WLHS Contact Spring 2021 | Alumni & Friends Magazine
Where Success Means More
Welcome
A Message from Dr. Ken Fisher President of the WLHS Conference Now is the Time to Start Planning for a Different Future There are many lessons that I’ve learned in the pandemic. One is that a pandemic is no time to do long-range strategic planning. That’s why we delayed plans for conducting a thorough strategic planning process during the current school year. The delay was a blessing! After this year of offering a hybrid (four days Dr. Ken Fisher in person and one day virtual) and fully virtual option to our students, school will be different. There are new assumptions from families and different expectations. We’ve begun to explore how Covid-19’s impact will change education in the future. We intend to develop a completely new long-range strategic plan over the course of the next school year in a similar process that we followed in my first year as president. With the help of an outside consultant, we’ve already begun pre-planning and Mr. Todd Witte has graciously accepted the role as chair of the task force that will lead the efforts. Our last major strategic plan embraced our unchanging mission of “making disciples” with a Great Commission focus by increasing enrollment while enhancing academic excellence, inspiring servant leadership, and investing in our facilities. Together we dreamed about an expanded international student program which “seizes the opportunity for gospel outreach” and “acquiring property for residential housing options.” By God’s grace, those major initiatives came to fruition! How can Wisconsin Lutheran High School serve the Savior and the needs of his people in the next 5-10 years? Won’t it be exciting to wrestle and dream about that over the next year? I am inviting your participation in the process. We will be engaging alumni, pastors, parents, students, faculty, staff, and the board as we have honest conversations about the challenges, analyze the possibilities, and gain consensus around the strategic priorities and future plans to advance Christ’s kingdom. Will you join in this journey? I look forward to your involvement and invite your prayers on this important process. In Christ’s Service with you,
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Rev. Dr. Kenneth Fisher President of WLHS
In This Issue
To God the Glory! Page 3 Where Success Means More Pages 4-5 Ongoing Support from the WLHS Conference Page 6 WLHS 2021 Dinner Auction Page 7 Veterans Honor Roll Pages 8 WLHS Alum Leads U.S. Air Force Bands Pages 9 Alumni Updates & Reunions Pages 10-12 WLHS Foundation/In Loving Memory Page13 WLHS News Page 14 2021 Winter Festival Page 15 WLHS 2021 Dinner Auction Back Page
Upcoming Events For up-to-date information about events during the winter, visit wlhs.org/calendar.
2020-21 School Theme “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” (Philippians 4:4)
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: 2021 Winter Festival Court
Where Success Means More
WLHS Grads Answer the Call to Teach and Preach Ethan Boese (‘11)
Sam Jeske (‘08)
Zion Lutheran Church, Sanborn, MN
Our Shepherd Lutheran Church, Crown Point, IN
Pastor
“Everyone in the religion department at Wisco influenced me in one way or another. I enjoyed talking with my religion Pastor Boese teachers because we’d have really deep discussions about the Bible. They’d also share their real-life experiences with me which was helpful. The other thing about going to Wisco is getting to know people who might do things differently and have different perspectives than you. Understanding that has been invaluable to me in my ministry.”
Jazzmin (Sanchez) Kasper (’14) Preschool Teacher
Key to Life Christian Childcare, Weston, WI “We had a Big Buddy program when I was in sixth grade so I spent time in the kindergarten classroom and saw how the teacher helped so many little children. I knew right then I wanted to become a teacher. During high school, my Wisco teachers encouraged me to take classes that would help me at Martin Luther College (MLC). I was also really involved in music and knew I wanted to pursue that as a teacher. When I student-taught at Luther High School in Onalaska, I was an advisor for Choral Fest and my experience attending Choral Fest as a Wisco student was a big help. One of the things about Wisco is that it felt small to me because the teachers went out of their way to make sure students were doing well spiritually, mentally, and academically.”
Jazzmin (‘14) met her husband, Joseph Kasper, at MLC. The couple was married July 11, 2020, and Joseph is currently in his vicar year at St. Peter Lutheran Church in Schofield, WI.
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WISCONSIN LUTHERAN HIGH SCHOOL || Spring 2021
Pastor
“I took an indirect path to becoming a pastor. I didn’t go to college right away and, honestly, was questioning my Pastor Jeske faith and relationship with God. I decided the best way to explore my questions was to attend MLC. I went in with deep skepticism but by sophomore year I reached a point of spiritual maturity and knew I wanted to be a pastor.” “At Wisco, I had a lot of wonderful mentors who encouraged me and a number of teachers suggested I become a pastor. At that time, I wasn’t open to the idea but I now know there was something they saw in me that I didn’t see in myself. My favorite part of being a pastor is delivering Jesus.”
So many people are aimlessly searching for hope, peace, meaning, and value in their lives. By sharing Jesus’ love, I’m able to give them answers to life’s most pressing questions.” — Pastor Sam Jeske (‘08)
Where Success Means More
It was almost like a flip of the switch when I realized I could have an impact on young lives by being a teacher. I knew that’s the person I wanted to be.” — Miss Ari Sanchez (‘16) Ari Sanchez (’16) 7th Grade Teacher
Christ-St. Peter Lutheran School, Milwaukee
Miss Sanchez
“I didn’t really know what I wanted to do but one day in Christian Life Planning we did an attribute exercise. After class, Mr. Bowe took me aside and asked if I ever thought about teaching.
“The teachers at Wisco inspired me because they put their faith into action every day. I saw how they interacted with students and how much they genuinely cared about us. That’s something I always carry with me.”
Eric (’13) and Hannah (Midthun) Uher (‘13) were high school sweethearts who both attended MLC, got married in 2017, and are now serving in the ministry as teachers.
Eric Uher (’13)
6th Grade Teacher
Peace Lutheran School, Sun Prairie, WI “My senior year at Wisco I was student body president and had a lot responsibility. That experience made me realize I could take a leadership position and it was something I enjoyed. At Peace, I absolutely love teaching my 6th graders. I’m blessed to be with my kids every day as they go through so many mental, physical, and emotional changes. This year, I have two students who are new to the school and new to faith. I’m the first person who’s shared with them that Jesus is their Savior. It’s been awesome for me to be the tool that God is using to bring them to faith. It’s the most rewarding job on earth.”
Hannah (Midthun) Uher (’13) Science Teacher
Lakeside Lutheran High School, Lake Mills, WI “I hadn’t thought about being a teacher but junior year I went on a trip to MLC. Everyone was so friendly and welcoming. Senior year my parents and I visited MLC and the excitement really started to build. The teachers I had at Wisco were role models for the type of teacher I am today. They respected us as students and were always pushing us to be our best. That’s what I do now with my students.”
Ari Sanchez (‘16) was installed at Christ-St. Peter Lutheran School WHERE SUCCESS MEANS MORE
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Ongoing Support from the WLHS Conference
Thank you to the congregation members, pastors, teachers, and lay leaders for your ongoing support of our mission of preparing young adults for productive, Christ-centered lives in a diverse world.
Pastor Richard Krause (’74)
Pastor Tim Spaude
“My family has a long relationship with Wisco, starting with my dad who was principal for 30-plus years. I graduated from Wisco, my sister recently retired from teaching at Wisco, and my four children all went to Wisco. From a parent perspective, I was pleased my children could go to the same high school that I attended and receive a Christian-based education. They all flourished academically and they still have their friends from high school. From a synod perspective, there are many pastors and teachers who’ve been serving for decades who are products of Wisco. It’s truly a blessing to the WELS ministry.”
“I’ve been involved with WLHS for more than 20 years and everyone I’ve personally worked with or known is committed to the word of God. The faculty, staff, and administration are focused on the mission of connecting kids to Jesus and helping them learn how to serve him for the rest of their lives.”
Christ Lutheran Church, Pewaukee
St. Jacobi Lutheran Church, Greenfield
“I call it the Cadillac of Lutheran high schools because there’s such a wide array of resources and career path options that kids can pursue. It’s really astounding.”
Pastor Peter Panitzke
St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Muskego “I celebrate the fact we have Christian education all the way from infancy to high school to college. I think of WLHS as an extension of our church and a valuable partner. Teen ministry in a Christian congregation can be really hard, so I know how valuable it is for Wisco to give our kids a chance to go on mission trips and get involved in service activities where they can live their faith and witness to others. There are a lot things Wisco does that would be hard for a congregation to do on its own.” “I’m a futurist and I appreciate the forward-thinking approach that the WLHS administration has. There aren’t too many multicultural schools like Wisco that are working to bring the urban and suburban congregations and schools together.”
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WISCONSIN LUTHERAN HIGH SCHOOL || Spring 2021
WLHS Conference Facts & Figures
4 52 congregations 4 29 WELS grade schools are served
by WLHS as members of the conference
4 651 WELS grade school graduates attend WLHS, which represents nearly 80% of the WLHS student body 4 $1 million yearly in combined congregational support
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3 exemplary accreditations
from: Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod School Accreditation; Wisconsin Religious and Independent Schools Association; and National Council for Private School Accreditation
WLHS 2021 Dinner Auction
Lifelong Wisco Friends to Co-host April Event
2 5 th An nu al D i n n er Auc tion
“Wisco gave so much to me and I’m now in a position to give of my resources. I feel it’s my time to step up. I want to do big stuff now. If not now, then when?,” Ryan Festerling (’93), president of the WLHS Board of Directors and president and COO of QPS Employment Group
Saturday, April 17 Visit wlhs.org/events for more information! Pro golfer Mark Wilson (’93) and corporate president Ryan Festerling (’93) met long before they ever had titles before their names. The pair went to first grade at St. John’s Lutheran in Lannon and then became good friends during their four years at Wisco. Despite going to different colleges, pursuing different careers, and living in different states, the two have remained close. “It’s really a testament to Wisco and what a shared faith means throughout your life,” says Festerling. “Wisco creates this deep connection and a common bond. My best, closest friends are all from high school.”
Mark Wilson (’93) was inducted into the WLHS Hall of Fame in 2008. During his time at Wisco, he was a two-time individual state golf champion and helped the high school win its only State Golf Championship. In 1996, while at the University of North Carolina, he received the Ben Hogan Award as the top NCAA student golfer. Wilson joined the PGA TOUR in 2003 and won his first PGA TOUR event, the 2007 Honda Classic, in an exciting four-man playoff.
After years of talking about hosting the Auction together, schedules aligned and the conversations between Mark and Ryan became a reality. “I’m co-hosting with Ryan because I believe so heavily in the foundation of faith and in the relationship with Jesus Christ that Wisco gave me. We have a different purpose in life when we have him in mind,” says Wilson. “I want as many kids as possible to have the opportunity to attend Wisco and start their day with Christ as their guide.” WHERE SUCCESS MEANS MORE
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Veterans Honor Roll
Since our last issue, we’ve heard from many more alumni who have served or are serving in the Armed Forces. For any who are not included on this list, please accept our heart-felt thanks for your service. For those who haven’t been listed, please share your contact and service information with Cindy (Fitzsimmons) Krueger (‘99) – cynthia.krueger@wlhs.org or 414-453-4567 ext. 2018.
Sally Crosby (’01)† Matt Martz (’04) Doug Saugstad (’05) Janette Ellam (’11) Max Sader ('11) Drew Konkol (’16) Abby Emmrich (’20)
Air Force
Army
Bob Klabunde (’48) Ken Ristow (’48)† Howard Raasch (’54) Gus Thoms (’59) Dick Boese (’60) Lyn Grunze (’60) Arnold Brown (’61) Thomas Roddy (‘61) Richard Schulte (’64) Rich Engel (’65) Malcom Wolff (’65) Don Metoxen (’65) Larry Rehborg (65) Larry Pankonin (’67) Jim Guenther (’67) Dennis Szymanski (’68) Bob Manke (’68) Robert Reichert (’68) Donna (Bryce) Herbison (’70) Donald Bryce (’71) Michael Sader (’71) Roy Breiling (’72) Pat Engel (’72) Michael Knautz (’72) Rod Raasch (’74) Sylvia (Huth) Thur (’74) Terry Evans (‘80) Daniel Doerr (’82) Edward Kondracki (’83) Ron Thurow (’85) Michael Emmrich (’92) Erin Delaney (’94) Mark Scherbarth (’94) Matthew Huebner (’94) Danielle (Nolte) Roos (’99) Daniel Fockel (’99) Jason Benzing (’00) Anna (Thiel) Schmidt (’01)
Bill Guenther (’35)† Art Scherbarth (’36)† Walter Brandt (’36)† Russell Jeske (’38)† Herman Meyer (’41) Dick Raabe (’41)† Ralph Raasch (’42) Harold Kaiser (’44)† Dick Waldschmidt (’45) Lynn Johnson (’47)† Wes Plough (’50) Dave Lemke (’51) Gene Christophersen (’52)† Max Bertram (’54) Ken Nigel (’57) Philip Becker (’59) Walter Groth (’61) David Farrington (’63) John Morgan (’63) Bob Lehninger (’63) Paul Bugenhagen (’63) William Kante (’63) Bill Sukkert (’65)† Michael Claffey (’65)† Rich Scherer (’65) David Anker (’65) Richard Arndt (’65) Fletcher Burks (’66) Jeff Heebner (’66) Jim Zess (’66) Paul Manske (’66) Ken Parker (’66) Thomas Senft (’67) Hans Metzger (’67) Roger Vanselow (’68) Richard Passow (’68) David Stirmel (’69) Jerry Scherbarth (’70)†
† denotes passed away
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WISCONSIN LUTHERAN HIGH SCHOOL || Spring 2021
Steven Metzger (’74) Kurt Nygaard (’75) Gwen (Huth) Klawien (’80) Amy (Rehm) Ankenbauer (’85) Linda (Hanson) Burke (’84) Jim Nygaard (’86) Jeff Tiegs (’87) Johnny Davis (’87) Jeffery Exferd (’90) Jennifer (Ardnt) Dineen (’91) Michael Falk (’92) Nick Imig (’94) Matt Dawson (’96) John Aldinger (’97) Eric Christie (’98) Thomas Abts (’98) Chris Raasch (’99) Jennifer Robinson (’99) Ben Thiel (’99) Alvarao Pichardo (’00) Matt Helwer (’03) Craig Kuphall (’03) Kyle Snamiska (’06) Thomas Tranberg (’07) Brent Krohn (’07) Chelsea (Miller) Metzger (’11) Logan Nygaard (’12) Jacob Nygaard (’16) Alyssa King (’18) Cameron Wanzo (’18) Nathanael Widdifield (’18) Jacob Corbett (’18) Brittany Adelmund (’18)
Coast Guard
Victor Rose (’56)
Navy
Ed Nimmer (’42) Beverly (Stark) Christensen (’50)† Jon Schumacher (’55) George Gross (’63)† Randy Naker (’67) Steven Rehborg (’73) Randy Schallert (’73) Heidi (Holfert) Allan (’78)
Richard Ristow (’86) Jason Baltutis (’90) Chris Whitlock (’92) Donna (Barbasiewicz) Spalding (’96) Ian Stumpe (’02) Matt Riege (’04) Ryan Roman (’04) Isaias Merino (’18) Zachary Baltutis (’20)
Marines
Fred Bartz (’47) Ray Cox (’50) Jim Schumacher (’51) Robert Molkentine (’55) Ron Schalig (’60) Michael Young (’62) Rickey Gilbertson (’65) Daniel Huth (’67) Mark Stieglitz (‘68) Paul Schaefer (’68) John Frailing (’68) Thomas Hando (’84) Rick Martinez (’91) Paul Wolfgramm (’04) Mike Weiland (’07) Dominique Covington (’11)
WLHS Alum Leads U.S. Air Force Bands
Dr. Roy Breiling (’72) and Ruth (Kitzerow) Breiling (’72) became high school sweethearts thanks to the Viking band program.
Roy continued his band directing career at Bethany Lutheran College and (Dr.) Martin Luther College in Minnesota, at Eastern Arizona College in Thatcher, and at Yavapai College in Prescott, Arizona, until his retirement in 2014. He earned his Doctor of Musical Arts degree from the University of Arizona. “We had such a good band experience at Wisco. It really was a catalyst for us to be life-long musicians,” says Ruth. “Even though we’re retired, music is still part of our lives. I play organ and piano at church and Roy is teaching a music appreciation class at a local university.” Dr. Roy Breiling (’72) and Ruth (Kitzerow) Breiling (’72)
“Our lives together really began with the Wisco band,” says Ruth. “We feel blessed we were able to go to a Lutheran high school where we met each other, our love blossomed, and we made life-long friends.” The couple married in 1978, after graduating from different colleges, and began an adventurous and musical life that took them to places throughout the United States. Roy spent three years directing high school bands in northern Wisconsin and then was accepted into the competitive and prestigious U.S. Air Force Band. (By this time, he had earned a Master of Music degree.) Roy served for eight years as Commander and Conductor of Air Force bands at Lackland AFB in San Antonio, Keesler AFB in Biloxi, Mississippi, and McGuire AFB in North Hanover Township, New Jersey.
And, no matter where they lived, the Breilings continued their connection with WLHS. “We maintained our high school friendships and came back for reunions,” says Ruth.
“I have Wisco friends who are like sisters to me so I’ve actually helped plan our 40th, 45th and 50th reunions.” — Ruth Breiling
“I really enjoyed the level of musicianship in the Air Force bands. Every member was a phenomenal musician and some even had master’s degrees in performance on their instruments,” says Roy. His Air Force bands toured frequently and played at many signature events, including the 1984 World’s Fair in New Orleans, the 1987 World Series in New York, and at a graduation ceremony where President Ronald Reagan was giving the commencement address. In 1988, Roy left active duty and spent an additional 15 years in the Air Force Reserves, retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel.
Dr. Roy Breiling's official USAF Band Commander and Conductor photo (left) and Dr. Breiling conducting the Air Force Band of the East from McGuire AFB, NJ in Schubert Alley, New York City 1986 (right)
WHERE SUCCESS MEANS MORE
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Alumni Updates
Dr. Dawn Sonntag ('80) received her Doctor of Musical Arts, composition and voice performance, from the University of Minnesota. Since then, she has had a busy professional career both domestically and internationally as a pianist, singer, and choral conductor. Her opera, Verlorene Heimat, is a semifinalist in the American Prize for Opera Composition. Dan Doerr ('82) will be retiring after 37 years of government service. He worked as an air traffic controller for 11 years at Chicago Air Route Traffic Control Center and 18 years at General Mitchell International Airport in Milwaukee. Before this, Dan was in the U.S. Air Force for 7 years. Mark Chappel (’84) was named president of Lemberg Electric Company, Inc. on November 2, 2020. Mark has 35 years of experience which he can apply to the strategic direction of the company.
Lori (Hardrick) Thimm (‘92) was featured on the University of Minnesota Twin Cities athletic website as part of the school’s tribute to Black History Month. Lori captured the state title in high jump while at WLHS. She continued on to break records in college, becoming one of the best sprinters in Minnesota history.
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Riley Kehoe (’99) will be inducted into the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater Department of Intercollegiate Athletics 56th Hall of Fame Class. Riley was a standout distance runner for the UW-Whitewater men's cross country and track and field programs between 1999-2004.
On April 10, 2020 Brenda (Kuphall) Helm (’99) and husband, Nicholas, welcomed their first child, Kelsey Kathryn. The Helm family currently resides in Wauwatosa.
Amy (Kant) Ridenour (’01) and husband, Paul, welcomed their first child, Lucille Ruth, on September 23, 2020. She joins big sister Piper (8). The Ridenour family resides in Waukesha.
Robyn (Kolosovsky) Sabich ('01) and her husband, Nathan, welcomed their fourth child, Remy Dale, on December 30, 2020. He is joined by his three older siblings Arie (7), Hugh (6), and Fina (3). Chris Sheble ('02) recently graduated Pharmacy School at Creighton University and continues his 15+ year career at Children's Hospital of Wisconsin now as a pharmacist. Chris is married to Megan who is a Sr. Project Manager. The couple resides in Waukesha. Cody J. Fitzwilliams ('03) and wife, Andrea, welcomed their second child, Elisha Ebenezer, on August 28, 2020. Elisha joins big brother, Benjamin. Elisha was baptized on November 22, with his aunt Melina and uncle Carlos Eduardo Pico as godparents. The family resides in New Berlin. Dylan Applin ('10) and wife, Stephanie, welcomed their first child, Harrison Tom, on August 11, 2020. Dylan is in his first year of residency in Diagnostic Radiology at the Medical College of Wisconsin.
Marcus ('10) and Karah (Parbs) Radue (’10) welcomed their second child, son Mason Joel, on November 25, 2020. He is joined by big sister, Caroline.
Liz Henke (’10) received a Top Teacher award by WTOC news this January. She teaches first and second grade at Risen Savior Academy in Pooler, Georgia.
Haley (Nitz) Arndt ('11) and husband, Christopher, welcomed daughter Larkyn Elisabeth on September 28, 2020. She joins her brothers Augustus (3) and Finnegan (2). Haley serves as the Event Coordinator for WELS Lutherans for Life. The Arndt family resides in Watertown. Sgt. Nolan P. McShane ('12) was named Marine of the Year by the United Service Organizations (USO). His quick thinking in a crisis saved a severely wounded marine during a training exercise, making him one of the outstanding service members of the year.
Alumni Updates
Hannah Leverence ('16), Drew Konkol ('16), Elizabeth Mariscal ('16), Ian Wirtz ('16), and Matt Plaski ('16). Parents of the bride and groom included Wisco alumni Steve Reinhardt ('79), Sue (Weiss) Eick ('79) and Dan Eick ('79). Anne is a registered nurse and Joseph is an IT Rotational Analyst. The couple resides in Wauwatosa.
Analysia (Rivera) Beck ('16) and husband, Daniel, welcomed a son, Jayce Julian, on June 11, 2020.
Jamie (Genrich) ('17) and Joseph Stephens-Perez ('17) were married in El Paso, Texas on January 10, 2021. Jamie graduated from Kent State University in August with a Bachelor's in Fashion Merchandising and works as a Fabric Inventory Control Specialist at a military garment manufacturer. Joseph is the Director of Operations at Complete Fire and Water Restoration. Zachary Baltutis (’20) graduated from basic training and is headed to Engineering School at the Great Lakes Naval Station. After school, Zachary will be headed to the USS Gunston Hall (LSD-44) in Virginia Beach as his permanent duty station.
On January 7, 2021, Candy (Stack) Noffsinger ('12) and husband, Ryan, welcomed their first child, daughter Waverly Joy. Candy works as a first grade teacher at St. Paul's Lutheran School, Muskego. The Noffsinger family resides in West Allis. Anne (Reinhardt) Eick ('16) and Joseph Eick ('16) were married on December 12, 2020, at Christ Ev. Lutheran Church in Milwaukee. The couple celebrated an unofficial Wisco reunion with wedding party members Emily Frey ('16), Billy Hammarstrom ('15), Stephen Eick ('11), Doug Reinhardt ('18),
Share the Love
We’re celebrating love and are looking to collect wedding anniversary dates. Please share your dates by emailing abby.rasmussen@wlhs.org. WHERE SUCCESS MEANS MORE
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Reunions
Class of 1946 The Class of 1946 will be celebrating their 75-year reunion on Friday, September 10, 2021, at Alioto's Restaurant (3041 N Mayfair Rd, Milwaukee, WI). Check-in will begin at 11:00 a.m., a class photo will be taken at 11:30 a.m., and lunch will be served at 12:00 p.m. For more information, contact Betty Biesterfeld at 414-810-0009. Class of 1956 The Class of 1956 will be celebrating their 65-year reunion on September 16, 2021, at 11:30 a.m. at Alioto's Restaurant (3041 N Mayfair Rd, Milwaukee, WI). Contact Mary Buestrin at 414-352-9396 for more information. Postponed - Class of 1966 & 1976 The Class of 1966 & 1976 have postponed their reunion celebrations until 2022 for safe, social events. Class of 1970 & 1971 The Class of 1970 & 1971 are planning a JOINT 50-year reunion on Saturday, September 18, 2021, in the WLHS Atrium from 5:30-10:00 p.m. Cost is $60 per person. A pre-party event will be held the day before, on Friday, Septebmer 17. Join the Facebook wlhsclassof1970 group for more information.
Do you have a reunion in 2021? All LHS and WLHS classes with graduating years ending in a 1 or 6 (ex: 1981, 2006) are celebrating reunions in 2021! If you would like to assist with planning your reunion celebration, please contact Cindy Krueger ('99), Director of Alumni Relations, at cynthia.krueger@wlhs.org or 414-453-4567 ext. 2018. We’re catching up with two alums who graduated five and 15 years ago. Allison Lunow (’16) Industrial Engineer Mercury Marine, Fond du Lac “My career is exactly what I wanted. I’m in manufacturing and am making processes better, reducing costs, and increasing efficiency.”
Class of 1970, contact Deb Sloane at 414-881-4090 or dsloane@gmail.com for more information. Class of 1971, contact Dianne Robertson at probertson1@wi.rr.com or Mike Sader at thesaders87@gmail.com for more information. Class of 1980 & 1981 The Class of 1980 and Class of 1981 are holding a JOINT 40-Year Reunion. Save the date for Saturday, July 24, 2021. A new venue was booked because the previous venue had COVID capacity restrictions. The NEW VENUE is the Racine Civic Centre – Memorial Hall. Invitations will be sent out soon. Class of 1980, contact Nancy Gittel at nancy.gittel@wels.net and Julie Maiwald at jlmwld@yahoo.com for more information. Class of 1981, contact Glen Jones, 262-989-2741 or glen.jones.wlea@gmail.com for more information.
For up-to-date information about class reunions, visit wlhs.org/reunions. 12
WISCONSIN LUTHERAN HIGH SCHOOL || Spring 2021
Allison Lunow
“My junior year at Wisco I went to the Career Fair and talked to a female industrial engineer. I knew right then that’s what I wanted to do. When I was in college at UW-Platteville, I quickly realized how well the Project Lead the Way® classes prepared me and put me ahead of my classmates. Some of my peers had never been exposed to the labs, projects, and tests I did in high school.”
Emily (Rasmussen) Krause ('06) Travel Writer & Podcaster “A Mom Explores” blog and “Travel with Kids” podcast “Wisco prepared me to be a good and flexible writer. As part of my AP classes, I learned how to write for different audiences, scenarios, and formats. That Emily Krause helped me as I started writing for a travel website and my own blog about traveling with kids. This January, I launched my “Travel with Kids” podcast that offers tips and tricks for family travel, deep dives into planning trips to specific destinations, and a few funny stories about the chaos that comes with parenting on-the-go.”
In the six months I’ve been at WLHS, it’s become extremely evident that the work being done inside and outside the halls of this institution is incredible and has a worldwide impact. I am amazed by the connections to WLHS that I had prior to beginning in my role and am truly blessed for the new and extended relationships that I have developed in such a short period of time. I have found that the love for the mission and ministry come to us in so many different ways and is important to the future of WLHS. Many people mistakenly think that philanthropic gifts are complex and expensive to develop but that’s not necessarily the case. I wanted to share a few recent examples of unique and simple gifts that can have a huge impact on our ministry.
Qualified Charitable Distribution – In effect, this is a Required Minimum Distribution from a Qualified Retirement Account but, instead of receiving the proceeds, a direct transfer is sent to a charity of your choice . . . like WLHS.
Jesus as a Beneficiary – Here’s an example.
Living Trust Beneficiary – Do the same as option number two but name the four recipients as the beneficiaries of your Living Trust. A Living Trust is an instrument used in estate planning and is something to discuss with your family attorney.
t
t
t
I have three children listed as primary or contingent beneficiaries on my life insurance policy or retirement account, each receiving 33.3% of my death benefit or account value. I name WLHS as another beneficiary and now all 3 kids and WLHS will receive 25% of the policy or account. Your financial advisor should be able to help with this.
There are many ways to remember WLHS with a final gift. If you find it in your heart to make such a gift and would like to learn more about these options, or some of the many other philanthropic giving options, I’d enjoy the opportunity to visit with you. Each of you have a unique and colorful story about your time or experience with WLHS. I look forward to hearing your story and building a relationship with you soon.
Eric Ruh
Mr. Eric Ruh is the Director of Planned Giving at WLHS.
In Loving Memory Class of 1958 Judith (Bohlmann) Helmke January 27, 2021
Class of 1947 Gertrude Wenzel December 10, 2020 Class of 1948 Eileen Schnell March 25, 2020
Class of 1959 Alan Merten May 21, 2020
Class of 1949 Lee Grundman August 23, 2020 Class of 1950 Ruth (Ihlenfeldt) Hafeman May 28, 2019 Class of 1951 Janice (Peterson) Podewils December 24, 2020
Class of 1968 Robert Peppler November 16, 2020
Suzanne (Degner) Gieschen January 9, 2019
Class of 1970 DuWayne Sukkert September 28, 2020
Class of 1952 Helene (Berg) Degele December 16, 2020
Class of 1972 Sandra (Karpinski) Pucher March 20, 2020
Class of 1953 Donald Henckel November 14, 2020
Class of 1978 Paul Liebau January 24, 2020
Class of 1954 Frederic Behling October 20, 2019
Paul Stiemke November 27, 2020
Frederic Tank December 19, 2020 Class of 1955 Bernadine (Propp) Carow November 11, 2020
Robert Griepentrog December 17, 2020
Class of 1964 Mark Becker November 21, 2020 Class of 1965 Robert Neuhofer March 10, 2020
Richard Kaphingst May 8, 2018
Class of 1956 Ronald Severson November 24, 2020
Class of 1962 Wallis Oppitz November 24, 2020
Class of 1981 Julie (Frederick) LaPointe August 12, 2018 Matthew Marinko September 14, 2014 Class of 1991 Jocelyn (Schultz) Hanson March 12, 2020 Class of 2004 Steven Scherbarth August 12, 2019
WHERE SUCCESS MEANS MORE
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School News Academics
Todd Schulz, vice president of Weather Tight Corp, spoke to a group of woodworking students about careers in the trades and home remodeling industry.
Hannah Behroozi (’21) and Alexandra Miles ('21) advanced to National Merit Finalist standing in the National Merit Scholarship Competition. To compete as a finalist, Behroozi and Miles submitted their SAT scores, high school transcripts, extra curricular and volunteer activities, and a self-descriptive essay. The young women are now part of a prestigious group of 15,000 finalists who will receive a Merit Scholarship Award and are eligible for a National Merit Scholarship.
School News
The WLHS website now includes a virtual tour to introduce students and parents to the campus and showcase its offerings. The tour features 15 stops, including visits to: • Science, math and engineering classrooms • Culinary arts and fashion tech labs • Wood shop and band room • Library, gymnasium and outdoor athletic complex • Honey Creek Hall, a suite-style dormitory for domestic and international students On January 20, WLHS held its annual worship service to recognize the Civil Rights Movement. Pastor Carlos Leyrer, president of Divine Savior Ministries, Doral, Florida, gave the chapel address and Vicente Janik (‘21) and Ouray Harper (‘21) read Scripture lessons.
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WISCONSIN LUTHERAN HIGH SCHOOL || Spring 2021
Co-curriculars
It may be spring but this past winter the WLHS Fine Arts Department debuted an Advent Calendar of songs. The videos were so popular that they led to an 800% increase in the WLHS YouTube channel. To watch the videos, visit wlhs.org/finearts. Two Viking wrestlers, Amos Weide ('21) and David Carson ('21), capped their seasons and careers with an appearance at the WIAA State Individual Championships. Weide placed fifth and Carson placed seventh. At the Woodland Conference tournament, Carson placed first and is the first Wisco wrestler to be a three-time conference champion since WLHS joined the Woodland Conference. At conference, Weide placed second in his weight class.
The WLHS Forensics Team took home Third Place Small Team win at the virtual Union Grove Tournament. Individual recognition goes to: Stephanie Noeske ('22), second place in Farrago; Luke Wegner ('21), third place in Special Occasion; and Mercedes Rzepkowski ('21), fourth place in Farrago.
The Wisco varsity cheerleading team competed virtually at the iCheer Championship and took home first place out of nine teams. They also had three top finishers in individual routines.
Winter Festival 2021 was celebrated under the theme "Old Hollywood." Students participated in dress-up days, lunchtime activities and, on Thursday night, senior Corey Tipton won the prestigious title of Mr. Wisco. The week capped off with a socially distanced pep rally. Cheer and dance teams performed, and basketball and wrestling teams were introduced. Pictured on the front cover is the 2021 festival court which included: Benjamin Brown (Trinity Lutheran School, Waukesha) escorted by Sydney Mueller (St. Paul's Lutheran School, Muskego), king Samuel Hartman (St. Marcus Lutheran School, Milwaukee) escorted by Leah Pinnow (Trinity Lutheran School, Waukesha), and Isaiah Hopf (St. Marcus Lutheran School, Milwaukee) escorted by Kayla Williams (St. Sebastian School).
Winter Festival 2021
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. Jacobi St. James St. John’s on the Hillside St. John, Lannon St. John, Milwaukee St. John, Mukwonago 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: Dr. Kenneth Fisher; Editor: Monica Baer (‘87); Design/Layout: Carolyn Sachs; Contributing Writers: Dr. Kenneth Fisher, Monica Baer (‘87); Photography: Attention Era Media, Chuck Cairns, Tony Just Photography, 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 Abby Rasmussen (‘12) at 414-453-4567, ext 2012 or abby.rasmussen@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.
WHERE SUCCESS SUCCESS MEANS MEANS MORE MORE WHERE
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Where Success Means More 330 North Glenview Avenue Milwaukee WI 53213-3379
You’re Invited To 2021 Dinner Auction
Saturday, April 17
Held at Wisconsin Lutheran High School
For more information, visit wlhs.org/events *Virtual and in-person registrations available!
Be a part of this social event by joining our WLHS Online Auction Facebook Group. Share messages and pictures by using #wiscoauction