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Summer 2025 | Alumni & Friends Magazine
Welcome
Dr. Ken Fisher
A Message from Dr. Ken Fisher
President of the WLHS Conference
Alumni Relationships that Last Forever
The best in life often revolves around strong, meaningful relationships— whether that is in our family life, friendships, or faith community.
After all, we were not designed to go through life alone. And the same God, who gathers us into community, wants to use such relationships to bless us.
The one relationship that matters the most is with Jesus Christ, who said, “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full” (John 10:10). Life is “full” with Jesus— full of forgiveness in him, full of freedom to live for him, and full of life forever with him. Without faith in him, life can only be empty of what really matters most.
WLHS is a special community, which fosters deep and meaningful relationships that last well beyond one’s time in school. We want every alumnus to remain a lifelong disciple of Christ with the ultimate goal of a grand “all-school reunion” in heaven. That’s why we rejoice for the 17 students baptized this past year and another handful who were formally confirmed in the Lutheran Church. But a student’s time on campus is short in the big picture and a living faith needs constant nurture.
To carry out its Great Commission ministry, WLHS partners with over forty conference congregations locally and our world-wide church body to do what the high school can’t do alone—and can always do better.
During the past school year, we formed a special task to cast a more formal plan to connect the students and families of WLHS to lifelong engagement with Christ and local congregations. The group, working with our Campus Pastor, included area pastors, faculty, administration, and students. Together, they were charged with assessing what we are doing now; gathering more willing partners; and proposing new feasible initiatives, which both local congregations and the school could reasonably do. The Board formally approved the plans in May 2025.
Let’s pray that God blesses those plans with increased coordination and collaboration within our conference and Synod —all for the sake of greater student spiritual growth, more baptisms, more adult confirmations, and even more alumni setting their “minds on things above, not on earthly things” (Colossians 3:2). as they remain in a life-long relationship with Jesus and each other. As the task force’s
In This Issue
To God the Glory!
Page 3
Where Success Means More Pages 4-5
Gifts of the Great Commission Page 6-7
Two Seniors Selected for AIM Scholarships Page 8
Meet the Class of 2025
2025 Graduation Highlights
Auction 2025 Blessings
Pages 9-13
Pages 14-15
Page 16
The Immediate Impact of the WLHS Foundation Page 17
Alumni Updates Pages 18-19
Reunions
Page 20
Reunion Zero/In Loving Memory Page 21
2025 Spring Musical Page 22
2025 Prism Page 23
SFC Estate Coaching Back page
Upcoming Events
For up-to-date information, visit wlhs.org/calendar or download the Wisco app at the Apple App Store or Google Play.
2024-25 School Theme
Be Still & Know (Psalm 46:10)
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, diverse student body and award-winning co-curricular activities . . .
Wisconsin Lutheran High School is where every student finds success to the glory of God.
On the Cover:
Students from the graduating Class of 2025
Scriptural rationale noted, “All of these things are accomplished most easily when believers have a connection with a local congregation, brothers and sisters who will encourage each other, and a shepherd to guide and lead.”
In the name of our Savior,
Rev. Dr. Kenneth Fisher President of Wisconsin Lutheran High School
Two WLHS Students Ace ACT
This spring, Atticus Delwiche (’26) and Eloise Lambrecht (’26) each earned a 36 on the ACT, which is a perfect score. They join an elite group as the eighth and ninth WLHS students in the past eight years to achieve that mark.
Introduced in 1959, the American College Test, now known as the ACT, is taken by millions of high school juniors every year. The highest achievable ACT score is 36 and less than 1/10th of a percent of the annual ACT writers earn that score.
ACT Prep: When Delwiche took the PreACT test, it projected he might notch a perfect score, but it wasn’t something he expected.
Co-curriculars: Delwiche plays alto sax in a jazz ensemble and is on the varsity soccer team. “Mr. Petersen, our band director, is a good, kind, figure who cares a lot about us.”
Future Plans: He’s currently considering attending Wisconsin Lutheran College or the University of Wisconsin – Madison and is interested in secondary education.
WLHS Moments: So far, Delwiche’s favorite high school memories are playing in the annual Prism concert and two years ago when the boys’ varsity soccer team made it to the playoffs.
ACT Insight: While Lambrecht loves math, it wasn’t her highest scoring section—English was. However, she’s extremely proud of how she handled the math questions. “There were a lot of tricky ones that I was able to figure out.”
Co-curriculars: Lambrecht runs cross country and distance track. She’s also part of the art and drama clubs, Inklings, Math Track, National Honor Society, and WWW (Wisco Witnesses in the World).
Future Plans: Since she has a wide variety of interests that range from art to math to writing, Lambrecht hasn’t nailed down her college plans yet.
WLHS Thoughts: “I love all my teachers because they do such a great job of bringing their faith into the classroom. For me, AP classes are especially fun because I like a challenge.”
Atticus Delwiche (‘26)
Eloise Lambrecht (’26)
Where Success Means More
Boys Basketball Back-to-Back State Wins
The 2024-25 season for the WLHS Vikings was record breaking. The boys’ varsity team clinched the Division 1 WIAA state championship after taking the title last year as a Division 2 team. It’s a feat that’s never been done before in WIAA history. (WLHS was elevated from D2 to D1 by the Tournament Performance Factor.)
Under the leadership of Coach Ryan Walz (’92), the Vikings finished with an outstanding 28–2 record. Many eyes were on this year’s team after Kon Knueppel graduated from Wisco the year prior.
“The returning players believed in what they could do together and proved it throughout the season,” says Walz. “Their cohesive and unselfish play was seen night in and night out as they assisted on more than 70% of all field goals made, which is an absolutely ridiculous stat.”
Coach Ryan Walz (‘92) was named Boys Basketball Coach of the Year by the Wisconsin Basketball Coaches Association (WBCA) and has 300-plus career wins as head coach.
Senior Alex Greene (’25) who played guard/forward was a pivotal part of this year’s offense. Based on his leadership in the classroom, on the field, and in the community, this spring, he was recognized as a Pick ‘n Save Student-Athlete of the Week. Greene was on both state championship teams. He is attending Concordia-Mequon to play basketball and plans to study sports management.
Alex Greene (‘25) interview after the 2025 State Championship game
When Greene was interviewed by a television reporter after the championship game, he had this to say:
“It’s truly a blessing to be here. And I know that I want to thank my Lord and Savior for allowing me to be in this position. And I know at the end of the day win or lose I’m saved through Christ. So that allows me to come out here, play with a whole bunch of freedom, and have a whole bunch of fun.” — Alex Greene (‘25)
Where Success Means More
Thanks to the talents God bestowed on them, three female athletes secured significant college scholarships.
Annabelle Coudron (’25) Track and Field, Eastern Illinois University (EIU)
Coudron signed with EIU, an NCAA Division 1 school, and will be a member of their sprint team. At WLHS, she competed in the 100- and 200-meter dashes and ran the 4 x 100-meter relay. Coudron is a 12-time WIAA State qualifier, earned four state medals, and holds nine WLHS sprint records. At EIU, she plans to pursue a nursing major.
“Wisco is like a welcoming family. The teachers care about you, and you have friends who are by your side.”
Maddie Festerling (’25) Soccer, University of Illinois Springfield (UIS)
This spring, Festerling signed with UIS, an NCAA Division 2 school. At WLHS, Festerling played forward/striker, and was the team’s leading scorer with 95 goals in her Viking career. She was a team captain the past two years and also received WIAA All-Conference honors the past two years. At UIS, Festerling plans to major in criminal justice and psychology.
“At Wisco, you have the opportunity to try new things. I was an international student mentor, played the flute, and was the lead pan in the Viking Steel band, along with being on the soccer team and doing other academic and leadership activities. It was fun to be part of different groups. ”
Vitangcol is a left-handed pitcher who’s been a firstteam, all-state selection the past three years. Thanks to her pitching and hitting, she earned an athletic scholarship to the University of Wisconsin – Madison, an NCAA Division 1 school. During her four years at WLHS, she pitched 14 total no-hitters, nine of which went to seven innings, a state record. She had a 15-2 winning record with one save, all won by a score of seven or more. The team recorded a 21-1 season. At Madison, she plans to pursue a degree in early childhood education.
“There are so many great teachers at Wisco. I love math so one of my favorite classes was AP Calculus with Mr. Gottschalk.”
— Sydney Vitangcol (‘25)
Annabelle Coudron at her signing day
Maddie Festerling’s signing day
Sydney Vitangcol (‘25) Softball, University of Wisconsin — Madison
Sydney Vitangcol (pictured middle) at her signing day
Gifts of the Great Commission
This school year, 17 WLHS students received the lifegiving sacrament of baptism during chapel, in a private ceremony, or at a conference congregation.
Faith events like these reflect what it means to be a Great Commission school—sharing the good news of Jesus and witnessing lives transformed through faith.
“There are so many opportunities at Wisco to reach and teach young people. That’s why it’s vital for us to partner with our conference churches,” says Dr. Phil Huebner (‘99), campus pastor. “As we hone our strategies for connecting with students in every way, we then can seek to pass the ministry baton to our local congregations for them continue to nurture students and welcome them into membership through confirmation . The strategies can be simple, and the possibilities are endless, which means that these are exciting efforts to focus on.”
Dian Yanielys Duperoys (’25)
Grade School: Risen Savior Lutheran, Brown Deer
My Faith Story: “Growing up in Puerto Rico, I went to church with my grandparents and was involved with a congregation. In sixth grade, we moved to Milwaukee, so I had to teach myself English and, at the same time, keep up with my schoolwork.
I didn’t really go to church, but coming to Wisco changed that. I liked my freshman year religion class, Heritage of Faith, with Mr. Walz (‘96), and this year I had Pastor Berg for The Christian Worldview and Apologetics.”
College Plans: “I’m going to Wisconsin Lutheran College and plan to major in secondary education. I want to be a teacher and help people in their faith. I’m fluent in Spanish so I can do outreach to that community.”
“At Wisco, I was surrounded by so many people of faith, so I wanted to be baptized to keep growing. My next step is to become a church member.”
— Dian Yanielys Duperoys (‘25)
Dian Yanielys Duperoys (‘25) baptism day
Dian Yanielys Duperoys
Spring 2025 baptism day chapel service at Wisco
Gifts of the Great Commission
Chad Gatson (’26)
Grade School: Atonement Lutheran, Milwaukee
My Faith Story: “I wanted to get closer to God because I have challenges in my life, and needed his presence. It’s just my mom, sister, and me so, when my mom works, I take care of my sister. Plus, I have schoolwork and sports so that puts a lot of strain on me. I talked with my pastor at Atonement and last year I was baptized at Wisco. This year on Easter Sunday, I was confirmed at Atonement. I like being able to take communion. I share my feelings with God. Things have been getting better, and I believe it’s been God’s work.”
Thoughts on WLHS: “Wisco is a welcoming place with people who accept you for who you are and support you in everything you do.”
Cedric Bolden (’28)
Grade School: Pilgrim Lutheran, Menomonee Falls
Faith Story: “My older brother, Anthony, was baptized the year before and he encouraged me to do it. It’s a way to know that I am God’s own and I feel different since being baptized in December. My life has changed.”
Thoughts on WLHS: “This was my freshman year and Wisco is exciting and interesting with a lot of different opportunities. I was on the football team and ran hurdles in track.”
Chad Gatson
Cedric Bolden
Spring 2025 baptism day at Wisco
Chad Gatson’s (‘26) (pictured right) confirmation day on Easter Sunday 2025
Cedric Bolden (‘28) (pictured third from left) on the December 2024 baptism day at Wisco
Two Seniors Selected for AIM Scholarship
Out of hundreds of applicants, only 175 students were chosen and two were WLHS seniors.
All-In Milwaukee (AIM) is a college completion program that provides financial aid, advising, and program and career support to help students graduate, build meaningful careers, and transform the Milwaukee community. Many AIM scholars finish college debt free and secure a job within the city.
Giselle Garnica
Aicha Keita (’25)
Keita attended Mount Lebanon Lutheran in Milwaukee and this fall will head to the University of Wisconsin –Madison where she plans to major in biology.
“I was surprised when I got the scholarship,” says Keita. “I attended the AIM orientation and there’s a lot you have to do to keep it, so I’ll be working hard all four years at Madison.”
In addition to her major, she’ll be taking French classes since she was raised in a multilingual family. Keita’s parents are from Guinea so Fula and French were spoken in the household. While Keita is fluent in Fula, she’s not as strong in French—thus her desire to study that language.
At WLHS, Keita was an active and involved student. She was part of the A Cappella and Gospel choirs, National Honor Society, Step team, Wisco Kids, and WWW.
“For me, Wisco has been a place to explore and find new things that I love and care about,” says Keita. “My final Prism concert made me realize how many people I’m connected to and how much I’m going to miss them.”
Garnica attended St. John’s Lutheran in Milwaukee and this fall will head to Marquette University where she plans to major in biomedical sciences.
“I am excited for my college classes and hope to use my major to attend graduate school to pursue my interest in the medical field,” says Garnica. “I didn’t expect to get the scholarship but I’m so thankful I applied and was awarded one.”
At WLHS, Garnica was part of the hair and makeup crew for plays and musicals, the student yearbook, Hispanic Heritage Month, and volunteered to teach English to Spanish-speaking adults.
“Wisco helped me grow so much in my faith—through the friendships that I made and the constant reminder of God’s love. I am truly blessed to have come to Wisco because of the memories and support from my teachers.”
— Giselle Garnica (‘25)
Giselle Garnica (’25)
Aicha Keita
Class Hymn: He Will Hold Me Fast (CW 813)
Meet the Class of 2025
Kylah Alexander
Dakota Allen
Alana Avila
Lauren Baacke
Atticus Baade
Brody Ban
Clayshon Beamon
Natalia Berger
Sydney Biebert
Jonah Bik
Adalin Bogenschneider
Marquell Bovia
Maraihya Brown
Sydnie Bubnich
Tristan Buege
Micah Buschkopf
Tianhao (Terry) Cai
Malcolm Campbell
Julie Carter
Bella Casey
Camila Loza Camile
Alyssa Cole
Adam Comp
Morgan Conte
Annabelle Coudron
Madison Cowell
Annalise Crockwell
Nicholas Cross
Evan Delvaux
Ella Depies
Luke Dettmann
Thomas Doerr
Joseph Draganchuk
Sydney Drankiewicz
Brooklyn Dressler
Dian Duperoys Rodriguez
Class Colors: Cream and Dark Red
Class Flower: White rose
Owen Dusseau
Megan Dvorachek
Amos Ebeling
Lauder Eismann
Alex Enslen
Dylan Erwin
Xavior Evans
Blake Fendrick
Pablo Lopez Ferreira
Annabelle Festerling
Madelynn Festerling
Morgan Festerling
Azaria Fountain
Kenly Frey
Ricardo Garcia
Giselle Garnica
ReeBeyKa Gay
Megan Geibl
Nivonte Giles
Emerson Glodowski
Jenna Goelz
Alexander Greene
Ethan Groth
Addison Grulke
Alejandro Gutierrez
Mary Hahm
Joseph Hanson
John Harders
Calyse Hardnett
Isaiah Harris
Peri-monique Harris
Abigail Hartung
Isabelle Hatzung
Rayana Haynes
Zia Haywood
Erieanna Heath
Ethan Herrmann
Elina Hofer
Elza Hofer
Logan Hoffman
Mikiah Hopf
Jayven Horton
Wynn Hotchkiss
Moo Ba Blut Hser
Jiawei (Shirley) Huang
Noah Huebner
Madeleine Jaeger
Jonathan Javier
Marvell Jewell
Darrien Jimoh
Rafal John
Addison Johnson
Quincy Kehoe
Aicha Keita
Nicholas Kinnebrew
Joshua Klug
Luke Koeller
Amelia Koester
Cole Kreel
McKayla Kruichak
Nathan Kugler
Julianna Kulhanek
Evelyn Kwiatkowski
Jibril Lagundoye
Benjamin Lambrecht
Brielle Lampkin
Benjamin Langebartels
Hope Larabee
Laila Lawrence
Leah Lawrence
Thinh (Tim) Le
Joanne Lee
Biak Thawng Lian
Wanchun (Sarah) Lin
Elizabeth Lindner
Tyreese Lindsey
Éric López Vicente
Sarahi Lopez-Juarez
Cheyenne Duab Ci Lor
Amirah Manyfield
Jordy Manzano-Bolanos
Brandon Marshall
Jianna Matthews
Rachel Mattson
Caleb Matus
Jacob May
Emily McLaren
Alikhan Meirambek
Caleb Meitner
Isaiah Mellock
Katelyn Merrill
Bela Messling
Devan Meyer
Hyunjae Micheel
Vaughn Miller
Yanalise Molinari
Nathan Monaghan
Jalyf Montgomery
Kamerin Moore
Charity Nash
Collin Neumann
Kien Nguyen
Kaitlyn Oldenburg
Sarah Olson
Ryan Parker
Chitranuch (Jinny)
Pattanakul
Conner Poston
Malachi Powell-Guercy
Fred Ramsey
Asia Rave
Josiah Rice
Nariah Riddick
Javon Robinson
Lauren Roedel
Brady Rudoll
Kiefer Sachse
Alex Sada Galan
Shelby Sadler
Naomi Sanchez
Lucia Santana
Najarah Santiago
Jackson Schachtschneider
Corbin Schaffer
Henry Schapekahm
Ethan Scherzberg
Sofia Schroeder
Kiah Schuessler
Sylvia Scott
Caelum Seals
Braddock Sherwood
Cavanaugh Sipe
Aahvryonna Smith
Michael Smith
Donavin Sorattanasoun
Emmanuel Stark
Donovan Stephens
Reyonna Stephens
Bethany Stroh
Aida Sulejmanovic
Aidan Sullivan
Xianyi (Aaron) Sun
Cam’Ron Swan
Henry Szymanski
Bawi Tha Thang
Camden Theesfeld
Aniyah Thomas-Black
Ja’Liyah Thompson
Kelsey Thrower
Alexandria Tipton
John Torres-Stewart
Brooklynn Tranberg
Lilyana Tremaine
Emilia Trettin
Emma Trotter
Sydney Vitangcol
Jeremy Wallace
Weathers
Makayla Wendl
Jenesis Wesley
Braxten Wetzel
Armani White
Lauren Wigley
Shacarah
2025 WLHS Graduation Highlights
202 young men and women graduated from Wisconsin Lutheran High School on May 24.
The Class of 2025
Academic Top 10
1. Amos Ebling
Wisconsin Lutheran College
2. Sarah Lin
University of Wisconsin—Madison
3. Makayla Wendl Rose State
4. Elza Hofer University of Iowa
5. Alex Enslen
Martin Luther College
6. Kaitlyn Oldenburg University of Wisconsin—Milwaukee
7. Lauren Roedel
Indiana University
8. Tommy Doerr
Martin Luther College
9. Luke Koeller
University of Wisconsin—Madison
10. Syndey Vitangcol University of Wisconsin—Madison
Valedictorian Amos Ebling
Salutatorian Sarah Lin
2025 WLHS Graduation Highlights
2025 Auction Blessings
Thanks to the generosity of sponsors, donors, and attendees, the 29 th annual WLHS Dinner Auction raised $750,000 to support Wisco students.
The evening was hosted by brothers Brian and Randy Frey. They and their brother Hardy did not attend WLHS, but their sister, Linda (Frey) Joerrs (‘77), did. Since money was tight in the Frey family, Linda got a job to pay her own tuition while the brothers went to a public high school. Decades later when they were parents, Linda, Brian, Hardy, and Randy sent all of their children to Wisco.
In addition to hearing the Frey family story and their commitment to WLHS, the evening included musical entertainment. Viking Steel performed during the silent auction, and Jenesis Wesley (‘25) and Micah Buschkopf (‘25) delighted guests with a live performance during dinner. Later on, Abby Holsinger (‘26), Anthony Brown (‘26), and Tommy Doerr (‘25) shared what a difference Wisco has made in their lives.
Lots of Spirit-driven faith was on display during the evening, and from its fruit many students will be supported in their Christ-centered education at WLHS.
The Frey brothers were given honorary WLHS lettermen jackets
Jenesis Wesley (‘25) and Micah Buschkopf (‘25) performed live for auction guests
WLHS Foundation
The Immediate Impact of the WLHS Foundation
When Grace Hartung (’27) graduated from Star of Bethlehem Lutheran in New Berlin, she knew she was headed to Wisco for high school. Her older sister, Abigail, was a junior at WLHS and the family’s plan was for Grace to follow in her footsteps.
With two children at WLHS, the Hartungs applied for scholarships and tuition assistance.
Thankfully, Abigail received scholarships totaling $4,500 and Grace was awarded the WLHS Foundation Board scholarship of $4,000. Both girls received tuition assistance in addition to the scholarships, making a Christian education at Wisco a reality for the Hartung family.
The WLHS Foundation was established as a way for supporters to invest in the ministry by providing gifts to ensure its long-term viability, as well as tuition assistance for students and funding for unexpected opportunities.
This school year, the Foundation contributed nearly $700,000 to WLHS for tuition assistance and, over the years, the WLHS Foundation has supported various special projects, like the updated and improved outdoor athletic facility.
In addition to the generous annual tuition assistance donation, in 2017, the Foundation and its board members established an endowed scholarship. Each year, the Foundation awards one student with a sizable amount of tuition assistance. Hartung was the 2024-25 recipient.
Anyone can establish an endowed scholarship through a gift of $50,000, which ensures a $2,000 annual award. The full endowment amount does not need to be given all at once and can be grown through annual contributions. Many donors choose to give an annual cash gift to be immediately awarded while they grow their endowment to automatic distribution.
“It is a privilege and joy to encourage WLHS supporters to consider creating an endowed scholarship since a single award can really make a significant difference for a student and their family,” says Ryan Oertel (‘93), executive director of Mission Advancement and the WLHS Foundation. “It’s also been incredible to watch the different, creative ways God has allowed supporters to reach the endowment amount. For example, we’ve had multiple generations of a family partner together or even friends who’ve pooled their resources to establish a scholarship.”
For Hartung and her family, attending WLHS has meant a lot.
“I’m getting a good education, am surrounded by Christians, and get to go to chapel every day and that’s helping me grow in my faith.”
— Grace Hartung (‘27)
If you or a family member would like to discuss creating an endowed scholarship, please contact Ryan Oertel at 414-453-4567 ext. 2025 or ryan.oertel@wlhs.org.
Grace Hartung (‘27)
Alumni Updates
Robert C. (‘73) and Janet (Proeber) Pruess (‘73) were married on August 10, 2024. The couple has exciting travels ahead, to the Dakotas and Montana and a belated firstanniversary celebration at Niagara Falls. Bob will be celebrating upcoming retirement on December 31, 2025, after 50 years as a power plant mechanic at WE Energies.
Samantha (Keihl) (‘07) and Dan Johnson (‘02) welcomed their daughter, Mackenzie Marie, on April 25. Samantha serves as the director of the Invasive Cardiovascular Technology program at MATC, and Dan works as a Lead Routing Analyst at US Foods.
Thomas (‘03) and Amanda (Krause) Meitner (‘05) joyfully welcomed a daughter, Julia Mara Christine, on April 15. Julia’s middle names honor two beloved WLHS alumni classmates— Elizabeth Johnson (‘04), who passed away in 2020 after a courageous battle with cancer, and Christopher Jagodzinski (‘03), who died from a stroke shortly after graduation. Julia’s name is a tribute to the joy, hope, and love their friends brought into the world.
Steven Stujenski (‘07) and his wife, Victoria, welcomed son, Oliver James, on January 4, making them a family of four with big sister Arabella. Steve currently serves as the executive chef at North Hills Country Club.
Jeremy Treuden (‘07) and his wife, Megume, welcomed their third child, Zeke, on March 10. Zeke joins proud older brother, Kazu (7) and sister, Ruah (5). Jeremy leads a team of graphic designers at Mueller Communications in Milwaukee, and Megume runs her own photography business, Gardentide Photography.
Kevin Zeitler (‘08) recently signed a one-year deal with the NFL Tennessee Titans. As a Pro Bowl guard, Kevin has played 13 seasons in the NFL with teams including the Bengals, Browns, Giants, Ravens, and most recently, the Lions.
Kevin and his wife, Sara (Braun) Zeitler (‘08), continue to inspire the Wisco community through their dedication, perseverance, and faith— on and off the field.
Hannah (Mattek) Roekle (‘09) and her husband, Dave, welcomed their fourth child, Brooks, on May 8. The family lives in Oceanside, Calif., where Hannah stays home with Brooks and his proud older siblings Graham (7), Ellis (5), and Holden (3).
Jordyn Noennig (‘12) was highlighted in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, where she serves as the nightlife and brewery reporter. Drawing from her years in the service industry, she covers Milwaukee’s bar scene and trends with insider insight. A fourth-generation WLHS alum and thirdgeneration UW-Milwaukee grad, Jordyn brings her deep Milwaukee roots and journalistic passion to life in every story.
Alumni Updates
Eric (‘13) and Hannah (Midthun) Uher (‘13) welcomed their first child, Jonah James “JJ,” on May 2. The couple both serve at Hope Christian Academy, Eric as vice principal and Hannah as school counselor, in Westland, Mich.
Mandy (Schneider) (‘16) and Sam Hanson (‘15) welcomed a daughter, Eviana Brooke, on April 29. Mandy serves as the graphic designer and digital media specialist in the WLHS Mission Advancement office.
Ami Leigh (Christnacht) Schmidt (‘16) and her husband, Kameron, welcomed twin girls, Isabelle and Octavia, on April 9.
Ami Leigh is a pharmacist at Froedtert Hospital, and Kameron runs a residential painting business.
Chris Garrett (‘17), former WLHS football standout returned to campus for the unveiling of his autographed, game-worn Concordia University — St. Paul jersey now on display at his alma mater. After college, Garrett was drafted by the NFL Los Angeles Rams and won a Super Bowl with them. Chris played for the Minnesota Vikings, tried out with the Arizona Cardinals, and most recently suited up for the UFL St. Louis Battlehawks. He’s now preparing for the next chapter of his career in Canada.
Zachary Klement (‘20) graduated from Martin Luther College in May 2025. Zachary was assigned as staff minister to St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Muskego.
Samantha Grass (‘21) graduated from Martin Luther College in May 2025. Samantha was assigned to Risen Savior Lutheran School’s East Campus in Milwaukee to teach grade 6.
Lydia Hahm (‘21) graduated from Martin Luther College in May 2025. Lydia was assigned to Kingdom Prep Lutheran High School in Wauwatosa to teach science.
Nathan Miller (‘21) graduated from Martin Luther College in May 2025. Nathan was assigned to Lakeside Lutheran High School in Lake Mills to teach social studies, English, and to coach.
Jessica Techlin (‘21) graduated from Martin Luther College in May 2025. Jessica was assigned to Garden Homes Lutheran School in Milwaukee to teach grade 3.
Kon II Knueppel (‘24) has officially declared for the 2025 NBA Draft after an impressive freshman season at Duke. He earned ACC All-Freshman, All-ACC Second Team honors, and was named ACC Tournament MVP after leading Duke to a title and a Final Four appearance. A proud Milwaukee native and former Wisconsin Player of the Year, Kon continues a family legacy of basketball excellence.
Reunions
Upcoming LHS & WLHS Reunions
n Class of 1955 – The Class of 1955 is celebrating their 70-year reunion on Friday, September 19, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at Alioto’s Restaurant.
n Class of 1980 – The Class of 1980 is holding their 45-year reunion on Saturday, October 11, 2025 at DJ’s Goalpost Sports Bar & Grill in Menomonee Falls, Wis. Tours at WLHS are available prior to the reunion.
n Class of 1985 – The Class of 1975 is celebrating their 40-year reunion on September 13, 2025, from 5:0010:00 p.m. at Reunion Restaurant, West Allis, Wis.
n Class of 1990 – Plans are in the works for your 35-year reunion! More details to follow.
n Class of 2000 – Plans are in the works for your 25-year reunion. Stay tuned for more information!
n Class of 2005 – The Class of 2005 is celebrating their 20-year reunion on September 20, 2025 starting at 7:00 p.m. at Ope! Brewing Co., West Allis, Wis.
25-Year 1999 & 2000 State Championship Softball Team Reunion
Members of the 1999 and 2000 WLHS Softball State Championship Teams reunited to celebrate the 25-year anniversary of their historic wins! Coach Mortl and Coach O’Brien joined the celebration, which included a tailgate and on-field recognition during the game against Pius XI Catholic High School. Some teammates even traveled from as far as Texas to be there!
25-Year 2000 State Championship Baseball Team Reunion
It was a special night on the diamond as WLHS hosted a double celebration during the varsity baseball game against Arrowhead High School on May 23. Members of the 2000 State Championship Baseball Team reunited to celebrate their 25-year anniversary alongside Coach Gosch and Coach Bilitz. The team enjoyed a tailgate gathering and was recognized on the field for their historic win.
In Loving Memory Reunion Zero
A Senior Send-Off to Remember!
The last day of school before exams, Reunion Zero brought together the graduating senior class for a special lunchtime celebration. This year’s event featured a pizza lunch, a senior gift, fun giveaways, a lively photo booth, and meaningful moments with both classmates and WLHS alumni and staff. We wish the graduating Class of 2025, God’s richest blessings on their future endeavors!
Want to be part of this memorable tradition? Sponsor next year’s Reunion Zero and help send off our seniors in style! Contact Sarah Proeber (‘07) at sarah. proeber@wlhs.org for more details.
Class of 1945
Elaine (Lang) Hall
January 30, 2025
Class of 1947
Beverly (Ziemer) Braskett
April 25, 2025
Class of 1953
Rodney Nelson February 9, 2025
George Kurth
March 20, 2025
Class of 1954
Lorraine (Schultz) Rothe
March 13, 2025
Class of 1955
Laureen (Weber) Niedfeldt
May 30, 2025
Class of 1957
Nancy (Everts) Harlass February 25, 2025
Class of 1959
John Schroeder
April 5, 2025
Thomas Petersen
May 10, 2025
Shirley (Gruel) Buss
May 15, 2025
Class of 1960
Gary Reinke
February 18, 2025
Marilyn (Salinger) Langenegger
March 25, 2025
Carol (Severson) Bohlmann
May 10, 2025
Class of 1963
Bernhard Mussfeldt
January 22, 2025
Irene (Kuklinski) Gordon February 9, 2025
Sharon (Leitgeb) Valerio
April 21, 2025
Martin Naumann
May 1, 2025
Class of 1965
Russell Dzwinel
February 28, 2025
Richard Arndt Sr.
April 28, 2025
Class of 1967
Jean (Roddy) Reesman
April 28, 2025
Class of 1970
Rev Mark Johnston
April 25, 2025
Class of 1971
Gregory Patterson
April 7, 2025
Class of 1974
Thomas Kuenn
March 22, 2025
Class of 1976
John Wiechmann
March 6, 2025
Class of 1979
Norman Shelvik
March 3, 2025
Class of 1992
Brian Wotruba
April 14, 2025
WLHS Remembers
Teacher (1961-1999)
Gerald Bergemann
March 28, 2025
Gerald “Jerry” Bergemann taught World History (also became the department chair), geography, and phy ed while serving as an assistant football coach. He also served as a teacher for Milwaukee Lutheran Teachers College.
WLHS Secretary Kaye Eckert
April 2, 2025
2025 WLHS Spring Musical
The 2025 WLHS spring musical production was Singin’ in the Rain. With a performance for grade schools and one weekend only of public shows, the production welcomed nearly 3,000 guests. More than 100 talented students brought this golden era of Hollywood classic films musical to life, showcasing their dedication both on and off the stage. A heartfelt thank you to the incredible cast, crew, and staff who made this production an unforgettable success!
The choirs and bands of Wisco delighted sold out crowds at the 2025 Prism concerts from pop music, to pop culture, and showtune hits. Among them were steelpan performances, several vocal solos and duets, concert and jazz bands, and a mass choir and instrumental piece by composer Cody Fry. Our thanks to the countless volunteer hours by parents, students, and staff that make these concerts so successful.
WLHS is owned and operated by the following congregations joined together as the WLHS Conference
Abiding Word Atonement Centennial Christ, Big Bend Christ, Pewaukee Christ Alone Christ the Lord Fairview Faith Garden Homes Grace, Milwaukee Grace, Waukesha Loving Shepherd Living Hope Living Word Messiah Mt. Calvary Mt. Lebanon Nain Pilgrim Redemption Resurrection
Risen Savior St. Jacobi
St. James
St. John’s on the Hillside
St. John’s, Howell Ave
St. John, 27th Street
St. John, Lannon
St. John, Milwaukee
St. John, Mukwonago
St. John, Wauwatosa
St. Lucas
St. Marcus
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 Zion, Hartland Zion, South Milwaukee
WLHS Contact © is the official alumni publication of the Wisconsin Lutheran High School Conference. President: Dr. Kenneth Fisher; Editor: Monica Baer (‘87); Design/Layout: Carolyn Barsch; Contributing Writers: Dr. Kenneth Fisher, Monica Baer (‘87); Photography: Tony Just Photography, Kelsey Heffter Photography, IN-FOCUS Photography. Contact us with comments or questions at 414-453-4567, ext 2292, or via e-mail at carolyn.barsch@wlhs.org. Please notify Megan Kruschel at 414-453-4567, ext 2012 or megan.kruschel@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.
Plan with Purpose—at No Cost to You
“When we found out we were having a baby, setting up a will became even more important. The opportunity to work with SFC Estate Coaching through Wisco came at the perfect time.”
—Hannah (Midthun) Uher (‘13)
Hannah (‘13) and Eric Uher (‘13) signed up online with a trusted SFC estate coach. Through this partnership, the WLHS Foundation offers free, confidential guidance to help you create a personalized plan for your family and your future— no strings attached.
Learn more or schedule your free session at wlhs.org/foundation or through the QR code above