Life Cycles 2012

Life Cycles 2012

“The flowers are friends, and friends are flowers In love and beauty given, The one to light our darkest hours, And both to mirror heaven.�

- Mother Margaret Cecelia George

Dear Sisters and Associates,

W

ith this edition of Life Cycles, we celebrate our thirty-one Sisters and Associates who finished their earthly lives during 2012. Their stories speak to us of their strong faith in God, their courage in the face of difficulties, their willingness to risk a caring response, their joy in sharing their gifts, their faithfulness to our Charity charism.

Each of these women touched our lives in countless ways, large and small, public and private. They served with us, encouraged us, laughed with us, challenged us, supported us, prayed with us, and played with us. And we are the richer for having been touched by them.

Joyce Johnson Rouse caught the spirit of their legacy, and of our remembering, in her song, “Standing on the Shoulders.�

I am standing on the shoulders of the ones who came before me I am stronger for their courage, I am wiser for their words I am lifted by their longing for a fair and brighter future I am grateful for their vision, for their toiling on this Earth.

Rouse reminds us of all these women gave us in who they were and how they lived.

Their words, their longing, their vision, their toiling have ennobled us in our own lives of Charity. Let us thank them by standing tall on their shoulders. We count on them to hold us up as we continue their efforts toward a fair and brighter future.

And let us thank God for the gift of their lives. They were models of faithfulness while here on earth. Now we count on them to pray for us as they enjoy life in the presence of God. Rest in peace, dear Loved Ones!

Joan Elizabeth Cook, SC President

Table of Contents Associate Marian Ainsworth......................................................................................... Page 4 S. Marie Helen Ankenbrandt....................................................................................... Page 5 S. Genevieve Bankowski............................................................................................... Page 6 S. Rose Elizabeth Bumgarner........................................................................................ Page 7 S. Ann Paulette Burger................................................................................................. Page 8 S. Teresa Chang............................................................................................................ Page 9 S. Teresa Mary Chiou................................................................................................. Page 10 Associate Vivian Compton......................................................................................... Page 11 S. Mary Jean Fields..................................................................................................... Page 12 S. Grace Graber.......................................................................................................... Page 13 S. Mary Ann Gutzwiller............................................................................................. Page 14 Associate Sally Hart.................................................................................................... Page 15 S. Rose Marie Hewitt................................................................................................. Page 16 Associate Helen Kaminski.......................................................................................... Page 17 S. Mary Catherine Kelsey........................................................................................... Page 18 S. Dorothy Macey...................................................................................................... Page 19 S. Mary Patrice Mahoney........................................................................................... Page 20 S. Margaret Mary McCullough.................................................................................. Page 21 S. Mary Paul Medland................................................................................................ Page 22 S. Ann Mojzisik.......................................................................................................... Page 23 Associate Kathryn Moore........................................................................................... Page 24 S. Geraldine O’Hagan................................................................................................ Page 25 S. Gertrudis Pfeiffer.................................................................................................... Page 26 S. Marian Schlueter.................................................................................................... Page 27 S. Rosemary Schmid.................................................................................................. Page 28 S. Mary Imelda Sekerak.............................................................................................. Page 29 S. Rose Edward Simons.............................................................................................. Page 30 Associate Karl Sunderhaus.......................................................................................... Page 31 S. Martha Seton Tsai.................................................................................................. Page 32 S. Grace Verba............................................................................................................ Page 33 S. Mary Carol Wintzinger.......................................................................................... Page 34

Associate Marian Ainsworth

B

orn on Feb. 7, 1921, in Cleveland, Ohio, Associate Marian Ainsworth credited her father’s involvement in the St. Vincent de Paul Society and her parents’ practice of the Works of Mercy and other religious and social activities as the basis for her deep Vincentian spirituality. She had one brother, Thomas, and one sister who made vows as a Vincentian Sister of Charity, the late S. Mary Elisabeth Ann Rechka.

o

Active in St. Vincent de Paul Society Loved to crochet Loved to bowl Excellent caregiver Loved the Eucharist p

Marian married Clifford and they had two sons Kenneth and Clifford.

At the time of her death, she had five grandchildren and many greatgrandchildren.

Marian learned to crochet at age 8 and this skill proved valuable in years to come. She crocheted and donated baby sets for fundraising and lap robes, ponchos, hats and capes for women and men in nursing homes. Her hands were always busy with yarn and hook. At one time she crocheted lace for altar cloths, albs and surplices for her parish church and tablecloths for the convent. She was a seamstress all of her life and volunteered to alter clothing for others in the parish.

“Crocheting was something Marian did almost without thinking,” S. Regina Kusnir said. “She was that good. Innumerable the baby layettes she made for the Vincentian Sisters of Charity gift shop and later for the gift shop at Light of Hearts Villa.”

For several years Marian taught sixth grade at St. Wenceslaus until state regulations required a teaching degree. She won trophies for teaching students how to bowl. Marian also made a home for her mother for 25 years and for her father-in-law for two years until they died. She was frequently teased about her “private nursing home,” since she had to give up her sewing room for this purpose.

Each Saturday Marian could be found at St. Martin of Tours Church making a Holy Hour honoring the Eucharist. She prayed the rosary and the Chaplet of Mercy daily and often drove her neighbors and friends to church.

Marian lived a life of charity. She made her commitment as an Associate in Mission on June 28, 2006.

Marian Ainsworth died Oct. 14, 2012, at the age of 91.

4

S. Marie Helen Ankenbrandt

A

Sister of Charity for 67 years, S. Marie Helen Ankenbrandt was born Kathleen Mary Ann Ankenbrandt on April 19, 1927, in Cleveland, Ohio, the eldest of eight children. Sister once reflected that on many occasions she accompanied her grandfather on Society of St. Vincent de Paul calls, which brought her to an awareness of the needs of the poor at a very young age. She met the Sisters of Charity through a friend, and the charism of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton held that same awareness and a call.

S. Marie Helen entered the Sisters of Charity on Sept. 8, 1944, and spent 28 years as an elementary teacher and religious educator, serving in the states of Ohio, Maryland, Michigan and Florida. In her autobiographical sketch, Sister wrote: “I learned from my mom how to relate with others, especially to small children. I think this is why I became such a successful teacher.”

After completing her master’s degree in religious studies, Sister became the director of the Catechetical Center at St. Vincent de Paul Seminary in Boynton Beach, Fla., serving there for seven years. S. Marie Helen was the first Sister of Charity of Cincinnati to minister in Florida.

She remained in the Diocese of Miami for three more years, working as a religious education director and consultant. Moving to the Diocese of Palm Beach she worked with Our Sunday Visitor as a consultant until injuries from an automobile accident forced her to retire from active ministry. S. Marie Helen was able to continue her hobbies of flowerarranging and photography, visiting the sick, and singing in St. Maurice parish choir. Contemplative prayer remained a constant in her life.

A fellow Florida Sister of Charity, S. Mary Loyola Mathia, belonged to the same small group as S. Marie Helen; this continued for many years along with other Sisters and Associates from Georgia, Florida and Tennessee.

“With her quiet sense of humor S. Marie Helen managed to keep us all on track, which was no small task,” S. Mary Loyola said.

S. Marie Helen Ankenbrandt died June 28, 2012, in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., at the age of 85.

5

o

Lived far from the Mount but stayed close to Community Organized Warm Gracious Kind p

S. Genevieve Bankowski

S.

Genevieve Bankowski was born Dec. 11, 1913, in Detroit, Mich. S. Genevieve came to the Congregation as a registered nurse, having earned her LRN from the St. Joseph School of Nursing in Mount Clemens, Mich., in 1939.

Sister first met the Sisters of Charity while working on her degree. She particularly admired S. Jean DePaul and felt drawn to religious life through their friendship; she entered the Sisters of Charity on Jan. 31, 1940.

o

Sensitive to patients’ needs Respected by her colleagues Caring Generous Model of Charity p

S. Genevieve spent more than 50 years ministering as a nurse in the dioceses of Denver, Colo., Santa Fe, N.M., Pueblo, Colo., Cincinnati, Ohio, Columbus, Ohio, and Detroit, Mich.

Sister spent 1964 until 1966 at St. Vincent Hospital in Santa Fe, N.M. S. Pat Marie Bernard remembers living and ministering with S. Genevieve during that time. “She was the night nursing supervisor,” S. Pat Marie said, “very respected by the doctors, and loved by the patients. I was grateful, along the way, for opportunities to thank her for being such a good person and using her talents so well.”

Twenty-five of S. Genevieve’s years in nursing were spent at St. Joseph Hospital in Mount Clemens. S. Roslyn Hafertepe has many fond memories of S. Genevieve in her early days at St. Joseph. “Dear S. Genevieve was a most caring, generous and dedicated nurse who touched many, many lives; she was greatly respected by other health care professionals. She never failed to reach out to others and especially to those who seemed to be worried or forgotten by society,” S. Roslyn recalled.

In her retirement S. Genevieve resided at St. Louis, Mount Clemens, Mich., assisting with senior citizen activities in the parish and visiting her sister Helen on the farm. While in Mother Margaret Hall she served as a chapel assistant and volunteered her help to the Sisters residing there.

“She was so loving, compassionate and a model of Charity through her many years in Mother Margaret Hall,” S. Rita Cocquyt said. “I will always remember her many fine qualities.”

S. Genevieve Bankowski died Nov. 17, 2012, in Mother Margaret Hall at the age of 98.

6

S. Rose Elizabeth Bumgarner

T

he Community of Charity was part of S. Rose Elizabeth Bumgarner’s life from a young age. Born Elizabeth Alice Bumgarner on Oct. 4, 1930, in Springfield, Ohio, Sister was taught by the Sisters of Charity from first through 12th grades at St. Joseph and Catholic Central High School, both in Springfield.

She entered the Community on Sept. 8, 1948, and ministered 30 years in education, teaching at schools in Michigan and Ohio. Her last 10 years (1970-’80) were spent as elementary principal at Holy Angels in Sidney, Ohio.

S. Rose Elizabeth chose a new direction for her ministry in 1981 after completing the ‘Active Spirituality for the Global Community’ program at the College of Mount St. Joseph. She became a house mother for Birth, Education, Training and Acceptance (BETA), a nonprofit organization that aids pregnant young women in crisis, located in Orlando, Fla. She ministered in that capacity for the next 18 years, transitioning to serve as director of mentors and tutors at the center, and then as a volunteer until 2005.

“She was such a wonderful role model as a strong, loving woman and as an educator,” S. Victoria Marie Forde added. “I believe she had visited the place in recent years and kept in touch with some of the women and their children. What a special ministry in which she had been such a guiding light.”

The current president and CEO of BETA, Ruth Patrick, remembered, “We could never adequately express the enormous impact that S. Rose had at BETA Center for more than two decades, especially in her role of house mother to the young mothers in our BETA house residence. She gave them loving guidance and also created a stable ‘home’ for them – a gift that many teens had never had before. S. Rose’s legacy at BETA will last forever; she will always be part of our BETA ‘family.’”

In 2005 S. Rose Elizabeth retired to the Motherhouse, offering many hours of service to the residents in Mother Margaret Hall and the Motherhouse Gift Shop.

S. Rose Elizabeth Bumgarner died June 26, 2012, in Mother Margaret Hall at the age of 81.

7

o

Welcoming Always friendly and kind Generous and helpful in a gracious way Faithful volunteer Accommodating p

S. Ann Paulette Burger

S.

Ann Paulette Burger was a woman “who loved God, her family and her Sisters of Charity Community,” said Sisters Timothy Ann Schroeder and Ann Elizabeth Von Hagel.

Born Jeanne Burger on Jan. 12, 1931, in Cincinnati, Ohio, S. Ann Paulette came to know the Sisters of Charity at a young age. She was taught by the Charities from first through 12th grades at Holy Family, St. Lawrence and Seton High School, all in Cincinnati. “When I decided to enter religious life after high school in 1949, there was no other Community that I seriously considered,” Sister once said.

o

Cheerful spirit with twinkling eyes and cute laugh Delightful True friend Loved all of nature, especially hummingbirds Wonderful sense of humor p

S. Ann Paulette spent her first 30 years with the Congregation ministering as an elementary teacher at schools in Ohio, Colorado and New Mexico. From 1981 until 1987, Sister served as an intermediate teacher at St. William School in Cincinnati before ministering for the next 19 years as a part-time elementary librarian at St. Ann and Holy Family, both in Cincinnati.

In 2006 S. Ann Paulette retired from ministry and began volunteering at the Mount St. Joseph Motherhouse offering her services in the Gift Shop, in Transportation and at the Front Desk. Sister also volunteered in the library of Our Lady of Lourdes (Cincinnati) one day each week and at Holy Family School as needed.

Sister enjoyed photography, coin collecting and playing cards. She was part of the “Card Club,” a group of 12 Sisters of Charity who have gathered for the last 27 years for a weekend at Lake Lorelei in Fayetteville, Ohio.

“Annie was a loyal member of our Card Club,” remembered S. Annette Marie Paveglio. “I always enjoyed her unique chuckle when she won a big pot - and she could hardly contain herself when she had a good hand. We were blessed with her kind heart and simple ways for many years.”

Many remember S. Ann Paulette for her deep love for her family and the Community. “This was expressed in her energetic and enthusiastic self-giving throughout her entire life,” said S. Peggy Rein.

S. Ann Paulette Burger died Feb. 23, 2012, in Mother Margaret Hall at the age of 81.

8

S. Teresa Chang

S.

Teresa Chang (formerly S. Marie Perboyre) was born on Jan. 21, 1916, in Hupeh, China. A convert to Catholicism, Sister joined the Church in 1930 at the age of 14. As a young girl she wanted to go into the nursing profession and in 1936, Sister began working in the training school with the Sisters of Charity at St. Joseph Hospital in Wuchang, China.

In her autobiographical writings Sister said she appreciated “the love and dedication of the Sisters. I saw their tenderness as they took care of the sick and their love and devotion to the poor. I only knew I wanted to live a life like theirs.” S. Teresa entered the Community in 1940.

In 1949 it became necessary for the Sisters to leave China in the wake of the Communist takeover. When S. Teresa came to the United States she attended the School of Nursing at Good Samaritan Hospital in Cincinnati, Ohio, where she obtained her licensed practical nursing degree while also performing sewing services for the Sisters of Charity in their Mount St. Joseph Motherhouse.

Beginning in 1952, S. Teresa worked the 12-hour night shift as a nurse aide at Mother Margaret Hall. She then ministered at Good Samaritan Hospital in Dayton, Ohio, and Mother Margaret Hall as an LPN for almost 30 years. Upon her retirement in 1986, S. Teresa served in Mother Margaret Hall as a patient companion for the sick and elderly Sisters.

S. Josetta Marie Chu and other Sisters remembered S. Teresa as knowledgeable in world history, current events and the history of her homeland. She was proud of herself and her story and happy to share it with others.

“For many years when I would see S. Teresa in the Motherhouse hallways, her face would burst into a smile and she would say hello. I loved this uplifting and cheerful greeting,” S. Mary Bookser remembered. “We would then go on our separate way. Even in Mother Margaret Hall, when I would see her, she would give me the same smile of loving recognition.”

S. Teresa Chang died Jan. 30, 2012, in Mother Margaret Hall at the age of 96.

9

o

Hosted a sweet, welcoming smile Nurse Kind, pleasant, saintly Loved to visit and talk about Reds baseball A gift to all p

S. Teresa Mary Chiou

S.

Teresa Mary Chiou “always had a sense of God’s presence about her,” said S. Katrinka Gunn. “She seemed so happy and was friendly to everyone. Her smile welcomed you into her life.”

S. Teresa Mary was born in Peking (now Beijing), China, to a Catholic, close-knit, loving family. Her father worked for the railroad so her family took many trips together. It was on a trip to Hankow that she first met the Sisters of Charity of Cincinnati; she knew immediately that she wanted to live with them. Sister began working in the training school with the Sisters at St. Joseph Hospital in Wuchang, China.

o

Prayerful Loved working with patients Gentle Interested in the news of the Community Loved Reds baseball p

S. Teresa Mary entered the Community in 1939, completing her novitiate in Wuchang. By 1949, it became necessary for the Sisters to leave China in the wake of the Communist takeover. When S. Teresa Mary came to the United States in 1948 she worked as a nurse aide at Mother Margaret Hall, St. Vincent Orphanage in Santa Fe, N.M., and Margery Reed Day Nursery in Denver, Colo.

In 1964 she began ministering as a LPN at St. Joseph Infant and Maternity Home (now St. Joseph Home) where she remained for 28 years; she served as a seamstress and an activity coordinator for the last three years.

S. Marianne Van Vurst, former St. Joseph Home director, remembered, “Dear, sweet and gentle S. Teresa Mary loved her Lord with her total being. I will always, and with great fondness, remember our times together at St. Joseph Home. She labored tirelessly for our residents.”

“I first met S. Teresa Mary when I volunteered at St. Joseph Home,” added S. Diana Durling. “She was always very friendly but extremely quiet. She worked diligently in the laundry. She appeared to enjoy life and was always busy doing thoughtful things for others. I especially enjoyed seeing her with the children. Her gentle ways were appreciated by those whose lives she touched.”

Sister retired to the Motherhouse in 1992, serving as a patient companion for the sick and elderly Sisters.

S. Teresa Mary died Dec. 20, 2012, in Mother Margaret Hall at the age of 97.

10

Associate Vivian Compton

A

ssociate Vivian Compton was born on Feb. 24, 1940, in Trinidad, Colo. She graduated from Holy Trinity High School in 1958, and following graduation left Trinidad to enter the Sisters of Charity.

Vivian earned a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and taught in Kensington, Md. After leaving the Community, she began a career at Detroit Edison that lasted 30 years. Retiring in 2002 she relocated to Taos, N.M., to enjoy the peace and tranquility of the Enchanted Circle. Vivian was involved in social justice issues throughout her life. She worked with inner city prostitutes, Central American refugees, victims of domestic violence and underprivileged children. She was a tireless advocate for women’s rights throughout her life.

“My best memories of Vivian are related to her generous spirit,” said S. Noreen Ellison, “a heart filled with charity. She supported with good energy and enthusiasm the activities we ventured together, especially those related to peace and justice ... and she enjoyed a good time along the way.”

Vivian had a great love for the beauty and wonder of Mother Nature.

She often took road trips simply to see new countryside and to look for wildlife.

“Vivian was educating me when she was just in high school,” S. Jean Miller said. “My third year as a professed Sister I was missioned to Trinidad, Colo. Coming from the ‘green’ of Ohio, I saw mostly brown in Fisher’s Peak. The high school student named Vivian would pick me up in her jeep and take me to the mountains to show me the beauty, the creativity and the diversity of Fisher’s Peak. It was no longer brown but glorious with not only new names for trees but an experience of a generous, talented, happy young woman, who laughed easily and spread that.”

Vivian made her commitment as an Associate in Mission on Aug. 11, 2008, at EarthConnection. She was surrounded by Sisters, Associates and other close friends. In her discernment she wrote: “I feel in my ‘heart of hearts’ that I never left the Sisters of Charity – my initial call was simply interrupted.”

Vivian Compton died Sept. 5, 2012, in Taos, N.M., at the age of 72.

11

o

In touch with life and its struggles Supporter of Sisters Witness Against War A best friend Loved the Sisters of Charity Generous with time and money p

S. Mary Jean Fields

S.

Mary Jean Fields (formerly S. Elizabeth Mary) was a “vibrant, beauty-filled person, who was a real inspiration to the Colorado Springs Charity community, especially the Associates; her spirit will be greatly missed,” remembered S. Jane Grosheider.

S. Mary Jean was born on Sept. 30, 1928, in Cincinnati, Ohio.

Educated by the Sisters of Charity from first through 12th grades, she once said, “The Sisters of Charity were always a force in my life.” She was particularly fond of her teacher at St. William, S. Dorothy Mary Ruther, who had a great influence on her because of her kindness to everyone.

o

Prayerful, contemplative Affirming Cheerleader Creative Loving, always made people feel comfortable p

S. Mary Jean was a Sister of Charity of Cincinnati for 64 years. She spent her first 30 years with the Congregation ministering as an elementary teacher, program director and principal at schools in Michigan and Ohio.

Much of her educational ministry involved providing quality programs for children with multiple disabilities.

A colleague at Springer School, S. Marianne Van Vurst saw S. Mary Jean become a leader in the field of learning disabilities. “S. Mary Jean’s dedication, tenacity and great humility developed a school that today is still recognized as one of the best in the country,” S. Marianne said. S. Mary Jean gave 13 quality years to the Cincinnati Springer Institute and Educational Foundation.

In 1978 Sister moved into campus ministry at Xavier University, Cincinnati, and 10 years of pastoral ministry followed at parishes in Colorado. In her jubilee journal S. Mary Jean wrote: “Introducing others to the contemplative journey has been my deepest joy. The parish setting afforded me such opportunities.”

In the 1990s, Sister began directing her energies to the Loyola University Institute for Ministry Extension (LIMEX Program) where she served as administrative liaison and director of studies. She worked with S.E.T. (Service, Empowerment, Transformation) of Colorado Springs as program coordinator, providing holistic health services to older adults.

S. Mary Jean retired in 2001, enjoying the beauty of Colorado and continuing to support a wide variety of environmental and justice causes.

S. Mary Jean Fields died June 7, 2012, at Good Samaritan Hospital in Cincinnati, Ohio, at the age of 83.

12

S. Grace Graber

S.

Grace Graber (formerly S. Grace Anton) was born Virginia Cecilia Graber on Sept. 17, 1922. A native of Pomeroy, Ohio, S. Grace attended Sacred Heart Grade School. Of those early years she wrote: “[I was a] sacristy girl, member of the children’s choir and in the sixth grade became organist at my parish. My mother gave me piano lessons and Msgr. Edwin Murphy paid for my pipe organ lessons.”

A Sister of Charity for 68 years, S. Grace dedicated her ministry to education. She spent more than 40 years teaching primary grades, giving piano and organ lessons, and teaching music to the children. “The great challenge was to ignite the spark that would make them hungry to learn, proud to achieve, courageous to overcome the difficult, to tap into their skills, to become creative and inventive,” she said.

S. Grace ministered in the dioceses of Cincinnati, Columbus, Ohio, and Detroit, Mich., during those years. She also served as parish organist for 12 years at St. Aloysius on the Ohio, Cincinnati, and also served as music instructor at St. Vincent de Paul, Cincinnati, for four years.

When S. Grace came to Mount St. Joseph she served as a volunteer organist in the Mother Margaret Hall chapel, frequently playing for daily liturgy. In addition she took harp lessons from S. Francis Noreen Medland.

S. Grace was a special friend to the Vine Street Neighborhood Service Center, frequently collecting basic items needed by the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood residents, according to S. Carol Ann Brockmeyer, center director. The staff nurses at Mother Margaret Hall where Sister was a resident considered her a “ray of sunshine.”

In 2003, at the time of her diamond jubilee celebration, S. Grace had the opportunity to visit her hometown of Pomeroy. The bed-and-breakfast that she stayed in with Sisters Rose Martin and Mary Martin Morand was the very house where S. Grace grew up, a 160-year-old Civil War house.

She was able to stay overnight in her former family home and sleep in her childhood bedroom.

S. Grace Graber died May 28, 2012, in Mother Margaret Hall at the age of 89.

13

o

Organist and singer Thoughtful of others’ needs Beautiful smile Loved music Sparkled p

S. Mary Ann Gutzwiller

“W

hen I think of the people in my life who have enjoyed being human beings, I think of S. Mary Ann Gutzwiller,” S. Mary Lou Knapke said. “She enjoyed being human and she enjoyed other human beings so much, calling me, and I believe each of the many people she encountered, into a deeper appreciation of being alive.”

S. Mary Ann (formerly S. Dominic) was born on May 1, 1931, in Cincinnati, Ohio. She was taught by the Sisters of Charity at St. Lawrence and Seton High School.

o

Enjoyed life Welcoming Good sense of humor Centered, full of love and kindness Appreciative p

S. Shirley Dix remembered her dear friend as “kind to everyone,” she said. “‘Gutz’ was very compassionate and had a great sense of humor. She took time to listen to each person she met.”

A Sister of Charity for 57 years, S. Mary Ann spent more than 40 years ministering in the dioceses of Cleveland, Ohio, Chicago, Ill., Lansing, Mich., and Birmingham, Ala., as an elementary teacher (38 years) and religious education coordinator (three years).

S. Mary Ann was an annual participant in the peaceful protests at Fort Benning, Ga., to bring about the closing of the School of the Americas.

She was an active advocate for justice and peace. In her autobiographical sketch Sister wrote: “My hope for the future is that we humans stop killing each other and take care of our planet. It’s the only one we have.”

In 1985 S. Mary Ann volunteered to be the liaison for the Extended Community when the Sisters of Charity made a concerted effort to reconnect with former members of the Congregation; she was instrumental in many women reestablishing relationships with members of the Community.

Associate Vicki Welsh remembered Sister as, “so dear, so full of life and zest and such a champion for justice and women – a Sister of Charity in every sense of the word.”

When S. Mary Ann retired in 2001, she saw retirement as an opportunity to be available to tutor children after school and to serve several terms on the Sisters of Charity Corporate Responsibility Committee.

S. Mary Ann Gutzwiller died April 3, 2012, at the age of 80.

14

Associate Sally Hart

A

ssociate Sarah Louise (O’Brien) Hart, known to all as Sally, was born on Nov. 21, 1926, in Cleveland, Ohio. She attended the College of Mount St. Joseph and graduated with a degree in sociology and a certificate in education. Sally was employed by the East End Adult Education Center in Cincinnati. She began as a volunteer and then taught and ran the volunteer program.

S. Delia Sizler, who was director at the center, remembers, “Having taught grade school for many years, Sally was wonderful with the Appalachian adult learners and helped them learn basic skills and gain the confidence they needed. I truly loved Sally and her special way of being Charity in so many settings.”

o

Sally had six children, 16 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.

She was a member of St. Bernadette parish for more than 60 years and an active volunteer at Mercy Hospital-Anderson.

One of our first Associates

Sally was among the first Associates with the Sisters of Charity of Cincinnati having made her commitment on April 11, 1976. She described the early focus as “a complement to the Sisters in their work.”

She watched and participated in the changes throughout those years of growth and expansion. She served on the Advisory Committee for the director of Associates in the 1990s.

Loved people of faith Always had a smile

“Sally always brought such a lively, joyful spirit to the Associate gatherings we had while I worked in the Associate Office,” said S. Mary Ann Humbert. “She could lift a whole group’s energy with her laugh and delightful exchanges. God’s light and love radiated through her.”

Loved the SC Community

Sally was a friend to all. “I met Sally in 1978 while I was applying to be a part of the program,” remembered Associate Pat Schloemer. “She and the others were so welcoming. I couldn’t wait to be a part of all of them. We would meet at each other’s homes or at the Sisters’ convents every month so we became very close by sharing prayer time and a social afterwards. I was blessed to have Sally and the others in my life.”

Treasured her family, especially her grandchildren

Sally Hart died on March 3, 2012, at the age of 85.

p 15

S. Rose Marie Hewitt

S.

Rose Marie Hewitt (the former S. Anna Marie) was born on July 30, 1934, in Grayling, Mich. S. Rose Marie was taught and companioned by the Sisters of Charity and the relationships she built with her teachers led her to enter the Community following high school graduation.

o

A woman of integrity, laughter, love and support Creative thinker Caring, prayerful, calm, loving, gentle Lived in the now, filled with joy and optimism A real ‘Sister of Charity’ p

A Sister of Charity for 59 years, S. Rose Marie embarked on a 28-year ministry in education, serving at schools in Ohio, Michigan and New Mexico. From 1983 until 1987 Sister ministered as the elementary principal at the Zuni Indian Reservation in Zuni, N.M. “S. Rose Marie was the first Sister of Charity I ever met,” remembered S. Carol Wirtz. “She was also my first principal at my first teaching position: second grade at St. Anthony Zuni Indian Mission. Little did I imagine the impact she would have on my life’s journey. I was discerning my vocation and felt so honored and excited when she invited me to consider the Sisters of Charity because I had such admiration and respect for her. I saw in S. Rose Marie the charism enfleshed. Her beautiful smile and twinkling eyes were an outward expression of a deep love of life, hospitality, compassion and attentiveness to each individual.”

In 1988 S. Rose Marie became director of the Congregation’s Ministry Office. She served in the ministry until 1994 when she became the coordinator of the New Beginnings program for the Diocese of Covington, Ky. There she companioned women and men who were divorced, separated and young widowed.

S. Florence (Rose) Izzo entered the Community with S. Rose Marie in 1953. “When I first met [Rose Marie] she was there with her sparkling eyes and black hair. We both were from Michigan and I thought maybe she was Italian, as was I. When I asked if she was, she said ‘no,’ so I walked away. We always laughed about that. Forever after we’ve been great friends,” S. Rose said. “She was a woman of God, full of happiness, thoughtfulness and support. You could always call on her and know she would be there.”

S. Rose Marie Hewitt died Oct. 4, 2012, at the age of 78.

16

Associate Helen Kaminski

A

ssociate Helen (Domey) Kaminski was born on Dec. 16, 1926, in Lynn, Mass. She received the Bachelor of Science degree from the College of St. Joseph in Vermont and a master’s degree in biology from the University of Notre Dame in Indiana. Helen taught high school biology in Vermont for 20 years. She described her husband, Walter, as her “best friend.” They had one son, Dean.

Helen made her commitment as an Associate in Mission in April 2001. Sisters Kay Willenborg, Mary Bodde and Mildred Shaver along with Associates Florence Kraemer, Marilyn Holland and Julie Rettel were among those present. In her application Helen wrote: “I would like to share my time, my prayers, whatever talents I have that will be of service, and the wisdom I have gained over my many years of living life!”

Helen was active in her parish, St. Paul of Tarsus in Clinton Township, Mich., after she retired. She served as a Eucharistic minister, writing in 2002 that she was “very honored to bring Christ to shut-ins.” Helen loved to dance. Up until the late 1990s she danced with the Syncopated Seniors performing at schools and nursing homes.

Helen shared more than dancing though, she shared her faith and love with so many. She once wrote: “I feel being an Associate will deepen my own love of God and make me more aware of finding God in the everyday, in the present moment; I guess in realizing that this present moment is blessed. I am truly blessed in becoming an Associate of the Sisters of Charity of Cincinnati.”

“When I first started as director of Associates I went to Michigan to meet the Associates there,” Associate Mary Jo Mersmann said. “S. Mary Bodde allowed me to stay with her and we had a gathering for the Sisters and Associates. That is the only time I was with Helen. Even though many did not know her, she lived the Charity charism in her life.”

Helen Kaminski died on Nov. 14, 2012, at the age of 85.

17

o

A woman of prayer Tap dancer Visitor to the homebound Biology teacher Ministry of writing cards of support and encouragement p

S. Mary Catherine Kelsey

S.

Mary Catherine Kelsey (formerly S. Ann Lorraine) was born on May 4, 1917, in Denver, Colo. Sister “loved her native Colorado,” remembered S. Barbara Hagedorn. “Her freedom of spirit and independence reflected her roots. She shared many good stories of her days in ministry which were filled with service as well as adventure.”

o

A good teacher Loved people and loved the West Irish Appreciative Gentle p

A Sister of Charity for 76 years, S. Mary Catherine began her teaching ministry in the primary grades at Resurrection School in Cincinnati. She served 55 years in education teaching children from elementary through high school in Catholic schools in Michigan, Ohio, Tennessee and New Mexico.

From 1969 until 1972, S. Mary Catherine immersed her talents in parish duties at Holy Family in Roy, N.M. “Sister worked with then Father Robert Sanchez, who later became the bishop,” remembered S. Pat Marie Bernard. “He spoke of her with much appreciation.”

Love and service were important to S. Mary Catherine. S. Vincent de Paul Grilliot remembered Sister’s compassion after having shoulder surgery.

S. Mary Catherine opened her home to Sister, giving up her bed so that S. Vincent de Paul had a comfortable place to rest and recuperate.

In retirement Sister served as a substitute teacher at St. Mary High School in Colorado Springs, Colo. She also volunteered with the local police department and served as Eucharistic minister at Penrose-St. Francis Hospital, Colorado Springs, as well as bringing Holy Communion to the homebound.

S. Jan Kroeger, OSF, assisted living coordinator at Mother Margaret Hall, enjoyed getting to know S. Mary Catherine in her later years.

“I so admired her sense of independence, her energy and her spunky attitude,” S. Jan said. “She told many stories about her beloved West – the mountains, the children she taught, and her family.”

Sister also enjoyed telling her experience of the great Ohio River flood in 1937. As a postulant S. Mary Catherine remembered, “We filled bucket after bucket with fresh water from the old outdoor pumps. We carried them from the first floor to the attic filling bathtubs throughout the house.

This was our only source of fresh water.”

S. Mary Catherine Kelsey died Jan. 22, 2012, in Mother Margaret Hall at the age of 94.

18

S. Dorothy Macey

S.

Dorothy Macey (formerly S. Joseph Marie) was born on Nov. 22, 1922, in Medina, Ohio. The sixth in a family of eight girls, S. Dorothy entered the Vincentian Sisters of Charity of Bedford, Ohio, in 1945, joining her sister, S. Mary Patricia Ann. A Sister of Charity for 67 years, S. Dorothy earned the Bachelor of Science in Education from St. John’s College, Cleveland, Ohio, in 1959. S. Dorothy ministered for 30 years in education teaching at schools in the Diocese of Cleveland, Ohio.

“I was blessed to have S. Dorothy as a teacher in second, third and fourth grades,” remembered S. Margaret Mach. “I will always remember how kind and gentle she was. Even at this young an age, it was obvious to me that she loved teaching and really cared about her students. Along with my first grade teacher, she inspired my vocation to religious life. I wanted to be just like her.”

After the experience of teaching junior high religion, S. Dorothy felt called to serve as a pastoral minister; this she happily did for 10 years at St. Clarence, a new parish in Olmsted, Ohio, (1979-’81) and at St. Pius X, Bedford, Ohio, (1981-’89). She once said of the latter, “I find ministry here at St. Pius very satisfying because the parishioners have become a vibrant part of my life.”

o

Prayerful Faithful, always looking to help others Dedicated to family and friends

S. Mary Ann Flannery spoke of S. Dorothy’s kind manner and patience. “I never saw her angry or out-of-sorts. She loved teaching so much I was surprised that initially she wanted to be a nurse, but the pressing need at the time was for teachers. S. Dorothy accepted it without complaining.” S. Mary Ann added the students adored S. Dorothy and would flock to her after Mass – sometimes to her embarrassment because of all the attention.

Loved all of God’s creation

S. Dorothy served as sacristan and substitute teacher in her early retirement years. In 2010 she moved to Mother Margaret Hall, where she served in the Ministry of Prayer.

p

S. Dorothy Macey died Nov. 18, 2012, in Mother Margaret Hall at the age of 89.

19

Helpful

S. Mary Patrice Mahoney

S.

Mary Patrice Mahoney “was a true Irish woman, full of patience and faith; she never complained even though she could not see or hear well for the past decade. She could see the hand of God in everything,” S. Pat McNally recalled.

S. Mary Patrice was born Mary Elizabeth Mahoney on May 31, 1913, in Springfield, Ohio. Born and raised in Springfield, the Sisters of Charity were a part of Sister’s life from a young age. She was taught by the Charities from first through 12th grades at St. Joseph and Catholic Central High School.

o

Wonderful sense of humor Prayerful Very pleasant and friendly Loved people Master teacher p

A Sister of Charity of Cincinnati for 79 years, S. Mary Patrice taught high school Latin for more than 30 years. In addition, Sister ministered as secondary principal at schools in Ohio and Michigan from 1951 until 1966.

Former student Patricia Polito remembered, “[S. Mary Patrice] taught Latin to me and my brother Jack at St. Rose in Lima. What a wonderful instructor and spiritual woman we had in her as our high school principal!”

In 1995 S. Mary Patrice retired to the Motherhouse serving in the Ministry of Prayer. There she enjoyed visits from former students, especially those whom she had mentored as Latin teachers. S. Mary Alice Stein was taught by Sister in Lima, Ohio. “S. Mary Patrice was the first Sister of Charity that I met after my dad was transferred to Lima when I was a seventh grader,” she said. “She so graciously met my mom and me, took me to my classroom, and introduced me to the teacher and the class.

When I moved on to high school at St. Rose, she taught me Latin I and II. Later we lived together in Jackson, Mich., at St. Mary’s. She is one of the Sisters who inspired me.”

S. Marie Karen Sammons added, “S. Mary Patrice taught me many things about community life and character. She was a good listener and compassionate. She helped to make my first year on mission a good one. I am grateful for our friendship.”

S. Mary Patrice Mahoney died March 9, 2012, in Mother Margaret Hall at the age of 98.

20

S. Margaret Mary McCullough

S.

Margaret Mary (Marge) McCullough (formerly S. Catherine Roberta) “was a very balanced person who knew how to enjoy simple pleasures, especially in nature,” S. Emily Anne Phelan said of her dear friend. “She was fun, prayerful, helpful and adventuresome.”

Born on May 6, 1929, in Cincinnati, Ohio, S. Marge was a Sister of Charity for 64 years. Sister ministered in education for 20 years as both teacher and principal in Ohio, Kentucky, Michigan and New Mexico.

Parish ministry was a career change S. Marge welcomed in 1977 when she worked at St. Elizabeth parish in Ravenna, Ky., until 1979 and again from 1980 until 1983. S. Dorothy William Englert remembered Sister’s ministry in Ravenna. “S. Marge threw herself into working with the handful of parishioners, many of whom were widows or women in mixed marriages with little family support,” she said. “She also started the religious education program for the handful of children and was very involved with the summer Bible schools. She was a dedicated and caring person, a good listener and a woman of faith.”

“I was a first-year medical student and looking for a summer experience in Appalachia,” remembered S. Janet Gildea. “Sisters Marge and Dorothy William Englert welcomed me into their home and their lives in Ravenna.

S. Marge introduced me to our Sisters of Charity culture as well as Appalachian culture. She taught me how to use the Christian Prayer Book, listened to my adventures at Estill County Hospital, and gave me my first mint julep! They both listened to my discerning heart that summer, giving me space to question and wonder, and taught me much about SC hospitality.”

S. Marge transitioned into pastoral ministry in 1984 serving at parishes in Ohio and Kentucky. She also ministered as director of religious education for the joint education commission in the Norwood, Ohio, parishes from 1989 until 1991. In 1995 she chose to offer her services to Mother Margaret Hall in the medical records department until 2008.

S. Marge McCullough died Feb. 2, 2012, in Mother Margaret Hall at the age of 82.

21

o

Prayerful Had her feet on the ground An inspiration in suffering Wonderful listener Communityminded p

S. Mary Paul Medland

S.

Mary Paul Medland was born on June 6, 1940, in New York, N.Y. Growing up in New York and Chicago, Ill., S. Mary Paul attended mostly Catholic schools. From the fifth grade on she often thought of becoming a Sister. It wasn’t until her dad’s cousin, S. Francis Noreen Medland, invited her family to Mount St. Joseph, Ohio, for a visit that Sister found her call. Two months after the visit S. Mary Paul entered the Sisters of Charity of Cincinnati.

o

Friendly Hospitable Gathered her Band members for parties and fun Loved communicating through the computer Devoted to Mother Margaret Hall Sisters p

A Sister of Charity for 53 years, S. Mary Paul spent more than 20 years ministering in elementary education in the dioceses of Cincinnati and Washington, D.C. Following her years teaching she served as an administrative assistant at Connelly Home in Cincinnati, a home for mentally challenged women that provides them the opportunity to live in an independent setting.

Sister’s compassion, smile and interest in all those she met were a gift to our Sisters and Associates. “She seemed to keep up with what everyone was doing and always asked about specific things the people she met were involved in,” S. Patricia Wittberg said.

“She had a unique way of bringing joy and happiness to all she served and loved,” Associate Barbara Raymond added. “She was a vital link in both Sisters and Associates lives.”

In 2000 S. Mary Paul began working in pastoral care at Mother Margaret Hall. Sister saw becoming a certified chaplain as a most satisfying, yet challenging ministry; she appreciated the opportunities for continuing education and learning from others in the field.

S. Regina Kusnir came in touch with the deep love S. Mary Paul had for the Sisters in Mother Margaret Hall. “She knew each in a very personal way, and had great respect for them,” S. Regina said.

“S. Mary Paul was the essence of cheerfulness, of joy in the Lord. She had a constant smile that welcomed anyone who came into her presence.

She loved sharing this joy at Mother Margaret Hall,” said S. Mary Ann Flannery.

S. Mary Paul Medland died Oct. 26, 2012, at the age of 72.

22

S. Ann Mojzisik

S.

Ann Mojzisik (formerly S. Ann Louise) was born Helen Catherine Mojzisik on May 27, 1926, in Cleveland, Ohio, to hardworking immigrants of Slovak descent. A Sister of Charity for 71 years, S. Ann entered the Vincentian Sisters of Charity of Bedford, Ohio, in 1940 at the age of 14.

S. Ann earned a bachelor’s degree in education from St. John’s College in 1955. She taught at the primary level for more than 30 years, serving the Diocese of Cleveland throughout. A close friend, S. Mary Ann Flannery, acknowledged that S. Ann was a marvelous primary teacher. “She was very gentle with her students and exceptionally talented and creative in getting her objectives achieved in the classroom,” she said. “When she made the transition to parish ministry, she applied herself to the education of adults without skipping a beat.”

S. Ann moved into parish ministry in 1979 at St. Clarence in North Olmsted, Ohio, and remained there until 1983. Sister wrote in an autobiographical sketch: “It was in this role that I became extremely conscious and sensitive to the diversity of needs existing on a parish level, beyond the classroom. Adults, as well as children, need someone to listen to them.”

After completing her master’s degree in pastoral counseling from Loyola College in Baltimore, Md., S. Ann sought a place where she could utilize and integrate the skills she had learned. Sister wanted a Christian setting and found one in the Interfaith Samaritan House Counseling Center in Lakewood, Ohio. She listened and ministered to adult clients at Samaritan House for 16 years (1985-2001).

“I am happy I got to know S. Ann while I was living at Villa San Bernardo in Bedford in 2010,” S. Delia Sizler said. “S. Ann, being a retired counselor, and I had some good sharing time around our experience in the ministry of counseling.”

In retirement S. Ann moved to the Mount St. Joseph Motherhouse where she enjoyed reading, quiet walks on the grounds and serving in the Ministry of Prayer.

S. Ann Mojzisik died May 9, 2012, in the Motherhouse at the age of 85.

23

o

Counselor Wise Prayerful Willing to listen and help Full of peace p

Associate Kathryn Moore

B

orn in Albuquerque, N.M., on Nov. 23, 1923, Associate Kathryn “Kay” Moore was a lifetime resident of New Mexico and an Associate of the Sisters of Charity of Cincinnati for 20 years.

“I remember Kay Moore, who was so proud to be a SC Associate, as always being so gracious and generous in opening her lovely home for Sister and Associate gatherings for prayer, celebrations, sharing and discussions,” said S. Pat Marie Bernard.

o

Loved the Sisters of Charity Generous with time and treasures Opera enthusiast Welcomed Sisters and Associates into her home Active volunteer

Kay met her husband, Thurman, while working at the Santa Fe Civil Service Recruiting and Induction Center during World War II and they married in 1942. Kay and Thurman had two sons and two daughters during their 44 years of marriage. They also had four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

In her professional life, Kay worked at Sandia National Laboratories for 15 years. She began her volunteer career at St. Joseph Hospital in 1976, and became manager of the St. Joseph Healthcare Systems’ three gift shops in 1986. She remained in that position until her retirement in 2006 at the age of 82.

Kay was involved as a volunteer with the St. Joseph Hospital Auxiliary for more than 30 years, serving as its president for two consecutive terms.

Her volunteer hours numbered in the thousands. She was responsible for the completion of a $300,000 pledge drive enabling the opening of a new Critical Care Unit for St. Joseph Hospital and always met 100 percent of her goals in fundraising. She became president of the New Mexico Hospital Association Auxiliary Service in 1999. Through her volunteer work, Kay was responsible for raising $1 million to benefit patient care and provide educational opportunities. In recognition she was inducted into the Silver Horizons New Mexico Senior Hall of Fame in 2004.

“Kay was a great lady, and a woman of strong commitments,” said S. Annina Morgan. “I got to know her somewhat when I gave a couple of retreats for the Associates in Albuquerque many years ago.”

Kay Moore died Jan. 9, 2012, at the age of 88.

p 24

S. Geraldine O’Hagan

S.

Geraldine O’Hagan was born on March 24, 1929, in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, Canada. S. Geraldine was proud of her Canadian roots. Her family moved to Detroit, Mich., just in time for her to start the first grade at St. Leo School, where the Sisters of Charity taught for many years.

S. Geraldine said she could not remember a time in her life that she didn’t want to be a Sister. In her golden jubilee reflections she remarked, “I was greatly impressed by the kindness and love of S. Margaret Ellen at St. Leo School.” She entered religious life on Sept. 6, 1946, and was a Sister of Charity for 65 years.

S. Geraldine earned her Bachelor of Science in Education from the College of Mount St. Joseph, Cincinnati, Ohio, in 1964 and the master’s of education in reading from Marygrove College, Detroit, Mich., in 1973.

Sister ministered in Catholic elementary schools for 46 years in Ohio, Colorado and Michigan. She began her teaching at St. Rita School for the Deaf in Cincinnati in 1948.

In 1995 S. Geraldine returned to Cincinnati. She began serving as receptionist for the Executive Offices of the Congregation. This she was doing at the time of her death, a position that she loved.

“Geri was such a gift to us in the Leadership/Executive Offices,” remembered S. Georgia Kitt. “She greeted visitors with her warm, welcoming smile. She made life happen on the Fifth Floor of St. Mary’s by keeping it real. She kept all items frequently needed ‘in stock’ plus always made sure we had a clean refrigerator and organized cupboards.

Get well and sympathy cards were promptly circulated for signatures; Congregational mailings received her immediate attention; and all plants were watered regularly. Her decorations for each of the seasons helped us celebrate birthdays, Christmas, Easter, etc. as ‘community.’”

S. Geraldine enjoyed renewing old acquaintances, seeing friends and living on the Motherhouse property. With her love of nature – cats, dogs and gardening – Sister filled her days with a deep appreciation of the beauty of God’s creation.

S. Geraldine O’Hagan died May 4, 2012, in Mother Margaret Hall at the age of 83.

25

o

A pleasant presence Her Irish eyes were ‘twinkling’ Enjoyed flowers, always had a beautiful garden Loved animals, especially dogs A patient sufferer p

S. Gertrudis Pfeiffer

S.

Gertrudis Pfeiffer was born on June 16, 1921, in Hessen, Westphalia, Germany. S. Gertrudis came to the United States with her parents and brother at the age of 4.

Sister had her first contact with the Sisters of Charity in her senior year of high school when her brother became seriously ill. During his hospitalization at Good Samaritan Hospital, Cincinnati, she met S. Beatrix and was attracted to nursing. The call to religious life and nursing remained, and a few years later, in February 1940, she entered the Sisters of Charity.

o

Nurse Beautiful voice Lived up to her German heritage Concerned about others Long suffering, patient, wholesome p

A Sister of Charity for 72 years, S. Gertrudis served as a nurse in Michigan, Ohio, New Mexico and Colorado. In 1949 she established the first school of practical nursing in the state of New Mexico at St. Vincent Hospital, Santa Fe. She also directed the practical nursing program as well as ministered as a nursing instructor and outpatient clinic nurse at Good Samaritan Hospital in Cincinnati.

S. Pat Marie Bernard ministered with S. Gertrudis at St. Vincent Hospital in Santa Fe. “S. Gertrudis ran a tip-top, first class LPN program,” S. Pat Marie recalls.

S. Roslyn Hafertepe remembers S. Gertrudis for her willingness to share her gifts with members of her Community. “In the early days,” S. Roslyn said, “when so many were changing ministries [S. Gertrudis] shared her insights and ideas on ‘life planning.’ In those days it was referred to more often as retirement planning and health and wellness.

I will never forget her emphasis and focus on mind, body and spirit integration. She did everything with great dedication and zeal.”

From 1953 to 1982, she held positions as instructor in programs of nursing education at the American Health Center in Plantation, Fla. In 1983 S. Gertrudis transitioned to parish ministry to the elderly. Of this ministry she said, “Because of my nursing background I probably have greater compassion and more understanding of their illnesses. Being able to visit shut-ins and let them know someone really cares about them brings a little cheer into their day.”

S. Gertrudis Pfeiffer died April 9, 2012, in Mother Margaret Hall at the age of 90.

26

S. Marian Schlueter

S.

Marian Schlueter (formerly S. Mary Dominic) was born Marian Edith Schlueter on May 6, 1924, in Cincinnati, Ohio. Born and raised in Cincinnati, S. Marian attended St. Matthew Elementary School and Regina High School before entering the Sisters of Charity in 1942.

S. Marian was proud of her 50-year ministry in education which included the states of New Mexico, Illinois, Michigan and Ohio. In her autobiography S. Marian refers to the special time she spent as principal at San Felipe in Albuquerque, N.M. “My greatest satisfaction came at San Felipe convent and school,” she said. “Achievement results improved so much that the superintendent of schools questioned how we did it. Many of our children were bilingual. To encourage the parents to send their children to the Head Start program, I visited them. So many benefitted from the program that Sargent Shriver (founder of the national child development Head Start program) gave me a special award.”

“S. Marian was our superior and principal at San Felipe in Albuquerque,” remembered S. Noreen Ellison. “She had a wonderful sense of humor, SC simplicity and a heart of hospitality. She helped us have a ‘happy house’ and was always open to what presented itself and to opportunities for all of us. We had much joy in simple living and enjoying the multi-cultural environment all around us.”

In her retirement years S. Marian pursued her love of art and served as a volunteer at Good Samaritan Hospital, Cincinnati, receiving her five-year pin in 1999.

A dear friend, S. Mary Grafe recalls S. Marian’s love of life and the affirmations she gave to others. “I don’t think she ever met a stranger; she was such a delightful person that people felt at ease with her,” S. Mary said.

S. Rose Virginia Brown added, “S. Marian always had a wonderful sense of humor. She could see the funny side of any topic. She also had a sense of wonder for all God’s creatures and all God’s creations. The simple things in life pleased her.”

S. Marian Schlueter died March 17, 2012, in Mother Margaret Hall at the age of 87.

27

o

Gracious Wonderful principal and superior Could deal with extreme poverty with a smile Strong teacher Artist p

S. Rosemary Schmid

S.

Rosemary Schmid (formerly S. Mary Magdalena) was born on Feb. 11, 1932, in Dayton, Ohio. S. Rosemary was a Sister of Charity for 61 years.

Sister earned her Bachelor of Science in Education from the College of Mount St. Joseph, Cincinnati, Ohio, in 1962 and a master’s in religious education from The Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C. in 1972.

o

Spiritual, prayerful, loving Story teller Artistic, creative Interested in justice issues Never knew a stranger p

“We went to school together at Catholic University,” remembered S. Laetitia Slusser, “and when she was at El Pomar and later in eastern Colorado our paths crossed frequently. S. Rosemary had a unique way of expressing her insights. She loved teaching, was interested in people and was especially concerned about the poor.”

S. Rosemary’s ministries included elementary and religious education in Ohio, Michigan, Illinois, Colorado and Kentucky and three years in the foreign missions in Mañazo and Lima, Peru. For nine years she did retreat work at El Pomar Retreat Center in Colorado Springs, Colo., and in numerous parish settings in the Cincinnati area.

“S. Rosemary had a missionary spirit and ministered in Peru until that proved to be too arduous for her,” S. Delia Sizler said. “She came home and knew the words of Jesus, ‘the poor you will have with you always.’ I visited her in her ministries in Colorado, when she served the migrant workers who worked in the melon fields, bringing them instruction and understanding.”

From a 1990 interview S. Rosemary said, “I do think that God lives in the poor. Their faith is a powerful presence of God to me. The poor in the U.S. taught me of an almost greater sadness than the material poverty of Bolivia or Peru.”

When Sister moved to the Motherhouse she loved the natural surroundings and the beauty of the chapel. S. Rosemary saw the leisure hours as time to keep up on NPR and international radio broadcasts, to read, to be an advocate for the poor, to be faithful to our care for the Earth and to be more attentive to God’s presence and goodness.

S. Rosemary Schmid died May 5, 2012, at Cincinnati Good Samaritan Hospital at the age of 80.

28

S. Mary Imelda Sekerak

“O

ne of the qualities S. Mary Imelda Sekerak embodied that always inspired me was her unwavering commitment to service and helpfulness,” said S. Dorothy Ann Blatnica.

“If there was a need, her response was immediate and unquestioning. It was just a given for her to be responsive to another’s need. A heart filled with charity, indeed.”

Born Elizabeth Mary Sekerak on Jan. 5, 1919, in Nanty Glo, Pa., S. Imelda entered the Vincentian Sisters of Charity of Bedford, Ohio, in 1933. She was a Sister of Charity for 78 years.

S. Imelda earned a Bachelor of Science in elementary education from St. John’s College, Cleveland, Ohio, in 1948. For 42 years Sister taught kindergarten through fourth grade students in Catholic schools in the Cleveland area.

From 1983 until 1988, S. Imelda served as coordinator for the Motherhouse Sisters in Bedford. S. Regina Kusnir remembered, “I admired her ability in later years to take on responsibilities that she felt were beyond her ability. She spent some years as Motherhouse coordinator in Bedford.

Not the easiest of ministries, she tried to look out for the Sisters and gave it her all. In the process, she made friends and found support.”

o

Devoted to the sick Brought cheer and a smile Prayerful, gentle, loving

In 1988 Sister answered a call to work with the poor of Bell County, Ky. For the next 18 years Sister educated adult citizens, teaching literacy at the Interfaith Center located in Pineville, Ky. In addition she provided tutoring and pastoral ministry services at St. Anthony parish and made weekly visits to patients in Pineville Community Hospital.

Loved to play ‘Skip-Bo’

In 2007 S. Imelda retired; she filled her days with prayer, visiting the residents in Mother Margaret Hall, and enjoying word puzzles and a variety of computer games.

Great concern for others

“S. Imelda truly embodied the qualities of Vincent, Louise and Elizabeth in her gentle and attentive ways with others,” said S. Cheryl Ann Grenier. “Every day she faithfully sat by the side of S. Genevieve Bankowski and held her hand while attending the Mass via the chapel TV channel. She said that Sister would know she was there.”

p

S. Imelda Sekerak died June 16, 2012, at Cincinnati Good Samaritan Hospital at the age of 93.

29

S. Rose Edward Simons

S.

Rose Edward Simons was born Rose Marie Simons on Dec. 9, 1924, in Lima, Ohio. A Sister of Charity for 69 years, S. Rose Edward wrote: “My call to religious life was a very clear invitation from the Lord when one day at the age of 16, He said to me in my heart with persuasive sweetness, ‘I want you!’ From that day on I wanted nothing else than to become a Sister of Charity. I had no thought of entering any other order because I was educated by the Sisters of Charity at St. John in Lima, Ohio.”

o

Dedicated worker Loved music Devoted to her friends Appreciative Had her own unique spirituality p

S. Rose Edward ministered exclusively in the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Ohio, initially as an elementary music teacher. Later Sister served in the health care ministry at Mother Margaret Hall.

Sister began her music teaching career in 1943 at St. Teresa in Springfield, Ohio, serving there for four years. She moved to Cincinnati in 1947 to teach at St. Joseph Orphanage until 1949, when she began teaching music to the children at St. Boniface.

For 12 years (1952-’64) Sister ministered as a nurse aide in Mother Margaret Hall and as an EKG technician (1964-’72) in the same facility.

S. Rose Edward became the supervisor of Central Services Department at Mother Margaret Hall in 1972, where she ministered until retired in 1994. Sister lovingly served as a companion to the sick and elderly Sisters in Mother Margaret Hall until 1998. She also helped out as a mail sorter in 1999.

S. Maria Dolorata Felix, former nursing supervisor at Mother Margaret Hall, remembered S. Rose Edward as a woman who “loved her vocation as a Sister of Charity. She was very dedicated to her duties. She was a perfectionist in being accountable for all supplies and equipment in our nursing home Central Services Department. She was a true friend to her friends and she loved her family very much.”

S. Mary Kathryn McFerrin added, “[S. Rose Edward] was one of the most conscientious people I have ever known, a very hard worker.”

S. Rose Edward Simons died Jan. 9, 2012, in Mother Margaret Hall at the age of 87.

30

Associate Karl Sunderhaus

A

ssociate Karl Sunderhaus was born June 11, 1934, in Cincinnati, Ohio. When his siblings joined the Army, Karl was only 15 but quit school and enlisted as well. He served as a military policeman in the Korean War. He was a professional truck driver for 42 years. When he retired he volunteered in the SC Transportation Department. He eventually was hired part-time.

Karl was married to Josie for many years until an illness took her life. They never had children. Karl found comfort from this loss in his faith, family and relationship with the Sisters of Charity. Karl studied and learned all about the Community and made his original commitment on June 8, 2003.

In his discernment Karl wrote: “I thank God for bringing me to this time of my life, allowing me to do the work that I am able to do. I have been blessed all my life and can now pay back to God some of what is due by helping other people with an open heart.”

“I don’t think I ever met another man who loved the Catholic faith in general and the Sisters of Charity in particular more than Karl,” said Associate Vicki Welsh. “He showed deference, loyalty, devotion and unwavering love in all circumstances.”

Karl was a generous man with his time, his talent and his treasure. Karl donated one month for three years serving at St. Vincent Hotel for the Homeless in Dayton, Ohio. S. Marie Karen Sammons said, “Karl was so Christ-like in so many ways. We had three happy summers with him [at St. Vincent’s]. He loved working in the laundry and our clients and staff loved him.”

Karl married his new bride, Joyce, in 2009. He was active in his parish, St. Joseph, North Bend. His greatest joy was taking Communion to the homebound. Karl had a deep love for the Eucharist and would attend daily Mass and Adoration. In his generosity, he donated the St. Joseph statue outside the church along with the memorial bricks to the Sisters of Charity who taught religion and were pastoral ministers.

Karl Sunderhaus died on Oct. 20, 2012, at the age of 78.

31

o

Dedicated Loved the Eucharist Prayerful Gentle Generous, loyal p

S. Martha Seton Tsai

“I

celebrate and am in deep gratitude for the example of S. Martha Seton Tsai’s loving, patient and most generous spirit through the years!” said S. Pat Marie Bernard.

S. Martha Seton was born on Oct. 25, 1921, in Peking (now Beijing), China. She received her initial education in Peking and at the age of 16 chose to attend nursing school at St. Joseph Hospital in Wuchang, China, a mission of the Sisters of Charity of Cincinnati.

o

A blessing Supportive Prayerful Loved to be teased Quiet, sensitive soul p

From Sister’s autobiographical writings we learn that she came from a family of deep Catholic ancestors, where they were taught to love, respect and pray together as a family. She entered the Sisters of Charity in 1939 and was missioned to St. Vincent Orphanage in San Kang Kow, China, in 1941.

With the war underway by December 1941, the Japanese demanded all Americans to leave, so the American Sisters ministering in Wuchang went to Shanghai and six Chinese Sisters remained to operate St. Joseph Hospital. “We survived as best we could without food or funds, gathering branches from the woods for fuel and doing what we needed to do to get by,” S. Martha Seton wrote. By 1949 it was necessary for all the Sisters to leave China in the wake of the Communist takeover.

When S. Martha Seton came to the United States she worked as a seamstress at the Mount St. Joseph Motherhouse and Dayton’s Good Samaritan Hospital. After receiving histology training she served as a tissue lab technician at Good Samaritan Hospital in Cincinnati, ministering there for 15 years.

S. Martha Seton retired in 1982, but continued as a patient companion for the sick and elderly Sisters, often accompanying them to medical appointments. She also enjoyed learning ceramics under S. Emmanuel in her retirement years.

S. Mary Helen McKenna recalled that peace, joy, patience and wisdom characterized this noble Chinese Sister. “She loved beauty and gifted us with it in her person,” she said. “S. Martha Seton also savored quietly and unassumingly … the depths of the riches and wisdom of God …”

S. Martha Seton Tsai died May 18, 2012, in Mother Margaret Hall at the age of 90.

32

S. Grace Verba

“W

hen I think of S. Grace Verba, I am reminded of a quote someone shared with me when I was a novice: ‘Joy is the echo of God’s life in us,’” said S. Margaret Mach. “Gracie reflected God’s life by her ready genuine smile, joyful countenance, her gentle spirit and her generosity. The name ‘Grace’ fit her so well. I always felt graced in her presence.”

S. Grace (formerly S. Mary Grace Levocha) was born on Oct. 10, 1919, in Jersey City, N.J. A Sister of Charity for 73 years, S. Grace entered the Vincentian Sisters of Charity of Bedford, Ohio, in 1938.

S. Grace’s years of ministry included the Ohio cities of Cleveland, Youngstown, Bedford, Barberton, Akron, Solon and Northfield.

Throughout her 38 years of teaching the primary grades Sister found great joy in preparing the children for reception of the Sacraments of Penance and Holy Eucharist. We read in her autobiography that she loved the first grade best. “They came not knowing anything and left knowing something. It’s so joyous. Their faces beam when they understand,” Sister said.

o

Prayerful Delightful

“You could not find a sweeter, kinder person to live with than S. Grace,” S. Mary Ann Flannery said. “She was perceptive when it came to humor, laughed readily and caught even the most subtle of jokes. She loved children and was a remarkable teacher in the primary grades.”

Beautiful example of growing older gracefully

S. Grace retired from the classroom in 1984 and began her years of volunteer service which included Lumen Cordium High School and Light of Hearts Villa, both in Bedford, where she served as an office aide.

Interested in each person

“Retired for many, many years Gracie was a phenomenal help to our leadership teams,” remembered S. Regina Kusnir. “Untold the number of gifts she wrapped beautifully. Her ability to be confidential found her sorting, filing, working with varied assignments. After the merger in 2004, Gracie decided that she would move to the Mount. For her it was an easy decision and she delighted in making new friends.”

Had a smile for all

S. Grace Verba died Feb. 29, 2012, in Mother Margaret Hall at the age of 93.

33

p

S. Mary Carol Wintzinger

S.

Mary Carol Wintzinger was born on Sept. 24, 1926. In her autobiographical sketch S. Mary Carol wrote she never considered any other Congregation when she began to think of a religious vocation. S. Mary Carol was a student of the Sisters of Charity for 12 years at Immaculata, Mount Adams, and St. Mary, Hyde Park, both in Cincinnati, Ohio. She was a Sister of Charity for 66 years.

o

Devoted to our Blessed Mother Quiet, prayerful Advocate for Right to Life An inspiration to many Dedicated to her family and friends p

A childhood friend, S. Grace Schwietering, recalls she and S. Mary Carol planned to enter the Sisters of Charity together in 1944, but S. Mary Carol was forced to change her plans due to the sudden death of her father. Her only sibling, her beloved brother, Roland, was in the Army.

Sister’s mother needed her, so she postponed entering for three years.

S. Grace said, “Through all of this S. Mary Carol drew strength and courage from her passionate devotion to Our Blessed Mother. This devotion remained a constant throughout her life.”

Sister spent 28 years as an elementary teacher and religious educator, serving in the states of Michigan and Ohio. In 1969 S. Mary Carol became the principal of St. Mary School in Marion, Ohio, where she remained until 1984. She called those years her most challenging because they “provided many opportunities for living the role as spiritual leader in the parish and community.”

Sister received her master’s degree in religious studies from Mundelein College, Chicago, Ill., in 1974. “I learned all the newest thinking in catechetics and theology,” Sister once said. Using the benefits of her degree S. Mary Carol moved into pastoral ministry at Resurrection, New Albany, Ohio, (1984-’87). She returned to the classroom for the next nine years, retiring in 1996.

In her retirement years S. Mary Carol was a most faithful volunteer at Right to Life of Greater Cincinnati. She was very happy to have more time to pray, write letters and send cards to family and friends. She also helped at the Project Excel Program at the College of Mount St. Joseph, Cincinnati.

S. Mary Carol Wintzinger died Nov. 1, 2012, at hospice in Blue Ash, Ohio, at the age of 86.

34

Flowers I love these frail and gentle things, That bear the name of flowers – For they are like the angel wings That hued our childhood’s hours.

So softly clad in summer light, And glistening with the dew, They image all that’s fair and bright, And beautiful and true.

O they are types of friends that smile Upon our cheerless way, And make the heart forget its guile, And cast its cares away.

And yet like friends, they drop and fade, Too frail to linger here, But when their leaves are all decayed, Their fragrance hovers near.

The flowers are friends, and friends are flowers – In love and beauty given, The one to light our darkest hours, And both to mirror heaven.

This poem, signed by Mother Margaret George, appears in her diary.

The image of the lily of the valley is taken from a page in Mother Margaret George’s scrapbook.

5900 Delhi Road Mount St. Joseph, Ohio 45051 513-347-5300 www.srcharitycinti.org www.facebook.com/sistersofcharityofcincinnati