Knight Life - Fall 2023

KNIGHT

A MISSION WITH A SCHOOL Interview with Fr. Joe Newman, OSFS page 6

MORE IMPACT, MORE GOOD Ohio Tax Credit Opens New Doors page 16

One Vine, Many Branches

We are a Catholic college preparatory school community for young men. We promote the academic, spiritual, social, and physical development of our students in order to produce leaders in the spirit of St. Francis de Sales, who challenges us to “be who we are and be that well.”

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From the President Dear Alumni, Friends, and Families, Jesus tells his disciples, “I am the vine, you are the branches.” This imagery from John’s Gospel is wonderfully embraced by our hockey team.

As each player heads out onto the ice, they tap this sign reading “One Vine, Many Branches.” Our longtime general manager, Mike Marciniak, signs his emails with “Grow the vine,” – a philosophy that has allowed him to lead the program’s transformation from a fledgling club to an unequaled state powerhouse.

This philosophy describes much of the work we’ve done together for more than 65 years at St. Francis de Sales School. Each year, the vine grows as graduates move into the world and new students take their place as Knights. Our alumni base grew by 150 this year on Graduation Day (page 10), and more than 50 alumni, including men from that recent class, came back to St. Francis on the first day of school to welcome our 258 freshmen, 8th, and 7th graders.

Meanwhile, the Oblates of St. Francis de Sales, selected Fr. Joe Newman, OSFS ’03 as our new provincial superior. Notably, this is the first time our provincial and each of his three counselors are St. Francis alumni – two from the 1990s and two from the 2000s. Together, they seek to grow the vine of our ministry through a focus on cultivating vocations, with the hope of leading St. Francis for “decades and decades and decades” to come (page 6).

We’re also thrilled to introduce another way to grow the vine: a transformative way of giving for Ohio taxpayers who make a gift to the St. Francis de Sales High School Foundation for the benefit of the school. The Foundation received the designation of a “Scholarship Granting Organization,” or SGO, which under state law allows eligible Ohio taxpayers to reduce their tax liability through a dollar-to-dollar tax credit up to $1,500 (page 16).

There’s more work to do. Growing the vine is never finished, but the momentum we’ve developed at St. Francis de Sales School makes me eager to see what’s ahead.

May God bless you as you’ve already blessed us.

Go Knights!

Rev. Geoffrey N. Rose, OSFS President

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DIRECTORY St. Francis de Sales School sfsknights.org 419-531-1618 ADMISSIONS & KNIGHT FOR A DAY Schedule an appointment to tour St. Francis de Sales or become a Knight for a Day. Contact Jennifer Briner, Director of Enrollment Management, at 419-214-5425 or jbriner@sfsknights.org. For more information, visit sfsknights.org/admissions.

ADDRESS CHANGE To report an address change, contact Laurie Powell at 419-214-5475 or lpowell@sfsknights.org.

CLASS NOTES Alumni and parents are encouraged to send good news and life developments to the school for Knight Life’s Class Notes section. Email alumni@sfsknights.org.

OBITUARIES St. Francis de Sales informs alumni of classmate deaths by emailing the obituary or death notice to classmates. To report the death of a classmate, or to update our records upon the death of a spouse, past parent, or son, please call 419-214-5443 or email alumni@sfsknights.org.

PHILANTHROPY Advancing the St. Francis de Sales mission requires dedicated alumni and benefactor support. To explore options for philanthropic giving, contact Joe Sweeney ’83 at 419-214-5438 or jsweeney@sfsknights.org.

PLANNED GIVING St. Francis de Sales relies on the generosity of individuals who remember the school through bequests and planned gifts. For more information, contact Renee Winkler at 419-214-5429 or rwinkler@sfsknights.org.

LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT

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A MISSION WITH A SCHOOL

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KNIGHT SHIFT

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BACK ON BANCROFT

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A CHANGE IN THEIR ARMOR

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A STEP ABOVE THE REST

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GOOD NEWS – SGO

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CLASS NOTES

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IN MEMORIAM

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FROM THE EDITOR

Table of Contents

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SGO TAX CREDIT Ohio taxpayers may be eligible for a dollar-for-dollar tax credit up to $1,500 for donations to the St. Francis de Sales High School Foundation. For more information, contact Dan Zawisza ’92 at 419-214-5441 or dzawisza@sfsknights.org.

SPIRIT STORE The Chappuis Society operates the Spirit Store during school lunch hours and by appointment. For details, contact the main office at 419-531-1618.

TOURS Alumni and benefactor tours of St. Francis de Sales School are available by appointment. Contact Will Garbe ’10 at 419-214-5443 or wgarbe@sfsknights.org to schedule a time.

JULIE JAMES Chief Financial Officer ANDREW KLINGER ’06 Director of Facilities & Chief Information Officer JANICE SCHLACHTER Chief Marketing Officer JOE SWEENEY ’83 Director of Philanthropy DAN ZAWISZA ’92 Director of Advancement Operations DEBORAH RATHBUN Academic Dean

Board of Trustees

JOHN HALL ’02 Principal

ST. FRANCIS DE SALES SCHOOL

Administration

REV. GEOFFREY N. ROSE, OSFS President

THOMAS J. MANAHAN JR. ’77 Chairman JEFFRY M. SCHAAF ’94 Vice Chairman DONALD R. CARROLL, JD ’68 JEFFREY C. COLE ’84 WILLIAM H. CONLISK ’71 KARL S. FERNANDES, MD ’83 JACALYN M. FLOM JOHN T. HALL ’02 DONALD L. HARBAUGH ’67 AARON F. HOOD ’90 MAUREEN M. KENNEY, RN MICHAEL S. KORALEWSKI JOHN P. KRAUS ’79 MICHAEL S. MCGOWAN, JD ’75 VERY REV. JOSEPH A. NEWMAN, OSFS ’03

CALEB FORTNER Dean of Men

REV. GEOFFREY N. ROSE, OSFS

JAMIE KACHMARIK Athletic Director

MICHAEL S. STUBBLEFIELD, DDS ’94

CHRISTOPHER P. SPEGELE SYDNEY WILLIAMS-BIRCH, PH.D.

JANICE SCHLACHTER Editor WILL GARBE ’10 WGARBE@SFSKNIGHTS.ORG Contributors TYLER CLARK ’11 MAUREEN DELANEY CARROLL CINDY MEINZER REV. GEOFFREY N. ROSE, OSFS JOE SWEENEY ’83 Layout CARD ADVERTISING Photos CARD ADVERTISING IMPULSE SPORTS Printing METZGERS COVER DESCRIPTION: Makhi Smith ’23 and Nate Smith ’23 share a laugh during the 2023 Baccalaureate Mass at Gesu Church

ST. FRANCIS DE SALES HIGH SCHOOL FOUNDATION

KNIGHT Chief Marketing Officer

Board of Directors

VERY REV. ALAN D. ZOBLER, OSFS ’97

VERY REV. JOSEPH A. NEWMAN, OSFS ’03 Chairman PAUL J. BISHOP RICHARD R. DAVIS ’62 PAUL T. FRYE ’12 MICHAEL J. GALLAGHER, JR. ’80 LORI A. JOHNSTON JOHN P. KRAUS ’79 SARAH A. MCHUGH JOHN R. PIERCE, JR., ED.D. ’82 REV. GEOFFREY N. ROSE, OSFS PAUL A. SANCHEZ ’98 CORY J. THOMPSON ’96

Knight Life is published twice yearly for the alumni, friends, and families of St. Francis de Sales School, 2323 W. Bancroft St., Toledo, OH 43607-1399. sfsknights.org/alumni

facebook.com/sfsalumni

@SFS_Alumni

Copyright © 2023 St. Francis de Sales School. Printed in November 2023.

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‘A mission with a school’ Seventy-five percent of religious orders are expected to close over the next decade. The Very Rev. Joe Newman, OSFS ’03 has no intention of the Oblates of St. Francis de Sales being one of them.

In a significant generational shift, Fr. Newman, 39, became the top leader of the order’s Toledo-based province over the summer.

Flanking him are three assistants with an average age of 41 – all St. Francis grads from the late 1990s and early 2000s.

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The province, known as the ToledoDetroit Province, is focusing on the Toledo part, making a well-discerned bet that by living in close community, strengthening its Toledo apostolates, and going back to its roots, vocations will follow.

“I don’t think it’s any surprise that vocations have become a top priority for the province,” Fr. Newman said in a Knight Life interview. There are presently 37 Oblates in the province,

which spans from Western New York to California.

“It’s a desire to share the love of this life with people,” he said. “As I look at that intentionally around vocations now, it’s also this call that we can continue to be at St. Francis de Sales School for decades and decades and decades to come.”

“I am filled with the hope that once again young men will fall in love with the Oblates,” he said.

Regional focus on Toledo

Toledo is the community of choice for young men entering the Oblates, Fr. Newman said.

“What I see in the desire of the hearts of many young guys is to come here to Toledo,” he told Knight Life. “They want to return. They can’t wait to come back. Of course, they’re in formation, but it’s a testament not only to SFS but to the Toledo community.”

“Something is working on their hearts that they want to be here,” he said.

Fr. Newman emphasized that the Oblates are committed to St. Francis de Sales School as an anchor of their ministry in the Toledo region.

“This place has been fruitful ground for us,” he said. “It’s an absolute anchor to who we are. A large number of people encounter us through this ministry. It’s essential to this model.”

“We’re not a school with a mission, we’re a mission with a school,” he said. “What we’re doing here is part of the larger Oblate vision.”

Fr. Newman is highly familiar with the school.

He most recently served as vice president before his appointment as provincial. He continues to serve as St. Francis de Sales High School Foundation chairman, and as a teacher.

Fr. Newman graduated in 2003 following his brother, Michael ’99, also an Oblate priest, and his late brother John ’00. Their father Michael is a staple on the sidelines of Knight athletics events, and mom

Andrea is known to be generous with her hospitality.

“They are good people who are very generous, with their time, talents, and treasure, and they do it lovingly to help other people,” said Rev. Ronald Olszewski, OSFS ’62. “It’s no surprise that they gave two of their sons to the Oblates to continue that legacy of Christian service.”

‘He allows you to grow’

In addition to vocation promotion, Fr. Newman is focusing on spiritual renewal and leadership development, not only within the province but in its ministries as well.

He said a transformational gift from Nancy and Dick Davis ’62 to St. Francis de Sales School helped the Oblates recognize that their leadership skills were desired traits in the world.

The philanthropic gift helped create the Salesian Leadership Initiative at St. Francis, which cultivates humble confidence, authentic relationships, and servant leadership.

Fr. Newman co-teaches the course Leadership in the Salesian Tradition at St. Francis, where he shares the teachings of St. Francis de Sales with Knights.

“We worked a lot on EQ, which is your emotional intelligence,” said Nathan Zickes ’24, a former student of Fr. Newman. “He knows how to get ideas out of you that you don’t quite see. He allows you to grow and not force growth upon you.”

Zickes called Fr. Newman “a priest who puts himself on the same playing field as you.”

“He’s relatable in the sense that he’s not top dog, he’s not looking at you for your faults,” Zickes said.

“He recognizes his own faults and uses them as examples of how to bounce back.”

ministries as a place where people can work out their holiness, not just students and parishioners, but employees, families, and graduates as well.

“It’s not just for students, it’s for everyone here,” he said.

From his office behind the school, Fr. Newman has been brushing up on the Oblate constitutions, going back to the words of Blessed Louis Brisson, OSFS, the order’s founder, and finding a compelling message for today’s world.

“The message given to us from Francis through Brisson is absolutely critical right now,” he said. “No matter who you are it softens your heart, that you can see the person of God in the person across from you.”

Fr. Newman emphasized the importance of spiritual friendships.

His interest in the topic recently deepened after he attended an SFS reunion event where he noticed friends reconnecting.

“Generations of graduates come back, and you realize that the friends they have 40, 50 years out are the friends they have from St. Francis,” he said. “We know there’s a special opportunity at this place, at this time to form those friendships.”

“Our spirituality is built on the spiritual friendship between St. Francis de Sales and St. Jane de Chantal,” he said. “How do we start to form these spiritual friendships so that our graduates become the saints?”

Return to the sources

Fr. Newman envisions Oblate

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Knight Shift PERSONNEL CHANGES BRING ALUMNI FAMILIES BACK TO ST. FRANCIS

Did you know? There are more than

50 graduates on the SFS payroll in fields including administration, student support, coaches, musical, advancement, and facilities.

Jennifer Briner

Chris Dyer

Jennifer Briner, mom of alumnus Lucas Briner ’21, is the director of enrollment management. She previously served in Notre Dame Academy’s admissions office. She works alongside Eric Honisko ’11, associate director of enrollment management.

Tyler Clark ’11 is the new SFS marketing and communications manager. Tyler comes with experience from working with the Toledo Mud Hens and Walleye.

Jenni Kruger, sister of Jeff Davis ’10, came to SFS this summer as the school attendance clerk.

Nathan Gullette ’17 returned to SFS as the assistant athletic director, as Chris Dyer ’08 resumed full-time teaching, including AP Human Geography and AP Psychology.

Four Alumni Take Oblate Reins

L to R: Fr. Alan Zobler, Fr. Michael Newman, Fr. Joe Newman, Fr. Craig Irwin

For the first time in Oblate history, four St. Francis de Sales School alumni comprise the Toledo-Detroit Province’s top leaders.

The Most Rev. Barry Strong, OSFS, the Oblates’ superior general, appointed the Very Rev. Joe Newman, OSFS ’03 as provincial superior of the Toledo-Detroit province over the summer.

The Oblates selected three SFS alumni as provincial councilors to assist Fr. Newman: ● Very Rev. Alan Zobler, OSFS ’98, SFS math teacher; ● Very Rev. Michael Newman, OSFS ’99, pastor of Holy Family Parish in Adrian; ● Very Rev. Craig Irwin, OSFS ’03, associate pastor of Gesu and St. Pius X churches.

Stephanie Lenkey returned to SFS George Schaefer to teach English. She is the mom of Parker ’23, Spencer ’25, and Avery Lenkey ’29.

Drew Stark

Jim Neary

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Coach George Schaefer, a longtime physical education teacher whose lifeguard training helped Knights save numerous lives at Toledo-area pools, retired after three decades. His sons Kyle ’09 and Kory Schaefer ’17 are SFS graduates. Drew Stark ’15 will now teach lifeguarding, while Jim Neary ’96 is the new head track & field coach.

K.C. Vitaniemi, mom of SFS alumni Brennan ’21 and Patrick ’22, is the new director of student life and coordinator of the Salesian Leadership Initiative, following the retirement of Cathy Trimble after more than 12 years of service. Cathy’s tenure began as a substitute teacher while her sons Zak ’10 and Connor ’13 attended SFS.

Janice Schlachter

Julie James

Because the provincial appoints the SFS president and principal, Fr. Joe Newman resigned his previous position as SFS vice president. He continues to serve on the SFS board of trustees and teaches. He also remains chairman of the St. Francis de Sales High School Foundation.

Administrative duties previously held

by Fr. Newman were assumed by Janice Schlachter, appointed chief marketing officer, and Julie James, appointed chief financial officer.

Schlachter joined SFS in 2016 as director of marketing. She is the wife of Tim Schlachter ’83, mom of Ben ’19 and David ’27, and daughter-in-law of Barney Schlachter ’60.

James came to St. Francis in 2014 and is the mom of alumni Duncan Borland ’22 and Connor Borland ’23.

Back on Bancroft Next generation of alumni administrators begin at SFS Three young alumni are the latest to join the more than four dozen alumni already at SFS.

educational institution, it’s a catalyst for good in Toledo and beyond.”

Jenny, Joe ’12, Johnny ’14, and Stephen ’17 – down the street.

Tyler Clark ’11, Eric Honisko ’11, and Nathan Gullette ’17 each returned to West Bancroft Street in the past year, bringing them closer to the institution that helped raise them.

Clark’s mom Diane (Comes) Clark (NDA ‘75) grew up on Perth Street in Bancroft Hills, and his uncles Chip ’71, Bob ’73, and Dave Comes ’75 attended SFS. His brother Ryan Clark ’05 followed in their uncles’ footsteps.

“It was a blessing that they became part of St. Francis, and even further now with Nathan following in his mother’s footsteps of great service to the school,” said Tom Antonini.

There are more than 50 graduates on the SFS payroll in fields including administration, student support, coaches, musical, advancement, and facilities.

“There’s something about this place that draws people back,” said Will Garbe ’10, alumni engagement officer. “Each of us knows our lives were permanently changed by our experiences at St. Francis, and these latest additions to our staff share that conviction.”

“As has been said here for many years, ‘Once a Knight, always a Knight,’” Garbe said.

Tyler Clark ’11 This summer, St. Francis announced Clark as the school’s new marketing and communications manager, following a decade of experience with the Toledo Mud Hens and Toledo Walleye.

“There was, in the back of my head, one job that I told myself I’d always pursue, and it was here at St. Francis,” Clark said. “It was an easy decision to get back involved in the school.”

“To come back and work with people who were part of my journey is very special,” Clark said. “St. Francis is not just an

“I’ve tried to get Tyler back to St. Francis several times because of his marketing expertise and connection to our mission,” said Rev. Geoff Rose, OSFS, president. “I’m excited to see Tyler grow the school’s efforts to tell our story and differentiate ourselves in the community.”

Nathan Gullette ’17 Gullette – the last of four brothers who stretched 10 years at St. Francis – is the new assistant athletic director.

“I’ve always had a love for St. Francis,” Gullette said. “There’s a different feeling when you have a connection with the school.”

His brothers – Kyle ’10, Brady ’12, and Stephen ’14 – forged the path to St. Francis, with sister Grace often tagging along. Their dad, Doug, became a fixture at SFS events, many of which were run by their mom, Kathy, who retired from SFS in 2021 after 15 years.

As Cincinnati natives, the Gullettes didn’t have an allegiance to any Toledo high schools when they arrived in 2004. That is, until they met the Antoninis – Tom ’81,

“He’s a good, genuine, hard-working person for wherever he ends up, and hopefully that’s St. Francis for a long, long time,” Antonini said.

Eric Honisko ’11 Honisko knows the importance of the Knight Brotherhood. That’s why he’s devoting the next chapter of his career toward bringing the best men to Bancroft Street.

Few know the impact of the SFS mission like Eric. During Eric’s senior year, his dad suffered a fatal heart attack at age 59.

His brother Knights carried him through. He stayed strong throughout the service at Our Lady of Perpetual Help, struck by the sea of blue-blazered classmates in the pews.

And in the last moments, as they stood before the hearse, it hit him.

“I turned around and all my classmates were in line to give me a hug,” Eric said, recalling that first hug given by Aaron Schenk ’11.

“I let go, and he didn’t,” Eric said. “And that’s when I lost it.”

“My goal is to get as many young men as I can in here, because those who don’t come here are missing out,” he said.

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A Change In Their Armor REFLECTING ON THE 2023 GRADUATION CLASS

Few ways are as effective to measure the impact of St. Francis de Sales School than to look at the product – the men who graduate each year. This past spring, 150 seniors graduated, earning their diplomas and the alumni status shared by the roughly 10,000 Knights before them.

They demonstrate the student experience of a class that rose to exceptional heights – including state championships, national records, and millions of scholarship dollars – and endured deep heartaches, from the outbreak of the pandemic to the loss of a classmate to gun violence.

This section highlights three student addresses given on Graduation Day.

These stories reflect their love of St. Francis de Sales: the school, the person, and the brotherhood.

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“

There is no price tag in the world for what this school has provided for us.

‘TOGETHER, AS BROTHERS’ Scotty Buff ’23 Salesian Reflection

CLASS OF 2023

BY THE NUMBERS

150 graduating seniors $11.5 million in college scholarships 160 colleges accepting SFS students 17,190 hours of community service 187 Advanced Placement exams 11 letters of intent to participate in collegiate varsity athletics

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– Scotty Buff ’23

● Fr. [Alan] Zobler, OSFS ’97, all his tests, which I don’t think anyone has passed since the year we were born.

Scotty Buff made history in February 2023 when he broke the national high school record for the 100 butterfly with a time of 44.97 seconds at the Ohio Division I Championships. Today, he swims for the University of Florida, where he studies biochemistry. He is the son of Keri and Tony Buff of Bowling Green.

We have done all this, together, as brothers.

The following is an excerpt from Scotty’s Salesian Reflection delivered after Baccalaureate Mass at Gesu Church, edited for ease of reading.

… Last summer, we stood as a class right in front of this altar, and cried. We reminisced over how such an incredible brother as Marvelous Walton ’23 could be taken away from us so soon.

We have done it. We are here on Graduation Day. We have finished high school. After four years, today is the day we get to walk across the stage.

I mean, look what we have been through:

The brotherhood we have all built with each other here over the past four years is unprecedented. The times we have been through, the ups and the downs, none of this would happen without this building here. The faculty, staff, and coaches here are so invested in our futures… We would not be the people we are right now without this building.

● Covid abruptly forced our freshman year to come to an end. Quarantine, social distancing, and Dean of Men Mr. [Caleb] Fortner putting the thermometer gun point-blank to our heads before we entered the school every day. ● Our hockey team, Jacob “Cheddar” Meyers ’23 and Braden Caster ’23, brought home the state championship – then, the following year, runners-up. The water polo team has been state runners-up for two years in a row now.

● The number of Masses and Salesian Reflections we have sat through, probably in the 40s now.

And I mean the swimming pool helps, too... All these reasons are why my family and I drive 35 minutes to school every day. There is no price tag in the world for what this school has provided for us. …God has called us to do many things, but finding what we love as we enter the adult world is extremely important. Not only will it make whatever we do easier because we love it, but because we love it, we will become more successful.

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Ethan Little attends the University of Notre Dame, where he studies computer science. Ethan played soccer and tennis at St. Francis, and was a member of the National Honor Society. He is the son of Kristin and JP Little of Sylvania.

The following is an excerpt from Ethan’s valedictory address delivered at the Peristyle, edited for ease of reading.

‘PROVIDE FOR THE COMMON GOOD’

Ethan Little ’23 Valedictorian

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Brothers, we, along with the boundless love of our parents and the undying patience of our teachers have spent the past four years laying the groundwork for our future. And based on what I have witnessed over these years, I’m more certain than I’ve ever been on any test question that every last person sitting in these seats before me has the ability to do great things.

With that being said, success won’t be knocking at your door tomorrow night.

Just as you worked to walk across this stage, you will have to work to succeed in life. Now when I say the word “success” I’m sure a different image comes to each one of your minds, so I want to clarify what I mean by this.

Some of you may remember this definition from Mr. [Don] Conry’s class: “the sum total of social conditions which allow people, either as groups or as individuals, to reach their fulfillment more fully and more easily.”

That is the definition of “the common good” according to the Catechism of the Catholic Church.

To provide for the common good is the goal that I hope all of you will strive for.

When we convene again for our 50th year class reunion, I want the world to look better than it does now as a direct result of the work we have done.

So I challenge all of you to look for the flaws in our society, the inequalities, the injustices, and find out how you can help with your unique God-given gifts. The issues may seem too big, and too complex, but you will find more fulfillment in this than any amount of individual success. So go out there and find it.

When we convene again for our 50th year class reunion, I want the world to look better than it does now as a direct result of the work we have done.

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Individual success is great, but that’s not the end goal that I hope to inspire in you. No, as Knights, we should aspire for something much greater.

”

– Ethan Little ’23

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We must continue to live out the same Salesian virtues taught to us during our time here into our adult lives.

Frank Schuster participated in cross country, math club, musical, National Honor Society (president), and quiz bowl at St. Francis. He attends Michigan State University and studies nuclear physics. He is the son of Jim and Heather Schuster of Sylvania.

The following is an excerpt from Frank’s salutatory address delivered at the Peristyle, edited for ease of reading. … As freshmen, we fought through our awkwardness, our nerves, our teen angst and began to get involved in this famed, familiar “brotherhood.”

We built authentic companionship in our classes and extracurricular activities and over time could recognize each other as brother Knights. We persevered through the new hardship of high school athletics, though to this day, I insist none compared to the anguish of cross country. Through late nights cramming for tests and frantic last-minute exchanges of notes, we learned that the SFS coursework isn’t one to be taken lightly.

But as the years built up at St. Francis de Sales School, so did our appreciation

of these hardships, our brotherhood, and the lessons instilled in us through our teachers and the works of St. Francis de Sales. “Be who you are and be that well.” Suaviter et Fortiter, gently but firmly. Living with humble confidence.

”

– Frank Schuster ’23

Reminiscing through the lenses of these values, I hope all of us can find the greater significance of our experiences at SFS and see how we’ve grown through our struggles and perseverance. None of us would be the same men we are today without that failure. … I could reminisce all day about my experiences at St. Francis and how much they’ve helped me grow, but … what’s important is how we honor the growth and values we’ve inherited across these four years into our futures.

The Class of 2023 must be an active witness to the values offered at St. Francis de Sales School. That is to say, we must continue to live out the same Salesian virtues taught to us during our time here into our adult lives: an active witness to brotherhood, an active witness to Suaviter et Fortiter, and all of the teachings we’ve grown so familiar with. As long as we do that, we will always be Knights and today will simply mark a change in our armor.

‘AN ACTIVE WITNESS TO BROTHERHOOD’ Frank Schuster ’23 Salutatorian

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A new plaque, given by the Class of 2023, marks the Senior Steps.

A STEP ABOVE THE REST New Plaque Marks Senior Steps Tradition In a fitting gift for a senior class, the Class of 2023 purchased a new plaque memorializing the tradition of the Senior Steps.

The brushed metal plaque details the history of the steps.

It reads: This stairway is open to all except St. Francis de Sales underclassmen, who earn use of these steps upon matriculation to senior year.

A sacrosanct tradition for generations, these steps represent the discipline achieved by a St. Francis senior. While legends detail the fates handed to students who dared violate this norm, true obedience to this tradition necessitates neither

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force nor fear – rather, all underclassmen should earnestly respect the role assumed by their senior brothers for their own benefit and that of the school.

For nearly 50 years, the steps were the school’s main exterior entrance until they were removed and rebuilt using the exact same footprint during extensive renovations in 2004. Adorned with the original metal ornamentation, the current steps were rededicated on January 31, 2005 in honor of the 50th Anniversary of the School.

This historical narrative is a gift of the Class of 2023 to all who share in this tradition.

Returning students enter through the front door on the first day of school in 1959.

Will Midgley ’05 and Con Nolan ’58 cut the ribbon on January 31, 2005.

A freshman mops in 1970 as punishment.

The original metal ornamentation was reincorporated into the modern steps.

Charlie Arquette ’23 bounds down the Senior Steps during a water polo state championship send-off. The steps are the centerpiece for state championship send-offs.

Workers in a cherry picker perform work where the old Senior Steps stood in this 2004 photo.

The Class of 2004 was the last class to use the “old” steps before they were destroyed.

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Good News

for Anyone Who Pays Ohio Income Tax! Use your Ohio tax money to support St. Francis de Sales Scenario for Donation of $1,500 Total Ohio Income Tax Liability Donation to SFS (Tax Credit)

$5,000 $1,500

Tax liability now due to Ohio

$3,500

How does it work?

1. Estimate your tax liability

Review line 8C on your 2022 Ohio IT

1040 form to estimate your 2023 tax liability.

2. Contribute to the SFS Foundation –

Your gift of up to $750 per individual or $1,500 per joint

return helps transform young men’s lives.

3. Claim your Ohio

tax credit – Your donor

acknowledgement letter will

reference that your donation qualifies for the tax credit.

For detailed information: sfsknights.org/SGO

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Ohio taxpayers can now send their tax dollars directly to the St. Francis de Sales High School Foundation to benefit young Knights, with little to no sacrifice required.

The extraordinary measure, approved by the state legislature and signed into law by Gov. Mike DeWine, gives a dollar-for-dollar tax credit against an Ohio tax liability for donations made to a scholarship granting organization, or SGO. The tax credit is available up to $750 per individual, or $1,500 per joint tax return.

‘Win-win’

The SGO tax credit is a novel way of funding Catholic education, and has already been implemented in a number of states.

Zawisza, the director of advancement operations, said the donation to the SFS Foundation can be made in one gift, or spread out over weeks or months.

“For $125 a month you could take full advantage of this tax credit and have the money deducted from your bank account,” Zawisza said. “It’s money for the school, and it doesn’t cost our donors any more than they’d already have to pay by law in taxes.”

The donation to the SFS Foundation must be made by Tax Day for the prior year. The SFS Foundation must reapply to the state for eligibility each year.

“It’s a win-win for St. Francis and our donors,” said Rob Loeb ’81, a Toledo-based financial planner with Venture Visionary Partners. “It’s a tremendous gift from the state of Ohio.”

“We encourage everyone to talk to their financial or tax advisors regarding how this could reduce their Ohio tax liability and help our Knights,” Zawisza said.

Unlike a tax deduction, the SGO is a tax credit.

One of the most eager donor groups to participate in the SGO tax credit are St. Francis faculty and staff, who have already pledged more than $40,000 in donations.

“As a financial planner, I’ve never seen anything that entices people to give like this, where Ohio taxpayers can potentially make all their money back up to the $1,500 limit for many donors,” Loeb said. “Every Ohio donor who has a tax liability should consider doing this, in addition to what they’re already giving to St. Francis.”

St. Francis encourages donors to consult their financial or tax advisor regarding their individual tax situations.

Options Available

St. Francis has named Dan Zawisza ’92 to handle donor questions about the SGO initiative.

“We’re helping to educate our Ohio donor base on this unique opportunity,” Zawisza said. “I compare this to a zero-interest loan you make to the school that is paid back by the state.”

Faculty Participation Tops $40k

“If you have to pay the money anyway, why not give it to St. Francis where you know your dollars will do good?” said Drew Stark ’15, a science teacher and JV baseball coach.

Another group eager to give are young alumni with less disposable income, who must pay taxes anyway and can now choose to direct their Ohio tax dollars to St. Francis.

“This is an easy way for young people to start giving to St. Francis,” Stark said. “It costs you nothing, and directly benefits our school.”

For more information contact: Dan Zawisza ’92 Director of Advancement Operations 419-214-5441 dzawisza@sfsknights.org sfsknights.org/SGO This information does not represent financial or legal advice. Please consult your financial or tax advisor regarding your individual tax situation.

Ohio Rev. Code §5747.73.

Class Notes 1959 1 The Class of 1959 meets regularly for lunch.

For details on upcoming lunches, contact John Granata at jgranata2@gmail.com. Dennis Coy, John Nowaczyk, Tom Kwiatkowski, John Granata, Jim Comes, Don Billmaier, Sam Wozniak, Tim Paluszak, Marty Nassr & Will Garbe ’10 at a recent Class of 1959 lunch.

1962 2 Dick Davis met with students in Very Rev. Joe Newman, OSFS ’03’s Salesian Leadership Class. The class is supported by the Rev. Ronald Olszewski, OSFS ’62 Endowed Chair for Leadership Development, which is generously supported by Dick and his wife Nancy.

Gary Johnson received an induction to the Akron St. Vincent-St. Mary High School Athletic Hall of Fame for his 31 years of work as a game announcer.

1965 3 Bernie Barrow and his family enjoyed a twoman scramble at Sawmill Creek Golf Club in Huron, Ohio. Those pictured from left are Matt ’92, Thomas ’20, Matthew ’18, Gabe ’18, Beau ’89, Josh ’94 of Seattle and his son Pierce,

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Bernie ’65, John ’90 of Rockville, Maryland and his son Nathan, Rev. Alan Zobler, OSFS ’97, Dino ’99 of Austin, Texas and his sons Connor and Grayson, and David ’99 of Seattle. Six Knight sons and three Knight grandsons!

1966 4 Larry Boyer received recognition from the Press Club of Toledo during its Touchstone Awards at the Valentine Theater. Boyer is a charter member of the Press Club, a longtime board manager, executive vice president and senior lending officer at Waterford Bank.

1967 Cormac B. DeLaney was awarded the 2022 Ohio Association of Civil Trial Attorneys Excellence In Advocacy Award.

1969 The Class of 1969 meets regularly for lunch.

Contact Steve Vieson for more details at stetracv@aol.com.

6 Gary Wirth hosted classmates at his lake house in Lake Lanier, Georgia, to celebrate their 70th birthdays. Joining Gary were Bill Gerst, Tom Ainsworth, Phil Zmuda, and Paul Hinkelman. From left: Bill Gerst, Tom Ainsworth, Phil Zmuda, Gary Wirth, Paul Hinkelman

1972 Mike Aumiller was inducted into the Greater Toledo USBC Bowling Hall of Fame. He retired in June 2019 after a career of 43.5 years working in the field of transportation and logistics. He enjoys working part time in security for the Toledo Museum of Art and as an usher for the Toledo Mud Hens. Oh yes, he also still very much enjoys bowling and being a youth bowling coach for more than 30 years.

1971 5 The Class of 1971 regularly gathers for meals. For details on upcoming get-togethers,

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contact Mike Scalzo at scalzo@marshallmelhorn.com. Pictured at Biaggi’s from left are Mike Willinger, Mike Scalzo, Mike McKelvey, Denny Polito, Bill Conlisk, Gerry Amborski, Paul Pellioni, and Patrick Kriner.

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1973 7 The Class of 1973 celebrated its 50th Reunion over the summer. The Knights and their significant others met in Toledo for a weekend of fun, including a Mud Hens game, Mass, and BBQ dinner at St. Francis.

‘Forever First’ Class of 1958 marks 65th reunion

1973 & 1975 Phil ’73 and Joel Andryc ’75 are co-producers of PARADE, which won a 2023 Tony Award for Best Musical Revival.

1977 Sean Carroll received his first Academy Award nomination for the documentary film “All That Breathes.” The film, on HBO Max, stars two brothers from Delhi and thousands of birds sick from the city’s pollution. The brothers nurse the birds to health in their limited spare time, a feat that dazzled audiences and won gold at the Sundance and Cannes film festivals.

1978 Frank Graff won a regional Emmy Award for his work at PBS North Carolina on a program called State of Change. The program featured “stories of resilience from people on the front lines of climate change in North Carolina.” He is executive producer at the station.

For the first time in St. Francis de Sales School history, a class celebrated their 65th Reunion!

The Class of 1958 - known as the “Forever First” class - met for a reunion at Heather Downs Country Club, formerly owned by classmate Al Mocek ’58.

These pioneers were the first students at St. Francis when the school opened in 1955.

When they arrived, the concrete sidewalks hadn’t even cured, and there weren’t enough desks for all the classrooms. Most came as sophomore transfers from Central Catholic High School, where the Oblates of St. Francis de Sales previously taught.

In addition to the dinner at Heather Downs, the group also spent time at a St. Francis tailgate and football game, and celebrated Mass with Rev. Ronald Olszewski, OSFS ’62, who during the above photo quickly added, “Remember, I’m four years younger than these guys!”

Special thanks to Tom Gouttierre ’58 for his prowess in organizing his classmates.

Andryc brothers win Tony Award Phil ’73 and Joel ’75 win for PARADE

Retirement has enabled Phil ’73 and Joel Andryc ’75 the opportunity to write an exciting new chapter in their careers.

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Phil and Joel are co-producers of PARADE, which won a 2023 Tony Award for Best Musical Revival.

They are thrilled to be active members of the Broadway community but more importantly, they’re very proud to be a part of a show that delivers so many relevant messages for our times.

PARADE tells the true story of a “rush-to-judgement” trial that culminated with the brutal anti-Semitic lynching of an innocent man in Georgia, circa 1915. Yet today, over 100 years later, the show reminds audiences that we still encounter the same type of prejudices in society and mob mentalities.

It’s Phil and Joel’s hope that this Tony Award will help raise the awareness of all marginalized people who are oppressed and victimized on a daily basis.

The brothers both credit their years at St. Francis as providing a foundation to their career successes and for them becoming advocates against intolerance of any kind.

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8 Mike Wielgopolski proudly returned home from Camden Yards in Baltimore with a game ball.

The ball, lobbed over the foul net by the Tigers shortstop and intended for Joe Sweeney ’83, slipped over Sweeney’s ungloved fingers on an attempted one-hand catch. The quickreflexed Wielgopolski dove for the loose ball, going wheels up over a row of seats. Orioles fans responded to the incredible feat – witnessed by Will Garbe ’10 – with cheers and laughter. Wielgopolski quipped, “I wasn’t gonna let some Orioles fan go home with it.”

1980 Greg Marciniak retired from the Jefferson County (Texas) Mosquito Control District in 2021 after 27 years as an entomologist. He served as Texas Mosquito Control Association president.

9 Tom Walter and his wife Cheryl completed the IRONMAN 70.3 Ohio in Sandusky in July. The feat included a 1.2-mile swim in Lake Erie, a 56-mile bike trek, and a 13.3 mile run.

1981 Jeff Mielcarek received the 2022 Monsignor Jerome Schmit CYO Service Award for his decades of service to the CYO program. Jeff served as Director of CYO Athletics for the Diocese of Toledo from 1986 to 2015. He referees CYO basketball, which he began his freshman year at St. Francis. He is also the general manager at Twos Athletic Club.

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1983 10 The Class of 1983 gathered for its 40th reunion, including a BBQ dinner at St. Francis and extended festivities at Stubborn Brother.

1984 11 Nelson Shaffer regularly hosts dinners for St. Francis classmates and friends. Last year, Nelson hosted a “make up” reunion for Bob Nunnally ’82, whose long remote assignments as a nuclear medicine technologist caused him to miss his 40th reunion. From left: Nelson Shaffer ’84, Dave Boezi ’82, Robert Zirker ’82, John Jordan ’81, Bob Nunnally ’82, and Dean Yakumithis ’81.

12 Keith Warren stopped by St. Francis during a visit to Toledo. While there, he met with Rev. Ronald Olszewski, OSFS ’62 and shot a few hoops in the Pit. Keith played on the history-making 1983 state championship basketball team.

1987 Steve Rudnicki lives in San Bernardino, California, with his wife Jennifer of more than 10 years. They have a blended family with eight children and five grandchildren, including a pair of twin boys! They also have a maltipoo named Obi-One. Steve serves on the pastoral council at St. Anthony’s Upland, is the head of hospitality, and assists with men’s spirituality. He is the owner of RE/MAX Foothills.

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1988 Judge Myron Duhart received the Distinguished Service Award from Legal Aid of Western Ohio and Advocates for Basic Legal Equity. “Time and time again, Judge Duhart has shown his steadfast commitment to our joint mission of supporting people living in poverty in northwest Ohio with free civil legal assistance through his time and generous financial contributions. He has been a true warrior for justice,” the organizations said in a statement.

David Lyons is a University of Chicago professor teaching political thought in the undergraduate college. He married Gretchen in 2016, and the pair have two daughters. Amelia was born in 2017 and Helena followed in 2021. He (finally!) completed his PhD from the University of Chicago in 2017.

“It’s a good life if you don’t weaken,” he said.

Patrick Rybarczyk is a philanthropy officer with the world-renowned Lyric Opera of Chicago. He is excited to return to arts administration after nearly 15 years with Loyola University Chicago’s online graduate legal programs.

1989 Alex Neeb is the vice president of research and development at Coterie, a disposable diaper company focused on reducing environmental impact and increasing comfort.

He caught the science bug in Donald “Doc” Murad’s AP Physics class. Alex lives in Charlotte, North Carolina.

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1990 13 Bishop Earl Fernandes was thrilled to give a blessing to world-famous Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli and his daughter before his concert in Columbus. Andrea Bocelli poses with his daughter, Virginia, Bishop Earl Fernandes ’90, and the bishop’s nephew Sid Fernandes ’19.

14 Dean Sniegowski earned his Air Force brigadier general star in 2022. He’s the vice commander of the 10th Air Force, Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base Fort Worth, Texas.

He’s served in the Air Force since his 1995 commissioning through the Air Force Reserve Officer Training Program at Eastern Michigan University, and has held assignments in a variety of flying, staff, and command assignments.

15 Wade Kapszukiewicz, Toledo’s mayor, met Snoop Dogg during the rapper’s concert in Toledo. He said, “I once put my name through a Snoop Dogg translator and it came out as ‘Wizzle Kapszukizzle.’” Snoop Dogg, center, poses with Toledo First Lady Sarah Weglian and Mayor Wade Kapszukiewicz.

1993 16 The Class of 1993 gathered for its 30th reunion, including a BBQ dinner at St. Francis.

17 Matt Viertlbeck received a promotion to battalion chief in the Toledo Fire and Rescue Department. He was joined by his wife, Maggie,

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his father, retired Lt. Tom Viertlbeck, and six children, including Charlie Viertlbeck ’22 and Jack Viertlbeck ’23, at the pinning ceremony last summer. From left: Charlie, Jack, Matt, Mason (age 11), Maggie, Annie (8), Max (13) and Emma (NDA ’25).

1995 18 Alex Kelsch and his wife Darcy recently celebrated their 10th wedding anniversary. They have two boys, Sebastian and Spencer. They live in Rochester, Minnesota, where Alex is a robotics coordinator at the Mayo Clinic.

19 Kris Wehner spoke to fellow 1995 classmate Scott Secrest’s honors physics classes, as well as Mike Blochowski’s AP Computer Science classes, about his work in Silicon Valley during a recent visit to St. Francis. Kris works at a major tech company in the Valley. From left: Rev. Geoff Rose, OSFS, president, Scott Secrest, Kris Wehner, and Mike Blochowski.

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dedication to the SFS mission inside and outside the classroom. From left: John Hall ’02, principal; Very Rev. Joe Newman, OSFS ’03, provincial superior; Jim Neary ’96; and Rev. Geoff Rose, OSFS, president.

1997 21 Rev. Alan Zobler, OSFS celebrated Mass at St. Patrick Cathedral prior to running in the New York City Marathon. Alan finished the marathon with a 3:38:25 time. Left to right: Judge Gene Zmuda ’77, Eric Zmuda ’13, Jay Kenney ’08, Patrick Kenney ’79, Mike McGowan ’75, Alan Zobler ’97, Johnny Antonini ’14, and Joe Antonini ’12.

2001 22 Brian Champa married Maddie Burie on Jan. 1, 2022 in Boca Raton, Florida, at a venue near Maddie’s childhood home. Brian works as an architect and project manager for Adventist HealthCare, headquartered in Maryland.

1996 20 Jim Neary received the Don Kober Faculty Award for 2022-2023. Neary teaches precalculus, AP Economics, and AP Statistics.

He is also an assistant coach on the cross country team and new head coach of the track and field team. Coach Kober established the award to recognize outstanding teachers with

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Carroll ’77 gets Oscar nod Fr. Ebenhoeh’s legacy embodied in work Dr. Sean Carroll ’77 – a Toledo kid turned leading biologist and acclaimed filmmaker – received his first Academy Award nomination for the documentary film “All That Breathes.”

The film, on HBO Max, stars two brothers from Delhi and thousands of birds sick from the city’s pollution.

The brothers nurse the birds to health in their limited spare time, a feat that dazzled audiences and won gold at the Sundance and Cannes film festivals.

Carroll is the film’s executive producer and head of studio at the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Twisted Bank Studios.

Carroll’s interest in the natural world exploded at St. Francis.

“I’m very grateful to the school that launched me many years ago,” Carroll said. “My aspirations for science were absolutely fueled from what I learned at St. Francis.”

He credits the late Rev. John Ebenhoeh, OSFS as one of his greatest teachers ever.

Ebenhoeh’s legacy remains in Carroll’s mind in his own work at HHMI. “Great institutions are rare,” Carroll said. “You look at people who have dedicated themselves to the excellence of St. Francis. You look back with gratitude and you think, ‘How do I make my [own] organization stronger?’”

After winning two Emmys and a Peabody Award for previous works, Carroll is a familiar face at awards ceremonies. “All That Breathes” didn’t win, but the Oscars were Carroll’s biggest stage yet. Still, he didn’t dress up.

“After four years of wearing a jacket and tie at St. Francis, I have pursued a career to avoid it for 43 years,” Carroll said.

This article first appeared in the February 2023 edition of Knight Lines, the monthly alumni e-newsletter.

To subscribe, email alumni@sfsknights.org.

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2001 Continued 23 Bill Murphy is a controls engineer at SW North America in New Hudson, Michigan. His wife, Brooke, teaches at Holt High School. His daughters Vanessa, age 8, and Julianna, age 6, are following in dad’s skates as hockey players.

Mike Saccone received the 2023 Environmental Justice 21st-Century “Outstanding Program Award” for his work as Vice President of Communications at the National Wildlife Federation to center equity and justice in his and his team’s work. The national award honors team and leaders for their work to uplift environmental justice.

2002 24 Robert Tucker won for Toledo’s 20 Under 40 award. He is a civil litigation partner at RCO Law in Toledo.

25 Frank Viviano was nominated for Toledo’s 20 Under 40 award. He is president of Bartz Viviano, his family’s flower and gift business.

2003 26 The Class of 2003 gathered for its 20th reunion, including a BBQ dinner at St. Francis.

2004 27 Michael Knight received Toledo’s 20 Under 40 award. He is the owner of Home Slice Pizza in Toledo.

2005 Matt Bell will represent Lucas County on the OneOhio Recovery Foundation committee tasked with distributing $808 million in opioid lawsuit settlement funds.

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28 Ryan Clark married Aleis Pugia in Evergreen, Colorado. Dave Comes ’75 snagged this picture of best man Tyler Clark ’11 celebrating with the couple.

2008 31 Nate Connolly and his wife Laina gave birth to their first child, daughter Rory Jameson. They live in North Carolina.

2006 29 Colin Murtagh is the senior manager for brand marketing at Expedia Group. Travel is part of his work, and it recently took him to the Egyptian pyramids.

Drew Trunk and his wife Taylor welcomed a daughter, Charlotte, in 2022.

Charles Phillips III is the Director of Digital Media Services at Campbell University in Buies Creek, North Carolina. In this role he oversees classroom and venue technology, live production, and post production. He and his wife Ashley welcomed their first child, Charles “Chase” Phillips IV in 2019.

2007 30 Jarin Boyer and Kristen Sheeley were married in 2021 and welcomed a baby girl in May. Jarin is the son of Martin Boyer ’77, and Kristen is the sister of Jamieson Sheeley ’12. From left: Martin Boyer, Kristen Sheeley, Jarin Boyer, and Emie Boyer on Jarin and Kristen’s wedding day.

Matthew Kuron is a major in the U.S. Army, having been promoted to the rank in October.

He earned his law degree from Michigan State University in 2020. He is stationed as a civil affairs officer and battalion chief of operations at the Armed Forces Reserve Center in Tulsa.

Jimmy Hankenhof and wife Tierney are happy to announce a new addition to the family. Julia Rose was born Dec. 8, 2022, following big sister Clare. Jimmy is a relationship manager at Plante Moran, and Tierney teaches 5th grade for Worthington Schools.

2009 Alex Beck and his wife Carly welcomed their first child, Brooks Albert, in June.

32 Jonathan Findlay married Brooke Frazier at Gesu Church with Rev. Marty Lukas, OSFS presiding and Very Rev. Craig Irwin, OSFS ’03 concelebrating. The wedding party included best man Forrest Smietanski ’07 and Bryan Swint ’09.

2010 Eric Aubry and wife Ally welcomed their second son, Beckham Alexander, in October. He joins big brother Liam.

33 Matt Balzer hosted Zack Valigosky, Will Garbe, Andrew Swartz, Connor Mitchell, and Nick Radon at Camp Balzer on Devils Lake. The weekend included boating, paddle boarding, jet skiing, and homemade Korean food prepared by Nick and his wife Ashley. From left: Zack, Will, Andrew, Matt, Connor, and Nick.

Brian Brookover and his wife Emily welcomed their second son, Logan Thomas who joins sister Hayley. Brian and the family live near Scott Air Force Base in Belleville, Illinois.

Kevin Carr married Caitlin McAnall in Key Largo and welcomed a baby boy, Callan Burke.

Brandon Focht and wife Ashley welcomed their second child, Theodore, in February.

34 Greg Fockler was nominated for Toledo’s 20 Under 40 award. He is a financial advisor and owner of Fockler Financial.

Matt Hankenhof married Abby Beham last year at the Historic Church of St. Patrick in Toledo, followed by a reception at the Toledo Zoo. Knights in the wedding party included Jimmy Hankenhof ’07, Jon Hankenhof ’12, Jake Beham ’05, Christian Mocek, Tim Towse, Austin Petrie, and Sean Oberle ’11. Matt works at O-I Glass as a project engineer, and Abby is a school counselor at Notre Dame Academy.

Alex Hayes married Kathryn Bakaly in Chicago last year at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church in Chicago, followed by a reception at the Chicago History Museum. Knights in the wedding party included best man Elliott Hayes ‘18 and Greg Fockler ‘10.

Kendall Layson is the pastor at Greater Glory Church. He is studying to become a teacher, and is enrolled as an Adolescence to Young Adult Education major as part of the “Like Me” program at Lourdes University, which seeks to diversify the educator workforce. He was featured in the Lourdes magazine, AtLourdes.

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35 Alex Marzec was nominated for Toledo’s

20 Under 40 award. He is an attorney and lives in Sylvania with his wife Lauren and their son, Emmett.

2011 36 Tyler Clark returned to St. Francis de Sales as marketing and communications manager. He previously served at Bionix, and before that he served 11 years with the Toledo Mud Hens and Toledo Walleye, including as manager of special events and game presentation. He was nominated last year for Toledo’s 20 Under 40 award.

Jake Corbett and his wife Madison welcomed their first child, Anastasia, in January.

Luke Mallory married Shelby Phillips in November at St. John Vianney Catholic Parish in Mentor, Ohio. Rev. Alan Zobler, OSFS ’97 officiated.

Austin Thees served as best man.

Dan Miller married Clare Scantling at Our Lady, Queen of the Most Holy Rosary Cathedral last year. The couple welcomed their first son, Benedict, in June.

Danny Yodzis and his wife Karlee welcomed their second child, Brody, in February.

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2012 Tad Sobieszczanski and his wife Sarah welcomed their second child, Cam, in July.

Jonathan Hankenhof and wife Kari live in Milford, Ohio. Jonathan is director of product engineering at Dayton Superior Corp., and Kari is a quality engineering specialist at Ford Motor Co. Alex Wisniewski married Claire Barbao at Little Flower Catholic Parish in September. Rev. Alan Zobler, OSFS ’97 officiated and a cocktail hour and reception at the Toledo Zoo followed.

Knights in the wedding party included 2012 grads Parker Bayer, Ben Torchia, and Mitch Wise. Alex is the son of the late Tom (Karen) Wisniewski ’66. Alex and Claire live in Charlottesville, Virginia, where Alex is a research resident at the University of Virginia Department of Surgery.

2013 37 The Class of 2013 gathered for its 10th reunion, including a BBQ dinner at St. Francis and drinks the next day in Downtown Toledo.

38 Alec Falkenberg was nominated for Toledo’s 20 Under 40 award. He is a financial professional with WealthWave in Maumee.

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39 Matthew Zmuda married Caitlin McComish at Gesu Church, with Rev. Alan Zobler, OSFS ’97 presiding. Matthew works as a scout for the Detroit Tigers in the Mid-Atlantic region. Knights from the class of 2013 in the wedding party included best man Eric Zmuda, Hayden Austin, and Jack Reese. Matthew is the son of Judge Gene (Terri) Zmuda ’77.

2015 40 Andy Okuley and his wife Jenn welcomed their daughter Josephine Laurella. Andy works at St. Francis de Sales as a religion teacher and freshman baseball coach. Jenn is coordinator of religious education and spiritual life at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church. Andy Okuley poses with wife Jenn and daughter Josephine at a St. Francis vs. St. John’s hockey game.

2016 41 Gregory Antonini and Josh Szymanski ’17 ran the Nationwide Children’s Hospital Columbus Marathon in October. Antonini finished in 3:26:52. Szymanski clocked in at 4:14:21.

2017 42 Noah Caster completed Army Ranger school – a highly competitive program from which fewer than half the students graduate. Noah is the son of Craig and Bridget Caster and grandson of Tom McGuire ’59.

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43 Nathan Gullette returned to St. Francis de

2019 Joseph Carroll is a tight end on the American International College football team. He plays under former St. Francis coach Dan Chipka for the Yellow Jackets of Springfield, Massachusetts.

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Colin Flanagan served as an extern for Ohio Supreme Court Justice Jennifer Brunner. He is a law student at the University of Toledo and president of the Lucas County Young Democrats.

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44 Ryan Cendol and Connor Sweeney ’19 joined forces to win the Air Force Marathon relay at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Dayton.

2022 46 Mason Foley is working with ESPN+ through a partnership with the University of Cincinnati’s sports media production program. The program was featured in CityBeat, a Cincinnati weekly newspaper. Mason Foley operates a camera at Gettler Stadium in August 2022 for a broadcast for ESPN+. Photo credit: Michael Asher/CityBeat

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2018 Ethan Alday earned his way to the international level in 2022 in senior-level ice dance, competing for New Zealand where he and his partner earned 2nd place at the New Zealand Nationals.

He went on to represent New Zealand in Italy, Croatia, Germany and the U.S.

2021 45 Will Heller placed silver in weightlifting representing Team USA at the University America Games in Merida, Mexico. Will also connected with Bishop Earl Fernandes ’90 at the Seek 23 Conference presented by FOCUS in St. Louis.

Will Heller ’21 and Bishop Fernandes ’90

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Sales as assistant athletic director. Previously, he served as assistant athletic director at La Salle High School in Cincinnati. He is engaged to marry Sara Franceschina in June 2025 in Saugatuck, Michigan.

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2023 47 Jeremy Szymanski received the Father Thomas Leyland Saint Rose Alumni Award.

The recognition is given to someone who demonstrates one or more of the charisms of Saint Rose School: Catholic faith, compassionate community, moral virtue, academic excellence, and servant leadership. He was nominated by Karen Toon, mother of Elliot Toon ’27. Jeremy Szymanski poses with Karen Toon after being awarded the Saint Rose Alumni Award.

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In Memoriam 1958

Fred F. Kellermeier – April 24, 2023

1959

John W. Bender – June 3, 2023 William J. Rerucha – March 2, 2022 Robert F. Schramm, OSFS – June 28, 2022

1960

Joseph C. Beins – September 9, 2023 Michael E. Nortz – February 21, 2023 Frank J. Szczepanski – June 24, 2022

1961

Michael J. Boyer – July 22, 2023 James P. Dziewiatka – January 22, 2022 Lawrence L. Kaufman – January 28, 2023 John E. Kirk – April 3, 2023 Thomas J. Koslovsky – July 15, 2022 Edward J. Poczekaj – February 3, 2022 Mark R. Tipping - January 2, 2023

1962

Roger J. Blank – March 27, 2022 Joseph J. Coyle – March 7, 2022 William M. Dietsch – March 12, 2022 Paul G. Gorman – September 16, 2022 Robert J. Kissner – April 10, 2023 Kenneth P. Koberstein – November 13, 2022 Timothy A. Toffler – August 9, 2023

1963

James C. Croninger – May 22, 2022 James E. Degnan – March 20, 2022 Ronald M. Stoll – January 22, 2023 George R. Trombley – August 8, 2023

1964

Michael J. Nally – June 1, 2022 Walter J. Operacz – July 8, 2022 David J. Walrod – August 29, 2023

1965

Kenneth C. Adamski – June 20, 2023 Franklin A. Durniat – January 21, 2022

1966

Michael S. Mack – December 31, 2022 Thomas A. Noonan – January 17, 2023 William T. Rabara – August 13, 2023 Terence P. Sheehy – January 4, 2022

1967

Douglas L. Avery – July 14, 2023 R. Martin Huff – June 29, 2023 Charles A. Marksch – June 23, 2022

1968

Frank J. Balcerzak – May 9, 2022 Richard M. Fowler – May 19, 2023 James M. Piszchala – June 26, 2023 Jeffrey L. Smith – July 8, 2022

1969

Walter R. Edwards – June 6, 2022 James E. Hodulik – June 24, 2023 George J. Mezinko, Jr. - October 10, 2023 Robert A. Pastorek – May 25, 2023 Adam G. Spieker – February 5, 2022 Daniel W. Sullivan – February 27, 2022 Thomas F. Walker – May 22, 2023

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St. Francis de Sales School remembers the graduates, students, Oblates, faculty, and staff who have recently died. Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them!

1971

Michael J. Chadwick – May 1, 2023 Guy M. Golembiewski – January 22, 2023 Patrick T. Kriner – December 12, 2022 Michael D. Powell – July 26, 2022

1972

Mark C. Dorlay – July 2, 2022 Paul J. Kniss – July 24, 2022 David A. LaVoy – May 10, 2022

1973

Terry J. Fell – November 18, 2022 Robert E. Spry – February 4, 2022

1974

John F. Connolly – April 27, 2022 Joseph A. Perlaky – June 13, 2022

1976

John J. Blaine – June 29, 2022 Kevin C. Lippert – March 29, 2022

1978

Stephen J. Kennedy – June 24, 2023

1980

Norman K. Horner – April 1, 2023

1981

Gerard J. Bradner – April 1, 2023 David L. Swartz – May 30, 2023

1983

Matthew R. Gillen – August 22, 2022 John P. Wagner – May 24, 2023

1985

Timothy P. Reiter – August 30, 2022

1999

Zacharias Barden – November 8, 2022

2005

T. Samuel Lenz – November 7, 2022

2023

Marvelous T. Walton – July 9, 2022

Past Faculty and Staff

William I. Cendese – January 7, 2023 Jerome J. Kreuz – March 29, 2023 Gloria Moulopoulos – August 10, 2023 Virginia Shaver – August 4, 2023

Oblates

James A. Dorazio, OSFS – October 9, 2022 Grant R. Ferris, OSFS – January 17, 2022 John A. Lindsay - October 25, 2023 James A. Petrait – February 3, 2022 H. Paul Ruddy, OSFS – June 13, 2022 Robert F. Schramm, OSFS ’59 – June 28, 2022 The proceeding list includes all graduates, students, Oblates, and past faculty and staff who passed since December 26, 2021, and whose deaths are known to St. Francis de Sales School as of Oct. 26, 2023. We apologize for any errors or omissions.

St. Francis informs alumni of classmate deaths by emailing obituaries to classmates, and relies on the community to keep the school informed of passings. To report the passing of a graduate, past parent, or other community member, or to notify us of a deceased individual not memorialized above, please call 419-214-5443 or email alumni@sfsknights.org.

1986

Gloria Athans Moulopoulos

1987

St. Francis de Sales School celebrates the life of Mrs. Gloria Moulopoulos, whose involvement in the SFS Musical spanned more than two decades. She died August 10, 2023 at age 92.

Todd D. Kalanquin – June 21, 2023 Douglas M. Romstadt - January 16, 2022 Thomas E. Wallerstein – June 16, 2023 John P. Klear - October 2023 Eric S. Letke – April 5, 2023

1988

Brad A. Moores – March 24, 2023

1991

Michael K. Mabrey – February 8, 2023 Jason E. Raczkowski – December 1, 2022

1992

Timothy J. Kwiatkowski – July 13, 2023

1993

Daniel R. Sulier – September 17, 2022

1994

Stephen T. Yoder – November 30, 2022

1995

Patrick R. Malone – October 3, 2022

1997

Barry A. Keel – March 28, 2022 Robert L. MacDonald – May 24, 2023

1930-2023

From 1975 until 1997, Moulopoulos served St. Francis de Sales Musical Theatre in roles including acting coach and director. Her legacy is remembered at St. Francis as it is throughout the local theatre community, that is, highly regarded and respected. As one Knight said in the 1989 Accolade, “while no one was afraid of Mrs. Moulopoulos, everyone still respected her.”

In her own words, she said, “I am often asked, ‘how do you keep your interest, your energy, your enthusiasm going year after year?’ My interest, my energy, my enthusiasm come simply from all the wonderful people with whom I work: my staff and most of all, from these great young high school people.”

We join with many in offering condolences to her children, our alumni, Nick ’75 and Harry ’78, and her daughter Rena.

From the Editor

A change in their armor Editing this issue of Knight Life, a line from Frank Schuster ’23’s salutatorian address struck me.

He said that as long as his class lives an active witness to the Salesian virtues they’ve learned, Graduation Day will “simply mark a change in our armor” (pg. 10).

Frank’s observation complements that of Student Body President Nathan Zickes ’24, who gave an address at the beginning of this present school year, in which he said:

The armor we wear has plenty of scratches, dents, and imperfections. But as we look at our brother Knights, those dents and scratches tell a story and are what make each of us unique individuals. Supporting each other through our imperfections is powerful and is what brings us together.

In my experience, nowhere does this support structure solidify quite as strongly as at Camp DeSales during the senior Salesian Retreats. While my own senior retreat left a significant impact on me, to re-witness the experience a dozen years later as a chaperone is inspiring.

For a weekend, these Knights face the big questions of life: Who am I going to be, and how am I going to be it? In other words, they’re seeking answers to our patron’s instructions: “Be who you are and be that well.” They work these questions like a Rubik’s cube. That they’ll be pushed from their nests in mere months gives the questions significant weight.

Without Snapchat and TikTok, their façades quickly crumble. They reveal to each other the intricacies of their own lives, the “scratches, dents, and imperfections” in their armor. They share hurts, fears, and their own anxieties about the future. By the final night, the tears rolling down their cheeks demonstrate the tenderness of armor pierced by God’s love.

A mentor once reminded me that cookies aren’t finished baking when they leave the oven. These Knights don’t leave the retreat completely transformed. But as one 2023 graduate wrote to me about his St. Francis experience, “My faith has grown more than I anticipated.”

The lessons of the retreat seal in their hearts the teachings of St. Francis de Sales. They wear the gentle armor of Salesian spirituality. They are becoming who they are and they’re doing it well.

And for us at St. Francis and a world thirsting for goodness, they grow the vine.

Will Garbe ’10 Editor, Knight Life wgarbe@sfsknights.org

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