.

Adam Ozsvath, son of Keith and Susan Ozsvath of North Aurora, was awarded the Dr. Alfred G. ’32 and Mary A. Chione Memorial Scholarship. Adam attends The Avery Coonley School in Downers Grove.

Anthony Quail, son of Joshua and Vanessa Quail of St. Charles, was awarded the Rev. Charles Reichenbacher, OSB ’59 Scholarship. Anthony attends Holy Cross School in Batavia. He is the cousin of Joshua ’11 and Jared ’19 Beltz.

Bradley Stratton, son of Brian and Lorena Stratton of Oswego, was awarded the Daniel ’49 and Peg Guddendorf Memorial Alumni Association Scholarship. Bradley attends Traughber Junior High School in Oswego. He is the brother of Brian, Jr. ’22.

Matthew Sullivan, son of Patrick and Jennifer Sullivan of Warrenville, was awarded the John J. Mulvihill, Jr. ’39 Memorial Scholarship. Matthew attends St. Irene School in Warrenville.

Samuel Wirth, son of Shannon Wirth of Aurora, was awarded the Rev. Barnabas Lundergan, OSB and Rev. Edmund Ziegler, OSB Memorial Scholarship. Samuel attends Holy Cross School in Batavia.

Academy - 5

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Continuing to Give

by Mark Malkowski ’08, Director of Campus Ministry and Student Life Out of all that goes on at Marmion throughout the school year, our students’ commitment to living out the Gospel through serving others remains at the forefront. Our tradition of service is a hallmark of the Marmion experience.

This year, as our world has been faced with unprecedented challenges, our students have continued to reach out to those in our wider community by: 1. Helping to put food on the table for those in need...

Nicholas Coffman ‘21 organized a virtual food drive that raised over $7,000 for the Aurora and Batavia Interfaith Food Pantries.

2. Bringing joy, love, and encouragement to those who need it most... Students created over 1,000 letters and cards for local first responders, elderly who live in nursing facilities, and Illinois Special Olympics athletes (organized by [pictured] Nathan ‘22 and Tyler ‘24 Sowers and [not pictured] Brady Everett ‘21 ).

3. Living out the true meaning of Christmas... Students participated in an effort to donate Christmas toys for families at the Dominican Literacy Center in Aurora. (pictured above l-r, sophomore “elves” Jake Stumm, Luke O’Connor, Max Olson and Ben Seykora with Fr. Michael Burrows, OSB ‘70) 4. Giving of their time for the benefit of others... Our football team assisted with a community Christmas lights charity fundraiser. Many students have spent hours packing meals at Feed My Starving Children (pictured above). The hockey team assembled Christmas gifts for our Marmion monks.

5. Supporting local families in crisis… Students donated non-perishable food items and household goods that were given directly to multiple area families in need.

6. Giving back to those who serve ... Over 50 care packages were created and mailed by students to troops overseas (pictured above Jimmy Kosmach ’23).

Students Awarded for Christian Leadership

by Mark Malkowski ’08, Director of Campus Ministry and Student Life

The Blessed Columba Marmion Award honors and highlights our Benedictine tradition and recognizes the good works, high character, and many accomplishments of our students. This award proudly acknowledges those who demonstrate exemplary Christian leadership by living out the values of Marmion Academy and the Benedictine Hallmarks of Love, Prayer, Stability, Conversatio, Obedience, Discipline, Humility, Stewardship, Hospitality, and Community.

November 2020 recipients:

Matthews

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Seykora

Verdecchia

Dumadag

Jack Matthews ’24: Awarded for Love Jack has shown a tremendous amount of care, concern, and compassion for his classmates. He has actively worked to build up his class by standing up for his peers and speaking out against the mistreatment of others. Jack sets an impressive example of kindness and what it means to look out for those around him.

Ben Seykora ’23: Awarded for Community

Ben is a quiet, but strong, force of virtue. He added so much to the Cross Country team by always being there and adding to the team’s spirit, even during the summer’s difficult workouts. Ben is the best of us - always working hard and consistently doing the right thing - in the classroom, through athletics, and in his everyday interactions - while never seeking fanfare or applause.

He is a constant presence of respect, high character, and positivity.

Leo Verdecchia ’22: Awarded for Hospitality

Leo is a model of genuineness and authenticity. He is someone who leads by example by always doing what is right, welcoming and supporting others, and helping to create a true sense of community and brotherhood. Leo has repeatedly shown these qualities throughout his time at Marmion, but most recently at our middle school baseball camp and on our junior retreat. At the camp he went above and beyond to engage with the middle school athletes, helping them to feel welcome at a place they might one day call their home. On retreat, he showed himself to be someone who others could turn to in times of need. While Leo demonstrates a strong commitment and work ethic in his personal endeavors, his first priority is always towards others - a true example of Benedictine hospitality.

George Dumadag ’21: Awarded for Discipline

George has faced head on the difficulties of being a remote learner this semester, especially the added stress of not being able to see teachers and classmates in person. Despite this, he enthusiastically attends and participates in class each day, and reaches out to friends in an effort to contribute to a positive class environment. George’s physical presence is greatly missed, but his character continues to bring life and a spirit of dedication to the class. As a result, he has shown great personal improvement and has motivated others to improve as well.

Fergus

Morcos

Coffman

Geno Ruggiero Shimkus ’24: Awarded for Community

Geno is an amazing example of community at Marmion Academy.

Although he is a freshman, Geno possesses upperclassmen-like qualities that will the good of others before himself; specifically those who struggle. Whenever he notices someone else having difficulty, he goes out of his way to help them. Geno does not expect accolades for his efforts and is humble in his disposition.

He makes Marmion a better, kinder place, and will continue to do so throughout his Marmion career.

Aidan Fergus ’23: Awarded for Humility

Aidan is a humble young man. He knows himself and is comfortable letting others take praise and attention. He is the opposite of prideful; never upset about others’ victories or good fortune. Aidan’s quiet kindness and gentleness show the Marmion community a bright shining example of humility.

Joe Morcos ’22: Awarded for Community

Nicholas Coffman ’21: Awarded for Humility

Nick is an incredibly talented and accomplished young man, but he does not seek praise or publicity for his many accomplishments.

Instead, he is constantly focused on others. A shining example of this is his organization of the food drive for the needy this past summer. Nick would not want recognition for following Our Lord’s example to feed the hungry; he was simply living out his commitment to Christ. He serves as a fine role model of charity and humility for all of us in the Marmion Community.

February 2021 recipients:

Healy

Quevedo

Kavanaugh

Fuscher

Jack Healy ‘24: Awarded for Hospitality

Jack is an incredible young man - and the epitome of hospitality.

He is respectful, kind, a hard worker and an excellent listener.

Jack shows genuine selflessness and humility by never boasting about his own accomplishments, but instead acknowledges the gifts and talents of those around him. He is a true role model for all of us and sets an example of what it means to be consistently focused on the well-being of others, while at the same time always working to his fullest potential.

Bruno Quevedo ‘23: Awarded for Community

December 2020/January 2021 recipients:

Ruggiero Shimkus

just by being himself. He brings a natural joy and camaraderie to each class session, which helps promote a welcoming environment in an otherwise dreary year. He is also a naturally empathetic individual who wants the best for his classmates and peers.

Joe has shown tremendous growth throughout his time at Marmion. While he may be one of the more vocal students in the classroom, he is also one of the more understated individuals in the junior class as a whole. He doesn’t often seek the spotlight, but instead simply contributes to the class community in a positive way

Bruno is a young man with a heart of service. He has sacrificed a lot of things in his life in order to find ways to reach out and help others. He demonstrates this through the joy and care he gives when visiting the nursing home to play Bingo. Even though we’ve been unable to visit this year, Bruno has continued to show a great concern for the residents there. In all that he does at Marmion, Bruno can always be counted on for his enthusiasm, commitment and heart of service.

Sean Kavanaugh ‘22: Awarded for Humility

Sean is a young man who tries to live out his faith on a daily basis. He is genuinely a student who seeks to better himself in every aspect of his Marmion experience. Sean is friendly, compassionate, honest, hardworking and caring. He is also a young man who displays in his daily life the honor and strength of character that we hope all of our students will develop, thus serving as an excellent role model. We are truly fortunate to have Sean as a member of our student body.

Joe Fuscher ‘21: Awarded for Love

Joe is the epitome of love. He demonstrates this characteristic in a way that is seldom seen through his consistent care for others.

He is the type of individual who wishes everyone around him true happiness, is always willing to offer a smile and warm welcome, and makes those around him feel comfortable being themselves - all qualities that contribute in a positive way to build up the Marmion community. Joe also demonstrates his love of his faith and serves as a spiritual leader through his willingness to lead prayer or read at Mass. Joe offers great hope for the future of our community and the Church.

Academy - 7

Performing & Visual Arts ILMEA All-State Chorus Honors

Seniors Collin Roin, Sam Hoying, and Andreas Noel were honored with three different ILMEA (Illinois Music Educators Association) All-State Chorus Honors.

Collin Roin submitted his song, Few Steps, to the ILMEA composition contest. Roin composed and produced the song in the spring of 2019, and premiered his composition at the Mr. Marmion competition, an annual mock-talent school production, in early March of 2020.

Collin is the first Marmion student to ever submit a composition to the ILMEA composition contest. Over Collin Roin 300 students from across the State of Illinois submitted compositions. Collin won first overall for his category of commercial singer/songwriter! He is currently working on two new songs in an independent study at Marmion, and hopes to continue writing and performing his music in college and perhaps as a career.

Sam Hoying will be singing in the All-State Choir. This will be Hoying’s second consecutive year, having performed in the All-State Honors Choir his junior year.

Sam Hoying

Andreas Noel also has the added distinction of singing in this year’s AllState Honors Choir which comprises the best of the best in the State. Both Sam and Andreas auditioned in a very competitive District back in October 2020.

Despite the challenges of COVID-19 and virtual auditions, they ranked among the top high school student vocalists in the State. The placing of these particular students grant them the opportunity to perform in the AllState Choirs featuring the top students from across the State of Illinois.

“We are proud of all of the Marmion musicians who continue to make Andreas Noel us proud with their dedication, effort, and excellence,” Brian Birch, Chorus Director of the Marmion Men’s Choir, said of the three students.

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ILMEA All-State Orchestra Honors

Senior trombonist Diego Gutierrez has placed in the Illinois All-State Orchestra. The process to become an All-State musician is a rigorous one that begins with an audition at the ILMEA (Illinois Music Educators Association) District level. This year, auditions were complicated due to the fact that auditions were virtual (they are usually live). Once a student “makes” the District band, he or she has to place at a high enough level to qualify to continue onto the State level.

“Diego’s achievement is even more remarkable because he achieved this all as a band student. The Illinois All-State Orchestra only takes six trombone players, total, from all musicians across the State. At the District level, Diego placed so high that he was recommended to play with the Orchestra, which is filled with the best woodwind/brass/ percussionists from the District level. These positions are assigned before the District band membership is set. The Orchestra then gets the “cream off the top” of the band auditions because in an orchestra every woodwind, brass and percussionist has to be a soloist,” stated René Rosas, Marmion Academy Band Director.

His ability to excel through this difficult audition process shows that Gutierrez is truly one of the top six trombone players in the entire State of Illinois.

Fermilab Virtual Art Exhibit

Artwork by (above, l-r) Daniel Coxworth ’21, Jack Fischer ’21, Mrs. Dzuricsko, (below, l-r) Thienan Nguyen ’21, and Sam Phipps ’21 was included in Fermilab’s virtual art exhibit, “Be a part of pARTicles.” The exhibit was a community project for the Fermilab Family Virtual Open House in February 2021. You can view the exhibit online at https:// events.fnal.gov/art-gallery/be-a-part-of-particles-gallery.

Live Radio Hour by Brian Birch, Chorus Director/Drama Club Moderator and Tyler Suess ’22, Cast Member The initial lockdown for the pandemic occured exactly two weeks before the Marmion musical, My Fair Lady, was to be produced (March 27-29, 2020). Since then, there has not been a single live performance on Marmion’s campus.

While studying the past, the Drama Club determined that a radio play could be produced and presented live while adhering to COVID protocols. Masking, social distancing, and a hybrid format allowed the performers to live stream four radio plays to the Marmion LIVE YouTube channel on February 26 & 27, 2021.

The radio hour began with Challenge of the Yukon, followed by 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, Who’s on First, and finished off with The Time Machine. The recordings of these live events are still available for viewing on the Marmion LIVE YouTube channel.

Tyler Suess ’22, who played the role of Sgt. Preston in Challenge of the Yukon, writes of his experience: “The audition process for me was both confusing and fun. I decided to join because I had never done any sort of acting before, much less live acting in a radio play. The audition process was surprisingly easy. We were given a choice of a short paragraph to read, and filled out an application where we stated why we wanted to be part of the radio play, and what we wanted to do. Overall, the audition process made me more excited to find out what I would be selected to do.

We were soon given parts, and our rehearsal process began with us getting to know our stories and characters. Over Zoom meetings and on our own, my group and I learned about the story of The Challenge of the Yukon, and the

characters we were playing. I particularly enjoyed watching each member develop the personality of their characters, from a devious French man to an enthusiastic husky.

In what seemed like just a few days, it was tech week! This was when we made the final touches on our reading styles and how we would tell the story. The sound effects and general atmosphere really began to take shape, and I was astounded at how coordinated and creative the crew was.

They were able to depict whole fight scenes by hitting desks, slamming doors, and stomping shoes - all with just sounds.

At this point, the cast knew each other and we knew our characters so well that we began to experiment and make the Play our own.

The performances were probably the most fun part, even though I was completely unaware of what they would be like. For over an hour and a half, the entire room was silent as we watched hours of practice come together into one play. I wasn’t nearly as nervous as I thought I would be.

Before I knew it, I was done with my part and watching the rest of the cast perform their own plays, admiring and enjoying the unique stories they told through their acting.

Overall, the radio play was a super fun and mind-opening experience. I had always wanted to do some form of acting at Marmion, and the radio play was my chance. I will always remember the fun times we had developing our characters and getting to know each other’s styles, working towards the common goal of making something great and unique to us. I truly enjoyed every moment I spent working on the Marmion radio play.”

Scan this QR code to watch Saturday’s performance on the Marmion LIVE YouTube channel.

Academy - 9

In the News ..........................................................................

National Merit Finalists

Seniors Ryan Bennett and Nicholas Wilson of have been named Finalists in the 66th Annual National Merit Scholarship Program.

Bennett and Wilson are among the top 15,000 high school students nationwide who were awarded the distinction of Finalist by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC). To become a National Merit Finalist, Semifinalists must submit a detailed scholarship application, which includes their academic record, extracurricular activities, demonstrated leadership abilities, employment, honors and awards. They must also be endorsed by a high school official, submit an essay, and perform well on the SAT. The National Merit Scholarship program honors students who show exceptional academic ability and potential for success in rigorous college studies.

Over 1.5 million juniors in about 21,000 high schools entered the 2021 National Merit Scholarship Program by taking the 2019 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT®), which served as an initial screen of program entrants. According to the NMSC, by the conclusion of the 2021 competition, about 7,500 Finalists will be selected as National Merit Scholarship recipients.

Ted Brattin Civic Youth Award

Nicholas Coffman is a recipient of the 2020 Ted Brattin Youth Service Award, sponsored by the Rotary Club of Aurora and the Navy League of the United StatesAurora Council. Ted Brattin was an Aurora businessman who was involved in founding the Aurora Council of the Navy League and the Aurora-Naperville Rotary Club. This annual award is presented to Fox Valley youth ages 14-19 who, like Brattin, have exhibited qualities of citizenship, service and leadership through activities in school, church or community.

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The honor includes a $100 award and a Certificate of Recognition which would have been presented to Coffman at a special award ceremony on December 7, 2020. However, due to COVID-19 restrictions, this year’s ceremony did not take place.

Coffman was nominated for this award by Marmion Academy’s Director of Campus Ministry and Student Life, Mark Malkowski ’08, who said, “Nicholas’ qualities of humility, generosity, and genuineness are at the heart of who he is as an individual and as a leader. Continuously throughout his high school career, he has demonstrated these traits through his model of leadership and commitment to service, especially by his integral involvement in many aspects of the Campus Ministry program at Marmion.”

“Nicholas is never one to seek the spotlight, but rather is driven by his unrelenting desire to benefit others. He maintains a character and a spirit of humility, authenticity, and giving that is truly second to none. His constant pursuit to do what is right sets an inspirational example for all to follow. There is no doubt that Nicholas’ values, dedication, record of service, and generous leadership qualify him as an outstanding nominee to receive the Ted Brattin Youth Service Award,” wrote Malkowski in his letter of recommendation.

Marmion Math Team Back in Action

The Marmion Math Team competed in the Lemont Invitational Contest on Wednesday, February 3. With 21 competing teams, Marmion scored no worse than 7th in each event, and finished with the 3rd highest team total.

• F/S 8-Person: 1st Place Billy Eby ’23, Chris Eby ’24, Drake Ghaderi ’23, James Jochum ’24, James Kennedy ’24, Jon Moscinski ’24, Levi Thompson ’23, Josh Walter ’23 • Algebra 1: 2nd Place Nathan Brandon ’24, James Jochum ’24, James Kennedy ’24, Jon Moscinski ’24 • Geometry: 2nd Place Billy Eby ’23, Peter Lemke ’23, Levi Thompson ’23, Josh Walter ’23 • Algebra 2: 4th Place Will Donahoe ’22, Charlie Konen ’22, Brian Stratton ’22, Jackson Wittenberg ’22 • PreCalculus: 4th Place Ryan Bennett ’21, Nick Coffman ’21, Jack Melcher ’21, Zeke Pyle ’21, Bryce Riner ’21, Nick Wilson ’21 • J/S 8-Person: 7th Place Nick Coffman ’21, Charlie Konen ’22, Zeke Pyle ’21, Bryce Riner ’21, Nathan Sowers ’22, Brian Stratton ’22 Nick Wilson ’21, Jackson Wittenberg ’22

Preparing for and Preventing the Spread of COVID by: Bill Fox ’74, Director of Alumni and Constituent Relations

As the pandemic swept across the country last year, Marmion closed its campus and instituted full time ‘e-learning’ for all students through the remainder of the 2019-2020 school year. Graduation for our Class of 2020 was held in the faculty parking lot as we adapted effectively to the ‘new normal’. As our State and local authorities instituted guidelines to safely conduct in-person learning in the fall, Marmion again adapted.

Our campus opened this school year on time, but everything has certainly been different for our students, faculty, and staff. One of he primary reasons Marmion has been able to offer our students in-person hybrid learning throughout the school year is our dedicated team of facility management professionals, led by our Facilities Manager and Maintenance Staff Supervisor, Mr. Tom Moore.

By now we’re all familiar with masking and social distancing protocols which are in force, but there is so much more that’s involved in keeping a campus of Marmion’s size as safe and healthy as possible.

Our classrooms have been redesigned to employ the social distance prescribed by the various government bodies involved. Everyone is required to wear a facemask at all times and visitors are not allowed at any time. Building entrances are extremely limited and students, faculty, and staff are checked daily before admission. Hand sanitizing stations have been installed throughout the buildings and hallways and stairways have been deemed “one-way” to facilitate a smoother flow and less congestion during passing periods. Plexiglass partitions have been installed in highly trafficked areas such as Mrs. Hernandez’ reception area, Mrs. Bock’s desk in the Head of School’s office, Mrs. Malatt’s office in Student Affairs, and the computer labs.

Don Clemen ’65 fills a spray bottle with Vital Oxide, a high-grade cleaning solution.

Plexiglass partition in the computer lab; one of the several Respicare Oxy-4 air scrubbers used throughout campus.

The real “Marmion Difference,” when compared to those schools that remain closed, is the dedication that our Facilities and Maintenance Staff has demonstrated throughout the pandemic. They now utilize a high-grade cleaning solution named Vital Oxide which has been used for years in surgical suites and other medical facilities. Respicare Oxy4 air scrubbers have been installed throughout our campus. Every classroom and office has been equipped with PPE supplies that are replenished daily. Our staff has instituted an aggressive cleaning and sanitizing regimen as well as adding shifts and personnel to ensure that every space is fully and completely disinfected each and every day.

Without the dedicated efforts of our Maintenance Staff and full compliance of all protocols and guidance by everyone at Marmion, we would not have been able to experience the high degree of success conducting our classes throughout this entire school year.

José Cazares cleans the desks in the Regole Field House.

A sincere thank you to the Marmion Maintenance Staff for their hardwork and dedication: • Thomas Moore, Facilities Manager/Maintenance Supervisor • Zane Holland ’10, Assistant Maintenance Manager • Nick Lentz ’96, Assistant Operations Manager • Jose Cazares, Maintenance Staff • Don Clemen ’65, Maintenance Staff • Darrin Houghtby, Maintenance Staff • Jordan Stroup, Maintenance Staff • Efrain Torres, Maintenance Staff • Freddy Vargas, Maintenance Staff

The Improv Club meets in the Leonard Lux Dining Hall. The field house and dining hall were transformed into socially distanced spaces where Cadets could study, eat lunch, or gather safely in accordance with the Kane County Department of Public Health guidelines.

Academy - 11

The Swim Team performs their opening cheer. (photo by Jennifer Robertson)

Cadets Winter Season Wrap-Up by: Paul Chabura, Athletic Director

The roller coaster ride, the 2020-21 school year, continues and it took a huge turn in late January when the IHSA, with the permission of the IDPH and the Governor’s Office, announced the beginning of winter sports and all subsequent sports as well.

For the first time in months our Cadets have been able to gather to engage in the sports they love. It’s been a very busy time, but also a very rewarding last few weeks as our student-athletes filled our gyms and external facilities with a lot of excitement and energy.

The first sports to get our seasons started have been our basketball, hockey, and swim teams. A brief recap of their seasons up to this point is below.

Basketball

The basketball season officially began on February 1st and the Chicago Catholic League, with the blessing of its coaches, took a very aggressive approach to scheduling.

The coaches all agreed to try and play one another in a full “round robin” format. Therefore, a fifteen game schedule was developed where schools would play Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. The goal was to play everyone and crown a Conference champion.

We had a bit of a hiccup to begin the season when one of our athletes was unfortunately diagnosed with a positive COVID test forcing our entire program to quarantine for 14 days. Unfortunately, this also caused us to cancel our first five games of the year.

Since then we consistently got better and better each and every game. As I write this we have four remaining games on our schedule. We are currently 1-5 but taking positive strides in the process despite such limited time to practice.

After not being allowed to meet during the shutdown, practice was at a premium. Coach Young and his players came to school in the morning and afternoon to take advantage of the limited time they had to practice and prepare for their gauntlet of games.

All of our games have been live streamed. Thanks to our Sports Boosters who assisted in the purchase of two Hudl Focus cameras which allow for top of the line analysis and film breakdown, but also the capability to live stream all of our competitions to our constituents watching at home. If you want to follow along with the action, please check our 8to18 athletic site for the latest schedules and then check out our Marmion Live YouTube channel at https://www. youtube.com/channel/UC1qolsP6A79AoD2ZvqZcB_A

Our boys were champs about the added practices and long days. They simply wanted to take advantage of any opportunity they could gather with their teammates and play the sport they love.

On Senior Night we honored Corey Crowder, Jack Fischer, Nick Reid, Neal Schwartz, and Jacob Silagi for their efforts and dedication to our program. We wish them all the best in their future endeavors.

12 - Athletics

Geo’marco Grano ‘21 (photo by Laura Donoghue)

We recognized our senior swimmers at their last home meet on Saturday, March 6 and thank them for their dedicated service to our program: Patrick Ashbrook, Tristan Burtner, Ryan Conner, Aidan De La Cruz, Liam Devine, Brady Everett, Sam Hapke, Ramiro Martinez, Ben Robertson, and Tyler Spillane.

Both JV and Varsity teams both ended their season placing 4th in the Metro Catholic Aquatic Conference (MCAC) Championships on Saturday, March 13, 2021. During this meet 85% of our swimmers recorded their best times of the season.

Hockey

Our hockey players have endured some ups and downs over the last few months. They started their season only to have it interrupted and shut down. They have had some tournament competitions while wondering if the CCHL season will ever take place or not. AHAI announced that a post-season State Hockey Tournament will not take place, which made our players concerned that they would not have a season at all. So, when the late January announcement was made by the Governor’s Office and IDPH, it rejuvenated the hope within our boys.

The CCHL announced that they will conduct a regular season along with an end of regular season tournament.

The season will stretch through the end of April. I’m thrilled for our coaches and players to be allowed to compete in a regular season.

We have a talented team, which showed when our Cadets kicked-off their season against large CCHL programs St. Rita and Fenwick, and defeated them both respectively by scores of 5-1 and 5-3. They then took on CCHL power Providence Catholic and gave them all they could handle before falling by a score of 4-3. We wish all of our hockey Cadets the best of luck for the rest of their season. A final recap will be provided for our next edition.

Spring Sports

Football and soccer will get an opportunity to play their seasons, which were pushed back from this fall. Soccer officially began on March 1 and Football on March 3. It is unusual to see football and soccer practicing this late in the school year, but very happy that they will have an opportunity to compete.

The soccer season began on Thursday, March 11 with a victory against East Aurora. The season runs through April 17. The Chicago Catholic League has also provided a full schedule and we hope to maximize our opportunities to compete.

Football planned to kick-off off their six game season season on Friday, March 19 against De La Salle, but COVID quarantine ended that. There will be no Playoffs this year, but considering that most of us figured there would be no season at all, we are grateful for the opportunity to compete.

Summer Sports

Our traditional spring sports will get their seasons started on April 5th and run through June 19th. The IHSA is really pushing to allow for a State series to take place for our summer sports. Considering that their season was lost last year it would be great for them to complete their season with a State series.

Swimming

The swim team officially started in late January. Our boys were ready to tackle the challenges that came along with this unusual season.

Senior leadership has been on great display throughout the season. During the lockdown our seniors held conditioning sessions to keep our swimmers in shape and ready for the season, whenever it would take place. It paid off as our swimmers won their first meet of the season defeating St. Charles East in a nail biter.

They later took on reigning State champ, St. Charles North and lost to them due to diving events.

Seniors Ryan Conner, Ben Robertson, and Ty Spillane have performed very well throughout the season and have been tremendous in keeping all of our swimming Cadets motivated and hungry to be better despite there being no State tournament.

Letters of Intent Since our last issue, December 2020, the following senior student-athletes have signed Letters of Intent to play their sport at the collegiate level.

Congratulations to: • Ryan Conner - Swimming, University of Missouri, St. Louis • Paddy Fitzgerald - Football, Illinois Wesleyan University • Andrew Galle - Hockey, Dayton University • Sam Greco - Hockey, Wash U • Jacob Scales - Football, University of Sioux Falls • Jacob Silagi - Basketball, Beloit College

Athletics - 13

The Regole Legacy

by: Fr. Charles Reichenbacher, OSB ’59, Director of Planned Giving

Ten years ago construction began on the Regole Field House, which started in the summer of 2010 and was completed in January of 2012. This was the third building/area at Marmion Academy in the 2000s that was named REGOLE: the Regole Natatorium in 2004, the Regole Science Center in 2010, and the Regole Field House in 2012.

Gertrude and Maurice Regole, Sr. of St. Charles sent all three of their sons to Marmion: Edward ’50, Maurice, Jr. ’52, and John ’63; their three daughters, Viola “Vi”, Barbara, and Rosemary “Rosie” attended the former Mt. St. Mary Academy in St. Charles. The Regoles were dairy farmers in St. Charles; their farm was located at North Avenue (IL Rt. 64) and Kirk Road.

Their oldest son, Edward “Ed”, traveled every day back and forth to the Marmion Lake Street Campus in Aurora. He wanted to play football, but he had to be home right after school to milk the cows.

Their youngest son, John, developed bone cancer while a senior at Marmion. He missed many classes but was able to graduate due to the dedication of Fr. Terence Stanton, OSB who came often to the Regole home to tutor him. John died in March 1964, eight months after his graduation. His mother, Gertrude, never forgot Fr. Terence’s kindness. When it came time to build the Abbey Church in 1997, she donated $50,000 in John’s memory.

Ed Regole ’50 followed in his father’s footsteps as a dairy farmer. Ed also knew personal tragedy, with his first wife, Antoinette, dying in December 1976, and his second wife, Vivienne, dying in June 2014. Ed’s first gift to Marmion was $5,000 for a Class Challenge for his 50th Vivienne and Ed ‘50 Regole Class Reunion in 2000.

His great generosity to Marmion began in earnest in January 2002, with the gift of a 382 acre farm in western Illinois valued at $1 million (which was quickly sold), and another gift of $292,000. Ed directed these gifts for the reconstruction of Marmion’s Natatorium, built in 1967, with the pool in 2001 deemed too shallow and the filtration system outdated. When the reconstruction was completed in 2004, the pool was named the Regole Natatorium.

The top floor of the classroom building (now named Yender Hall) contained three science labs/classrooms when built in 1962. These were adequate when the enrollment was 300-375 students, but when enrollment grew to over 450 and upwards (530 students today) more science facilities were desperately needed. In 2008 Ed donated a 209 acre farm in western Illinois valued at $1.1 million (which was also quickly sold). The

14 - Advancement

Marmion & Rosary swim team captains (l-r) Georgia Oros (RHS ’04), Kara Bavery (RHS ’04), Pat Carroll ’04 and Luke Herlehy ’04 present flowers to donors Ed ’50 and Vivienne Regole at the Blessing and Dedication of the Regole Natatorium on December 21, 2003.

decision was made to utilize the entire top floor of Yender Hall for science facilities. Construction took place over two summers, at a cost of $2.5 million. The Regole Science Center was dedicated in September 2010.

A primary goal of the Campaign for Marmion: Honor the Past and Shape the Future (2000–2008) was the construction of an allpurpose Field House. In order to construct this new building, major infrastructure work was needed: roads and parking, storm sewer drainage, and electrical and water service. This infrastructure work required a realignment and reconstruction of the playing fields. This work was completed at a cost of over $5 million.

Gertrude Regole made a $3 million commitment in 2002 for the construction of the Field House, payable from her Trust Fund over ten years. Unfortunately, she never lived to see it completed; Gertrude died in July 2005.

Her son Ed added his own generous commitment of another $3 million, payable over ten years. With these Regole gifts and many other Campaign commitments, construction was ready to begin in 2008—when the bottom fell out of the economy!

Finally, with finances in place, construction of the Field House began in 2010. The cost was $5.8 million. In November 2012 the new building was dedicated and named the Regole Field House in honor of Gertrude and Maurice Regole, Sr. and Edward ‘50 and Vivienne Regole.

The Regole family also endowed two scholarship funds to help future students in need of financial assistance to attend Marmion: the John Regole ’63 Memorial Scholarship and the Maurice Regole, Jr. ’52 Memorial Scholarship.

When asked, “Why Marmion?” Ed said, “It’s my school— our school—and I wanted these buildings to be our family legacy. Marmion was good to us, and we wanted to be good to Marmion.” And indeed they have been “good to Marmion”!

New Faces on the Advancement Team by: Kathleen Hausmann, Executive Director of Advancement

The Advancement team welcomed two new faces to the fold in recent months.

Jennifer Patel joined the team at the beginning of January as our new Advancement Administrative Assistant. She will serve as the front line ambassador for the office and will oversee the management of the advancement database and our gift acknowledgement processes.

Jennifer comes to Marmion from Club Automation where she was a project manager responsible for the implementation of software at fitness and recreational centers across the country. Prior to that, she and her husband owned several small businesses including a Jimmy John’s franchise and four Wine and Spirit stores.

Jennifer brings a wide range of experience in working across a variety of database platforms, which will be an enormous asset to our team and to Marmion. She also has a degree in Accounting from Hope College. Jennifer and her husband

Mukesh live in St. Charles and have two children including their son Deven, who is a freshman at Marmion.

The team also welcomed its first Social Media & Marketing Intern, Robbie Dzierzanowski ’20, over the Winter break. Robbie attends Xavier University in Cincinnati and is pursuing a degree in communication studies. He interned during his winter break (Nov., Dec. and Jan), and performed a variety of tasks.

These included managing our social media handles and posts, evaluating the “behind the scenes” analytics of our social media sites, and editing and condensing some of our marmion.org webpages. Robbie is also the creator of “Fun Fact Friday,” a social media initiative that shares interesting facts and photos from Marmion’s history. Although Robbie has now returned to school, he is continuing to work a few hours a week for us on special projects and “Fun Fact Fridays” while continuing to earn college credit.

The BIG GIVE - May 19-20, 2021

May 19-20, 2021

by: Kathleen Hausmann, Executive Director of Advancement

The impact of the COVID-19 virus continues to affect the ability of many families to send their sons to Marmion. YOU can make a BIG difference during the BIG GIVE, our online/social media fundraiser.

Our goal this year is to raise $100,000!

All proceeds from The BIG GIVE will support our Guardian Angel Fund, which will provide financial aid to current and future families who are seeking the unique experience that Marmion offers.

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Mark your calendars for May 19-20, 2021 and watch your email and social media for more details! Don’t want to wait until May? You can make your BIG GIVE donation online at any time: www.marmion.org/biggive.

CARES Act Reminder Gifts Eligible for $600 in Deductions

The CARES Act extends for 2021 the charitable deduction for those taking the Standard Deduction, that is, non-itemizers. An individual can deduct up to $300; a married couple filing jointly can deduct up to $600; and they can still take the Standard Deduction.

Advancement - 15

by Kathleen Hausmann, Executive Director of Advancement The tentative date for this year’s Salute to Youth is Thursday, June 24, 2021.

All are invited to share in an evening of elegance and friendship at the 58th Annual Salute to Youth on Thursday, June 24, 2021 at Drury Lane in Oakbrook Terrace. Salute to Youth is a unique fundraising benefit that celebrates the senior students for their accomplishments and potential. All proceeds from Salute to Youth benefit the Academy’s educational programs.

This memorable event includes: premium open bar, a gourmet meal with dinner wine, the presentation of the Guard & Court of Honor, and dancing to live music.

This year’s Salute to Youth Honorees: Abbey Affiliates: This honorary affiliate membership recognizes outstanding Catholic gentlemen who have a long and loyal association with Marmion. Two men who exemplify the legacy of the Marmion Brotherhood will be honored with Affiliate Membership with the monks of Marmion Abbey: • +Thomas Leuer ’58 - posthumous • Thomas Streit ’58 St. Scholastica Awardees: The St. Scholastica Award honors women who have led exemplary Catholic lives in service to God and humanity, and have had a long association with the monks of Marmion Abbey and their apostolates. Three well deserving women will receive this award: • +Marge Bryan - posthumous • Dr. Marie-Claude Rigaud • Madelyn Weed Additional details including ticket and sponsorship information will be available soon. Please watch your email for more information or visit marmion.org/salute.

We hope to see you in June!

Bryan

Leuer

Streit

Rigaud

Weed

Attention Recent Marmion Graduates:

A Social Media & Marketing Internship is available exclusively to you!

Be part of a fast-paced, energetic, collaborative team that values your perspective and provides the hands-on experience you are seeking! Marmion’s Advancement Office is looking for college students interested in a for-credit social media/marketing internship. Internships will be offered several times throughout the year and possibly to more than one student a semester.

Under the direction of the Creative Director, you will assist in the management of our social media accounts, track social media analytics to gauge the success of campaigns, build a strategy to engage younger alumni, create press releases, photograph events, edit photos for social media, and help fine-tune our customer experiences on social media platforms and internal processes.

Please visit www.marmion.org/intern for the full position description and application instructions.

16 - Advancement

by Bill Fox ’74, Director of Alumni and Constituent Relations As the weather improves and COVID restrictions begin to ease, we want to update you on our event plans for the rest of this year. One thing to always to keep in mind though is that planning remains fluid due to the virus, vaccinations, and our Public Health authorities’ guidelines.

ANNUAL STEAK FRY/LOBSTER BOIL AND BIG TICKET RAFFLE

Our Annual Steak Fry/Lobster Boil will be held on Friday, June 4 on Marmion’s campus. As always, the event will feature a complete steak or lobster dinner along with several beverage options. We’re planning to expand our outdoor dining space this year and increasing social distancing inside. We’ll draw our BIG TICKET Raffle winners live at the event. There will also be a silent auction as well as a few other surprises. Please join us to celebrate summer and enjoy the fellowship of many Marmion friends and alumni! Purchase your dinner tickets and BIG TICKET Raffle tickets online at marmion.org/steakfry.

2021 CADET CLASSIC GOLF OUTING

REUNION WEEKEND

We are planning on in-person events for our Reunion Weekend 2021, June 4-5. This year we’ll celebrate all of our classes from years ending in “1” and “6”, along with those ending in “0” and “5” due to last year’s event cancellations.

Our “milestone” class years are those celebrating their 60, 50, 25, 20, 10 and 5 year graduation anniversaries. Members of those classes will receive a postcard outlining the reunion events. Members of the classes of 1971, 1970, and older are invited to our Pre-Reunion Cocktail Party on Friday, June 4, and will receive discounted Steak Fry/Lobster Boil tickets.

All the classes outlined above are welcome to attend our Reunion Celebration events on Saturday, June 5. You can learn more about those events and register at marmion.org/reunion.

One last note, if you’re planning on attending this year’s events in person, PLEASE take the time to register in advance. As you can imagine, this year is proving to be quite challenging when planning events from a space and food and beverage perspective.

This year’s Cadet Classic Golf Outing will again take place at Bliss Creek Golf Club in Sugar Grove on Friday, July 16.

Last year’s event was postponed to the fall, and we’re excited to be back in July! This event features a fun-filled day of golf activities and great raffles. Lunch is provided before your round. End the day with a delicious steak dinner with all the fixings. More information will be available soon at marmion. org/cadetclassic. As always, golfers and sponsors are welcome.

We hope to see you for a great day of golf with many friends and alumni of Marmion in July!

MARMION CHRISTMAS CRAFT SHOW

The Annual Christmas Craft Show will be held on our campus on Saturday, November 27 and Sunday, November 28. This year’s show might look a little different to veteran shoppers as we’ll be expanding the aisles throughout the show. Rest assured however, there will be plenty of great craft items from over 100 exhibitors. We’re still in the process of accepting applications. Visit marmion.org/crafter for information on becoming a crafter/vendor in this year’s Marmion Christmas Craft Show.

38 th Annual

Cadet Classic

G LF Outing JULY 16TH 2021

Save the Date, assemble your foursome, and join us on July 16th

BLISS CREEK GOLF COURSE

1 Golfview Road, Sugar Grove, IL

11:30 AM Lunch | 1:00 PM Shotgun Start | Register online: marmion.org/cadetclassic

Alumni - 17

NEW! Legacy Spotlight: John Khin ’82 Over 40% of our current student enrollment has a legacy connection to Marmion. This connection, made from father to son, grandfather to grandson, uncle to nephew, etc., shows the pride our alumni feel toward their alma mater. Their desire to share the Marmion experience with their family reflects how much they were impacted by their own time at Marmion.

The following is an exerpt of John Khin’s ’82 reflections on “Why Marmion?” You can read this article in its entirety online at: www.marmion.org/legacy.

In the Fall of 1978, my parents dropped me off at Marmion Military Academy to begin freshman year...the start of a journey I could not have imagined. As a scrawny and timid 14-year-old boy, I was seriously doubting the wisdom of attending an all-boys’ military, religious boarding school.

What were my parents thinking? What was I thinking?

Like many freshman Cadets, I avoided the attention of the upperclassmen, the Army instructors, and the Benedictine monks. As time went on, I felt more comfortable as I made friends, sharing the challenges and anxieties, and the antics and banter understood only by teenage boys. Eventually, these friendships grew into bonds of brotherhood at Marmion.

of Defense in law enforcement and criminal investigations, I had reached the pinnacle of my career.

In 2017, while living near Atlanta, GA, my family was quite dissatisfied with educational options for our sons. With my pending retirement, we realized we could live anywhere, so we decided that Marmion was the obvious choice for our boys. Within a few months, we uprooted ourselves from our comfortable life in Georgia and moved to Illinois. Charlie entered Marmion in 2018, and recently, our youngest son, Alex, was accepted and will start as a freshman this Fall.

Reflecting back on my journey nearly 40 years after graduating from Marmion, I realize that so many positive factors in my life – making good decisions, exercising good discipline and sound judgment, being an effective leader and loyal, patriotic American citizen – were all forged into my character by the Marmion experience. From rigorous academics, to military discipline, and strong faith – Marmion was largely responsible for who I am today. It is my privilege and honor to now entrust to Marmion the awesome responsibility of educating and nurturing my sons and the next generation of Marmion Men.

The following year, my younger brother, Paul, also entered Marmion in the Class of 1983. We learned that Marmion was unique and special in many ways – as a community and a brotherhood. We grew and thrived in this environment.

By my senior year, I had grown into a mature, disciplined young man ready to face the world.

Fast forward to after college ... I joined the U.S. Army and began an exciting and fulfilling profession in law enforcement, which led me to a highly successful career as a Special Agent with the Defense Criminal Investigative Service. After serving over 30 years in the U.S. Department

18 - Alumni

John Khin ’82 with his sons Alex ’25 (left) and Charlie ‘22

Purchase your tickets today! www.marmion.org/raffle

Marmion Alumni Class Alumni News Virtual & Notes Choir .............................................

by Cameron Merker ’19 Alumni Class News & Notes appear in the December and April issues of the Marmion Magazine. Email news and photos to: trios@marmion.org or complete the form at marmion.org/update.

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YEARS

Save the Dates: June 4-5, 2021 Reunion Weekend 2021

Class of 1940 & 1941

All members of the Classes of 1940 & 1941 are invited to our Reunion Weekend 2021. Additional details and registration are available at www.marmion.org/reunion.

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Save the Dates: June 4-5, 2021 Reunion Weekend 2021

Class of 1945 & 1946

All members of the Classes of 1945 & 1946 are invited to our Reunion Weekend 2021. Additional details and registration are available at www.marmion.org/reunion.

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Jim Abbott ’61 is living now in Rogers, AR. He moved this past year to be closer to his daughter and son-in-law.

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Save the Dates: June 4-5, 2021 Reunion Weekend 2021

Class of 1955 & 1956

All members of the Classes of 1955 & 1956 are invited to our Reunion Weekend 2021. Additional details and registration are available at www.marmion.org/reunion.

Class of 1968

Save the Dates: June 4-5, 2021 Reunion Weekend 2021

Class of 1950 & 1951

All members of the Classes of 1950 & 1951 are invited to our Reunion Weekend 2021. Additional details and registration are available at www.marmion.org/reunion.

Class of 1953 Bernie and Pat Deutsch of St. Charles celebrated their 65th Wedding Anniversary on January 14, 2021.

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Save the Dates: June 4-5, 2021 Reunion Weekend 2021

Class of 1955 & 1956

All members of the Classes of 1955 & 1956 are invited to our Reunion Weekend 2021. Additional details and registration are available at www.marmion.org/reunion.

Class of 1959 Bob and Dee Swickert moved permanently to Punta Gorda, FL after selling their long-time family business, Fox Valley Iron and Metal, Inc. Their son Bob ’88, wife Kari and family live nearby, along with their daughter Julia.

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YEARS

Save the Dates: June 4-5, 2021 Reunion Weekend 2021

Class of 1960 & 1961

All members of the Classes of 1960 & 1961 are invited to our Reunion Weekend 2021. Additional details and registration are available at www.marmion.org/reunion.

Ed Tybor ’68 hosted Joe Parisi ’71 and Don Olsen ’71 for a round of golf at Starfire Golf Club in Scottsdale, AZ on January 19, 2021.

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YEARS

Save the Dates: June 4-5, 2021 Reunion Weekend 2021

Class of 1970 & 1971

All members of the Classes of 1970 & 1971 are invited to our Reunion Weekend 2021. Additional details and registration are available at www.marmion.org/reunion.

We are asking ALL members of the classes of 1970 and 1971 to complete a Jubilee Booklet Questionnaire online at marmion.org/jubilee as soon as possible. Please complete this questionnaire even if you cannot attend (or are not sure if you will be able to attend) this year’s Reunion.

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Save the Dates: June 4-5, 2021 Reunion Weekend 2021

Class of 1975 & 1976

All members of the Classes of 1975 & 1976 are invited to our Reunion Weekend 2021. Additional details and registration are available at www.marmion.org/reunion.

Alumni Class Notes - 19

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Save the Dates: June 4-5, 2021 Reunion Weekend 2021

Class of 1980 & 1981

YEARS

Save the Dates: June 4-5, 2021 Reunion Weekend 2021

Class of 1990 & 1991

All members of the Classes of 1980 & 1981 are invited to our Reunion Weekend 2021. Additional details and registration are available at www.marmion.org/reunion.

All members of the Classes of 1990 & 1991 are invited to our Reunion Weekend 2021. Additional details and registration are available at www.marmion.org/reunion.

Class of 1983

Class of 1993 Victor Hawks wrote, coproduced, and acted in the movie Be the Light, released in February 2020. The movie is now available on DVD and VOD (Video On Demand).

Visit bethelightmovie.com for details.

Class of 1994 The Ogden Camerata Orchestra premiered Alfonso Tenreiro’s Violin Concerto in March of 2021. He is composing a Harp Concerto for the same orchestra which will premier in May of 2021. As a side note, Alfonso remembers how Dr. Hollinger’s Creative Writing class has always served as a guide in his symphonic and chamber writing.

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Save the Dates: June 4-5, 2021 Reunion Weekend 2021

Class of 1985 & 1986

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All members of the Classes of 1985 & 1986 are invited to our Reunion Weekend 2021. Additional details and registration are available at www.marmion.org/reunion.

YEARS

Dan and Jan Rios of Elburn welcomed their fourth child, Emil Maximilian Kai Rios on January 13, 2021. Emil joins big sisters, Maria (18), Sofia (17), and Annalise (13), and is the grandson of Sal ’61 and Susan Rios.

Save the Dates: June 4-5, 2021 Reunion Weekend 2021

Class of 1995 & 1996

All members of the Classes of 1995 & 1996 are invited to our Reunion Weekend 2021. Additional details and registration are available at www.marmion.org/reunion.

All are invited to a fun evening of dinner, drinks, Silent Auction, BIG TICKET raffl e, and more!

FRY

BOIL

STEAK LOBSTER $40 FRIDAY

per dinner Dinner includes your choice of steak or lobster, sides, dessert and drinks ALL evening.

20 - Alumni Class Notes

JUNE 4, 2021 6:30 PM: Doors Open | 7:00-8:30 PM: Dinner 9:30 PM: BIG TICKET drawing

Purchase tickets online at: marmion.org/steakfry

Alumni at Fort Rucker, AL MAJ Tom Fox, USA ‘03 is training in the AH-64E Apache. His former aircraft, the OH-58D Kiowa Warrior, is no longer in service in the Army fleet.

Tom and family are heading to Camp Humphreys, South Korea this summer.

1LT Trevor Jones, USA ‘15 recently completed the AH-64E Apache course and headed to Wheeler Army Airfield and 2-6 CAV in Hawaii.

(February 2021, left to right) 2LT Jack Saloga ‘16, WO1 Jake Miller ‘16, MAJ Tom Fox ‘03, and 1LT Trevor Jones ‘15 gathered at Fort Rucker’s Army Aviation Museum in front of an AH-1 Cobra that flew in Vietnam. They’re all at different stages of Army flight

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training at Fort Rucker, AL and took advantage of the rare, and perhaps unprecedented, concentration of Marmion alumni at the Army’s flight school.

Save the Dates: June 4-5, 2021 Reunion Weekend 2021

Class of 2000 & 2001

All members of the Classes of 2000 & 2001 are invited to our Reunion Weekend 2021. Additional details and registration are available at www.marmion.org/reunion.

Class of 2003

PJ and Alicia (RHS ’03) DeKing welcomed their 3rd daughter, Irelynn Renee DeKing on June 30, 2020.

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YEARS

WO1 Jake Miller, USA ‘16 is training in the UH-60 Blackhawk and headed to Fort Hood, TX. He is hoping to join a Medevac unit, but does not yet know if that will come through.

2LT Jack Saloga, USA ‘16 is just getting started in the training pipeline so he does not yet know what he will fly or where he will go.

Save the Dates: June 4-5, 2021 Reunion Weekend 2021

Class of 2005 & 2006

All members of the Classes of 2005 & 2006 are invited to our Reunion Weekend 2021. Additional details and registration are available at www.marmion.org/reunion.

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YEARS

Save the Dates: June 4-5, 2021 Reunion Weekend 2021

Class of 2010 & 2011

All members of the Classes of 2010 & 2011 are invited to our Reunion Weekend 2021. Additional details and registration are available at www.marmion.org/reunion.

Class of 2012 Class of 2004

Brian and Christina Greviskes welcomed their daughter, Maria on January 13, 2021. Maria is the granddaughter of Paul ’68 and Angie Greviskes.

Zach and Josie McNally welcomed their son, Thomas on July 31, 2020.

He was baptized at Holy Cross Catholic Church on December 27, 2020.

Michael Shares ’12 and wife Hannah Shares are Godparents.

Alumni Class Notes - 21

Jake Cornish ’15 - Space Mission Manager After graduating with a bachelor’s degree in Spaceflight operations from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Jake Cornish ‘15 started his career as a Mission Manager with a commercial space company called Nanoracks in 2019. His primary role is to oversee the process of launching and deploying small satellites off the International Space Station (ISS) and other launch vehicles. During his time with Nanoracks, he has launched and deployed 40 unique small satellites ranging from the size of a softball to a mini fridge. Most recently, he deployed 9 satellites on SpaceX’s record-breaking Transporter-1 mission that hosted the most satellites ever deployed from a single rocket.

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YEARS

Save the Dates: June 4-5, 2021 Reunion Weekend 2021

Class of 2015 & 2016

All members of the Classes of 2015 & 2016 are invited to our Reunion Weekend 2021. Additional details and registration are available at www.marmion.org/reunion.

Mark Patrick Powell ’16 is a graduate of Marquette University’s Opus College of Engineering with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering and a Minor in Military Science. On December 18, 2020, he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Army, Transportation Corps. Patrick will attend the Transportation Basic Officer Leaders Course at Fort Lee, VA.

On a daily basis, he interfaces with NASA, Northrop Grumman, SpaceX, and loads of Nanoracks customers across the globe. When asked what his favorite part of his career is, he stated, “Working with an incredible team who share the same passion of providing easy access to space. From helping middle schoolers perform microgravity research to aiding government customers in creating groundbreaking discoveries, I get to see how important the final frontier is at every level.”

Jake plans to continue his work with satellite customers but would eventually like to work on bigger and bigger projects … and maybe one day go to space himself.

Class of 2019

Christian Henkel (left) was awarded a 3-year Air Force ROTC scholarship.

Christian is a sophomore in the Parks College of Engineering, Aviation and Technology at St. Louis University, St. Louis, MO, and a member of Air Force ROTC Detachment 207.

This fall Christian was also awarded the Scott Air Force Base Daedalian Scholarship and the American Legion Scholastic Excellence Award.

Class of 2020

Robbie Dzierzanowski is currently working as a Social Media/Marketing intern for the Marmion Advancement Office (see page 11).

Class of 2017

Kyle McCullough is a rising professional at Texas Christian University, and is part of a coaching cohort that propels the course titled Consultative Selling. Kyle was featured in a video on TCU Sales Center LinkedIn page highlighting his success in their sales program.

22 - Alumni Class Notes

Email your family, education, career and address updates to Terri Rios (trios@marmion.org) or fill out the update form online at:

marmion.org/update

Alumni Taps +Raymond Feltes ’43 of Aurora; brother of +Robert ’42, +Charles ’49, Norbert ’51 and +Wilbert ’51; January 4, 2021 +Richard Kingsbury ’49 of Montgomery; brother of +Robert ’41; grandfather of Matt Prochaska ’04; November 25, 2020 +Joseph Allegretti ’50 of Sugar Grove; grandfather of Nicholas ’05; November 2020 +Lawrence Sieradski ’51 of Heber Springs, AR; brother of +Leonard ’55, Allan ’58, and Kenneth ’62; October 9, 2020 +M. Jeffrey Huetter ’52 of Grosse Pointe, MI; December 8, 2020 + John Rocha, Jr. ‘53 of La Mirada, CA; December 15, 2020 +Ronald French ’54 of Itasca; January 12, 2020 +Dr. Roderick (Rory) Malone ’54 of Cincinnati; July 10, 2020 +John Maloney, III ’55 of Morton Grove; December 13, 2020

.................................. +Jim Nass, Jr. ’56 of Batavia; November 24, 2020 +James Fidler ’58 of Maple Park; brother of Daniel ’65; March 6, 2021 +Ed Aister ’59 of Yorkville; Abbot Marmion Society Life Member; March 1, 2021 (see pg. 3) +Nicholas Steinmetz ’59 of Sacramento, CA; January 17, 2021 +Ralph Gebes ’60 of Philip, SD; December 24, 2020 +Thomas H. Morris ’61 of Mason City, IL; January 4, 2020 +Charles Patterson ’62 of Muncie, IN; former Br. Jude of the Abbey in Temporary Vows in mid-1960s; May 27, 2020 +Richard Cibulskis ’64 of Batavia; Abbot Marmion Society Life Member; father of Daniel ’93 and David ’94; grandfather of Matt Felber ’19, Nicholas Cibulskis ’24, and Ian Roskuszka ’24; brother of +Donald ’59, John ’70 and Ronald ’71; January 29, 2021

+Tom Leuer ’58 of Aurora died on February 18, 2021. Tom is the father of Michael ’81, James ’82, Mark ’84, John ’85, and Paul ’90; the grandfather of Matthew ’19 and Jack ’21; the brother of +Edward ’48 and Joseph ’60. Tom was an Active Trustee (since 1994, one of the longest tenures), and a former Board chairperson (2008-2010). Tom was a long-time member of the Alumni Board of Directors, and a past chairman. He received the Alumni Centurion Award in 1994 for his career accomplishments and his exceptional volunteer work for Marmion. Tom was president/owner of Life Touch Photography of North Aurora, the largest school photography firm in the Central States. +Ronald Evans ’68 of Venice, FL; brother of Jim ’61; November 22, 2020 +David Fors ’69 of DeKalb; January 21, 2021 +Dr. Robert Ingraham ’69 of Wheaton; father of Dr. Benjamin ’05; uncle of Christopher May ’98; February 22, 2021 +Terrence Tybor, Sr. ’71 of Orland Park; father of Terrence (TJ) ’00; brother of Edward ’68; uncle of Alex ’14, Christian ’18 and Jack ’20 Altner; November 28, 2020 +Michael Dailey ’72 of Lakeview, MN;

In Loving Memory ................... +Rose Ahasic of Batavia; mother of Alan ’68; February 4, 2021 +Mary Ellen Allegretti of Sugar Grove; wife of Joseph ’50; grandmother of Nicholas ’05; May 2019 +Renata Beer of Warrenville; mother of Kersen ’82; December 26, 2020 +Mary Ellen Connolly of Aurora; Abbey Oblate; December 17, 2020 +William E. Conroy of Madison, WI; Abbot Marmion Society Life Member; father of +William V. Conroy ’69; December 31, 2020 +Rachel “Rae” Covelli of Sun City, AZ; wife of +Dr. Orlando ’40; December 23, 2020 +Marilyn Hess of Aurora; Canterbury Society Member; wife of +Carl ’45; September 28, 2020 +Marilou Hutter of Elburn; grandmother of Brad ’04; December 18, 2020 +Stephen Kennedy of Seattle, WA; son of P.J. ’52; nephew of Timothy ’60; November 12, 2020 +Hal Lieser of Aurora; father of Guy ’76; December 14, 2020

+Sylvia Machulak of River Hills, WI; Abbot Marmion Society Life Member; wife of Life Trustee +Edward Machulak, Sr.; mother of Edward ’70 and John ’71; January 15, 2021

+Teresa Nila of Aurora; mother of Patrick ’76, Steven ’78 and Jeffrey ’83; on January 21, 2021 +Michael Olino of Lockport; brother of Matthew ’94; December 16, 2020 +Shirley Parr of Aurora; grandmother of Anthony Wegman ’15; November 18, 2020 +Joan Romanus of Frankfort, IL; Abbot Marmion Society Life Member; mother of of John ’90; February 15, 2020 +Dr. Raymond Romanus of Frankfort, IL; Abbot Marmion Society Life Member; father of John ’90; November 10, 2020

+Helmut “Hal” Seifert ’73 of Oro Valley, AZ; teacher and basketball coach in 2000s; February 13, 2021 +Donald Arndt III ’84 of Washington, DC; Abbot Marmion Society Life Member; son of +Donald, Jr. ’58; brother of Todd ’88; January 28, 2021 +Daniel Hirsch ’03 of DeKalb; brother of Colin ’09; Dec. 13, 2020 +Richard Logan (“R. Logan”) Gulling ’05 of Longmont, CO; December 5, 2020 +Michael Fritz of Geneva died on November 20, 2020. Michael is the brother of Carl ’84, Timothy ’88, and Matthew ’94 and uncle of Wyatt ’24.

Michael received the “#1 Fan Honor” in 1993. His brother Tim says of that day, “The smile on my brother’s face was priceless, by far one his favorite days. He was always there for us and always sounding off in his own special way to let us know he loved us!” Michael also received an honorary Marmion diploma in 1998.

+Juan Maria Liz of Los Cacaos de Tamboril, Dominican Republic; grandfather of Carlos ’20 and Juan ’25 Liz; January 5, 2021

+Claire McIntosh of Bloomfield Hills, MI; mother of Christopher ’90; January 21, 2021

brother of +John ’69, Kevin ’76 and James ’78; March 7, 2021

Michael pictured with former Athletic Director +Neal Fichtel ’45 and +Leonel and Virginia Fritz, his parents (1993).

+Nancy Rowley of Leawood, KS; wife of Todd ’82; sister-in-law of Steve ’83; aunt of Collin ’11; on January 10, 2021 +Miriam Schaefers of Cupertino, CA; wife of Joseph ’57; sister of David, Sr. ’63 and Paul ’71 Streit; daughter-in-law of +Joseph ’32; sister-in-law of Gerald ’59 and Richard ’62; February 25, 2021 +Theresa Schaffner of Aurora; wife of +Robert ’42; January 1, 2021 +Mark Semmler of Hattiesburg, MS; father of Russ ’10; brother-in-law of +Helmut Seifert ’73, uncle of Adam ’16 and Ethan ’21 Prosser; December 7, 2020

+Dona Seppelfrick-Spencer of Aurora; wife of +Dale Seppelfrick ’56; December 2, 2020 +Adam Seifert of Aurora; father of +Helmut ’73; February 10, 2021 +Joan Walt of Plainfield; wife of +Richard Walt ’48; December 24, 2020 +Tom Weberg of Geneva; father of Fr. Paul Weberg, OSB; November 20, 2020 +R. Alex Westhoff of St. Charles, IL; father of Kurt ’89; November 27, 2020

Alumni Taps/In Loving Memory - 23

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