2022 Spring Re-U-Knight-er

A publication for the Bishop O’Gorman Catholic Schools community & alumni.

JEFF GORDON of teaching generations of O’Gorman Knights

years

ALUMNI HALL OF FAME 2022 INDUCTEES

O’GORMAN HIGH SCHOOL A WALK THROUGH TIME

MOMENT AT THE MET WITH BEN SIEVERDING

Our mission... to form a community of faith and learning by promoting a Catholic way of life through Gospel values and academic excellence.

President: Kyle L. Groos

Director of Development: Liz Myscofski 605-575-3342 lmyscofski@ogknights.org

Executive Director Bishop O’Gorman Catholic Schools Foundation: Nicole R. Bruning 605-575-3362 foundation@ogknights.org

Admissions: Jenni Struck 605-575-3358 admissions@ogknights.org

Bishop O’Gorman Catholic Schools

3100 W 41st St Sioux Falls, SD 57105

www.ogknights.org

www.facebook.com/BishopOGKnights

@BishopOGKnights

@BishopOGKnights

Greetings Alumni and Friends!

I’m Summer Wagner and I recently joined Bishop O’Gorman Catholic Schools as the Development & Alumni Specialist in February. These first few months have been a whirlwind of learning, but so much fun! I work closely with the Booster Club and Alumni. We have had several events in the past couple of months: Go Give OG, the Knights 5K and the O’Gorman Golf Classic—nothing like hitting the ground running, right?

My family has been part of Holy Spirit Parish since 2010. My husband, Kevin, works for First Bank & Trust and is a member of the Finance Committee for Holy Spirit Parish and Bishop O’Gorman Catholic Schools. Our son, Lucas, will be a senior at O’Gorman High School, our daughter, Hadley, will be a 8th grader at O’Gorman Junior High and our youngest son, Bridger, a 4th grader at Holy Spirit Elementary.

My background is in sales and marketing and I owned Lillians Shoppe in Downtown Sioux Falls for eight years. I’m excited to get back into retail while working with The Knight Locker. I look forward to meeting the Bishop O’Gorman Catholic Schools families that I don’t already know. Please take a minute to introduce yourself and reach out if there is anything that I can do to help! I am thankful for the opportunity to give back to an organization that has done so much for our family. Have a great summer and Go Knights!

Sincerely,

Summer Wagner, Development & Alumni Specialist

605-575-3391 • swagner@ogknights.org

THANKS FOR BEING

Thank you... We raised $30K in ONE DAY! Together, as an alumni community, you recognized the value of your high school education and experience and are helping families to send their children to Bishop O’Gorman Catholic Schools! The memories and joy you communicated through your donation is astounding: donating to honor family members who made the sacrifice to send you to a Catholic school, recognizing the sacrifice others made so tuition was affordable for your family and donating for future generations of Knights. The Cathedral and O’Gorman alumni community is one we are all lucky and proud to be part of.

Re-U-Knight-er is published three times annually by the Development Office and the Alumni Office for all Bishop O’Gorman Catholic Schools community, alumni and supporters.

Coordinator: Summer Wagner | Graphic Design: Angie Halter

Submissions or questions can be sent to info@ogknights.org.

JEFF GORDON

years of teaching generations of O’Gorman Knights

Mr. Gordon is incredibly humble. Since announcing his retirement, he has been interviewed, celebrated and honored. Hundreds of cards have been mailed, the current student body has celebrated their time with him and alumni have poured out their memories. While he may not realize the importance of his role at O’Gorman, his impact on the thousands of students he had over his tenure is inspirational.

Jeff Gordon began his teaching career at O’Gorman in the fall of 1977 and has been an essential part of the school for the past 45 years. Mr. Gordon wore several hats at O’Gorman. Besides teaching history and psychology, he also served as audio visual coordinator, coached freshman football, gathered stats for varsity football, coached JV girl’s golf, organized the Quiz Bowl team and coached wrestling.

History became a love of Mr. Gordon’s because of a college professor who was able to teach the importance of the subject without directly pointing it out. Many of Mr. Gordon’s students would agree he became that teacher—the one who loves what he teachers and his love is contagious.

1988 graduate Tony Cady was a wrestler for O’G when Gordon was coach. “He was more than a coach and teacher. He was a great role model for myself and many others. To this day when things get tough, I’d ask myself: What would Coach Gordon say or do? [He] is the only one I’d run through a wall for, no questions asked.”

1983 graduate John Smedsrud shared what he thought: “Every school needs at least three Jeff Gordons!”

John McGreevy, who graduated in 1982, told us that Gordon’s attitude is what made him stand out at O’Gorman.

“His demeanor was excited but in control. His excitement for history was infectious. He was very excited about our taking the AP test and we prepared for it and learned a great deal for weeks. He was a tremendous teacher,” said McGreevy.

The start of Mr. Gordon’s career wasn’t without a few bumps in the road. Fresh out of college, he was turned down for the first two jobs he applied for before the then principal of O’G, Fr. Joe Wagner, asked him to grow a mustache to establish his maturity over the juniors and seniors he would be teaching. While this wasn’t Mr. Gordon’s first choice of appearance, it did lend itself in his favor when he took on the roll of bathroom monitor in the 1970s. Mr. Gordon’s classroom was across the hall from the boy’s bathroom and he remembers it being part of his job to “bust” the boys trying to smoke in the bathroom during breaks.

When technology moved to the forefront of the classroom, it was a little intimidating for some of the staff. Gordon was comforted by something he heard at a tech seminar for educators—that teachers would almost always have a student in the room that would know more. This collaboration between the students and himself was another reason students loved him, he wasn’t afraid to ask for help.

“He was more than a coach and teacher. He was a great role model for myself and many others.”

- Tony Cady

Many of the alumni in the late 90s and early 2000s will remember Mr. Gordon and his iconic neck pen.

“I think I started with the neck pen thing because for some unknown reason, I always liked having something around my neck; coaching whistle or a stopwatch in wrestling. I am not the most organized person and a neck pen always assured me I would have access to a pen,” he told us.

Gordon’s own children inspired him to remain a part of our community for over four decades.

“I had such a great feeling from O’Gorman early on. My kids had all gone through Christ the King and we had such a good experience there that we wanted them to attend O’Gorman. I thought if I stayed here and taught, then my kids would go to school here and that would be pretty cool,” he explained.

Dr. Tom Lorang, former superintendent and principal at O’Gorman High School, started his career at O’G around the same time. Gordon also attributes part of his longevity at O’G to him.

“He was always so good to me and a big reason why I stayed as long as I did,” he said.

All of his four children attended and graduated from O’Gorman, Dr. Lorang retired and Mr. Gordon stayed, proudly becoming a “lifer”. His dedication has truly changed the lives of many of his students and for that, we can never say thank you enough.

FUTURE

An endowment is a gift that lasts forever and helps financially sustain the mission of the Bishop O’Gorman Catholic Schools Foundation. You can help endow our future… and it’s easier than you

When you make an endowment gift, you establish a steady stream of annual income to support our good work. Many families create an endowment to create a lasting legacy. Others create an endowment as a way to honor a loved one who has passed away.

www.BishopOGLegacy.org

O’Gorman - Cathedral

Alumni Hall of Fame

SAVE THE DATE!

O’Gorman Homecoming Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony

Friday, September 16, 2022

We are pleased to present this year’s inductees for our 2022 Hall of Fame who will be honored during Homecoming festivities on September 16th. Tickets for the induction luncheon can be purchased through the Development Office or by calling 605-575-3391*.

10:30AM - Mass and Introductions

Dr. Tom and Penny Lorang Theatre (OGHS performing arts center)

12:30PM - Hall of Fame Induction Luncheon

The Country Club of Sioux Falls

*Tickets $25 (includes reserved seating at the lunch)

3:30PM - Tour

O’Gorman High School

5PM - Homecoming Football Game

OGHS McEneaney Field

- OUR 2022 INDUCTEES -

Athletic Hall of Fame:

Katie (Bunkers) Bartling ‘02

1995 Girls Basketball Team

Will Powell ‘09

Distinguished Hall of Fame:

Heineman Family: Greg and Phyllis, Nick ‘98, Robb ‘92, Mike ‘96

Tom Loveland ‘70 U

Carol Nesbitt ‘80

Live and in person the Extravaganza 2022 was hosted at the Meadow Barn at Country Orchards in Harrisburg. Event tickets sold out prior to the night and the venue was filled with parents, teachers and supporters of Bishop O’Gorman Catholic Schools. We capped off the celebration with music from the Minneapolis-based cover band Junk FM. Thanks to last minute donations, a record setting net total of $218,000 was rasied!

The You’ve Been Knighted campaign kicked off two weeks prior to our event and set the bar at $20,000! Our amazing team of volunteers moved 16 sets of signs from yard to yard each night all over the community of Sioux Falls. This has been a highlight of our Extravaganza for over five years and has helped raise more funds for tuition assistance every year!

Thank you to our event sponsors, the businesses who donated items for us to auction off, the families and friends who participated in the silent auction and live auction, and all who raised their paddle in support of tuition assistance. It was as if you were shouting from the rooftops your excitement and support for Catholic education!

Special recognition of our chairs and co-chairs on our committee: Alyssa McLellan, Tracy Sorenson, Jaime Miller, Emily Robinson and Emily Petoske. This event takes a village to plan and execute. Without the generous gift of their time, Extravaganza wouldn’t be as successful as it was.

SAVE THE DATE!

44th Annual Bob Burns Dakota Bowl

Come cheer on the O’Gorman Knights at McEneaney Field as they host the Roosevelt Rough Riders on Saturday, September 3, 2022.

KNIGHTS 5K

Over the years the Knights 5K has seen rain, snow, sun, wind and clouds, but one thing remains the same—everyone has a great time! This year, the Knights 5K featured over 180 participants on a cloudy April morning. Elementary-aged students enjoyed running, racing, jumping stretching and an obstacle course with the O’Gorman High School Track and Field team while other family members walked or ran the race route. The winners of the 5K were: 1st place: Jessie Kroupa, 2nd place: John Dickes and 3rd place: Matt Mueller.

Dwight the Knight cheered on all participants and made sure everyone knew he had the best dance moves around! The tradition of the Knights 5K will continue, but everyone would appreciate your prayers for a warm sunny race day in the future!

This year we raised $9,455 for 21 athletic activities at O’Gorman High School. Thank you to all the volunteers and sponsors who helped support this event.

O’GORMAN GOLF CLASSIC

The 31st Annual O’Gorman Golf Classic was a great success for the Athletic Boosters! Held on May 9th at Willow Run Golf Course, the 112 participants were treated to a warm, but windy day! The tradition of the O’Gorman Golf Classic was started by devoted parents of O’Gorman High School students as a way to generate extra income to help offset athletic costs.

The Msgr. Andraschko Cup was introduced as a way to recognize Andraschko’s dedication to golf and the top flight of each tournament. Adding to last year’s list of names will be this May’s winners: Patrick Erickson, Michael Merry, Elliot Hitt and Luke Merkel.

A special thank you to all the volunteers and sponsors who support this event. This year we raised $20,255 for 21 athletic activities at O’Gorman High School!

NEXT GOLF CLASSIC MOVING TO THE FALL!

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 19, 2022

Msgr. Andraschko

2022 Msgr. Andraschko Cup Winners

KNIGHT NOTES

Helping Hands

Fourth graders from Christ the King Elementary helped make a pizza lunch for guests at the Bishop Dudley Hospitality House. After cleaning up, they assembled Easter baskets for the younger residents.

Cathedral Tour

Sixth grade students from St. Katharine Drexel Elementary spent an afternoon with Fr. Tom Fitzpatrick at the Cathedral of St. Joseph. They received a special “behind the scenes” tour and spent time with Bishop DeGrood.

Washing of the Hands

Holy Spirit Elementary students celebrated Holy Thursday with a “washing of the hands” prayer service during Lent.

Future in Healthcare

Junior High students had the opportunity to apply to visit the Avera Institute for Human Genetics. Students wrote essays about why they are passionate about a future in healthcare. The handful that were selected learned about careers in genetics, COVID testing and sequencing.

Learning about Mass

Fr. Scott Miller stopped by the third grade classroom at St. Michael Elementary to teach students how to set the altar. This was a great opportunity for our students to learn more about the celebration of Mass.

Working Out with the Mayor

St. Lambert Elementary students took part in a workout with the Mayor. Donated to the Extravaganza 2022 silent auction, Mayor TenHaken visited the school and taught the students simple exercises they can do at home.

Educators of the Year

Holy Spirit Elementary first grade teacher Nancy Seaman received the 2021-2022 American Legion Post 15 Educator of the Year Award!

O’Gorman Junior High teacher Ruth Bordewyk was named the Outstanding Middle Level Educator of the Year through the South Dakota Association of Middle Level Educators!

Nancy Seaman

Ruth Bordewyk

Kathryn Elizabeth Barr U

Macee Mary Bartels

Natalya Ann Barthle 

Haley Nichole Berg

Lilly Marie Berthelsen

Auburn Rose Brenner U

Gina Michele Brummel

Elena Rae Burgwald U

Yueqin Cao 

Clare Rose Carlson 

Sanjana Chandran U

Lauren Grace Cogley U

Isabelle Marie Cox 

Genet Claire Czarnecki 

Lillian Leigh Dexter U

Isabella Diaz 

Kathryn Amy Dougherty 

Emily Elizabeth Dowling U

Atur Atak Mawien Dut

Maria Therese Dvoracek 

Clare Nicole Elsinger

Hannah Brigitte Friedman 

Alivia Grace Gale U

Carlye Anne Gebhart 

Rebecca Catherine Geraets

Taylor Marie Gowlovech U

Erica Lynn Haase

Taylor May Hagen U

Alayna Mae Havard U

Piper Olivia Heitkamp U

Kathryn Suzanne Hembree 

Ellie Jo Jaspers U

Elizabeth Riley Jones

Kaylyn Olivia Kennedy

Emily Claire Kolb U

Kennedi Jean Kolsrud 

Amaya Gemma Kovash U

Maria Rose Kuchta U

Paige Catherine Labahn U

Kylie Ana Lacey U

Kaitlyn Marie Lewison U

Amy Kathryn Longo U

Sadie Marie Loving 

Macy Jo Matheson U

Maria Jo Maus 

Morgan Lynn Mikuska 

Samantha Lynn Miller U

Ava Ruth Moore U

Annika Joy Mueller U

Olivia Kathryn Muenster 

Jorja Kate Muller U

Emma Lee Olson

Haleigh Bryn Ortega 

Makenna Skye Ortega 

Emily Jennifer Pals U

Allison Lynn Pommer U

Josie Alexa Louise Randazzo 

Meredith Yellen Rueter 

Flora Sheri Richardson

Jadyn Rose Robbins U

Bridgett Marie Robinson 

Hannah Claire Ronsiek

Julia Catherine Salter 

Hope Renee Schmeichel 

Sydney Marie Schmidt U

Rheta Simone Schneekloth 

HattieJo Marie Schwebach 

Suzanna Jane Sejnoha U

Therese Gianna Simon 

Mya Elsy Skibinski 

Alida Grace Skinner U

Catherine Ann Spader U

Isabella Rain Steffel U

Jenna Marie Stein U

Lauren Elizabeth Sutcliffe 

Hannah Elizabeth Thompson 

Claire Cristine Thornton 

Madison Marie Thorstenson 

Ann Thuy Tran 

Ryleigh Danielle Tupper 

Grace Elizabeth

Van Overschelde U

Megan Leigh VanDenHemel 

Victoria Virginia Vazquez 

Catherine Rose Whaler

Isabella Katherina Wilcox

Avery Alivia Wittry

Hannah Mary Woody

Griffin Dominic Aasen

Rick Edward Adriano

Remon Solomon Afeworki

David Owen Alpers III 

Chad Joseph Ambroz

Austin Max Antonen

Harris Benjamin Barnes

Jonathan William Baye

Easton Aaron Beavers

Evan Louis Beier U

Aiden Michael Belitz 

Hosea Mikal Bennett U

Peter David Benson U

Owen Cheung Birkeland

Mattia Bocciarelli

Ryan Joseph Bornhoft 

Zachary Matthew Carlson

Owen Palmer Connelly

John Russell Costello U

Quinn Sabers Dunham U

Mason Anthony Fritz U

Luke Michael Gulseth U

Dylan James Gulson

Chase Thomas Harris U

Carter Joseph Hayes

Trey Logan Heckenlaible U

Class of 2022

Daniel Joseph Heiberger U

Aiden Meikel Heisinger

William Kinate Henkhaus

Wyatt David Hermsen 

Logan Albert Hight 

Carson William Holt U

Caleb Joseph Honner 

Leo James Hueners

Maverick Michael Jarding 

Knute Leon Johnson U

Sutton Timothy James Johnson

Wutak Kevin Jung 

Caleb James Kanable

Preston James Konechne U

Jorgen Randall Kouri

Joseph William Kubista

Ahoui Akech Kuol

Noah John Walter Lamb

Rush Matthew Landry 

Gabriel James Larson 

Loegen Kennedy Lindner 

Anders Samuel Mattecheck U

Seth Allen McMaster U

Matthew James Joseph Micka U

Logan Phillip Mueller 

Andrew John Nelson 

Peter Nguyen U

Christopher Andrew Nyangamoi 

Jacob Roland Olson

Samuel Terrence Pardy U

Nicholas Michael Pellicotte U

Carter Sage Petersen 

William Gene Peterson II

Landon Thomas Rhone U

Gabriel Joseph Ripperda U

Luis Felipe Rojas U

Isaac James Rokusek 

Logan Richard Ruby U

James Michael Ryckman U

Antonio Joseph Sanchez

William Denny Sanford U

Ian John Scherbring

Nicholas Matthew Schmitz U

Dominick Richard Scholten U

Lincoln Steven Small U

Carson Joseph Smith 

Emanuel Gage Struck U

Peter Johnathan Tappe

Jaxon Riccardo Tarabelsi U

Liam Vincent Thomassen U

Tristin Cade Van Wassenhove

Grant John Vavra

Matthew Arthur Viehweg 

Heikki Vihtori Virtanen

Kaden Jon Waddell U

Keegan Thomas Wenande U

McCabe Thomas Wenande U

Maxwell Wetzel

John Paul White 

Easton Law Zueger U

 National Honor Society

 South Dakota Regents Scholar

 President’s Award for

Educational Excellence

 4.0 or higher Grade Point Average

(weighted or unweighted, after 7 semesters)

 National Merit Finalist

What’s up at

STATE CHAMPS COACH OF THE YEAR

NATIONAL LATIN EXAM

The Lady Knights Basketball team are the State Champions for 2022! They powered past Rapid City Stevens in a 49-42 victory—a feat that has led to the Knights being named the 2022 KELOLAND Media Group Girls Team of the Year!

SPEECH AND DEBATE

Latin students at O’G accomplished some amazing things this year! Freshman Daniel Vazquez received a perfect score on the National Latin Exam and senior Kylie Lacey received a special prize for receiving four years of gold medals on the National Latin Exam. Way to go Knights!

The Speech and Debate teams qualified 13 students to the Speech and Debate Association National Tournament in Kentucky this summer. Competitors include (top left): sophomore Bella Puetz, junior Aiden Geiver, junior Anisah LaPlante, junior Raeya Allen. (bottom

junior Norah Dahle, sophomore Jonah Astrup, senior Sanjana Chandran, senior Suzanna Sejnoha, senior McCabe Wenande and sophomore Paige Lewis. Not pictured: senior Katie Lewison, sophomore Noah Johnson, freshman Sophia Santos.

Congratulations to Coach Kent Kolsrud for being named the South Dakota Basketball Coaches Association Region Coach of the Year!

left)

GYMNASTICS STATE CHAMPIONS

FIGURE SKATING GOLD MEDALIST

WRESTLING CHAMPION

SPRING MUSICAL STATE FBLA LEADERSHIP

The gymnastics team are the State Champions in Class AA! They scored an amazing 150.3.

Clare Carlson is a United States Figure Skating Gold Medalist! She passed her Senior MIF test to earn the title. She is one of 12 skaters in the state of SD who holds this title!

Freshman Keenan Sheridan placed 4th in the nation in the US Wrestling 15-Under Freestyle Championship in Las Vegas.

Senior Ryleigh Tupper placed 1st in UX Design and Entrepreneurship, 2nd in Organizational Leadership, 3rd in Journalism & Advertising and 5th in Business Communications and Future Business Leader at the State FBLA Convention in Aberdeen!

The drama department debuted their spring musical: Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat to near sold-out crowds.

A Walk Through Time

In 1970, O’Gorman had 43 full time faculty members, half of whom were lay teachers. Tuition was $200.

Sr. Margaret Mary taught home economics and made caramel rolls for the students that became legendary!

Named after Bishop Thomas O’Gorman (noted educator and second Bishop of Sioux Falls) O’Gorman High School opened its doors on September 7, 1961 to more than 550 students. Tuition was $90 and the original staff consisted of five priests, 18 nuns and six lay teachers. The first principal was Fr. Howard Carroll.

First O’G musical was Guys and Dolls in 1973.

In 1962, O’Gorman High School had its first graduating class.

1970s 1960s

Boys were primarily taught by priests and laymen, while the girls were mostly taught by Dominican, Presentation and Benedictine Sisters.

The school had separate wings through the 60s for boys (B-Wing) and girls (G-Wing). Later changed to O-Wing and G-Wing when classes were no longer segregated.

Sr. Margaret Mary in 1971

The first Bob Burns Dakota Bowl was in 1978. “O’Gorman Wins Big Over Fargo Shanley 35 - 12”

Tom Lorang began as first lay principal in 1979.

In 1973, Lady Knights tennis team won first state title.

The school had 560 skylights to help save on electricity.

The original chapel at O’Gorman High School

O’Gorman High School recently celebrated its 60th anniversary. With the 60th class graduating this spring, we thought it would be fun to take a look back at some of the memorable moments at OGHS.

O’Gorman Knights football won first state championship title in 1981.

With the decrease of nuns and priests teaching, the position of a chaplain was created. Fr. Chuck Cimpl was assigned the chaplaincy and lived at the school for a number of years during the 80s.

The beginning of the 90s brought a new dress code where the girls were allowed to wear slacks during the colder months. A few years later, skirts were no longer mandatory.

In 1991, O’Gorman High School became part of the larger Catholic school system, Sioux Falls Catholic Schools (SFCS). Tom Lorang was named Superintendent.

To meet the demand for more gym space—especially for girls’ athletics —a secondary gym was added. Now known as the Avera Rec Center.

Skylights throughout the school were taken out.

1980s 1990s

O’Gorman High School began offering classes for college credit.

Graduation requirements increased by four credits, from 18 to 22.

(Years later, the requirements were increased again to 25.)

O’Gorman High School was honored by the US Department of Education in the 1984-1985 Exemplary School Recognition Project, later known as “National Blue Ribbon School”.

In 1995, the Lady Knights won their first AA State Girls Basketball Title.

In the fall of 1998, Bishop Robert Carlson officially dedicated of the new McEneaney Field in honor of Monsignor McEneaney.

The old G-1 classroom was converted into a new chapel - The Monsignor Francis Sampson Peace Chapel was dedicated in June 1998.

Tuition was $750 in 1983.

By the 2000s, both boys and girls were allowed to wear khaki pants with polo shirts of any color and dress shoes.

Tuition was $3,900 in 2011.

For a third time in 2014, O’Gorman High School was awarded the National Blue Ribbon Award.

In 2011, the Dr. Tom and Penny Lorang Theatre, O’Gorman Performing Arts Center opened.

In 2005, O’Gorman High School was awarded, for a second time, the National Blue Ribbon Award. (The only high school at the time to have received the award twice.)

The Knights won their first AA State Boys Basketball Title in 2006. (Followed by a second title a year later.)

2000s 2010s +

The school system name changed to Bishop O’Gorman Catholic Schools in 2019.

A new Dwight the Knight mascot was introduced in 2019.

O’Gorman High School undergoes major renovation, including: new G-Wing in 2008, along with new turf and eight-lane track to McEneaney Field. New administrative offices and a new chapel in 2009.

Coronavirus pandemic in the spring of 2020, students participated in virtual learning from home. Graduation was held outdoors on Mac Field.

In 2021, O’Gorman High School was awarded the National Blue Ribbon Award for a fourth time.

The class of 2022 becomes the 60th class to graduate from O’Gorman High School.

Class of 1981 – 40 Year Reunion

The Class of 1981 gathered on Friday, August 27 at Ode To Food Restaurant Rooftop and Saturday, August 28 at Minnehaha Country Club to celebrate their 40-year class reunion. The evenings were filled with catching up with old friends! A great weekend was had by all in attendance!

Upcoming

Class of 1970 – Class of 1970 is turning 70 – A Birthday Bash to Beat All!

Friday, September 23, 5pm at PAVE in downtown Sioux Falls-upper level. Saturday, September 24 at Minnehaha Country Club: 5:30-6:30pm social hour, 6:30pm buffet dinner-Italian, 8pm birthday cake! Be there to help us blow out the candles! Cost-$35/person. Please RSVP by July 29th to Laurie (Fischer) Long: lllong52@hotmail.com, Mary (Bruns) Brzica: marybrzica@yahoo.com or Jim Hargens: hargensfam@yahoo.com.

Class of 1971 – 50 + 1 Year Reunion

Rescheduled for September 9-10, 2022. For updates and more information, please visit www.ogknights.org/alumni/alumni-happenings You may also update your contact info: ogclassof71@gmail.com or friend/follow Oggie Gorman on Facebook for more information.

Class of 1972 – 50 Year Reunion

September 9-10, 2022: Friday: Hilton Garden Inn Downtown Sioux Falls; Saturday: El Riad Shrine (the former Arkota Ballroom) cocktail hour, dinner and live entertainment with the Hegg Brothers. Please watch your mail for a registration form and check out ogknights.org/alumni/ alumni-happenings or our Facebook page: O’G Class of ’72. Any questions contact Peggy Hayes: farmerhaze@icloud.com, 605-321-0682; Jim Severson: jimbon@sio.midco.net, 605-941-4296; Suzanne Miller: LIBRN411@hotmail.com, 917-929-7873.

Class of 1977 – 45 Year Reunion

Our 45th reunion will be the weekend of July 29-July 31, 2022. Contact Ray Brooks, 605-231-0689 or Kathy Phillips, 605 940-2448 with questions. We will plan a social on July 30 at Great Bear Lodge. Other events for the weekend will follow.

Class of 1980 – 40, 41, 42 Year Reunion

Rescheduled reunion will be held July 29-31, 2022. Friday at 6pm social at the Detour Bar, 2501 W 10th Street. The Crabgrass Crew will be there for entertainment and there will be a food truck on hand to purchase Chicago-style Fare. Saturday we will have a tour of O’Gorman High School at 3pm followed by Mass in the O’Gorman Chapel at 4:15pm. Semi dressy, yet casual event will begin at 6pm at R Wine Bar, 322 E 8th Street. Class photo and short program at 7:30pm. Please contact Jacki Kasten at 605-376-2583 if you did not receive your registration letter.

Class of 1982 – 42 Year Reunion

The dates for the Class of 1982 reunion are June 10-11, 2022. Friday we will meet at the Levitt at the Falls. Look for Class of ‘82 banner. Saturday plans for the afternoon are being finalized and Saturday night we will be at John Dougherty’s place. More details to follow. Any questions, please contact Steve Bolger 605-359-7066, Mike Hauck 605-359-8430 or Kevin Kunkel 605-929-8254.

Class of 2002 – 20 Year Reunion

The class of 2002 is planning their 20-year high school reunion Saturday, September 17. Planning for food, drinks, music and fun at Blue Rock Bar & Grill in Sioux Falls at 6:30pm. We will likely also have other activities during the weekend, such as a tour of O’Gorman and a golf outing option. Join your 2002 classmates for a fun, relaxed reunion weekend! Contact Katie (Bunkers) Bartling for more info! Katie.Bartling00@gmail.com

Class

of

2012 – 10 Year Reunion

The Class of 2012 is planning their 10-year high school reunion for Saturday, September 10. Please save the date and contact James Gaspar jgaspar@i-o-p.com or 605-988-4723 with any questions.

Photo: List of attendee names can be found at www.ogknights.org/alumni/alumni-happenings

‘54 Ron Connors is in good health and enjoys hunting and skiing.

‘65 Kennth Brinker is now semi-retired and works at Parts Pros. kennybrinker@yahoo.com

‘67 Mary Ann Erickson (Creedmoor) enjoys spending time with family, reading, gardening and cooking. She continues to be a substitute teacher after 51 years.

‘71 Debra Huemoller (Keleher) would like to invite classmates to stay connected and she can be reached at: 246 Schum-Zipp Rd, New Braunfels, TX 78130 Skatingfun@yahoo.com

‘91 Jesse Johnston and Amy Davis ‘93 were married on April 30, 2021.

‘92 Jason Fitzler graduated from Mount Marty in 1996 and is working for Keystone Treatment as a counselor. Jason and his wife, Janelle, have three children; Kaelyn, Nicolas and Joseph. jason.fitzler@gmail.com

‘06 Rob Burns and his wife, Regan, are expecting their second child in October 2022.

‘08 Nicholas Haiar was ordained to the priesthood by Bishop Donald DeGrood on May 27 at the Cathedral of Saint Joseph.

‘08 Katie Twelves (Vogel) and her husband, Scott, welcomed their first child Stella Mae Twelves on March 2, 2022.

‘14 Isaac Althoff married Sydney Sivertson at the Basilica of the Sacred Heart at Notre Dame on Dec. 18, 2021. Isaac is based at Naval Airstation North Island in San Diego, CA as a Navy Pilot with the Navy Osprey squadron.

John McGreevy (’82) was recently named Provost at the University of Notre Dame; the chief academic officer responsible for the overall operation of the academic division. McGreevy is the former dean of the College of Arts and Letters at Notre Dame and an acclaimed historian. In 2011, he was inducted into the O’Gorman Hall of Fame. His father, Dr. Pat, was a longtime volunteer and tutor at O’Gorman and his mother, Kathy, was a teacher at O’Gorman in the 80s. The alumni community extends their congratulations to John.

Dr. Duane R. Niles, Jr. was recently chosen as the 2022 inductee into the South Dakota Bandmasters Association Hall of Fame. Dr. Niles served as O’Gorman High School Band Director from 2009-2014. He was recognized for 43 years of work as a music educator, teaching instrumental music from elementary grades through college-level classes. The award was accepted by his family on February 11, 2022 at the annual South Dakota Music Educators Conference in Brookings, SD. Niles passed away in May 2021 at the age of 64. In 2003, Niles accepted a one-year position at Texas Christian University (TCU) where he served as Assistant Director of the Horned Frogs Marching Band, directed the University/ Community Concert Band, directed the Pep Band for the men’s and women’s basketball teams, and supervised student teachers. After TCU, he returned to South Dakota to teach at several different high schools in the state, specializing in jazz bands, concert and symphonic bands, and field marching competitions. During his career, he was also active as a judge at music contests, as well as judging parade and marching competitions throughout South Dakota and surrounding states.

UPDATE/CORRECTION

Winter Re-U-Knight-er correction:

‘88 Nick Earley canoed down the entire Missouri River from Three Forks, Montana to the Arch in St. Louis! It was 2,336 miles and took 112 days!

‘44 Charlotte Boysen (Lucas) passed away on May 5, 2022, in Dell Rapids, SD. She is survived by her children Tim, Linda, Dennis, Cheryl, Denra, Kevin and Kelly. She is preceded in death by her husband, Hobert and her parents.

‘46 Dorothy “Dot” Herbert passed away on March 17, 2022, in Sioux Falls, SD. She is survived by her sister, Helen ‘45.

‘49 Otto Kaiser passed away on April 6, 2022, in Edina. He is survived by his wife Bobbie; children, Jane, Nancy, Barbara, Sharon and John. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Mary Jo.

‘50 James Hawkins passed away on April 25, 2022, in Sun Lakes, AZ. He is survived by his wife, Marilyn and 11 children.

‘52 Eugene Bangasser passed away January 17, 2022, in Bloomington, MN. He is survived by his children; siblings, Paul ‘56, Elmer ‘60, Rita ‘61 and Ruth ‘61. He is preceded in death by siblings, Joseph ‘46, Bernard ‘49, Donald ‘50 and Loretta ‘58.

‘52 Cecelia “Whiffer” Randall (Kirby) passed away January 30, 2022, in Sioux Falls, SD. She is survived by her children, Jeff ‘78, Michael ‘80, Katie ‘86 and Jeannie ‘83. She is preceded in death by her husband, Marv; parents; siblings, Margaret ‘40 and Tom. Memorials are designated to Christ the King (parish and school).

‘53 Donna Warner (Donahoe) passed away on March 22, 2022, in Larchwood, IA. She is survived by her children, Stephen, David and Randall. She was preceded in death by her husbands, Robert Simons and Mervin Warner; her parents and stepfather.

‘56 Barbara “Bobbi” Stich passed away on September 7, 2021. She is survived by her husband, John ‘48; children, Steve, Mark and Tom. She is preceded in death by her daughter, Lori.

‘56 Agnes Dyer (Reiter) passed away on January 13, 2022, in Sioux Falls, SD. She is survived by her children, Kari ‘83 and Jim. She is preceded in death by her parents, Nicholas ‘42 and Christella Reiter.

‘56 Richard Dennis Pins passed away on April 27, 2022. He is survived by Nadean Louise; son, Theodore and brother, Patrick ‘66.

‘58 Donald Rotherham passed away January 4, 2022, in Tuscon, AZ. He is survived by his wife Roberta; children, Michelle ‘82 and Michael ’84. He is preceded in death by his parents.

‘60 Patricia Seiler (Fleming) passed away on February 19, 2022, in West Des Moines, IA. She is survived by her daughter, Deborah. She was preceded in death by husband, Richard Sr; her parents and her sister, Mary ‘65.

‘64 Helen Self passed away on November 23, 2021, in Atascadera, CA. She is survived by her brother, Paul ‘67.

‘69 Linda Kracke (Vigna) passed away on May 12, 2022, in California City, CA.

‘70 Arnold Rausch passed away on March 10, 2022, in Columbia, MD. He is survived by his wife Debra; daughter, Alicia. He was preceded in death by his parents.

‘70 Thomas Loveland passed away on May 13, 2022, in Sioux Falls, SD. He is survived by his wife, Cam ‘72; children, Shannon and Bill; siblings Jane ‘69, Dan ‘72, Jim and Joe. He was preceded in death by his parents.

‘71 Stephanie Orr passed away on February 2, 2022, in Phoenix, AZ. She is survived by her husband Bill, and her daughter, Taylor.

‘72 Richard Hines passed away March 21, 2021, in Sioux Falls, SD. He is survived by his wife, Peggy; sons, Chris and Chad. He is preceded in death by his parents.

‘73 Timothy Mulhair passed away on April 23, 2022, in Yankton, SD. He is survived by his wife Lorie; sons, Eric, John and Tim; brother, Thomas ‘74 and sister, Anne ‘75. He was preceded in death by his parents.

‘79 Terry Lee Groeneweg passed away on April 3, 2022, in Hartford, SD. She is survived by her husband Lowell; sons, Phillip and Mark, two stepsons Jason and David. She is preceded in death by her father.

‘83 Gary Gaspar passed away March 8, 2022, in Sioux Falls, SD. He is survived by his wife Theresa; children, Andrew ‘10 and James ‘12. Gary served as a Board Chair for Sioux Falls Catholic Schools from 20052013.

FAMILY & FRIENDS OF ALUMNI:

Mark Shlanta, father of Michael ‘13, Karl ‘15, Joseph ‘18 and Scott ‘20. Mark served on the School Board for Bishop O’Gorman Catholic Schools from 2018-2019.

Rosemary Brooks, mother of Barbara Johnson, Ted ‘67, Bob ‘71, Ron ‘75, Ray ‘77, Rick ‘79 and Steve ‘80.

Rose Kennelly, mother of Gregory ‘85 and Elizabeth ‘87. Rose was a school volunteer at O’G and St. Mary Elementary.

Evelyn “Louise” Faini, mother of Teresa ‘78, Gerard ‘78, Thomas ‘81 and Donna.

Karen McGuire, mother of Deby ‘73, Kim ‘80, Daneen ‘82, LeAnn ‘85, Keith and Jim.

Dorris Duffy, mother of Cherie ‘59, Gary ‘61 and Maywin ‘72.

Nancy Wheeler, sister of Gail ‘77.

Dale Fahrendorf, father of Julie ‘87, David ‘90 and Eric.

Karen McGuire, mother of Deby ‘73, Keith, Jim, Kim ‘80, Daneen ‘82 and LaAnn ‘85.

Jerald McDonald, father of Collin ‘68, Toni ‘72 and Shane ‘75.

MOMENT AT THE MET

Q&A WITH BEN

SIEVERDING

Moving from Minnesota to New York to pursue a dream of singing opera might sound like the plot to a movie, but it’s a dream turned reality for ‘05 graduate Ben Sieverding. This spring Ben, vocally a Bass singing the lowest of all voices, will join the cast as a member of the pit singers in Hamlet at the Metropolitan Opera in New York City, the largest classical music organization in North America. To reach this level, Ben has put in years of rehearsals, training and performances with the Minnesota Opera (since 2015) and debuted with the Tulsa Opera and Omaha Symphony in 2021. He attended South Dakota State University where he studied voice before earning his Master of Music from the University of Michigan. Ben’s dedication to his dream of Opera performances continued as he completed his degree in Specialist in Music-Vocal Performance in 2013. On May 13, Hamlet opened but Ben had some time between rehearsals to talk with us about his Moment at the Met.

How did you come to choose a career in opera?

I always enjoyed my time in choir, band and theater at O’Gorman. Opera is the perfect place to combine all the skills I’ve learned in both my ensemble and solo performance experience. The arts tend to have a strong sense of community and the opera industry is no different. I was lucky to have teachers and mentors who encouraged and supported me along the way, gently nudging me in the direction of opera.

What has been your favorite character to play?

“Peter Quince” in A Midsummer Night’s Dream is a stand out. He’s constantly trying to organize the other Rustics in an attempt at efficiency… something I often identify with during the rehearsal process. Perhaps a more iconic role was getting to portray “The Statue of the Commendatore” who drags the main character to his doom in Don Giovanni

Where are some of the most interesting places opera has taken you?

I’ve been very fortunate to travel extensively for work. Some of my favorites have included California, New Mexico, Colorado and Montana. Earlier in my training, I spent a summer performing in the Dordogne region of France.

What was the process like to try out for the Metropolitan Opera?

My management arranged an audition for me in December 2018. After some general positive feedback, we didn’t hear any updates from the company until the offer came in July 2021 to make my debut in this production of Brett Dean’s Hamlet

How is this opera different from other operas you’ve performed in?

For starters, I am part of an octet of singers down in the orchestra pit (for most of the show). Our singing functions as sound effect and emotional emphasis throughout the piece, just like any other instrument of the orchestra. We do make our way to the stage to join the rest of the cast for the final scene. The orchestration for this piece includes prerecorded audio cues, plastic bottles, logs, and even stones. The composer leaves the audience with no choice but to be immersed in the sonic atmosphere of Hamlet’s psychotic state.

What has it been like living in New York temporarily?

There’s always something to do or go see… if I’m not completely exhausted from rehearsal. After we begin performances on May 13, I should have more time to sightsee. Being away from my wife, my dog and my bed for eleven weeks is certainly a challenge.

Any message for future Knights who might be looking at a career in music?

I want as many people as possible who enjoy music and performing to stick with it throughout their lives in some capacity. A career in the performing arts definitely has its challenges and demands, but there’s nothing else I’d rather be pursuing. I’m incredibly grateful for the overwhelming sense of belonging and community I’ve found in the arts at O’Gorman and beyond. Don’t apologize for wanting to use the gifts you’ve been given! Our Creator has given us creative abilities for good reason.

If you’d like to catch Ben’s performance, Hamlet will be in movie theaters nationwide on June 8th for one day only! You can search “Metropolitan Opera: Hamlet” to find tickets near you. Congratulations on all your success Ben!

Don Giovanni, University of Alabama Opera Theatre USO Show: Minnesota Opera

Ariadne auf Naxos, Minnesota Opera

Photo by Dan Norman

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