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SUMMER 2017 | ALUMNI & FRIENDS MAGAZINE
Congratulations to the graduating class of 2017!
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WLHS Juniors Earn Perfect ACT Scores!
“The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” Deuteronomy 31:8
GUIDED BY FAITH. DRIVEN BY EXCELLENCE.
Welcome
A Message from Pastor Kenneth Fisher President of the WLHS Conference Holy Spirit At Work In Students’ Hearts On Sunday, May 28, 2017, 150 seniors walked across the stage and into the ranks of WLHS alumni. We can be proud of their accomplishments here and pray for them as they continue their next life steps in college and careers. We are confident that through the Spirit’s work they’ll live productive, Christ-centered lives. The Holy Spirit is at work here every day. I want to share two examples of his power in the lives of our students. The first example is John Lin who came to WLHS from China as an unbeliever. He leaves as a confessing Christian and confirmed member of the WELS. He spoke at Senior Chapel about how he came to faith. It was powerful when he said, “I started praying on my own one day before I went to sleep. Then I realized the Holy Spirit had planted faith in my heart without me ever knowing it . . . Finally, I was baptized.” He was also confirmed the same day. The second example is John Kiesow who just graduated. John lives with autism and spoke after chapel when he was “Principal for a Day.” No one knew exactly what John would say. The room of more than seven hundred and fifty teenagers started to get a little rowdy when he stepped to the lectern and said, “Howdy wowdy!” Then John silenced the entire auditorium and brought us all to tears by telling us about his autism and how he felt accepted at WLHS. He asked us to read the article on autism that he wrote for the Pilot (our school paper). The entire student body gave him a standing ovation after he ended his talk by saying, “If I can graduate, so can you.” These are powerful examples of the vision of WLHS that you’re supporting. Your gifts and prayers enable miracles like these to become reality! Thank you for all you do to make stories like these possible. In awe of the work of the Spirit,
Pastor Kenneth Fisher President of WLHS 2
WISCONSIN LUTHERAN HIGH SCHOOL || Summer 2017
In This Issue
Guided by Faith Farewell to Wisconsin Little Ten Driven by Excellence Fond Farewells Hall of Fame Inductees To God the Glory! Life Lessons from Civil Rights Tour Dinner Auction Success Grapevine/Reunions Perfect ACTs/In Loving Memory School News Boiler Campaign Update
Upcoming Events
Parent Info Meetings First Day of Class, Freshmen First Day of Class, All Students NHS Induction Grandparents Day Homecoming Game WLHS Open House
Page 3 Pages 4-5 Page 6 Page 7 Pages 8-9 Pages 10-11 Pages 12-13 Pages 14-15 Page 16 Page 17 Pages 18-19 Back cover
August 14 & August August September September September October
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View additional events and get more information at www.wlhs.org.
For Christ’s Love Compels Us . . . 2 Corinthians 5:14
Our Mission
Compelled by Christ’s love, guided by the Great Commission, and rooted in God’s Word . . . Wisconsin Lutheran High School prepares young adults for productive, Christ-centered lives in a diverse world.
Our Vision
Renowned for its distinctive Lutheran values, superior academics, and award-winning co-curricular activities . . . Wisconsin Lutheran High School will be the preferred choice for those seeking a comprehensive Christian high school experience in a caring, cross-cultural setting.
On the Cover: Members of the 2017 senior class on the Wisconsin Lutheran College campus
Guided by Faith
WLHS Grad Heads to Argentina and Peru Seth Weide (’15) had his plans set. He was going to attend the University of Wisconsin – Madison to pursue a degree in veterinarian medicine. At least that’s what he thought until February of his senior year. It was at that point when he began to consider the ministry. “There were a lot of teachers at WLHS who encouraged me. Plus, I had a great group of friends who were supportive,” says Weide. “Once I made the decision to focus on becoming a pastor, I never looked back. The thought of sharing Jesus’ love every day and leading others got me excited.” After two years at Martin Luther College (MLC), Weide is preparing for another change in plans. He’s taking a year off to study and volunteer in South America. While at WLHS, Weide took four years of Spanish and continued with the language at MLC. “From the beginning, I was impressed with Seth’s love of Spanish and his positive attitude toward a demanding curriculum,” says MLC Spanish professor Paul Bases. “His Spanish classes at Wisco fully prepared him and inspired him to use the language and take advantage of an opportunity that was put in front of him.” Through MLC’s study aboard program, Weide will spend June and part of July in Buenos Aires, Argentina, taking classes to hone his grammar skills and conversational Spanish. After that, he’ll move
to Callao, Peru, to teach English at B-Group Schools, a Lutheran Christian Academy for students age 6-16.
“I want to use Spanish in my preaching ministry so this is a great way to immerse myself in the language, experience another culture, explore another country and meet new people,” says Weide. Since he took several Advanced Placement (AP) classes at WLHS, Weide entered MLC with 16 college credits. Those credits, plus some schedule changes, will allow him to graduate on time—even though he’ll be off campus for an entire school year. “I wouldn’t have been able to spend time abroad if it wasn’t for the advanced classes I took during high school,” says Weide. “Really, Wisco was such a blessing for me. It shaped me into the person I am today.”
This year, 68 WLHS students are participating in 10 different Share the Mission trips in the United States and abroad to share God’s promise of salvation. The international destinations include Sonora and Mahahual, Mexico, Grenada and China. “Seth is a great kid who’ll be a fantastic pastor. He’s the type of person who naturally gets along with anyone. I’ll never forget the day he told me about his decision to become a pastor. He said, ‘I could make a lot of money as a vet but what good would that do me in heaven? I’m going to be a pastor instead and preach the Gospel.’” —Darrell Roecker, WLHS assistant principal
Farewell to Wisconsin Little Ten
Established in 1926, it’s the oldest athletic conference in the state but with the completion of the 2016-17 school year, the Little Ten is no more. Due to conference realignment in southeast Wisconsin, WLHS is now part of the Woodland conference, which includes nearby schools, such as New Berlin West, New Berlin Eisenhower, Pius XI, Greendale, Pewaukee and West Allis Central. “We had great success competing against outstanding schools in the Little Ten,” says WLHS
athletic director Jeff Sitz (’74). “During the four decades we were part of the conference, our boys and girls teams won a total of 164 championships. We will miss the competition, rivalries and friendships made over 40 years in the WLT.”
WLHS won a total of 164 WLT Championships
During Wisco’s time in the Little Ten, the boys track team won 38 WLT Championships and the girls track team won 39 WLT Championships including a total of five State Championship titles
Girls cross country won 13 Wisconsin Little Ten Championships and won State once 4
WISCONSIN LUTHERAN HIGH SCHOOL || Summer 2017
Boys cross country won 14 Wisconsin Little Ten Championships and won WIAA State three times
The football won 17 Little Ten Championships and in 2007 the team, coached by Kirk DeNoyer, included alumni Kevin Zeitler ('08), current guard for the NFL Cleveland Browns
Volleyball won nine WLT Championships. In 1996, the team was ranked #8 in the nation and recorded a perfect 14-0 season in the WLT.
With a history of 14 LIttle Ten Championships under their belt, the boys basketball team, coached by Ryan Walz, took home the State championship in 2014
The 2016 wrestling team won the team and individual titles for a total of four WLT Championships
PGA pro golfer Mark Wilson ('93) was a member of the 1990 WLT Champion golf team. Boys golf won a total of two WLT Championships.
Amanda Timm (’11) was a four-time Wisconsin Little Ten player of the year
Additional WLT Highlights Boys Soccer - 2 WLT Championships • Baseball - 4 WLT Championships • Girls Basketball - 7 WLT Championships • Girls Softball - 2 WLT Championships GUIDED BY FAITH. DRIVEN BY EXCELLENCE.
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Driven by Excellence
National Leadership Role for Jeff Sitz He’s been athletic director (AD) at WLHS since 1985 and during that time Jeff Sitz (’74) has gathered respect locally and nationally and amassed a plethora of awards.
Sitz
More importantly, he’s been able to raise the profile of Wisconsin Lutheran as an institution of excellence and Christian sportsmanship through his numerous board and leadership positions.
Sitz, who has a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s in physical education, has been honored numerous times, including: six District Athletic Director of the Year and two State AD of the Year awards from the Wisconsin Independent Schools Athletic Director Association (WISADA); a Man of the Year award from the Wisconsin Independent Schools Athletic Association (WISAA); a State Award of Merit from the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association (NIAAA); and two Track and Field Coach of the Year awards from the Wisconsin Track Coaches’ Association. He also served as the president of the Wisconsin Athletic Director’s Association in 2006. Through year-round dedication and a focus on excellence, he’s advanced WLHS’ athletics program to a highly regarded level. For 13 years, while serving as AD, he was also the co-ed varsity head track coach, winning four WISAA state titles during that time. He founded the WLHS Viking Volunteer Booster Club in 1986 and established the girls soccer program in 1998. In 2000, Sitz oversaw the development of WLHS’ new indoor facilities and outdoor stadium. “I really loved coaching and was sad to leave that role but my job is to coach the coaches and give
them the tools they need so they can run successful programs,” says Sitz. “My involvement at the local, state and national level identifies best practices we can implement and helps spread the word about WLHS.” Sitz will continue in his AD position at WLHS but on January 1, 2018, will add president of the NIAAA Board of Directors to his long list of credentials. “Jeff has strong leadership skills and will be an outstanding board president,” says Dr. Mike Blackburn, executive director of the NIAAA. “He leads with a servant’s heart, sets the example and does what is necessary to help make others successful in their role. He is a confident and steady voice for education-based sports programs in his state, our nation and the world.”
National studies have shown participation in high school athletics helps increase student GPAs and reduce absenteeism. In addition, student athletes learn the value of the 3 “P’s”—persistence, patience and practice—which are important life skills. The NIAAA has more than 10,000 members throughout the country and is focused on delivering professional and leadership development courses and programs to athletic administrators. Sitz has been a member of the NIAAA since 1986 and joined the board of directors in 2014. “The NIAAA has a rigorous interview and selection process so being named president means a lot to me,” says Sitz. “Since turnover in the athletic director position is high across the nation, the NIAAA focuses on providing as much education, support and information as possible to ADs and that’s something I’m truly passionate about.”
Mr. Sitz (pictured center), was track and field coach at Wisco in the ‘80s and ‘90s
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Fond Farewells
Several WLHS teachers and staff are retiring, leaving to take new positions or start new adventures. We thank each of them for their dedicated years of service. Marjorie Flanagan has
been a blessing to the Fine Arts Department for the past twenty years. She’s inspired thousands of high school and grade school students to learn about and make beautiful music. She led the Freshman Choir and Jubilation handbell choir, taught the Church Music course and created and implemented the Music Spectrum class. She was also an important ambassador to the WELS grade schools through the Wisconsin Lutheran Children’s Choir, Grade School Piano Festival and Junior Choir Festival.
Karen Kilchenmann has
made her mark on WLHS in many ways. Since joining the faculty in 1974, she’s taught all levels of Spanish and taken groups of students on academic trips to Latin America. In 2000, she established Share the Mission and since then more than 500 students have traveled throughout the United States and the world to share God’s message of love and forgiveness. A little known fact is that from 1975-84 Kilchenmann was the faculty advisor for the school’s very large ski club!
MiMi Festerling (‘67) has been
an integral part of WLHS since she joined the high school in 2005 as a guidance counselor. In addition to her work in the Guidance Department, over the years she’s taught Fashion Techniques, Meal Management and Algebra, which she dearly loves. She also started Agents of Change (AOC)—which is now the school’s largest organization with more than 100 members.
Roger Festerling joined the
science department in 1980 to teach Physics. Eventually, he came back to his first true love —Biology. While Roger is widely known for his work with Student Council and Veterans Day, he was also the advisor to the PA Crew (now called the Tech Team) and oversaw the greenhouse and outdoor classroom.
Staff Minister Randy Fink has taken a call to St. Paul’s in Muskego to serve as their church administrator. He came to WLHS in 2010 and his duties have included oversight and responsibility for finances, budget, accounting, human resources, campus and facilities and WLHS Foundation financials. Fink will miss leading chapels the most and encourages all students to consider serving the Lord in public ministry.
Rod Raasch (‘74) has served
at WLHS for the last ten years as security supervisor. He is leaving to enjoy retirement. Raasch has taken pride in keeping our school safe and secure for students, faculty and staff.
Micah Ricke (’06) has
overseen the high school’s student residential life program for the past three years. Ricke and his wife are moving to Kunming, China, where he plans to share God’s word and earn a master’s degree in education from Yunnan Normal University.
Mike Sebald (‘75) began his
teaching ministry at Wisco in 1983. Over the years, he taught Physical Science, Biology, Chemistry, AP Chemistry and was the Science Department Coordinator. Sebald also coached a variety of sports including girls basketball, track and freshman football. His favorite part of Wisco is, “Being able to teach in an area that I love and teaching the Word of God through science. Also, the great students that Wisco has makes this ministry more special.”
Ela Simon is moving to
California with her family. Her cheerful countenance and faithful service as attendance secretary will be greatly missed at WLHS, along with her ability to translate for our families and, of course, her fantastic arepas.
Hall of Fame Inductees Every three years, WLHS recognizes those who have used their God-given talents to pursue excellence in their life, career or service to the high school. On May 6, eight new members were inducted into the high school’s Hall of Fame.
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Athletics
1996-1997 Girls Volleyball Team
Greg Mahlberg (‘69) Greg Mahlberg was a two-sport athlete at WLHS but his passion was baseball. Mahlberg played at the University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee before beginning his professional career. As an undrafted free agent, he was signed by the Texas Rangers organization in 1973. Mahlberg was called up to the Major League in 1978 and played with the Rangers during the 1978 and 1979 seasons as a catcher. At the conclusion of his playing days, Mahlberg turned his love of the game to coaching and managing. He began his managing career in the Seattle Mariners farm system in 1983 and spent 15 years as a minor league pilot, also working for the Chicago Cubs, Milwaukee Brewers and Tampa Bay Devil Rays. Mahlberg was inducted into the Wisconsin Old Timers Hall of Fame in 2014. Karen (Kraklow) Sitz (‘76) Karen Sitz began her volleyball tenure at WLHS in 1981 as the freshman coach, a position she held for three years before spending 13 seasons as the varsity head coach. During her time leading the varsity team, she amassed a 300-112 record (.728). Her teams won four titles in the challenging Little Ten, the premier volleyball conference in Wisconsin at the time. She led the Vikings to 10 WISAA Regional titles and four appearances in State Championship matches, finishing as runner up in 1988 and 1994, and winning State Championships in both the 1995 and 1996 seasons and was named Coach of the Year in 1996 by both the Milwaukee Journal and the WVCA.
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WISCONSIN LUTHERAN HIGH SCHOOL || Summer 2017
The 1996-1997 volleyball team experienced unprecedented success in WLHS athletic history. They captured the conference title in the tough Wisconsin Little Ten with a perfect 14-0 record. They won the WISAA Regional title on their way to defending their 1995 WISAA State Championship crown, putting back-to-back state titles in the Viking’s trophy case. They were the #1 ranked team in Wisconsin, public or private, all season. They finished their season with a 44-2 record. The Vikings concluded their season undefeated in the state of Wisconsin and were ranked #8 in the United States in the USA Today high school poll.
Ministry Ned Goede Ned Goede served as principal of WLHS for 24 years during an unprecedented time of growth and change. Goede was called to serve WLHS as a counselor and teacher and a year later became principal. Among other duties, he was advisor to the National Honor Society and director of the award-winning A Capella Choir and Wisco Kids swing choir. As principal, Goede spearheaded the ministry focus of the schools’ emerging mission. As WLHS became involved in the School Choice Program, he helped develop the College Readiness Curriculum, expanding the reach of the school’s curriculum to support all educational levels. He also played a vital role in two capital campaigns, which added new math, science, fine and practical arts classrooms to the campus.
Terry Treuden (‘65) Terry Treuden began his ministry at WLHS in 1969 and during the next 30 years touched every corner of the music department. Primarily the high school band director, Treuden also served the elementary school band program, gave individual lessons and taught Music Theory and Church Music classes. He led the WLHS Marching Band (the highly successful summer competitive band), flute choir, clarinet choir, pep bands and jazz ensembles. He also was a driving force behind the development of the popular Prism Concerts at WLHS. In 1999, he became the Director of Instrumental Music at Wisconsin Lutheran College. Treuden received the Outstanding Bandmaster Award for the Wisconsin Chapter of Phi Beta Mu and was presented with the Edwin Franko Goldman Award from the American School Band Directors Association in 2006. Professor Treuden retired in 2017 from WLC after serving in the ministry for 48 years.
Alumni Leader Rudy Kalis (‘65) In the 1965 Compass, Rudy Kalis’ “likes” were listed as . . . cars, sports and people. This prophetic list would capture the essence of his awardwinning sports journalism career. After serving in the U.S. Air Force, Kalis graduated from the University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee with a degree in broadcasting and started at WFRV-TV in Green Bay. In 1974, he joined WSMV-TV in Nashville as a sports reporter and anchor. In Nashville, he won four local Emmys for outstanding Sportscast and Commentary, as well as the prestigious Silver Circle Award. He won a National Iris Award for outstanding documentary and was voted Outstanding TV Sportscaster in Nashville more than 25 times. He was also recognized by the Associated Press for Outstanding Sportscast in Tennessee 12 times. Kalis was inducted into the Nashville Metro Football Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 2011 and the Nashville Speedway Hall of Fame in 2013. In 2014, he moved across the desk, becoming a news anchor for WSMV-TV. Kalis shares his life of Christian values through his professional speaking and work with I am Second, a Christian ministry.
Stewardship Clarence (‘56) and Patricia Hartwig Clary and Pat, an honorary Viking, have been faithful LHS/ WLHS friends. Over the years, the Hartwigs have been most generous in using their time, talents and treasures to support the mission and vision of WLHS. Clary has served on the WLHS Board of Directors, as well as on special committees that focused on finances, capital campaigns and the expansion of facilities. Clary and Pat have made truly transformational gifts which have allowed WLHS to achieve initiatives which were outside of the standard budget. In addition, Clary and Pat are members of the Raabe Legacy Society by generously remembering WLHS in their estate plans. WLHS has truly been blessed by Clary and Pat’s life of faith.
Nancy (Schattschneider) Raabe (‘66) Ask Nancy Raabe what she does and she’ll probably answer something like, “Oh, just the behind-the-scenes stuff that no one else has time for.” She’s done this throughout her entire life as a mother, volunteer and staff member at multiple ministries. Prior to her arrival, St. Jacobi Lutheran Church had no administrative support for its pastors and financial officers. At Time of Grace Ministries, she was one of the three original staff members and she built the business operations from the ground up. Now at Wisconsin Lutheran High School, she has been the administrative assistant for various Directors of Mission Advancement and also provided assistance to many other positions on the Mission Advancement team. The Wisconsin Lutheran High School family considers itself blessed to have Raabe as one of its team members. She is a living example to everyone of “faithful Aaron holding up the prophet’s hands.”
GUIDED BY FAITH. DRIVEN BY EXCELLENCE.
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To God the Glory!
On May 28, 150 young men and women graduated from Wisconsin Lutheran High School.
Photos left to right: Principal Phil Leyrer with Valedictorian Jenna Frey Salutatorian Alexis Bertram Honor student Whitney Stahl-Hubbard
Academic Top 10 1. Jenna Frey, Zion Lutheran School, South Milwaukee 2. Alexis Bertram, St. Jacobi Lutheran School, Greenfield 3. Hannah Klemp, Mt. Calvary Lutheran School, Waukesha 4. Haolong (Max) Yang, Ci Zhong Academy, Cixi, China 5. Kellen Schneidewend, Pilgrim Lutheran School, Menomonee Falls 6. Alison Kuske, Mt. Calvary Lutheran School, Waukesha 7. BriAnna Emmrich, St. Jacobi Lutheran School, Greenfield 8. Maxwell Vasatko, Trinity Lutheran School, Waukesha 9. Weijiang (John) Lin, Qizheng Middle School, HangZou, China 10. Brianna Heikkinen, Good Shepherd’s Lutheran School, West Allis 10
WISCONSIN LUTHERAN HIGH SCHOOL || Summer 2017
Class Verse: Romans 8:38-39 “For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord” (NIV).
The Class of 2017
The 2017 class includes 41 members of the National Honor Society.
62 seniors made Honor Roll with a 3.4 GPA or higher.
10 students are attending Martin Lutheran College to pursue the teaching or preaching ministry.
12 students were accepted into the University of Wisconsin – Madison, while others are going out of state to: Kent State University; University of Washington – Seattle; Clark Atlanta University; University of California – Santa Barbara; School of Visual Arts (New York City); and Loyola University.
GUIDED BY FAITH. DRIVEN BY EXCELLENCE.
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Life Lessons from Civil Rights Tour
For the fourth year, 31 sophomores and juniors traced the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Logging more than 2,000 miles in six days, the group visited significant landmarks, including The King Center, Rosa Parks Library & Museum, National Civil Rights Museum, Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site and Edmund Pettus Bridge. The tour is intended to connect students to Civil Rights leaders who led positive change and to inspire them to become agents of change.
2017 Civil Rights Tour Student Reflections Throughout the trip, students keep a daily journal to document their observations, discoveries and feelings. Following are excerpts.
“MLK felt it. Rosa Parks felt it. Fear. Pressure. Uncertainty. They felt all of these things before and during the events that made them known. They had the option to back down but they didn’t. They couldn’t. They knew they had to push forward with integrity. They could have lied or Kiedrowski fought to make their work easier. But did they? No. They had honesty. They serve as examples of what one needs to feel when standing up for what you believe in. They inspire me to stay truthful and faithful. God says to love everyone, which is what I need to remember when I stand up for something,” Mikayla Kiedrowski (’18), St. Lucas Lutheran School, Bay View.
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WISCONSIN LUTHERAN HIGH SCHOOL || Summer 2017
Jones
“It inspires me to tell everyone of my history. It also makes me want to help America get rid of the racism that is prevalent today. My reaction is to make sure I keep my ancestor’s work alive and in action during my time at Wisco and in the future,” Sierra Jones (’18), St. John Lutheran School, Wauwatosa. “If we can all start to look at racial problems from both perspectives, it would solve so many issues,” Zach Bush, (’18), Good Shepherd’s Lutheran School, West Allis.
Bush
“I’ve wanted to go on the Civil Rights Tour ever since my older sister went on it and talked about all the great experiences she had. I saw that this trip could help me learn more about something I’m not too knowledgeable about. I also don’t have many conversations about Johnson race and I was excited that this tour would open up that door and provide a safe and free space to discuss the issue,” Anna Johnson (’19), St. John Lutheran School, Wauwatosa.
Sylvester
“I was surprised by the fact that many white people also participated in the civil rights movement. I was impressed with how strict and devoted the protesters were to hold to their non-violent principles. I try not to be violent but I do not think I could do what those people Nass did. Their actions were very commendable and I respect them highly,” Ethen Nass (’18), Grace Lutheran Church, Milwaukee.
“As I walked over the Edmund Pettus Bridge, it was eye opening and humbling for me, especially knowing that people lost their lives so I could have equality. America has made a lot of progress since the 1950s and 60s but still has a long way to go,” Jaiden Sylvester (’19), Garden Homes Lutheran School, Milwaukee.
“Because of this trip, my outlook on life and America today has been broadened. I feel more aware of what African Americans are going through today because of their history. I’ve made so many memories and new friendships. My biggest goal for when I get back Oertel to Wisco is to apply the things I’ve learned and not let all these new friendships die out. I believe stepping out of your comfort zone is key,” Mikayla Oertel, (’19), Trinity Lutheran School, Waukesha. “I would approach a problem differently now from being on this tour because it showed how, if you’re non-violent, you won’t look like the bad person. Non-violence is the answer for some things. I know a lot more now that every situation does not need a reaction. Some Taylor things we just can’t control but we can control how we approach others,” Taniya Taylor (’19), Darrell Lynn Hines Academy, Milwaukee.
The Edmund Pettus Bridge, a stop on WLHS’ Civil Rights Tour, was the site of the conflict called Bloody Sunday on March 7, 1965. Armed policemen attacked civil rights demonstrators attempting to march to Montgomery, the Alabama state capital.
Students at the grave site of Martin Luther King Jr.
Civil Rights Tour Alumni Reflections “The trip really was something that changed my life. I gained knowledge and perspective that I didn’t have before. I grew from the conversations we had each night and feel I now look past the color of skin and instead focus on the fact that God made us all,” Catherine Daly Daly (’16), University of Wisconsin – La Crosse, studying Professional and Organizational Communications. “For me, the trip was amazing. I learned so much about the civil rights movement and I really bonded with my classmates, some I didn’t even know before getting on the bus with them. A lot happened. There were emotional discussions and there were intense experiences Wright like the slave auction that we were part of that really showed how brutal things were,” Tepra Wright (’15), Northern Illinois University, studying Manufacturing Engineering Technology.
GUIDED BY FAITH. DRIVEN BY EXCELLENCE.
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Dinner Auction Success
On April 8, the annual WLHS Dinner Auction raised more than $350,000 to fund tuition assistance and support the ongoing work and ministry of the high school.
A generation of Festerlings. Roger and MiMi ('67) Festerling (pictured second and third from the left in back), retired teachers from Wisconsin Lutheran, with their children and spouses.
Auction hosts Scott and Christine Bauman
Thanks to the more than 300 guests and 80 volunteers who made the evening a success. And, special thanks to Scott and Christine Bauman who were this year’s Auction hosts and Kevin (‘08) and Sara (‘08) Zeitler who provided matching gifts during the event. 14
WISCONSIN LUTHERAN HIGH SCHOOL || Summer 2017
Wisco alumni at the auction included Jeremy Rynders ('97) (pictured right), with his wife Jodi (pictured left), and Erik Brenn ('97) with wife Michaela (pictured middle)
Student speaker, Sierra Jones ('18)
The Wisco Kids show choir added energy and rhythm to the evening
Attendees enjoyed the fun of online bidding during the silent auction
Alumni Jeff ('01) and Nissa ('01) Guenther
Students in Advanced Metals created a grill for the silent auction GUIDED BY FAITH. DRIVEN BY EXCELLENCE.
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Alumni Grapevine
Tim Martz (’85) has been promoted to colonel in the United States Air Force. Martz has more than 30 years of military service and is Vice Commander of Recruiting Service for the United States Air Force Reserve Command where he is responsible for recruiting the nation’s best to become reserve citizen airmen. He currently oversees more than 450 military and civilian personnel at 240 locations worldwide. Julie (Meincke) Bertram (’99) and her husband, Tim, were blessed with the birth of Jack Elliot on September 15, 2016. Jack joins his big sister Raegan who is 2 years old. Nicholas Cutting (’01) and his wife, Sabrine, were blessed with the birth of Canaan Salib on June 17, 2016.
Allison (Cutting) Busch (’03) and her husband, Brandon, were blessed with the birth of Emery Nicolette on November 3, 2016.
Reunions
Class of 1944 The class of ’44 is hosting its 73rd reunion on September 25, 2017, at Harwood Place in Wauwatosa. For more information, contact Aileen (Krueger) Mundstock at 414-571-0953. Class of 1945 The class of ’45 is hosting its 72nd reunion luncheon on June 17, 2017, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m., at Silver Spring Country Club, N56 W21318 Silver Spring Dr., Menomonee Falls. Contact Dick Maas at 262-255-1862 or richardmaas@ att.net for more information. Class of 1952 The class of ’52 is planning its 65th reunion this September. A date hasn’t been set but contact Hazel Ewert at 262-424-6731 if you’re interested in attending.
Daniel Rowe (’03) married Lorelei Carroll on February 29, 2016. Daniel is a financial specialist at UW Credit Union and Lorelei is a hospitality supervisor. The couple were blessed with the birth of Emerson Eric on December 23, 2016.
Class of 1954 The class of ’54 is hosting a reunion luncheon on June 15, 2017, 11:30 a.m. at North Hills Country Club, N73W13430 Appleton Ave., Menomonee Falls. Contact Roger Neumann at 262-334-3554 for more information.
Andrew (’08) and Amanda (Christenson) Backus (’09) were blessed with the birth of Lincoln on January 12, 2016. Andrew is a mechanical engineer and Amanda is a social worker.
Class of 1955 The class of ’55 is hosting its annual reunion luncheon on September 15, 2017, 11 a.m. at Alioto’s, 3041 N. Mayfair Rd., Milwaukee. Contact Evelyn (Zastrow) Pike at epike1@att.net or Laura (Utech) Statza at 262-797-9085.
Haley (Nitz) Arndt (’11) and her husband Christopher were blessed with the birth of Augustus Kenneth on April 17, 2017. Augustus was baptized on April 23 at Christ Lutheran Church in Milwaukee. Haley teaches at Christ-St. Peter Lutheran School and Christopher teaches at Siloah Lutheran School.
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Courtney Stack (‘16) (pictured middle) helped lead Morehead State cheerleaders U.S. National Team All-Girl squad to a World Championship at the International Cheer Union World Cheerleading Championship at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in Orlando, Fla. Over 100 countries were represented at the tournament.
Visit www.wlhs.org/alumni or call Erin Krug
WISCONSIN LUTHERAN HIGH SCHOOL at 414-453-4567 ext. 2012||toSummer share2017 your
Grapevine and In Loving Memory updates!
Class of 1967 The class of ’67 is hosting its 50th reunion on August 19, 2017, at WLHS in the Atrium. Contact Jim Guenther at 414-659-3648, jimguenther24@gmail.com or visit wisco1967.myevent.com for more information. Class of 1972 The class of ’72 is hosting its 45th reunion on August 5, 2017, at WLHS in the Atrium. Contact Ruth Breiling, ruthbreiling@gmail.com or 928-830-6008 for more information.
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Two Perfect ACT Scores
In Loving Memory
Class of 1939 Margaret (Neumann) Hamilton February 16, 2017 Class of 1944 Paul K. Jungkuntz April 15, 2017
Class of 1945 Nancy (Brugger) Fiuzat January 2, 2017 Class of 1949 Laverne Kaufmann December 5, 2016 This year, two WLHS juniors put themselves in an elite class of students. Elisha Doerr and Nathan Wranovsky both earned perfect ACT scores.
Class of 1950 Doris (Roewer) Palubecki December 3, 2016
Nationally, just one-tenth of one percent of students who take the ACT earn the top score. In 2016, only 2,235 of nearly 2.1 million students earned a 36.
Beverly (Bird) Juech December 13, 2016
Both Doerr and Wranovsky are taking several AP classes at WLHS, including Calculus AB, Calculus BC, US History, Psychology and English, and are active in numerous co-curriculars. Both young men are also planning to attend Martin Luther College (MLC) to become pastors.
Elisha Doerr
Class of 1951 Marlene Schumacher March 31, 2017 Class of 1953 David Jahnke March 18, 2016 Class of 1956 John Hertzverg December 23, 2016
Class of 1965 Paul Koepp December 5, 2016
John Laimon December 26, 2016 Class of 1969 Larry Urbanek January 24, 2017 David Kriehn February 13, 2017 Class 1970 Gary Volle June 17, 2016 Class of 1974 Nancy (Washow) Mennicke December 28, 2016
Class of 1978 Daniel Timmermann January 19, 2017 WLHS Student 1992-1995 Andrew Grundy January 23, 2017 Class of 2002 Christopher Korducki September 3, 2016
Doerr is co-captain of the WLHS Robotics team, which took second place in programming at the FIRST State Championship this season. He also sings in Inspiration (a vocal jazz group), is a member of Agents of Change and participates in the Video & Photo Club at WLHS. While Doerr plans to attend MLC, he is also applying to Yale, Harvard and MIT.
Nathan Wranovsky Wranovsky is a talented musician, vocalist and actor. He is Drum Major of the WLHS Marching Band, plays saxophone in the WLHS Band and Jazz Ensemble and sings in the A Capella Choir. He is president of the Drama Club and, in the fall, appeared as Matthew Cuthbert in the high school’s production of “Anne of Green Gables.” Wranovsky is also a member of Agents of Change.
“My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand.” John 10:27-28
GUIDED BY FAITH. DRIVEN BY EXCELLENCE.
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1-5. WLHS Spring Musical, Guys and Dolls 6. Prom Queen, Jalea Slocum 7. Prom King, Zachary Krohn 8. Wisco Kids perform a medley from Rent at the Prism concerts 9. WLHS’ newly purchased steal drums were a highlight at Prism 10. Through fundraisers, special events, and chapel offerings, students raised $26,704 for Our Hands for His Service to build an aquaponics agricultural system in Zambia, Africa for two communities. 11. Karon Brown displays her pottery at the Senior Art Show on May 17 12. Lindsay Dale presents her paintings at the Senior Art Show
Stay connected to WLHS! 18
WISCONSIN LUTHERAN HIGH SCHOOL || Summer 2017
Aleksandr Abel Jaylon Addison Yuting (Candy) Ai Nazelai (Nazil) Aierken Gabrielle Anthony Brianna Asik-Quezada Jonathon Bailey Alexis Bertram Nicole Blasezyk Zachary Bloomquist Nathan Boileau Katera Braddock Kyle Brandenburg Jala Brazil Karon Brown Tyrek Brown Brian Burke A’Miracle Burks Jerrica Byers Jessica Caira Mason Carlson Antonio Carman
Cedric Carr Tiernan Conklin Matthew Conte Brianna Cooper Michelle Cooper Harley Copeland Brian Corbins Jr. Margaret Crosby Carrington Cunningham Lindsey Dale Ayanna Daniels Scott Dobratz Marcellus Duckworth Rebekah Dummer Jacob Dziekan Kareem Edwards Jaden Ellis BriAnna Emmrich Tamia England Jacob Evans Kenton Fabian German Fitzgerald
Jenna Frey Damia Fulsom Christian Gallagher Christopher Garrett Jamie Genrich Kate-Lynn Giese Madelin Ginster Cooper Goede Brianna Greenfield Anna Grepo Hannah Haakenson Jaylon Hare Devon Harris Ira Harvey Brendan Hausch Brianna Heikkinen Nathan Helwer Mollie Henning Mitchel Hopp Shilue Huang Nathaniel Hurley Taylor Husband Ebenezer Ikhumhen Orenthia James Audrey Janik Charles Jefferson Adam Jensen Justin Johnson Deonte Jones Janiya Jones Aaron Jordan John Kiesow Anthony Kirchner Hannah Klemp Zachary Kopplin Chad Kriefall
The Class of 2017 Zachar Krohn Skylar Krutz Alison Kuske Taelor LaCoursier Alexandra Lambrecht Andrew Lemmenes Weijiang (John) Lin Kathryn Lindemann Alexandra Loper Samuel Luebbe Philip Maio Jaymin Martin Clara Martinez Elizabeth Mastopietro Zachary Matthew James Metz Joshua Miller Alisa Mitchell Lesli Mondragon Christopher Morgan Matthew Olson DaSean Palmer Ernesto Parra Rebecca Pelzek Joseph Perez Kirana Phansri Adam Plough Brianna Pollesch Brian Popoca Eddie Powe Emma Putze Michael Radue Brandon Raymond Simone-Hellene Reed Timmia Roberts Emily Schmidt
Joshua Schneider Kellen Schneidewend Tataynia Simmons Daniela Simon Jalea Slocum LiKayla Smith Marquis Smith Matthew Smith Mary Stahl-Hubbard Jonathan Stamm Gabrielle Steidl Joshua Steinberg Mackencia Steinberg Mackenson Steinberg Abigail Swezey Karnell Thompson Delilah Trempala Catherine Van Grinsven U’Nasia Vann Maxwell Vasatko Brandon Walk Wenhan (Phillip) Wang Tyler Wenslaff Ryan Wenzel Adam Westendorf Haley Wiese Jannie Wilson RuoYun (Kate) Xu Zhenyao (Vicky) Xue Haolong (Max) Yang Dong Hee (Brian) Yoo Jasmine Young Bowei (Aiden) Zhang FangChen (Andrew) Zhao Agapito Zuniga
WLHS is owned and operated by the following congregations joined together as the WLHS Conference Abiding Word Apostles of Christ Atonement Centennial Christ, Big Bend Christ, Milwaukee Christ, Pewaukee Christ the Lord Divine Peace Fairview Faith Garden Homes Gethsemane Good Shepherd’s
Grace, Milwaukee Grace, Waukesha Jordan Loving Shepherd Living Word Messiah Mt. Calvary Mt. Lebanon Nain Pilgrim Redemption Resurrection Risen Savior St. Andrew
St. Jacobi St. James St. John, Lannon St. John, Milwaukee St. John, Mukwonago St. John, Oak Creek St. John, Wauwatosa St. Lucas St. Marcus St. Mark St. Matthew St. Paul, Cudahy St. Paul, Franklin St. Paul, Muskego
St. Peter St. Philip Salem, Cramer Street Salem, 107th Street Siloah Star of Bethlehem Trinity Victory of the Lamb Woodlawn Zion, Hartland Zion, South Milwaukee
WLHS Contact © is the official alumni publication of the Wisconsin Lutheran High School Conference. President: Rev. Kenneth Fisher; Editor: Monica Baer-Carlson (‘87); Design/Layout: Carolyn Sachs; Contributing Writers: Rev. Kenneth Fisher, Monica Baer-Carlson (‘87); Photography: Attention Era Media, Ellen S. Cook Photography, Chuck Cairns, Tony Just Photography, Micah Ricke (‘06), Leanne Ross, Moments and Memories. Contact us with comments or questions at 414-453-4567, ext 2292, or via e-mail at carolyn.sachs@wlhs.org. Please notify Erin Krug (‘95) at 414-453-4567, ext 2012 or erin.krug@wlhs.org if you would like to be removed from our mailing list, change your contact information, or have contributions. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. TM used by permission of Zondervan.
GUIDED BY FAITH. DRIVEN BY EXCELLENCE.
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GUIDED BY FAITH. DRIVEN BY EXCELLENCE. 330 North Glenview Avenue Milwaukee WI 53213-3379
THANK YOU! BECAUSE OF YOU, $500,000 WAS RAISED TO REPLACE THE OLD BOILER SYSTEM. Your donations allowed us to install a new heating system that will be used once school resumes in the fall.