As we 200+ boys anxiously entered the halls of the Backer Memorial in the Fall of 1971, we could not have foreseen the changes and challenges in us, the school, and society, that lay before us. Transitioning to an all-male student body from throughout the metro area, an almost all male faculty, a brand-new library, and the looming specter of Watergate, let alone the horrors of Algebra, Foreign languages, etc. were among the challenges we encountered. Yet amid this intimidating uncertainty, there were numerous guideposts and anchors upon which to build, grow and flourish, not the least of which was a talented, caring, and dedicated faculty.
However, what was, is, and will always be the hallmark of St. Louis U. High is the Jesuit mantra of “Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam.” That message permeates the entire fabric of the institution…and us. Thus, as we gather to relive our shared earlier times – both good and bad - we do so knowing that consciously or not, our successes and failures have been indelibly influenced by that mantra impressed upon us in our formative years on Oakland Avenue.
A material manifestation of that mantra is your collective, selfless generosity to fund a fully endowed scholarship to St. Louis U. High, thereby ensuring future young men, regardless of their financial situation, might be the beneficiaries of a SLUH education. Just as previous generations supported the mantra and provided for us, you all honor that legacy with your present generosity.
In addition to reflecting about our shared paths, this 50 reunion will serve as a reminder of who we are, and the profound impact SLUH had, and continues to have, on all of us. th
Enjoy our reflections.
JPW
Reunion Planning Committee
Jack Barry, Jim Blase, Mike Borts, Jerry Dwyer, Tim Erman, Pat Hart, Dave Herriford, Brian Higgins, Bill McCalpin, Tom O'Toole, Phil Sidlo, John Walsh, Frank Werner
In Memoriam
Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them.
Kevin M. Curran
Mark C. Denny
Matthew P. Drumm
Joseph B. Einspanier
Patrick J. Farrell
John M. Heagney
Ronald J. Hoven
Edward J. Kammer
Warren W. Langford
Robert J. Operschall
Thomas J. Rosenauer
Jiri W. Simon
Gerard M. Sullivan
Jerome J. Thompson
Brian M. Troupe
Vincent H. Venker II
Paul D. Watkins
Kevin M. Curran
Mark C. Denny
Matthew P. Drumm
Joseph B. Einspanier
Patrick J. Farrell
John M. Heagney
Ronald J. Hoven
Edward J. Kammer
Warren W. Langford
Robert J. Operschall
Thomas J. Rosenauer
Jiri W. Simon
Gerard M. Sullivan
Jerome J. Thompson
Brian M. Troupe
Vincent H. Venker II
Paul D. Watkins
Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them.
I've been married 44 yrs to Eileen We have 2 adult daughters who are both married, and between them we have 7 grandkids. I moved from STL to Phoenix/Scottsdale, AZ in January, 2000 to open an office for STL-based Southwest Bank. In 2007, I connected with former colleagues who were at Enterprise Bank & Trust in STL and agreed to open an EB&T office in AZ. I play a fair amount of golf and enjoy spending lots of time with my grandkids.
Tell us about your family today.
Jack Barry
I went to UMSL because of their strong Accounting program, and at the time, thought I wanted to be in public accounting However, at the last minute, I pivoted to banking and have been in that industry ever since
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
Oh my, probably not enough time or interest for others to probably respond to this However, in general, I've been blessed with a great family life, enjoyable professional career and high energy to create a large number of friends and social circles. Arizona has been a great place to raise our family and "in general" it allows me to participate in a number of diverse things. I'm still working in the banking industry and may not fully retire until my 70's. I really enjoy mentoring our newer associates. I think the Jesuits instilled in me the duty to pass on information/help to others Finally, I still have strong memories and passions about STL, and of course, SLUH. I'm fortunate that I work for a company with HQ in STL. It allows me to get back to the town at least 3 or 4 times a year There is something therapeutic about recollecting great memories of my St. Louis days. One more thing: Always and forever a Cardinals, Blues, Mizzou and, of course, a Jr. Bills fan!
Toughest question yet. In thinking about the reunion, I've also been thinking about the number of excellent teachers I had at SLUH. Candidly, there are many, many teachers that provided amazing experiences A few of the names that I think provided some challenging, yet effective advice, were guys like Mr. Keefe, Mr. Raterman, Mr. Rubich, Fr. Hagan. I probably shouldn't forget Fr. Houlihan, Fr. Conroy or Mr Busenhart
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory?
My dad and mom and each and everyone of my large extended family members!!! As well as a good number of my teachers, especially my Uncle Louie (The Reverend Louis Albert Barth, S.J.)
John Barth
Tell us about your family today.
Saint Louis University, B.A. Russian Lgs. & Lits., 1979 University of Illinois, C-U, MA in Slavic Linguistics, 1988
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
34 yrs. in transportation of people and packages, primarily!!! Attend Holy Infant Catholic Church every Sunday & other area Catholic churches!!! Love following sports and music and movies!!!
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
Mr Becvar and Mr George Morris just being with those great bunch of guys (my classmates for 4 yrs. and more).
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory?
Jim Blase
Tell us about your family today.
We have four adult children (including two boys who graduated from SLUH) and three young grandchildren, so far I am proud of my entire family (my three oldest kids all went to Notre Dame together), but I am most proud of my wife, Donna, for putting up with me for over 50 years now That cannot be easy - as you all remember! :)
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
John Carroll University, Notre Dame Law School, and the New York University Law School Graduate Program in Taxation.
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
Two weeks after graduating from SLUH, I met my wife Donna during orientation at John Carroll I am a practicing estate planning attorney in Chesterfield, and Donna works with me Since forming my own law firm in 1999, Donna has won Employee of the Year, every yearand it's not even close! We are so lucky to have been able to work side-by-side, all these years
I also taught at SLU Law School for ten years, and later I taught estate planning attorneys.
I do a lot of writing, both professionally and for fun, so I guess you would call writing " my golf." My newest book, "Theodore Roosevelt's Brotherhood of America: A Daily Journal of the President's Nationwide Travels," will be released this fall
Our family's travels pretty much mirror Theodore Roosevelt's out west. [I know, pretty sad.] But we have also gone on several pilgrimages, including to Manresa, Spain (where St Ignatius of Loyola began writing his Spiritual Exercises), Fatima, Lourdes, the Holy Land and Vatican City (the latter two during Holy Week), and did a mission with St. Mother Teresa's Missionaries of Charity, in Calcutta I am probably most famous for having, at one point, kissed Mother Teresa on the lips :)
Another highlight of my life was standing in the waters of D-Day in Normandy off Omaha Beach
Jim Blase
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory?
Ebbie Dunn
The retreat we did, I think after junior year, was so special. It definitely changed my life. I am so appreciative, not only of our faculty who participated, but of our classmates who helped organize it. Just know you had a significant effect on all of us!
And I loved being a part of our amazing Senior Follies, "That's Education " You guys were all so talented, and funny!
Last, but definitely not least, I will always remember, so fondly, our "Special 17" classmates who have passed.
No children, no pets but lots of nieces, nephews and siblings and lots to keep up with We are happy to be active in our local community
Michael Borts
Tell us about your family today.
After SLUH I attended Mizzou and then came back to SLU for Medical School. I then went to Southern Illinois University in Springfield for a Residency in Internal Medicine, and finally back to St. Louis for a Fellowship in Allergy and Immunology at SLU. My wife and I have remained in St. Louis ever since.
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
I recently retired at the end of 2023. I enjoyed practicing Allergy and Immunology for 30+ years That specialty allowed me to know and care for multiple generations in my practice I also enjoyed the advancement in knowledge and treatment options over that time, and working with students, Residents and Fellows in training. Now that I am no longer practicing medicine, I have had more time to volunteer at our Parish, cooking, gardening, exercising regularly and even traveling (I enjoy being other places, but I don't enjoy "going" to other places.)
They were all an inspiration, but Father Raymond Distler (Latin) was my favorite. I doubt I was his favorite student, but I enjoyed his quiet enthusiasm and expansive knowledge
My favorite memory is of the collective support and mutual respect that everyone had for their classmates
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory?
36 years married to Karen Kogler, daughter Maggie in Chapel Hill, NC, son Greg in Phoenix, AZ
Marty Breeden
UMSL, SLU, Webster.
Tell us about your family today.
40 years in hospital leadership in St Louis, Red Bluff, CA, South Bend, IN, and finally Gilbert AZ before retiring as planned in December 2018
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
I took guitar lessons instead of pre calculus during Fr Thomas Valiquette’s brain child “K Day” (Kaleidoscope Day) freshman year. I’m still playing guitar today on stage and at memory care facilities. I still have no idea what calculus is.
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory?
Married to Laurie since 1980
3 kids - Liz, Hannah & Chris
One son-in-law - Chase (Liz).
One grandson - Will (Liz & Chase)
Bill Bunkers
Tell us about your family today.
B.A. - University of Missouri - St. Louis
M A - Northwestern University
Worked in radio & TV - KWMU, KADI, KETC.
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
Went to grad school & then landed in event marketing and stayed for nearly 40 years: executive producer, managing director, VP, SVP, EVP roles at several agencies
Moved to Chicago in '86 and still live there.
Left full-time work in 2019 to "downshift" as a consultant and executive coach
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
I still play drums and currently perform with three different groups Trying to learn how to play the bass.
Favorite things to do: hang out with my family, cause trouble with my grandson, play music, go to concerts and theater, cook and travel with Laurie
I've forgotten their names, but my sophomore and junior English teachers stand out. They taught me how to write and form a point of view, which was a critical skill throughout my career
My favorite SLUH memory happened outside of school with my friends: concerts at MRF and Kiel, party at Kwapis' house, Webster park habitrail, band gigs and jams and going to dances
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory?
Married 48 years 5 children and 8 grandchildren
Brian Burkard
Harvard of the Midwest - UMSL
Tell us about your family today.
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
Fr. Bailey
John Heagney sitting on a bench at the school entrance with a case of beer
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory?
Ruty Chaves
Married 35 years to Joselina (02/16/1990). Both retired; maintaining our primary residence in Lynnwood, several months in The Philippines (i.e., Quezon City and Manila), other times traveling Jillian, 29 years old; our only child; Doctor of Physical Therapy* currently practicing in the Greater Puget Sound area. *Travel PT
Tell us about your family today
BA Chemistry St Louis University
Doctor of Dental Surgery University of Missouri - Kansas City School of Dentistry
SLU years: worked St Mary's Health Ctr/R Hts; "lower 48" road trips
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
1980: Worked QC Tretolite Div, Petrolite Corp/Webster Groves JUN-AUG
First Manila return since immigrating to St Louis 07/1967
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
Visiting family friend, met Joselina/future wife had interacted with older sisters; our houses 1/4-mile apart my father/OB-GYN delivered all six siblings unable to date her since still in university/accounting major
AUG: UMKC dental education start
1982 Joined USN Dental Corps "give back" to America for opportunity to a better life 3-yr commitment, post graduation; TRAVEL/EXPERIENCE! 1984
MAY: LT/O-3 commission
JUL: Active Duty start, BDC NAVSTA Seattle explored West Coast/British Columbia to California
Ruty Chaves
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? (Continued)
1986
USN
Dental Clinic Okinawa, Japan; be with the USMC, experience Japanese culture Twice deployed onboard USS St Louis 8-month duty US Army Garrison Torii
1988
BDC NAS Moffett Field/CA
09/1988-03/1989 Battle Group Bravo/WESTPAC, IO, N Arabian Sea, Persian Gulf
Volunteered Mobile Dental Tm III; first LT selected, usually for LCDRs
OCT: Port of call Subic Bay; Manila to reconnect with Joselina, our first date/chaperoned
1990
FEB: Manila: asked for her hand in marriage, receiving only a smile
Then, "Pamamanhikan", Filipino tradition two families meet (discuss wedding plans, finances, living arrangements) and me formally ask family for her hand in marriage
Potential uncertainties FEB - AUG/my planned return; married before a judge 02/16
JUN: LCDR/O-4 promotion
07/25: Joselina's San Francisco arrival
07/31: Last active duty day
08/02: Desert Shield/Storm: expect Recall Orders, opted to go on cross country road trip
DEC: Seattle arrival
1991
JAN: Recall Orders received, hostilities ceased before able to report
FEB: First civilian job as a dentist
1993
AUG: My private practice open for business
1996
SEP: Birth of daughter/Jillian
2004
MAY: Honorable Discharge from US Navy
2018
All teachers were well-liked, except two.
SEP: Retired from dentistry due to neurological issues
Travel and Photography PURSUED!
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory?
Married to Debbie (Prophet) Compton 44 years. Sadly, she passed away on my birthday this year. We did not have children.
Jim Compton
Tell us about your family today
Went to St Louis University from 1975 - 1978 and went to St Louis University Medical School early decision I was proud to have graduated undergraduate as Summa Cum Laude, and I was also Phi Beta Kappa and graduated medical school Cum Laude and AOA I was also proud to be listed among Who's Who in American Medical Schools
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
We lived in Shaw from 1980 to 1985 and then moved to our current home in Wildwood I practiced general internal medicine and enjoyed having medical students and residents every month for 39 years I loved practicing medicine using my intellect to diagnose and treat. I love the outdoors and my hobbies include photography, target shooting and gardening Thanks to encouragement and inspiration from my wife, we were able to travel extensively to many countries, including England, Ireland, Scotland, Switzerland, Morocco, Monte Carlo, Turkey, Greece, Antartica, Alaska, Hawaii, Tahiti, St Martin, St John and St Barts We also were able to travel on the Concorde Medical issues forced me into retirement after my wife passed away, and I have a much quieter life now, but I have good company with my neighbors and several cats that keep me company
I really enjoyed Mr Calcaterra who taught math The great friendships I made were the highlight of my SLUH experience I valued that St Louis U High was one of my most challenging educational programs, including medical school, and it taught me how to properly study and be prepared for the rest of my education
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory?
Matt Crawford
Tell us about your family today.
Wife, Son & Daughter, 5 grandkids Proud of them all
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
Maryville - St Louis (B S in Psychology)
UM-St Louis (post-grad, Organizational Psychology)
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
• Played soccer at Maryville, was co-captain for their first 3 years in the NCAA Continued playing in adult leagues, then coaching and refereeing CYC
• Completed the St. Louis Marathon at age 41.
• Became Sr VP – Administration and CFO at local financial planner and broker-dealer / investment advisor
• Worked as Dispatch, Fleet, & Warehouse Supervisor for a local courier, warehouse & fulfillment service
• Spent 24 years at CitiMortgage and U S Bank in data analysis
• Other than a short stint in Springfield IL, I’ve lived in the St Louis area my entire life.
• Performed in local cover bands on keyboards & vocals; played the KHITS Rock ‘ n CholesteRoll concerts for 5 years, opening for bands such as America, Kansas, Michael Stanley, Charlie Daniels, Outlaws, among others.
• Joined American Mensa
• 2014-current: Founder and Director of the Maryville Men’s Soccer Alumni Network with membership of over 360 former players and coaches.
• Was honored with the 12th-Man award from Maryville Men’s Soccer (2018)
• Retired I enjoy watching professional soccer, going to Maryville Univ soccer matches, performing and listening to music, cycling, and writing the history of Maryville Men’s Soccer
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory?
No clear favorite. Fond memories of hanging with friends, running track and cross-country, playing Bashball, attending Jr Bill football and soccer games and enjoying the basement rec room (I still think “Nickel!” when I hear something hit the floor)
Married to Sue (nee Rice) with three adult children (Betsy, Anne & Tim) Betsy is married to John Penilla (SLUH '99) with three kids. Anne is married to Dave Randman and lives in England with two sons Tim (SLUH '08) is married to Emma Tolman and lives in California
Bill M. Dale
Tell us about your family today
Went to University of Missouri - Rolla (now MST) graduating with a BS in Civil Engineering and an MS in Engineering Management
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
Lifelong St Louisan, worked 14 years with Procter & Gamble Manufacturing after graduation from school. Left P&G in order to stay in STL and eventually got into consulting with Ernst & Young to lead ERP projects After a couple years on the road, I left E&Y and found my way into Missouri Botanical Garden to lead packaged software implementations and to do budget and strategic planning work. Retired in July 2023 Now focused on enjoying our family and travel
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
I had great respect for a number of influential teachers Father Kellet gave me an introduction to Latin and my high school nickname Father Hagan impressed me with his wisdom and perspective. A number of teachers fueled my interests in math and science Mr Keefe impressed me with the relationships he could build while instilling a sense of maturity & discipline to our group And, of course, Mr Dunn was our beloved & successful soccer coach.
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory?
University of Chicago
Rainer Dittert
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
Loyola University of Chicago, IBM Chicago, IL, then IBM Lexington, KY, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
Loyola
Jerry Dwyer
Tell us about your family today.
I was married for 30 years to Patty Christensen and am now a widower I have three children: Jerry Jr., Marie Claire, and Emma. I was one of four brothers to attend SLUH from Holy Redeemer: John (’61), Joe (’63), and Jim (’71). I am happy to announce I have recently become engaged to Tina Sappington
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
I earned my B A from Saint Louis University, followed by my M D from the Saint Louis University School of Medicine I completed cardiology and electrophysiology fellowships at Washington University School of Medicine. I later earned my MBA from the University of Missouri-Columbia, bringing together clinical expertise and strategic business insight
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
I am a doctor, developer, and entrepreneur I maintain a full-time cardiology practice at Missouri Baptist Medical Center and SSM Health Saint Clare Hospital in St. Louis, with satellite offices in Union, Missouri and at Washington County Memorial Hospital in Potosi, Missouri to continue delivering high-quality care across diverse communities Beyond the clinical setting, I contribute to healthcare governance and education as a Trustee of Saint Louis University and a board member of the SSM Health Foundation.
I’ve founded and led multiple ventures across healthcare and business. As Chairman of Missouri Heart Care, I established one of the region’s first doctor-owned cardiac catheterization labs at SSM St Joseph Hospital I also worked globally through leadership and advisory roles with Biotronik USA, Avail MedSystems, and Coala Life US. I co-founded MediBlurb, a digital health information platform, and am a partner in Sunora Bacanora, a premium spirits company I enjoy working with companies on intellectual property monetization and corporate patent strategy to translate scientific innovation into commercial value.
As CEO of QuantumNext DX (QNDX), I am leading the integration of AI, quantum computing, and advanced data analytics into healthcare. Our work focuses on applying these technologies to areas such as precision medicine, drug discovery, and advancing remote patient monitoring and cybersecurity in health systems, ensuring that innovation enhances both quality of care and data protection.
Jerry Dwyer
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory?
My favorite SLUH teacher has been Fr Ralph Hoolahan, who I remained close friends with over the years. I also remember Fr. Phil Kellet, who taught me Latin. I fondly remember my senior project down at Cardinal Glennon in the radiology department, which opened my eyes to being in a hospital setting Also, I loved being senior class president and receiving the Ed Hawk Memorial Award senior year for my efforts.
Fr Vonderhaar & Mr Karduck – were characters! Mr Stevinson patiently taught us to type; a much needed skill!
Mr. Keefe was an enthusiastic & effective French Teacher. I struggled in 1st Yr French but he was able to help me, and I took 4 yrs of French and I enjoyed it
Favorite SLUH memories
Bob Elliott
Many lasting friendships I made at SLUH.
Infectious school spirit that was on display at all SLUH sporting events
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory?
The personal growth & development from a skinny 14-yr-old kid to a 18-yr-old ready for college
Married to the wonderful wife and mother, Janine, for 43 years. Three children and one granddaughter.
Tim Erman
Missouri S&T - Rolla
Tell us about your family today
After a 40 year career associated with Emerson with stops in Kansas City, St Louis, Austin and Marshalltown, IA, we have retired to Wildwood.
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
We are back and happy to reconnect with many lifelong friends We have a quarterly gathering, Billiken Beers. Let me know if you’d like to be added to the notification list.
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
My favorite memories were created with help from mentors Joe Schulte and John Craig in the theater and culminated with the shared experiences of the senior follies. Oh yeah, did I mention we were Intramural Bash Ball Champions!
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory?
My wife Laurie and I have been married nearly 37 years We have 2 daughters and 6 grandchildren.
Charlie Eschmann
Saint Louis University
Tell us about your family today
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
I started out in public accounting as a CPA, then worked at a publicly held conglomerate for 4 years My final 37 years were at Boeing where I held various accounting and finance positions. Lived in St. Louis my entire life. I attend weekly Mass where I serve as an usher (and also see Mr Ray Stevison) We enjoy spending time with our grandchildren, traveling, lawn and gardening, following our local sports teams. I also enjoy reading and investing.
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
Favorite teacher was Fr Phil Kellett with Tom Becvar as runner-up Hard to remember on memories but here’s 4:
a Varsity football win over Webster with the punt play We were #1 and they were #2
b. Joe Vitale stories during Economics class
c Freshmen bus trip to Althoff organized by Mr Stevison for a C team b-ball game Invasion by us Freds
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory?
d. Mr Otten’s junior year English class which gave me an appreciation of American Literature
Craig Farrell
Tell us about your family today.
Wife Carla (since '88). We met in '84 in Rolla on the way to a bike race. She's had a varied employment history including stints as a physical therapy assistant, bike shop clerk, and medical research assistant She now volunteers for Open Door Animal Sanctuary, working in a cat adoption room at a PetsMart and occasionally fostering kittens.
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
Quincy College (1 yr), UMSL - BS in Math '79, Wash U MSCS '83
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
After I got my BS from UMSL, I went to work for a steel distributor called Tubular Steel doing business application programming
A few years of doing that and taking night classes at Wash U, I went to work at a startup that quickly failed. I realized I could finish my masters in 2 semesters, so I quit work and went to school full time At the same time, I started riding my bike every day with a couple of other people who were racers and were going to school at Wash U. also. Following graduation, I spent the summer racing my bike (and realizing my limitations at it) In the fall, I got a job at Interface Technology coding telephone Interactive Voice Response systems. Interface Technology was subsequently renamed to TALX Corp. Its business changed to providing employment and income verification and unemployment compensation management, then it was acquired by Equifax.
Outside of work, cycling has demanded most of my attention Racing for many years, then riding tandems with my wife and even now riding most every day keeps me fit and going outside. Many vacations have involved cycling including trips to watch the World Championships in Colorado Springs, Hamilton, Ontario, Geelong Australia, and Richmond VA, as well as 2 tandem trips to France. Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory?
I didn't have a favorite teacher, but I found that the most obviously useful class for my subsequent career was Accounting with Mr Stevison
Married 44 years to Betsy Two children Son lives in LA with his wife and daughter Daughter lives in KC with her husband and two children.
Bruce Feldmann
Tell us about your family today.
In and out of various state colleges for eight years but finally graduated from WashU in 1983 with BSCE.
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
Life-long St Louisan In retirement, I've made the switch from trying to have the perfect weed-free, green lawn to converting as much lawn area as possible to native gardens.
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
I'm in debt to all the English teachers I had at SLUH for providing a strong foundation in Literature and the ability to write in a concise, coherent manner, a skill that was invaluable during my career And as odd as it sounds, I'm also appreciative of Mr Stevinson and Freshman Typing for developing the typing skills that were beneficial at SLUH, during college, and beyond.
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory?
Charlie Ferrara
My 94-year-old mother is healthy and alive! I have 4 brothers who are all SLUH Alumni and 3 sisters who all graduated from Cor Jesu Academy. I have nieces and nephews as well as a grand-niece, who all live in the St Louis area I have lots of relatives, uncles, aunts, cousins and such who mostly live here And I've always considered the parish where I am assigned as my family.
Tell us about your family today.
I received a B.A. from St. Louis University, and an M.A. from Marquette University. I earned an M Div from Regis College as a part of the Toronto School of Theology, and an S.T.M. from the University of Toronto.
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
After graduating from the U High, I went to Mizzou for a year and UMSL for another, before entering the Jesuit Novitiate. Throughout Jesuit formation, I was educated, formed and prepared for a life of service, which I have done through being Ordained first a Transitional Deacon, ("I was known as Deacon Charlie") and then a Priest, and they call me "Father Charlie." Since graduating from SLUH, I exchanged playing the clarinet and saxophone for playing the acoustic guitar Periodically, I have made up songs, but I am not as famous as the Saint Louis Jesuits! I enjoy cooking, since I learned all the recipes from my family's restaurants, Rich & Charlie's, and The Pasta House Co , where I worked as a busboy and a waiter I am an avid sports fan, especially during Championship years for the Rams, the Cardinals and the Blues! I have travelled extensively, the furthest being when I lived in Australia and New Zealand for a year I am a 4th Degree Member of the Knights of Columbus, and have proudly served as their Chaplain, earning the call name, Father Charlie Chaplain
My favorite SLUH teacher was Father Andrew Deeman, S.J., who taught me how to properly view and appreciate films, especially those directed by Alfred Hitchcock. My favorite SLUH memory was walking across the stage at Powell Symphony Hall on Sunday, June 1st, 1975 and receiving my diploma!
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory?
Married; wife/Donna worked at SLUH while I attended law school; she subsequently went to law school and is also a practicing attorney; we have 2 daughters; 7 grandkids who were born, live & educated in Texas including Texas A & M, TCU, Texas Tech and Purdue (Indiana)
Tell us about your family today
U of Missouri and SLU Law School
Rob Frayne
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
Continue to play a lot of racquetball & padel for 50 years; also enjoy motorcycle riding and fly-in fishing in various locations in Canada; still active as parishioner at Sacred Heart; retired as full-time Senior Trial Attorney after 40 years but have worked part-time as attorney at Evans & Dixon Law Firm the last 2 years with my good friend/Mike Banahan
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
Mr. Dick Keefe was my “hands down” favorite. No particular story to recant other than his support and unwavering friendship during my 4 years at SLUH (and thereafter).
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory?
I am married and have a 30-year-old daughter who lives in Washington, DC. She got married last September.
Mark Friedman
Tell us about your family today
Oberlin College
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
I live in a 14-unit cohousing community in Oakland, California that I helped start over 25 years ago. I work at a private high school as the Global Education Director, which means I travel around the world with high school students. Most recently, I took a group to Greece to study global migration and democracy I write this from Colombia where I’m spending six weeks studying Spanish and salsa without students.
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
We were studying Macbeth. We did a class production of the play, and the student who played Lady Macbeth used two balloons to augment his figure. When he delivered the line ‘ unsex me here,’ he had a pin in one hand and popped one balloon. Then he added “and here” and popped the other. My wife was a high school English teacher for many years and always enjoyed sharing this tale when she taught the Scottish play
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory?
Christopher J Guilfoy, DDS (SLUH Class of 2003)
Michael W Guilfoy, Tesla Director of Cell Manufacturing Operations (SLUH Class of 2006)
Tell us about your family today.
John Guilfoy
Douglas J Guilfoy, Vice President Wells Fargo Wealth & Investment Mgmt Finance (SLUH Class of 2010)
I have been married to my wife, Laura, for 43 years We live in Las Vegas and have 3 married boys and 2 grandchildren.
Dan Hanneke
Tell us about your family today.
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
University of Missouri - St Louis
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
Had the opportunity to work at Anheuser-Busch and as a wholesaler for 30 years
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory?
Mr. Stevinson
The times and teams I was fortunate to play on for 4 years!!
As far as I know, I have no children or grandchildren but am willing to submit DNA.
Jeff Harrison, SJ
Saint Louis University
Boston College
Georgetown University
Tell us about your family today
Jesuit School of Theology at Berkeley
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
I entered the Society of Jesus in 1975 and was ordained a priest in 1987 I have served on the faculties of De Smet Jesuit and St. Louis U High Schools, Regis Jesuit High School and the Jesuit English school in Taunggyi, Myanmar At SLUH from 1996 to 2007 I taught United States Histories, directed the Senior Service Projects and the Senior Follies and moderated the Democratic Socialist Club and the Safe Space Program for LGBTQ students
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
I was a project director with the Jesuit Refugee Service in Kenya and Sudan and have twice been assigned to Belize in Central America Until All Things New in 2023, I was the pastor of St Matthew the Apostle Parish in the St Louis Ville area I am currently head of the Jesuit Slavery project which studies and publishes the history of Jesuit and Catholic slavery and am a pastoral minister to North St Louis
I will never forget Sophomore Geometry with Fr. Robert Conroy. He taught me more about how not to teach more than all the others I have had in my life Fr David Wayne was a great positive influence and, as his Jesuit superior in Denver, it was my honor and sorrow to attend him in his last days and to preside at his funeral in 2014.
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory?
Married 46 years 3 daughters
7 grandchildren (ages 3 to 24)
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University of Missouri, St Louis
Retired in August, 2023
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
Volunteer for Cardinals Care/Redbirds Rookies; St. Louis Senior Olympics; GO! St. Louis
Golf, senior softball, reading, traveling, babysitting (these are a few of my favorite things ��)
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
Hundreds of good memories
No favorite teacher but maintain that the one class that has withstood the test of time is typing. Without it I couldn’t fill out this questionnaire.
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory?
Pat Hart
My wife and I just celebrated our 42nd anniversary and have been blessed with 6 children and 2 grandchildren (so far). We've lived in Milwaukee since graduating from law school in 1982 All our 5 sons attended Marquette University High School in Milwaukee and have become fine young men Our daughter also attended Divine Savior Holy Angels High School in Milwaukee and is a fine young woman.
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John Herbers
Georgetown University, for Foreign Service My major was Russian Studies, and I spent the summer of 1978 in Leningrad (St. Petersburg).
Boston College Law School, Newton, Massachusetts Was an editor on the International and Comparative Law Review.
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
College in D C was great, and law school in Boston even better since that's where my wife and I met We moved to Milwaukee right out of school and have built a life from scratch in this new town. I joined my law firm, Reinhart, in 1982 and spent my entire 43-year career with them, focusing on estate planning and probate work I've had the opportunity to interact professionally with two SLUH classmates, Jim Blase and Bill O'Toole, during my career.
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
My wife and I are very active in our parish, St Monica's in Whitefish Bay We see John Mehan (SLUH '74) regularly at church with his family. We also are very active in our Archdiocese, where we have chaired the Archbishop's Annual Appeal for 3 years I also serve on 3 Archdiocesan boards serving the entire community
My hobbies include biking, hiking and camping All my sons were Boy Scouts, and all earned the rank of Eagle as did I as well as my 4 brothers I continue on the Board of the local Boy Scout Council.
George Morris taught us Russian for all 4 years, and he was more than a teacher As with many of the teachers at SLUH, he took a personal interest in my future and guided me to continue my study of the Russian language, history, politics and economics
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory?
I have a beautiful family that includes my wife of 42 years (Terry), 37-year-old daughter (Erin) and 27-year-old son (Ned). Proud of all of them for being thoughtful and caring human beings
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Brian Higgins
Southern Illinois University- Edwardsville (BA Mass Communications and Marketing) University of Denver (JD)
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
Made my living in the Healthcare IT space focused on the development and delivery of innovative computer software that facilitated hospital business and clinical processes. I moved to academia late in my career in order to expose young people to the art and science of "salesmanship " Spent 10 years building an innovative curriculum of "professional selling" at the University of Colorado. Retired with "emeritus" status in 2024. Have lived in Boulder, CO for more than 40 years. Love the outdoors lifestyle that Colorado affords us; lots of golf in the summer and skiing in the winter.
Dick Keefe and Ebbie Dunn were both instrumental in my SLUH experience. Each one was a great example of " men for others" with an abundance of character, integrity and humility
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory?
My fondest memory of SLUH was playing in the Missouri State Soccer championship game(s) in 1974 We lost to McCluer North in a replay after the first game remained tied when darkness made it impossible to continue. The support we got from our classmates was unbelievable. Great team! Great class! Great school!
Dennis Jansen
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My spouse of 47 years is Debra (Hennessey) Jansen, also of St. Louis. We married in 1978 and have 3 daughters, all currently residing in Texas Our 5 grandchildren range in age from 8 to 16.
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
St. Louis University, UG degrees in Economics and in Mathematics, 1978. University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, PhD in Economics, 1983.
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
I have worked at Texas A&M since 1983, with leaves of absence at the FRB-St. Louis, at I.U. - Bloomington, at NC State, and as a Fulbright Scholar at National U of Ireland-Galway I have also taught summer classes at K U - Leuven, at Erasmus U Rotterdam, at Limburg U. - Maastricht, at the U of Korea, and at Southwestern Univ of Finance and Econ in Chengdu China. I have directed the dissertations of over 45 students who have taken jobs in academia, government, and in the private sector in the US and around the world. My hobbies include reading, bicycling, and hiking. My extended family takes an annual trip to the mountains for a vacation, usually in Colorado
Mr Vitale is probably my favorite I took economics from him for two years, and this exposure to the field led to my career as an economist Fr Valiquette taught me several important life lessons as well as physics, and he presided over my wedding ceremony in College Church at St Louis University Fr Bailey and I had little direct interaction, but he was directly responsible for my ability to attend SLUH
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory?
Daughter Madeline Gaggins lives with husband and two grandsons ages 2 and 5 in Pasadena, CA, 100 miles away. I visit every other weekend.
Daniel Kohm
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Tulane University, BS, 1978. Saint Louis University Medical School, MD, 1983. Georgetown University Hospital, 1983–1988 Internship/Residency: Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology and Hepatology University of Florida, Jacksonville, 1988–1989 Advanced Fellowship/Junior Attending of Medicine.
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
Major hobby over the last four decades has been gardening fostered by the famous MO Botanical Garden.
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory?
Frank Gold SJ, took four of us to Denver the summer after sophomore year Saw Dan Fogelberg at Red Rocks Canyon Amphitheater
I have been married for 37 years to Maureen (Mo). We are blessed to have 2 kids, Megan & Kevin. It is great to have them both living in CA. Megan is with us in San Ramon while Kevin is in Los Angeles The person I am most proud of is my wife She battled Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma for 2 years and just celebrated the10th anniversary of her stem cell transplant.
Andy Leeker
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Rollins College, Winter Park, FL - Business Administration ‘79 Pepperdine University, Malibu, CA - Masters in Business Administration ‘86
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
I worked in the beverage industry 35+ years for Gallo Wines, Pepsi-Cola & AnheuserBusch. I have lived in California for over 33 years. Name any city in California and I have either lived or worked there I met my wife in Redondo Beach After my wife’s illness, we made the conscious decision for me to retire and enjoy more time together. I enjoy golfing, bike riding, hiking, and walking. Achievements: All American Soccer ’78, USA Soccer-World University Games ‘79, and Rollins College Hall of Fame ‘92
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
Mr.Gold was my freshman homeroom moderator and the start to my SLUH education
Mr. Keefe gave numerous insights and direction in choosing a college and furthering my career goals
Mr. Stevison’s typing class and the potential of getting whacked with his oversized ring
Mr Vitale check writing/balancing a check book, who knew that most transactions would be done online today
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory?
Varsity Soccer ‘75
4 yrs of hearing “nickel”
Truly, as I look back at my SLUH education, it was the foundation for all my success
Anne (Mueller) and I have been married 45 years. We have one
Rett Lewis
Tell us about your family today
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
Been working 52 years now, striping lines since my sophomore year Most proud of painting the sporting events for the ‘96 Olympics in Atlanta, plus hundreds of artificial turf football fields around our beautiful country
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
I really enjoyed Fr Mateoni’s personality/Latin class I have fond memories of working my way through SLUH, vacuuming the chapel every morning before school started, mowing the hill of the football field every Monday in the summer (present day bleachers), excavating Fr Hagan’s new Rifle Range office with pickaxes, shovels and wheelbarrows
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory?
son, Everett Lewis IV, graduated from SLUH in ‘05.
I never married. I was travelling too much to settle down. Worked for PwC and worked in 46 states in three years.
David Makarewicz
I'm proud to be the 11th of 14 from the Makarewicz family who graduated from SLUH. We had someone enrolled nearly continuously for 65 years. Great tradition Great education
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University of Missouri for an Accounting Degree Graduated Two additional years of undergraduate work to complete the Management Information Systems degree program
Worked for PwC Consulted at 30 companies over 30 years
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
I survived a freak accident six years ago. I spent five days in intensive care. I prayed to stay alive I promised God that if I lived to Saturday, I would help others I've been buying canes, crutches and wheelchairs for others who are less fortunate
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
Father Hagan Charlie Busenhart Father Ralph Renner
Father Hagan once said that the three most powerful forces in the universe were God, Gravity and Motherhood They were all powerful They were all mysterious They all can act upon you powerfully, even from a long distance
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory?
My wonderful wife, Susan, and I have been married for 41 years, and we have two children, Davis (30) and Marika ( 26) Both speak fluent Spanish, which has helped them immensely in their careers. I started learning Spanish 20 years ago, but have not attained fluency yet I am grateful to Frs Kellett and Mattione for teaching Latin, which helped me learn the structure of Spanish
Tell us about your family today.
U of Kansas, BFA, 1981
Richard Marklin
The Ohio State U., 1988 (MS) and Ph.D. (1991) Industrial and Systems Engineering
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
I have traversed the full visual art--math/science continuum in the last 50 years I started off at the extreme end of the visual arts at Mizzou (1 year), aspiring to be a painter or sculptor That lasted one year, and then I studied industrial design (product design) at U of Kansas, which employs the visual arts but is more practical After 4 years at IBM as a product designer, I decided to enter graduate engineering and studied ergonomics/human factors engineering I stayed for a Ph D and then taught at Marquette University in the Dept of Mechanical Engineering for 30 years I retired in 2021, and we moved to Asheville, NC two years ago. I am fully immersed in the visual arts in Asheville, mostly ceramics During the last 15 years in Milwaukee, I taught STEAM (STEM with Art) to students ranging from kindergarten to college The purpose of teaching STEAM to grade school children, particularly students from low income families, was to encourage them to pursue careers in STEM
Thomas Becvar, math teacher. I was really into the platonic solids (cube, tetrahedron, octahedron, dodecahedron and icosahedron), and I wanted to calculate the compound angles in 3d space. I asked Mr. Becvar for help with the calculations, and he said that was not practical and that I should cut the planes out of paper or wood and then assemble them I also really appreciated Fr Doyle, art teacher
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory?
I have lived a long and happy life with my lovely wife Angela
Kirk Markuly
USAFA then SIUE - two BAs.
Tell us about your family today.
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
Worked in the family business until we closed down - had a successful business life in IT afterwards. Angela and I have had several health hurdles we managed to climb over with our Father's grace & blessings Moved over to Illinois 20+ years ago to live in the country, but moving back to Missouri soon to spend the rest of retirement
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
Too long a list to incorporate the numerous impactful students\people; I would be here for days. I can epitomize my time at SLUH easily: an incredible rite of passage. I've had a very fulfilling life, but at no time did I experience the personal growth, human awareness and "faith filled" scholarship provided by SLUH in likened measure.
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory?
Bill McCalpin
Tell us about your family today.
3 children: 2 sons and one daughter Only one is married He and his wife have given me the joy of a 5-month old grandson Very proud of all of my children and daughter-inlaw -- who they have become and what they are contributing to the world.
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
Undergraduate at Williams College in Massachusetts. Law school at Boston College.
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
A lot of moving around! College in Massachusetts followed by 2 years in Hong Kong Law school in Boston, 7 years in New York, 7 years in Chicago, 15 years in Connecticut, 9 years in San Francisco, and most recently 3 years in Los Angeles. Hope that adds up to close to 50 years! More than two decades working for a couple of endowed philanthropic foundations. Many years in the investment management/financial services sector. Now running an early stage, organic food business focused on gut health. Not exactly a linear path!
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory?
Many great teachers during the 4 years at SLUH The ones I remember best are Fr Kellett, Becvar, Schulte, Fr Distler A favorite memory is Fr Kellett’s first period Latin class freshman year in home room 105. He places his lit cigarette on the edge of the desk. We all watch it burn and wonder when the ash is going to drop to the floor Teachers smoking in class a different era!
St Louis University Bachelor degree chemistry, minor business administration, 1980 NBA 1984
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
Responsible for sales in North America, spent extensive time in Europe, working for a Swiss company, avid golfer, lifelong Cardinal fan. Played Santa Claus annually for a local charity, annual Girl Scout cookie event, Sisters of Mercy convent
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
Father Kellett, Father Hagan, Charlie Busenhart, Mr. Becvar, Mr. Conway, Father Damien, Joe Vitale, Nick Otten
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory?
I am currently married with four children and four grandchildren
Mike McVoy
Marquette University
Tell us about your family today.
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
After graduating from Marquette business and law schools, I worked as assistant district attorney for Winnebago County, Wisconsin and, after a brief period in private practice, I joined First Wisconsin Trust Company as a lawyer in their mutual funds division. I took on relationship manager and compliance roles and, after 9/11, I helped draft our first AML program and our first compliance program and was promoted to Chief Compliance Officer. I took up playing racquetball in college and played in many tournaments over a period of twenty years or so. I also took up running marathons and ended up running 25 of them including Boston We attend St. Anthony’s Church, and I have done visitation ministry through their program. My wife and I are retired and enjoy travel, reading and walking half marathons and other shorter distances
Father Hagan
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory?
Tim Miller
Tell us about your family today.
Therese and I have 3 sons and 4 grandchildren. Oldest son (Tim) has successful political podcast (The Bulwark) Middle son (Paul) works for Regis Jesuit in Denver Youngest son (Mark) getting PhD in mental health Grandkids are Louie, Toulouse, Teddy, and Sloane.
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
St. Mary's University in Texas then graduated from SLU. MBA at UMSL. CFA.
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
Lovely wife Therese for 46 years is sister of our classmate Steve Saffa We moved to Denver in 1992 Primary hobbies are cycling and snowboarding----have cycled some of the epic climbs of the Tour de France and Italy. Have used my SLUH Spanish for years on many trips Currently on the Board of Escuela de Guadalupe and involved with Holy Family Parish in Denver
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory?
Fr. Kellet for Latin and Mr. Becvar. Favorite memories from senior year basketball team---great teammates
Attended University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC) Combined BA/MD six-year medical program, where I received my BA degrees in Economics and Biology, as well as my MD degree in 1981. Lived through my internship at Mercy Medical Center in Denver, CO, then matriculated through the now Bloomberg School of Public Health at The Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, where I received my Masters of Public Health degree and finished my Preventive Medicine Residency.
Mark Mitchell
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
After my education, I went back to Kansas City to become the Deputy Director of Health in 1985. I then moved to my current home in Hartford, CT to become the Director of the Hartford Health Department from 1991 to 1995 After leaving the Hartford Health Department, I started the first environmental justice organization in Connecticut in 1998, the Connecticut Coalition for Environmental Justice. We had chapters in Hartford, Bridgeport and New Haven, although we were active statewide We were very successful in getting policy and laws passed in the early 2000s, including work on asthma, diesel emissions, and trash incineration. We also passed the state's first environmental justice law in 2008
In 2011, I left CCEJ to start my own consulting firm and consulted with EJ organizations across the U S I then started working with the National Medical Association, the organization of African American physicians, to educate and advocate for environmental health as Chair of the Environmental Health Task Force, which eventually became the constitutionally mandated Council on Environmental Health and Climate Change. In 2017, I accepted a position that was created for me at George Mason University, which is a Virginia state university just outside of Washington, DC, although I worked remotely from my home in Hartford (before it was fashionable). I was Associate Professor of Climate Change, Energy & Environmental Health Equity. There I helped found the Medical Society Consortium on Climate and Health and worked to expand their state health professional network from 3 states to 25 states. I also founded the Climate and Health Equity Fellowship (CHEF) Program in 2021, a program to train physicians of color to become national leaders on climate and health equity This again was very successful, and now has more than 40 graduates in its fifth year of operation. I retired from GMU and now work in Connecticut on building a new generation of environmental justice activists.
The most influential teacher was my accounting teacher, although I don't remember his name. He made me love accounting. I loved being in plays including "The Me Nobody Knows," thanks to Mr Schulte My favorite day was the day that I woke up and decided that I was going to stop trying to please others and do what I wanted to do to fight injustice. This turned out to make me relatively popular, especially among those who did not fit in I was elected to Student Council and became an officer
Mark Mitchell
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory?
Thomas Molina
Tell us about your family today
Married to wife Jeanine for 41 years Have two daughters, Amber and Ashley, who are both happily married.
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
University of Missouri-Columbia
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
Worked in the Commercial Real Estate arena in Toledo, Chicago, Indianapolis and Carmel Love traveling to the National Parks with the girls.
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory?
Richard Keefe, Thomas Becvar and Charlie Busenhart Football games, Water Polo and Mr Karduck's biology classes
Jerry Moore
Tell us about your family today.
My wife Ellen Byron and I have been married for 31 years, and our daughter Eliza is 25. Ellen is from New York and is a graduate of Tulane University She wrote for network television for over 20 years and currently is writing two humorous mystery book series Eliza survived growing up in Los Angeles only to graduate from Loyola University New Orleans during the Covid epidemic Currently, she freelances as a social media consultant Our fourth rescue family dog is Cammie, a super-mutt
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
I am a graduate of the Marquette University College of Journalism with a Film minor. Junior year I was a Photography Co-Editor of the university semi-weekly Senior year I was the Associate Editor on the university yearbook
Some years later I attended graduate school in Film Production at Loyola University in Los Angeles And finally, I was a graduate candidate in Information Technology - Business Analysis at Los Angeles City College.
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
1975 was the last time I lived in Saint Louis. That July, my father’s job and my family were relocated to Fort Smith, Arkansas In August, it was off to Milwaukee to begin college
Spurred by the JFK assassination and the birth of the counter-culture, I entered Marquette’s College of Journalism Rather than summer in Fort Smith, I spent my first three college summers working in a Milwaukee steel mill While in college, I heard Dick Gregory speak and spoke with Carl Bernstein. However, the idealism of college photojournalism quickly faded to the reality of making a living
My college photography portfolio garnered me a position as a photographer in the Chicago area Eventually I had some “stringer” assignments for the AP and UPI wire services I made a short industrial film about the building of a roller coaster Then reality struck again I was laid off and my apartment was robbed. I took those events as a sign to pursue my interest in film.
Jerry Moore
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
A Chicago film producer hired me to work with L A production companies there on location With friends, I lived 4 blocks from Wrigley Field I worked on two comedy shorts with the legendary Del Close and had more than enough time with Chicago Teamsters. It became time to move to Los Angeles
In L.A., I worked in film production, but after having done all that photographic and short film work, I wanted to make a film of my own I began graduate film school but then experienced the saying, “filmmaking is an expensive hobby ” To support myself, I switched to work on the business side of the film industry. Over the years, I worked at Paramount, Universal, Spelling, Screen Actors Guild, and others
I still have the letter from 1971 SLUH sent to our parents explaining why they would be offering their sons a Film Study course as part of the new Freshman Humanities Program I didn’t get that elective and have wondered “what if,” but SLUH helped me get into the film industry anyway.
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory?
No favorite since there were so many great teachers I loved being surrounded by so much knowledge They say intelligence can be sexy You might say SLUH seduced me intellectually, and we had a wonderful affair.
My favorite memory is having gone to SLUH I was bullied in parochial school, but SLUH required me to think for myself. It was the invitation to the rest of my life. My parents, who made it possible, and SLUH gave me the confidence and education to continue that journey on my own
University of Missouri at St Louis
Steve Morgan
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
In my 37-year career with Wonder-Hostess, I lived in Tulsa, Memphis, Chicago, Douglas MA, Dallas and Kansas City. In Kansas City I moved to Packaging Products Corp as CFO/Investor, when we sold to Morgan Stanley in 2018, I retired About a year ago I moved to a retirement community, Latitude Margaritaville, in Daytona Beach.
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
Mr Vitale, his economics class was a very good basis for a career in business. It's hard to pick just one, and I don't remember who it was, but one of the classmates called the typing teacher Mr Keebler (his nickname) rather than Mr Stevison Definitely a pin- drop moment.
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory?
I have 3 children The oldest has downs syndrome The other two are married, and my son has 2 children, and my daughter has 1
Tom Ortmann
UMSL
Tell us about your family today
Started my own company, and that keeps me very busy
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
Tie between Mr. Keefe and Mr. Becvar
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory?
I've been married for 41 years to Carol Descutner, who grew up near Utica, NY We met at Mizzou in 1982 when she was a clinical psychology grad student, and I was an engineering undergrad. We've lived just outside of Buffalo, NY for 30 years. We raised two daughters, Katie and Joanna, and have two granddaughters from Katie, aged 3 and 6 The kids and grandkids currently live in Saratoga Springs and Albany, NY.
Tell us about your family today.
John Ostroot
I attended University of Missouri - Columbia from 1980 to 1983, after finishing my Navy enlistment, and graduated with a BS in mechanical engineering.
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
I promptly enlisted in the US Navy a couple weeks after finishing at SLUH, mostly as a break from studying (?) My rating was Quartermaster, which in the navy specializes in navigation. This adventure included months-long trans-Atlantic tows on an ocean tug and helping recover a sunken F-14 Tomcat north of Scotland. On aircraft carrier USS Nimitz, I appeared in a couple of short background scenes in The Final Countdown (1980, with Kirk Douglas, Martin Sheen, et al.). In the spring of 1980, we launched the ill-fated rescue mission to get hostages out of Iran.
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
After finishing college, I ended up being somewhat restless, having eight mechanical engineering jobs in 38 years before retiring in 2022. After moves from Columbia, MO to Highland Park, NJ and Rochester, NY, we settled just outside of Buffalo, NY in Williamsville. Finally finding my niche, I ended up with 22 years at a pressure relief valve manufacturer (Flow Safe Inc.). However, Navy life never completely went away, as in 2013 I spent a year helping oversee the building of main steam condensers for the next USS John F. Kennedy (CVN-79) at a local heat exchanger company.
John Ostroot
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? [cont )
Our family has fortunately enjoyed good health, and we ' ve traveled to many interesting places, some involving cruise ships (of course) Buffalo is a great place to raise a family, and as I write this, we ' ve never seen a temperature of 100F. After running seven marathons in the 1980's, I've tried to keep up with distance running but am taking it much easier these days
Wouldn't you know that Buffalo has a nice naval park down on the river near Lake Erie, with three WWII-era warships I'm in my third year of volunteering as a docent, where I get to tell sea stories and talk to people from all over the world.
Having family in Saratoga Springs has the side benefit of them living within walking distance of the race track. Not a high roller, I decided to forgo the Belmont Stakes that was held there the last two times.
Tie between Mr. Keefe, and Mr. Becvar. Almost all the teachers at SLUH were excellent, and I enjoyed the whole experience Those that stood out would include Mr Schulte, who challenged me with some extra-curricular math studies For some reason, every so often I can't get the following words from Father Wayne's religion class out of my head: "Molina did you READ the text? Hmmmm?"
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory?
Joe Palumbo
Tell us about your family today.
My wife Debbie (Keeven) and I have been married 44 years and have three wonderful children Joe, SLUH '04, is an attorney Along w/ Kiley, they have blessed us w/ 2 grandkids Big brother Domenic is 3 & Gianna is 8 months Domenic, '06, gave us 30 years of memories. He left us too soon. We miss him, but he still makes us laugh. Tori is a "Teacher of the Year" at Ladue MS I get to walk her down the aisle next year Lucky Nick! Debbie and I are proud of every one of them!!!
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
From Oakland Ave, I made the trek to Grand Ave and Saint Louis University More Jesuit influence...and I'm Catholic. I went from grade school in Dogtown, to the "U High," to "the University," a 4 to 5 mile sojourn depending on the route. Do you realize that most of us graduated from grade school, high school and college all in the 70's?
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
I will sum up the past 50 years this way A lot has happened Most of it good Over those years, I always had the BEST answer to "Where did you go to high school?” I'll make it short but sweet. They started when Larry Walsh and I left Dogtown for SLUH in the fall of 1971 following our older brothers down Oakland Ave He's the one who told me, "We're going to SLUH Where else is there?" 50 years later, Larry was right SLUH, where else? He is still a friend one of numerous "Blue Buddies" and Redel and Sidlo are still taking my money on the golf course 50 years later
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory?
How can you pick one teacher? Fr Kellett, Ebbie Dunn, Ralph Houlihan Dick Keefe was a favorite, and I never even had him for class!
Lots of memories as well Some in school, others out of school
I am very blessed. I married a wonderful person 42 years ago, Vicki, who is full of energy, with lots of different interests, nutrition, cooking, St. Gerard Parish, grandkids, golf, pickleball and is a great business partner We have 3 great kids (Gen, Joe, and Mary) and 4 grandchildren, all live in St Louis and we are fortunate to see them all frequently.
Tell us about your family today
Carl Ratermann
University of Missouri-St Louis
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
After 10 years in corporate life, I told Vicki that I would like to start our own company, a food-brokerage company, and she said " go for it." We worked side by side in our basement for the first 8 years building the company When I was out selling, she cared for the 3 young children and handled customer service, often having to turn off the washer or dryer to answer the phone and take an order. The business has steadily grown over the last 35 years, and today we have offices in St Louis, Kansas City and Springfield, MO. Recently, my son Joe took over the company, and I semi retired.
We have been very engaged at St. Gerard Majella in Kirkwood thru the years. Currently, Vicki and I run the Lenten fish fry which serves 1200-1500 meals weekly. I am fortunate that Vicki enjoys golf as much as I do, so we play a lot together, and we recently joined Norwood Hills CC. For me, life has been a great journey, an between my faith, my family, and my work life, I truly feel very blessed.
Married for 42 years to my wife Candice.
One daughter Stephanie married to Joseph Scott SLUH class of 2004, they have 2 sons, Elijah 5 years old and Abram 2 years old, they live here in St Louis
Ken Redel
One son Jake married to Jessica Ferraro, no children, they live in a suburb of Cleveland, Ohio
Tell us about your family today
St Louis University for 2 years, then Electrical Workers Local #1 for 2.5 years
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
Born, raised and still living in the St. Louis area. Worked in the electrical construction industry for 40 years here in St. Louis, retired in September of 2018. My wife and I are 35-year members of Resurrection Lutheran Church in Sunset Hills, MO We enjoy playing golf, some light traveling, being with our children and our grandsons.
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
Favorite teacher, Mr William Karduck, biology teacher Too many good memories to single out just one!
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory?
We have one daughter, Lilly, who is the light of our world
Ed Relling
Missouri Baptist College
Tell us about your family today.
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
I worked 43 years at the same location In 2017, I was elected in the St Louis Amateur Baseball HOF. Current interests include playing baseball and basketball.
Mr. Becvar
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory?
I've been married 42 years to Cynthia, whom I met while in law school at the University of Virginia She was getting her masters in Speech Pathology which became her career path. We have 2 daughters, Susan and Claire. Susan and her husband live about 2 miles away and have 2 daughters Claire and her husband live 4 houses away, and they have 2 sons
Tom Ryan
Tell us about your family today
I went to Dartmouth College in Hanover, NH after SLUH. It was an amazing experience The highlights were the soccer team and doing foreign study in the Soviet Union (while there, former SLUH Russian teacher, George Morris, visited with me while I took classes at Leningrad State University).
I then went to the University of Virginia for law school Charlottesville, Virginia is very different than Hanover, NH but they are both beautiful college towns, and I loved them both.
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
I had only one job in my post school life --- I was hired in 1982 by the Lathrop law firm in Kansas City, and retired from there 12/31/2000. I think practicing law can be stressful, but for the most part, I really enjoyed it I practiced environmental law and got to travel the country working with exceptionally smart people I'm very thankful for (almost) all of my partners and clients.
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
Grandparenting has been a huge part of retired life, as we try to assist our working mom daughters/ sons-in-law raise their 9, 6, 5 and 3-year-old kids I'm not sure if they are keeping me young or killing me, but I do love it. Between that, several charitable efforts, golf (not sure why I seem to be gettng worse!), seeing friends, travel and reading, retirement life is amazing I'm still a crazy sports fan and, from KC, closely follow the Blues and Cards. I also love the Chiefs, Royals and University of Kansas basketball
Tom Becvar. I thought he employed the perfect combination of fun and business. His stats class was one of my favorites, including college and law school as well So many great memories but many of them involved soccer What a tight squad we had, with great leadership from Tom Meyer and Ty Keough. (Still bummed we lost in the championship game!)
Tom Ryan
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory?
I feel so lucky to have attended SLUH. A belated thanks to so many of my classmates who provided friendship during those formative years
Wife Cheryl of 43 wonderful years
3 boys who are happily married
Ralph Salamie
Washington University
Tell us about your family today.
46 years as a civil engineer managing major bridge infrastructure projects across the country
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
Married to my wife Debbie for 45 years We have two sons, Dave (SLUH '99) and Steve (SLUH '02) of whom we are most proud. The Sanders Gang now includes six grandchildren; all live in the St. Louis metro area, so we attend a lot of youth sports events
Tell us about your family today
Jim Sanders
All of my higher education was at St Louis University - business school, then law school, then back to business for an MBA. Happy to say, there were SLUH '75 classmates at each point along the way.
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
Work has been in corporate law which enjoyably took me to many places in the business world Home life always has been in St Louis, with lots of coaching boys' sports and keeping up with extended family. Golf has been a consistent hobby; with a new hip this year, I'm hoping to return to snow skiing Seeing our children grow into responsible men and caring fathers definitely is our highest achievement
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
Father Distler (the man who knew everything) for junior/senior Latin and Mr. Schulte (Calculus with the energy of Theater) were my most memorable teachers. That level of wonder and discovery in higher learning always stuck with me Favorite SLUH memory undoubtedly was our senior year soccer journey that took us to a memorable state final - the most engrossing and meaningful group endeavor of my life with the best group of men I'll ever have the privilege of calling teammates
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory?
Married to a wonderful man, together for 23 years.
Larry Schlitt
St. Louis University for undergraduate and Georgetown University for medical school.
Tell us about your family today
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
Family Physician for 36 years in private practice, volunteer instructor for medical students and residents at UCSD School of Medicine, volunteer during COVID for San Diego Public Health, 8 years in US Navy Reserves as Battalion Surgeon for the 4th Tank Battalion at Camp Pendleton, discharged as Lt. Commander in the Navy. Now enjoying retirement with travel abroad and domestically in an RV
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
Mr. Becvar was top notch teacher with fond memories of Doc Robinson, Fr. Valiquette, Fr O’Brien, Mr Calacci, Mr Joe Schulte, and others I remember the excitement of my first day at SLUH when the Senior class had an open house introducing us as Freshmen to the collegial environment at SLUH. It was crazy (one senior held a new freshman upside down out of a third story window) but also great fun And who could forget Fr Hagan’s Freshman Picnic with the giant ball in Tower Grove Park!
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory?
John Schranck
Frannie (Francine Woelfle) and I were married in 1982 and have 3 children. John Jr. ('03) has a PhD in Comparative Literature and teaches at U C Santa Barbara Chris ('06) lives in Brentwood and is an internet broadcast entertainer. Elizabeth is a singer/songwriter (Lizzie Weber) living in U. City, and is married to Brian Hartwig ('06), a former Navy Top Gun Instructor now working at Boeing Defense
Tell us about your family today
I graduated with a B A in Spanish Literature and a Masters Certificate in International Development from University of Missouri-Columbia in 1979 I earned an MBA in 1985 from The Olin School of Business at Washington University in St. Louis.
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
I worked in brand management and trade marketing in the consumer packaged goods industry (Pet Incorporated, Conagra, Pillsbury, Ralcorp, Aurora Foods) for 20 years Since then, I have worked in a consulting and business management capacity, primarily with and for orthopedic surgeon groups and imaging centers as well as with SPIRITT Research, my wife's medical research company.
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
I am an avid golfer, working hard to return to form since open heart surgery in late 2022. My wife and family, and above all, God's grace, got me through and back to good health Call me if you want to play
Many of my favorite SLUH memories go back to freshman year in 101, where we quickly became new friends with guys from all over the area, from Granite City to Chesterfield We laughed with and at each other incessantly, but each day in 101 started with friendly greetings: "Morning, Breeden...Morning, Harrison...Morning Hart...Morning, Heagney...Morning, Sullivan...Morning Tryniecki..."
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory?
Who else remembers their locker combinations (0-25-34 and 2-26-37) and 1st driver’s license (S03288503973544)?
Pete Schreiner
Married 44 years to Patty Three children - Peter is a technician working for a BMW dealership in Dayton, OH with 1 son, Ian (oldest grandchild). Andy is a diagnostic radiologist at The Cleveland Clinic with four children - Anya, Avery, Addison, and Aiden Alyssa is a Kroger Store Manager living in Lebanon, TN We're most proud that the kids are employed, successful, healthy, don't live at home, and talk to us on a regular basis
Tell us about your family today
Received my Undergraduate in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Michigan and MBA at Indiana University I hold six (6) patents on automotive brake & system design. I've taught International Business Management at the college level and traveled extensively I'm currently on the Board of Directors of the Aviation Distributors & Manufacturers Association
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
I've worked in seven (7) different industries over a 45-year career, including automotive, power tools, gas & arc welding equipment, capital equipment, HVAC, motors, and general aviation I currently work out of our house in Webster for Lycoming Engines, whose manufacturing plant is located in Williamsport, PA. I get to travel wherever and whenever I want working with customers and developing strategic plans for growth
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
Mr Becvar (Math) was a great inspiration in developing a base in math and organization Mr Raterman & Mr Conley (English) were very formidable in helping me develop a love for reading, spelling, grammar, etc. I transferred to SLUH from Brother Rice HS in Birmingham, MI halfway through our Sophomore year Talk about a challenging transition!! My classmates at SLUH were extremely welcoming, and I developed great friends in no time. I'll always be grateful for the way I was welcomed at SLUH
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory?
Linda and I have been married 42 years. Our son Joe and daughter-in-law Jenna have 3 children: Michael 14, McKenzie 12 and Mabrey 8. Our daughter Gina and son-in- law
Mike Sharamitaro
Tim have 2 children: Jane 11 and Dominic 8
Our children and grandchildren have been a great blessing to us.
Tell us about your family today
I graduated from UMR with a Civil Engineering degree
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
Linda and I attend the Grant's Trail campus of the Crossing Church. We have lived in 7 houses McCarthy projects include BJC, MEMC, St John's Heart Hospital, Lumiere Casino and Conoco Phillips We have traveled to many National Parks: Yellowstone, Mt Rushmore, the Badlands, Devils Tower, Arches, Canyonlands, Bryce, Zion, Grand Canyon, Acadia, Smoky Mountains
We did a Rhine River cruise (Amsterdam to Basil), cruised around Iceland and cruised the Adriatic Sea (Greece, Croatia, Venice).
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
The main hobby Linda and I enjoy is golf, mainly around St Louis but have also taken golf trips to Birmingham, AL, Charleston, SC, Boyne Falls, MI, and Lake Geneva, WI
I will never forget Fr. Vonderhaar and his ability to draw perfect circles or Ebbie Dunn's trigonometry class as one of the smallest freshmen in a room full of juniors
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory?
Married in 1997 to Mary Mohan. 3 children: Kate, Joe (Class of 2000) and Lucy. Kate is a hotel marketing manager in Honolulu HI Joe and Lucy reside in St Louis Joe is a Captain in the USAF stationed at Scott AFB. Lucy is an account manager for a local facilities firm.
Phil Sidlo
Tell us about your family today.
Attended UMSL Graduated with a Business degree
Worked various jobs before being hired at McDonnell Douglas, now Boeing, in 1985. Retired after 37 years in 2022. Have lived all my life in the St Louis area currently in Kirkwood since 2009
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
Since retirement I enjoy golf, volunteering and travel with my wife. We are especially enjoying visiting national parks. Weekend golf includes classmates Joe Palumbo and Ken Redel
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
Favorite teacher Dick Keefe. Favorite Jesuit Ralph Houlihan. I enrolled at SLUH after my freshman year after Augustinian Academy closed The 3 years at SLUH have been some of the best years of my life.
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory?
Married for 44 years to a saint 4 daughters, all married, 12 grandkids on the ground, 1 in Heaven Proud of all of them
John Sinclair
Tell us about your family today
Ha! Wash U - they said good-bye after 2 yrs. Mizzou 1 year - same result. Maryville 1 year - no diploma Not sure if that counts as education?
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
Selling cars still Married in ‘81 to Sue Watched 4 great daughters grow up, enjoying success in biz & family life. Much credit goes to Sue. Ride horses with grandkids. Vitae Society board of directors
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
Teacher - Dr. Robinson
Memory the time Fr Bailey told my Dad if I would concentrate, my report card would resemble oldest brother’s (all A’s) Not a great memory but memorable
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory?
Wife, 12-year-old daughter, 7-year-old son. (I got a late start).
John Sommers
Mizzou, UMSL
Tell us about your family today.
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
Working in science fields. Biology, Chemistry, Math, Environmental Science, Water Purification
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
Randy Tiffin
Tell us about your family today
I am now retired. My wife Lorraine and I were married in 1985. I have three adult children They are all working and living outside the St Louis area
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
University of Missouri Rolla (Science and Technology)
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
I was able to stay in the St Louis area. My family has been blessed with good health, and we love the outdoors, travel, hiking etc. I retired in 2021. One of my daughters lives in San Francisco, another is in Indiana, and my son lives in Virginia This has added to our travels! My work life taught me a lot about construction of all types-I've always been very hands-on. I still use those skills helping everyone in my extended family with repair projects or advice
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory?
Favorite teachers that come to mind: Fr. Conroy, Mr. Keefe, Fr. Hagan
Girlfriend and two boys, my sister's five children
Gregg Vinciguerra
Meramec Jr. College
Tell us about your family today
Nothing to see here, blah blah blah
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
John Walsh
Tell us about your family today
My wife, Mary, and I were married in 1982, initially residing in Brentwood, and subsequently have lived in Kirkwood for the past 34 years. We have 4 children (one deceased) and 2 grandsons Both of our daughters married SLUH graduates
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
I attended John Carroll University with SLUH classmates Jim Blase and Steve C onway I graduated in '79, they in '78 In 1990, I earned the Chartered Property and Casualty Underwriter (CPCU) designation from The American Institute for Property and Liability Underwriters.
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
Favorite? Wow! At the risk of evading the question, I (we?) was blessed with any number of talented, caring teachers and coaches, i e, Dunn, Vonderhaar, Kellett, Vitale, Martel, Raterman, Murphy.
Outside of serving as an independent insurance Producer for the past 46 years, I coached numerous youth sports teams for my children, was the President of the Parish Council of St. Gerard Majella Parish and served on the SLUH Alumni Board of Directors for 20 years, ending my Board tenure as President in 2000
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory?
Divorced and never had kids, though I am an uncle dozens of times over...such is life when you are from a family of nine kids I would have to say, my siblings From the oldest Jim, retired commander of nuclear submarines to my sisters, Ginny, founder with me of Radio Free Nashville, an FM station in Nashville and serves on Metro Council Shelley, two term Mayor of U City who brought the city back from deficits to surplus! And the rest who have made their mark and changed the world in their way!
Tell us about your family today
Greg Welsch
Graduated University of Missouri, Columbia and later from Watkins Film School in Nashville. More recently I attended the Tom Todoroff Acting Conservatory in New York City
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
I lived for almost 3 years in Vienna, Austria where I worked as a musician and taught English as a foreign language. I am fluent in Spanish, German, and can get by in conversational Polish and French I returned to the states and lived in DC where I taught English and was the Director of Admissions at a proprietary school It was there I met my future and ex-wife, Carla, a Paraguayan national. (It was entirely professional I swear!) We moved to Nashville where I returned to the stage and ran an Equity waiver theater, the Actors Playhouse, as a Board member and later as an Executive Producer. In 1996, after the passage of the Telecommunications Act of 1996 and realizing the almost immediate corporate consolidation that ensued (we went from nearly 400 companies and are now at 6!), we applied for a low-power community radio license and founded Radio Free Nashville becoming the first Pacific Network affiliate in the southeast US We have a myriad of local programmers in all genres and run Pacifica programming as well, including Thom Hartmann, Democracy Now, Counterspin, and others. We are celebrating our 20th birthday this year having officially signed on 4/3/05 In 2009, I started as the Director of Video Services for Sole Supports, an orthotics company with a new biomechanical model of foot correction called Mass Posture. I produced videos, VOs and and travelled to Mexico on a number of occasions to produce a documentary, the Yucatan Crippled Children's Project
Greg Welsch
What have you been up to for the past 50 years? (Continued)
I retired from SS in October of 2023. I have been working as an actor touring and performing two one man shows, "An Evening with CS Lewis" and "A Christmas with CS Lewis" and toured with a British actor, David Payne playing JRR Tolkien to his CS Lewis in "Lewis and Tolkien." I also played Lewis' brother, Warnie, in the story of Lewis' American wife in "Weep for Joy " I made several trips to NYC to study at the Todoroff conservatory over the years I am looking forward to the 2025 CS Lewis Christmas tour!
While my love of languages came into focus at SLUH with the help of Mr Walker & Fr. Vogt, as well as, Mr. Schaedla who I would often practice Spanish with during Rec (Nerdly, I know!) I would have to say that, while I never took Calculus, which many have said was my loss, I think my favorite teacher, over all, would be Mr Schulte His incredible knowledge of the theater and demand always for your best, was life changing on so many levels and has stayed with me even until today. RIP, sir!
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory?
I'm proud of my 4 children and 6 (and a third) grandchildren. We've got one child in New York, one in Detroit, one in Chicago, and one getting the home front ready for us in St. Louis (they are out in Kirkwood - St. Peter's parish).
Peter Wendel
Tell us about your family today.
The University of Chicago for college; St Louis University for a Master's degree, and then back to the University of Chicago for Law School.
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
Teaching You don't make a lot of money teaching, but if you play your cards right, you can make some priceless memories (and see the world doing it) I've spent most of my career teaching law at Pepperdine University (in Malibu, CA), but I've had the honor of being a visiting professor at a number of schools - UCLA, Loyola of LA, Santa Clara, St Louis University, and Suffolk (my wife affectionately calls me " an academic whore"). I've taught in London three semesters, I taught a two-week intensive class in Lyon, France three times, and I've taught in a Summer School program in Augsburg, Germany for over 25 summers Lastly, I was a visiting Fellow at Cambridge University last year, a truly magical place. I had the honor of giving a talk that semester at Cambridge University, the Sorbonne in Paris, and UK Leuven in Belgium (one of the oldest Catholic Universities in the world) My most treasured achievement, however, is when my wife and I hiked the Camino de Santiago during the Summer of 2023 We hiked the less traveled Camino - the Camino Norte to Oviedo, and then the Primitivo across the mountains: 42 days, 525 miles, with more elevation change than hiking Mount Everest twice. An incredible experience that we'd recommend to anyone (and we'd be happy to share our itinerary if you are interested) It really is more manageable than it sounds - just keep each day's distance manageable. Last summer we started the French Camino in Le Puy, France. An equally moving and enjoyable experience (and the food is better ) We are spreading that hike out over a few summers God willing, we hope to hike the Italian Camino last (from the Alps to Rome). Oliver Wendell Holmes said it best, "A mind that is stretched by a new experience can never go back to its old dimensions "
SLUH was my first great experience That experience gave me the aptitude and appetite for other new experiences that have lasted a lifetime - just one of the many benefits of the SLUH education
Mr Becvar. My SLUH memory is when Mr. Becvar jugged me for throwing a paper airplane out the window during math class He didn't see it, but a school newspaper photographer who was visiting class that day caught it all on camera. All was fine until someone showed it on the wall at one of the school dances. Mr. Becvar was understandably embarrassed and angry, and I felt horrible Fortunately for me, his punishment was he bought a book on paper airplanes and made me make each one.
Peter Wendel
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory?
Frank Werner
Tell us about your family today
What a life to celebrate I have been married for 37 years to Sandi, the love of my life and best friend. We have a son Chase, 36 years old, who was recently married to Karla Mayo this past December. Also, my wife has a daughter, Michelle, and her husband Matt who we spend time visiting whether it is here or Springfield, IL to spend time with our granddaughters and great grandkids. Also, I am blessed to spend time with my siblings Jimmie, Tommie & Karol and their families and my wife's family.
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
Missouri S&T / University of Missouri Rolla - BS Engineering Management/Civil Engineering
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
Spent 40 years in the construction industry Started out with McCarthy in St Louis/Little Rock, AR as a Project/Field Engineer. Moved to Raleigh, NC for greener grass and opportunities Found my calling working for Adams/Oldcastle CRH for 33 years from Architectural Sales, Architectural Sales Manager, Director of Marketing, VP of Sales and finishing up as Director of Business Development. Moved to Raleigh, NC in 1984 and have spent more than half my life here Have enjoyed everything in NC from the mountains to the coast We split time between Raleigh and Wrightsville Beach and usually head south to Florida, Arizona or California for warmer weather in the winter. In retirement, I have all play hobbies-boating cycling, golfing, swimming and general overall fitness My wife and I love to travel to keep in touch with family and old friends and explore new places What I love about my life is no matter where my life has taken me, I have always kept in touch with family, friends-from grade school, high school & college, coworkers, clients and contacts Two of my lifetime friends, Bugs Moran since 2nd grade-SLUH 75 & Ralph Salamie SLUH 75, walked through the halls together at SLUH and every reunion since graduation We have been enjoying life together water skiing, snow skiing and golfing We are now up to 2 trips a year One of our friends noted that my wife commented on how I keep in touch with everyone, and our friend Lori told me my hobby is collecting people and friends
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory?
There were so many great teachers, but here are a few: Father Kellett, Mr. Dunn, Mr. Keefe, Mr Schulte & Father Bailey Of all the activities one of my favorites was bashball Some of my favorite memories were the social activities: Fall Frolics, Homecoming, Carnival, Ring Dance, Father-Son Banquet, Senior Prom & Senior Follies.
I married my wife, Teresa, in 1984 I have two children, Patrick and Carrie, and two grandkids, Chloe and Gage I am proud of all my family
John Wildgen
Tell us about your family today.
After SLUH I went to University of Missouri, Columbia. After graduation I went to University of Missouri Dental School in Kansas City. I received my DDS degree in 1982
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
After graduation, I joined the Army and was sent to Heidelberg, Germany. I met my wife in Germany and my son was born at the Heidelberg Military Hospital I was sent to the Army Advanced course in San Antonio after four and a half years in Germany. From San Antonio, I was sent to Fort Bragg in Fayetteville, North Carolina, my wife's home town I got out of the Army in 1988 and stayed in Fayetteville until I bought a dental practice in Laurie, MO. at the Lake of the Ozarks in 1991. I sold my practice in 2015 to Forum Dental and worked part time until I retired in 2019. I sold my house at the Lake of the Ozarks and moved to Republic, MO after I retired to be near my daughter, son-in-law, and grandkids. I kept a small lakeside apartment with a dock so I can still enjoy the lake in the summer. My wife and I are avid scuba divers and have been around the world diving My favorite dive destination is Lembeh Straits in Indonesia. In 2023, my daughter and son-in-law moved across the street, making it easy to spend a lot of time with my grandkids.
Charlie Busenhart is my favorite teacher. It's hard to pick one memory as a favorite. All my memories are positive.
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory?
Michael Woods
Tell us about your family today.
My wife and I raised two wonderful young men The oldest, Jason, is pursuing an actor's life. He's started producing commercials for the internet. The youngest, Ethan, is pursuing being an MRI technician I'm proud of both of them
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
After SLUH, I got my B.A. in Theater Arts from what was then called Webster College It's Webster University now
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
I've been an actor on a few TV shows (Hill Street Blues, Simon & Simon, Room 227, etc.). I was head of security for a celebrity actress. I was the first non-legal person embedded in a legal department at Warner Bros to handle legal invoices From starting as a temp, I grew that into worldwide responsibility I'm a husband, father, and mentor. I didn't realize cycling would be an expensive hobby.
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory?
My favorite SLUH teacher was Joe Schulte My favorite memory was the last day of school our senior year I walked outside to my car after my last exam I felt such exhilaration that high school was done.
Married to Susan (nee Nienkamp, Rosati grad, double degrees in Education & Nursing, retired), Son Caleb (US Marine & Correctional Officer), Son Frederick (degree in IT), Daughter Maria (Masters in Chemistry, BS in Pol Science). All married and have one grandson
John Yingling
Tell us about your family today.
Went to UMSL BSBA emphasis in Accounting CPA and CFP
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
Accounting, finance, tax, treasury career heavily into tech, science and drug development (with a side of retail and commodities)...Storz Instruments, Clayton Brokerage, Venture Stores, Certara, Enseo and a couple startups (animal ag and climate/ag)
Traveled extensively in Europe with a side in Japan.
Faith helped me to engage with diverse employee cultures and practices with open mind & heart
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
Hobby now is trail running. Did a lot of 5K's, 10K's and half marathons, but the payment caught up with my knees
Mr. Busenhart and Mr. Becvar come to mind as being most influential. The Jesuit mantra of " you have to decide for yourself" along with instruction to assess all views and information became a platform for my career and life
I remember standing outside the door on the first day of freshman year and thinking..."this is going to be interesting." And then standing in the same spot after g raduation mass and thinking "yep!"
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory?
Married to Nancy for 40 years, father of two wonderful daughters, Alli and Nina and Papa to four beautiful grandchildren, Eleanor, Milo, Genevieve and Frances Playing a little golf, a little soccer and hanging with the kiddos keep me busy in retirement.
Dave Zanaboni
Tell us about your family today.
St Louis University
Where did you go for education after SLUH?
40 plus year career in the food service industry with various companies Continue to live in south St. Louis. Coached CYC sports for over 20 years and still enjoy playing golf and soccer.
What have you been up to for the past 50 years?
Mr. Becvar was my favorite teacher and I had the opportunity to see him after 40 plus years at a SLUH soccer game in 2018 and, to my amazement, he remembered me after all that time and so many students!
Who is your favorite SLUH teacher? What's your favorite SLUH memory?
