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SUMMER 2018 | ALUMNI & FRIENDS MAGAZINE
God’s Blessings to the Class of
2018
“You do not lack any spiritual gift as you eagerly wait for our Lord Jesus Christ to be revealed. He will also keep you firm to the end, so that you will be blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus Christ.” 1 Corinthians 1:7-8
GUIDED BY FAITH. DRIVEN BY EXCELLENCE.
Welcome
A Message from Pastor Kenneth Fisher President of the WLHS Conference Thank God for Faculty and Staff— United in Faith and Mission As the class of 2018 graduated, one hundred and fifty-four more names were added to the list of Wisconsin Lutheran High School alumni. Thank God for the faithfulness of our faculty and staff who mold students’ potential into gifts that can bless God’s people well into the future. Six faculty members are also being added to the roll of those who have retired while serving at WLHS. Together those six offered more than 150 years of experience at your school. What a blessing each of them has been to our teens! When people ask me, “What makes WLHS different?” my answer is always: “The faculty and staff who are united in Christian faith and completely committed to Christ’s mission of making disciples of the next generation.” The distinctively Lutheran values shared by the entire faculty and staff are a rare blessing in today’s educational world. What is taught and practiced in our Lutheran churches is mirrored at WLHS by teachers, coaches, directors and mentors. Keep these servants who shape the tender hearts and minds of the next generation in your prayers—and thank God for them! Every day, I am grateful to work alongside people at WLHS who live Paul’s encouragement: “And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” Colossians 3:17 (NIV) In gratitude for the faculty and staff of WLHS,
Dr. Kenneth Fisher President of WLHS P.S. Please consider a gift to support the work that the faculty and staff do to change lives. An envelope is enclosed if you wish to help them make a difference.
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WISCONSIN LUTHERAN HIGH SCHOOL || Summer 2018
In This Issue
Guided by Faith Meet the Class of 2018 Driven by Excellence WLHS Grad Heads to Harvard 2018 Dinner Auction 2018 Graduation Fond Farewells Attention Alumni! Young Alumni Leadership Council Grapevine/Reunions School News WLHS Baptisms
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 4-7 Pages 8-9 Page 9 Page 10-11 Pages 12-13 Page 14-15 Page 15 Page 16 Page 17-21 Pages 22-23 Back cover
August 13 & 14 August 15 August 16 September 17 September 19 October 5 October 7
View additional events and get more information at 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 2018 senior class.
Guided by Faith
Hahms Enveloped and Uplifted During Time of Need
“The Wisco family is vast and strong and so caring. The sheer number of prayers that have stormed the throne on James’ behalf is staggering.” —Kari Hahm (wife of James)
It was an event the Hahm family of seven wasn’t prepared for but a medical emergency unleashed a flood of Christian love, encouragement and support. This spring, James Hahm, a trade and technology teacher at WLHS, suffered a massive heart attack and was found in a hallway at the high school by a security guard. Kari Hahm, James’ wife, says God has been holding their hand ever since and has put people in place to walk with them. Right away, WLHS Principal Phil Leyrer started a prayer chain and became a central communication point, sharing updates on their behalf. The WLHS band and many, many others purchased gift cards so the Hahms wouldn’t have to worry about food and other expenses. The teachers took up a collection and presented the family with an envelope of cash.
Unwavering Faith
As James’ medical situation unfolded, Kari shared updates on Facebook. March 9 – “Because I live, you also will live.” John 14:19 “Jesus promises that. Had James gone to heaven on Tuesday night this passage would have given me great comfort. God has made a way for me to spend eternity with James. But not yet. James lives! Every time I hold his warm hand, breathe in his smell, even pull up his socks, I am reminded. James lives! And I
James and Kari Hahm surrounded by their children. Isaiah (back left) and Lydia (back right) both attend WLHS. am so grateful.”
Miracle Update
“As a father, James couldn’t do anything for his kids but those dollars gave him the ability to tell them to get what they wanted from the hospital cafeteria and not to worry about how we were going to pay for it,” says Kari. “There were texts, emails, phone calls, letters and cards with Bible verses, hymns and prayers that were so beautiful and lifted us up daily.”
Just days after the heart attack, Kari wrote, “Want a miracle prayer? Pray for the miracle that James’ heart is 100% restored. Doctors know that’s not possible. But God knows how to get around that.”
Two retired WLHS teachers, Roger Festerling and Lee Westphal, volunteered to cover James’ classes and Josh Nitz (‘07) pitched in to help with welding. The student body created a video to share their thoughts, prayers and faith in God with James.
On April 23, James returned to his classroom—not because the school asked him to come back but because he wanted to be back. James is currently doing cardiac rehab three days a week and his doctors say his prognosis for a long, healthy life is good.
Doctors originally predicted just 50% of James’ heart would survive. However, a May scan revealed approximately 65% has recovered!
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Meet the Class of 2018
On May 26, 154 young men and women graduated from Wisconsin Lutheran High School.
Brittany Adelmund Jayla Anderson Damion Ashford Jr. Zachary Asik Daniel Augustine Mariah Avery Lauren Bacik
Heaven Bausley Alivea Baxter Tyler Beaver Noah Berger Austin Bertram Nia Bethly Tatianna Biddle
Anthony Bishop Jr. Jachon Bivens-Crowder Abigail Bloomquist Seth Boese Mary Kay Bonow Alexander Bremer Gregory Brisolara
Ar’mani Buckley Zachary Bush Tyler Cairns Paul Villamarin Calderon Rafael Cano-Telles Elijah Carson Casey Chaffin
Maranda Chapman Xinyue (Bella) Chen Paris Coleman Carlo Concha Jacob Corbett Donovan Dawson Perla De Santiago
Emily DeCleene Madyson Derouin Elisha Doerr Binhui (Jackson) Dong Olivia Eisenhauer Matthew Enevold Hannah Falkner
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WISCONSIN LUTHERAN HIGH SCHOOL || Summer 2018
VaniaMarie Fields Hannah Frick Michael Fromm Emmanuel Fuentes Kira Fulbright Ran (Strife) Gao Deajia Garcia
Mckenna Godager Faith Goede Reagan Goede Meg Grady Sydney Graf Jessika Gray Anna Hahm
Khanh (Kate) Hang-Nguyen Heather Hill Vanessa Hoene Chonghui (Charlie) Huangqi Dacheng (Andrew) Jiang Anna Johnson Sarahgrace Johnson
Sierra Jones Timothy Karis Mikayla Kiedrowski Kaitlyn Kieselhorst Alyssa King Alexa Koltermann Lauren Konkol
Nicholas Krause Anna Kuether Hannah Lara JoonSoo (Joon) Lee Haibo (Brady) Li Muyao (Jack) Li StarLynne Llanas
Faith Loberg Jimmie Lockett III Meghan Ludke Kailey Luehring Hannah Lukasik Katherine Lunow Brandon Mars
Class Hymn:
Class Colors:
Class Flower:
How Great Thou Art
Purple and Silver
Maroon Rose
GUIDED BY FAITH. DRIVEN BY EXCELLENCE.
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Elizabeth Marshall Edwin Martinez Sydnee McDowell Ashley McKenzie Jamar McKinney Isaias Merino Samuel Meyer
Montana Mickol Quincy Minor Jr. Jessica Mondragon Ronald Moore Jr. Auston Murrell Ethen Nass Taylor Nedbal
Yan Wing (Elizabeth) Ng Michael Nickels Hailey Orlowski Andres Padilla Ethan Pearson Yutong (Rondo) Peng Alexis Perez-Medina
Adler Peterson Noah Petraske Andrew Polzin Maddison Raabe Douglas Reinhardt Samantha Reinke Brennen Rice
Westen Richter ShiAnn Ricks Tera Riley Tevin Riley Ethan Rindfleisch D’Angelo Robinson Lucas Roecker
Tanayah Ross Kelly Schoensee Amaya Sims Helena Sloan Aaron Snyder Nicholas Strautmann Jeremiah Swanson
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WISCONSIN LUTHERAN HIGH SCHOOL || Summer 2018
Evan Swiontek Cierra Teague Carley Techlin Jack Tomasino Thomas Tremaine Kobe Turner Kristin Uher
Daylivette Vazquez Citlaly Vega Hser Wa Megan Wandschneider Cameron Wanzo Gabrielle Wegner Jordan Weide
Nathanael Widdifield Kayla Wiese Brunard Williams Takara Williams Carringtin Wilson Ge’Anthony Winters Nathaniel Wranovsky
Ziyue (Kary) Xu Zihan (Yoyo) Yin Yiding (Gilbert) Zhang Sihua (Simon) Zheng Nadia Zuniga Not pictured: Somarie Davis and James Ringo
Class Motto: We know not what the future holds, but we know who holds the future.
GUIDED BY FAITH. DRIVEN BY EXCELLENCE.
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Driven by Excellence
My Summer Plans – WLHS students are flexing their leadership muscles, volunteering and gaining real-world experience this summer. Austin Ast (‘19)
Alicia Webb (‘19)
Cadet Leadership Officer, Civil Air Patrol
Intern, 6th District Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs
St. Charles Borromeo Parish School, Milwaukee
Since age 12, Ast has been a member of the Civil Air Patrol, which focuses on aerospace Austin Ast education, character and leadership development and physical fitness. This summer, as Cadet Chief Master Sergeant, he’ll be in charge of 30 cadet leaders during the weeklong Wisconsin Wing Summer Encampment that’s attended by 200 students.
St. Marcus Lutheran School, Milwaukee
To advance her understanding of government and politics, Webb is interning at Milwaukee Alicia Webb City Hall in the office of Alderwoman Milele Coggs. The internship is part of her plan to major in criminal justice during college. Her summer also includes a WLHS mission trip to Colombia and working at Gilles Frozen Custard.
Hannah Gorski (‘19)
Saint Lucas Lutheran School, Bay View Junior Counselor, Camp Phillip Gorski has a passion for volunteering. For the third year in a row, she’s serving as a junior counselor at Camp Hannah Gorski Phillip. In 2017, Gorski was recognized with a Prudential Spirit of Community Award for her work with the Milwaukee Rescue Mission, Ronald McDonald House, Camp Phillip and a number of other organizations.
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WISCONSIN LUTHERAN HIGH SCHOOL || Summer 2018
Jensen Eismann (‘21)
Brookfield Christian School, Brookfield National Youth Leadership Forum (NYLF) in Business Innovation, Yale University To further his dream of becoming an entrepreneur, Eismann is Jensen Eismann immersing himself in a weeklong start-up experience. Along with other like-minded high school students, he’ll learn from business gurus, innovate an idea, take it to investors and compete against peers in a “shark tank” exercise.
Joshua (Lecheng) Lyu (‘19) Shanghai Ivy School, Shanghai, China
The Junior Academy of the New York Academy of Sciences, Shanghai Migrant Worker Volunteer Project Lyu’s summer plans include a mix of volunteer work, academic advancement, violin and piano practice and family time. His academic pursuits include his third year with the Science Talent Program in Shanghai and participation in an elite, invitation-only online Junior Academy focused on STEM. Joshua Lyu
Tyler Beaver, (‘18)
Woodlands School, Milwaukee Arts Initiative, AmeriCorps Member Beaver is adding to his resume and college fund by working for Americorp, teaching children the basics of art. Last summer, Tyler Beaver he secured a paid internship at marketing agency Laughlin Constable. In the fall, he’s attending MATC on the Panther Track, which allows him to transfer to the University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee to complete his degree in graphic design.
This summer,
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WLHS students are participating in mission trips covering
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countries
WLHS Grad Heads to Harvard
A week before graduation, senior Elisha Doerr got good news from one of the nation’s most prestigious institutions. Doerr learned he’d been accepted into Harvard University and would receive a four-year scholarship of approximately $300,000. Doerr, who is ranked 12th in his class, achieved a perfect 36 on his ACT and took five Advanced Placement (AP) classes at WLHS – Calculus BC, U.S. History, Psychology, Chemistry and English.
“The AP classes at Wisco really prepared me for college, including Mr. Gottschalk’s calculus class.” Doerr says. “Spiritually, I appreciated that Pastor Becker made sure we understood any questions we had in his religion classes.” In addition to advanced academics, Doerr took full advantage of co-curriculars at WLHS. He was co-captain of the Robotics Team, sang with Inspiration (a vocal jazz group), participated in the Photo Club, performed in plays and musicals and was a member of National Honor Society, Student Council and Wisco Witnesses in the World. “We praise God that Elisha is pursuing his dreams,” says Principal Phil Leyrer. “And we are proud of our faithful teachers, staff members and coaches who helped prepare him to be ‘salt and light’ in the world.” Doerr is the son of Carrie and Pastor Christopher Doerr and worships at St. James Lutheran Church, Milwaukee.
Did You Know? 4 Elisha Doerr is one of just 1,962 students accepted into Harvard’s Class of 2022.
4 Harvard University received 42,749 applications this year. 4 This year marks the first time Harvard’s admission rate has dipped below 5 percent. GUIDED BY FAITH. DRIVEN BY EXCELLENCE.
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Dinner Auction a Smashing Success
It was a record-breaking year for the 2018 WLHS Dinner Auction! More than $400,000 was raised to fund tuition assistance and support the ongoing work and ministry of the high school.
The father-and-son team of Jim ('67) (left) and Jeff ('01) Guenther (right) hosted the 2018 Auction.
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Zhana and Cal Guenther show their Wisco pride with father Jeff ('01) and mother Nissa (Lenga) ('01).
WISCONSIN LUTHERAN HIGH SCHOOL || Summer 2018
Dave Rodgers raises his winning "Kwik Trip Gas for a Year" raffle ticket.
More than 50 student volunteers helped make the Auction a success by greeting attendees, serving dinner and assisting with mobile bidding.
Wisco supporters Tim and Megan Mueller chat with friends during the silent auction.
The class of ’87 was well represented with two tables full of classmates: (left to right, front row) Monica Carlson, Mike Imberger, Denise Polcyn, Shelley Orlowski (back row) Wendy Greenfield, Tim Mierendorf, Andy Goede, John Schlueter and Eric Lueck.
Attendees who purchased raffle tickets for the trip to Hawaii got a lei as part of the fun.
Millienial attendees took the auction by storm this year and filled a number of tables.
For more auction photos, visit wlhs.org/auction
A variety of silent auction items were available for bid, including a Moscow Mule basket.
GUIDED BY FAITH. DRIVEN BY EXCELLENCE.
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To God the Glory!
Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain. (1 Corinthians 15:58) —Senior Class Verse for 2018 The Class of 2018 Academic Top 10 (Pictured left to right) Back row: Kristin Uher - #8 Lucas Roecker - #5 (tied) Hannah Lukasik - #4 Ethan Rindfleisch - #9 Lauren Konkel - #3 Anna Hahm - #10 Front row: Madyson Derouin - #5 (tied) Meghan Ludke - #2 (Salutatorian) Nathan Wranovsky - #1 (Valedictorian) Lauren Bacik - #7
WLHS graduate Paris Coleman celebrates with his parents.
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WISCONSIN LUTHERAN HIGH SCHOOL || Summer 2018
Graduation hug.
With their diplomas in hand, the Class of 2018 is ready for their next chapter in life.
The 2018 commencement service.
The Class of 2018
The 2018 class includes 57 members of the National Honor Society.
The A Cappella choir was led by fellow student Noah Petraske.
72 seniors made Honor Roll 4th quarter with a 3.4 GPA or higher.
Two graduating seniors, Elisha Doerr and Nathan Wranovsky, earned perfect scores on the ACT.
Eight seniors are attending Martin Luther College to pursue the teaching or preaching ministry.
For more graduation photos, visit wlhs.org/photos
Maddison Raabe surrounded by her extended family.
GUIDED BY FAITH. DRIVEN BY EXCELLENCE.
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Fond Farewells
Pastor James Becker (’70) and Denise (Kolander) Becker (’71) will always be remembered for their From Friendship to Marriage class that taught seniors how to establish and nurture healthy, happy, faithfilled relationships.
For Denise, leaving Wisco stirs deep emotions since she’s The Beckers in 2000 been connected to the school her entire life. Her father, Luther, was a math teacher and coach so she grew up running the halls and watching games. She graduated in 1971 and became a member of the faculty in 1998.
Denise Becker
Pastor Becker
Pastor Becker joined WLHS in 1978 and taught many of the religion classes, including Bible Archaeology, Revelation, Living Christianity, Philosophy and From Friendship to Marriage. He cherished the opportunity to preach in chapel and lead students in worship.
Steven Bremer
Marcie Kren completed two stints at WLHS (1991-98 and 2011-18). She taught chemistry, coached volleyball and assisted the Junior Vikings volleyball program. Kren is joining Kettle Moraine Lutheran High School.
Marcie Kren
Joshua Metzger
Joshua Metzger (‘97) used his leadership, teaching and coaching talents during his eight years at WLHS. He’s been director of the Extended Learning Center and Summer Academy and was girls varsity basketball head coach. Metzger is heading to St. Marcus Lutheran School, Milwaukee.
Darrell Roecker
Darrell “Buddy” Roecker served WLHS for 14 years as a teacher, coach and, most recently, assistant principal. During that time, he established strong bonds with his students and the young men he coached during wrestling and football. Roecker will be assistant principal at Winnebago Lutheran Academy.
“Our years teaching together at WLHS were a blessing from God,” says Pastor Becker. “Plus, all five of our children graduated from Wisco. That’s something we’re truly proud of.”
The From Friendship to Marriage class at WLHS will continue and is now being led by Pastor Phil and Becky Huebner. 14
Steven “Skip” Bremer became a Wisco parent in 2006 and joined the school in 2014 to lead the Guidance and Counseling Department. Bremer is returning to his alma mater, Nebraska Evangelical Lutheran High School, to serve as principal.
WISCONSIN LUTHERAN HIGH SCHOOL || Summer 2018
Leanne Ross joined the WLHS faculty in 2001 and taught a variety of classes, including Food Techniques, Keyboarding, Speech, Exploratory Drawing, Drawing 1, Graphic Design and Ceramics. She was also Compass (yearbook) advisor during her years at the high school. Earlier this year, Ross Leanne Ross and fellow teacher Mary Schmal (’71) released The Wandering Pirate Ship for which she created 47 original pen and ink illustrations.
Mary Schmal (’71) has been an energetic force on the faculty for the past 18 years. In addition to teaching Composition, American Literature, Advanced Composition and Speech, Mary Schmal she coached Schmal, 2001 forensics, directed plays and musicals and started the school’s Drama Club.
Gretchen Schram
Attention Alumni!
This summer, Wisco is updating alumni contact information. Visit wlhs.org/alumniupdate to confirm your current information, and we’ll send you this FREE alumni t-shirt!
Gretchen Schram (‘74) has been part of the music and FACE departments for more than two decades. Schram says her head and heart are overflowing with the memories and experiences teaching at WLHS afforded her. Schram, 1998
Steve Zellmer taught nearly every class in the theology curriculum during his 26 years at WLHS. He will always remember the kindness shown to him after his heart attack and bypass surgery, as well as the love he experienced when his son, Steve Zellmer Joshua (’97), was called home to heaven.
Our alumni are important to us! Please visit wlhs.org/alumni for additional information regarding reunions and events. Contact Cynthia (Fitzsimmons) Krueger (‘99), assistant director of alumni development, at cynthia.krueger@wlhs.org or 414-453-4567 ext. 2018 to take a tour of the school or to connect with WLHS!
Zellmer, 1995
This summer, WLHS is welcoming eight new faculty members. We’ll introduce you to these new teachers in the fall.
GUIDED BY FAITH. DRIVEN BY EXCELLENCE.
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Young Alumni Leaders Council Launched
Did you love your years at WLHS? Do you like reconnecting with classmates and meeting new people? If so, the Young Alumni Council (YALC) might be right for you. YALC is a fresh initiative to foster and sustain an ongoing relationship with young Wisco grads. Meet a few of YALC’s inaugural members. Victor Campbell (’06)
Shannen Oesterreich (’11)
Finance Manager, Alcami Corporation
FM106.1 On-Air Personality & Social Media Director, iHeartRadio
“YALC provides me the opportunity to network and collaborate with other Christ-centered individuals. I can also help drive initiatives and give back to an institution that was influential in my life.”
“I’m excited to reconnect with former classmates and young alumni who share a passion for Wisco’s mission while advancing education, leadership and just flat-out having fun while doing something that makes an impact!”
Miles Schwichtenburg (’11) Meghan (Nitz) Walsh (’07) Assistant Director of Alumnae Engagement, Alverno College “Wisco holds a special place in my heart. The faculty, staff and students shaped me into the Christian leader I am today. I am honored to be able to give back to my alma mater in this new, fun, creative and energizing way. As a young leader, I’m excited to be a part of planning the direction of the school I love and supporting the young Christians who are following in our footsteps.”
Customer Service Manager, ITW “I am excited and humbled by the opportunity to give back to an organization like WLHS, which has taught and given me so much. During my time at WLHS, servant-leadership was taught as a cornerstone of how students should carry themselves and my hope is to collaborate with fellow alumni and current students to continue that same message with future generations of Viking alumni.”
We’re recruiting Christcentered, successful, motivated professionals age 25 to 35 to help us keep young alumni engaged with WLHS. Visit wlhs.org to apply or contact Cynthia (Fitzsimmons) Krueger (‘99), assistant director of alumni development, at cynthia.krueger@wlhs.org or 414-453-4567 ext. 2018 for more information. 16
WISCONSIN LUTHERAN HIGH SCHOOL || Summer 2018
YALC
Commitment
• Attend in-person meetings and participate in conference calls • Assist with planning, peer to-peer marketing and execution of activities • Support and attend specific WLHS alumni events • Serve on YALC for two-year term • Support WLHS annually
Kenneth Kremer (’64) wrote Embracing Godly Character: The Christian Community’s Response to a Godless Culture to help parents who struggle with the challenges of raising Godly children in a world that is increasingly hostile to their faith. Mary (Mann) Van Voorhis (’65) facilitated the restoration of the altar at St. Matthew Lutheran Church, Milwaukee. Van Voorhis teamed up with WLHS art teacher Leanne Ross to repaint the relief of the Lord’s Supper and apply an acrylic coating to protect it for years to come. Steve (’76) and Martha (Gehl) Unteutsch (’76) are celebrating their 40th wedding anniversary on October 21, 2018. Scott Hegerty (’94) and his wife, Sara, were blessed with a son, Benjamin, on January 15, 2018. Benjamin joins older siblings Eleanor (7) and John (5). Scott is an associate professor of economics at Northeastern Illinois University, Chicago. Jill (Schactschneider) Archer (’97), a kindergarten teacher at Zion Lutheran School, South Milwaukee, was recognized with a B93.3 Teacher of the Month award in November 2017. As a monthly winner, Jill qualified as a finalist for B93.3’s Teacher of the Year. Rachel (Hurlebaus) Galanis (‘98) was a cast member for the NWI Listen To Your Mother event, a series of live performances about motherhood at the Hobart Art Theater in Indiana. Rachel shared how she is navigating her own self perception of being a mother after she and her family experienced a house fire and lost everything within the last year.
Alumni Grapevine
Jenny (Guenther) Vesely (’98) and her husband, Travis, were blessed with twin girls, Reese Jennette and Briley Loie, on January 19, 2018. The twins join big brother Trace Edward (3). Jenny retired from personal training in 2015 and is a stay-at-home mom. Jenny and Travis now take great pleasure in coaching and helping people get debt free and create cash flow. Ryan Severson (‘99) has been managing partner of Imbibe Bottle House & Taproom in the Maple Valley area of Seattle since March 2016. Cynthia Fitzsimmons (’99) married Carey Krueger on February 4, 2017. The intimate family affair included WLHS alumni: Marcia (Kiecker) Krueger (‘98), Laura (Fitzsimmons) Soldner (‘01), and Ann Fitzsimmons (‘03). Cynthia recently joined WLHS as assistant director of alumni development. Kathryn (Raabe) Moldstad (’00) and her husband, Jake, were blessed with a daughter, Veda, on October 23, 2017. Veda joins big brother Judah (3).
Hollie (Nelson) Szymanski (‘01) and her husband, Andy, were blessed with their fourth child, Max, on January 18, 2018. He is adored by older siblings Abbie (8), Ellie (6) and William (2).
GUIDED BY FAITH. DRIVEN BY EXCELLENCE.
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Amy Kant (’01) married Paul Ridenour on March 18, 2018, and gained a daughter, Piper, (6). The intimate ceremony included Emily (Kant) Schlimme (’04) and Andy Kant (’02). Emily Fons (’01) performed the processional song via recording. Amy works in the communications department at Milwaukee Public Schools and Paul is a maintenance engineering supervisor at Caraustar. They reside in Waukesha and recently launched WorXshop Bowling, a bowling ball company. Chris (’01) and Katie (Robinson) McGrath (’01) were blessed with a son, Nolan Daniel, on December 13, 2017. Nolan joins older sisters Kendal (6) and Aubrie (5).
Holly Nygaard (’10) married Craig Paarfusser on April 28, 2018. WLHS alumni in the wedding party included: Sara Thurber (’11), Robyn (Nygaard) Bennett (’14), Spencer Coulthurst (’11), Logan Nygaard (’12), Jacob Nygaard (’16), and current WLHS student Lucas Nygaard (’20). Holly is a graphic designer at Ascend Design Inc., Muskego. Other WLHS alumni present included: Sara Thurber (’11), Stephanie (Grepo) Turnquist (’11), Shannen Oesterreich (’11), Alyssa Weissman (’11), Kira Hanson (’10), and Katie Krause (’10).
Lindsay Augustynowicz (‘01) married Sam Capizzi in June 2015. On March 6, 2018, they were blessed with a son, Jack. Lindsay is a corporate recruiter at elite Human Capital Group and Sam is an electrician with Uihlein Electric.
Jinny (Curtis) Metzger (‘10) and her husband, Jesse (‘06), were blessed with a daughter, Zoey, on February 23, 2018. Proud older siblings include Adalia (Addie, 1) and Luke (2).
Ian Schaefer (’02) and his wife, April, were blessed with their fourth child, Benjamin Ian, on April 19, 2018. He joins older siblings Josiah (8), Samuel (6) and Emma (3). Ian is an associate principal at Kaleidoscope Academy in Appleton.
Ben Haferman (‘11) his wife, Dorothee, were blessed with a daughter, Thea Margaret, on July 20, 2017. The Haferman trio currently reside in Milwaukee.
Joel Wichmann (’02) and his wife, Alana, were blessed with a son, Miles Oliver, on February 13, 2017. Joel is a pathologists’ assistant for Great Lake’s Pathologists and Aurora Health Care and Alana is a nurse practitioner at the Milwaukee VA Medical Center. Steven Wipijewski (’07) graduated from Kansas City University of Medicine in May 2018 as a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine and will be a resident in family medicine at Aurora St. Luke’s Medical Center in Milwaukee. 18
Rebecca Schulz (’09) married Ben Berger on October 14, 2017. WLHS alumni in the wedding party were Emily Schulz (’07) and Philip Schulz (‘12).
WISCONSIN LUTHERAN HIGH SCHOOL || Summer 2018
Hannah Midthun (’13) married Eric Uher (’13) on July 15, 2017. WLHS alumni in the wedding party included: Claire Williams (’13), Maria (Schlecht) Becker (’13), Jordan Thomson (’13), and Brian Kent (’09). The Uhers graduated from Martin Luther College in December. This May, Hannah accepted a call to teach physical science and human anatomy and physiology at Lakeside Lutheran High School in Lake Mills. Eric accepted a call to teach at Peace Lutheran School in Sun Prairie.
Bethany Kneser (’13) married Matthew Behm on July 22, 2017. Bethany and Matt graduated from Martin Luther College and are now teaching in Aberdeen, South Dakota. Bethany’s parents, Thomas and Sharon (Molkentin) Kneser, both graduated from WLHS in 1973. Other WLHS alumni who were part of the wedding included: Kathryn (Knickelbein) Carlovsky (’98), Allison Henne (’13), and Joshua Kneser (’09).
Football Championship Anniversaries Plans are underway to celebrate two very special championship years for our football program. During Homecoming this fall on Friday, October 5, there will be a special celebration of the 50th anniversary of the ‘68 Football Conference Championship and the 20th anniversary of the ‘98 Football State Championship. Mark your calendars and stay tuned for further details.
In Loving Memory
Class of 1945 Delores (Claus) Raith March 31, 2016
Class of 1946 Marion (Cox) Newman February 7, 2018 Class of 1947 Robert Niedfeldt November 4, 2017 Class of 1952 JoAnne (Manke) Uhl March, 22 2018 Class of 1953 George Wagner December 13, 2017 Class of 1965 Daniel Nitschke June 3, 2018
Former Front Office Employee Kathy Kargus (22 Years of Service) April 5, 2018 Former WLHS Choir Director Harold Hosbach February 12, 2018
Former Home Economics Teacher and Food Services Nadine Krueger March 9, 2018 Former WLHS Teacher and Coach Ronald Unke April 26, 2018 Former Principal and Math Teacher Kenneth Leverence (47 years of service) June 7, 2018
Class of 1966 Gary Peske March 9, 2018 Jeanne (Husz) Miller May 1, 2018 Class of 1972 Thomas Kleist May 9, 2018
Former WLHS Teacher Floyd Schwecke (30 years of service) June 13, 2018
Class of 1974 Kenneth Christensen February 18, 2018
All Alumni – Register now for Wisco Summer Night On Thursday, August 9, 6:00-8:00 p.m., WLHS is hosting a casual alumni gathering. Family members and friends are also invited to attend. Meet at The Landing at Hoyt Park outdoor beer garden, 1800 N. Swan Blvd, Wauwatosa. RSVP at www.wlhs.org/summernight
Visit www.wlhs.org/alumni or call Erin Krug at 414-453-4567 ext. 2012 to share your Grapevine and In Loving Memory updates
Class of 1996 Daniel Manke February 16, 2018
“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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In Loving Memory
Two Dedicated Servants Remembered Kathy Kargus April 5, 2018 Age 62
“My parents were so proud they were able to send my brother and me to Wisco,” adds Ditscheit. “They felt like they set us on a path to success by giving us those years of Christian high school education.”
Kathy Kargus faithfully served WLHS for nearly 22 years and is remembered for her warm, welcoming smile and commitment to Christian education, her children and grandchildren.
In 2017, Steve Kargus (’99) returned to WLHS to coach varsity boys baseball. He was on a spring training trip with the team when he learned his mother had been hospitalized.
“My mom lived to serve others,” says Lisa (Kargus) Ditscheit (’97). “She would do anything for anybody.” In addition to supporting superintendents and presidents in the central office, she willingly lent her hands to special events such as the annual WLHS Dinner Auction and Golf Outing.
Both Steve and Lisa say calls, texts and Facebook messages from Wisco friends and classmates came pouring in. “There were people I hadn’t talked to in 15-20 years who called me,” says Steve. “Even though all that time had passed, we were still connected and immediately had common ground through our faith. That’s something that never leaves you and it’s one of the reasons my mom loved Wisco.”
Beloved by many students and known as “Coach,” Ron Unke (’49) spent 41 years at WLHS. During that time, Unke taught physical education and coached football, baseball, basketball and wrestling and led his teams to a number of championships. When his passing was posted on the WLHS Facebook page, many former students shared their love and respect for Coach. Dave Meier (’73) - One of God’s gifts. He influenced many young people. Jodi (Bruss) Sherman (‘73) - There isn’t a church big enough to hold all of the people whose lives he touched. Brian Pesick (’88) - He was my varsity baseball coach in ‘87 & ‘88 and a true Christian role model. Amanda (Baer) Manke (’98) - I remember the day he retired and we chanted his name forever during chapel. He was the best phy ed teacher ever!
Ron Unke (’49) April 26, 2018, Age 86
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Despite his passing, Unke’s legacy at WLHS lives on. Shortly after his wife, Carol, went to heaven, he established a fully endowed Ron and Carol Unke Scholarship Fund to provide tuition assistance to WLHS students.
Class of 1946
Class of 1967
Reunions
22 members of the class of ’46 attended their 72nd reunion on September 28, 2017. Class of 1953 The Class of 1953 is hosting its 65th reunion in late August 2018. Contact Elaine (Hackbarth) Kraft at 262-376-7641 or erkraft376@att.net for more information. Class of 1955 The class of ’55 is hosting its 63rd reunion on September 21, 11:00 a.m., Alioto’s, 3041 N. Mayfair Rd., Milwaukee. To RSVP, contact Evelyn (Zastrow) Pike at 414-461-7293, epike1@att.net or call Laura (Utech) Statza at 262-797-9058. Class of 1956 The class of ’56 is hosting its 62nd reunion on September 14, 11:30 a.m., Alioto’s, 3041 N. Mayfair Rd., Milwaukee. Class of 1957
52 members of the class of ’67 attended their 50th reunion in August 2017. Many classmates hadn’t visited WLHS since graduation and were amazed at all changes. The class donated $3,500 for the altar, lectern and baptismal font in the auditorium. Class of 1968 The class of ’68 is hosting a two-day 50th reunion this summer. September 14 is a casual get together at The Landing at Hoyt Park outdoor beer garden. September 15 will be at WLHS in the Atrium. For reunion info and to register online, visit wlhs68.com. Contact Peg (Bunge) Raabe, 414-861-1150, rraabe1@wi.rr.com. Class of 1969 The class of ’69 is planning its 50th reunion. To assist with planning or for more details, contact Kent Raabe, kentraabe@icloud.com.
28 members of the class of ‘57 attended their 60th reunion at Thunder Bay Restaurant in Pewaukee. Class of 1958 The class of ’58 is hosting its 60th reunion September 6-7 at Hilton Garden Inn in Oconomowoc. Contact Burton Yanke at 262-251-1045 or bjyanke@sbcglobal. net or Janet (Margal) Radue, wjradue@sbcglobal.net.
Class of 1978 The class of ’78 is hosting its 40th reunion on September 22, 5:00-9:00 p.m., at WLHS in the Atrium. School tours will be given from 5:00-6:00 p.m. If you would like to help with planning, contact Terry (Lassanski) Gilman at 708-297-4492 or terrylynngilman@gmail. com or Mimi (Walther) Muehbach at 262-366-4809 or mimim913@yahoo.com. Class of 1998 The class of ’98 is hosting its 20th reunion this September or October. Contact Nicole (Genthe) Smith at ngenthe@yahoo.com. Class of 2003 The class of ’03 is hosting its 15th reunion on August 11. Time and location TBD. GUIDED BY FAITH. DRIVEN BY EXCELLENCE.
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School News
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1. & 2. Praise God! 11 students were baptized into the Lutheran church on May 1. 3. 32 students were selected to participate in the WLHS Civil Rights Tour held over Easter break. The students visited iconic civil rights cities, including Selma and Montgomery, Ala. 4. & 5. WLHS students performed How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying for the spring musical. 6. Student volunteers pose with alum and NFL player Kevin Zeitler (‘08) at Jr. Viking Night.
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School News 2
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1. 2018 Prom court 2. Students raised $32,362 for a mission project to bring running water to a school in Zambia and provide updated transportation to local pastors who serve in congregations that are spread out over a great distance. 3. The spring Prism concert included a song from the Tony Award winning musical Hamilton. 4. Seniors participated in the first Reunion Zero during their senior lunch the last week of school. Alumni helped put on the event including (pictured left to right): Shannen Oesterreich (’11), Trent Tatge (‘11) and Forest Wu (‘15). More photos from Reunion Zero can be found at wlhs.org/photos
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, 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-Carlson (‘87); Design/Layout: Carolyn Sachs; Contributing Writers: Dr. 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
Baptismal Blessings On May 1, WLHS hosted a special chapel when 11 students received the blessing of baptism. What a joy to see God’s grace richly poured out on these young men and women! On May 25, a 12th student was baptized.