50-YEAR REUNION YEARBOOK St. Louis University High | Class of 1976
Dear Fellow Members of the St. Louis U. High Class of 1976, Fifty-four years ago, we first arrived in the corridors of St. Louis University High School. We were, depending upon on our personalities, happy, excited, anxious, scared, cocky or some combination thereof. Four years later, dressed in our white tuxedos, sitting on the stage at Powell Hall, we may still have been happy, excited, anxious, scared, cocky or some combination thereof. But we were also tremendously proud of our accomplishment. We were young men who had been through four transformative years together and survived (maybe even thrived on) the rigors of a Jesuit education. We knew much more about ourselves – our interests, our talents, our strengths and our weaknesses. We learned together, played together, struggled together and celebrated together. In the classroom, on the athletic fields and in extracurricular activities, many of us formed friendships that have lasted to this day. Today, fifty years after we graduated, we have lived a good portion of the future for which we prepared during our four years of high school. We now live in a world that in the 1970’s would have seemed to be straight out of a science fiction novel taught to us by the SLUH English Department. Yet the values we learned at SLUH in the mid-1970’s are just as relevant and needed today as they were then: being a man for others, caring for those on the margins of society and finding God in all things. One of the hallmarks of SLUH is that it serves students based on their ability to succeed without regard to their family’s financial circumstances. Through your generosity, our class is helping to maintain that tradition by funding a fully endowed scholarship that will help future generations of Jr. Bills develop their talents and better serve God and their communities. Our fiftieth reunion celebration is a chance to remember the triumphs and the struggles of our years at SLUH, to look back on the course our lives have taken since, to celebrate our friendships and to learn about and from each other anew. We especially honor the memories of those classmates we have lost. And we remember the impact St. Louis U. High has had on each of us. With Warm Regards, The SLUH Class of ’76 Reunion Committee Tom Blood, Chris Fava, Matt Grzesiowski, Chris LaBarge, Pat Leahy, Lew Moceri, Rick Nieder, Bill O'Neil, John Paino, Dave Richert, Tom Santel, Joe Vonder Haar
In Memoriam Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them.
Joseph G. Anstey Michael G. Beck Joseph M. Bonwich Brian D. Coad Mark E. Cody Carl J. Downey James T. Dunn Jr. John G. Fitzsimmons Joseph P. Hawk Randal E. Howenstein Thomas G. Junker Thomas B. Krull Patrick M. Langford James J. Merlo James T. Renshaw Jr. Robert W. Schnurr Steven J. Sontag Robert H. Usselman
In Memoriam Joseph G. Anstey
Michael G. Beck
Joseph M. Bonwich
Brian D. Coad
Mark E. Cody
Carl J. Downey
In Memoriam James T. Dunn Jr.
John G. Fitzsimmons
Joseph P. Hawk
Randal E. Howenstein
Thomas G. Junker
Thomas B. Krull
In Memoriam Patrick M. Langford
James J. Merlo
James T. Renshaw Jr.
Robert W. Schnurr
Steven J. Sontag
Robert H. Usselman
Gary Albers Tell us about your family today. My wife Patricia and I have been happily married for 44 years. Three married sons, John Andrew (Drew), Brian, Benjamin all doing well in diverse career paths. As of the reunion, we have 4 grandchildren (Jack 10, Ava 8, Annalise 2, Gus 10 months) with one on the way Spring '27. I am proud of the entire family we have raised. :-)
Where did you go for education after SLUH? Saint Louis University for undergraduate studies, Saint Louis University School of Medicine followed by Residency at SLU. Fellowship studies at University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill.
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? My career in Pediatrics has kept me busy pursuing a passion of keeping children healthy. Except for 3 years in Chapel Hill, NC for part of my training, we have lived in St Louis.
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory? For some reason, Fr. Distler frequently comes into my mind- his stern countenance with a kind heart. Likely because he passed me in Latin without any evidence that he should have. Otherwise, I struggle with naming any one teacher. For me, it was the composite of many good teachers. Photography club was a constant through the years. My close circle of friends to this day are my living favorite memories.
Jim Bante Tell us about your family today. Married for 45 years to Mary-Suzanne Bartone, who I met in college. We have two (natural kids) Kate and Courtney, who live in St. Paul, MN and Chicago, IL respectively. In addition, we have two adopted kids (a niece and nephew). Jill is married and lives in Washington, DC, and Josh is married (with 3 kids) and lives in metro Detroit. Also (why stop here) we have a former foster child, Alex Chivescu, who we consider family.
Where did you go for education after SLUH? After SLUH I went to University of Detroit and graduated in 1980 with a degree in engineering. I then worked in Ohio, and while there, pursued a master’s degree in history (for fun) from Kent State. Then, in 1983, I returned to school full time and completed an MBA from the University of Chicago.
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? After school in Detroit, I lived in Ohio, then Chicago. After business school, I took a job with Chrysler and returned to the Detroit area, where I live today. For a short time in the middle, while at Chrysler, I was transferred to the Washington DC area and lived there for two years. But basically, since 1985 I have lived in Michigan and worked at Chrysler (later DaimlerChrysler, later Cerberus Chrysler, later FiatChrysler and now Stellantis). Nothing remarkable, just marriage and kids. With one exception. As mentioned above, we adopted a niece and nephew, who first came into our lives as foster children. Because of that, we were licensed foster parents. In June 2008, out of the blue, we received a letter from a young man named Alex Chivescu, who said (and I paraphrase), "I am in foster care and the system can’t find me a family. They want me to take the GED and get a job at Starbucks. I have perfect grades and test scores, and I want to go to Harvard. Will you agree to be my foster parents? After some background research, which confirmed his story, we agreed. He moved in a few months later. Then, in early 2009, a local newspaper did a story about him, People magazine saw that story and they did a story on him, Hallmark movie channel saw that and signed him to a movie deal. So, look for a movie named "Finding a Family." There is a minor character named Jim Bante. BTW, Alex went to Harvard, lived and worked in Brazil for awhile, then returned to the US, went to Business School and now lives in San Francisco and works for an AI company.
Jim Bante Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory? My favorite teacher was Dr. James Robinson (Doc Robby), Tough to pick a favorite memory, at this point it is mostly a haze. But many memory snippets of walking the hallways and that distinctive aroma when the radiators were first turned on in the fall.
Bert Bender Tell us about your family today. Married to Kathryn (Kay) Lee since 1993, originally from Detroit (Marian HS, University of Michigan, University of Georgia Law School, retired from Home Depot Law Department). Sons are Brendan Emericus Bender (born in 1996, Woodward Academy for HS, graduated from Reed College in January of 2020, and remains in Portland to this day) and Alex Evans Bender (born in 1998, Woodward Academy for HS, graduated from Brandeis University in 2021, and remains in Boston to this day).
Where did you go for education after SLUH? Saint Louis University (my father was a Professor of Education there, so "the price was right" even if it was awkward with his office in DuBourg Hall overlooking the quad and the various partaking there), then Law School at Northwestern University (admitted to the Joint Law/MBA program, but all the others in the joint program declared that they would become Investment Bankers and I (1) did not then know what that was, and (2) was freaked out by them, so I dropped the MBA track).
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? Despite never setting foot in Atlanta, I got a job offer there with Alston + Bird because I just knew Atlanta would get the Olympic Games and it would be a blast. Firm had maybe 100 lawyers when I started, tried to (and succeeded) at having strong culture -- proud to organize the Associate uprising that brought "360 reviews" (Associates reviewing Partners for how they taught/mentored, not just Partners reviewing Associates). Head down, worked hard, played hard, helped (I think) build a rep as "the happy firm" (sure, long hours, but we thought of it as a sauna, not a "sweat shop"). Evidently unemployable after starting there and with no firm offers despite headhunter calls, I stayed at the firm to the end of 2019, retiring to embark on much travel in ... 2020. ;^( Along the way, raising kids, active in Scouting in various roles, including, while the kids were here, lots of camping and backpacking activities with them as they (a) had fun, (b) made friends, and (c) also became Eagle Scouts (because they wanted to ... with a total of 5 days to spare before their 18th birthdays). Faith Life? Well, after a starter marriage in 1983 ended in divorce by 1988 (which the Roman Church really frowns upon), upon getting engaged to Kay, we decamped to the Episcopal Church, where I've been a Senior Warden twice (so far) and Kay is finishing a Vestry term. Hobbies? Dogs (Labrador Retrievers), Music (from Opera to Punk Rock to JazzFest in New Orleans to Wilco to Grateful Dead/Phish/Goose to Springsteen, seeing him - checks notes - just slightly over once a year since 1978),
Bart Bender Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory? Maybe Mr. Pasqualucci (Freshman year Russian), in part because he was clearly in the "departure lounge" with few fs left to give, including, during a reading on "cafe life" in Moscow, passing a bottle of vodka around. His parting remarks included that it was impossible to teach Russian in an all boys HS since there was no available Russian Erotic Reader. Joe Kramer, of course, whipping us into writers, threatening Jug if Seniors didn't let him butt the line at a Grateful Dead Show. And HBO!
Joe Berra Tell us about your family today. Married to Shannon Speed, Professor and Director of the American Indian Studies Center at UCLA. Shannon is a citizen of the Chickasaw Nation. Two children from my first marriage: Josué 36, a manager with the business consulting firm Grant Thornton. Lives in Pasadena, spouse Courtney Taniguchi. Moses 30, a software engineer with Khan Academy. Lives in East Hollywood, partner Jasmine Mithani. Stepdaughter Camila 28 works in the film industry. Lives with us with partner Noah Coombs.
Where did you go for education after SLUH? B.A. in Philosophy from Saint Louis Univ.; Masters in Theology from the Universidad Centroamericana José Simeón Cañas (Jesuit university in El Salvador); M.A. in Anthropology from the University of Texas Austin; J.D. from St. Mary’s University San Antonio.
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? As a mentor once said, life takes a lot turns. I entered the Jesuits out of high school and was with them for 17 years. An honor to serve with the Jesuits and the experience still marks my character. I spent 10 years in Central America during the 1980’s, in Honduras and El Salvador. A very privileged, if not difficult, time to be there. I worked at a trade school for underprivileged youth in Honduras, lived for six months with a peasant family working the fields, studied theology in San Salvador, was ordained and worked briefly as a parish priest there. I left the priesthood and the Jesuits in 1993, pursued a law degree, and worked primarily in the area of civil rights in Washington D.C., San Antonio, and Austin. I reconnected with Central America through an activist research organization with former professors at UT Austin, focused on land rights of Black and Indigenous communities in Central America. In 2015 my wife Shannon was recruited to be the Director of the UCLA American Indian Studies Center, and as part of her recruitment, in 2016 I joined the faculty at UCLA School of Law as a clinical professor. I began teaching a clinic on International Human Rights and then became Director of the Human Rights in the Americas Project with the Promise Institute for Human Rights at the law school.
Joe Berra What have you been up to for the past 50 years? (cont.) I take students to Honduras each year and work year round with students on human rights projects we develop with partners in Honduras and Los Angeles. I became distanced from the Catholic Church but remain rooted in Jesuit spirituality. We have a place in Terlingua, Texas near Big Bend National Park. We love the area: remote high desert and dark sky. We also have a place in Sulphur, Oklahoma on the Chickasaw reservation. We hope to retire there and spend time between Oklahoma, Terlingua, and L.A. where our children are. We enjoy spending time with family, engaging with our professional colleagues, walking with our dogs, and hiking, especially in state and national parks.
Tom Blood Tell us about your family today. My wife, Chris, and I have been married for 33 years. We have three children. Tom and Michael are married. Catherine gets married in July. We have our first granddaughter on the way in July. Our boys went to SLUH, and Catherine went to Nerinx. We're proud of all three of them as they have pursued different careers and found spouses that are a great complement to them. Chris and I are both retired and I'm proud of her for putting up with me for all these years!
Where did you go for education after SLUH? I was offered art scholarships to two different colleges but didn't think I could make a career out of art. So, I went to the University of Missouri-Columbia where I majored in journalism with an advertising emphasis, where I hoped I could become a writer for an ad agency. Upon graduating from Mizzou, I was the only one from my class that got a job as an advertising copywriter in an ad agency.
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? I have always loved to create - even going back to my grade school days. Working in advertising was like being in a grown-up playground. I wrote TV and radio commercials, created outdoor boards, magazine and newspaper ads for a lot of great clients. I won more than 100 ADDY awards for my work along with International Film Festival awards. I went from copywriter to being a Creative Director at two different agencies and eventually, opened my own shop that I had for several years. In 1989, I decided I'd take up painting - and began doing a combination of airbrush and acrylic art - and really liked what I was doing and decided I'd get into an art gallery. At my first gallery show, I sold four paintings which motivated me to do more. I had three more gallery shows, my last one in 1996 - then went on a 17-year hiatus when we turned my painting space into a downstairs bedroom - so I focused on being a husband, dad, coach and Creative Director. In 2013, our oldest son gave me two small canvases and challenged me to paint again. So I did, and I've been painting ever since, creating surreal art in the style of Magritte along with a lot of pop art as well.
Tom Blood What have you been up to for the past 50 years? (cont.) My paintings have sold in 14 countries and 23 different states, and I do a lot of shows at different galleries here in St. Louis. I'm also president of a not-forprofit organization called Caritas Connections that helps the poor and underserved throughout the metro St. Louis area. That's been very rewarding. I play a lot of golf (average at best) and feel blessed with good health and a strong belief in giving back where I can, using my God-given talents to do so.
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory? Father Doyle had the most influence on me, and I really think he taught me a lot about art in a variety of ways. There are so many SLUH memories - but I'll go with standing on a ramp in a tux with my date for our Junior Ring Dance that led into a giant painting I did from the YesSongs album. Tom Missel did a mural on the other side, Mark Cody painted a circular rendition of the Beatles, and we had all these dipped-in-flourescent paint styrofoam balls that made that whole evening one to remember!
Charles Bruce Tell us about your family today. Been with my wonderful wife Nancy for 42 years Two outstanding children Laura and A Garrett Both married with beautiful daughters
Where did you go for education after SLUH? Rockhurst College
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? Living in Chesterfield MO Enjoying time with family and friends Volunteering time at select organizations
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory? Many of the instructors at the U High had a influence on my life and education John Craig SJ was very helpful
George Brueggeman Tell us about your family today. Married for almost 30 years. Divorced now. Three grown children all living in California. One married, and the other two are getting close. No grandchildren yet.
Where did you go for education after SLUH? BSBA from UMSL, graduated in 1980 MBA from Washington University, graduated in 1982
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? My career was in Marketing Management for Nestle (20+ years), Meguiars (3 years) and Haynes (12 years). The most fun I had was working on candy products such as Butterfinger, Baby Ruth and SweeTARTS with Nestle. My family moved to Los Angeles to work at Nestle Corporate in 1997. Grandma loved that move taking away her grandkids (sigh)!). Loved the weather (not the taxes or the politics) and stayed ever since. Recently, I joined a Jesuit sponsored community service group called Ignatians West. It abides by Ignatian Spirituality. I was placed at a local large hospital in a poor section on the outskirts of LA as a Eucharistic Minister. We help the patients through support (a hand held, prayer, or just being there) and providing Holy Communion to those who can't attend mass. I love it! I even met a fellow SLUH graduate as a member of Ignatians West. Small world, eh? LMU is right next door so seeing the familiar Jesuits at our monthly meetings and to bless our work each year brings me full circle back to our SLUH Senior Service. At that time, I volunteered at Barnes Hospital. So, you can see the circular path. We will always endeavor to be "Men in Service of Others."
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory? Fr. Hagan, who I accidentally pulled the trigger on (with an empty gun, calm down) when he was standing in front of the group teaching our initial rifle rules training (the do's and don'ts). I got jugged for that one!
Mark Buehler Tell us about your family today. Married to Suzy for 34 years... 3 children: Paul (SLUH class of 2012) is a CPA and Accounting Manager at Enterprise Mobility in St. Louis. Danny (SLUH class of 2013) is a principal with Apollo Global Management in NYC. Lily (Ursuline class of 2016) is an assistant manager at the Kirkwood (MO) Performing Arts Center.
Where did you go for education after SLUH? UMSL 2 years: played soccer. Rollins College 2 years: played soccer (along with Moceri and Larsen.) Webster University: Masters degree in business and communications.
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? Lots of travel, lots of soccer. 11 years with Anheuser-Busch, Inc. 13+ years with Enterprise Mobility. 23 years as a consultant / writer for executives of various companies / industries.
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory? Favorite teachers: Fr. Kellett, Ebbie Dunn. Too many good memories to name just one; some of the best were with SLUH soccer teammates.
Tom Clear Tell us about your family today. My wife, Carol Sylvia Blaydon, and I married 8 years ago in Las Vegas. She is a very patient person.
Where did you go for education after SLUH? Washington University, largely because I could live at home and walk to class. Probably couldn’t get in today. Vanderbilt Law School.
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? Basically played the piano and have done music since I was 5. Played for Cyndi Lauper (Kinky Boots), Second City Chicago (10 years). Couple universities and ballet companies. Practiced law for 8 years—not a good fit, as they say in HR.
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory? Mr. Schulte—I liked to make him laugh. Last night of some show, I got to announce a snow day from the stage. Standing ovation!
Ken Daues Tell us about your family today. I was married to Elise for 28 years. She was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer in 2007, and passed in 2010. I remarried in 2011. Debbie had 3 very young children in 2011, her previous husband had passed from cancer in 2009. Two are in college now, and the youngest will be a senior in high school this fall. From my first marriage to Elise, I had two children. I have two grandchildren.
Where did you go for education after SLUH? Southeast Missouri State University
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? I have lived in St. Louis for the past 50 years. I enjoy working out at a gym several times a week. I used to be an avid runner, then eventually transitioned to bike riding. I serve at my church as an Elder. I plan to work another year or two full time. Enjoy watching college football, March Madness, and the World Cup.
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory? Hard to narrow down to one favorite teacher. I don't really have one favorite memory. I enjoyed all four years. My classmates were outstanding individuals. I always appreciated the culture of the school and the respect we had for each other regardless of our personal interest (sport, theater, etc).
Phillip Davis Tell us about your family today. I am happily married to my wife, Kristina Pappas. We don't have kids, but MANY nieces and nephews!
Where did you go for education after SLUH? Northwestern University, Medill School of Journalism, Class of 1980 Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies, Class of 1989. Stanford University, Knight Journalism Fellow, 2004
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? For the past 50 years (!) I have worked as a journalist, writer and editor, and as an occasional semi-retired "van lifer." As a journalist, I spent over a decade at NPR, National Public Radio, where I covered Capitol Hill as a Congressional corespondent and Environmental Policy reporter, and also foreign affairs as Mexico City Bureau chief for several years in the late 90s. Like many, I was then drawn to the tech boom in California's Silicon Valley, where I joined semiconductor giant Intel Corp. as a technology analyst and communicator. Later, in 2016, I accepted a position as a Research Principal at Accenture Advanced Technology Labs, working on issues such as artificial intelligence and blockchain/cryptocurrency. After trying to retire -- bumping around the national parks of the West in our trusty Volkswagen camper van--I joined the museum world, where I am currently a senior editor and exhibit content developer at the Exploratorium in San Francisco--one of the national's largest and oldest science museums. Outside of work, my wife and I travel extensively, and hobbies include guitar, photography and cooking.
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory? My favorite SLUH memories were of participating in various after school clubs, including Mr. Stevison's Photography Club, the Astronomy club run by Father Valiquette, and of course, Band.
Jim Desmond Tell us about your family today. Joyce and I are married 38 years and have two grown children with families of their own. Our son, Sean, is the oldest and is married to Noah Desmond. They have a one year old son, James, and Noah is currently pregnant with the second. Lauren is married to Ian Lynch, and they have a four-year-old son Teddy. Love our kids and their spouses bunches, and our grandkids even more.
Where did you go for education after SLUH? I received a BS in Bus. Admin. from SLU in 1981, earned the Chartered Financial Analyst designation in 1988, and an MBA from the University of Colorado in 1991.
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? I began my career in investment management in Denver, CO after graduating SLU. Joyce and I met at work and married in 1988. I held positions with three firms in Colorado. In 2000, I took a position in Naples with SunTrust and was transferred to Tampa in 2003. In 2010, I took a position with FifthThird Private Bank. Best place I worked in my 40+ years in the investment management field. I ran four marathons over the course of my running days, which ended in 2006. My personal best time was my first one, with a time of 3 hrs, 40 minutes. Exactly four weeks after I ran my third marathon (in St. Louis), I was out on an early morning run and was hit by a hit-and-run driver. I woke up from a coma a week later, and spent another two weeks where I went through reconstructive surgery of my tibia bone just below the knee. After a fourth marathon in 2002, running tapered off to an occasional 5-k by the time I gave it up. In the fall of 2003 after moving to Tampa, I joined a group of guys from the YMCA who hiked the Appalachian Trail. We did annual sections and the most fun was hiking Mt. Katahdin, ME. I have been involved in parish life at all those we have attended over the years. I have also served on over twenty Kairos Prison Ministry four-day weekends. A tad over two years prior to retirement, God began to tell me he wanted more out of me than just the leisurely life in retirement. Long story short after two years discernment and initial formation, I became a Salesian Cooperator in May 2022.
Jim Desmond What have you been up to for the past 50 years? (cont.) I currently serve as Treasurer of the Eastern US Provincial Council, and on my local Mary Help of Christians Center Council. I teach Religious Ed to the 1st Communion Class, and also serve as a Lay Eucharistic Minister. I volunteer at Cristo Rey Salesian Tampa High School. I have become a Salesian at heart, but will always love what SLUH, the school and my classmates, mean to me. Can’t attend the reunion, but I will say a prayer for ya’ll and will miss youl
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory? My favorite teach was Mr. Busenhart. I had no background in Chemistry, and he instilled in me a love for the science. He knew the subject and taught it extremely well. He was very fair, and spent any amount of time needed with students to help them along. He was also a great Water Polo coach. (BTW) Water Polo is not even played in high school in Florida!
Chris Fava Tell us about your family today. My wife, Mary, and I were married in 1984 and have 2 children, Christopher (Jr.) & Carolyn. Our children are both married. Christopher and Gussie have 2 children – Lucy (10) and Chritopher III (6) Carolyn and Jordan have a son, Bennett (2) I am proud of my wife and all of her successes. I am also proud of our children, who are very successful in their careers and as parents.
Where did you go for education after SLUH? Saint Louis University. Bachelor of Science Business Administration – Major Accounting Graduated in December 1979 thanks to 1818 credits
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? After public accounting, I spent most of my career as a controller and CFO for construction and real estate development companies. In 2012 I started Fava Financial Solutions, LLC as a fractional CFO and business consulting for small and mid-sized companies. I had approximately 40 clients and still work with a few today. I was a Cub Master for our son’s pack, and a Boy Scout Leader. We went backpacking for 2 weeks at Philmont Scout Ranch. I was a Girl Scout leader for 2 years, too. I helped coach our kids’ CYC sports teams and was treasurer of our Men’s club at Our Lady of Pillar. I am a past President of the SLUH alumni association and started the alumni golf tournament now known as the Fr. Hagan Alumni Cup Golf Tournament. My wife and I are still very involved at Our Lady of Pillar in various capacities and in our subdivision over the years. We went to Grand Haven, MI most summers for a week or two when our children were growing up and after they had children. We are planning to travel more now that Mary is retired, and I am almost fully retired.
Chris Fava Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory? Mr. Joe Schulte – Calculus and Dauphin Players Mr. Ray Stevison – Accounting (He started me on my path to be a CPA) Dr. Noonan – Senior English Mr. Dunn – Junior Algebra Fr. Kellett – Freshman Latin The Plays: Fiddler on the Roof, I was a bottle dancer 1776, I played Roger Sherman Senior Follies Playing Football, wrestling, & track Freshman & Sophomore years Cheerleading Junior & Senior year Spring Carnival all 4 years. Mixers, Ring Dance, Senior Prom Sr. Project - Judevine Center
Dan Fitzgerald Tell us about your family today. Married to Stephanie. Three daughters: Shannon, Kelli, and Bridget.
Where did you go for education after SLUH? UMSL - BS,1980 Lindenwood - MA, 2002
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? Brentwood Police, 1983-2017, retired as Chief. Archdiocese of St Louis - CYC Sports, 2017-2025, retired as Director. Ordained to the Permanent Diaconate, 2020, serving at St. Mary Magdalen. Enjoy traveling, especially National Parks. Active volunteer with the St. Louis Genealogy Society and the Brentwood Historical Society. High school/college basketball official 1976-2014. Worked four MSHSAA State finals. Faithful supporter of all things Cardinals and Blues.
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory? Mr. Calacci. I liked his low-key approach. Favorite memories are football/basketball games. Big crowd, cheer till you were hoarse, premium school spirit.
Herb Gebhart Tell us about your family today. I married the wonderful Bonnie Mokray in 2003 and immediately became stepfather to her children, Natalie and Stephen. In the last year, both Natalie and Stephen have gotten married. Natalie and her husband Aaron had their first child, a boy, August, and so we are grandparents for the first time!! Nat and Aaron live near us, and so we see our new grandson a few times a week!! I am very proud of all my family, and I'm very blessed that they are all good people with kind hearts!
Where did you go for education after SLUH? After SLUH, I went to Saint Louis University for 2 years, majoring in Physics and Russian. After that, I transferred to Kansas U (Go Jayhawks!) and stayed there 4 years, earning both BS and MS degrees in Electrical Engineering.
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? I had the great fortune to be hired as a summer intern by Hewlett Packard Company in Corvallis, Oregon, in the summer of 1981. Upon graduation in 1982, I returned to HP in Corvallis and worked there for 10 years doing micro-chip design! After that, I transferred within HP to Fort Collins, Colorado. After another 10 years, I left, eventually moved to Silicon Valley (near San Jose, CA) and worked for several small semiconductor companies doing a mix of technical and business work. A great benefit of our time in Silicon Valley was that our son, Stephen, was able to attend Bellarmine College Prep in San Jose (the SLUH of the Bay area!!), graduating in 2014. He had a great time there learning to be a 'Man for Others'! Looking back, I was very lucky to have chosen an industry that had such explosive growth and opportunities! During my career, I worked on microchips for many important products, including calculators, laser printers, data center servers, cell phones, etc. It was challenging work but great fun.
Herb Gebhart What have you been up to for the past 50 years? (cont.) In 2018, I began preparing for a 2nd career in Personal Wealth Management, eventually passing the 6-hour exam to become a Certified Financial Planner, CFP(R). After a 2-yr apprenticeship, I worked at a small firm in my current hometown of Gig Harbor, WA (moved here in 2021 to be near our daughter, Natalie) for a few years, before retiring at the end of 2025. Wealth Management was very rewarding, as I helped many clients to understand their sources of wealth, how to save, plan for the future, meet unexpected expenses, help with estate planning, etc. In retirement, I continue to be involved in financial planning, doing volunteer work for a few organizations, doing volunteer tax prep via AARP and volunteering at our parish clothes closet and lunch ministry. For fun and exercise, I run, ride the Peloton (screen name is JHawkJoe), play golf, and work on maintaining the landscaping of our 3-acre home that overlooks Puget Sound!
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory? I'm not sure I have a favorite. Several teachers were very impactful for me. Fr. Ralph Vonderhaar, my math teacher for Algebra and Geometry; Fr. Valiquette, for Freshman science and Senior AP Physics, Mr. Raterman, for Junior year English. All of these teachers were passionate about teaching and patiently helped me become a better student.
John Grigaitis Tell us about your family today. Married Marla Swayne in 1981. We have four children--John and Julie born during the snow of '82, Kyle in '85 and Kelly in '86. They have blessed us with 9 grandchildren. Of course we our proud of all of them for being good human beings with big hearts.
Where did you go for education after SLUH? Attended the University of Dayton for two years before transferring to Mizzou. Quit school for a while and drove a tractor trailer for United Van Lines. Eventually graduated from Webster University with a BA in History and Political Science and a Master of Arts in Teaching Social Studies.
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? Taught 5th and 6th grade at Mary Queen of Peace for 11 years. Taught American History, World History and Geography at DeSmet Jesuit High School for 19 years. Taught 1 year at Bishop DuBourg.
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory? Favorite teacher was Dr. Noonan. He had a great sense of humor and was simply a good man. Favorite memory was playing football against CBC at Busch Stadium.
Matt Grzesiowski Tell us about your family today. My wife, Sheri, and I have 3 children: Stephen, Kevin, and Amanda. All of us still live in St. Louis. Stephen is married with 3 kids (1 boy and 2 girls), Kevin is married with 3 kids (2 girls and 1 boy), and Amanda is single. I love watching our kids parenting their kids; seeing if they parent similarly to Sheri and me, or where they differ. We love attending our grandkids’ sporting events, recitals, school activities, etc. In our free time, Sheri and I travel and I love playing golf.
Where did you go for education after SLUH? My freshman year in college I attended Southeast MO State in Cape Girardeau, rooming with fellow SLUH classmate Steve Sweetin. I then transferred back to St. Louis my sophomore year and graduated from UMSL, where I attended classes with SLUH classmates George Brueggeman, Bart Collida, and John Scariot.
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? I have lived in St. Louis since high school, except for 3 years in Chicago in the mid 1980s. I graduated from UMSL with an Accounting degree and had a typical career in finance. I started out in public accounting, switched to internal audit, and then had various financial roles within the industry. I settled into mainly financial analysis/planning/budgeting positions for the bulk of my career. I retired in 2022 from RGA and have volunteered at the Missouri Botanical Garden since 2023. I joined a senior golf league in 2023 and now live a second childhood through my grandchildren's activities.
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory? I had a lot of great teachers at SLUH, but Ebbie Dunn had to be the most fun teacher. He taught algebra/trigonometry, but he had to make it interesting since the subject matter wasn't interesting. He knew how to relate to us and made the class time enjoyable. Outside of class, I enjoyed wallball games in the rec room, playing on the water polo team, Roundabout on the jukebox during lunch, and food fights in the cafeteria.
David Haake Tell us about your family today. My greatest joys in life are my 44 year marriage and the success and happiness of my three sons. My wife is the daughter of an oil industry executive and she'd lived in 19 cities before we met and married in grad school - and we've moved 11 more times together! My oldest son Garrett, is Chief White House Correspondent with NBC and he and his wife gave us our 1st two granddaughters. 2nd son Rusty is an AI SCM guru. 3rd son Jack is a VP at JP Morgan in NYC & they just had our 1st grandson.
Where did you go for education after SLUH? I left SLUH after my Junior year to attend University of Missouri at Rolla. I, in fact, never graduated from High School, but was accepted into UMR with a High School GED. I went on to get my MBA at University of Denver in night classes during my early days of work life.
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? Over a 45-year career, I became an accomplished global business development executive, technology leader, and trusted strategic advisor at the intersection of industrial automation, enterprise software, digital transformation, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. My leadership philosophy is rooted in collaboration, integrity, and the belief that long-term success is achieved by enabling others to succeed. My personal motto, “Nothing is impossible if you don’t care who gets the credit,” is something I feel I learned at SLUH. My career has taken me literally all over the world; I've visited clients in 80+ countries, have flown over 6 million air miles, and my family and I and have had five years long expat assignments - in Germany, Australia, Singapore, China, and Dubai over the years. I currently serve as Chief Revenue Officer and Advisory Board Member for Cogniprise LLC, working on retainer alongside the company’s founder to help transform an innovative artificial intelligence startup into a scalable, investment-ready enterprise. I am also looking for another Board Advisory role, as I am finding this type of work very satisfying and enjoyable after 45 years of full-time employment in the trenches.
David Haake What have you been up to for the past 50 years? (cont.) I formally retired two years ago, and my wife and I just bought a 400 year old home in a 1000 year old village in France as a vacation home/AirBnB, and we look forward to spending a lot of time traveling and cycling in Europe. At home, in Austin, we are avid tennis players, and enjoy the "lake life" on Lake Travis. Of course, we are proud of our sons, but it’s more than that. They have each become self made successes in life and are young men of character, conviction, and commitment.
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory? My most important SLUH teacher relationship was with Dick Keefe, first when he was my French teacher, and especially later when he was Assistant Principal for discipline! He played an absolutely vital and transformational role in my life, helping me escape a bad home situation by heading off to college after my Junior year. He was simply the finest, kindest, most selfless and truly Christian man I have ever known.
Bill Halaz Tell us about your family today. I have four children: Elizabeth, William III, Andrew, and Emily. Two are lawyers (they are good at arguing with me), a volleyball director of high performance volleyball club, and a nurse. I have 11 grandchildren that range in years from 3 to 14. We enjoy spending time with our grandkids at the house, sporting events, and family vacations. If I had to choose the best moments of my life, witnessing my children's births would rank at the top. God has been very good to our family.
Where did you go for education after SLUH? I started at Cardinal Glennon seminary, but after one semester, I transferred to University of Missouri - St Louis (UMSL). I obtained a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration.
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? I worked for Union Pacific Railroad in data processing after graduating college. After declining an invitation to move from St Louis, I worked for Edward Jones in data processing until retiring in 2023. I started refereeing high school basketball and softball / baseball during college. After 'getting old,' I continued to ref CYC (Catholic Youth Council) basketball, baseball, softball, soccer and volleyball. (I umpired Joe Vonderhaar's adult baseball games and the Paino's softball games.) I ran the South County CYC Volleyball program for 10 years. This involved coordinating parish representatives, scheduling games, approving rosters, conducting official's clinics, and running playoffs. I have officiated several City-County finals in many sports. I have received several awards from CYC. I have coached all of my children and several grandchildren in CYC sports. Sometimes we win, and sometimes we lose. Life lessons are learned.
Bill Halaz What have you been up to for the past 50 years? (cont.) I've been married to Joan for almost 45 years (one of my better choices in life). Glenn Hennemann and Dan Fitzgerald were both in our wedding party. Joan and I have taken several cruises. Recently, we cruised with Glenn and his wife, Judy, to New Zealand and Australia. I almost was run over by a train, and Glenn was attacked by a kangaroo. A memorable trip!!! We have lived in south city and south county (current). We are members of St Francis of Assisi church (Oakville). I have been involved with the Knights of Columbus, and currently serve as the "Grand Knight" of our council.
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory? SLUH provided me with many friends and memories. Father Hagan knew my name the first day. When Father Kellett spoke at the pep rally, you could hear a pin drop. I was in the first Environmental Science class that Charles Conway and Charlie Busenhart taught. I was lucky enough to get a C in Father Conroy's geometry class. To this date, I have no idea what Geometry is. From Spanish I remember "Donde Esta de Bano" which is translated "Where is the Bathroom." Very useful SLUH memory
Gail Hartmann Tell us about your family today. I was very fortunate to marry Renee Royer in the fall of 1983. Renee and I are blessed to have been able to raise two wonderful and loving sons. Over the years, our family has grown and now includes two daughters-in-law and five beautiful grandchildren currently ranging in ages from 1 to 12.
Where did you go for education after SLUH? I graduated from Saint Louis University School of Business and Administration in 1980 with a Bachelor of Arts degree and soon thereafter obtained my license as a Certified Public Accountant.
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? Of utmost importance over the past 50 years has been our family, nurturing, supporting and watching it grow to what it is today. Along with all the responsibilities of being a Christian husband and father comes a lot of family activities, sports, school programs, weddings and of course four granddaughters and a grandson. In my professional career, I was a CPA with Coopers & Lybrand and then subsequently became the Treasurer of Delmar Gardens Enterprises, Inc. for over 25 years. Renee and I have been very active members of Christ Memorial Lutheran Church where I have had many roles including being an elder, congregational treasurer and on various committees. I do like to play golf and am still hoping for that ever elusive “hole in one.”
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory? I have fond memories of many teachers at SLUH including, and in no particular order, Ray Stevison, Dominic Calacci, Chuck Conway, Ebbie Dunn, Joe Vitale and Father Kellett. I remember a pep rally freshman year prior to the football game against that perennial SLUH rival the CBC Cadets. The auditorium was raucous. When Father Kellett came up to the podium to speak, one could have heard a pin drop. I will never forget the respect given to such an esteemed person.
Joe Herbers Tell us about your family today. Wife Faith, one son Ted and one grandson Vincent
Where did you go for education after SLUH? Mizzou - BA in Mathematics, Class of 1980
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? Began career at State Farm as an Actuarial Analyst, moved into consulting world 5 years later and been in that world past 41 years. Founded my own firm in 1994 and have been an independent consulting actuary ever since. Plan to retire at YE 2026
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory? Favorite teacher was Tom Becvar - junior algebra teacher. Favorite memory was opportunity to meet the great Fr. Kellett my freshman year.
Dave Howell Tell us about your family today. I have been happily married to my first and only wife, Betty, for 30 years. Our union was never blessed with issue.
Where did you go for education after SLUH? 77-79: I studied Greek and Latin at SLU (summa cum laude, Phi Beta Kappa), was a member of the University News staff serving variously as a consumer advocate, theater critic, and cartoonist. 81-83: I studied Egyptology at the Oriental Institute (now ISAK) at the University of Chicago. One afternoon in the lobby of the OI, I shook Katherine Hepburn's hand.
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? Key-punching weather data @ SLU with Ted Siegel and female members of The Holy Order of MANS cult, feeling the energy fields around trees with them-traveling with Tom Clear to Paris/London-delivering the Globe Democrat in North STL-often stopped by cops-oft dabbling in altered states in a sensory deprivation tank-camping solo in the Painted Desert-searching for ineffable truths-finding a nest of scorpions under my tent-maintenance work on Wall Street-hoisting the Standard and Poor’s flag,operating a lever-control elevator,sweeping cigarette butts off the sidewalk,scrubbing graffiti,cleaning offices and restrooms at Dag Hammarskjold Plaza-telemarketing Mrs. Pickles children's books to reluctant grandparentsdelivering TheNYT on Staten Island-itinerant file clerking for a thinktank,a jeweler,a special events planner-washing dishes at a French bakery-giving unsold items to friends-cheffing at Provisions on Cherokee-learning culinary techniques-delivering TheWSJ-becoming an assistant lead-winning a meritorious carrier award-hospice caregiver for my mother-webmastering for local arts organizations-maintaining mummies.com-spending time alone with the mummy of TiAmenyNet:examining, transcribing,translating her coffin-delivering a lecture @ UR-spotting her purloined image on a Fox webpage-alerting Stuart Wheeler head of UR classics who settled and used the cash to redo his kitchen-spending a Winter in New York-attending a New Year's Eve party at Lee Grant’s Upper West Side apartment-singing the old songs with Kitty Carlisle and Eli Wallach-sharing a hug with Dennis Christopher at midnight-cheffing at PuraVegan-teaching vegan nutrition classes-reading Moby Dick @ Melville’s grave-winning the 2024 activeworlds.com Landing Zone design contest.
Dave Howell What have you been up to for the past 50 years? (cont.) On my 20th birthday I drank MD 20/20,and danced to an LP of Dion and The Belmonts. On my 40th birthday, I climbed to the top of the Eiffel Tower. On my 45th, walking Broadway from The Battery to the Bronx. On my 60th, biking the Katy Trail.
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory? Mr Kramer who taught us the importance of journaling. Hanging out in the Rec Room cage after classes with Al Stanger, chatting, and reading underground comics while he collected nickels for errant cue balls.
BJ Irwin Tell us about your family today. My wife Patrice and I celebrated our 40th anniversary this year. We have two kids, Charlotte and Nate. They both live not too far away so it’s great to be able to see them often. No grandkids but, inexplicably, we have taken on the role of dog sitters for both of them.
Where did you go for education after SLUH? I wandered aimlessly at SLU for a year and a half before transferring to the School of Architecture at Washington University. It was there I found my passion. Upon graduation, I went to the Graduate School of Design at Harvard, receiving my Masters Degree.
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? Other than a short stint teaching at Washington University, I never really found my way back to the Midwest after graduating from Harvard. I have been very fortunate to spend my career doing what I love. I was a partner in an architecture firm and specialized in university buildings, particularly libraries. While based in Boston, my work took me all around the world, allowing my family and me to be very well traveled. It also allowed me to get back to Missouri, designing the libraries at Missouri State and UMKC. Patrice has had an equally rewarding career, most recently as the Director of Freedom’s Way National Heritage Park. We are both easing into retirement, having moved full time to Kittery Point, Maine—a beautiful part of the world. We spend our time walking the beach and trying to keep the deer out of our gardens.
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory? Our senior year, Mr. Conway and Mr. Busenhart joined forces to teach an Environmental Studies class. Although there was a fair amount of goofing around on the field trips, it sparked in me a glimmer of interest in sustainability—something that I pursued as a part of my work throughout my career.
Chris LaBarge Tell us about your family today. My wife Dana and I share a blended family of eight kids. I'm not sure where I went wrong, but five of them are practicing attorneys, one is a CPA for KPMG, one is in sales, and one — my daughter Jennifer LaBarge — I work for. Not an engineer in the bunch. We have four grandchildren (two 2-year-olds and two 4-year-olds), with one more on the way. I often say kids are overrated, but I have to admit, grandchildren are awesome.
Where did you go for education after SLUH? I found myself in a bit of a time warp — a parent before the end of our senior year; I went to work after graduation. I attended University College at Wash U (Wash U night school) for two years, but found myself a single parent with sole custody of two daughters, 3 and 4. I ended up hiring engineers instead of becoming one. I think of myself as an empirical engineer — one who keeps doing it until he gets it right. I left SLUH with the foundation to be a lifelong learner and endeavor to do so.
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? I have worked in the Fluid Conveyance industry my entire life and after 50+ years considered a subject matter expert. Have loved being an offensive line coach on several levels including high school and women's full contact football. Coached for Chaminade and CBC, earning two State Championship rings with the Cadets. A long time member of Saint Ambrose, where my two older daughters went to grade school.
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory? Fr. Pieper was my favorite teacher — his knowledge of history was truly amazing. Mike Noelker and I joined his trip to Europe after our freshman year and spent 55 days driving around Europe in 2 VW Combi vans, 9 SLUH students in each, Fr. Pieper driving one and Fr. Kane driving the other. We stayed in youth hostels most of the time, two nights at the Jesuit Curia in Rome, home to the Superior General, Pedro Arrupe. Many great stories to this day.
Patrick J. Leahy Tell us about your family today. I was the youngest of four children in our family: Tom, Mary, Marge, Pat. We sadly lost our oldest brother Tom (Augustinian Academy) in 1979 at the age of 27. He was an Attorney and Captain in the Army JAG at Fort Benning, Georgia. After that, though, my sister Mary had 5 children and 10 grandchildren which helped to ease the pain of such a loss and provided joy and much lasting fulfillment for all of us. We lost our Dad in 2006 and our Mom in 2009. Our parents had good lives and gave their children and grandchildren good lives.
Where did you go for education after SLUH? Like many classmates, I was happy and fortunate to attend SLUH and college after that. I attended Washington University in St. Louis. I received a Bachelor of Science Degree in 1980 and a Master of Science Degree in Structural Engineering in 1981. At that time, Washington University was 25% in town or local metropolitan area students. With scholarship, grant and an NDSL loan, and living at home, college was on a par with SLUH for tuition for several years! Times have changed.
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? After graduating from college, I took a job in California and lived there for 12 years in Irvine and Long Beach. It was a great adventure, and I experienced so much. Traveling, camping, hiking, sporting events, entertainment, golf, beaches, swimming, skiing, Hollywood, theaters, national parks, horse racing. Traveling throughout California, Oregon, Washington, Arizona, Nevada. It was an enlightening experience and good to live in another place to gain perspective and see the world. My job brought me back to St. Louis in 1993. And working and living in St. Louis kept me occupied. So there has been a return to enjoying and rediscovering many things both old and new in the St. Louis, Missouri, and Midwest areas as well as some travels to both coasts. For many of us, our Catholic grade school and high school education (and college, too, for some) and faith were fundamental, formative and lasting. We were taught to think but also to have faith and to believe. Many of our grade schools and churches have closed due to many factors. But SLUH survives - and thrives. And so still do many of our classmates 50 years later. As a good colleague and friend of John Menius told me some year ago: "Every Day is a Blessing."
Patrick J. Leahy Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory? There were far too many good teachers during Freshman, Sophomore, Junior and Senior years to have a favorite. There are too many good teachers to name. But those who taught me were: Lay Faculty: Amelotti, Pasqualucci, Stevison, Becvar, Hanick, Calacci, Morris, Raterman, Busenhart, Murphy, Noonan, Schulte Jesuit Faculty: Hagan, Sims, Przybylski, Vonder Haar, Bailey, Oakes, Wayne, Pieper, Quigley, Snyder, Doyle, Valiquette In retrospect, the watershed memory was our class graduating at Powell Hall in our white coats and black pants. How far all of us had come. Well Done. It was a great launch.
Mark Levine Tell us about your family today. Ellen and I have two children, Sam and Jennie, and two grandchildren, Leo and Eliza. Sam, his wife Layla, and their two children live in Chesterfield—literally a stone’s throw from where we raised our family from 1990 to 2016. Jennie and her husband, Carl, are newlyweds living in beautiful Gig Harbor, Washington. No grandkids there yet, but fingers crossed! We’re incredibly proud… all of them productive members of society, which I consider a pretty significant parental achievement!
Where did you go for education after SLUH? Saint Louis University
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? I never strayed far from home—I’ve lived in the St. Louis area my entire life. After college, I began my sales career here at Tension Envelope Company. I moved to Ambassador Envelope in 1985 and then, in 2001, joined Fisher Group, a printing and direct-mail company. Ellen and I met in 1984, married in 1986, and will celebrate our 40th anniversary in a few weeks. We welcomed Sam in 1989 and Jennie in 1991. After becoming empty nesters, Ellen and I bought and renovated an old warehouse in Lafayette Square and turned it into our home. After ten years with Fisher Group, I started The Vine Print Group… my own printing and direct-mail company, working primarily with nonprofit organizations. I officially “retired” from the industry in 2014, although I continued helping a few longtime clients whenever they needed me. Apparently, I wasn’t very good at retirement. In 2014, I bought a Budget Blinds franchise, followed by a second in 2016 and a third in 2018. After selling all three, I finally retired for good in 2023. These days, we split our time between our Lafayette Square home and our house at the Lake of the Ozarks. We love spending time with our kids and grandkids, traveling, and generally enjoying the fact that our calendars are no longer controlled by bosses! My passions include golf, fishing, St. Louis sports, traveling, fine wine and whiskey, and cooking. Ellen and I even competed on the BBQ circuit for several years— although I’m still not sure whether that qualifies as a hobby or a very expensive way to feed our friends.
Steve Lewis Tell us about your family today. God has blessed me with an incredible family! I have been happily married to Lisa since 1987 and have two wonderful children—Robin (44) and Jason (37). I am beyond proud of both of them. We have one grandson—JJ (3), and he is the light of my life. I get to spend time with him three days a week, and he is my best buddy. All four of my siblings are still alive, and I am beyond thankful for that blessing. God is so good!
Where did you go for education after SLUH? I attended Rockhurst College (now University) and graduated in 1980. I chose Rockhurst because of my strong belief in the Jesuit education system that was instilled in me at SLUH. Rockhurst turned out to be a wise decision.
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? My life over the last fifty years has been filled with love and laughter. I have lived in Kansas City since 1976. I married the most wonderful woman. She has been supportive and loving beyond my wildest expectations. Plus, she gave me two children----who have grown up to be extremely fine adults. I have enjoyed many pets over the years. I was very involved in fundraising, coaching, and athletic administration while our children attended Catholic grade school and high school. I served on the Parochial League Board for 15 years after our kids completed school. I was employed as a Customer Service Rep and then Supervisor for 39 years at AFCO Credit Corporation. I love the KC Royals, Chiefs and horse racing. The last three years have been absolutely amazing thanks to our grandson JJ. He keeps me young at heart.
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory? My favorite teacher at SLUH was Fr. Bailey. He was down to earth, extremely intelligent and really cared. I smile when I think of him. He was an amazing man.
Mark Lynch Tell us about your family today. Ann and I have been married for over 44 years now. Amazing how quickly those 44 years have passed! We are blessed with two sons. Our older son went to SLUH and Notre Dame, and our younger son went to DeSmet and Saint Louis University. We are incredibly proud of both sons - one works for Deloitte in Chicago, and the other works for his alma mater, Saint Louis University. We have been especially blessed with three grandchildren. Playing grandparents is our greatest joy these days!
Where did you go for education after SLUH? I went to the University of Notre Dame for my undergraduate degree in accounting, and then followed up at Indiana University for my master’s degree in finance.
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? Upon graduating from Notre Dame in 1980, I began in public accounting - working both audit and tax. In 1984, I was hired by one of my clients - a regional real estate developer headquartered in Indianapolis. Our firm worked with large multifamily properties, strip malls, office buildings, custom homes, and country clubs. After completing graduate school, Emerson Electric (as it was called then) brought me home to St. Louis in 1988 to work in their real estate group. However, within weeks of arriving, I was asked to join their mergers & acquisitions group. I did this for nearly eight years, including a return to Indianapolis for the last four. Spectrum Healthcare Services, recruited me in 1996, and I returned to St. Louis. I was Controller of the parent company and then Chief Financial Officer of their largest operating division. Following a leveraged buyout of the company, I returned to my real estate roots in 2001. I started with Gundaker Realtors and moved to RE/MAX in 2003 where I have enjoyed an incredibly rewarding career helping individuals and families with their residential real estate needs - including many classmates and their families.
Mark Lynch What have you been up to for the past 50 years? (cont.) We always enjoyed watching our sons in their endeavors - especially watching Matt play basketball at SLUH and Kevin sing in the Black Robes Choir at DeSmet. I have been very active in the local alumni club for the University of Notre Dame, serving in many roles over the years, including two terms as President. I am currently Treasurer and a member of the Board. I've enjoyed playing many recreational sports over the years - softball, basketball, soccer, tennis, and, most recently, pickleball. I am a huge fan of the Cardinals, Blues, and STL City and have either been, or currently am, a season ticket holder of each. And, of course, I am a devoted fan of the Fighting Irish, getting to ND football games as often as I can. I am thankful to still hang with many SLUH classmates on a regular basis, too.
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory? Ray Stevison helped me figure out that accounting was a solid career path. Jim Raterman helped me develop writing skills that continue to serve me well. Father Ralph Vonderhaar, Tom Becvar, and Joe Schulte all helped me develop math/analytical skills that, again, continue to serve me well. I am grateful to all of them. I have no single favorite memory. There are many, from attending summer camps before freshman year to walking across the stage at Powell Symphony Hall and countless in between.
John Menius Tell us about your family today. Married Lisa Langer in '83 and we have been happily married for 43 years. We raised 3 daughters (Jessica-Nerinx '02, Corey-Nerinx '03, and Madeline-Kirkwood HS '12) and 1 son (Daniel SLUH '07), all of whom we are very proud of. We also have 3 grandsons who are truly our joy in life.
Where did you go for education after SLUH? I went to Saint Louis University and got my bachelor's degree in chemistry and biology in 1980. After that, I attended University of Missouri-Columbia School of Medicine and got my MD degree in1984. I then completed a Residency in Anesthesiology at the University of Florida-Gainesville in 1987
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? After completing my education, I practiced Anesthesiology in the St. Louis area for 36 years. During that time, I served on many hospital committees and was active in the Missouri Society of Anesthesiology. I retired in 2023. Besides raising a family and all of the many activities involved with that, I have also enjoyed being an avid outdoorsman and hunter. In 2003, I was able to buy some rural property and work on land conservation practices, and wildlife habitat management. Recently, I have enjoyed getting my grandsons involved in outdoor activities.
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory? I’m not sure I have a favorite teacher, but two teachers definitely impacted my learning and my future. Charlie Busenhart as my science teacher (twice!) and Tom Becvar in math. Each of them gave me the tools I needed to pursue my further education and future career.
Mikey Micotto Tell us about your family today. Been together with my wife Janet for 50 years, 3 daughters, 2 granddaughters
Where did you go for education after SLUH? Purdue University
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? My very good friends, many of whom went to SLUH, are my most cherished achievement.
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory? Dom Calacci, because he could palm a basketball with his foot
Tom Missel What have you been up to for the past 50 years? I took a road less traveled. After two years of college, I hitchhiked across the west to work in the timber industry in the mountains of the Pacific Northwest. Working outdoors appealed to me. After a couple years I headed north to Alaska eventually settling in Seward on the coast. Working in various remote areas of the state including the arctic coast at 60 degrees below zero, the Bering Sea in November storms, and sites where armed guards protected workers from bear attacks. Along this journey I kept my long held interest in art alive. Drawing, painting, engraving. I settled into maritime jobs and mostly enjoying commercial fishing. First Bristol Bay, then various fisheries out of Seward. Eventually running my own boat and fishing operation for the next 30 years in the Gulf of Alaska off the Copper River delta and in Prince William Sound. These spectacular areas are full of inspirational scenes for my paintings. With a seasonal work schedule, it afforded me the rest of the year to devote to painting and other outdoor activities. Loving winter in Alaska, I spent a lot of time backcountry skiing in the Chugach mountains. Dividing my time between the mountains and painting in my log cabin I built. Along the way, I married my ski and activity partner Ed (Edna), an awesome athlete mountain girl from the high country of Colorado. Now retired, I do more of what I've always done, painting and staying active in the outdoors. In recent years, we've started spending a few months in winter at 10,000 feet in Colorado where she grew up for skiing, where the cold is more stable.
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory? Ebbie Dunne was an excellent math teacher, among many other good teachers at SLUH.
Lew Moceri Tell us about your family today. I’ve been married to the love of my life, Aleksandra, for 45 years. We have a son and a daughter who each have 2 wonderful children of their own. Luckily, they all live in the area so we can see our 4 beautiful grandchildren regularly, ages 2-13.
Where did you go for education after SLUH? After SLUH, I attended, graduated and played soccer at Rollins College in Winter Park, FL. I majored in having a good time.
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? After college, I started a painting business based in Orlando, Fl and owned and worked that business for 15 years. In 1996, I made the decision to take advantage of an opportunity to join Boilermakers Local 363 and moved my wife and kids to the St. Louis area. I retired from that union as an Assistant Business Manager in 2017.
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory? It’s hard to pick a favorite teacher. I liked most of them. Fr. Bailey was always at the top of my list, and, of course, Ebbie Dunn. My favorite SLUH memory would have to be our senior year soccer team and season. Unfortunately, we didn’t win the state title, but we were ranked #1 most of that phenomenal season, ending with a record of 25 wins and 2 losses, both losses in sudden death OT.
Rick Nieder Tell us about your family today. Married high school sweetheart, Nancy Rooney, in 1981. (Shout out to Chris Fava who introduced us.) We have a daughter and two sons along with 5, soon to be six, grandkids.
Where did you go for education after SLUH? I spent four years at the University of Missouri-Columbia getting a Journalism degree, then switched careers into logistics going back to Washington University night school for 12 hours of credit and finishing up with an MBA from UMSL in 2003 at the ripe old age of 46.
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? After selling advertising for a small business publication during the summer of 1980 in an un-airconditioned Ford Pinto, I reassessed my life's ambitions and found a career in logistics. I went from working with a mining and smelting company that took me to San Francisco, CA with travels all over the southwest, northwest, and Vancouver, BC. I declined a move to New York, and was blessed to complete the rest of my career with Anheuser-Busch. I have a blast being a very active Grandfather, watching another generation grow.
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory? I remember my teachers working outside of SLUH so they could support working at SLUH. Mr. Vitale finishing cement during one sweltering summer among others. Memories, who could forget our sophomore biology class teacher slinging a snow ball (yelling "squirrel sperm") at one of our classmates. Or of course, who could forget the friendly smile and kind words of Fr. Valiquette.
Michael Noelker Tell us about your family today. My wife Kathy and I are blessed with 3 daughters, and now 2 grandsons, that remain the center of our lives. Two of our girls are married, so our family has grown with these new clan members. We also have a significant number of extended family members within the St. Louis area that we remain very close to - family remains a critical component of our everyday lives!
Where did you go for education after SLUH? After graduation, I bounced around at a couple of different colleges with no defined career path, so I quit school and worked in the landscaping field for a few years. I then returned to school at the University of Missouri-Columbia (MIZ!) and graduated (finally!) with a degree in Business Logistics in 1984.
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? For the past 50 years, I have been focused on raising our family, working for-theman/woman and continuing my journey of serving Jesus Christ. I continue to live in Ferguson where I was born and raised, now living a mile from my childhood home. My greatest achievements are having a wife of 42 years who continues to put up with me, having 3 daughters who still hug me when they come to visit and 2 grandsons that still think I’m kind of cool. Kathy and I enjoy travel within the US, the beaches on the Gulf of Mexico, as well as European travel that we have enjoyed several times over the years. My faith life is very important to me as I continue to serve Jesus through engagement with our parish (Sacred Heart – Florissant), the St. Vincent de Paul Society and the Blessed Teresa of Calcutta Catholic grade school here in Ferguson.
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory? My favorite teachers at SLUH were Fr. Pieper, Coach Calacci, Art Zinselmeyer and Jim Murphy as they instilled in me a love of history and geography that remain with me today. My favorite SLUH memory is the life-long friendships that I developed with guys from all over the St. Louis area – friendships that remain with me to this day. And, oh yea, the Huzzah Valley class camping trip!
Bill O’Neil Tell us about your family today. Married to Leigh Ann Houck in 1982. We have 2 children. Our daughter Jennifer lives in Dallas, TX with her husband Greg. They have 2 sons, Hank (7) and Max (4). Our son Greg lives in Ballwin.
Where did you go for education after SLUH? I attended University of Missouri - Columbia. I was a member of Phi Kappa Theta fraternity. I graduated with a BSBA - Accounting degree.
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? I worked at Anders, Minkler & Diehl CPA's from 1980 - 1994. I next worked as the Controller of the Fox Theatre from 1994 - 1998. I joined Carrollton Bank in 1998 as CFO. I worked there until 2026, when I retired. I continue as the Secretary of the Board of Directors. My wife and I enjoy spending time with our children and grandchildren. We also enjoy gardening, volunteering and spending time with our friends.
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory? Favorite SLUH teacher - Mr. Dick Keefe. Favorite SLUH memory - listening to the jukebox playing Yes - "Roundabout" and Crosby, Stills Nash and Young - "Suite: Judy Blue Eyes" every day in the cafeteria during our senior year lunch period.
Jim Paino Tell us about your family today. I've been married to my wife, Cindy, for 38 years. We have three grown children-Christine, Nicholas, and Michael--all of whom we're very proud of. Each, by the way, attended Jesuit High School in Portland, Oregon, where a demerit is called a JUG (Justice Under God). Tradition never graduates, I suppose.
Where did you go for education after SLUH? Rockhurst University, then University of Missouri for grad school.
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? After college, I returned to St. Louis and worked in public accounting with Ernst & Young before joining The May Company. Those experiences eventually led me to the Pacific Northwest--Portland, Oregon--and all it has to offer. I ultimately landed at Nike, Inc., where I spent the last 28 years of my career. Three of those years were especially memorable, living in Europe just outside Amsterdam. The international assignment was both personally and professionally rewarding. Meanwhile, my wife and I were busy raising our family, shuttling from one event to another, and findng time to travel. I retired a few years ago. Although I still call Oregon home, I spend each spring in Florida ushering at Cardinals spring training games with my brother, John. We've been doing that together for years. I'm also involved with several volunteer activities, including assisting those experiencing homelessness and speaking with inmates at the county jail. I also enjoy coaching youth sports.
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory? Selecting a single favorite memory is difficult. There are many. Playing basketball and baseball at SLUH, the cafeteria jukebox, bashball on the upper field, the uniqueness of the rec room, the music of the St. Louis Jesuits, graduation night at Powell Symphony Hall--those are memories I'll always hold onto. I'm especially proud to this day, however, whenever someone asks that classic St. Louis question: "Where did you go to high school?" It's one I never tire of answering.
John Paino Tell us about your family today. Never married, but I have many nieces and nephews with whom I am close to and watched grow up to be awesome people.
Where did you go for education after SLUH? Rockhurst College (now University). Graduated 1980. BSBA Accounting.
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? After college I worked at Coopers & Lybrand in public accounting and obtained my CPA designation. In 1985 I joined Safety National Casualty Corp. as employee #32, and 38 years/800 employees later, retired in 2023 as VP-Financial Analysis. Over the years I stayed busy playing softball, basketball, volleyball, and coaching CYC. Two particularly rewarding activities: * For over 20 years, I volunteered and served on the Board at St. Vincent Home for Children, in Normandy, MO, a home for abused and neglected kids. * Also, while living in St. Dominic Savio parish, I became best friends with SLUH history teacher, Jim Murphy, whom I hardly knew at the U. High. Our Jesuit ties and DNA united us, and together, we teamed to lead the parish high school youth group on a week long summer trip to build homes for Habitat for Humanity. For 23 years in a row we travelled to a different Habitat site, like Battle Creek, MI; Freeburn, KY; Fort Smith, AR; Gresham, WI; Tupelo, MS; Ottumwa, IA; Cookeville, TN... and learned many life lessons and impacted many lives. Rubbing elbows with Doc Murphy as friend and mentor and gaining his insights to the Ignatian ideals has been a special blessing. Now retired, my brother Jim and I each have a winter home in Jupiter, FL where we usher at the Cardinals Spring Training games. When in St. Louis, I assist at a St. Vincent de Paul food pantry and have fun as a tram announcer at Grant's Farm.
John Paino Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory? My favorite times at SLUH were playing basketball for Coach Zinselmeyer and Coach Hanick, and playing baseball for Coach Vitale. Other good memories include school dances, Royal Lichtenstein Circus, music of the St. Louis Jesuits, Dauphin Player productions - Bourneuf belting out "Oklahoma!" and graduation at Powell Hall. Favorite teachers: Mr. Dunn, Doc Robby, Fr. Joe Snyder, Mr. Stevison, Miss Coyle.
Bob Pedroli Tell us about your family today. I have three married children and each has two grandkids for six grandkids. Oldest attending Cor Jesu Academy this fall. Others at St Gabes, St Ambrose and two in Chicago public school where my daughter, Jessica, teaches special ed. My St Louis daughter, Amy, teaches special ed at Churchill. My St. Louis son, Bob, is a sole proper in the litigation support field, working for firms and governments. My grandkids are all involved in multiple activities including hockey, baseball, theatre, volleyball etc.
Where did you go for education after SLUH? I attended UMSL, Saint Louis University School of Law with honors.
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? Initially, I worked in civil litigation for the bad guys, insurance defense. Learned the ropes and went to the light side representing regular people against the corporations, insurers, institutions, hospitals, healthcare providers and various governments. I have interest in politics, public policy and family life.
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory? Mr. August Wang was very patient, especially with me, in trying to teach our class the Chinese language, zhong wen. Also, I appreciated Dick Keefe, for his patience in dealing with us as disciplinarian.
Dan Pelikan Tell us about your family today. Married 42 years to Lisa White whom I met in law school. 2 sons; Nick (SLUH ’07), and Jake (DeSmet ’09). Nick is a data science corporate manager for an AI firm in Salt Lake City. Jake earned his JD/MBA and owns his own company in Miami investing in real estate. Lisa and I are enjoying retirement. I was appointed as a Senior Judge by the Missouri Supreme Court to continue handling cases on a parttime basis. We enjoy travel and assisting the Archdiocese and many not-for-profit organizations.
Where did you go for education after SLUH? I earned a Journalism degree at Mizzou and a law degree from Saint Louis University.
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? I moved to St. Charles County to practice law. I worked for a firm for 8 years and ran my own firm for 5 years. In 1998 and 2002, I was elected associate circuit judge. In 2006, 2012 and 2018, I was elected circuit judge for a 26 year judicial career. I am currently a Senior Circuit Court Judge. In retirement, I attend daily Mass, handle judicial matters occasionally, play mediocre golf and pickleball, running, hiking and bicycling. I love assisting Foster Adoption Support Team, Birthright, Operation Food Search and CHAMP support dogs.
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory? Mr. Joe Schulte, like many others, really impacted my life by teaching me to believe in myself and trust God, especially in front of other people. I will never forget the friendships, fun, terrors and camaraderie of all four years at SLUH but especially the very, very special time of senior year and the stage productions 1776, Oklahoma and Senior Follies. I am tearing up and laughing just thinking about those greatest of days. Thank you Mr. Schulte! Thank you SLUH!
Bob Pickel Tell us about your family today. I met my wife, Barbara Lyons, in college, and we were married in 1982. She is from Kansas City and, as it happens, her 50th high school reunion is the same weekend as ours. We have three children, who live all over, and one grandchild. Our son is in Kyoto, Japan. Our older daughter lived in San Francisco for 12 years and her family is now in the process of moving to The Netherlands. For the time being, they are living with us. Our younger daughter is married and lives in Baltimore. Hank Purcell, John Link and I all went there.
Where did you go for education after SLUH? I went to Williams College in Massachusetts, arriving there sight unseen. Very few U. High grads have gone there. Bill McCalpin (SLUH '75) went there. After college, I spent a year in Washington, D.C., then went to New York University School of Law.
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? After law school, I worked at a large New York City law firm. In 1988, they transferred me to their London office, so my wife (pregnant with our second), our son and I moved for two years to London. Shortly after returning to New York, I left the law firm and went to work as an in-house lawyer at an oil company. In 1997, a former colleague from the law firm asked me to join him as general counsel at the trade association he headed, one focused on the swaps and derivatives business. A few years later he left and I became the head of the organization. I continued working there until 2014. Since then, I have been a consultant, have served on two company boards and have also chaired an organization based in The Netherlands focused on alternative dispute resolution for financial contracts and financial development in emerging economies. In 2016, my wife and I lived in The Netherlands for about five months when I was doing a fellowship at an academic institution. I have been fortunate to travel a lot for business, pleasure and, in the last few years, in order to see our children and granddaughter. Fortunately, my wife and I enjoy travel to new and familiar places. About 20 years ago, we bought an old church in upstate New York and had it restored, including 8 stained glass windows. It is in a beautiful valley and is a great place to escape and to do nothing.
Bob Pickel What have you been up to for the past 50 years? (cont.) I have always enjoyed doing puzzles pretty much of any sort. In the last couple years, I have been taking singing lessons and sing periodically at a Presbyterian church near us. Have no fear, Jesuits! I still try to attend Sunday mass at our parish church when I am home. I enjoy going back for our reunions. I have missed some, most notably the 25th when I was stuck in London having flown overnight the night of Sept. 10. I got back to New York the Sunday after 9/11. I have stayed in close touch with a number of classmates: Tom Daniel, Gary Albers, Bryan Irwin, Jim and John Paino and John Appelbaum.
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory? Calacci, Becvar, Schulte and Raterman all stand out. They all taught me a lot and challenged me in ways that I probably did not fully appreciate at the time, but have valued throughout my career. Father Vonderhaar gets a special mention because of his ability to draw a perfect circle with his back to the blackboard. I never had Zinselmeyer as a teacher, but he taught me how to shoot a basketball properly, which served me well in pick-up games over the years.
Dan Renz Tell us about your family today. Unfortunately, after 41 years of marriage, my wife, Cary, passed away after a courageous 14 year battle with ovarian cancer. Our three children all now live in Charlotte, NC along with our 4 granddaughters.
Where did you go for education after SLUH? University of Missouri Columbia -1979 Harvard Business School - 1985
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? After Mizzou and Harvard, I spent 10 years at Anheuser Busch. Then I started my own marketing services company in 1995. We had multiple offices around the country and provided services to many industries and companies ranging from Coca-Cola to the U.S. Army and the Salvation Army. In 2021, a competitor came knocking with a godfather offer, and I smartly retired. Timing was great as it enabled me to spend full time focused on Cary as she battled her cancer, gracefully called back to God in January 2023. We had moved to Naples, FL in 2019, where I now spend half the year. With the kids in Charlotte, and seeking to escape heat and hurricanes, I’ve established a second home in Cashiers, NC, enjoying mountain life…and much more hilly-terrain golf! Golf and grandkids consume my time these days.
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory? Joe Schulte - telling me not to drop AP Calculus, that it was just like taking dope you needed to stay at it before you fully got the fix!
Toryn Rhone Tell us about your family today. I have two children. My son has a business and my daughter works in Las Vegas. I live in St Louis and, along with my sister, we are caregivers for my mom.
Where did you go for education after SLUH? Forest Park Community College UMSL De Paul University
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? I worked at UPS for thirty-six years. During that time, I worked in Operations, Loss Prevention and Human Resources. I was domiciled in St. Louis and also had assignments in Seattle, Salt Lake City, Las Vegas, Nashville and New York City. Since retiring, I served on the board of directors for The Empowerment Network helping to raise money and grow the prostate cancer survivor organization. I now enjoy traveling for pleasure and hunting.
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory? Mr Joseph Vitale - I really enjoyed his Economics class. Mr. Joe Kramer - freshman English class Favorite memory is the Ring dance and homecoming games played at the old Busch Stadium.
David Richert Jr. Tell us about your family today. I’ve been happily married for over 46 (consecutive!) years to my best friend, Beverly (Bertani). We experienced the joys, challenges and opportunities of married life while raising two children (David III, now 42 and Deanna Lynne, now, 38). Both our children married – and are off the payroll! Beverly and I currently live in Webster Groves. We have two wonderful grandchildren (Charlie, 8 and half and Cecelia, 6) who live in Colorado. David lives with his wife, Jane, in Dogtown.
Where did you go for education after SLUH? I received my BSBA from the University of Missouri – St. Louis in 1979 and my MBA, also from UMSL in 1980 focusing on accounting and finance.
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? I worked my way through college as a teller at Mark Twain Bank 21. After graduation, I entered the banking working in operations / back office commercial lending. I earned my CPA and moved to the Federal Reserve Bank of Saint Louis where I spent 19 years auditing technology. After the Fed, I moved into public accounting for over 10 years at PwC and then RubinBrown. I’m currently at Stifel Financial Corp where I am currently their Chief Audit Executive. During this time, I was an adjunct professor teaching financial accounting at Meramec Community College for four years and later, as an adjunct at UMSL for three years, teaching internal auditing. While I had a modest running career at the U High, I got back into running after college, competing at distances from four hundred meters to fifty kilometers. Along the way, I ran 20 marathons (two Bostons), two ultras and logged well over 100,000 miles. I still hobble daily and the only racing I do today is the U High’s Alumni Cross Country race.
David Richert Jr. What have you been up to for the past 50 years? (cont.) I also had an unremarkable hockey career at the U High (I mostly rode the pine pony), but I fell in love with the game and passed that love onto my son. So naturally, I became a youth hockey coach for the next several years. During this time, I was approached by a U High sophomore, Mike Gau. Mike stated he was starting an InLine Hockey team at SLUH and would I be a coach. How can you say ‘no’ to the U High? After 24 very enjoyable years, having the honor to coach these truly special young men, I passed the torch. During this time, I had the privilege to coach several of my classmates. In 2010, I was inducted into the Missouri In-line Hockey Association Hall of Fame as a coach. I enjoy reading history and biographies, with a particular interest in the people and activities of the Civil War. Even our vacations typically included a history lesson. Beverly and I are looking forward to spending winters in warmer settings, traveling and spoiling our grandchildren.
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory? I had a number of good teachers, but Charlie Busenhart stands our for his dedication to his students and SLUH’s hockey program: early morning practices at Steinberg eventually advancing to indoor practices at Immerfrost. Mr. Keefe was also someone whose “guidance,” in retrospect, was important in my development. No single memory – the journey. Freshmen field day to graduation. Cross Country. Hockey. Spring Festival. And now, the monthly catch ups with friends at Milo’s. And more to come!
Jim Rieck Tell us about your family today. I married Kathy 10 years ago and now we live in Chesterfield. Between us we have five daughters and twelve grandchildren.
Where did you go for education after SLUH? I graduated from Missouri at Rolla with a BS in Chemical Engineering
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? After I graduated from UMR, I joined the Chem E Department at Union Electric working for Tom Blood’s dad, Frank. A few years in the corporate office and then a few years out at Labadie, where I learned a lot about people, maintenance and operations. I moved on to Nalco, an energy and water company. I spent my career working in various positions – field sales, management, and corporate sales and a variety of industries – food processing, ethanol, automotive, energy. I retired from Nalco in 2019. Kathy and I travel the country in our camper visiting family and bicycling, hiking, and kayaking. Next up is Pedal the Cause and then a scuba trip in Cozumel.
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory? My favorite teacher at SLUH was Father Tom Valiquette. He helped me through some big challenges in school and life.
Pat Riley Tell us about your family today. My son William, a union tradesman, is named after my dad Class of ‘48. My twins Ashley and Amber are both doctors, both graduated from Duschene. I have 4 and 1 on the way grandkids. All under 7.
Where did you go for education after SLUH? Carpenter’s apprenticeship/on the job. I went to work as a construction laborer the next day after graduation. I joined Carpenter’s Union in summer of 85 and retired at age 60 with 47 years of service earned. Lots of o.t.
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? Lived out on my own at 18, Lived in Santa Clara/ Sacramento 82- 85 on my own. It was a blast. Moved back to STL joined union, married in 89 raised 3 great kids .still. married 38 years now. We are STL CITY SC season ticket holders since day 1 and never miss a match. My wife and I are collectors of antiques, strange items, sports but mostly 1904 World’s Fair memorabilia.
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory? Mr Keefe. Man, I saw him many many times. I think you all know amnesty for Kuntz and Riley. Carpooling with my long time friend Toryn Rhone senior year
Mike Salsich Tell us about your family today. I am married to Nancy Donohoo whom I dearly love, and have three children. Neil graduated from SLUH in 2007, Lizzie from Rosati-Kain in 2009 and Maya from Clayton High School in 2022. I am very proud of all of them as they are making their way through life with good health and happiness. Nancy works at WashU and will be retiring sometime in 2027. No grandkids at this point.
Where did you go for education after SLUH? I received my BA in English from Grinnell College and MA from Brown University.
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? After graduate school, I taught briefly (at DeSmet and SLUH) and then started and ran a business for almost 20 years. After selling that business, I went into education and non-profit management, working first as an administrator at Cardinal Ritter Prep and later as head of the development operation at SLU Medical Center. Eight years ago, I left the 9 to 5 world and bought and rehabbed my first investment property and became a handyman along the way. I recently sold my last property and am trying to retire, but I am still taking care of some old handyman clients. I was mostly into sports at SLUH, but my love of music outlasted my love for sports. I am a piano player now, playing locally in a rock band (with Joe VonderHaar) and trying my best to play jazz - my main musical love. Although I am no longer formally a Catholic, I still admire and love Catholic/Jesuit spirituality and have found a home in the Episcopal church. I live (and will probably die) in St. Louis (DeMun) and enjoy hiking, fishing, gardening, birding, or just sitting on my deck listening to music. I still see some SLUH buddies regularly and deeply value the relationships and spirituality I developed in high school.
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory? Unlike some of my classmates, I really enjoyed Mr. Keefe. He was always friendly to me, and we kept in touch for several years after graduation. Mr. Kramer was also a favorite, as was Mr. Oakes. I have very humorous memories of Brother Simms ("by all means, Salsich") and my experiences on the football field (both good & bad) are still burned into my memory (Breakdown - Ha!). Everything I did, and everyone I met at SLUH, played a big part in making me who I am today.
Tom Santel Tell us about your family today. I’ve been married for 44 years to my college sweetheart, Mary Pat Cadice (Cor Jesu ’77). We have two adult children: Laura, who lives in California with her husband and our grandson; and Jim (SLUH ’08) who lives in Washington DC.
Where did you go for education after SLUH? I received my bachelor’s degree in accounting from Saint Louis University and my MBA from the University of Missouri – St. Louis. In 2011, I did a year-long fellowship at Harvard University’s Advanced Leadership Initiative.
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? After graduating from Saint Louis University, I obtained my CPA and worked for three years in public accounting at Ernst & Whinney (now Ernst & Young). I then moved to Anheuser-Busch where I spent the next 25+ years, rising to the level of vice president of corporate planning and president and CEO of the company’s international subsidiary. I left Anheuser-Busch following its sale to InBev. After spending a fascinating year at Harvard, I returned to St. Louis and worked for five years at BJC HealthCare where I designed, developed and successfully launched an early childhood program for low-income families called Raising St. Louis. Prior to leaving BJC, I turned the program over to St. Louis Children’s Hospital, where it continues to thrive. My final job was president of Civic Progress, an association of CEOs from St. Louis’s largest companies. I retired in January 2021 upon the merger of Civic Progress into Greater St. Louis, Inc. My wife and I enjoy traveling and visiting our kids and our grandson. I like to run, ski, bike, golf (poorly) and read. I’ve had a lot of fun taking up oil painting again – something I enjoyed in college but had to give up when work and children intervened. I volunteer at Loyola Academy and serve on a couple of nonprofit boards. I had the honor of being a member of SLUH’s Board of Trustees for 18 years, including two different terms as board chair. I’ve also served on search committees for several SLUH presidents and principals.
Tom Santel Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory? Favorite teachers include Fr. George Pieper, Sister Cathlin Casey, Dominic Calacci and some I didn’t have in class like Jim Raterman, Fr. Tom Valiquette SJ (who concelebrated our wedding) and Fr. Ralph Houlihan SJ (who celebrated both of my parents’ funerals). Favorite SLUH memories: Putting together a Prep News staff and producing a paper every week during senior year, lots of good times with my classmates inside and outside of the classroom. After graduating: being a SLUH Dad and board member.
John Scariot Tell us about your family today. I have three kids, two in St. Louis area and one in Nashville... and I have four grandkids ages 1 thru 6 yrs old. I'm very proud of my oldest brother who dedicated his retirement from business to help others in need. He rescued a particular charity and made it successful. The charity is called Save-A-Warrior, and it saves the lives of suicidal veterans and first responders.
Where did you go for education after SLUH? Broward Community College - Ft. Lauderdale Florida 1976 - 1977 University of Missouri - St. Louis 1977 - 1982
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? Worked at Arthur Young & Company, AT&T, MCI Worldcom, ITT Financial and then I worked 28 years at MasterCard as CFO of their Global Technology Division here in STL. First retired in 2016 and then started up a commercial payments company called BluePenguin Payments in 2018. Retired again in 2024 and work as a part-time consultant back at the company. I also offer free consulting services to young startup companies! Started playing organized ice hockey in 1982 and played for 25 years including our team somehow making it to the final four in Hockey North America in 1989. I also coached my two sons in the Webster hockey program. Injured in my 40s and after 20 years out of ice hockey, just started playing hockey again two years ago at the age of 67 in a 21-and-over league at Centene Ice Complex. I also finally got serious about healthy lifestyle, as I want to be around as long as possible for my grandkids.
John Scariot Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory? Favorite SLUH teacher was Ebbie Dunn, and I married his niece, so I got to know him personally... the best guy for sure and so dedicated to his family! I was asked by his family to give the eulogy at the service at SLUH when he passed away... I was very honored to do so. Favorite memories at SLUH were all the great longterm friends I made at SLUH who are still close friends today! I remember the fun we had everyday in the rec room shooting pool and playing bashball on the upper field.
Mike Schimmelpfennig Tell us about your family today. I've been married to my wife Debbie for 36 years, and I'm proud of my two children, Nick (34) and Ashley (32).
Where did you go for education after SLUH? I attended the University of MO - Rolla and graduated with a BS and MS in Mining Engineering in May, 1980 and May, 1981.
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? We have lived in St. Louis our entire lives, and we love the area, the people and have worked hard to make it a better place to live. I began working at Union Electric in 1980, and have loved the challenges which that work brings. I met my wife at UE, and we were married in 1990. The old UE has seen many changes over my career there, and it seems I've worked for several different companies over the years. However, the work continues to be challenging and rewarding. In 1995, the St. Louis Chapter of the Missouri Society of Engineers named me Outstanding Engineer in Industry. I've authored and coauthored many articles on coal handling and safety. I love vacationing with my family, spending time with my two current dogs and many past dogs that we rescued. I still love getting together with the many '76 classmates and look forward to many more.
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory? Karduck. Getting told by Mr Karduck that he would like to splatter me all over the floor!.
Keith Shannon Tell us about your family today. We have 2 children, Margaret and Steve.
Where did you go for education after SLUH? University of Missouri - St. Louis for undergraduate degree and MBA
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? I enjoyed 45 years employed with Schnuck Markets, and I am now retired. I now enjoy traveling, time with family and friends, working outdoors, watching sports, and playing golf.
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory? Art Zinselmeyer, both as a teacher and basketball coach. My favorite memories include hanging out with Tim Hill, Mike Sullivan, and Frank Buckley.
Steve Sharp Tell us about your family today. Married to my wife Jane for 34 years. We have 3 daughters (Sarah, Katie and Claire) and 1 granddaughter (Georgia, daughter of Katie). Sarah and Katie live in St. Louis, Claire lives in Charlotte, NC.
Where did you go for education after SLUH? University of Notre Dame
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? Stayed in St. Louis and worked in accounting at Apex Oil until 2000, then worked in retirement benefits administration at Enterprise Mobility until retirement in 2025. Am a fan of Cardinals baseball and college football (although my interest is waning in the NIL era).
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory? I fondly remember Fr. Conroy’s geometry class. He gave frequent quizzes and announced each student’s grade as he returned them. On one occasion, when returning my quiz, he couldn’t help himself and dryly quipped, “Now here’s a musical grade – ‘F Sharp’.” I also have fond memories of hanging out with my lunch table buddies and recall living dangerously sophomore year by coming within 2 demerits of suspension at the end of the school year.
Steve Siebels Tell us about your family today. Our family is doing well, and I am very proud of them. Compassionate, open minded, intelligent, talented & down to earth. Deanne and I have two daughters (34 & 29), one was married last October in Forest Park. No grandkids yet.
Where did you go for education after SLUH? UMSL BSBA 1981 SLU MBA 1991
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? I have been blessed in life with a wonderful extended family and life long friends (since the mid 1960s growing up). I started in IT sales (Winter 1982) with a company in the SF Bay area (before Silicon Valley really existed). A funny note, I was a day or two late for my initial training in California because we had the giant snowstorm on January 30-31, 1982. This industry has given us a nice income and many wonderful trips. Our daughters attended St. Ferdinand Grade School, Incarnate Word HS, then Bradley University/UMSL and SLU. Deanne and I enjoy getting together with our friends, traveling, and going to a lot of concerts throughout STL. We are big fans of the Cardinals, Blues, SLU BB, Mizzou, and more recently City SC.
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory? I don't have a favorite teacher or memory per se. In retrospect, I appreciate SLUH the most because the Jesuits provided an excellent and progressive education. Additionally, our class was made up of good guys, no one was a problem.
Ted Siegel Tell us about your family today. My wife, Patti, retired from teaching art a few years ago. She now is an important volunteer at our church. I am also proud of my three talented and gainfully employed children and two wonderful grandchildren, a boy (8) and a girl (11). I wish my son, daughter-in-law and granddaughter in California lived closer to us.
Where did you go for education after SLUH? I earned a B.A. in Communications and Math at Saint Louis University, then an M.A. in Journalism at the University of Missouri-Columbia. Then my real education began as I entered the workforce.
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? After grad school, I was hired as a copy editor at the St. Louis Globe-Democrat, working with some highly entertaining characters and through some tumultuous times. I left shortly before the paper closed for good and moved into corporate communications, first at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Missouri, then in healthcare at St. John’s Mercy and St. Luke’s Hospital in St. Louis, and later at Ascension Health, headquartered in St. Louis and, at the time, the largest Catholic health system in the U.S. I was named Editor of the Year in 2022 by PR Daily/Ragan Communications for my work, especially around internal communications during the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2024, I was let go as part of a reorganization; I’ve picked up a few freelance communications jobs since then as I’ve eased more fully into retirement. My wife and I bought a small house on an acre of land in Manchester in 1983. We still live there, but the house is much larger after expanding and adding rooms, including a basement and a second floor. That has kept me busy over the years. I’ve been a member of St. Joseph Parish in Manchester the whole time, but I really began to grow in my faith about 2005 after attending an ACTS retreat. I’m far from a saint, or even a particularly good role model, but I believe I’ve become closer to Jesus, and my family, over the past several years.
Ted Siegel Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory? Teacher: Ray Stevison. After our first freshman typing class, I hated him for his condescension. (“’My fingers won’t go that way,’ I hear you cry.”) But after getting to know him, I came to respect him as a molder of boys into men, realizing that his taking us down a peg after our “success” at getting into SLUH was just what we needed. Memory: Senior year after the CBC football game when members of our team rescued a few of us from trouble outside Busch Stadium.
Tom Sontag Tell us about your family today. My wife Susan and I are on our fourth and fifth adopted standard poodle.
Where did you go for education after SLUH? Mizzou, with majors in Finance and Accounting. Later, a fairly redundant MBA from Wash U.
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? After 5 years as a CPA, I shifted to investment brokerage and management, where I have been since. I keep an office in the Clayton area. My second job grew from sourcing wood for my woodworking hobby. In 2004, I co-founded Lumber Logs, an urban log recycler and purveyor of fine hardwoods in north city. Susan and I enjoy art and acoustic music events, gardening, and lots of dog walks.
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory? Water polo is fun.
Bob Sommers Jr. Tell us about your family today. Susan and I have been married for 40 years. I have two children: Josh, 40, and Joel, 38. I also have two very charming and funny grandchildren: Jacob, 9, and Rhea, 4. We all work together and live on the island of Maui in Hawaii ... and I am proud of them all.
Where did you go for education after SLUH? I went to the University of Missouri at Rolla and became an engineer. My real education started on the day I had my first child.
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? Over the last 50 years, I've worked as an engineer, professional speaker, podcaster, and marketing consultant for small businesses. I've lived in La Crosse, WI, Atlanta, GA, and here on Maui for the last 30 years. In that time, I've been a preacher, a speaker, and a bible school teacher. I enjoy swimming in the ocean, lifting weights, and I have an unhealthy fascination with the art of storytelling.
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory? My favorite teacher was Emmet Hanick. His love of physics and science persuaded me to go to Rolla and become an engineer. One of my favorite memories of SLUH is working over the summer to pay for my tuition. I had a chance to work with Bob Schnurr, Brother Witz, and a couple of other students. I also enjoyed playing basketball and baseball for SLUH, and attending plays and student dances. And who can forget playing bashball after school?
Jim Spellmeyer Tell us about your family today. Married Jackie Schinsky (CJA 1977) in May 1992. Two daughters and two sons. Older son graduated from SLUH in 2019. Two grandchildren in St. Louis (ages 2 & 4) and two new grandsons this year in Dallas!
Where did you go for education after SLUH? Saint Louis University - BA Business 1979 Kellogg School of Management @ Northwestern University - MBA 1980
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? Jackie and I have been members of St. Clare of Assisi for over 30 years. In 2011, she encouraged me to support a startup classical Catholic grade school: The St. Austin School. We have both found the experience to be extremely rewarding. St. Austin has grown to 190 students and operates out of the old St. Richard's grade school on Schuetz Rd.
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory? Jim Raterman, Fr. Valiquette, Fr. Conroy, Mr. Becvar, Joe Schulte, Sr. Casey, Jim Knapp... where to begin. All of it!
John Stieven Tell us about your family today. Married coming up on 43 years; son, daughter, son; 4 grandkids
Where did you go for education after SLUH? Parks College of St Louis University, BS Aeronautical Engineering, 1979 Central Michigan University, MS, Management, 1988 Air Force Institute of Technology, MS, Operations Research, 1993
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? 20-year Air Force career (14 addresses!!) -- retired Jan 1, 2000 Finance -- since then, still working Adjunct Professor -- since 1999, Fontbonne, SLU, Webster, Maryville, St Louis College of Pharmacy, Lindenwood University, Ranken -- Investments, Finance, Management mostly MBA level
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory? Mr. Hanick -- Physics; almost burned down the physics lab making a hot air balloon using alcohol as fuel -- long story, ask me some time.
Steve Sweetin Tell us about your family today. I have three kids and 5 grandkids. My two sons played soccer at SLU, and my daughter was a gymnast at Iowa State. My boys live in STL, and my daughter lives in Overland Park, KS.
Where did you go for education after SLUH? Southeast Missouri State
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? I worked as a local Sales associate for Interface in Kansas City. Later in my career, I moved into management and managed the middle of the country. We raised our kids in Overland Park after moving here in 1990. I coached each of my kids’ sports teams. My passion was coaching soccer. I was heavily involved with coaching several soccer teams through high school. Currently, I’m retired and spend a lot of time with my grandkids. I love riding a bike, swimming and golfing.
Don Unger Tell us about your family today. Two children. Our son David and daughter Dana. Two granddaughters Chloe and Lizzy.
Where did you go for education after SLUH? University of Missouri Rolla. B.S. Chemistry
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? Lived in the St Louis area the entire time. Spent 32 years with Intercon Chemical and retired in 2020. Enjoy time with family and especially the grandkids. Dabble in woodworking.
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory? Mr. Busenhart. Playing pool in the morning before class.
Kenneth Underhill Tell us about your family today. I live with my ex-wife Carol. We are retired, empty-nesters with two adult children, now both married. Just became grandparents in March 2026. We are so fortunate to have our family nearby.
Where did you go for education after SLUH? University of Missouri - Columbia
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? I've had a full, rather quixotic life. After college, I lived the bachelor life, sharing a townhouse apartment with SLUH alum Jim Meyer, then a rental house with Tom Blood. Met and married the sweet and lovely Carol Henzler in 1987. Worked in Sales and Marketing for uniform companies, became a father of two stellar children. Then, had the proverbial midlife crisis. Separation, divorce, new blended family and career ups and downs. Became a cocaine addict, went to Arizona for treatment and stayed for nearly two years. Fate brought me back to STL and my family, a changed man. Humble, enlightened and broke. I've lived with Carol ever since. In that time, I've written two novels, ended my career on a high note, produced a glorious blog with my beloved friend and SLUH alum, Jerry Whalen, retired, and livin' the good life, healthy, content and active.
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory? I loved Fr. Hagan. I loved Mr. Conway and Mr. Busenhart. I cannot possibly single out one memory as the best. So here's a partial list: Freshman Fun Day, our class Smokers, morning Mass, post-soccer game parties at Anstey's, cafeteria lunches, the Apartment on McCree, Huzzah outings and Stymie Band, Senior Retreat and Project, Prom at West County Mall with Felicia Etzkorn.
Jerry Utterback Tell us about your family today. Happily married to Barbara Zeis (college sweetheart) for 44 years. We have three grown, successful children (they don't live at home). Shanna, NICU Nurse at New Orleans Children's Hospital. Brandon, Asst. Principal at Borne High School, San Antonio, TX. Jordan, Education Director at Boonshoft Historical Museum, Dayton, Ohio. Two grand girls (Violet and Holly) from Brandon and Alyssa.
Where did you go for education after SLUH? University of Missouri at St. Louis. BS in Business Administration/emphasis in accounting with a minor in Economics.
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? After graduation worked 36 years for Royal Dutch Shell in New Orleans and Houston. Spent the last 10 years travelling internationally as an international auditor. Specialized in Ethics and Compliance auditing working directly for Shell's board of directors. An avid golfer historically and in retirement. Have played golf on every continent except one (guess?). Retired to a 10-acre ranch where we raise sheep because my wife trains herding dogs (border collies - 4) and competes nationally. Love music, reading and the theatre.
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory? Mr. Becvar math teacher. The lasting friends I made, bash-ball on the upper field, pool matches in the rec room (quarters for a ball hitting the floor), performing with the Dauphin players presentation of Oklahoma (on a dare) - dance troop.
Joe Vonder Haar Tell us about your family today. Lisa (Howenstein) and I married when we were 21 and still in school. We are celebrating 50 years since we first met and 47 years of marriage. We have three daughters, and each is named after an Allman Brothers song; two of them work with me, and our third is a physician. We are also the proud grandparents of seven grandchildren: two live in New York City, three are in Colorado, and two live just three blocks away from us.
Where did you go for education after SLUH? University of Dayton for undergraduate Southern Ilinois University, Edwardsville for graduate school
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? I spent 28 years with Anheuser-Busch in various sales roles across the U.S., concluding my tenure in 2010 leading the global convenience team in St. Louis. In 2011, I co-founded a company where two of my daughters work, including my daughter Melissa, an expert in the cannabis industry. Outside of work, I am passionate about music and baseball. I co-founded the band "Barley Alive" in 2011 and have performed nationally. My history with the St. Louis Cardinals includes five years on their batting practice squad through the 2011 World Series and being honored as an MLB “All-Star Among Us” for community service in 2009 and was inducted into the Cardinals Fantasy Camp Hall of Fame. I still play in the Forever Baseball 60+ League in St Louis
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory? So many exceptional teachers impacted my life, including Father Kellett, Joe Vitale, Jim Murphy, Charlie Conway and Ebbie Dunn, who told me, "This D is a gift, Babe.” That gift kept me off probation. Many of these memories stay alive because SLUH is where I met the people who remain my best friends today. Perhaps the highlight was our senior project with Salsich, Grigaitis, Berra, and Blood. Driving to El Paso, Texas, where we learned about independence and the responsibility that it comes with.
Bill Wallisch Tell us about your family today. I've been married to my wife Martha for 42 years. We have three children, John (an anesthesiologist), Eric (a pharmacist) and Rebecca, a trainer for an Engineering firm. Each one has 2 children, so we have 6 grandchildren in total. My mom is still alive and doing well, but I lost my dad about 2 years ago.
Where did you go for education after SLUH? Rockhurst College and University of Missouri
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? I have spent my entire career in accounting and finance. My first job out of college was working for a public accounting firm, then I spent 18 years or so working in Wichita for Beech Aircraft in numerous accounting positions. After this, I was the CFO for a family owned business, Cobalt Boats. While at Cobalt, I assisted the family in selling the business to another boating company, Malibu Boats. From there, I worked for an entrepreneur and legend in the hospitality industry, Jack DeBoer, in another start-up hotel franchise, WaterWalk. I then wanted to work in a non-profit position, so I became the Director of Finance for Catholic Charities in Wichita. Finally, my wife and I moved back to the Kansas City area (Tonganoxie, KS to be exact, a remote suburb of Kansas City, Kansas) as our three kids and their families had all settled in the area. It was in Kansas City where I reunited with the St. Clair family, the previous owners of Cobalt Boats. I work for them today. In addition, I teach an introduction to accounting course in the Lansing State Prison as an adjunct professor for Donnelly College, a small private college owned by the Kansas City, Kansas Diocese. In both Wichita and Tonganoxie, my family and I have lived on at least 10 acres to support my wife's hobby of caring for horses, including an Arabian show horse that my wife and daughter show. One constant from my days at SLUH is my devotion to the Cardinals. One nice thing about the Kansas City area is an active senior softball association, which has allowed me to start playing softball again.
Bill Wallisch Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory? Mr. Becvar was my favorite teacher. I also loved working for Brother Witzofsky for my various work study jobs to help pay my way through SLUH. My favorite SLUH memory was the 40th reunion. On that evening, there were 5 Wallisch brothers attending their reunions, and it was announced that this was the first and only time that had happened.
Jerry Whalen Tell us about your family today. Family currently detached. Cherish my 34 yr. old daughter Cara, aka Littly Jerry, Scientist Level II at Thermo Fischer. We are extremely close and a remarkable blessing in many ways. Also am proud of my stepson Jeremy, father of eight (yes, 8) children a loving husband to his wife Liz out in Union, MO. My other family is at Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Soulard. Our mission is to serve the poor and homeless - meals program and church shelter. I've found my purpose to share kindness.
Where did you go for education after SLUH? Attended University of Missouri and Saint Louis University
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? I "escaped" from Cleveland after kindergarten with my then 4 siblings due to my Dad's new position with First National Bank in St. Louis in 1965. Lived in an idyllic small neighborhood named Lochhaven in Manchester, small spring fed lake - small beach, fishing bass/bluegill, ice hockey/skating in winter - neighborhood of 1+ acre lots surrounded by wooded, undeveloped land to explore as kids. My best buddy growing up in Lochhaven was Jim Meyer. Still a close friend. New to St. Louis, my parents were fortunate to get to know the science teacher, Joe Soete, at St. Joseph's School. He informed my parents that my oldest brother Jim, then in 6th grade, needed to go to "The High School." Mom and Dad took his advice. He was in 1970 class. Followed by my brothers John (74) and Tom (84). SLUH was a great experience - taught to us think critically. Meeting young men from different areas and backgrounds. Made many long time friendships. It was cool being on the soccer team. Our senior class team was dominant! After college, I discovered a career in new home sales with Mason Homes, then the largest builder in Missouri. Led to an enriching long-term, fun career path - designing plans, elevations, marketing initiatives, defined sales processes. Worked in sales and marketing management for several builders, including my many years at CF Vatterott Construction, which began in St. Ann in 1919.
Jerry Whalen What have you been up to for the past 50 years? (cont.) Since joining Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Soulard, I've discovered a new purpose - to share kindness to the the less fortunate - whether for the homeless, the poor, or a stranger I encounter along my path. The Holy Spirit leads me to places that I'm not meant to be, meeting people that I didn't know. I believe that the giver of kindness gets far more reward than the recipient. I am active at my church and enjoy being with my church family. Father Bruce Forman, a SLUH grad, has been the pastor there for many years in service to others.
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory? I didn't have a favorite. But I'd have to say Spanish teacher Willie Walker for my junior and senior years. He was inclined to make the class fun (like mocking Meyer) while still trying to teach the language. My favorite memory of junior and senior years was the camaraderie with many of my classmates that continues to this day with our end of month get-togethers at Milo's and showing support of bands with SLUH grads.
Neal Wilbert Tell us about your family today. I have been married to my wife, Dori, for 42 years. My son (Bryan) graduated from the University of Southern California and is a practicing attorney in Orange County, CA. My daughter (Nichole) graduated from Oklahoma State University and is the Director of Health and Safety for a pharmaceutical manufacturing company in Orange County, CA. I have six grandchildren, ranging in age from newborn to 15 years old.
Where did you go for education after SLUH? I attended and graduated with a BS in civil engineering from Oklahoma State University with a concentration in construction management.
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? Primarily due to my development of single-family subdivisions and apartment projects throughout the nation (including two in St. Louis), I have lived in 42 different homes in 7 states.
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory? Without a doubt, Uncle Marty.
John Zacher Tell us about your family today. Wife Laura. Son and family with 2 grandkids by marriage.
Where did you go for education after SLUH? Mizzou
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? Work: lock, dam and flood protection structural reliability. In addition to St. Louis and Columbia, have lived in Virginia Beach and Berkeley, California. Hobbies: travel, guitar and bass, astronomy.
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory? Favorite teacher: Thomas Valiquette Favorite memory: graduation
Mark Zacher Tell us about your family today. Proud to be happily married to my sweetheart Jo. We celebrated our 45th anniversary this year. No kids, but we enjoy the kids and grandkids of our friends and family.
Where did you go for education after SLUH? New College of the University of South Florida and the University of Missouri School of Engineering, where I earned a BS in Civil Engineering.
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? Jo and I live on a beautiful, peaceful piece of rural Boone County, located 20 minutes from Columbia. We retired after full professional careers. Jo worked 34 years as a respiratory therapist at the UM Hospital, providing critical care to newborns as well as pediatric and adult patients. My job with MoDOT brought me to nearly every county in Missouri, and I am proud of the many highway safety improvements I helped to complete. During our working years, we traveled in the US and overseas. In 2004, we learned to scuba, and the next 13 years we visited several Caribbean Islands to see beautiful coral reef and tropical fish. Since retirement, we have been working on home improvements and spending time with friends and family. These days I appreciate the simple things in life, and I am grateful for the many blessings we share.
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory? Joe Kramer. Freedom Homeroom.
Paul Zimny Tell us about your family today. My wife and I have been married 26 years, We have 2 daughters (both married) and one beautiful18-month-old grandbaby girl!
Where did you go for education after SLUH? I graduated from Saint Louis University but also attended Loyola University in New Orleans, Gonzaga University in Spokane, Washington and Saint Louis University in Madrid, Spain.
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? Haha - how much time do you have? Well let's see - married later in life, our oldest daughter is a mom and loving it, youngest daughter just got married this year. More grandkids are expected, so have to keep myself mentally and physically fit. My wife, Gina, and I spent 10 days in Paris, France over our 25th wedding anniversary in August, 2025 and loved every minute (profile pic is one of our last taken). Big achievements? Besides work and family proud of the book I wrote about my dad (The Last 15 Days) and the 4-show Rock-n-Roll performances I created in 2025 (Klassic Rock Karaoke).
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory? I think it's a tie between Fr. Vonderhaar and "TV"- (Fr.) Thomas Valiquette. I received my only A+ at SLUH from Fr. Vonderhaar (and didn't get hit too often with an eraser because I sat in the back of the classroom), and Father Valiquette was just such a cool guy!
St. Louis University High