A lifetime of connections

What are you grateful for?

We start each quarterly meeting with a gratitude exercise. This puts our hearts and minds in a space of gratefulness, and we’re reminded of the gifts and talents we bring back to our university. We listen with empathy and seek to understand.

I’m Kerry Edwards, a 2004 graduate and your current Alumni Board of Directors president. I recognize our alumni offer a great diversity of talents, skills, and abilities, which should be acknowledged and engaged to benefit one another, their communities, and Saint Mary’s. I’ve challenged our board to extend the challenge to other alumni to share their responses to this question, “What Saint Mary’s experiences helped develop the person I am today?”

Saint Marys empowered me to live a life of service and leadership — to lead by example and be an example in my community. One way we lead by example is hosting a service project at every meeting. Our projects have included packing hygiene products that we donated to the Wellness Center, collecting food for a Rochester food shelf, and wrapping toys for Toys for Tots.

When my wife and I had our daughter, it was a time of reflection for me. Who am I and what shaped my character? And what do I want for “my” next generation? To me, our success is measured by the fulfillment of the people we serve, and the communities we foster. The Saint Mary’s Fund is the heart and access for the next generation.

I’m fortunate to work for a company that helped me achieve financial clarity and contentment, which in turn, allows me to live generously. The organizations and causes we care about are different for everyone. But ask yourself, “What experiences helped develop the person I am today?” That is why I give back to Saint Mary’s.

I am most proud of our Alumni Board members for sharing their ‘Why Saint Mary’s’ stories on our social media channels. Please take note of these!

Lasallian Day of Service 2022 was a huge success! On Oct. 22, 2022, more than 150 students, staff, and alumni went out into their community to share their time as a part of Lasallian

Day of Service. Saint Mary’s was represented at service sites in 14 cities, five states, and two countries. An alumni board member also raised monetary donations to buy school supplies and traveled to Peru to deliver them to students. Their combined efforts totaled 450 hours of service, which included packing 8,500 meals (which will feed 20 children for a year); measuring, tagging, and shelving 1,000 pairs of jeans; donating $1,000 worth of household and school supplies as well as food; helping remove invasive species in the campus bluffs; and helping elderly community members and others in need with household chores.

Thank you to all who participated! We have a big role to play in telling our story to the world, sharing all that Saint Mary’s was, is, and will become. We are all Saint Mary’s storytellers.

Over 400 alumni and their families attended the 2022 Reunion Weekend from June 22-24, 2022. The full weekend of activities included the 50th anniversary dinner, alumni awards brunch, alumni BBQ dinner, as well as various tours and class specific events. Enjoying the alma mater banquet are, from left: Bernadette and Thomas B’67 Schaefer, Edward “Ed” Bock B’67, and John Hendele B’67.

Alumni returned to the Winona Campus in early fall to welcome first-year students during a “welcome home” BBQ.

On Sept. 27, 2022, alumni from Saint Mary’s and Winona State University gathered for an evening cruise on the Mississippi River. Two attendees included Heather (Kjome) Buege B’97 and Tracy (Trowbridge) Hale B’95, WSU’20, Winona State’s director of alumni engagement.

On Oct. 27, 2022, the Saint Mary’s Alumni and Benefactor Engagement team welcomed Saul Hernandez B’17 and Martin Quintana B’16 to Saint Mary’s Winona Campus to participate in a Hispanic Heritage Diversity Panel.

Upcoming Alumni Events

March 11

Cardinal Excellence

Fund Dinner and Hall of Fame

Ceremony

June 23-25

Reunion Weekend 2023

To see what’s coming up next, visit connect. smumn.edu/ events

The Saint Mary’s Alumni Board organized the annual Lasallian Day of Service on Oct. 22, 2022. On this day, alumni across the country gather together in the Lasallian spirit of service, to give their gift of time in their own communities. Lori Quinn B’80 (right) led a site at Feed My Starving Children in Schaumburg, Ill., that included, from left: John Cosgriff B’77, Larry Stephan B’70, Lynn Callahan B’80, Joe Quinn (husband of Lori Quinn B’80), Anna Pasteris B’80, and John Brady (husband of Kathleen (Richter) Brady B’84).

On Oct. 27- 28, 2022, the men’s hockey team celebrated the MIAC Championships of the 1964 and 1965 teams. The members of the team gathered back on campus for two days of activities. Attendees included, from left: Keith Hanzel B’59 (head coach), Brian Desbiens B’67, John Ulrich B’65, Bob Paradise B’66, Andre Beaulieu B’65, and Joseph Clarkin ’67.

On Dec. 30, 2022, 27 alumni and friends gathered at Old Irving Brewery prior to a men’s basketball game against North Park University. In an exciting win, Saint Mary’s hit a three-pointer a fraction of a second before the buzzer, 83 to 82. A few alumni cheering on the Cardinals (including several former basketball players) were, from left: Jeffrey Norris B’76; William Figel B’76; Bob Biebel B’79, M’07; Coach Joe Fano; Thomas Keenan B’68; John Richards B’76; and Terrance Cullen B’80.

1950s

Thomas “Tom” Sullivan B’57, Oak Lawn, Ill., was named St. Mel High School Man of the Year in June 2022.

1960s

Paul Magallanes B’63, Thousand Oaks, Calif., starred as Carlos Valdes in the Gaslit Watergate presentation on STARZ to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Watergate Burglary Case; it premiered on April 24, 2022.

Dennis “Denny” McNicholas B’69, Lombard, Ill., received the leadership and service award from Montini Catholic High School on April 30, 2022.

1980s

Matthew Hunckler B’81, South Bend, Ind., retired after 40 years of teaching at Niles High School as the choral and musical director.

Timothy O’Rourke ‘81, Cape Coral, Fla., began his position as registered nurse at Shorepoint Health in May 2022.

1990s

Kathleen Buhle B’91, Washington, D.C., wrote a book called “If We Break,” published on June 14, 2022.

Timothy Swanson B’91, Woodbury, Minn., began his position as senior vice president of sales at Smead Manufacturing Inc. in August 2022.

Tiana Weiler M’93, Schaumburg, Ill., began her position as director of cultural services for the Village of Schaumburg in May 2022.

Mario Mollo B’94, Lemont, Ill., was named director of the Archdiocese of Chicago’s Office for the Protection of Children and Youth on Aug. 1, 2022.

Dr. Stephanie Krusemark M’97, Westminster, Colo., earned the strategic enrollment management endorsement from the American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admission Officers in August 2022.

Michael “Mike” Linden B’98, M.D., Saint Paul, Minn., was awarded the 2022 CAP Lifetime Achievement Award.

Dr. Amanda Craig M’98, C’02, New York, N.Y., wrote a book titled “Who Are You & What Have You Done with My Kid? Connect with Your Tween While They Are Still Listening.” It was published on Sept. 20, 2022.

Brother Carlos G. Gomez, FSC, D’99, Bogotá, Colombia, was elected Vicar General of the Institute of the Brothers of the Christian Schools in May 2022.

2000s

G. Bryan Fleming M’00, Prior Lake, Minn., was named president of Groves Learning Organization in July 2022.

Amy Worden M’00, Bemidji, Minn., was named principal of Northern Elementary, effective in the 2022-23 school year.

Katie (Boller) Gosewisch B’01, Brighton, Minn., began her position as executive director at U.S. Catholic Sisters Against Human Trafficking in May 2022.

Amy Powers M’01, Saint Paul, Minn., received the 2022 University of Minnesota Morris Distinguished Alumni Award in June 2022.

Rachel Jackson M’02, C’12, Duluth, Minn., began her position as principal at Myers-Wilkins Elementary School on Sept. 1, 2022.

Neil Jennissen C’02, Grasston, Minn., was inducted into the Minnesota Wrestling Coaches Association Hall of Fame on May 7, 2022.

Jeffrey “Jeff” Briard M’03, Danbury, Wis., retired from teaching and coaching at Springfield Public Schools in May 2022.

Christina “Crissy” (Van Deusen) Knowles B’03, Farmington, Minn., began her position as accounts receivable manager at Anuvu in September 2022.

Kevin Bross M’04, Blaine, Minn., was named one of TIME Magazine’s innovative teachers of 2022 in June 2022.

David Haveman C’04, C’07, Hastings, Minn., was selected as executive director of student services at Lakeville Area School District beginning August 2022.

Michelle Mechtel M’04, C’06, St. Anthony, Minn., was named director of Saint Thomas Academy Middle School, effective July 1, 2022.

Stephen Embree Jr. B’05, Ascheville, N.C., began his position as a paramedic at Buncombe County Government in June 2022.

Katherine “Katie” Raso Carter M’05, C’07, Hastings, Minn., was named activities director for the Austin public school district in May 2022.

Jennifer Sadlovsky M’05, Pierz, Minn., wrote a curriculum for Early Childhood Family Education in May 2022.

Dennis Vickers B’05, Burlington, Vt., began his position as director of player personnel for the North American Hockey League in June 2022.

Allyn Emery B’06, Green Bay, Wis., began his position as vice presidentcommercial banker, middle marketing banking at JP Morgan Chase & Co. in June 2022.

Catherine “Katie” Julsrud B’06, Eau Claire, Wis., began teaching at Eau Claire Area School District in June 2022.

Dominic Lawrence B’06, M’10, Farmington, Minn., was promoted to senior director of development at Ducks Unlimited in July 2022.

Kelly Ohde B’06, Chicago, Ill., began her position as marketing director, recruitment at FullBloom in May 2022.

Dr. James Payette M’06, D’19, Coon Rapids, Minn., began his position as special education teacher at Mounds View Public Schools in August 2022.

Jill Meschke B’07, M’12, C’15, Wausau, Wis., began her position as CFO at Indiana Hemophilia and Thrombosis Center in June 2022.

Eric Olmscheid M’07, Des Moines, Iowa, was selected to serve as executive director of Michigan State University’s Wharton Center for Performing Arts, effective June 22, 2022.

Ariana Wright M’07, Kasson, Minn., was named National Distinguished Principal of the Year in May 2022.

Ryan Weinandt M’08, Dassel, Minn., was named principal of Dassel Elementary, effective for the 2022-2023 school year.

Adam Wiltgen B’08, Red Wing, Minn., began his position as program director at Anderson Center at Tower View in May 2022.

Melinda (Smith) Harkins M’09, Lake City, Minn., began her position as supply chain supervisor at 3M in June 2022.

Melissa Paulson B’09, Minneapolis, Minn., began her position as director, IT performance and metrics at Focus Brands LLC in July 2022.

Paula Stock M’09, Worthington, Minn., retired from Worthington Middle School in June 2022.

2010s

George Diaz M’10, Minneapolis, Minn., was promoted to undergraduate online business department chair at Concordia University in St. Paul in July 2022.

Clayton Ellis M’10, Savage, Minn., was selected as principal at Shakopee Public Schools East Middle School, effective June 20, 2022.

Mark Frank M’10, C13, Nevis, Minn., was hired as assistant principal for grades 4-8 at Century School in July 2022.

Valerie “Val” (Koch) Harris B’10, Waukesha, Wis., was promoted to brand manager at Milwaukee Tool in June 2022.

Saurabh Kapoor M’10, San Francisco, Calif., began his position as senior digital project manager at Wells Fargo in September 2022.

Sara (Eisenhauer) Quinnell B’10, Saint Paul, Minn., began her position as communications specialist at City of Oakdale, Minn. in July 2022.

Brandon Wanless B’10, Saint Paul, Minn., began his position as assistant professor of dogmatic theology at Saint Paul Seminary School of Divinity in August 2022.

Brandon Christensen B’11, Farmington, Minn., was promoted to associate director of business analytics at Optum Serve in November 2022.

Sarah (McDonough) Howard B’11, Pleasant Prairie, Wis., was promoted to executive director at Visit Pleasant Prairie in November 2022.

Caitlyn Cole B’12, Minneapolis, Minn., was promoted to career and college readiness team director at Achieve Twin Cities in July 2022.

Brian Dillon B’12, Maple Grove, Minn., was promoted to senior value manager at Workday in May 2022.

Sophie (Harrison) Fangel B’13, M’18, Rochester, Minn., began her position as data manager III, at Mayo Clinic in May 2022.

Michael McGreevey M’13, Big Lake, Minn., began his position as special needs plans senior at UCare in May 2022.

Julianne “Julie” (Bartosz) Olivo B’13, Mokena, Ill., began her position as external communications associate for special events, digital and technology at Macy’s in May 2022.

Cody Sprague B’13, M’17, Mc Gregor, Minn., began his position as senior innovation manager at BMW Brilliance Automotive in November 2022.

Jessica Vitale ‘13, Chicago, Ill., was promoted to executive assistant to managing partner at Northwestern Mutual in May 2022.

Kyle Johnsen B’14, Eagan, Minn., was promoted to manager of analytics and reporting strategy at CVS Health in June 2022.

Nicholas Kasel B’14, Saint Paul, Minn., began his position as scientist II at Donaldson in May 2022.

Elizabeth Niedbala B’14, Batavia, Ill., began her position as applied social scientist at the United States Department of Defense in May 2022.

Claudia Roesler M’14, Janesville, Minn., began her position as head of Loyola Catholic Schools on July 1, 2022.

Evan Shockley B’14, Omaha, Neb., began his position as a research staff member at the Institute for Defense Analyses in September 2022.

Saint Mary’s Career Services has created a hashtag campaign for social media and the university website in an effort to share the outcomes of our amazing Saint Mary’s graduates. We’d love to showcase your current position. Tell us how Saint Mary’s helped prepare you for a successful career and use our new #Cardinal2Career hashtag. This visibility helps encourage prospective students to attend Saint Mary’s!

Elizabeth (Rodriguez) Treacy B’14, West Des Moines, Iowa, was promoted to people solutions director at CLA in June 2022.

Janna (Mason) Van Antwerp B’14, Brentwood, Tenn., was promoted to consultant at Halloran Consulting Group, Inc. in June 2022.

Connor Ahern ‘15, Bluffton, S.C., began teaching special education at the Tomahawk School District Middle School in the 2022-23 school year.

Octavia Brown B’15, M’21, Winona, Minn., began her position as outpatient mental health practitioner at Nystrom and Associates, Ltd. in August 2022.

William Peel C’15, C’17, Sturgeon Lake, Minn., began his new position as Barnum Public Schools superintendent in July 2022.

Joseph “Joe” Bosco B’16, Palatine, Ill., began his position as senior managerCPG marketing and media at Albertsons Media Collective in August 2022.

Kathleen “Kathy” Butler M’16, Kelowna, British Columbia, received the Okanagan College Foundation Distinguished Service Award in May 2022.

William “Will” Doll B’16, Minneapolis, Minn., began his position as SMB account representative at Arctic Wolf in August 2022.

Dwayne Dyce M’16, New York, N.Y., began his position as divisional equity and belonging programming coordinator at The Dalton School in September 2022.

Jonathon Elliott B’16, Winona, Minn., began his position as director of hockey operations at Miami University in August 2022.

Kelli Harstad B’16, Minneapolis, Minn., was promoted to senior application engineer of respiratory protection at 3M in November 2022.

Christopher “Chris” Hirsch B’16, Richfield, Minn., began his position as an officer with the Gaylord Police on May 9, 2022.

Margaret “Rosie” Lacy B’16, Chicago, Ill., began her position as marketing coordinator at @properties in July 2022.

Elizabeth (Schmidt) Thedens B’16, Plainview, Minn., began her position as administrative assistant at Mayo Clinic in August 2022.

Kevin Valverde B’16, Minneapolis, Minn., began his position as retail relationship banker at BMO Harris Bank in September 2022.

Heidi Addo M’17, Minneapolis, Minn., was promoted to vice president at Michel Commercial Real Estate in August 2022.

Douglas “Doug” Brands C’17, Worthington, Minn., was selected as the assistant principal at Worthington High School in May 2022.

Lauren Finley B’17, Minneapolis, Minn., began position as PGY-2 ambulatory care pharmacy resident at Williams S. Middleton Memorial VA Hospital in July 2022.

Stephanie Hammes B’17, Faribault, Minn., began her position as early childhood special education teacher at Kenyon-Wanamingo Schools in the 2022-23 school year.

Michael “Mike” Amelio B’18, Venetia, Pa., began his position as senior associate at Cherry Tree & Associates in May 2022.

Sean Butcher B’18, Eau Claire, Wis., began his position as S&OP analytics manager at Ashley Logistics Solutions in July 2022.

Sara Dethloff B’18, Chicago, Ill., began her position as education manager at Association Management Center in June 2022.

Liam Gorman B’18, Orland Park, Ill., began his position as senior account specialist at Lockton Companies in June 2022.

Garrett Grunke B’18, M’22, C’22, Eagan, Minn., was promoted to financial planning and analysis manager at Factory Motor Parts in June 2022.

Jared Johnson B’18, Saint Paul, Minn., began his position as associate wealth manager II and shareholder at Echo Wealth Management, LLC in August 2022.

Tara Nagy B’18, Oak Lawn, Ill., began her new position as senior analyst, business intelligence at Ulta Beauty in August 2022.

Spencer Rohlinger M’18, Baraboo, Wis., began teaching science at River Falls High School in the 2022-23 school year.

Nathaniel Vandegrift B’18, Lakeville, Minn., began his position as accounting controller at Thatcher Pools and Spas in June 2022.

Paul Baglio M’19, Portland, Ore., began his position as project manager, owner’s rep services at Hyphn Studio in August 2022.

Olivia Kostueck B’19, Minooka, Ill., began her position as a registered nurse at University of Minnesota Medical Center in August 2022.

Dakota Lawrence M’19, C’21, Worthington, Minn., was chosen as the new principal of District 518 Learning Center in July 2022.

Erin McElligott B’19, Iowa City, Iowa, began teaching at Waterloo Public Schools in July 2022.

Lucas Mlinarcik B’19, Richfield, Minn., began his position as specialty sales team lead at Target in June 2022.

Rachel Jaye Meyer M’19, Eau Claire, Wis., began her position as proposal specialist at Badger Meter in August 2022.

Jordan Victoria ‘19, Rochester, Minn., opened a restaurant called Sorellina’s Italian, by Victoria’s in August 2022.

Shawn Williams D’19, Saint Michael, Minn., began his position as associate dean of education services - law enforcement at Alexandria Technical and Community College in August 2022.

2020s

Theresa Cheever B’20, Saint Paul, Minn., began her position as community support specialist at Gateway Unlimited Living in July 2022.

Justin Edwards B’20, Wauwatosa, Wis., began his position as associate wealth manager at Echo Wealth Management, LLC in June 2022.

Christina Galvan B’20, Racine, Wis., began teaching at Racine Unified School District in August 2022.

Patrick Laughlin B’20, Saint Louis, Mo., was promoted to senior assistant examiner at Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis in June 2022.

Ryan Schultz B’20, Edina, Minn., began his position as police lieutenant at the Edina Police Department, effective Sept. 6, 2022.

Alexander Bader ‘21, Chanhassen, Minn., began his position as media intern at Haberman in August 2022.

Clare Bath B’21, Minneapolis, Minn., began her position as research assistant at University of Notre Dame Sociology in April 2022.

Jenifer “Jeni” Giefer B’21, Rochester, Minn., began her position as personal banker at ONB Bank in July 2022.

Jacob “Jake” Homan B’21, North Mankato, Minn., began his position as audit associate at Abdo in May 2022.

Jonathan Meaden B’21, Rosemount, Minn., began his position as general duty deputy at Dakota County in May 2022.

Jack Pierazek B’21, Winona, Minn., was promoted to supplier development manager at Fastenal Company in August 2022.

Andrew “Andy” Tepp B’21, Owatonna, Minn., began his position as marketing development trainee at Federated Insurance in June 2022.

Warlyston “Wally” Barros B’22, Sparta, Wis., began his position as IT associate project manager at Fastenal Company in July 2022.

Jada Biermeier B’22, Minnetonka, Minn., began her position as associate account manager at Lockton Companies in June 2022.

Luke Gilbertson B’22, Windom, Minn., began his position as bulk fuel sales manager at Staples Oil Co. in May 2022.

Jacob Johnson B’22, Hartland, Wis., began his position as marketing coordinator at Wolter in June 2022.

Henry Kelly B’22, Saint Paul, Minn., began his position as market research analyst at Ames Construction in May 2022.

Emily Kline B’22, New Brighton, Minn., began her position as special projects editor at Endeavor Business Media in June 2022.

Jordyn Matthews B’22, Winona, Minn., began her position as sales associate at Align Technology in May 2022.

Luke Pauly B’22, St. Anthony, Minn., began his positions as high school mathematics teacher and soccer coach at Spring Lake Park Senior High School in July 2022.

Noah Reinhardt B’22, Castle Pines, Colo., began his position as marketing manager at AvidMax in September 2022.

Kayla Sjodin B’22, Waterford, Wis., began her position as retirement plan administrator technician at TSC Inc. in May 2022.

Erin Sullivan B’22, Wisconsin Rapids, Wis., began her position as clinical research coordinator at Mayo Clinic in July 2022.

Robert Tilot B’22, Pulaski, Wis., began his position as conversion analyst at Fiserv in May 2022.

Clarissa Van Dale B’22, New Brighton, Minn., began her position as clinical research assistant at HealthPartners, Inc. in June 2022.

Trevor Wilhelm B’22, St. Louis, Mo., began his position as supply chain analyst at Fastenal in May 2022.

Caroline Woodle B’22, Knoxville, Iowa, began her position as living skills advisor at Christian Opportunity Center in May 2022.

Marriages

2020s

Ethan B’21 and Sally (Traxler) B’22 Lacey, New Prague, Minn., on July 16, 2022.

John Paul B’22 and Felicity (Bieker) B’22 Keane, Saint Paul, Minn., on June 4, 2022.

Births

2000s

James and Amanda “Rosie” (Gwost) Dotson B’04, M’05, New Prague, Minn., a son, Gabriel, on April 11, 2022.

Shelby Hicks B’07, C’09, M’12, New Richmond, Wis., a daughter, on June 17, 2022.

2010s

Brian B’11 and Michelle (Quinn) B’11 C’12, M’14 Kusek, Winona, Minn., a son, on May 25, 2022.

Gregory “Greg” Freeman B’11 and Margaret “Maggie” Allexsaht B’12, Minneapolis, Minn., a daughter, on May 31, 2022.

Conner B’15, M’17 and Christine (Volk) B’15, M’20 Ellinghuysen, Storm Lake, Iowa, a son, on Aug. 9, 2022.

Patrick “Pat” B’15 and Dorothy (Kirsch) B’19 Sweet, South Saint Paul, Minn., a daughter, in January 2022.

Andrew B’16 and Jocelyn “Josie” (Moreno) B’16 Jaworski, Elk Grove Village, Ill., a daughter, on April 23, 2022.

Jake and Kendra (Palkowski) Budish B’16, Arcadia, Wis., a son, on Jan. 14, 2022.

Samuel “Sam” B’19 and Erin (Budin) B’20 French, Winona, Minn., a son, on Oct. 24, 2022.

FACULTY/STAFF

Anna, Library Circulation Services Manager, and James “Twigz” McGuire, Recreation, Involvement, and Student Engagement Coordinator, Winona, Minn., a son, on June 27, 2022.

Deaths

1940s

Raymond Basso B’47, Jacksonville, Fla., on Sept. 2, 2022.

Dr. James “Jim” Beaudry B’49, Indianapolis, Ind., on June 8, 2022.

1950s

Dr. Robert Krupp B’51, Bradenton, Fla., on Aug. 9, 2022.

John Schutz B’51, Elmwood Park, Ill., on July 20, 2022.

James Dolan, Sr. B’52, Crestwood, Ill., on April 1, 2022.

Msgr. James McCauley B’52, Brownsville, Minn., on June 5, 2022.

Thomas “Tom” Meagher Sr. B’53, Burr Ridge, Ill., on Nov. 21, 2022.

Brother Ignatius “Iggy” Brown, FSC B’54, M’62, Memphis, Tenn., on July 4, 2022.

Donald “Don” Cremer B’56, Harmony, Minn., on May 4, 2022.

Dr. Robert “Bob” Hoffman B’56, Berlin, Md., on Oct. 23, 2022.

Dr. Joseph Benigni B’57, Minneapolis, Minn., on Feb. 9, 2022.

Edward “Ed” Bohrer ‘57, Saint Paul, Minn., on March 12, 2022.

Brother Kenneth Gillund, FSC B’57, Chicago, Ill., on Aug. 23, 2022.

Edward “Ed” Driscoll Jr. B’58, Mendota Heights, Minn., on Aug. 21, 2022.

Daniel Kelley, Jr. B’58, on Aug. 22, 2022.

Delroy “Mike” Palmer B’58, Raymond, Iowa, on July 12, 2022.

1960s

Most Rev. Robert Brom B’60, San Diego, Calif., on May 9, 2022.

John Speltz B’60, Roseville, Minn., on July 3, 2022.

Morris “Moe” Berk III B’61, St. Louis, Mo., on March 12, 2022.

Brother Konrad Diebold, FSC B’61, M’69, Chicago, Ill., on Oct. 11, 2022.

William “Bill” Hayes B’61, Naples, Fla., on July 22, 2022.

Richard “Dick” Velner B’61, Minneapolis, Minn., on June 7, 2022.

Thomas Meagher B’53

Thomas Meagher B’53, renowned Chicago influencer, and longtime generous supporter and trustee emeritus of Saint Mary’s, died Nov. 21, 2022.

Meagher met his wife Mona (Carens) CST’53 at Saint Mary’s, and the two married shortly after graduation. He then served in the U.S. Marine Corps and obtained the rank of Captain.

Meagher’s career began with Sears and American Airlines management training programs. He later worked for and became president of Continental Air Transport bus company (owned by Checker Motor Company) that served Chicago’s hotels and airports. While in that role, Richard J. Daley, Mayor of the City of Chicago, asked him to become the first President of the Chicago Convention and Tourism Bureau (now known as Choose Chicago).

After serving in that role, he returned to Continental Air Transport as CEO and led the purchase of Continental from Checker Motors. Years later, he sold his interest in Continental and purchased Howell Tractor and Equipment

Arlon Sieve B’62, Windham, N.H., on June 17, 2022.

Richard “Dick” Walters B’62, Grosse Pointe Shores, Mich., on Nov. 1, 2021.

Hon. Ronald “Ron” Wietecha B’64, Cape Coral, Fla., on Aug. 9, 2022.

Patrick Reisinger B’65, Apple Valley, Minn., on Oct. 2, 2022.

William “Bill” Latusky B’66, Las Vegas, Nev., on June 13, 2022.

Dr. Richard “Dick” Kowles M’67, Winona, Minn., on Aug. 22, 2022.

Michael McLean B’67, Aiken, S.C., on April 27, 2022.

1970s

Dr. John “Jack” Navins B’70, Springfield, Ill., on July 11, 2022.

Company and PGC Golf Carts in Stuart, Fla.

He also shared his business and leadership talents by serving on many boards, including Saint Mary’s University’s Board of Trustees between the years of 1973 and 1979 and 1988-1998.

He started the Lt. Thomas F. Meagher, C.P.D. Scholarship at Saint Mary’s in memory of his father, a Chicago Police Officer, ensuring the Meagher name would continue at his alma mater. The first scholarship was awarded in 1994-95. To donate in his memory, connect.smumn.edu/donate.

Among his survivors are his son Mike B’87 (Margaret “Peggy” Drennan B’87) Meagher, also a former Saint Mary’s trustee, and son Terence Meagher B’91.

Class Notes

Dr. Michael “Mike” Barcelona B’71, Kalamazoo, Mich., on April 20, 2022.

Luke Botica B’71, Orland Park, Ill., on May 13, 2022.

W. Patrick “Pat” O’Hara B’71, Romeoville, Ill., on May 28, 2022.

John “Jack” Tierney B’73, Naperville, Ill., on Aug. 19, 2022.

Sheila (Kabara) Howell ‘75, Stone Mountain, Ga., on April 27, 2022.

Dawn (Pendzimas) Klein ‘75, Ouray, Colo., on Feb. 14, 2022.

Gayl Madigan B’76, Shakopee, Minn., on March 20, 2022.

1980s

Patricia “Patty” (Clark) Kardashian B’83, Pine Springs, Minn., on Jan. 14, 2022.

Dr. Michael Kierski B’84, Sauk City, Wis., on June 20, 2022.

Deborah “Deb” Clasen M’87, Duluth, Minn., on April 10, 2022.

Mark Soder B’87, Palos Heights, Ill., on July 23, 2022.

Jeanne (Dvorak) Nolden B’88, Forest Lake, Minn., on June 16, 2022.

Daniel “Dan” Locher B’89, Apple Valley, Minn., on May 27, 2022.

1990s

Tina (Haas) Wright B’91, Hazel Green, Wis., on Aug. 21, 2022.

Dorothy “Dotte” Crowder M’94, San Francisco, Calif., on July, 30, 2021.

Rose Schaffhausen M’95, St. Paul, Minn., on Nov. 22, 2021.

Daniel Bowler M’99, Minneapolis, Minn., on May 21, 2022.

2000s

Father Dana Christensen B’01, Sioux Falls, S.D., on May 15, 2022.

Betty Gottsacker M’03, Lakeville, Minn., on May 16, 2022.

Kay Harvey M’03, Saint Paul, Minn., on Aug. 17, 2022.

2010s

Brandon D. Voss C’10, Andover, Minn., on Feb. 20, 2022.

David Cahill III M’11, D’19, Pelican Rapids, Minn., on May 5, 2022.

Katherine “Kate” Beesch C’14, Saint Paul, Minn., on May 16, 2022.

Eric Zeitlin B’15, Lagrange Park, Ill., on Aug. 19, 2022.

2020s

Shahid Hussain ‘23, Saint Louis Park, Minn., in June 2022.

FACULTY/STAFF

Jerome “Jerry” Baertsch, former custodial staff, Winona, Minn., on July 24, 2022.

Dr. Richard “Dick” Kowles M’67, former professor emeritus of biology, Winona, Minn., on Aug. 22, 2022.

Cleo McMillen, former director of the reading and study skills center and assistant professor in the education department, Burnsville, Minn., on May 4, 2022.

Brother Lawrence Oelschlegel, FSC, former English professor, Romeoville, Ill., on Aug. 1, 2022.

Marcella (Langowski) Peplinski, Winona, Minn., on Nov. 10, 2021.

Lisa Tudahl, former custodial staff, Winona, Minn., on July 3, 2022.

Barthlette “Barky” Weaver, former maintenance staff, Winona, Minn., on Feb. 24, 2021.

Brother Herman Zaccarelli, former director of business and entrepreneurial management, Notre Dame, Ind., on Jan. 19, 2022.

Sympathies

1950s

Richard Bergman B’58, on the passing of his wife, Patricia “Pat” (White) CST’58, on May 25, 2022.

John Martin B’58, on the passing of his sister-in-law, Nancy (Feltl) Martin CST’60, on Aug. 29, 2022.

1960s

Robert “Jerry” Lang B’66, on the passing of his wife, Mary “Sue” (Joyce) Lang CST’68, on July 2, 2022.

Michael B’64 and Teresa (Lanphear) CST’65 Reisinger, Timothy “Tim” B’69 and Barbara “Barb” (Reisinger) CST’69 Padden, Dr. Brian Padden B’94, Dr. Karen (Padden) Kress B’97, and Jeffrey Reisinger ‘02, on the passing of their brother, brother-in-law, uncle, and father, Patrick Reisinger B’65, on Oct. 2, 2022.

1970s

Dr. Lawrence “Larry” Foody B’72, Steven “Steve” B’74 and Elizabeth “Beth” (Foody) ‘75 Bork, Richard “Rich” Foody ‘77, Sandra “Sandy” (Baggio) Foody B’83, Julie (Bork) B’01 and Gregory “Greg” B’02 Miller, Teresa “Teri” (Bork) Paradowski ‘03, Lisa (Bork) Leslie ‘05, and Christopher “Chris” Foody ‘08, on the passing of their mother, mother-in-law, grandmother, and grandmother-in-law, Teresa (Hepp) Foody, on Jan. 10, 2022.

John Pribyl B’73, Emily (Pribyl) B’03 and Nathan “Nate” B’04 Semsch, on the passing of their brother, father, and father-in-law, Stephen Pribyl, on March 22, 2022.

Jeffrey “Jeff” Johnson B’74 and Jay Johnson B’04, on the passing of their mother and grandmother, Margie (Bjorkman) Johnson CST‘45, on June 5, 2022.

Frank III B’75 and Rochelle (Stewart) CST’76 Kozera, and Jeanne Stewart B’82, on the passing of their father-inlaw and father, Harold “Stu” Stewart, on Sept. 22, 2022.

Thomas Markwardt ‘78 and Nathan “Nate” Campbell B’07, on the passing of their father and grandfather, Kenneth Markwardt, on Oct. 22, 2022.

Douglas Kowles B’79, Gregory Kowles B’80, Deborah “Debbie” (Kowles) Erickson B’84, Jeanne (Kowles) Rye B’85, and Brian B’89 and Eileen (Gibbons) B’88 Kowles, on the passing of their father and father-in-law, Dr.

Richard “Dick” Kowles M’67, on Aug. 22, 2022.

1980s

James “Jim” Halpin B’80, on the loss of his son, Matthew Haplin, on Aug. 28, 2022.

Walter III B’81 and Mary (Moore) ‘82 Smithe, Timothy “Tim” Smithe B’85, Mark Smithe B’86, Walter Smithe, IV B’09, Cameron Smithe ‘13, and Reid Smithe B’14, on the passing of their father, father-in-law, and grandfather, Walter E. Smithe, Jr., on Oct. 9, 2022.

Mark Meyer B’83 and Lynn (Meyer) Zahorak B’86, on the passing of their father, James Meyer, on Aug. 6, 2022.

Mark Munns B’83, Emily Munns B’12, Rebecca Munns B’14, M’20, and Sarah Munns B’18, on the passing of their mother and grandmother, Mary Munns, on Aug. 28, 2022.

Michael “Mike” B’87 and Margaret “Peggy” (Drennan) B’87 Meagher and Terence Meagher B’91 on the passing of their father and father-in-law, Thomas “Tom” Meagher Sr. B’53, on Nov. 21, 2022.

Catherine “Cathy” (Frankard) Cooksy B’86, Caroline (Frankard) Henderson ‘88, and Scott Frankard B’89, on the passing of their father, James Frankard, on Oct. 17, 2022.

1990s

Dr. Joyce Bautch B’91, Associate Professor of Theology and Philosophy, on the passing of her sister, Susan Mary Oldakowski, on Sept. 15, 2022. Asta (Tijunelis) Dauksa B’92, on the passing of her mother, Vida Tijunelis, on May 15, 2022.

Dr. David Belde B’94 and Robert “Rob” Belde M’96, on the passing of their mother, Judith Belde, on May 27, 2022.

Jeffery “Jeff” Schneller B’96, on the passing of his father, Alfred Schneller, on July 1, 2022.

Tara Tvedt B’96, on the passing of her father, Jerry Tvedt, on Aug. 15, 2022.

Bernie Wagnild

Bernie Wagnild was not an alumnus, but his respect and admiration for Saint Mary’s, and in particular to the De La Salle Christian Brothers, inspired his lifelong commitment to the university. Though Wagnild passed away on Dec. 25, 2022, this legacy at Saint Mary’s lives on in his many accomplishments and contributions.

In 1993, Wagnild generously helped found the Hendrickson Institute for Ethical Leadership at Saint Mary’s to “encourage and develop creative, ethical, and globally oriented leaders. Then, in 2000, he and his wife Jan created the Wagnild Family Scholarship to support students at the institute.

The Wagnilds have also supported the Centennial celebration, the Tim Burchill Scholarship, the annual fund, and various campaigns, as well as the Christian Brothers Statue on campus, installed in 2013. In 2003, Saint Mary’s honored him with an Honorary Doctorate of Philanthropy and Leadership.

Wagnild earned the title trustee emeritus, serving as a university trustee for more than two decades, from 1980 to 2002, using his successful automotive business knowledge to help guide the university. Wagnild started by working in the parts department of a dealership in the Twin Cities. After that he worked his way up to General Manager through the ’60s and early ’70s at various dealerships in the Twin Cities area, before starting his own dealership, Wagnild Chevrolet in Winona, in 1975. Later he grew his business to include several dealerships known as the Valley Automotive Group, and he had dealerships in Apple Valley, Hastings, Waconia, and Hutchinson.

In honor of his success, he received the 2006 TIME Magazine Quality Dealer Award. Generous to many organizations and causes, Wagnild once said he carried “a passion for returning to the world the same opportunities I so greatly benefited from.” Survivors with ties to the university include his son, Dean Wagnild B’86.

and father-in-law, James “Jim” Karnick, on Sept. 16, 2022.

2000s

Matthew “Matt” Palkert B’00, M’05, on the passing of his mother, Gladys, on Feb. 3, 2022.

Reyanna ‘02 and Jeremey (Stark) ‘05 Klein, on the passing of their mother and mother-in-law, Dawn (Pendzimas) Klein ‘75, on Feb. 14, 2022.

Allan M’02 and Terri Lieder, marketing and communication senior designer, and Katharine Lieder B’14, on the passing of their father-in-law, father, and grandfather, Gerald Niehaus, on Aug. 8, 2022.

James “Jim” B’04 and Jennifer “Jenny” (Folgers) B’05 Baertsch, and Jerod Baertsch B’09 on the passing of their father-in-law and father, Jerome “Jerry” Baertsch, on July 24, 2022.

Tera Bollig B’07, Ashley Bollig B’15, and Madalyn Bollig B’20 on the passing of their mother, Lisa (Sandberg) Bollig, on June 8, 2021.

Stephanie (Klinger) B’07 and Michael B’09, C’11 Sweeney, on the passing of their mother-in-law and mother, Nancy Sweeney, on Oct. 21, 2022.

James B’08, M’19 and Sophie (Harrison) B’13, M’18 Fangel, Susan “Sue” (Vitelli) Fangel M’09, B’19, Andrew B’11, M’19 and Abby (Lough) B’13 Fangel, on the passing of their grandmother, grandmother-in-law, and mother, Harriet Vitelli, in Oct. 2022.

2010s

Peter Tornquist B’10 and Julia Waterloo B’19, on the passing of their grandmother, Shirley Waterloo, on Oct. 7, 2022.

Steven Gottsacker M’18, on the passing of his mother Betty (Rominski) Gottsacker M’03, on May 16, 2022.

Amanda Kintzi B’19 and Audrey Kintzi, vice president emerita and executive director, M.A. in Philanthropy and Development, on the passing of their grandfather and father, Stan Pacholski, on Oct. 16, 2022.

Donald “Don” Alsum, Ph.D.

Donald “Don” Alsum, Ph.D., longtime science faculty member, passed away Dec. 29, 2022, leaving behind a lengthy educational legacy.

Dr. Alsum began teaching at Saint Mary’s in 1974, and for 28 years, he taught anatomy, physiology, general biology, microbiology, and graduate courses in histology and endocrinology. He established the allied health programs and developed partnerships for student placement with hospitals in four states. He also acquired, participated, and taught in a variety of summer grants for pre-college teachers. According to his obituary, during his 37 (total) years of teaching, he enjoyed challenging students at every level of development.

Even in his retirement, Dr. Alsum and his wife, Mariann, continued to support the university as a generous benefactor, as well as by attending numerous events. His son, David ’95 also attended Saint Mary’s.

2020s

Edward Driscoll IV ‘21, on the passing of his grandfather Edward “Ed” Driscoll, Jr. B’58, on Aug. 21, 2022.

Quinn McGranaghan B’21, on the passing of her grandfather, Dr. John Munro, on Jan. 20, 2022.

Alexus Lawrence ‘25, on the passing of her mother, Kristina Stettler, on Oct. 17, 2022.

FACULTY/STAFF

The Very Rev. James P. Burns, IVD, Ph.D., university president, on the passing of his father, John “Jack” Burns, Sr., on Oct. 20, 2022.

Lynette Johnson, director of event services, on the passing of her father in October 2022.

NOTE: Class Notes reflects submissions from May 6 to Nov. 21.

Dr. Dick Kowles M’67

Dr. Dick Kowles M’67, long-time Saint Mary’s biology educator, renowned researcher, and distinguished professor emeritus, passed away Monday, Aug. 22, 2022.

Renowned regionally and nationally as an expert in the field of genetics, Dr. Kowles distinguished himself as both a researcher and a writer through the publication of books, textbooks, and scientific articles. He is revered for his extensive research on genetic and molecular aspects of kernel development in maize (corn).

Dr. Kowles taught at Saint Mary’s for 36 years, retiring in 2008. In addition to his professor emeritus title, he earned the Brother Charles H. Severin Award in 1979 and the Minnesota Science Teacher of the Year honor in 1984. He also was involved in the university receiving $1.1 million in grants during his years at Saint Mary’s.

A respected educator, he was constantly searching for a better way to present material to his students. “Learning should be joyous,” he said. “I hope I would also be remembered for taking complex structures and making them simple for students to learn. That would be the sign of a very good teacher.”

Dr. Kowles’ former students

Dr. Steve Rice

B’79, second from left, and Dr. James Dolan B’79, fourth from left, joined Father Burns, fourth from right, and members of Dr. Kowles’ family, from left: Vanessa Kowles, Brooke Kowles, Doug Kowles, Deb (Kowles) Erickson, Carmen Erickson, and Sandy Kowles.