Pius Connections - Spring 2012

PiusConnections

volume 12 • spring 2012 • www.piusx.net

of n e e u Q

hearts A publication for Alumni, Parents & Friends of Pius X High School

pius connections content Pius X High School

6000 A Street, Lincoln, Nebraska 68510 402.488.0931 • 402.488.1061 fax www.piusx.net Superintendent Father James Meysenburg Principal Tom Korta Assistant Principal Greg Lesiak

CONTENTS

pius values Queen of Hearts.....................................4 academic success.................................10 athletic highlights.................................11

Guidance Director Jan Frayser

pius essentials......................................12

Pius X Foundation

faculty notes Four Pius X Teachers Retire..................13 So We Will Never Forget: Pius X Educators Explore the Holocaust..........14

402.488.1046 • 402.488.1061 fax http://foundation.piusx.net Director of Development Michelle Birkel Foundation Staff Deb Hoge • Amy Riley • Sophia Werning BOLT Director Deb Schulte

Pius X Alumni ~ Cathedral High Alumni 402.488.0931 • 402.488.1061 fax http://alumni.piusx.net Alumni Director Kristin (Edwards) Heath ’91

Current Enrollment

1,055 – Catholic: 99% • Other: 1%

Mission Statement

Restore All Things in Christ We are dedicated to a total education that is Christ-centered by integrating Catholic values in all areas of life and providing academic preparation of the highest quality in a disciplined environment.

Change of Address To notify the school/Foundation of address changes or personal updates by filling out the on-line form at http://alumni.piusx.net/ updateform.asp or by contacting the Foundation at 402.488.1046.

Pius Connections Published semi-annually in May and November for alumni, parents and friends of Pius X High School. If you would like additional copies or to be removed from our mailing list, please contact the Foundation office.

Thank You Special thanks to the talented photographers of the 2011-12 Pius X Yearbook staff who contribute to this publication: Sponsor Sandi Sullivan, Zachary Bell, Alexa Birkel, Chloe Johnson, Johnathon Knobbe, Kathryn Krick, Daniel LeDuc, Mary Litt, Michaela Maguire, Abby McClure, Drew Miller, Tiffany Nagel, Lawrence Nguyen, Brittany Pollock, Abigail Schoening, Mary Sievert, Mary Sullivan, Mikayla Tremain, Brittany Ullman, and Alison Vazquez.

We extend a grateful thank you to Charlie Calhoun & Jacob North Companies for their generous donation toward this publication.

empowering students............................13 On the cover –

Kathryn Slattery had an amazing senior year going from a double heart and liver transplant to Prom Queen. She is pictured with Prom King John Knobbe and before surgery with friends at UNMC in Omaha.

building a strong foundation Advancement Letter.............................15 2011-12 Scholarship Recipients...........16 Scholarships Make Catholic Education Possible for Many Families...................17 Al and Dorothy Ballweg Protect Catholic Education, Give Everlasting Gift............................18 New Computer Monitors.....................18 Visitor Bleachers to be Upgraded at Aldrich Field....................................19 Improvements being made to Weight, Wrestling and Locker Rooms...............19

alumni today March Madness - Thunderbolt Style.....21 A Family Tradition...............................22 Pius X to host All Honor Year Reunion, Establish Golden Thunderbolt Club.....24 Class Reunion Schedule.......................24 Bits & Pieces........................................25 In Remembrance..................................26 Births...................................................27 Marriages.............................................28

alumni today Former Pius X Students become College Team Working on Pluto Study.............20

bolt Kings, Queens, Bishops...BOLT...........31

Pius X High School Budget – The 2012-2013 Pius X High School budget is $5.723 million, a 3.9% increase over last year.

Parish Support – Parish assessments are provided by the 14 parishes of the Lincoln Deanery and four parishes from outside the deanery. Parish assessment for the 2012-2013 school year make up 42.5% of the operating budget.

1.4% 2.2% 1.4% 2.2% 4.1%

Parish Assessments

4.1% 9.5%

Parish Assessments

9.5%

Tuition & Fees 42.5%

9.8%

42.5%

9.8%

Tuition & Fees

Donations/Grants

Donations/Grants Foundation/Trusts

Foundation/Trusts

Activities/BOLT Fundraiser

Activities/BOLT Fundraiser

Educational Techn.

Initiative

30.5%

30.5%

Revenue Source

Parish Assessments Tuition & Fees Donations/Grants Foundation/Trusts Activities/BOLT Fund Raiser Educational Tech. Initiative Other Revenue

Total

%

42.5% 30.5% 9.8% 9.5% 4.1% 2.2% 1.4%

100%

Educational Techn.

Initiative

Amount

$2,434,892 $1,743,000 $561,000 $545,000 $237,175 $125,000 $77,310

$5,723,377

pius welcome

We

welcome our 233 graduates to the rank of alumni. Once again, I am amazed by our incredible students! These graduates excelled in countless ways and learned how to be positive contributing Catholics in society. They represented themselves, Pius X and their families very well. I pray they will do well in life and always stay close to our Lord.

We also congratulate four teachers who are retiring from Pius X High School. Mrs. Connie Weir retires after 20 years of teaching Spanish; after 18 years, Sr. Veronica Volkmer, M.S. retires from teaching and leading the theology department; Sally Burt taught for 15 years in the English department and is now retiring; and Dan Leuenberger retires following 5 years as a math teacher.

BOLT 2012, “Kings, Queens, Bishops...BOLT,” celebrated its 27th anniversary. This important and elegant fund-raising event benefits the students of Pius X and was an evening of joy and tremendous success, netting over $240,000. Of that, $140,000 will be used to continue to pay-off the $400,000 loan needed to build the new kitchen. The other $100,000 will be used by the school and Booster Club to renovate and maintain Pius X facilities. A special thanks to Deb Schulte and executive committee of BOLT for doing a fantastic job.

The first ever Give To Lincoln Day on May 17th was a great success for Pius X, raising over $95,000 to help renovate our chemistry labs. Over $17,000 in matching grants were given to Pius X because so many people supported our efforts that day.

Thanks to Michelle Birkel and the Foundation staff for promoting that effort.

The Strategic Planning process is in the final stages of the information-gathering phase. This phase has been thorough, enlightening and well worth the time and effort involved. Dozens of Pius X stakeholders participated in focus group sessions which lasted 90 minutes or more. They gave up their lunch hours and evenings to comment on a variety of topics: what Pius is doing well, where we can grow and improve, and what people want our school to accomplish over the next five to 10 years.

These focus groups included people representing parents of current and former students, parents whose children transferred out of Pius X, Catholic parents who chose not to send their children to Pius X, alumni, priests who teach at Pius, pastors whose parishes support Pius, the Pius X Foundation Board, the Pius X Board of Advisers, faculty, staff, and students in each grade level.

Anne Steinhoff, the consultant who led the focus groups, characterized participants’ comments as “overwhelmingly positive.”

She said that even when people had criticism, they focused on how Pius can overcome the challenges and offered concrete suggestions for improvement.

Although comments and suggestions varied from group to group, Anne noted that every focus group emphasized the three areas: • Support for and pride in Pius X’s commitment to its mission, Catholic values and Christ-centered education; • The strong sense of family and community shared by those associated with Pius; and • Agreement on the school’s priorities: academic excellence, teacher quality and pay, functional facilities, financial viability, managing school growth, and maintaining a Christ-centered focus. (Many also believe the school would benefit from identifying best practices in each of these areas.)

Now that the focus group research is nearly concluded, our consultant will present her findings and preliminary conclusions to the Strategic Planning Steering Committee. Then, she will work with a small planning team to create the school’s vision and draft the strategic plan. Eventually, Anne and administration will solicit a final round of stakeholder input at a town hall-type meeting, during which participants will be invited to review and react to the draft plan.

Thank you for your input, prayer and support in making Pius X High School the great school that it is and in assisting us with planning for our future carefully and wisely. May your summer bring joyful times with family, relaxation and rejuvenation. Let us continue to pray for one another.

Sincerely Yours in Christ,

Father Jim Meysenburg, Superintendent

Kathryn Slattery, after receiving a heart/liver transplant, describes her recovery as one of five transplant surgeons, Dr. David Mercer, looks on. When news of Kathryn’s impending transplant reached Pius X, the entire school paused to share in a moment of silence and prayer. Soon after, students began to fill the school chapel. Kathryn and her family “could just feel that power of all of those prayers around us.” Picture courtesy of UNMC.

n e e u Q hearts of

by Sophia Werning

The Miraculous Journey of a Pius X Student from Transplant to Prom Queen

T

he first thing you notice is her smile.

When celebrating the remarkable young life of Pius X graduate Kathryn Slattery ’12, it is her outward joyfulness and deep inner faith in God’s providence that has inspired all who are privileged to know her.

On Jan. 11, 2012, just 17 days before her 18th birthday, Kathryn became an even greater inspiration throughout the state and nationwide by becoming the first combination heart and liver transplant recipient in the state of Nebraska.

The rare, monumental surgery, performed at University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) in Omaha, is one of only 6 or 7 of its kind ever performed on a patient younger than 20 years of age.

This was not the first event of what Kathryn’s mother Marilyn describes as “another extra little card” her daughter had been dealt since the day she was

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born. Her mother's understatement is reflective of the humble, faith-filled journey of a strong young lady who has captured the hearts of so many in the Pius X community and beyond.

A Determined Spirit Kathryn Helene Slattery was born on January 28, 1994, to Jim and Marilyn Slattery of Lincoln. She is the youngest of five children, including Anthony ’02, Justina ’03, Elisa ’06 and Mary ’08.

Kathryn’s health struggles began immediately following birth when she was diagnosed with a congenital heart defect called hypo plastic left heart syndrome.

The life-threatening condition necessitated that Kathryn undergo three openheart surgeries in her first two fragile years of life.

“I remember when Kathryn was born, we were all so excited,” Justina reflects on her sister’s strength of character that

was evident since birth. “Seeing her go through the surgeries as an infant was very difficult, but even then, she was such a strong person, defeating all of the odds.”

Among Justina’s early memories are taking Kathryn to their grade school, St. Peter, to “show off” her little sister.

“Growing up, we all adored her,” Justina says. “She has always been so mature for her age in terms of how she handled situations. For example, when she was younger and had anemia, the medicine she took made her face look swollen.

Never once did she complain. She would just shrug it off.”

The early surgeries to repair her heart allowed Kathryn to enjoy a relatively normal, active childhood. In addition to attending school at St. Peter grade school, she was able to participate in sports, dance and cheer leading. A joyful girl, she had no end of friends or admirers of her

I have had strong faith my entire life, but this has definitely strengthened it even more. I know this was a very big surgery, obviously, and God let me get through it with no complications when they were expecting so many. I’ve always believed in the power of prayer, but it really showed in this experience. ~Kathryn Slattery

Wearing her scar like a “badge of honor,” Kathryn was thrilled to first learn she had been cleared to attend Prom without a mask. Her example of faith and strength was evident as the room erupted into a standing ovation when she was named Queen. Photo courtesy of Pius X Yearbook Staff.

infectious smile. Despite her outward demeanor, however, a number of additional issues began to present greater challenges to her health as she approached her senior year of high school.

A Time for Hope “We have always known the heart transplant was in her future, but the surprise was the liver,” Marilyn explains.

When Kathryn was young, she developed hemolytic autoimmune anemia, a condition that causes one’s body to break down its red blood cells. During high school, Kathryn also began to develop pancreatitis. “That is when the liver started becoming an issue,” Marilyn explains.

In June of 2011, her doctor recommended removing her gallbladder. During this surgery, cirrhosis (deterioration of her liver) was evident. That fall, Kathryn started experiencing ascites, fluid building up in her abdomen.

On December 1, she called home from school to say she was not feeling well, and then began running a low grade fever.

She was admitted to Children’s Hospital in Omaha so infectious disease specialists could determine the cause. Kathryn

was placed on a powerful IV antibiotic get her on the list. They tested for everymaking her nauseous and causing vomitthing. It was a roller coaster.” ing. Despite the treatment, the fever of The fever that prompted her hospitalunknown origin remained. ization – and whose origin to this day “I could not eat and lost a lot of remains a mystery – finally broke. On weight,” Kathryn recalls.

January 5, after enduring days of someKathryn’s pediatrician since birth, times painful tests, Kathryn was placed Dr. Jeff David, had always erred on the on the waiting list for a transplant. side of cauJust five days later, tion. Since We were calm in knowing she and her family redoctors were ceived the remarkable God was taking care of still unable to news. determine the “We thought we were Kathryn, taking care of us, going cause of the in for a few days taking care of the doctors. to treat a fever,” Jim fever, she was transferred to says with astonishment.

We could just feel the UNMC by “One month later she ambulance on had a new heart and power of all of those December 20. liver. My head is still prayers around us.

It was durspinning.” ing this time that talk of a dual heart-liver transplant An Answer to Prayer became more urgent. Kathryn was growJustina and her sister Mary were working weaker, and her oxygen saturation ing at the family business, Art & Soul, levels worsened, making it more difficult when the phone rang with the news to breathe. about the organ donation.

“Once we were transferred to UNMC, “I answered the phones and heard it was full speed ahead.” Marilyn says. “It those wonderful words: ‘We have orwas appointment after appointment to gans!’”

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Immediately, they left work, picked up their sister Elisa and joined their brother and other family members in Omaha where they were prepping Kathryn for surgery.

Meanwhile at Pius X, Guidance Director Jan Frayser received the news and at 11:30 a.m. made the announcement over the school’s loudspeaker. The entire student body, faculty and staff learned together that an organ donor had been matched with Kathryn, and that she was going to be wheeled into surgery that afternoon for the historic procedure.

The entire school paused to share in a moment of silence and prayer. Soon after, a students began to fill the school chapel.

Word quickly spread among Pius families to offer up prayers for Kathryn.

Several of her closest friends dropped everything and drove to Omaha to see her once more before her surgery.

“We knew that the entire Pius X family – the entire Catholic community – was praying for us,” Justina recalls. “There is no doubt in my mind how strong the

community is, and I’ve seen it in other situations. We all just come together.”

A team of five surgeons were assembled – two heart and three liver specialists – along with more than a dozen medical specialists to perform the first-ever attempt at the dual transplant at their hospital.

Among the medical team were cardiac surgeons John Um, MD and Jim Hammel, MD; and liver transplant surgeons Jean Botha, MD; Wendy Grant, MD; and David Mercer, MD, PhD. A coordinated plan was worked out for the surgery, and alternate plans were determined in the event complications would develop.

“The biggest concern was bleeding. But the surgery went extremely smoothly and there were no surprises,” Marilyn recalls.

The heart transplant occurred first, and then was left to rest a while to make sure it was functioning properly. After that, the liver surgeons moved in. The entire procedure took about 14 hours to complete.

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She’s in God’s Hands Just before Kathryn was wheeled into surgery, Marilyn said there were a few tears shed, but for the most part, it was a celebratory feeling that her daughter would be receiving healthy organs and a new lease on life. For her parents and loved ones, it was Kathryn who helped them stay strong.

“Her positive outlook was just amazing. Her attitude and faith were what helped us overcome some of the fears,” her father Jim remembers. “I said to myself: She’s in God’s hands.”

“Kathryn had such a wonderful attitude and so much hope that it helped us get past the thought that it wouldn’t be okay,” Marilyn adds.

Kathryn’s parents also knew that their daughter’s quality of life was quickly deteriorating – she was in end stage heart and liver disease – so they were convinced this was the right course.

“We all had so much faith in the doctors,” Marilyn says of the medical team at UNMC. “They were so positive and confident in one another that it put us at ease. Also, talking to other transplant recipients, including two young transplant patients that looked completely healthy gave us courage.”

“During the surgery, we had more than 20 people in the waiting room,” Justina adds. “You would think we would be extremely nervous – and yes, the wait was difficult – but there was an overwhelming sense of calm. We were calm in knowing God was taking care of Kathryn, taking care of us, taking care of the doctors. We could just feel that power of all of those prayers around us.”

Justina describes the awe and joy of entering the intensive care unit and seeing her youngest sister for the first time following the surgery. “I looked down at her, could actually see her new heart beating through her thin gown,” she tearfully reflects.

One of the most poignant moments following the surgery came from Dr. Botha, who told the family: “Well, we took out a nasty liver and put in a Rolls Royce.”

Another health care professional at UNMC, Amanda Schademann, RN, BSN, was working as staff nurse with the hospital’s Cardiac Progressive Care Unit when she heard about Kathryn’s case. As a Pius X alumna, Amanda ‘05 felt an immediate connection and desire to reach out to the Slattery family.

“I heard about Kathryn (from a family member) at Thanksgiving,” Amanda recalls. “The following Monday, I went to the hospital room, introduced myself, and asked if they needed anything.”

The day of the surgery, the charge nurse alerted her that a potential transplant would take place on Kathryn, and part of the nurse training involves sitting in and

Kathryn has always been a Thunderbolt!

Kathryn’s Baptism Kathryn’s journey has seen many trials, but a smile - hers or those of family and friends - and her faith has seen her through.

watching the surgery take place. “Knowing my connection, they asked if I was available and I said of course I would be!”

This was the first full transplant Amanda had seen, and watched all through the night and into the morning when they closed Kathryn up.

“Afterwards, I would stop in to see her every night when I was at work. I think having a friendly face to keep your spirits up has a lot to do with recovery.”

Like so many others, Amanda was extremely impressed with Kathryn’s demeanor despite the grueling surgery and recovery process. “Even when I saw her in the ICU she was smiling the entire time.

I don’t know if I would have been that strong.”

The first few days following the surgery would be critical to Kathryn’s recovery.

Although she suffered some minor setbacks, there were no signs of organ rejection, and the success of the transplant procedure already was becoming evident.

“Even by the day after the surgery, you could see the pink in her nails and on her face and lips,” Justina recalls.

Prior to the transplant operation, Kathryn’s oxygen levels had been dropping to dangerous levels, and now her new heart was working to reverse that.

“You and I have anywhere between 97-100% oxygenated blood,” Marilyn explains. “Before surgery, her levels were running in the high 50s to low 80s. Now it is nearly 100%, and she can walk faster without getting out of breath.”

Kathryn not only defied all of the odds for surgical and post-operative complications, her hospital stay was one-third in length of what the family was told prior to the surgery.

“The doctors had told us she would be in the hospital for three months,” Jim says of his daughter’s miraculous recovery.

“Three weeks later, we were able to bring Kathryn home.”

From “Miracle” Patient to Queen of the Prom After arriving home, it took time for Kathryn to be released to be in large public groups. Even then, she wore a mask to

A mother’s smile is always good medicine!

Kathryn’s First Holy Communion with her friend, Carrie.

Kathryn’s first day of high school - her smile is ready!

protect herself from germs and infection.

Justina describes looking for prom Throughout the entire ordeal, Kathryn’s dresses, and how Kathryn was in no faithfulness to God continued to inspire way shy of her scar appearing above the awe in all those around her. neckline of the beautiful pink gown she “Hearing her say how much she missed selected for the special evening. going to church because she couldn’t go “I asked if she was going to wear a somewhere with crowds really touched necklace,” their mother Marilyn recalls. me,” Marilyn reflects. “At her age, she “She said, ‘No, I think I look pretty could have missed so many other places,” good.’ This is always how she’s handled such as the shopping mall or gatherings things. And that is how we have always of friends, for example. But Kathryn just taught her from her first surgeries: That longed to go to church. little scar saved your life.”

“I have had strong “Cover it? She faith my entire life, I know it was something wears that scar like but this has defia necklace,” Justina nitely strengthened adds. “She is proud God wanted as a it even more,” Kathto wear it. It is her ryn reflects. “I know badge of honor. small part of His this was a very big Kathryn never comsurgery, obviously, plained and just plan for my life. and God let me get accepted everything through it with no complications when God put in her path. Here I am the older they were expecting so many. I’ve always sister, and I’m supposed to be the role believed in the power of prayer, but it model. But it is Kathryn who is my role really showed in this experience.” model. Her strength and her faith are so While still in the hospital, she received inspiring.” a day-by-day reflection book called Jesus The night of prom, Kathryn was joyCalling. “During the day, we would pick ful to find out she had been cleared by up the book and read it to each other,” her doctors to attend without her mask.

Marilyn remembers. “I will never forget When her name was announced as how it would speak perfectly to exactly “Queen”, the entire room erupted into to what was happening that day.” a standing ovation.

As the days and weeks passed, Pius X “When they called my name, it was administrators and teachers coordinated surreal,” Kathryn recalls. “Just thinking and worked out a plan to help Kathryn about how far I had come to be standing complete her course work in order to there and receiving that honor was amazkeep her on track for graduation. “I will ing.” never forget when Jan Frayser looked at us in the eye and said: ‘She will graduate, The Gift of Life: Paying it Forward no matter what!’” Marilyn recalls. “I canEven from her hospital bed at UNMC, not tell you what a relief it was to hear Kathryn was characteristically thinking that.” about others, in particular, the tens of Then came the news that Kathryn had thousands of people all across the counbeen nominated for prom queen. “When try who at any given time are awaiting Mrs. (Sandy) Hartman called me, I was life-saving donor organs. At that time, surprised and really happy. It made me she asked her family to help her plan and even more excited to come to prom,” hold a fund raiser for Donate Life NeKathryn says with a smile. braska. The organization is dedicated to “Of course, when we heard she was spreading the word about organ, eye and nominated, we were excited for her. But tissue donation, and promotes organ doshe had already won everyone’s heart by nor registration throughout the state. then,” Justina reflects. “I just cannot be The fund raiser was held on April 19 more proud of her.” at the Slattery family’s art and custom

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framing business, Art & Soul. Kathryn attended the event, where she presented a check for $2,000 to the organization.

“I didn’t know that much about organ donation before,” Kathryn says. “But when the Donate Life people came to talk to me (in the hospital), I realized how important it is because there are a lot of people waiting on the list. I was really lucky to get on it so fast. It is so important to spread the word and be an organ donor, because you never know if you or one of your family members will be in need of one.”

“We were so impressed with her generosity,” says Cindy Schabow, spokesperson for Donate Life Nebraska, who was presented with the check. “Most fund raisers we have been involved with in the past have been for the patients because of their tremendous financial needs. This was one

of the first ones that the patient has actually designated us for the funding.”

Schabow notes that Kathryn’s ability to see the bigger picture of how many others are still awaiting donors – and how fortunate she was to be a recipient – is remarkable and yet typical of her generosity and caring spirit.

“She is a very impressive young lady,” Schabow says. “That is really a unique perspective, to think that broadly and openly about others, even as she was still recovering. And she was a very sick young lady at that point.”

The Road Ahead The first year of recovery from Kathryn’s transplant will be what her mother describes as a “balancing act” of getting all her medicines regulated. Thankfully, she is slowly getting off of some of the

Thank You

It is truly amazing the many ways that people in the Pius X and entire Lincoln Catholic community offered support during the last six months for Kathryn.

We wish to thank each and every one of you for your kind and generous support during her challenging medical journey.

There is no question that the many prayers offered for Kathryn and for her family provided the spiritual blessings we needed at critical times. With so many faithful people including Kathryn in their private prayers, it gave her and us strength and comfort that she was clearly in God’s hands. Relying on our faith for the successful outcome for her was constantly reinforced knowing she was included in so many prayers by all of you. Prayer is very powerful and in several instances we believe this massive spiritual support is what pulled Kathryn through some difficult times. Your continued spiritual support has helped her recovery to proceed in such a remarkable way, and to maintain her good attitude that she will be successful with her recuperation. The doctors have reminded us several times this is a marathon, not a sprint. Your continued prayers for Kathryn are very much appreciated.

Who would have believed she would be dismissed from the hospital to return home slightly over three weeks later and to be able to attend her senior prom and return to school after only three months from surgery? We had been advised what to expect for her days after surgery and we were fully prepared to spend months in Omaha as she recuperated.

There have been many special moments from the Pius X and Lincoln Catholic community we are very grateful for. We are very thankful for the many students, faculty and friends that went to the chapel to attend a special mass for Kathryn at the time of her transplant surgery. The cards (especially from the Catholic grade schools), gifts, posters, wristbands, t-shirts and visits from her classmates, priests, faculty, staff and parents were important in providing her emotional support before and after surgery. We were extremely humbled by the generous financial assistance given to us to help with the extra costs for her care not covered by insurance. The Pius X faculty and counseling office have been extremely helpful in assisting Kathryn in completing her senior year so she was able to graduate on time.

Thinking back to prom - what a special night for Kathryn! She was excited when she was told she had been nominated a candidate for queen. It was such joyous moment for all of us to see the standing ovation when they announced her selection as prom queen by her classmates! This will be a memory never forgotten by her or her family. The students showed what good kids they are and what Pius X is all about. Thank you so much!

May God bless each and every one of you!

~Jim, Marilyn, Anthony, Justina, Elisa, Mary and Kathryn Slattery 8

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numerous medicines she is prescribed, and her strength is improving daily. Kathryn also has undergone several weeks of physical therapy to strengthen heart and lung functions.

“She lost a lot of muscle because of being in the hospital for so long,” Marilyn says. “Just walking was difficult in the beginning. Now we can’t keep up with her!”

Looking back on her amazing journey, Kathryn remains humbly faithful, despite the remarkable nature of her experience.

“It was a really hard thing to go through,” she says. “But I know it was something God wanted as a small part of His plan for my life.”

This coming July, at the six month mark of receiving her transplant, Kathryn will be given the opportunity to write a thank-you letter to the donor family that will be delivered through Donate Life.

Her letter must remain anonymous. The family can then choose whether or not to contact her back. The Slattery family’s experience of speaking with other organ recipients have learned that in many cases, donor families are open to meeting the recipients. Others choose to remain anonymous.

“I read a story about a little girl, Avery, who got a heart transplant when she was six years old,” Kathryn says. “When she met the donor family, they became instant friends and they are still in contact today. I think it would be really cool if that were to happen to me.”

During her road to recovery, Kathryn became a typical high school senior. She graduated with her class on May 20, and is now looking forward to college. While still unsure on the direction her skills and aspirations will lead her, Kathryn will be attending the University of NebraskaLincoln. Currently she plans on pursuing a major in English and a minor is speech pathology.

“That may change – I’m already second guessing myself,” she says.

Kathryn is certain of one thing - her desire to become more involved with Donate Life, serving as volunteer and spokesperson.

Kathryn is also awaiting word from the Make-a-Wish Foundation, a non-profit organization that grants wishes to children with life-threatening medical conditions. This summer, the foundation will be granting one of her three wishes: a trip to Fiji, a Hawaiian vacation, or a chance to meet actor Channing Tatum.

What other plans await the young Pius X alumna?

“I really like to write, especially creative writing,” Kathryn says.

When asked if she may write a book about her life experience one day, she pauses, and then replies: “I could, maybe.”

And then Kathryn smiles.

Thunder

1 Mile & 5K

BOLT Fun Run

2nd Annual

Pius X High School

August 4, 2012 8 a.m. • Holmes Lake Park Registration available online at: www.piusx.net/alumni Select: Events - ThunderBOLT Fun Run or go to:

http://alumni.piusx.net/fun_run.htm Early Deadline: July 9 $20/person or $100/family

Thanks to our sponsors!

Peter Morin, M.D. Family Practice

after July 9: $25/person or $125/family, no t-shirt guarantee

• Packet pick-up to be held Aug. 3 from 4-7 p.m. at Pius X High School.

• Late registration - 7 a.m. Saturday at Holmes Lake.

• Children 5 & under may participate for free, a t-shirt would cost $10 each.

• Strollers allowed in the 1 mile ONLY. No dogs are permitted.

• Prizes awarded to the top three male and female finishers in the 5K run and top finishers (male and female) in each age division.

Dr. Daniel J. Tomes, M.D.

For more information, please contact:

Kristin Heath

Nicole Simon CLU, Agent

Alumni Director 488.0931 • kristin.heath@piusx.net

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academic success

2012 Class of

Photo courtesy of Yearbook staff.

Taylor Ackerman Elizabeth Albrecht Eric Anderson Vanessa Arias Connor Aylor Jeffrey Aylward Charles Barber Lucy Barie Annalese Barnes Emma Barnett Jose Barreda Hannah Beiermann Elizabeth Benes Erika Benes Marie Bertrand Aubrey Birch George Blankenau Christopher Bodfield Michael Boes Levi Bowman Joshua Bro Gabrielle Bruckner Christopher Bruner Abigail Burt Stephen Byers Elizabeth Campbell Nicholas Carter Alexis Christen John Clark Melody Claus Shelby Condello Quinn Conzemius Colin Costello Katherine Crawford Hunter Creglow Alexandra Crook Conor Culhane Nicholas Daily Madison Davis William Davis Emily Dawson Mary Dawson Nicholas Demery Anna Drehs Cory Durbin Cassandra Effken Matthew Ellerbee Steven Emmerich Joshua Ernst Ann Essay Marc Fehringer Lindsay Feltes Constance Fiedler Mark Fiedler Bridget Fitzgerald Jason Flink Katelyn Geary Riley Giesler Armando Gomez Torres

Ben Goodwin Derrick Gossard William Gregersen Jack Gude Jordan Haas Cameron Haecker Bridgette Hafner Austin Hagge Jordan Hall Bridget Hansen Anna Hanzl Guillermo Haro Nicole Hartmann Michael Heibel Jacob Hernbloom Cassandra Heskett Caleb Hile Leah Hile Caleb Hoesing Kristopher Hollamon Maria Hotovy Scarlett Howerter Gerardo Izaguirre Jacob Jara Noah Javadi Amber Johnson Chloe Johnson Margaret Johnson Ashton Jones Harlan Jones Derek Jundt Shannon Kelly Johan Klasson Johnathon Knobbe Jessica Koelzer Jared Kolbush Kelsey Konecky Kathryn Kopetzky Shauna Krause Mason Krcmarik Dylan Krings Amy Kula Samuel Kurtenbach Benjamin Landwehr Christopher Lauer Nhung Le Russell Lichtenfeld Emilee Linebaugh Mary Litt Tanner Lockhorn Caleb Logsdon William Long Michaela Maguire Kayla Malizzi Mary Marsolek Zackary Massey Kevin McCabe Ethan McClellen Abby McClure

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Madison McConkey Carolyn McDermott Hilde McKee Adam McNeal Cami Mehl Thomas Mejstrik, Jr. Kathleen Meradith Derek Meyer Margaret Meyers Zachary Micek Emily Milana Logan Milburn Trevor Milburn Braidan Miller Bryce Miller Drew Miller Elena Miller Jeremy Miller Maxwell Miller Tyler Minchow Brian Morehouse Margaret Morehouse Ariana Munguia Paola Mwenentanda Audra Nabity Tiffany Nagel Phouog Anh Nguyen Dang Nguyen Kevin Nguyen Randy Nguyen Shawn Nguyen Erich Nickman Jared Nickman Austin Niemann Sara Novotny Devin O’Brien Sarah O’Hearn Matthew Olsson Sean O’Neill Dominic Otto Nichole Perez Pacuno Kelsey Patzel Benjamin Pavlovic Edgar Pelayo Sarah Petrzilka Ryan Pham Dominic Piccolo Erica Pieper Katrina Pierce William Pokojski Eric Policky Lauren Pope Matthew Powell Nolan Pribnow Brooke Punteney Tyler Ramos Andrew Reese Emily Rentschler Richard Rice

Anne Richert Ian Ritterbush Trenton Royse Casey Rozell Lea Sack Timothy Sanders Cole Sartore Alec Sasse Nathan Schlautman Anne-Marie Schneider Austin Schnell Abigail Schoening Justin Schreiber Andrew Schumacher Zakary Sedlak Samantha Shottenkirk Mary Sievert Taylor Skudlarek Kathryn Slattery Richard Sloup Lauren Smith Raymond Smith Michaela Speth Patrick Spethman Stephanie Springer Emily Steinbach Dayton Stewart Derek Stoley Erika Stuchlik Mary Sullivan Mitchell Theil Alexander Theisen Michaela Timmins Alex Tobias Joshua Tomjack Adam Torres Jessica Tran Paul Tran Katelyn Tucker Nicholas Varilek Alison Vazquez Kyle VerMaas Matthew Vrbka Hanna Wackel Kyle Warday Marie Wathen Danielle Weskamp Emily Wiebeck Eric Wilhelm Samuel Williams Benjamin Woita Austin Woltemath Allison Zastrow Andrew Zeleski Matt Zeplin Mitchell Znamenacek

Academic Accomplishments • 94% post-secondary enrollment • 35 seniors scored a 30+ on their ACT test • 26 seniors had a perfect cumulative 4.0 average • 49% of class received the Presidential Academic Excellence Award (cumulative GPA of 3.5 or above) • 38 seniors named Distinguished Scholars • University of Nebraska - Lincoln o 16 Regent, 18 Honors Program, 1 Raikes, 4 Top Scholars • University of Nebraska - Omaha o 5 Regents, 2 Dean’s, 1 Chancellor’s Scholarship • University of Nebraska – Kearney o 1 Regent Scholarship • Nebraska Wesleyan University – 27 Achievement, 1 Vaughn and 2 Legacy Scholarships • Benedictine College – 1 Dean’s Scholarship • Creighton University – 11 Scholarships • Marquette University – 1 Honors Program Selection • Susan Buffett Scholarship – 1 winner • Presidential Scholar – 2 selected to apply • Omaha World Herald All Eastern AllAcademic o 1st Team individual o 2nd Team individual • Elks Most Valuable Student Scholarship – 1 National Finalist • One student to attend St. Gregory the Great Seminary • 2 seniors selected for “Best of the Class”, sponsored by Channel 8 KLKN-TV saluting top academic achievers in Nebraska • 3rd place in State Academic Decathlon receiving 26 individual medals • National Forensics League 1 Academic All-American

athletic highlights

State Champions Baseball • Wrestling • Bowling

ongratulations to Coach Charf Cand the Pius X Baseball team for claiming Pius X’s first ever State Baseball Championship!

The Pius X baseball team celebrates and shows off the school’s very first State Baseball Championship trophy! The baseball team also made the local news’ Top Baseball Moments in 2012. View it at www.1011now.com, Sports, Prep Zone. Photo courtesy of Pius X Yearbook Staff.

ongratulations to the Pius X Bowling Teams Cfor sweeping the Nebraska High School Bowling Federation State Championships.

Congratulations to the 2012 Pius X baseball team and coaches! Pictured l to r, back: Jordan Hall, Matt Foley, Nolan Walker, Alexander Schleppenbach, Jared Kolbush, Fletcher Zornes, middle: Daniel LeDuc, Jonathon Brakenhoff, Ryne Kortum, Tanner Zeutzius, Ian Ritterbush, Jacob Schleppenbach, Devin Krenk, Rex Raetz, front: Derek Meyer, Tyler Hooper, Christopher Bodfield, Jordan Haas, Anthony McWilliams, Travis Sedlak, and Thomas Schneider. Photo courtesy of Pius X Yearbook Staff.

ongratulations to Pius X Wrestling CTeam, who had three state medalist.

Jared Nickman claimed the State Title with Ben Goodwin taking home the runner-up medal and Tyson Cisneros placing fifth place.

Jared Nickman

The 2012 State Championship for the boys bowling team marked their third state title in four years and the first title for the girls’ team. Above: The Pius X boys team members include (back, l to r, back) John Masinelli, Nick Schuller, Coach Rod Machacek, Jon Post, Colin Koehler, Coach Larry Puteney, (front, l to r) Derrick Gossard, Drew Miller, and Will Thorpe. Right: The girls’ team members include (l to r, back) Jessika Lierz, Coach Tyler Puteney, Brooke Punteney, Kaylee Petersen, (front, l to r) Meghan Straub, and Kelly Machacek.

Ben Goodwin

Tyson Cisneros

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pius essentials

Cheer Squad Takes 2nd at National Competition The Pius X Cheer leading Squad competed at the contest of Champions Nationals School and Youth Recreational Cheer competition on Feb. 26 in Orlando, Fla. In addition to cheering at Pius X sporting events and regular practices and activities throughout the year, the team members had to commit to additional practices in preparation for the national competition. Their hard work and dedication paid off when they brought home 2nd place, missing the championship title by just .4 of a point. Congratulations to coaches Amy Snyder, Lexie Deahn and Jess Posta and the competition squad, including Ehlee Anderson, Kaylyn Barnes, Tracie Champoux, Melody Claus, Makala Gossard, Nikki Hartmann, Sami Jablonski, Hannah Kathe, Madeline Kenney, Michaela Maguire, Bridget McKeegan, Madison Montanez, Maggie Morehouse, Megan Pohlen, Anna Printz, Allison Russell, Meg Tasler, Mikayla Tremain, Kelsie Valish and Natalia Unger. Photo courtesy of Kelly Morehouse.

Pius X Students Give Gift of Education Club World Aid focused all of their efforts this year to raise funds for a “School for Sam.” Sam is a student at the Shanti Bhavan School in India. Shanti Bhavan’s mission is to adequately develop the most vulnerable and disadvantaged children of India’s “lowest caste.”

Club World Aid held a number of fundraisers, including an Encore Benefit Concert. In one fundraiser more than $3,330 was raised for Sam and to pay for Sam’s education and room and board. This gift will nearly cover three full years of his education. The students found inspiration through the daughter of Pius X spanish teacher, Mrs. Sievert. Elise taught English and dance at Shanti Bhavan. Club World Aid, one of many Pius X’s student led organizations, is dedicated to promoting awareness of problems in our world and to finding ways to improve our world. You can learn more about Sam and his incredible school at www.shantibhavanonline.org. Photo courtesy of Yearbook staff.

WORDSTRUCK Live!

Celebrates 10th Anniversary

Prayer, by Stephanie Spring

er

Pius X student authors, artists, and photographers were showcased at WORDSTRUCK Live! on April 28. Celebrating its 10th year, the annual event is planned each year by the second semester ria Senior Writing Class taught by Mrs. Burt. It included a coffeehouse Shannon Kelly and Ma h 10t the at t sen pre y Hotov atmosphere complete with a stage; art and photography displays; Wordstruck of ry ersa niv An live music; readings of published pieces by their authors; and refreshstaff.

Live. Photo courtesy of Yearbook ments.

The participating students also publish their work in a literary magazine entitled WORDSTRUCK 2012. This 12th annual piece was then available for purchase for the cost of $10. Copies are still available by contacting Pius X High School. The value of Wordstruck 2012 is immeasurable - as the thoughts, feelings and artistic expressions

by Theresa McB ride of Pius X students are worthy of seeing, reading and keeping.

Congratulations to all members of Senior Writing who helped to produce the magazine: Annalese Barnes, Jose Barreda, Erica Benes, Abby Burt, Cory Durbin, Katelyn Geary, Nikki Hartmann, Maria Hotovy, Scarlett Howerter, Shannon Kelly, Emilee Linebaugh, Abby McClure, Derek Meyer, Jeremy Miller, Erich Nickman, Sarah O’Hearn, William Pokojski, Richie Rice, Mary Kate Sievert, Taylor Skudlarek, Kathryn Slattery, Emily Steinbeck, Erika Stuchlik, Mary Sullivan, Kalie Timmins, Alex Tobias, Josh Tomjack, Kyle VerMass, Matt Vrbka, Hannah Wackel, Kyle Warday, Emily Wiebeck, and Eric Wilhelm.

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empowering students

Academic All-State

PrepVolleyball.com named three Pius X volleyball players to their list of High School Academic All-Americans for the 2011 fall season. All three student-athletes ended their high school career with perfect 4.0 GPAs. Allison Zastrow was named to the 1st Allison Zastrow Team. She will be playing volleyball in this fall for Washington University in St. Louis, Mo. Named to the 2nd Team was Cassie Effken, who will be headed to Drake University Cassie Effken in Des Moines, Iowa to also play volleyball.

5th Team honors went to Lea Sack. She will be attending and playing volleyball at Bradley University in Peoria, Ill. Lea Sack Pius X Student Selected for Scholar Programs

Mary Driewer was selected as a QuestBridge 2012 College Prep Scholar. As such, she has been nominated for an allexpense-paid campus visit to one or more of QuestBridge’s partner colleges and has been wait listed for a QuestBridge College Admissions Conference at Stanford University, Princeton University, or Northwestern University.

Mary was also selected as a 2012 Joyce Ivy Foundation Summer Scholar.

Through this summer program, she will

Nation’s Capitol Provides Unique Educational Experience This year, 115 Pius X students traveled to Washington, D.C., our nation’s capital for an extraordinary educational experience.

The trip immersed them in the culture and heritage of our country.

Students explored the Capitol, and visited memorials including the Martin Luther King, Franklin Delano Roosevelt, Thomas Jefferson, Lincoln, Korean, Iwo Jima, WWII and Vietnam memorials. Other highlights included the Holocaust Museum, Mount Vernon, and Arlington National Cemetery and the changing of the guards. Special thanks to Senator Mike Johann’s office, which made special arrangements for a tour of the White House.

attend Brown University this summer with the costs being paid by Brown University and the Joyce Ivy Foundation.

The selection of the 2012 Summer Scholars was extremely competitive based on academic achievement, commitment to extracurricular activities, and motivation demonstrated by the applicant.

Students to Participate in Summer Education Experience

Four Pius X students have been selected and will be participating in educational opportunities at St. Elizabeth Regional Medical Center this summer. The Pius students are four of only 18 selected for the program.

Jayme Cox and Garrett Teel will have a fun and exciting learning journey as part of the St. Elizabeth’s Health Occupations Summer Internship. The experience will

include learning from and networking with medical professionals and other interns. They will keep a weekly journal, conduct research and make an oral Jayme Cox presentation about their project.

Morgan Bideaux and Rebecca Wright will participate in St. Garrett Teel Elizabeth’s Summer Camp which will include experience at the hospital Morgan Bideaux and at additional sites which will enhance the camp adventure. They are encouraged to bring journals and capture their thoughts and information Rebecca Wright they receive.

faculty notes

Four Pius X Teachers Retire Pius X is blessed with an outstanding faculty and staff, but the new school year will bring a different look as four special educators are retiring.

Mrs. Sally Burt is ending her career after 15 years as a member of the English department and a beloved writing teacher. Her senior writing class produces the school’s literary magazine, Wordstruck and hosts Wordstruck Live! She was the recipient of a Teacher of the Year award in 2004.

Mrs. Connie Weir has spent 45 years teaching, including 20 years at Pius X. In addition to teaching Spanish, she has graciously given of her time and talent leading a number of student organizations.

Retiring Pius X faculty Mr. Dan Leuenberger, Mrs. Sally Mr. Dan Leuenberger may have only spent five years at Pius X, but he has Burt, Mrs. Connie Weir, and Sr. Veronica were honored at definitely left his mark. In addition to teaching math, he started the Pius X Pius X’s end of year faculty/staff luncheon.

Cribbage Club.

Leaving Pius X, but definitely not retiring is Sr. Veronica. She has been teaching and leading the theology department for the last 18 years. She will be heading to Atchison, Kan., to open a new convent to house younger Sisters attending Benedictine College.

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faculty notes

So We Will Never Forget: Pius X Educators Explore the Holocaust

Above: Pius X instructors Katie Elsener (left) and Tom Seib (center), along with former Pius X teacher Jane Connealy (right) have become national leaders in Holocaust Education.

They will again be leading one of only seven satellite seminars offered this summer by the The Memorial Library. The educators are pictured above at the Oskar Schindler’s factory and on the left in front of the statue of St. Pope John Paul II in Crawcow, Poland.

This past spring, Katie Elsener, Tom Seib, and Jane Connealy participated in an educational tour of historical sites in Poland and Israel, as part of the Holocaust Educators Network. The trip took place from March 24-April 4, and was sponsored by the Memorial Library in New York City.

This unique experience will allow the educators to share their knowledge and experience with students when teaching about social justice in today’s world. In addition, the teachers will be leading a seminar to share their knowledge with other educators.

Elsener and Seib are currently Pius X High School teachers and Connealy is a former teacher at Pius X. They joined 14 other educators from across the United States and visited historical sites related to the Holocaust and important to contemporary Jewish life.

The educational trip included exploration of the Warsaw Ghetto, Oskar Schindler’s factory, and the concentration camps, including Majdanek and Auschwitz. They also visited the location where Gisela Glaser labored in the Plashov concentration camp, where Irving Roth dug ditches near Birkenau, and where Olga Lengyel used her skills as a physician’s assistant in the infirmary at Auschwitz.

In Israel, they toured sacred and secular sites in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, including

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Yad Vashem: The Holocaust Martyrs’ and Memorial Library was founded by Olga Heroes’ Remembrance Authority, and Lengyel, a Holocaust survivor and author visited Masada, a UNESCO World Heriof Five Chimneys: A Woman’s True Story of tage Site of critical importance to Jewish Auschwitz. history.

“After Lengyel died, she left a sum of In both Poland and Israel, the teachers money to the library in an effort to get traveled with a Holocaust survivor and a teachers to teach the Holocaust correctly historian, and met with local educators in and effectively,” Elsener explains. “Her order to exchange ideas about the rewards hope was that the knowledge of the Hoand challenges of teaching about the locaust wouldn’t die.”

Holocaust. They and Sixteen of the parsome of their fellow ticipating teachers also “For the dead and lead Memorial Library travelers wrote about their experiences for a Satellite Seminars in the living, blog created for their seven states, including students back home.

Nebraska. Elsener, Seib, we must bear Among the most and Connealy will be poignant experiences leading the Nebraska witness.” on the trip were their satellite seminar June ~ Elie Wiesel visits to the notorious 25-29 at Pius X High concentration camps in the region.

School. The seminar is free for Nebraska “You cannot imagine how big teachers in grades 7-12 in both public Auschwitz is,” Seib recalls. “We read and private schools, and will help teachers about this and we see documentaries and learn about the Holocaust and implewe hear stories, but we think it’s just this menting a curriculum that addresses sotiny camp. It’s not at all. As far as the cial injustice on both the local and global eye can see, it was barracks. And to the level. end of the camp were the ovens and the “There is no better way to teach somecrematories. It was so big. It was a death thing like this than to witness it personfactory.” ally,” Elsener says.

The Holocaust Educators Network is a To learn more about the Memorial Ligroup of more than 100 middle school, brary, the Holocaust Educators Network, high school, and college faculty who the Summer Seminar and the Satellite have participated in summer seminars Seminar programs, please visit www. offered by the Memorial Library. The thememoriallibrary.org.

building a strong foundation

Summer greetings to you from Pius X High School! Yes, we are a little late in getting this publication out; however, as you will see on page 19 of this newsletter, Pius X is buzzing with a lot of activity and keeping all of us who work here during the summer months very busy!

I just returned from an action-packed four day trip of a lifetime to Washington D.C. with seasoned veteran chaperones Ray Forycki, Jan Frayser, Tom Seib, Tom Korta, Katie Elsener and Greg Lesiak. This year, 115 Pius X students, our largest group ever, traveled to our nation’s capital where they received an extraordinary educational experience that immersed them in the culture and heritage of our country. Students explored the capitol where current and past politicians have changed the world. They visited memorials including the Martin Luther King, Franklin Delano Roosevelt, Thomas Jefferson, Lincoln, Korean, Iwo Jima, WWII and Vietnam memorials.

Some highlights of the trip were the Holocaust Museum and visiting Mount Vernon, George Washington’s mansion, where we visited his tomb and nearly 50 acres of his extensive plantation. We also got to tour the White House this year thanks to Senator Mike Johann’s office who helped us get in. On Friday, the last day or our trip, we toured Arlington National Cemetery, 624 acres of impressive landscape, which serves as a tribute to the service and sacrifice of every individual laid to rest. At the cemetery we were able to visit the Kennedy gravesites, tour Lee’s mansion and witness the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Construction is Unknown Soldier. quickly moving “The trip’s success over the past along. Phase 1, 22 years is due to the cooperation which will include and behavior of the kids, the dedithe first of two cation and caring attitude of the chemistry classrooms and labs, will be many chaperones and the support complete for the of our school,” remarked Ray Fory2012-13 school year. cki. “The numbers have fluctuated over the years with 47 students our first year being the smallest group, Michelle Birkel to 122 this year, our largest group.

Director of Development y It is a trip we look forward to every year.” $26,540.00 Some of the most rewarding words I hear working at $53,156.00 Pius X are, “There is a very special tradition at Pius X. ants $17,241.04 Thank goodness for the strong Catholic formation that $96,937.04 has prepared our kids so well for their future.”

We just experienced something very special here this Give To Lincoln Day past month that will enable Pius to continue providing an excellent education and Catholic foundaTotal Raised: $96,937.04 $26,540.00 tion for our students. On May 17, more than 430 donors including alumni, parents and friends $53,156.00 of Pius X, supported us through the “Give To Lincoln Day” campaign, sponsored by the Lincoln $17,241.04 Community Foundation. A grand total of $1.3 million was raised $96,937.04 $17,241.04 Give To Lincoln Day for 187 nonprofit organizations in Lancaster County in just a 24 hour period. Pius X netted $94,558.47 after expenses and ranked Total Matching, Bonus $26,540.00 #2 (out of 187) in number of online donors and ranked #1 in total & Prize Funds Receive: amount raised out of all the nonprofits that participated. THANK $17,241.04 Matching Funds YOU! We have wonderful support from our alumni, parents and Bonus Grant $200 $17,241.04 the Lincoln community and we cannot thank everyone enough!

Prize Grant $53,156.00 $1,500 Offline Donations Due to this successful campaign, phase 1 of Room 200 of the $26,540.00 Online Donations Chemistry Lab renovation project began on June 1.

Match & Bonus Grants “Our chemistry labs are in poor condition as they have not been $53,156.00 Offline Donations Matching Funds renovated since the school opened its doors more than 50 years Online Donations Bonus Grant ago,” said science department chair, Shari Schneider. “Since that Match & Bonus Grants time, there have been many recommended laboratory innovaPrize Grant tions that Pius X High School has been unable to meet due to $15,541.04 aging facilities. Our faculty have been able to work around these challenges; however, a number of improvements have become more and more necessary due to tightening requirements on high school chemistry laboratories related to space, safety and number of required years of science education.”

This much needed renovation will provide a modernized lab environment which includes an upgraded teacher demonstration table and new student experiment stations. An eyewash and emergency chemical shower will be added and a proper fume hood will be installed. New cabinets, desks and wheel chair accessible sink will be installed as well as a new floor and ceiling.

We will keep you posted of our progress throughout the New Chemistry summer. Thank you for your support and belief in Pius X Classrooms and Labratories High School.

Pius X

FOUNDATION

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building a strong foundation

T 2011-12 Scholarship Recipients

hank you to our many donors who have established Endowed Scholarships within the Pius X Foundation. Because of your generosity, 79 scholarships totaling $40,025 were distributed to assist these students and their families with their tuition. Additionally, $6,420 in scholarships was awarded to Pius X students by the Dillon Foundation.

Carmen Alcalde

Charles Shandera Memorial Scholarship

Aubrey Birch

Richard and Dorothy Burke Memorial Scholarship & Dillon Foundation Scholarship

Alison Cordry

Steve Grosserode Scholarship in memory of Marcella Grosserode & Dillon Foundation Scholarship

Nicholas Esparza

Pius X Foundation Scholarship & Dillon Foundation Scholarship

Jason Flink

Dillon Foundation Scholarship

Colin Korensky

Paul & Rosemary Reinsch Scholarship

Caitie Mattison

Monsignor Dawson Scholarship

Christian Alcalde

Pius X Foundation Scholarship

Gabrielle Bruckner

Charles Shandera Memorial & Adam McCabe Memorial Scholarship for Kindness

Melanie Cordry

Steve Grosserode Scholarship in memory of Marcella Grosserode

Tyson Cisneros

Dillon Foundation Scholarship

Bridget Hansen

Dillon Foundation Scholarship

Sarah Kottwitz

Charles Shandera Memorial Scholarship

Darrick Mazour

Monsignor Dawson Scholarship

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Jose Al-Kafaji

Jim and Merle Briggs Memorial Scholarship

Simon Bruckner

Vince Aldrich Memorial Scholarship

Kenny Do

John Liescheski Memorial Scholarship

Andriana Fernandez

Pius X Foundation & Dillon Foundation Scholarship

Hannia Horta

Dillon Foundation Scholarship

Nicholas Kramer

R. Scott Wickham Memorial Scholarship

Hilde McKee

Dillon Foundation Scholarship

Alexandria Artiaga

Jeff Dodd Memorial Scholarship

Riley Carney

Pius X Foundation Scholarship

Abraham Driewer

Glenn and Ann Miller Memorial Scholarship

Constance Fiedler

Jose Barreda

Steve Grosserode Scholarship in memory of Marcella Grosserode, Charles Shandera Memorial Scholarship, & Dillon Foundation Scholarship

Max Church

Patrick Schafers Memorial Scholarship

Mary Driewer

Glenn and Ann Miller Memorial Scholarship

Alejandra Espinoza

J.F. Houser Citizenship Scholarship in Honor of Donald J. Houser

Dillon Foundation Scholarship

Breanna Incontro

Bernadette Johnson

Pius X Foundation Scholarship

Brandon Krauel

Dillon Foundation Scholarship

Jacob Meyers

Vince Aldrich Memorial Scholarship

Kaitlyn Baumgartner

Harold and Cecilia Sherman Scholarship

Rachel Bruns

Dillon Foundation Scholarship

Megan Drozda

John Byington Scholarship

Halley Gaucher

Mark Gibbs

Carl Endrulat

Vince Aldrich Memorial Scholarship, Pius X Foundation Scholarship & Dillon Foundation Scholarship

Samantha Grendahl

Pius X Foundatin Scholarship

Margaret Johnson

Jaelle Kondohoma

Prisca Kondohoma

Morgan Kuklis

Jean Thomy Kwambamba

Paul Meza

Harry Endrulat

Vince Aldrich Memorial Scholarship & Pius X Foundation Scholarship

Nathan Clement

Kristin Bottger Memorial Scholarship

Pius X Foundation Scholarship

Steve H. Grosserode Scholarship in memory of Marcella Grosserode

Mary Elizabeth Brake Memorial Scholarship & Dillon Foundaton Scholarship

Aiden Clarke

Glenn and Ann Miller & Amy Rodeno Scholarship in Memory of Dr. and Mrs. Lynn Sharrar

Audrey Bieber

Dillon Foundation Scholarship

Glenn and Ann Miller Memorial Scholarship

Mary Elizabeth Brake Memorial Scholarship

Eileen Hartmann Memorial Scholarship

Katherine Benal

Dillon Foundation Scholarship

Dillon Foundation Scholarship

Alberto Meza

Steve H. Grosserode Scholarship in memory of Marcella Grosserode

John Michael Foley Memorial Scholarship

Ben Landwehr

Michael Anderson Memorial Scholarship & Dillon Foundation Scholarship

Jesus Meza

George O’Boyle Scholarship

John Michael Foley Memorial Scholarship

Allison Main

Charles Shandera Memorial Scholarship

Jeremy Miller

Harold and Cecilia Sherman Scholarship

building a strong foundation

Scholarships Make Catholic Education Possible for Many Families “I would like to thank everyone who has made this scholarship possible for me to receive. My father was very proud and happy when he received the letter in the mail about my scholarship. This scholarship will definitely help my family’s financial situation at the moment.”

This statement came from a Pius X Senior, who wrote a wonderful thank you letter to his scholarship donor. His, like the following, were only three of many letters which expressed abundant gratitude for the gift of Catholic education and Pius X High School.

“My passion for God has only taken enormous strides forward during my time at Pius.”

“I used to dislike math, but the teachers here at Pius make it a fun learning environment and are good at teaching it. Also I never really liked reading books until I started coming to Pius and taking English classes. I must say though that Modern Literature has the best books to read.”

These statements hold the truth of the importance of protecting Catholic education for all students.

The cost of a Catholic education, even with successful efforts to keep tuition affordable, is still a burden for many families. Thank you to all of the individuals and families who have so generously helped hundreds of students attend Pius X High School.

Katelin Miller

Dillon Foundation Scholarship

Austin O’Brien

Nicole Olson

Dillon Foundation Scholarship

Steve H. Grosserode Scholarship in memory of Marcella Grosserode

Ryan Peters

Stephanie Polivka

Vince Aldrich Memorial Scholarship

Sarah Styron

Stephanie L. Fiedler Memorial Scholarship & Dillon Foundation Scholarship

Quentin Vrbka

Kristin Bottger Memorial Scholarship

Glenn and Ann Miller Memorial Scholarship

Mitch Theil

Kathi Krause Memorial Scholarship

Kyle Warday

Paul & Rosemary Reinsch Scholarship

Betty Ostasuc

Amy Rodeno Scholarship in Memory of Dr. and Mrs. Lynn Sharrar

Nolan Pribnow

Adam McCabe Memorial Scholarship for Kindness

Clayton Tobin

Dillon Foundation Scholarship

Emily Wiebeck

John Liescheski Memorial Scholarship

Mary Ostasuc

Amy Rodeno Scholarship in Memory of Dr. and Mrs. Lynn Sharrar

Pamela Ramirez

This year, $40,025 in scholarships were generously awarded to 77 students, with an additional $6,420 being awarded to 30 students by the Dillon Foundation. This is only a portion of the students who need assistance. Almost 15% of those applying for a scholarship did not receive any assistance. Additionally, none of the 34 endowed scholarships provide full tuition assistance. The average scholarship award pays only 1/3 of the tuition cost or about $506 per student.

You can protect the future of Catholic education for all students by donating to one of the endowed scholarships or Pius X Foundation’s general scholarship fund. As a scholarship balance increases, so does the financial help students receive.

If you would like donate to an existing scholarship or establish a new endowed scholarship, please contact Michelle Birkel at the Pius X Foundation at 402.488.1046. You may also donate directly to an existing scholarship by sending a check in the enclosed envelope or safely and securely on-line at www.piusx.net/foundation. Simply click on the Donate Now link.

Tyler Minchow

J.F. Houser Citizenship Scholarship in Honor of Donald J. Houser

Cindy Ostiguin

Robert T. Roach Memorial Scholarship & Dillon Foundation Scholarship

Louis Root

Pius X Foundation Scholarship

Charles Shandera Memorial Scholarship

Roger Torres

JohnMark Townsend

Austin Woltemath

Mitch Znamenacek

Pius X Foundation Scholarship & Dillon Foundation Scholarship

Amy Rodeno Scholarship in Memory of Dr. and Mrs. Lynn Sharrar

Charles E. Chace Memorial Scholarship

Kathi Krause Memorial Scholarship

Paola Mwenentandk

Dillon Foundation Scholarship

Nicole Owens

Dillon Foundation Scholarship

Stephen Sailors

Don Kelley Scholarship

Peter Tran

Liam and Lorraine Barr Memorial Scholarship & Dillon Foundation Scholarship

Fletcher Zornes

Mary Elizabeth Brake Memorial Scholarship

Hunter Nelson

Clint Eckhout Memorial Scholarship

Annet Pelayo

Pius X Foundation Scholarship & Dillon Foundation Scholarship

Andres Salinas

Jason Nguyen

Charles E. Chace Memorial Scholarship & Dillon Foundation Scholarship

Edgar Pelayo

Pius X Foundation Scholarship

Ricky Sloup

Glenn and Ann Miller Memorial Scholarship

Linda Sloup Memorial Scholarship

Faith Villamonte

Rebecca Villamonte

Vince Aldrich Memorial Scholarship

Harrison Zornes

Mary Elizabeth Brake Memorial Scholarship

Charles Shandera Memorial Scholarship

Sullivan Zornes

Glenn and Ann Miller Memorial Scholarship

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building a strong foundation

Al and Dorothy Ballweg Protect Catholic What types of Education, Give Everlasting Gift Al Ballweg was a World War II and Korean War veteran. He retired from his position as an accounting manager for Burlington Northern Railroad. Both Al and his wife Dorothy believed in Catholic education.

Several years ago, Dorothy and Al updated their estate plan. When they passed away, Al and Dorothy wanted to protect Catholic education for the future.

Upon Al’s death last December, Al and Dorothy did just this – they made an everlasting impact on Catholic education and Pius X High School.

In their will, they granted Pius X’s endowment a gift of $25,000. Their generosity, combined with gifts from you and donors like you, keeps a Pius X education affordable for every student and their family.

With their bequest, Al and Dorothy became members of the St. Pius X Legacy Society. The society honors those individuals who either plan to give or have given a gift upon their death to financially secure the future of Pius X. You are invited to join this distinguished group of individuals by simply making a commitment to Pius X High School in your will.

You can join Al and Dorothy and protect the future of Catholic education by simply including Pius X in your estate plan. Your gift will impact the future, ensure that a Christcentered education remains affordable for all students and their families, and leave a lasting legacy. *All individuals are encouraged to consult with a professional advisor before entering into any charitable or planned gift agreement. Please contact Michelle Birkel at michelle.birkel@ piusx.net or call her at 402.488.1046 to visit with both you and your advisor as you consider your legacy gift to Pius X High School. If you have already included Pius X in your will, please contact the Pius X Foundation at 402.488.1046.

gifts can you give?

You can give almost any type of planned or deferred gift including:

h Will Bequests h Beneficiary of Trusts h Beneficiary of Retirement Accounts h Beneficiary of Life Insurance h Real Estate h Life Income Agreementstrusts, charitable gift, annuities

The following individuals and couples have come forward and shared the wonderful news that they plan to remember Pius X with a planned gift and promote the idea of planned giving toward our school.

St. Pius X

Legacy SOCIEty

Anonymous (11) Aloysius F. & Dorothy Ballweg + Paul and Michelle Birkel Terry Connelly Jack and Margy Dawson Msgr. James Dawson Robert Duden George & Joanne Easley + Mary Fenton + Dr. Carmen Hill Grant Steve & Patricia Grosserode Jim Houser Mike Hughes

Rachel Jensen Fr. John J. Keefe Mary Joan Linebaugh Don and Laurie Luensmann Keith and Pat May Fr. Michael Morin Paul and Rosemary Reinsch Guy and Faie Saunders Howard and Doris Schiefelbein Clara Sullivan + Verlyn and Sheila Westra Richard A. Wiese + denotes deceased

New Computer Monitors

Above: New 17 inch flat-panel monitors are now being used in rooms 206 and 254 thanks to the generosity of an anonymous donor. Left: Fund-It is Pius X’s online, searchable database of needs and wish lists items submitted by teachers and staff.

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Thanks to the generosity of an anonymous alumnus/ former parent, Pius X students are now using new 17 inch flat-panel monitors in two of the computer labs.

The new monitors (which replaced old CRT monitors) enhance sight lines for students and teachers, allow for more workspace, and improve energy efficiency. On behalf of all Pius X students and faculty, we extend our deep appreciation and thanks to the donor for his support and generous gift.

The gift was the result of the efforts of the technology department through Fund-It (http://piusx.fund-it.org/grants/ search.php). Fund-It is a searchable list of Pius X needs and wish list items that can not be covered by the school’s annual budget.

building a strong foundation

Visitor Bleachers to be Upgraded at Aldrich Field New aluminum bleachers to the right side of the current visitor structure at Aldrich Field will be added this summer. Pius X will move to Class A in the 2012-2013 school year for a number of sports and activities. The additional seating will be vital to being able to continue to host football games and other events at Aldrich Field.

Pius X High School has received a generous commitment of $100,000 from an anonymous donor to create additional seating for the visitor bleachers structure at Aldrich Field. In 2010, Pius X High School embarked on a $500,000 project to install artificial turf to be utilized by the football, soccer, track and band programs.

As an extension of this facility improvement, the bleachers upgrade will be an

important enhancement to the Aldrich Field renovation. Pius X will begin installation of new bleachers in the visitor section this summer. With Pius X athletics moving to Class A, the bleachers will be complete for the fall 2012 football season.

“The additional seating at Aldrich Field will be a welcomed addition to the stadium,” states Pius X Athletic Director Tim Aylward. “It is something we have needed, and with the change in our football

schedule to Class A, the 400 additional seats will allow us to better accommodate more fans at Aldrich Field.”

“Aldrich Field is now being used by football, soccer, track, and band to perform on the new playing field, and the improvement of the bleachers for our visitors will truly make it a multi-purpose facility,” explains Michelle Birkel, Director of Development.

The Pius X Foundation works diligently to seek third-source revenue for operations and special projects such as the bleacher improvements. Generous supporters allow Pius X High School to keep it’s tuition among the lowest in the nation. This enables students from all socioeconomic backgrounds to attend our outstanding school.

“Pius X High School and all the Lincoln Catholic schools are strong, faithfilled schools because we have strong, faith filled parishioners and donors who see Catholic schools as a vital ministry,” Superintendent Father James Meysenburg says.

Improvements being made to Weight, Wrestling and Locker Rooms

The existing weight room has been cleared out and construction has already begun. The project will add much needed ventilation, sound proofing, and humidity control.

The summer of 2012 at Pius X High School may just be one of the busiest in recent memories with a number of important projects being completed, including work in the weight, wrestling, and locker rooms.

Thanks to the generous donation of an anonymous donor, the current weight and wrestling rooms are receiving much needed improvements, including sound proofing. The spaces were actually the original school gym, with class rooms added above it. Windows are being installed on the north wall of the weight and wrestling rooms, and the renovations will also include improving ventilation, humidity control and HVAC. A second anonymous donor came forward with a gift for improvements to the locker room. The Booster Club then

Four windows are being added to the north side of Pius X for the weight and wrestling rooms.

Older lockers in both the boys and girls rooms are being painted green to match newer ones.

Additionally, one row of new lockers will be added in the boys locker room.

offered to assist with the renovations.

The shower stalls in both the boys and girls locker rooms will be revamped and walls are being repainted. Lockers are being replaced, repaired or repainted, and new benches are being added.

Summer conditioning has been moved temporarily into the existing wrestling room until the project is completed.

Fresh paint, revamped showers and new benches will complete the locker room renovations.

The support of individual donations, combined with school fund raising efforts is vital to the continued upkeep and improvement of Pius X. Thank you for your support.

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Former Pius X students become college team working on Pluto study

Pius X alumni Mitch Hain ‘07 and Nathaniel Cunningham ’95 worked together as a studentprofessor team at Nebraska Wesleyan University to analyze Pluto’s surface for NASA.

Editor’s Note: This article, written by Kevin Abourezk of the Lincoln Journal Star, is reprinted with permission. All references to Pius X High School have been added to the original article.

A student-professor team at Nebraska Wesleyan University (and both Pius X alumni) has helped uncover evidence of complex molecules on the surface of Pluto, a find that could explain the dwarf planet’s ruddy color.

“This is further evidence of the types of molecules that may be making Pluto reddish,” said Physics Professor Nathaniel Cunningham ’95.

Along with student Mitch Hain ’07 and researchers at the Southwest Research Institute in San Antonio, Cunningham studied data provided by the Hubble Space Telescope this summer to better understand Pluto’s composition. The

Hubble’s highly sensitive Cosmic Origins Spectrograph generated the data used by the team.

The team found a strong ultraviolent wavelength absorber on Pluto’s surface, suggesting possible complex hydrocarbon and nitrile molecules on the planet’s surface. The molecules aren’t signs of life on the distant planet and can be produced by interaction of sunlight or cosmic rays with Pluto’s known surface ices, including methane, carbon monoxide and nitrogen.

The team also discovered evidence of changes in Pluto’s ultraviolet spectrum compared to Hubble measurements from the 1990s. The changes may be related to differing terrains seen now versus then, or to other effects, such as changes in the surface related to a steep increase in the pressure of Pluto’s atmosphere during that same time span.

Cunningham said the team’s research

may be used to help plan research conducted by NASA when its New Horizons spacecraft reaches Pluto in 2015. The Astronomical Journal recently published the team’s findings.

Alan Stern of the Southwest Research Institute said the team’s research bodes well for NASA’s New Horizons mission.

“The discovery we made with Hubble reminds us that even more exciting discoveries about Pluto’s composition and surface evolution are likely to be in store when NASA’s New Horizons spacecraft arrives at Pluto,” Stern said.

Hain, who is now studying mechanical engineering at Washington University in St. Louis, said his role was to pore through the data taken from the Hubble to search for meaningful results.

“It was a good project to wrap up my career at Wesleyan,” he said.

Alumni Spotlight

Mitch Hain ‘07 Mitch, a 2011 Nebraska Wesleyan University graduate, is currently studying mechanical engineering at Washington University in St. Louis. He is the son of Ken and Peggy Hain, and has three siblings: Cory (’05), Alex (’11) and Jacey (’14).

In the summer of 2011, Mitch had the opportunity to conduct important research as a graduate student intern alongside of Nathaniel Cunningham ’95, and have his findings included in a major scientific journal. It was during this time that they discovered their connection as alumni of Pius X. Q: What are your fondest memories of being a student here at Pius X? M: My fondest memories at Pius have to do with all the friends I made during my four years. I’m still in regular contact with many of them. I mostly remember playing in football and baseball games and hanging out in the hallways. I also had many different classes I enjoyed going to.

Q: What extracurricular activities were you involved in?

M: I was involved in Football and Baseball for all four years, and basketball for my first two years. I was always

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busy with games, practices, or lifting and conditioning almost year round. I was in Recycling club as well.

Q: How do you believe having a Catholic education impacted your future academic/professional pursuits?

M: My education at Pius was very beneficial in getting me off to a good start in college. Looking back, the way most classes were conducted held me accountable for my own success, and prepared me for the way college classes would be run. I think the way Pius integrates faith into the halls and the classrooms taught me a lot of things about myself. I learned a good work ethic at Pius, and that has served me well since I graduated. Also, I know that I always have a good support system.

Q: What advice do you offer current Pius X students who are aspiring scientists?

M: I would say to work hard, and you will have opportunities to pursue something meaningful. Opportunities will be presented to you when you least expect them.

alumni today

Alumni Spotlight

Nathaniel Cunningham ’95 Nathaniel Cunningham ’95 is the son of Sherri ’69 and Andrew Cunningham, and is one of 8 siblings all of whom graduated from Pius X. He received his undergraduate degree in Physics from the University of Notre Dame, and earned both his master’s and Ph.D. at the University of Colorado at Boulder. His doctoral work focused on designing and building astronomical instruments, and on understanding how very young massive stars interacted with each other in the past, as shown by the powerful outflows of gas that they launched. He has since worked with Hubble Space telescope observations of Pluto and other objects in the Solar System.

Nathaniel joined the Department of Physics and Astronomy at Nebraska Wesleyan University in 2010.

Nathaniel resides in Lincoln with his wife Staci their four children: Marianne (8), Ruth (6), Margaret (3) and Peter (1). They are members of St. Teresa Parish. Nathaniel and Staci currently host several Pius X students for the St. Teresa Godteen program, and Nathaniel helps coach his parish’s MathCounts competition students. His hobbies include fishing, computer programming, and singing in the St. Teresa choir with his daughters.

Q: What are your fondest memories of being a student at Pius X? N: I have a lot of memories of Pep Band, and being up on the stage in the gym. Also, I remember goofing off in physics class, and participating in some of the math competitions. One of my favorite experiences was Mrs. Coulter taking us to UNL Math Day and Creighton Math Day. Q: What extracurricular activities were you involved in?

N: I played the trombone in Band, and was in Jazz band, Madrigal Singers, Chess Club, Math Club, and Cross Country.

Q: Any favorite teachers/administrators?

N: I had many great teachers. Sister Anne Divis, Mr. Kent Reinhard who taught physics, Mrs. Mary Coulter, my Algebra teacher, and Fr. Townsend, who taught us religion and taught us to play bridge. He used to say to us: ‘Most of you will get married and all married people should know how to play bridge.’ Other favorites were Mrs. Hofeditz who taught World Literature, and Mr. Forycki taught AP U.S. History, which was just an awesome class. He also taught us how to write a good essay to prep us for AP testing.

Q: How do you believe having a Catholic education impacted your future academic/professional pursuits?

N: It was great to grow up and know that your Catholic faith can be threaded through your daily life, not just something to be compartmentalized. The opportunity to have the Sacraments and religion class threaded through – especially having the whole school united around the Mass – taught me that faith is what holds us together and not just something you do on your own.

Finally, the ability for teachers that are able to teach that there is natural law that underpins all of human life impacted my approach to science. Many scientists are relativistic and look at nature as nothing but matter. My faith makes my awe of nature a very complete human experience. It is not just something I think about at work. Thinking about science in the context of the beauty of God’s creation makes my research more profound and meaningful.

Q: What advice do you offer current Pius X students who are aspiring scientists?

N: Keep trying to find that corner of science that you really love.

Don’t be practical any sooner than you have to be. Chase it down because you love it. And try out summer research experiences in high school and especially in college.

March Madness Thunderbolt Style A new twist to March Madness has become a yearly tradition for Pius X High School Alumni and supporters.

The Alumni Basketball Tournament, held Aldrich this year Division-1984 on March 16-17, Seib saw 295 Division-1997 Alumni making up 36 teams to compete for bragging rights in five divisions.

With the exception of 1985 and 2008, every class year from 1983 Anderson Division-1995 through 2011 was Kelley repreDivision-1987 sented.

A special thank you goes to the Pius X Booster Club Team that also competed.

Now in its eighth year, the Alumni Basketball Tournament is an imporForycki Division-2002A tant fund raising event for the Pius X Booster Club. The new TV monitors in the Pius X Commons came from funds raised at past tournaments. The TVs offer communication to our students on daily and weekly announcements, as well as offer an opportunity to broadcast video at special events. Funds from this year’s tournament were used by the Booster Club to assist the basketball teams in purchasing a shooting machine.

Mark your calendar for next year’s tournament to be held on March 15-16, 2013.

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alumni today

A Family Tradition S

ince Pius X first opened it’s doors on October 1, 1956, thousands of students have proudly walked our halls, and more than 9,300 have earned diplomas. As the years pass, we are able to claim new alumni whose parents have also shared in our 56 year history. To celebrate this legacy, we are honored to feature graduates of the Class of 2012, who followed in their parent’s footsteps, instilled with values and knowledge from a Catholic education.

Tim Aylward ‘69 Jeffrey Aylward

Chad Krause ‘75

Kate (Barry) Culhane ‘72

Kevin Morehouse ‘74

Shauna Krause

Derrick Gossard

Therese (McCabe) Sack ‘78

Mona (Parra) Gossard ‘77

Susan Johnson ‘77 Hilde McKee

Lea Sack

Pat McCabe ‘79 Kevin McCabe

Thomas Davis ‘80

Kathleen (Vestecka) Sartore ‘80

Brian Dawson ‘77

Benjamin Woita

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Mary Dawson

Caleb Hile

Debbie (Rerucha) Hile ‘79

Paul Bruckner ‘80 Cole Sartore

John Morehouse ‘80 Madison Davis

Jordan Haas

Christopher Dawson ‘77

Margaret Johnson

Bridget (Dawson) Woita ‘79

Maggie Morehouse

John O’Neill ‘75

Brian Morehouse

Richard Gossard ‘76

Donald McKee ‘77

Joe Haas ‘74

Conor Culhane

Kelly (Anderson) Morehouse ‘80

Gabrielle Bruckner

Emily Dawson

Cathy (Morris) Dawson ‘80

Leah Hile

Martha (Stephens) Bruckner ‘80

Mark Heibel ‘80 Michael Heibel

Karen (Wiese) Heibel ‘82

Sean O’Neill

Cynthia WagnerWiebeck ‘77

Emily Wiebeck

Larry Logsdon ‘78 Caleb Logsdon

Patricia (Mulligan) Jones ‘79

Harlan Jones

Bryan Miller ‘80 Jeremy Miller

Kellie (Vrbka) Effken ‘81

Cassandra Effken

alumni today

Jennifer (Sweem) Powell ‘81

Teresa (Easley) Hansen ‘82

Lisa (Lierz) VerMaas ‘82

Kirk Sanders ‘81 Matthew Powell

Timothy Sanders

Connie (Scott) Sanders ‘81

Richard Costello ‘82 Bridget Hansen

Kyle VerMaas

Steven Zeplin ‘83 Matt Zeplin

Steven Smith ‘84

Julie (Wakefield) Zeplin ‘84

Lucy Barie

Abigail Burt

Dan Micek ‘88 Zach Micek

Nancy (Power) Micek ‘88

Shelly (Kidwell) Theil ‘90

Cami Mehl

Jerry Milburn ‘83 Logan Milburn

John Hartmann ‘84 Cameron Haecker

Jeff Carter ‘85 Nicholas Carter

Christina (Turek) Kullbom ‘86

Lisa (Messineo) Carter ‘86

Joshua Ernst

Eric Jones ‘92 Mitch Theil

Emilee Linebaugh

Erika Benes

Patrick Septhman

Geeena (Polivka) Mehl ‘86

Ann Essay

Mark Linebaugh ‘82

Pat Haecker ‘84

Monica (Scott) Sedlak ‘86

Phillip Essay ‘82

Dayton Stewart

Elizabeth Benes

Scott Spethman ‘83

Zakary Sedlak

Steve Burt ‘86

Todd Stewart ‘82

Terry Benes ‘83

David Sedlak ‘84 Raymond Smith

Diane (Wilson) Milburn ‘82

Trevor Milburn

Denise (Svoboda) Costello ‘83

Colin Costello

Koni (Westra) Barie ‘82

Tom Milburn ‘81

Ashton Jones

Stephanie (Roberts) Jones ‘94

Nikki Hartmann

Sarah (Kinney) Long ‘85

Ann (Breiner) Wackel ‘87

Teresa (Munguia) Macias ‘95

William Long

Hanna Wackel

Ariana Munguia

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Pius X to host All Honor Year Reunion, Establish Golden Thunderbolt Club

E

1957 1962 1967 1972 1977 1982 1987 1992 1997 2002 2007

leven graduating classes of Pius X High School will celebrate their class reunions in 2012. On July 22, Pius X is hosting its first All Honor Year Reunion.

Alumni and their immediate families from all honor year classes are invited to attend the event which will include Mass, brunch and school tours on the fourth Sunday of July.

In the past, each class would choose their own reunion weekend and events. Many classes are still choosing this option, but two classes will be combining their activities with the new school-wide reunion. Even if a class opts to hold their class reunion on another weekend, all alumni and their families from these classes are still invited to attend the All Honor Year Reunion on July 22.

The Alumni office also will be taking this opportunity to formally establish a Golden Thunderbolt Club. Alumni celebrating their 51st+ class reunion will be honored as members of this prestigious group and presented with a small token of honor. This year, all alumni from 1957-1961 will be included, and are invited to attend the All Honor Year Reunion.

An RSVP for those attending is being requested to assist with planning. Please write, call or e-mail the number attending and

All Honor Year

Reunion Sunday, July 22, 2012

the names of all attendees by July 7, 2012. The cost of the event is $8/person, or $25/immediate family. For more information about the All Honor Year Reunion or for help in scheduling your class reunion, please contact Kristin Heath, Alumni Director at 402.488.0931 or kristin.heath@piusx.net.

Class Reunion Schedules 1957 - 55th Class Reunion No information received

1962 - 50th Class Reunion Sept. 7-8, 2012

No information received

1967 - 45th Class Reunion No information received

1972 - 40th Class Reunion July 27-28, 2012

Join your class for golfing and dinner on Friday. There will also be an informal gathering on Saturday.

1977 - 35th Class Reunion June 23-24, 2012

Events will include a cash bar, appetizer buffet and dancing at the Oasis Room ($25/ person) on Saturday evening at 7 p.m. On Sunday at 11 a.m., Don McKee ’77 and Alumni Director Kristin Heath will be giving tours of Pius X High School.

1982 - 30th Class Reunion No information received

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1987 - 25th Class Reunion June 30, 2012

Can it really have been 25 years? Father Troy Schweiger ’87 will begin the reunion with Mass in the Pius X Chapel at 4 p.m., followed by a brief tour of the school. After dinner ‘on your own’ or with friends, join the class at the home of Mike and Ann ’87 (Hanigan) Kotopka for h’orderves and open bar beginning at 7:30 p.m. Cost is $20 per person. Email questions to piusxclassof87@ gmail.com.

1992 - 20th Class Reunion July 20-22, 2012

Gather Friday night at Red 9 for a causal evening with friends. Then Saturday morning at 10 a.m., bring the whole family for brunch and fun at Homes Lake Park (Shelter #1).

Saturday evening from 6:30-10 p.m. will be music, dinner and adult beverages (leave the kids with a sitter) at the Vuko Ranch. Cost is $50 per adult. Email Andyvuko@gmail.com or call 402.416.9952 with questions. Then don’t miss the first All Honor Year Reunion at Pius X High School on Sunday, July 22. Mass, brunch and school tours will highlight the event. Cost is $8 per person or $25/immediate family.

Reunion Information

More details about all of the reunions is available online at http://alumni.piusx.net/ reunionschedule.htm. If you would like to help organize a class reunion or need assistance, please contact Kristin (Edwards) Heath ’91, Alumni Director, at 402.488.0931, ext. 10132 or kristin.heath@piusx.net.

1997 - 15th Class R eunion No information received

2002 - 10th Class Reunion July 20-22, 2012

Gather Friday night at CAVO (7301 S 27th St) from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. Catch-up with friends, sip on signature cocktails, delight in the music of a DJ. No cover charge, cash bar. A Family Potluck Picnic will be held on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Antelope Park (27th & Capital Parkway, Shelter 1). The Saturday evening event will be held at Red9 in Stage9 (7 p.m.-2 a.m.) with a nacho bar, continuing with a live band in Lot9 (9:30 p.m.-2 a.m.) and a DJ in Cloud9 (10 p.m.-2 a.m.). Admission charge is $15, and must be purchased prior to July 9th (see website for details). Then, don’t miss the first All Honor Year Reunion at Pius X High School on Sunday, July 22. Mass, brunch and school tours will highlight the event. Cost is $8 per person or $25/immediate family.

alumni today

Bits & Pieces Classmates

Erin Lang ‘08, Ethan McWilliams ‘08, Kirsten Hattan ‘08, Arielle Byrnes ‘08 (and not pictured, Abby Gibbs ‘08) recently graduated from Rockhurst University in Kansas City, Missouri.

All five have gone to school together the last eight years - through all of high school and college. How inspirational that their bond established in the halls of Pius X kept them in touch throughout their college experience as well. God is good!

1960s

Steven Lukas ’63 is retired, on the board of two non-profits, and a single father of three sons.

1980s

Sister Mary Bernadette ’83 (Denise Lenz) recently moved to Virginia and is in the process of transferring from the School of Christ the King to a Contemplative Order.

Chris Martin ’87 married Mary Elizabeth Ennis in April 1996. They have one child, Jesse Carl Tremewan Martin, born December 15, 1999. Chris has won the following titles: The World Championships of the board game Diplomacy in 1998, as well as North American Champion in ’98, ’99, ’11. Chris received his BM in Musical Theatre from The Catholic University of America in 1993; his MA in American Dances Studies from Florida State University in 2002, and his PhD in Theatre & Performance studies from the University of Maryland in 2009. Chris has also been in the following races: Finisher Ironman Wisconsin 2009 and Ironman Coeur D’Alene 2011 (11h 30 & 11h 08). Chris currently is a Deputy Project Manager for K4 Solutions in Rockville, MD.

1990s

Rachel (Krause) ’93 was married on May 29, 2010 to Bob Rybinski. Their son, Hayden Kyle, was born October 12, 2011, and joins his big sister, Morgan Krause (16). Rachel is a Medicare Billing Specialist for Catholic Health Initiatives.

Erin (Kruger) Haefle ’98 and her husband Douglas have been married for 6 years and have two daughters: Berkleigh (3) and Harper (6 months).

2000s

Evan Reinert ’03 graduated from Southeast Community College Milford with an Associate’s Degree in Auto Collision Technology in 2005. He moved to Los Angeles in July 2005 and Evan has been working in the motion picture industry since 2006 for a picture car company Cinema Vehicle Services. They build and rent cars, trucks or anything that has wheels to TV shows, movies and commercials all over the U.S. Michael ’03 and Caitlin (May) ’04 Riordan are family teachers at Boys Town. They have 2 daughters; Maria May (2 ½) and Stella Therese (1 ½).

Greg Zuerlein ’06, a Missouri Western kicker, received first-team Division II All-American honors.

Greg has led the nation in field goals per game (2.30) and broke NCAA and MIAA records with 21 consecutive field goals made.

He set a school record with a 58yard field goal during a regularseason win against Northwest Missouri State.

Sean Murphy ‘07 participated in his first official music gig since moving to the east coast. He was hired to play bass in December 2011 at a theater in Beach Haven NJ. He is played in a show called “Plaid Tidings”. It was a holiday show based on “Forever Plaid”.

Sara Berens ’08 graduated from Hastings College on May 19, 2012 with a BA in Health Systems. She will be attending Methodist College Accelerated Nursing program in January 2013.

Mollie Lacy ’08, a Washburn University (Topeka, Kansas) middle blocker, was named a Capital One 1st Team Academic All-American. Mollie received 2nd team honors last year, and is a 4.0 nursing major.

Kathleen McBride ’08 was named homecoming queen at Benedictine College.

Kaley Wieser ’08 has been selected into the Doane College chapter of Omicron Delta Kappa (ODK). ODK is the oldest national leadership honorary and their members are chosen based on their significant leadership in one of the Five Phases of Campus Life: Scholarship, Athletics, Campus Organizations, Media, and the Fine Arts. Students must be in the top 35% of the junior or senior class to apply, and were chosen for ODK based on their leadership to campus throughout their Doane career.

2010s

Rosa Egge ’11 is now at St. Olaf College in Minnesota. She not only is a member of the St. Olaf Orchestra, but she is the principal oboist (first chair). The St. Olaf

Orchestra was featured on a live broadcast of Garrison Keillor’s “Prairie Home Companion” a nationwide broadcast on public radio. The orchestra played a prominent role and at several times Rosa’s oboe playing was clearly heard.

Abbey Hellem ’11 is a Freshman at the University of North Alabama in Florence, Ala., and is playing soccer. The Lions Women’s soccer team won the Gulf South Coast conference title for the first time in the schools 15 year program history. Nov 4-6, UNA won their conference tournament for the first time and an automatic bid into the NCAA Women’s Division II National soccer tournament. They ended their season with a 17-4 record in the first round of the NCAA tournament in Orlando, Fla. Picture is of her team with the Conference trophy.

We want to hear from you and share your news!

Please complete this form and send it to Pius X Alumni News, 6000 A Street, Lincoln, NE 68510; e-mail alumni@piusx.net or submit on-line at http://alumni.piusx.net/updateform.asp.

Class _________ First Name _ ________________ Maiden __________________ Last Name _ ____________________________ Spouse ____________________ Address _ ________________________ City/State/Zip _ ____________________ Phone (h) _________________ (w) _________________ (c) ________________ E-mail 1 _ _________________________________________________________ Info_______________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________

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alumni today

In Remembrance Robert Sparks ’62, passed away on February 22, 2011. He is survived by his wife Gail; daughters, Pam Brunkard and Kathleen Hinrichs and his son Michael.

Grandchildren, Abbey, Lindsey and Sara Hinrichs, and Emily Brunkard.

law, Andrea and William “Pete” Peterson, grandchildren, Trevor ‘13, Carley, Haley Peterson; daughter and son-in-law, Cindy and Merlin Hammond, grandchildren Trenton, Meghan Hammond; sisters, brothers; numerous nieces and nephews.

Raymond P. Szelag, 55, passed away on November 14, 2011.

He is survived by his wife, Kim (Fitzekam) ‘76; sons, daughterin-law: Casey and Chasity Carlbom, Raymond Paul Szelag II; mother, Pauline Zybeck; sisters, brothers-in-law: Wanda and David Vanderlee, Susan and John Hilchey, Anne Gross, Theresa and Jack Kershner; brothers, sistersin-law: Walter and Ann Szelag, David and Kris Szelag, Phillip ‘77 and Keli Fitzekam, Brett and Lou Anne ’79 Daugherty, Mike and Carole ‘80 Owen, Jesse and Teresa Cortinas; parents-in-law: Douglas and Marilyn Fitzekam, Judy Ivie; many nieces and nephews.

Canuto “Ken” Sanchez ’62 was called home by his Lord and Savior on Thursday, November 17, 2011. He is survived by his wife, Janelle; children, spouses: Gabriel and Angela Sanchez, Micaela and Alan Boling, Jennifer Von Busch, Leonard and Natasha Mason; 12 grandchildren; mother, Micaela Garibay Sanchez; brothers and sisters: Nene E. Martinez, Napoleon and Petra Sanchez, Gregoria S. Guzman, Juanita Cruz, Jesus and Guadalupe Sanchez, Esperanza and Flavio Gonzalez, Olga Sanchez, Maria Herlinda Sanchez, Criztoval and Naida Sanchez, Jose and Valerie Sanchez, Carmela Sanchez de Jimenez and Patricio Jimenez; numerous cousins, nephews, nieces, aunts, and uncles.

Clifford Larry Vice, passed away on November 15, 2011. He is survived by his wife, Juanita (Aquirre) ‘57; step-daughter, Kari Sigerson and husband, Dirk Kaufman and their daughter Eva Belle, sisters: Melva Sage, Janice Keller, Marilyn Blex (Jim); brother, Merlin Vice (Cris); several nieces and nephews Albert C. Montanez Jr., 65, passed away on November 17, 2011. He is survived by his wife, Sally Montanez; son and daughter-in-law, Mike and Tonya Montanez, grandchildren, Trey’11, Madison ‘14, McKenna Montanez; daughter and son-in-

Dorothy Y. Hubertus, 87, passed away on November 17, 2011.

She is survived by her daughter, son-in-law: Paula S. and Donald D. Kucera; son, daughter-inlaw: David G. and Kathleen Hubertus; granddaughters and grandsons-in-law: Katharine E. ‘99, and Eric R. Walker, Anne E ‘00 and Andrew D. Munger; grandson: David M. Kucera ‘05; great granddaughter: Maddison R. Walker and another great grandchild expected soon; two nephews.

Ethel B. Sovereign, 88, passed away on November 16, 2011.

She is survived by her children: Larry (Jenna) Sovereign, Darrell (Jan) Soverign, Gordon Sovereign, and Jolene (Rick) Masten; eleven grandchildren including Nate Sovereign ’92, Joshua Sovereign ’93, Zach Sovereign ’99 and Sarah Sovereign ‘04; twenty six great grandchildren; four great-great grandchildren; a brother; and many loving nieces and nephews.

David ’88 and Glenda Schnase; son, Mark ‘91; grandchildren, Wyatt and Sophia Schnase; many nephews, nieces, and friends.

Margaret M. Spitsen, passed away on November 16, 2011.

She is survived by her son, Jim; daughter-in-law, Kathy; grandchildren, Joe ‘00, Nick ’03 and Matt ‘06; and great grandchild, Isabel Buss.

Richard Schafer, 82, passed away on December 12, 2011.

He is survived by his wife, Betty (McCurdy) Schafer ’51 of Cathedral High School; four sons, William (Phyllis) Schafer, Kenneth (Vickie) Schafer, James (Charrise) Schafer, and Edward (Kathy) Schafer; three daughters, Theresa (Bob) Kivi, Susan (Dave) Blocher, and Rebecca DeMelfi; 13 grandchildren, and five greatgrandchildren.

Kelly Stammer passed away on November 28, 2011 from a brain aneurysm. He is survived by his two children; Becke Galarza Stammer ’02 and Zachary Stammer ‘01.

Robert L. Ebbeka Sr., 65, passed away on December 2, 2011. He is survived by his daughter, Kristen L. Ebbeka ‘85; son and daughterin-law, Robert L. Jr.’88 and Amy Ebbeka; grandchildren, Cole, Levi, Nicholas Ebbeka; sister and brother-in-law, Diane and Jake Jacobsen; brother and sister-inlaw, Gerald and Dee Ebbeka; sister and brother-in-law, Sue and Jim Lottman; mother-in-law, June Piccolo; many brothers and sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews.

William M. “Bill” Schnase, 85, passed away December 3, 2011.

He is survived by his wife, Mary Jane, son and daughter-in law,

Brothers to Play Professional Soccer The Polak family is starting a pro soccer family tradition. Less than one week after former student Tyler Polak was selected in the Major League Soccer SuperDraft, his brother Nate Polak ’08 was taken in the fourth round of the MLS supplemental draft.

Nate, a senior from Hastings College, was selected by the New York Red Bulls in the fourth round, becoming the first player in GPAC history to be picked in the MLS draft. He suffered a broken jaw during preseason workouts, and now has a tryout with the Minnesota Stars of the North American Soccer League.

Nate was named the 2011 GPAC offensive player of the year. He has Nate Polak ’08 also been named the state college male athlete of the year, and received NAIA All-American first-team honors. Nate helped lead the Broncos to two NAIA championship appearances, guiding Hastings to the 2010 title.

Tyler was selected in the second round of the SuperDraft by the New England Revolution.

Aaron Polak ’03 also played for Hastings, and was the 2006 GPAC player of the year and a twotime NAIA All-American.

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Theodore “Ted” Glen Turner, 55, passed away on December 10, 2011. He is Survived by his mother, Jeanette (Becks); wife Mary; daughters: Katie (Ren) Aller, Mandi (Joe) Scdoris, and Amy ’06; two grandsons; his brother, Tony (Cora) Turner, and nieces and nephews.

Betty K. McBurney, 86, passed away on December 14, 2011. She is survived by her son, Kevin C. ‘75, and fiance, Jeanette Milius; two grandchildren, Jenny (Tim) Buchholtz, and Patrick McBurney, and fiance, Tami Herman; sister, Mary Jo Stalder; nieces and nephews.

Naoma B. “Pat” Wisch, 88, passed away on December 14, 2011. She is survived by her children, spouses, Joan and Gary Stover; Lanny and Margaret and grandchildren Tim and Kelly Stover; Brook and Suzann Bugenhagen; Ryan and Alison Stover, and Joshua Wisch ’00.

Yolanda Dakan, 51, passed away on December 15, 2011. She is survived by her husband, Doug; caring daughters, Lisa ‘04, Krystal, Melissa, and Lora; grandson, Blake; dad, Frank Martinez; sister, Debbie Martinez, and nieces and nephews.

Matthew David Fedon, passed away on December 15, 2011. He is survived by his parents, Mark and Wanda Fedon; brother, Kevin Fedon; sister and brother-in-law, Angie ‘96 and Mike Wassenmiller; niece, Katie Wassenmiller; uncle and aunt, Carl Fedon and Sandy Lorenzen; cousin, Michelle Fedon; and girlfriend, Heather Maley.

Martin Donald Connealy, 78, passed away on December 25, 2011. He is survived by sons, Bill (Renee), Jerry (Sharon), Jack (Jane – former Pius X teacher), Mick (Kathy) and Terry (Lisa); daugh-

alumni today

ters, Susan (Bob) Huffman, and Kathy (Steve) Cleveland. Twentyfive grandchildren proudly called Marty grandfather including the following Pius X graduates; Tara Connealy ‘02, Allison Connealy ‘03 and Anne Connealy ’06; and seven great grandchildren carry on the family legacy.

Mary Lou (McManus) Green, a 1950 Cathedral Graduate passed away on December 25, 2011 at the age of 78.

JoAnn Focht McGovern ‘64 passed away peacefully on December 29th after a 14 month battle with pancreatic cancer. JoAnn is survived by her husband, Tom ‘63 and three boys: Jon (wife Kelly); Brett (wife Patti) and Casey (wife Jessica); seven grandchildren; Wyatt Thomas 8, Avery Quinn 7, Grant Major 6, Ryan Duffy 4, Jack Foley 4, Kelsey Flynn 2 and Erin Mae 1. Joann’s siblings include Jane ’61 (husband Bob Lyons), Jack ‘65 (wife Ellen), Gary, (husband Peter Birkirts), Mary (husband Stephan Mattyasovsky) Lynn ’71, Bob ’76 (wife Hollie), Chris Focht, Tom Focht (wife Tracy), Karen (husband Peter Ryerson).

Annette S. Markin ‘74 passed away on December 30, 2011. She is survived by husband, Rodney S. Markin; sons, Nicholas (Kara), Christopher (Suzanne) Markin; sister, Kathleen Starkweather ‘68; brother, Steven Olson ‘66; nieces, Katie and Maggie Starkweather; brother-in-law, Douglas (Kathleen) Markin; other loving family and friends.

Dean Henggeler, 84, passed away on January 4, 2012. He is survived by his daughter Del Ann Divis ’67 and son Darrell ’71 and the following grandchildren who are Pius X graduates; Amberly (Divis) ’96 and Matthew Byington ’96, Bridget (Divis) ’99 and David Easley ’98, Keith Henggeler ’04 and Evan Divis ’05.

Dale E. Spaulding, 77, passed away on January 3, 2012. He is survived by his wife, Shirley; daughter and son-in-law, Chris and Robert Larsen; son, Jeff Spaulding; daughter and sonin-law, Becky and Mark Mroz; daughter and son-in-law, Barb and Jeff Kadavy; grandchildren: Erin Sharpe, Shelby Ferris, Seth Spaulding, Matt ‘02, Andrew,

Nikki ’06 and Lukas Mroz, Stephanie and Angela Kadavy; six great grandchildren.

’10, Marie Bertrand ’12 and Kristopher Hollamon ’12 and six great grandchildren.

Dennis R. Baumert passed away on January 10, 2012. He is survived by his beloved family, wife of 56 years, Pat, and children, Jim ’75 (Krystal), Denise ’76 Alfonsin (Jim), Sue ‘77, Marti ’79 Jeffrey (Rich), Tom ’80 (Melissa), Joe ‘83 (Tami Jacobs), Karen Bentz ‘85; grandchildren, Heidi ’10 and Hanna ‘14 Baumert, Mary, Denny, Anna, and Nicky Alfonsin, Spencer Baumert, Nikki Schwartz and Amanda Kuhn (Rodney, Jr.), Joey Baumert, Morgan and Jarrod Jacobs, and Natalie Bentz; great grandchildren, Jack St. George, Haylie and Mylie Kuhn, and Leloo Fisher; and many, many extended family members and friends.

Bernadette A. Bell, 90, passed away January 21, 2012. She is survived by her daughter-in-law, Judy K. Bell; grandchildren, William R. Bell and wife Claudia, Kenneth Bell and Lora, Mark Bell and wife Cheryl of Lincoln; eleven great grandchildren including Megan Bell ’04, Mariah Bell ’08 and Zach Bell ‘13; and nine great great grandchildren.

Richard D. Spellman, 81 passed away on January 18, 2012. He is survived by daughters, Kathleen (Pat) Bartek, Kristi (Jim) Bertrand, Karin (George) Peale, Kelli (Matthew) Hollamon; son, Mike; 14 grandchildren including the following Pius X graduates; Anthony Bertrand ’04, Erin Bertrand ’06, Claire Bertrand

Guy E. Brubaker, 92, passed away on January 18, 2012. He is survived by his family, Carol and Bob Mullendore; grandchildren, Matt Mullendore ‘94 and wife Kelly, Mike Mullendore ‘98, and Carrie Mullendore ‘04; great grandchildren, Shelby, Jacob, and Zeke Mullendore.

Donna M. Wood, 83, passed away on January 20, 2012. She is survived by daughters, Kathleen ’67 (Steve) Ruby, Cindy Graham ‘68, Mary Jo ’69 (Mike) Hussey, Lori Wood, and Kris Wood; son, Terry (Lynne) Wood; 21 grandchildren including those who went to Pius X; Paul Hussey ’89,

Births Becke (Stammer) Galarza ’02 and her husband Isidro welcomed their new baby girl Sophia born on February 9, 2011. She joins her older siblings; Natalie is 8 and Diedrich is 4. Becke’s husband graduated boot camp and AIT training for Nebraska Army National Guard this spring.

Andrew Heath ’89 and Kristin welcomed their new baby boy; Trevor Joseph Cartmill Heath on October 10, 2011 weighing in at 7lb 9oz and 20 3/4 inches.

Mark Burt ’98 and his wife Miranda had a healthy baby girl at about 4 a.m. on November 12, 2011. Sally Elizabeth was born at home, during a very exciting but scary adventure as this was not planned to be a home birth. This makes number four for them.

Matt Cashore ’90 and his wife Maria welcomed their new baby daughter; Madeline Leokadija on November 24, 2011.

Maria Van Etten ’03 and Mitch Benes ’04 welcomed their new baby girl; Gemma Isabel on January 14, 2012. She weighed in at 5 lbs. and 1.7 ounces.

Maria is Lay Campus Minster at Pius X.

Kimber Bouwens ’05 welcomed her son; Corey Christopher on January 19, 2012.

Leah (Groepper) ’95 and John Elsener ‘97 welcomed William James on March 31st.

He joins big sister Emily Carol. They live in Seattle Washington where Leah is a physical therapist and John is a high school English teacher.

Kevin Coulter ’95 and his wife Mindy welcomed a baby girl, Brooklyn Elizabeth, on February 28, 2012. They reside in Omaha and Kevin works for Peter Kiewit.

Katie (Reinsch) ’99 and Britt Hayes ’00 welcome their new little boy; George Harold Joyce Hayes on May 18, 2012, weighing in at 8 lbs. and 1 oz.

He joins his older siblings Matilda and August. Katie is a Spanish teacher here at Pius X High School.

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alumni today Beth Hussey ’95, Chris Hussey ’97, Jordan Hussey ’10 and Joseph Hussey ’13 and 21 great grandchildren.

Gerald H. Buettner, 81, passed away on January 22, 2012. He is survived by his sons, Jerry (Fran), Tom and Randy; daughters, Edy (Roger) Clark, Mary (Mike) Cords, and Blinda (Tom) Weber; 14 grandchildren including the following Pius X graduates: Gerald ’94, Janelle ’96 and Jolene ‘98; three great grandchildren.

Arlene A. Worster, 61, passed away on January 25, 2012, surrounded by her family, after a three year battle with cancer. She

is survived by her husband of 41 years, George J. Worster, Jr.; mother, Claudette Brennan; son and daughter-in-law, Brian ’89 and Michelle Worster; daughter and son-in-law, Jaime ‘94 and Paul Cunningham ‘94; five grandchildren, Allison and Brian E. Worster, Jr., Zachary ‘14, Nathan and J. Wyatt Cunningham.

Susan M. “Susie” Schrepf passed away on January 30, 2012. She is survived by a sister, Sheryl ’66; brothers, Tim Schrepf, Tom Schrepf, Pat Schrepf ‘ 71; and many cousins, nieces, nephews, and a grand-nephew.

Thomas W. Christiansen ‘68 passed away on February 3, 2012.

He is survived by his wife Cathy; son, Brian; daughter, Laura; Laura’s husband, Brandon Champion; beloved three week old grandson, Brayden Robert Champion; sisters, Kay Christiansen ’66 and Susan Root and husband, Randy Root; many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Nell Jacqueline (Jackie) Ridler Dwerlkotte passed away February 3, 2012. She is survived by her two children, Dorothy Theresa (Dotti) Romero and her husband, Ron, and David LeRoy Dwerlkotte; grandchildren, Ronnie

(Nikki) Romero, Roxie Romero ‘93 and husband, Scott Ohler, Matt Dwerlkotte, Brent Dwerlkotte and fiance, Laura Rittel; great-grandchildren, Kirra, Tyson, and Kaci Romero, and Jack Ohler.

Robert ‘Bob’ Frieden, 92, passed away on February 3, 2012. He is survived by his wife Nina M. Frieden; daughter, Linda Gagner (Melvin); grandchildren, Toni Boardman ‘85 and Edward Gagner ‘93; great-grandson, Ben Boardman; sister, Dorothy Ellison and many nieces and nephews.

Cheryl (Navin) Berberet ’62 passed away on February 3, 2012.

She is survived by her husband

Marriages Liz Maly ’01 and Pryce Wigginton were married on April 30, 2011 in Lincoln.

The couple resides in St. Louis Park, Minn., where Liz works in marketing for ING and Pryce is a mechanical CAD designer for MTS Systems Corporation.

Kari Charlson ’98 and Kevin Sims of Louisville, Ky. were united in marriage on July 2 at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church in Louisville, Ky. The couple resides in Louisville.

Adam Hilkemann ’03 and Erica Overmyer were married on July 16, 2011.

Adam graduated from Washington University School of Law in St. Louis in 2010. He is employed with the law firm of Akin Gump in Dallas. Erica graduated from Rice University in Houston in May with a master’s degree in music performance. She is an oboe instructor. The couple resides in Dallas.

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Rachel High ’06 and Kyle Bruns were united in marriage on July 23 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Lincoln. A reception was held at the Rococo.

Rachel and Kyle graduated from Rockhurst University in Kansas City, Mo. They are third-year medical students with Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences. Rachel and Kyle reside in Fort Myers, Fla. Bob Francis ‘02 and Alison Deatherage were married on September 17, 2011 in Waynesville, N.C. Kari Charlson ’98 and Kevin Sims of Louisville, Ky. were united in marriage on July 2 at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church in Louisville, Ky. The couple resides in Louisville.

Kristin (Cunningham) ‘99 and Corey Minchow ‘03 were married on July 30th, 2011 at St. James Catholic Church in Omaha, NE. Corey and Kristin both work as recruiters for Werner Enterprises based in Omaha.

Allison O’Neill ‘07 and Brandon Hajek ‘06 were married Sept. 3 at St. Peter’s Church in Lincoln.

Allison is a math teacher at J.C. Harmon High School and Brandon is an assistant PGA golf professional at Ironhorse Golf Club. They reside in Overland Park, Kan., and will honeymoon in Cabo San Lucas this summer.

Daniel Haden ’03 and Katelan Cronin ’04 were married on October 22, 2011 at St. John’s the Apostle Church in Lincoln, Neb. Dan has a degree in Philosophy and was a FOCUS missionary for three years. He is currently pursuing a degree in Accounting and Finance at Benedictine College. He is residence director for Benedictine College as well. Kate graduated from Benedictine College in 2008 with a degree in Elementary Education and Special Education.

She is currently a 7th grade Special Education teacher for the Atchison Public Middle Schools, head Cross Country coach, and head girls Track coach. The couple resides in Atchison, Kansas.

Nate Cronin ’01 and Suzie Schierbrock were married on November 12, 2011 at St. Anne’s Catholic Church in Vail, IA. Nate graduated from Metro State University in Denver with a degree in Business and Finance. He currently works for Lincoln Financial Group in Omaha processing short term disability claims for the company. Suzie received a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Mass Communications with an emphasis in Public Relations from Creighton University in Omaha. She works for the Knot.com as an Internet Quality Assurance Coordinator. They reside in Fremont, NE. Stephanie Howell ‘05 and Joseph Haschke were married Jan. 7 at St. Teresa’s Catholic Church in Lincoln.

Grant Schmailzl ’05 and Jen Lambrecht were married on April 14, 2012, at North American Martyrs Catholic Church in Lincoln.

alumni today of forty-five years, Jerry, and two daughters, Heather M. (Delores) and Meghan E. (Ron). Cheryl is also survived by two brothers, John F. ‘66 (Sharon) and Philip X. (Debie), granddaughter Ryan McKenzie Berberet, and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and in-laws.

Maria Tulia Brigida Trinidad de Jesus Downing PhD, 87, passed away on February 16, 2012. She leaves her husband Jim; Liz ’73 (Gary) Estler; Rose ‘74 (Terry) Russell, Jennifer Russell; Marti Downing ‘80, Gloria and Maria Rosa Quiros, Maruja Gil, Cecy (Foster) Easley; the Quiros Amador, Diaz Quiros, Easley Quiros, Gil Quiros, Quiros Carvajal, Quiros Quiros, Quiros Rodriguez, Quiros Solis families, cousins, extended family, colleagues and friends in the U.S., Costa Rica, Mexico, Spain, Canada, Germany and around the world. She was a Professor of Geography and Spanish and was a very faithful and active Catholic having served, among many other things, as Chair, International Affairs Commission Lincoln Diocesan Council of Catholic Women. The family wanted the following links to her obituary listed as well as a link to her slide show on line http://www. currentobituary.com/Memory. aspx?Memory_ObitdID=106435 and http://4-pawsanimalshelter.org/ mtd/index.php.

Helen M. Horak, 92, passed away on February 16, 2012. She is survived by her daughter, Patty ‘71 (Earl) Haddow; son, Mick ‘73 (Diane ‘73); two grandsons, Michael ’94 (fiance Maggie Shirey) and Shaun ‘97 (wife Sheila) Horak; two great granddaughters, Samantha and Emma Horak; sisters, Maryann Sharrar and Tina Johnson; brother, John Benishek.

John J. Janecek, 67, passed away on February 20, 2012 at home surrounded by family after a 10 year courageous battle fighting cancer. He is survuved by his wife, Linda ’66 Janecek; son and daughter-in-law, John Jr. and Christi Janecek; daughters and sons-in-law: Shannon and Rick Lassek, Dana and Paul Paxton; step-daughter, Michelle Wiles ’91 and special friend J.J.; step-daughter and husband, Amy ‘92 and Todd Hellerich; 13 grandchildren; brother and sister-in-law, Marcel and Sharon Janecek.

Richard L. Spence, 78, passed away on February 18, 2012. He is survived by his wife, Phyllis; sons, Steven ‘78, Joseph, Jeffrey ’81 and Gregory ‘83; sister, Holly Spence; nieces and nephews.

John Joseph Curran, 55, passed away on February 20, 2012. He is survived by his sons, Andrew Curran ‘01, and Dustyn Curran ’03; daughters, Jaime Curran, Caitlin Curran, and Bobbie Curran; grandchildren, Josiah and Mariah Curran; brothers, Edward P. Curran (Jo), Fr. Francis T. Curran, Robert M. Curran (Julie), and Larry S. Curran (Cindy); sister in law, Connie Curran, and sisters, Sally Mobley, Mary Gourlay (Jim), Vicki Karre (Ted), Jane Curran Felcone, (Michael), Julie Platek (Rege), Eileen Thibault (Duane), ‘K.C.’ Kathryn Bethel (Rob).

Shirley Mae Allder, 85, passed away on February 23, 2012. Shirley is survived by her husband, Dale; children, Jerry (Sharon ‘72) Allder, Jackie (Noble) Swanson, Harley (Debby) Allder, Kathryn Allder, Patty (Raul) Alfonso, Roy (JoAnn) Allder, Larry (Jo) Allder, Steven Allder, Theresa (Joe) Madden, and David (Nancy ‘84) Allder; 13 grandchildren including the following who graduated or are attending Pius X: Vincent Swanson ’92, Timothy Swanson ’93, Bradford Swanson ’96 and Dale Allder ’13; 11 great grandchildren.

Ralph J. Perkinton, 90, passed away February 27, 2012. He is survived by his children; Ann Perkinton, Joan Scdoris ’72, Monsignor John Perkinton ’75, and Rex Perkinton ’79; 6 grandchildren including the following who are Pius X graduates; Jennifer Scdoris ’91, John Scdoris ’97, Mary Culjat ’98 and Joe Scdoris ’01 and 18 great grandchildren.

Albina “Albie” Sisel, 92, passed away on March 3, 2012. She is survived by her son, Bud and wife Donna Sisel; daughters, Beverly and husband Lad Dolezal, and Monica and husband Lawrence Polivka; seven grandchildren, Randy ‘80 and Sue Dolezal, Russ ’87 and Brenda Dolezal, Shelly and Ed Trojan, Becky and Brian Roseland, Ryan Sisel and special friend Brenda, Larry and Mandie Polivka, Erin Kay and Tim Pelan; 15 great grandchildren.

Betty Louise (Leif ) Treu, 79, passed away on March 4, 2012.

She is survived by her sons and daughters-in-law: Mark ’77 and Chris Treu; Adam ’92 and Tracy Treu, daughter: Lori J. Hetrick ’82; grandchildren: Matthew, Olivia, Kemper, and Finley Treu; Nate, Emma and Cole Hetrick.

Brother and sister-in-law, Jim and Ernestine Leif; sister-in-law, Annie Leif.

Joseph James Caruso, 97, passed away on February 28, 2012.

Joseph is survived by sons and daughter-in-law, James, Thomas and Pamela; grandchildren, J.P. ‘86 and wife Anne, Julie, Megan ’89 and husband James, Amy and husband Neill, Christopher and wife Bridget, and Nicole and husband Matthew; sister-inlaw, Frances Rozzano; 13 great grandchildren, and 25 nieces and nephews.

Adolph J. Furasek, 88, passed away March 7, 2012. He is survived by his wife, Alice; daughter and son-in-law, Patricia and Ken Webb; sons and daughters-inlaw, Larry and Carol Furasek, Richard and Diane Furasek; nine grandchildren including the following Pius X graduates: Todd Furasek ’95, Jill Jakub ’97, Michelle Reinke ’97, Michael Furasek ’99, Aaron Furasek ’00 and Mark Furasek ’04; 14 great grandchildren; sister, Helen Potter; numerous nieces and nephews.

Tony A. Vrchota, a 1944 Cathedral High School Graduate, passed away Friday, March 9th.

Tony is survived by his daughters and son-in-law, Pat and Tom McGinty, Rose Westerlund and Terri Vrchota; sons and daughtersin-law, Mike and Mary Vrchota & Tom “TJ” and Charla Vrchota; grandchildren, Lori Vrchota, Lisa and Tim Morfeld, Tim ’01 and Liz Vrchota, Katy Vrchota, Tony and Danielle Vrchota; great grandchildren, Emma, Tatumn and Tucker; and sister, Dorothy Stransky; and nieces and nephews.

Helen Catherine Augustin, 93, passed away March 13, 2012.

Helen is survived by her son, Larry (Deanna) Augustin; three daughters, Patricia (Wayne) Davis, Sandra (Dan) Reisdorff, and Carole (Rick) Hoyt; 16 grandchildren including the following Pius X Alumni: Nathan Reisdorff ’89, Kerri Reisdorff ’90, Katherine Christensen ’96 and Andrew Reisdorff ’98; 30 great grandchildren with a new addition anticipated in May, and two great-great grandchildren.

spouses, Trudy (Richard) Stodola, Phyllis (Ernie) Haag, Nancy (Joel) Staley, Steve (Sonia) Jambor, Jim (Anita) Jambor; 19 grandchildren including those who graduated or will attend Pius X High School: Jason Jambor ’98, Abigail Jambor ’00, Tyler Jambor ’08 and Austin Jambor ’16; and six great grandchildren.

Gaylord Jerome Becker, 80, passed away on March 21, 2012.

Gaylord is survived by his wife, Marilue (Henning) Becker, former teacher of Pius X High School; son, Christopher ’85 (Susan) Becker; grandchildren, Nicholas and Jacob, Carol Ann ’89 (Robert) Goodding; brother, Rex (Judy) Becker, Louis (Linda) Becker; sister, Darlene (Duane) Daniel; brother, Lester (Linda) Becker; and many nephews, nieces, great nephews, great nieces, and dear friends.

Jonathan “Jon” T. Briggs ‘66, passed away on March 27, 2012.

Jon is survived by his wife, Jo Anna Briggs; his children, Cassandra Briggs, Jody Leonard; stepchildren, Matthew Svoboda, Gretchen Cosier; son-inlaw, Kent Leonard, Brandy Best; son-in-law, Henry Best, Michael Briggs; son-in-law, Jeremy Cosier; his brother, Bill Goodman; sisterin-law, Joann Goodman; sisterin-law, Micki Larson-Briggs. He was grandfather to Chris, Julia, and Tosten. He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Merle (Chambers) Briggs, and his brother, Steve Briggs ‘64.

Edwin C. Perry, 80, passed away on March 27, 2012. Edwin is survived by wife Joan (Hanson), a 1949 Cathedral High School Graduate; sons, James (Gail) and Greg (Genelle), Jack (Missy); daughters, Marcy (Steve) Mills, Judy (Rand) Phipps, and Priscilla (James) Hefflefinger. Edwin had 19 grandchildren and one great grandson to be born.

Raymond J. Fiala, 84, passed away on Mar. 17, 2012. He is survived by a son and daughterin-law, Jerry and Cindy Fiala; granddaughters, Jenny ’99 (Ryan) Trausch, Brenda ’00 (Brian) Wandzilak, Beki Fiala ’03 and Alyssa Fiala ’06; great grandchildren, Isaac, Claire and Lucy Trausch, Evan Wandzilak.

James J. “Jim” Ryan, 77, passed away, April 2, 2012. He is survived by his sons, Bill ’77, Pat ‘84 (Marcie) and Tim ‘88; daughter, Kathy Berry ‘79; three grandchildren, Jeff (Jen), Jessica, and Wesley; one great grandson, Traeton; sisters, Theresa Ryan, and Julie Hoaglin; nephews, nieces, and many cousins. Proceeded in death wife JoAnn (Welsh) Ryan Cathedral High class of 1956.

Ernest Jambor, 94, passed away on March 18, 2012. He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Jeannette Jambor; children and

Nancy Lawlor Jenkins, 83, passed away on April 10, 2012.

She is survived by family, including sons and daughters-in-law;

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alumni today Michael and Carol (Clifford) ‘80 Jenkins, Jeffrey and Lynn Jenkins; grandchildren, Jared, Danny ‘07, Abbie, Hanna, Nick ‘11 and Scott ’13 Jenkins.

Bill Knight passed away on April 11, 2012. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Virginia; son and daughter-in-law, Doug ‘68 and Carrie (Irvin) ’68 Knight; daughter, Carol ‘70; daughter and son-in-law, Kathy ’74 and Scott Cather; daughter, Mary Knight ‘77, seven grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren. Preceded in death: son, David ’74.

Martin R. Grgurich, 46, passed away on April 23, 2012. He is survived by his wife, Joyce; father, Robert Grgurich; mother, Helene Grgurich; siblings (spouse), Mark ’75 (Linda), Matthew ’77 (Brenda), Mike ‘78, Deborah ’79 (Ramon) Olivier, and Cathy ‘82 (Chuck) Turner; sisters-inlaw, Sandi Jorgensen, and Joanne Badura; mother-in-law, Irene Badura; nine nieces, five nephews, five great nieces, and two great nephews.

Herbert E. Honke, 88, passed away on April 25, 2012. He is survived by his wife, Mildred L. Honke; children, Michael P. and Martha Honke,; Vicki A. and Duane Hodge,; and Terry L. and Connie Honke,; grandchildren, Heather (John) Schroder, Beth (Derek) Babel,; Matthew (Kathy) Honke; Betsy Shonka; Amber ’06 and Colby ’08 Honke; Traci (Craig) Barnard; and Marty (Jodi) Hodge. He was also blessed with great-grandchildren, Shelby, Allison and Lindsay Schroder, Jack and Parker Shonka, Tyson and Regan Barnard, and Landon and Levi Hodge.

Ann Darlene Lynch Schmidt, passed away on April 27, 2012.

She is survived by her four children. Sons and daughters-in-law: Mike ‘68 and Dianna Schmidt, Brad ’69 and Mary ‘69 Schmidt; daughter, Theresa Curtis, and daughter and son-in-law, Patti ’79 and Rick Clarence; seven grandchildren including the following who have graduated or attend Pius X; Katy Schmidt ’97, Kelly (Schmidt) Houghton ’00, Megan Schmidt ’02 and Avery (Schmidt) Essay ’02 and Claire Clarence ’13 and eight greatgrandchildren.

Virginia “Ginny” Wrann Watts, 90, passed away on April 28, 2012. Ginny is survived by daughters, Kathleen ’64 and Christine Watts, and son, Dennis (Jan) Watts. Grandchildren: Melissa Watts (Andrew) Skea, Chaslynn Watts (Benjamin) Martchek, Megan Watts, and Jordan Cantu and two greatgrandchildren.

James M. “Jim” Noonan, 77, passed away May 3, 2012. Jim is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Marilyn (Barry) Noonan; son, Mike; daughter, Kelly ’78; daughter, Carrie and husband Dan Bienka; daughter, Becky Ely and Randy Trauernicht; grandchildren, Evan Ely and KC Hunt, Garrett Ely, Kendra Bienka, Daniel Bienka and Sammy Burns, Casey Noonan and Joe Hartley, Jimmy Noonan, Dusty and Rachelle Trauernicht, Taylor, Logan and Jensen Trauernicht; great grandchildren, Owen and Brooklyn Ely, Tatum Ihrig, and Noah Trauernicht; his sisters, Darlene Sievers, Doreen Miller ‘50, and Viv Walters ‘59; and many

nephews, nieces, and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents, and his brother, Gene Noonan ‘55.

in-law, Tom and Jane Steinbach, and Ted and Holly Steinbach; grandchildren, John ‘06, Bill ‘07 and Emily ‘12 Steinbach.

Nina O’Brien, 99, passed away on May 4, 2012. She is survived by her daughters, Mary Ellen ’60 (Robert) MaCoy and Kathy ’63 (John) Morris; Daughter-in-law, JoAnn (Delisi) O’Brien; 7 grandchildren; 14 great grandchildren.

Preceded in death by her son, Larry ‘57.

Kathleen Charlotte (Moss) Creal passed away on June 1, 2012. She is survived by her sons, daughtersin law, Stephen ‘61 and Anna; Thomas ‘65 and Cindy; Daniel ’71 and Vicki, Robert and Mary O’Shea-Creal, Jeffrey ‘80 and Susan, Michael ’74 and Catherine; daughters, sons-in-law, Marcia ‘66 and Kenneth Merboth, Teresa ‘73 and Louis Zearing, Christine ’75 and Daniel Nordstrom; 36 grandchildren including the following who graduated or attend Pius X: David Merboth ’98, Andrew ’97, Brad ’00, Samuel, ’09, Robert O’Shea-Creal ’04, Marie O’Shea-Creal ’06, Norah O’Shea-Creal ’09 and Liam O’Shea-Creal ’13 and 20 greatgrandchildren.

Nina M. Frieden, 86, passed away on May 7, 2012. She is survived by her daughter, son-inlaw: Linda and Melvin Gagner; grandchildren: Toni Boardman ’85, Edward Gagner ‘93; great grandson: Ben Boardman.

Kenneth L. “Ken” Classen, 66, of Lincoln, died Friday, May 25, 2012, at his home. Ken is survived by his daughter, Lindsay Wittenhagen and husband Steve; three grandchildren, Layne (’16), Haeley, and Chase Wittenhagen; former spouse, Sandee Lutz; brother, Ronald Classen & wife Barb; sisters and brothers-in-law, Margaret and Steve Slinkard, Judy and Richard Douglas, Mary and Loren McGinnis; and many nieces and nephews.

Theresa M. Bayless, a 1953 Cathedral High School Graduate passed away on May 28, 2012 .

Jill Nicole Portsche, 32, passed away on May 30, 2012. Jill is survived by her parents, Paul (Doug) and Susan Portsche, and brother, Greg Portsche ‘2010.

John L. Steinbach, 82, passed away on May 31, 2012. He is survived by sons and daughters-

Thomas A. Kirkpatrick, 55 passed away on June 5, 2012. He is survived by his wife, Sue; children, Tara ‘04, Amy ‘07, Teddy ‘11, Robert; brother and sisterin-law, Tim and Susan; brother, Terry; mother, Mary Jo Kirkpatrick; sister, Coleen Hughes; nieces and nephews.

Joyce T. (Meister) Delisi, 78 passed away on June 6, 2012. She is survived by her husband, Sam; four children and their spouses: Gary ‘73 and Roxie Delisi, Dianne ’74 and Rick Aksamit, Mary ’77 and Jon Butcher and Scott ‘82 and Barb Delisi; sisters: Marie, Helen, and Rita; six grandchildren and spouses; and two great-grandchildren.

Pius X Alumni Compete in U.S. Olympic Trials

Bridget (Divis) Easley ’99 and Mike Morgan ’98 recently competed in the U.S. Olympic Trials, and were honored during the half-time of a Pius X basketball game.

On Sat., Jan. 14, two Pius X High School alumni competed in the U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials in Houston, Texas.

Mike Morgan ’98 finished in 17th place with a personal best time of 2 hours, 14 minutes, and 21 seconds. His time equates to 5:08 pace per mile. This was

30 U piusx.net

Morgan’s second trip to the trials, having also qualified and competed in 2008.

Bridget (Divis) Easley ’99 finished the women’s trials in 129th place with a time of 2 hours, 52 minutes, 28 seconds.

To receive an invitation to compete in the trials, a runner must meet a minimum qualifying time during the 4- year span between each Olympic Game at a sanctioned marathon, half marathon or 10,000 meter race. The qualifying time for the women’s marathon is 2 hours 46 minutes and the men’s qualifying time is 2 hours 19 minutes.

At this year’s trials, 237 runners (85 men and 152 women) competed for the three qualifying spots available on each team.

W. Christian Davenport ’92 is the only other known Pius X Alumni who

has competed in an Olympic Trial.

He competed in the U.S. Olympic Trials for Road Cycling in May 2000 in Jackson, Miss.

The Olympic team had already been partially selected at that point, which W. Christian Davenport included Lance ’92 competed in the U.S. Armstrong. Finish- Olympic Trials for Road Cycling in May 2000. ing 46th overall, Davenport placed in the top 10 for amateurs. This was a great accomplishment, as he trained and competed at this very high level while holding down a full-time job (unlike other professional and amateur cyclists).

Kings, Queens, Bishops...

BOL T

Building Outstanding Leaders Today benefit dinner • live & silent auctions

T

hank you for making Kings, Queens, Bishops...BOLT another incredible success. More than 550 guests attended the dinner and auction and raised more than $240,000. Your support of BOLT will help the Pius X Booster Club and help Pius X to achieve the vital goal of retiring the debt on the new kitchen facilities. Be sure to mark your calendar and join us for BOLT 2013 on April 20th!

Adam Raun ’01 and wife Dawn

Heads or Tails

Mike Barrett ’93 and wife Kim 2012 BOLT Executive Committee - Front-l to r: Deb Schulte, Penny Bachmann, Diane Pryor, Janet Kurtenbach, Ann Kotopka, Mike Kotopka, Steve Jaros, Libby Jaros, back-l to r: Fr. Meysenburg, Joe Bachman, Alan Pryor, Mark Kurtenbach, and Michele Arndt.

Not pictured: Ron Arndt and Dave and Ann Kirby.

Scott Noel ’80 and wife Jackie

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