2023 Summer Contact

WLHS Contact

Welcome

A Message from Dr. Ken Fisher President of the WLHS Conference

Praise God for Another Successful School Year!

Dr. Ken Fisher

“Give praise to the Lord, proclaim his name; make known among the nations what he has done” (Psalm 105:1).

As a proud champion of WLHS, I wanted to share a few student highlights and achievements:

• We witnessed 13 students baptized this spring at a special chapel service. In addition, four international students were baptized privately. One asked to be baptized a few days before his graduation. Each is a story of the wonder of God’s grace!

• 218 graduating seniors became proud alumni.

• Our athletic teams won eight Woodland Conference championships along with numerous accolades like boys soccer’s first regional championship and volleyball’s second trip to State in the last three years.

• Our newly formed Future Business Leaders of America team competed at the State competition in Green Bay with five of our students placing in the top eight.

• Despite Covid’s lasting impact, our average ACT composite score increased for the second consecutive year with the largest increases taking place in math, English, and writing.

• We also celebrated our sixth student in the last six years earning a perfect ACT score of 36. Amazingly, he is an international student from Vietnam.

None of this happens without incredible support from people like you.

The costs of the facilities, programs, and staff to operate at such a high level keep increasing. But don’t our teens deserve the best high school experience possible?

Unfortunately, our tuition and voucher payments don’t cover all of the costs. On average, there is a gap of $5,100 per student. Our record enrollment of 938 this past year contributed to our challenge.

As president, I am not only concerned that we remain faithful to the scriptures and the Lutheran Confessions — I am committed to the financial sustainability of this high school for the next generation.

To be honest, we need your support more than ever to keep offering this Christ-centered education to our students. Have you given a gift recently? Would you consider remembering the high school in your estate plan?

In This Issue

To God the Glory!

Guided by Faith

Where Success Means More

2023 WLHS Graduation Highlights

Meet the Class of 2023

Retirements

2023 Dinner Auction Recap

Alumni Updates

Reunions

Reunion Zero & Update Contact Info

Pages 3

Pages 4-5

Pages 6-7

Page 8

Pages 9-15

Page 16

Page 17

Page 18

Page 19

Page 20

WLHS Foundation & In Loving Memory Page 21

WLHS Prism Concerts

Pages 22-23

2023 Baptisms Back Page

Upcoming Events

For up-to-date information about events during the summer, visit wlhs.org/calendar or download the Wisco app.

2022-23 School Theme

Christ is My Cornerstone (Ephesians 2:19-20)

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 2023

Can you prayerfully consider a gift to help bridge the gap for this coming year?

Can I count on you to help? Pray first. Pray that we may continue to faithfully proclaim Christ in all his majesty to our teens. Then I encourage you to give joyfully so that you can join us with the Psalmist together in saying, “we will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord, his power, and the wonders he has done” (Psalm 78:4).

It simply can’t happen without the support of people like you.

With you in Christ’s service,

Rev. Dr. Kenneth Fisher President of WLHS

To God the Glory! ACT Excellence

Senior Jack Goelz and junior Frank Quan-Pham each earned a perfect 36 on their ACT, which puts them in an elite group of students nationwide. More than a million high schoolers take the ACT annually, and less than one-half of one percent notch the top score.

Goelz secured his 36 in 2022 and Quan-Pham earned his this spring.

College Plans: Thanks to his ACT score, Goelz received a full tuition scholarship to the University of Nebraska—Lincoln where he plans to study actuarial science.

Goelz was also accepted into the Nebraska Business Honors Academy, which takes just 40 students each year. The academy is a four-year, cohort-based, enhanced business curriculum for high-ability students who have the potential and desire to become the next generation of business leaders.

ACT Prep: “I made sure I did all my work in class because that’s what prepared me for the test. Staying mentally active and making sure I was up to date with everything was important.”

WLHS Experience: “I made great friends at Wisco. We have a common ground of Christianity so I know I can trust and confide in them. The teachers care on a deeper level about your success and wellbeing and that makes a difference.”

Quan-Pham is an international student from Vietnam who came to WLHS as a sophomore.

College Plans: Quan-Pham has been fielding interest from top-tier colleges across the country and is currently evaluating his options. He’s considering majors in engineering and data science.

ACT Prep: Quan-Pham credits his English classes at WLHS for helping him achieve a perfect score.

WLHS Experience: “I enjoy all of the activities and opportunities WLHS has to offer. My favorite class, of course, is Concert Band because it has allowed me to realize my musical potential and do what I love.”

Quan-Pham is involved in a plethora of activities, including Viking Steel, jazz and percussion ensembles, Inspiration choir, the Pilot school newspaper, Compass yearbook, Wisco Witnesses in the World, Viking Christian Leaders Academy, tech team, drama productions, Page Turners book club, and the Future Business Leaders of America.

Six WLHS students in six years have achieved perfect ACT scores

Jack Goelz (‘23)

Frank Quan-Pham (‘24)

Guided by Faith

Developing Christian Young Men and Women

At WLHS, Success Means More.

That phrase conveys the fact that our faculty and staff are united in the spiritual and academic development of young adults so they can lead productive, Christ-centered lives in a diverse world.

It also encompasses the fact that our students have more opportunities to root themselves in God’s word. More opportunities to live their faith. More opportunities to establish life-long friendships that have a common foundation. More opportunities to be secure and confident in knowing who they are – a child of God – and what they stand for –The Wisco Way*.

For four years at WLHS, young teens who are still growing in their faith and maturity are surrounded by adult Christian role models who are dedicated to sharing the power of God’s Word to shape their lives.

*The Wisco Way on page six details the 10 Christian characteristics of the student body.

Mr. Micah Hernandez (’01) Spanish Teacher, Cross Country Coach

“Our work is rooted in our love for Jesus so we have a greater purpose at Wisco. It is evident in the colleagues with whom I work and in the students I’m privileged to serve.

Every single day, our students observe the optimism, hope, peace, and love their teachers have in today’s world. They see the way adults in this building handle adversity with devotion and prayer. They see how teachers are Christian mothers and fathers to their children (who just so happen to also be students) and they see their teachers interacting as Christian spouses (there are six couples on staff). Those are really invaluable examples for young people to understand how life should look when we live for Jesus.”

Mrs. Lindsey Knight Science Teacher

“I’m privileged to teach science and, since science is the study of God’s creation, it’s easy to incorporate my faith each and every day. I enjoy connecting the intelligence of our Creator to the great complexities and questions that science presents. God set and keeps everything in motion, and now we get to figure out how it works and how to best care for it.”

Mrs. Lisa (Festerling) Rouse (’02) English Teacher

“At Wisco, students get a front-seat view of Christian adults taking on real life, including the good, the bad, and the ugly. Our students learn the anchoring scriptures that keep us steady through the triumphs and trials of life.”

Mr. Joel Radue Trade and Technology Teacher, Varsity Football Coach

“All of the leadership activities we do in football are based on God’s Word. Every week during the football season, we study a core value that is based on a Bible passage. Each of the players reflects on that passage and how it applies to their lives. Later in the week, after our team devotion, the players share with the team their thoughts on the passage we studied. It’s awesome to see the Holy Spirit working in the hearts of our players.”

Mr. Micah Hernandez (‘01)

Mrs. Lindsey Knight

Mrs. Lisa Rouse (‘02)

Mr. Joel Radue

Mr. Eric Lueck (’87) Social Studies Teacher, Cross Country and Track Coach

“As an athletic coach, I emphasize two big things – use your talents and gifts to serve God and each other. Be a dedicated and hard-working athlete and be a strong and encouraging teammate. God is teaching the boys I coach through sport about the commitment they will need as future husbands, fathers, neighbors, co-workers, etc.”

Whiteside (‘06) Assistant Principal, Boys Varsity Assistant Basketball and Football Coach

“Every issue or problem we have is because of sin. At Wisco, we remind our students they need a Savior and, just as important, that they have a Savior who has made them acceptable to God. It’s a blessing to be able to remind students that we can get through obstacles or challenges not because we’re so awesome, but because Jesus is so awesome and equips us with the Holy Spirit.”

Mrs. Becky (Pate) Huebner (’99) English Teacher, Basketball and Track Coach

“Several times a week, I start my class with a passage of the day. Students write down the passage and their thoughts on it. As a class, we have a discussion about how we can apply the passage and what it means to our life. It is my favorite way to begin our day. I need that focus on God’s promises just as much as my dear students.”

Guided by Faith

Mr. Josh Nelson (’99) Science Teacher, Viking Clay Breakers Coach

“There’s what I intentionally teach in my discipline (chemistry), and then there’s what I teach as the kids watch my example. As teachers, we get to share things about our lives and, when we see students who are going through the pain and trials that are inevitable in life, we get to be there and help them sort it out through Christ. It is a good and useful thing to learn how to apply God’s Word by sitting in a religion class, but it is even more effective when you have the opportunity to use the Bible to help kids through specific struggles in their lives.”

WLHS Facts

• 100% of students take a daily religion class

• A chapel worship service is a school-wide, daily event and is a part of every student’s schedule

• 100% of faculty and staff are WELS members

• 100% of faculty are solemnly installed and promise to “hold steadfastly to the truth of the Word of God” as reveled in the Scriptures and applied in the Lutheran Confessions.

• 100% of the faculty are ministry certified in the WELS or are currently securing their certification

• 65% of the faculty are alumni

Mr. C.L.

Mr. Eric Lueck (‘87)

Mr. C.L. Whiteside (‘06)

Mrs. Becky Huebner (‘99)

Mr. Josh Nelson (‘99)

Where Success Means More Future Leaders in Training

WLHS offers a supportive environment where students are encouraged to explore different career paths and areas of interest. For example, the high school has a variety of classes and co-curricular activities for young men and women to learn and develop business and leadership skills.

Future Business Leaders of America

This school year, WLHS added Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) to its co-curricular offerings. Through academic competitions, leadership development, and educational programs, FBLA helps prepare high school students for careers in business.

Viking Christian Leaders Academy

The Viking Christian Leaders Academy (VCLA) focuses on supporting the WLHS culture by strengthening its student leaders and helping them identify and develop their leadership skills.

VCLA members learn and practice leadership skills through a strength finder assessment, guest speakers, and in-depth discussions about each month’s Wisco Way word. In addition, students conduct monthly homeroom conversations and lead quarterly homeroom devotions.

Entrepreneurship Class

This one-semester class provides sophomores, juniors, and seniors with the knowledge needed to evaluate their potential as future business owners. Students examine critical entrepreneurship building blocks and meet local business owners who share their real-world experiences.

This spring in its inaugural year, WLHS sent five students to the FBLA State competition and three went on to qualify for Nationals

Entrepreneurship students visited a local Planet Smoothie shop and then developed marketing plans for the business’ owner, Sherri Luckett

Where Success Means More

Chick-fil-A Leader Academy

Chick-fil-A Leader Academy is a student leader development organization sponsored by local Chick-fil-A store owner/operator Jim Fraisier.

The academy features video-based lessons that focus on:

• Vision and Values

• Servant Leadership

• Teamwork

• Innovation

• Communication

• Impact

In addition, students execute three service initiatives during the school year:

Big Thank You – Each student identifies someone who has had a special impact on their life and takes time to thank them verbally and in writing.

Do Good December – Students work together to help an organization in the community.

Community Impact – This March, the Chick-fil-A members organized a multi-day volunteer initiative at The Village at Manor Park in West Allis. The group recruited 40 WLHS students to play games and visit with elderly residents.

“I love doing volunteer work and Wisco has a lot of great opportunities to give back,” says Oliva Hermanson (’24), Peace Lutheran Academy, Sussex.

“I was on the committee for promoting our community impact activity at The Village at Manor Park and learned how important it is to communicate effectively and efficiently to get people excited and onboard with what

Lauretta Plautz Fund and ViTech Fund

Since 1974, WHLS seniors have been researching, monitoring, and buying stocks as part of the Lauretta Plautz Fund. In addition, in 2013, thanks to an anonymous donor, the ViTech Fund was established to provide another hands-on learning opportunity.

Under the guidance of Mr. Rick Eastman and Mr. Eric Ruh, students learn about the stock market and decide how to allocate approximately $15,000 in yearly dividend earnings for faculty grant requests.

After conducting a company analysis and hearing a presentation by GE Healthcare executives, the Plautz/Vitech group purchased 50 shares of GE Healthcare stock

Plautz/Vitech students meet to discuss where funds are allocated, and for the 2022-23 school year, eight faculty projects were funded

you’re doing.”

Oliva Hermanson (‘24)

“Plautz/ViTech students not only learn the skills to analyze, buy, and sell technology stocks, they also grow in discerning how to be good stewards.”

— Mr. Eric Ruh, Lauretta Plautz and ViTech Fund advisor

2023 WLHS Graduation Highlights

On May 27, 218 young men and women graduated from Wisconsin Lutheran High School.

The Class of 2023 Academic Top 10

1. Silas Ebeling

Wisconsin Lutheran College

2. Jacob Alejandro

University of Wisconsin - Madison

3. Allison Bauer

Milwaukee School of Engineering

4. Zhongtian (Alex) Wang

University of Toronto

5. Kyle Leverence

Milwaukee School of Engineering

6. Jinyeong Kim

University of California

7. Abigail Prosser

Colorado Christian University

8. Wenli (Tiffany) Chen

Carnegie Mellon University

9. Jack Goelz

More 2023 graduation photos can be viewed at wlhs.org/photos

University of Nebraska - Lincoln

10. Hannah Trotter

University of Alaska - Anchorage

Valedictorian Silas Ebeling (pictured left) and salutatorian Jacob Alejandro (pictured right) with Principal Phil Leyrer

Class Hymn: In Christ Alone (CW 510)

Meet the Class of 2023

Logan Abramowski

Jacob Alejandro

Maia Alfred

Jamiir Allen

Destiny Anglin

Vinicius Araujo

Ella Archer

Laura Bailey

Allison Bauer

Jayden Bauer

Grace Becker

Leah Bennett

Ava Biesterfeld

Austin Bluemel

Thomas Brisolara

Henry Brockman

Micah Buske

Amelia Butler

Adrianna Calvert

Chloe Campbell

Cianna Campbell

Iyanna Cannaday

Tien (Tina) Cao

Sophie Carlson

Rubielis Casiano-Muniz

Sehaj Chand

Wenli (Tiffany) Chen

Zimo (Tony) Chen

Juliet Chin

Khenadi Clay

Quincy Cole

Bang (Lilly) Dang

Dakyis Davis

Zennie Davis

Ernani De Castro

Gamborgi Neto

Sylvia Delwiche

Class Colors: Light Blue and White

Class Flower: White rose

Owen Derkowski

Paige Dietze

Liam Dobratz

Lyle Dolphin

Nikolas Draganchuk

Silas Ebeling

Aaron Economy

William Eft

Ethan Enslen

Jaylen Evans

Oluwatoyin (Daniel) Fasasi

Carlos Lopez

Lydia Festerling

Xavier Foreman

McKenna Friske

Tabitha Fromm

Isabelle Gallegos-Asik

Katiana Goba

Ella Goede

Jack Goelz

Regan Gospodarek

Noel Greene

Grace Grochan

Noah Gruetzmacher

Ethan Haag

Matthew Hackmann

Tyler Haglund

John Handeland

Lydia Harrington

Danae Harris

Kayla Hartman

Natalie Hatzung

Hannah Heiman

Coen Henn

Laisa Hernandez-Chaidez

Malik Hill

Damarion Hill-Stanton

Malia Hinton

Timothy Hipp

Trevor Hoffman

Jeremy Hogan

JaNiya Horton

Will Hotchkiss

Desiree Howard

Cayden Hubmann

Gabriella Iglesias

Jordan Jackson

Rayna Jaeger

Kennedy Jamerson

Chelsea Jenkins

Ellie Johnson

Gene Johnson

Isaiah Johnston

Natalie Jones

Shavares Jones

Shavaria Jones

Timya Jones

Jaewon (Justin) Jung

Clara Kammholz

Jadon Kerkow

Landon Key

Jinyeong Kim

Chloe Klopf

Hannah Klopf

Laura Klotz

Josh Knueppel

Marianna Koeller

Claudia Kroenke

Norah Kruschel

Joshua Kwiatkowski

William Lambrecht

Anastasia Landowski

Min Larsen

Annika Laufer

Felicity Lebish

Josephine Lenga

Layla Lenz

Eli Lepke

April Letherwood

Kyle Leverence

Wenyuan (Lucy) Li

XingZhi (Samuel) Li

Joseph Lindenberg

Liliana Lopez

WHERE SUCCESS MEANS MORE 11

Madysen Lueck

Ta’Cori Luster

Peyris Macisak

Victor Margulius

Nicole Mattson

Mara Matus

Mason Mazziotti

Elaina McAdams

Sylvester McCloud

Kaylie McEvoy

Joseph Merrill

Kathleen Meyer

Grace Miller

Jonah Miller

Danilo Miric

Marissa Moilanen

Lindsey Mondragon

Annabella Montenegro

Jeffrey Montgomery

Nashaly Mora-Alejandro

Ethan Muma

Zachary Nath

McHenry Nchekwaram

Amber Newell

An (Jack) Nguyen

Aida Niakani

Agamefechukwu

(John) Njoku

Rayion Nolden

Noah Oertel

Amelia Olscheske

Lauren Olson

Sean Ossmann

Casey Ott

Nadia Papp-Baka

Maria Perez-Medina

Hung (Nick) Pham

“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is — his good, pleasing and perfect will” (Romans 12:2).

— 2023 Senior Class Verse

Jonah Poston

Abigail Prosser

Jaxon Raabe

Eden Rader

Olivia Ramirez

Deon Reid

Nabia Reid

Shelby Reneau

Allyson Rhyner

Riley Rindfleisch

Yoesmarie Rivera

Kamaria Roberson

Luke Rodgers

Timothy Roehl-Clincy

Thalia Salton

Dante Sanders

Annelise Schultz

Savanna Sievert

Abhav Singh

Chelsey Solis Maldonado

Isabelle Steidl

Jalajah Steward

Samara Stewart

Sydney Stewart

Avyiana Story

Natalie Strand

Nora Stroh

Alaina Subotnik

Weston Sundholm

James Sutter

Mihynez Taylor

Jabez Temsakun

Hieu (Huey) Than Zachary Tipton

Gabriel Tonade

Melanie Tonn

Mariam Toure

An (Rice) Tran

Hannah Trotter

David Uk

Van Uk

Nursat Ushkempirov

Ryan Vaccarella

Timothy Valerio

Jonnia Vaughns

Conner Vierck

Khang (Jimmy) Vo

Shawn Vogel

Kevin Wang

Zhongtian (Alex) Wang

Nicholas Wanty

Camron Weis

Nickolas Wendl

Thomas Westendorf

Julian Westmoreland

Blake Wetzel

Gabrielle Williams

Elijah Wischki

Aniyyah Young

Prentice Young

Ryleigh Zeller

2023 WLHS Graduation Memories

Principal Phil Leyrer Stays for 2023-24 School Year

WLHS is blessed to have Principal Leyrer continue in his role for the upcoming school year.

Leyrer had previously accepted a call to the position of Assistant to the District President, Southeastern Wisconsin District WELS. However, WLHS extended five calls, and all were returned. Staying for another year gives the WLHS board time to consider candidates and extend a call this fall.

“The role of a Lutheran high school principal at WLHS is extremely complex and multi-faceted.

I am personally grateful that Phil was willing to continue to faithfully serve in this critical role for one more year so that we can begin calling again in October when the season begins,” says Rev. Dr. Ken Fisher, president of WLHS.

Since his arrival in 2015, Leyrer has propelled WLHS through significant academic and instructional advances and has helped guide the growth of the student body as it has increased by nearly 200 students.

“We trust God’s leading and know that his plan for the ministry of our District and high school is always good,” says Fisher.

Three Faithful Servants Retire

Mr. Bill Plamann 33 years at WLHS

Wrestling Focus: One in Christ

has been with the WLHS wrestling program for 29 years, 2018 marked his first year as head coach.

Going into the season, he wanted to make a statement to the team.

Wisco,” he was known for his warm smile, corny jokes, and the creative, hands-on projects he brought into grade school classrooms.

To schedule a parent and student visit to WLHS, contact Mr. Brad Wetzel, director of admissions, 414-453-4567 ext. 1322 or brad.wetzel@wlhs.org.

In addition to his enrollment work, for the past three years, he taught woodworking and launched the school’s first-ever Canoe Club. Prior to that, he taught theology and social studies and coached basketball.

“We always talk about being a great team and a family but really wanted the boys to own that this year,” says Coach Plamann. “I wanted to set them up for success and then let them take it from there.”

Since the team’s wrestling mats were 22 years old, he focused on getting new ones.

“It was important for them to know that was going to put in everything could to develop them as wrestlers and expected the same from them,” says Plamann. “The new mats were significant since we were able to wrestle live on them throughout the season.”

Mr. Bill Plamann has served in the ministry for 44 years and has been with WLHS since 1990. Over the years, Plamann taught physical science and theology classes and many students remember his Religion and Science course.

Through an outpouring of gifts from alumni and those who love the sport, he was able to collect the $24,000 needed to purchase two new mats.

Then he turned customization of the mats over to the boys. The team came together and selected two mottos – One in Christ and OTF, an acronym for Only the Family.

“Wrestling is a brotherhood and the two mottos are about that,” says senior Jason Bonow (’19), Trinity Lutheran Grade School, Waukesha. “We come together for Christ. We’re representing him on the mat and we’re always supporting and cheering for each other like family.”

Bonow advanced through regionals and sectionals to qualify for State but lost to a wrestler who ended up taking third place. Bonow plans to attend Waukesha County Technical College to pursue business.

Plamann also dedicated years to coaching football and wrestling. He was the long-time offensive line coach for the highly successful football program that won several State titles and the JV and varsity assistant wrestling coach. In 2018, he took over as wrestling head coach and in 2021 was honored by the Wisconsin Wrestling Coaches Association for 30 years of coaching.

Plamann and his wife Karen have two children who both graduated from WLHS — Melissa (‘99) and Lee (‘05).

Mr.

25 years at WLHS

Mr. Mark Ricke has served in the ministry for 44 years and has been with WLHS since 1998. Most recently, he was director of enrollment, working to introduce Wisco to grade students and their parents. As the “face of

members

Ricke and his wife Lisa (Jeske, ’79) have four children who all graduated from WLHS — Micah (’06), Hannah (’08), Josiah (’12), and Noah (’19).

29 years at WLHS

Mr. Mark Leverence has served in the ministry for 29 years in part-time and full-time roles. At WLHS, he taught world geography, U.S. history, and American government. Prior to teaching, Leverence worked at GE Health Care and United Parcel Service.

Leverence and his wife Beth have four children who all graduated from WLHS —Aaron (‘02), Heather (‘05) Kathryn (‘09) and Kyle (‘23)

Mark Ricke

Mr. Mark Leverence

Mr. Bill Plaman

Mr. Mark Ricke

Mr. Mark Leverence

Mr. Mark Ricke (pictured third from left) with

of the WLHS Canoe Club on the Wisconsin River.

While Mr. Bill Plamann

The WLHS wrestling team has always considered itself a family in Christ. A testament to that tight bond is the fact that alumni – young and old, near and far – continue to support the program.

Theology teacher & wrestling coach Mr. Bill Plamann is committed to weaving Christ’s love into his classes and co-curriculars. In 2018, Coach Plamann secured new wrestling mats with “One in Christ” printed on them to unite the team around their ultimate goal.

The Leverence family has a seven decade legacy of teachers at the high school. Mr. Mark Leverence taught his students with a sincere and loyal Christ-like heart.

Dinner Auction Raises Record Amount!

God blessed the 2023 WLHS Dinner Auction with generous donors and bidders who raised nearly $800,000 to fund tuition assistance and support the school’s mission to prepare young adults for productive, Christcentered lives in a diverse world.

This annual event was hosted by the trio of Meyer siblings — Kristin (Meyer) Paschke (’98), Mike Meyer (’00), and Kelly (Meyer) Martinez (’00) — who will be sending their children (a combined total of nine between the three families) to WLHS. The oldest child was a WLHS freshman this year and the last Viking is expected to graduate in 2040.

Save the date for next year’s auction on April 13, 2024.

Viking Steel played before dinner

2023 Auction hosts Kelly, Mike, and Kristin (pictured left to right)

Alumni Updates

Gary (‘68) and Candace “Candee” (Tresemer) Stawicki (‘68) celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in June. In attendance were the bride’s brother, Thomas (‘74) and his wife, Bernice (Cuciz) Tresemer (‘74), and the bride’s cousin, Lynn (Kraemer) Georgson (‘70), and her husband, LaVern (‘70). Candee and Gary are blessed with two daughters and two grandsons.

Angie (Brewer) Grass (‘98) and her husband, Brad, own Straight Line Auto Upholstery, a full-service upholstery company for auto, truck, boat, motorcycle and RV repairs, plus custom and restoration interiors, located in Waukesha county. The Grass family have two daughters that are third generation to attend WLHS, Samantha (‘21) and Madison (‘24).

Christopher (‘03) and Amanda (Gray) Groth (‘03) both graduated with honors from the University of WisconsinMilwaukee on May 21. Amanda received a Bachelor of Arts in Community Engagement and Education and Christopher received a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Science and Healthcare Administration. The Groths work in the healthcare field.

Krysti (Frawley) Lloyd (‘03) is the Director of Donor Events & Executive Relations at the Institute for Humane Studies at George Mason University. She and her husband, Kevin, recently celebrated their 10th wedding anniversary. They have three girls: Brooklynn (7), Kendall (4), and Harper (3). The Lloyd family resides in Ashburn, Va.

Lesleigh (Gilles) Memmel (‘03) and her husband, Tony, welcomed their second child, Isaac, on December 12. Isaac joins big brother, Theo (4). After working for 10 years as a Neuro ICU nurse, Lesleigh “retired” to stay home with their boys. The Memmel’s have an international music ministry together, and have been to 47 states and 23 countries collectively, speaking in schools, churches, and other community venues. They reside in Nashville and celebrated their 14th wedding anniversary on January 3.

Jessie (Ross) Bernau (‘09) married husband, Taylor, on March 3. The couple resides in Greenfield, Wis. and are proud parents to two pup babies, B and Leo.

Leah Gawel, M.M. (‘15) received a full ride scholarship to Harvard Divinity School and will start the Master of Divinity Program in the Fall of 2023.

Joseph (‘16) and Anne (Reinhardt) Eick (‘16) welcomed baby Christian Daniel Eick on June 19. The new family of three resides in Waukesha, Wis.

Kyle Ristow (‘19) received the Keller Williams Realty Rising Star Award for 2022, which was voted on by his office of almost 200 agents. He also was accepted into Forward 48, the region’s premier leadership development program that only accepts 48 trainees per year across Wisconsin.

Upcoming LHS & WLHS Reunions

n Class of 1955 – The Class of 1955 is hosting a 68-year reunion on Friday, September 15, at 11:00 a.m. at Alioto’s Restaurant in Wauwatosa.

n Class of 1968 – The Class of 1968 will be having their 55-year reunion on Saturday, September 16, at 5:30 p.m. at Alioto’s Restaurant in Wauwatosa with an optional WLHS tour from 4:00-5:00 p.m.

n Class of 1973 – The Class of 1973 is planning their 50-year reunion on Saturday, October 14, from 5:00-9:00 p.m. at Wisconsin Lutheran High School.

n Class of 1978 – The Class of 1978 will celebrate your 45-year reunion on Saturday, September 23, at 5:00 p.m. at Village Bowl in Menomonee Falls.

n Class of 1982 – The Class of 1982 will hold their 41-year reunion on Sunday, July 16, at 2:30 p.m. at Reunion Restaurant in West Allis.

n Class of 1983 – The Class of 1983 will celebrate their 40-year reunion on Friday, August 18, at 7:00 p.m. at Best Place at the Historic Pabst Brewery in Milwaukee.

n Class of 1988 – The Class of 1988 will hold their 35-year reunion on Saturday, October 14, at 6:00 p.m. at Reunion Restaurant in West Allis.

n Class of 1993 – A 30-year reunion for the Class of 1993 will be held on Saturday, October 14, in the evening at St. Kate’s Hotel in Milwaukee.

n Class of 1998 – Plans are in the works for your 25-year reunion! More information to come.

n Class of 2003 – The Class of 2003 will hold their 20-year reunion on Saturday, September 23, from 12:00-4:00 p.m. at Reunion Restaurant in West Allis.

n Class of 2008 – The Class of 2008 will celebrate their 15-year reunion on Friday, August 11, from 6:00-9:00 p.m. at Leff’s Lucky Town in Wauwatosa

n Class of 2018 – The Wisco Alumni Team is excited to host the Class of 2013 5-year reunion at the WLHS Homecoming game on Friday, September 22. Stay tuned for more information.

On June 10, members of the 1998 and 1973 Girls Track & Field teams gathered to celebrate the 25- and 50-year anniversaries of their State Championships. Former coaches and track alumni had the opportunity to reconnect and reminisce over brunch on the brand new Legacy Terrace at Zeitler Stadium. They also got to take a tour of the new stadium and track, led by former athletic director Jeff Sitz (‘74) and former track coach Kurt Seeger. The 1973 track team was the first team to bring home a state championship at WLHS!

For up-to-date information about all reunions, visit wlhs.org/reunions.

Reunion Zero

Reunion Zero is a newer tradition at Wisco. During the last week of school, seniors are invited to a special lunch sponsored by the Wisco Alumni Team. At the event, seniors have the chance to socialize with classmates, faculty, and staff. It’s a great way for seniors to connect with their alma mater before they head out to college, military, or into a career. We wish the graduating Class of 2023 God’s richest blessings on their future!

WLHS is excited to keep in touch with our alumni. Share your life updates or contact information and automatically receive an exclusive WLHS Viking alumni magnet.

Updates MUST be sent in by Friday, July 15 to receive your FREE Viking magnetic.

In Loving Memory

Class of 1941

Ruth (Strasen) Franz

September 24, 2022

Estate and Will Planning

“For you yourselves are fully aware that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night” (1 Thessalonians 5:2).

Although Paul may have been speaking to the church in Thessalonica in 50-51 AD, and he may have been speaking about Jesus’ second coming, there is great wisdom in the above passage. That passage contains facts that we can apply to our lives today. While there are few guarantees in life, one thing is certain, we will all leave this earth when the good Lord decides. We KNOW that Jesus will come again to take us all home, but for many of us, our time may be before Judgment Day.

As Christians we know and understand what God says about being great stewards of our blessings while we are here on Earth . . . but what about when we are no longer walking in this life? God tell us in Matthew 6 to “store up our treasures in heaven,” not in this life, but many will have some treasures left when we are taken home.

A recent survey by LegalZoom states that only 33% of adults have created the proper estate planning documents. What does this mean? Many people will be leaving their final decisions up to the government. That’s right — if you don’t have your own plan, the government has one for you.

For this reason, the Wisconsin Lutheran High School Foundation has partnered with SFC Estate Coaching. Through this partnership we are offering a free service for families, alumni, and friends of WLHS to prepare the majority of the documents necessary to complete an end of life strategy.

August is Estate and Will Planning month. If you haven’t started your plan yet, let us help. Visit wlhs.org/ foundation for more information.

Class of 1947

Jeanette (Taron) Janz

April 1, 2023

Norma (Voges) Schneider

May 27, 2023

Class of 1948

Dorothy (Schallhorn) Hahn

May 29, 2023

Class of 1951

Marlene (Sauer) Behnke

March 17, 2023

Class of 1952

Patricia (Pfeiffer) Loth

February 18, 2023

Joyce (Valerio) Krueger

February 27, 2023

Class of 1954

Donald Schrank

April 29, 2023

Melvin Bohlmann

May 9, 2023

Ruth (Wyse) Kleppek

January 5, 2023

Class of 1957

Donald Beimborn

November 15, 2022

Class of 1959

Jacquelyn (Braun) Rosewicz

February 26, 2023

James Mortl

May 19, 2023

Class of 1962

Dennis Poppe

March 3, 2023

Class of 1966

Gerald Unruh

April 30, 2022

Class of 1967

Steven Peck

April 14, 2023

Class of 1969

Liza (Waldschmidt) Dunn

April 19, 2023

Class of 1970

Rita (Fredrickson) Walters

February 16, 2023

Erwin Luckmann

February 17, 2023

Class of 1972

Linda (Ast) Cottreau

March 1, 2023

Class of 1974

Steven May

March 10, 2023

Class of 1979

David Schneider

March 8, 2023

“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).

Mr. Eric Ruh is the Director of Planned Giving at WLHS

2023 WLHS Spring Musical

It was the very first time WLHS performed the musical Big Fish - School Edition. The show overflowed with heart, humor, and spectacular stagecraft produced by 82 talented students including performers, chorus, crew, and orchestra members. Thanks to directors and supportive parents for an outstanding run.

WLHS is owned and operated by the following congregations joined together as the WLHS Conference

Abiding Word

Atonement

Centennial

Christ, Big Bend

Christ, Milwaukee

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

The choirs and bands of Wisco delighted sold-out crowds with pop and Broadway hits for the 2023 Prism concerts. Performances included steelpan, several vocal solos and duets, a Wizard of Oz medley, and Satchmo and Queen tributes. Thank you to students, fine arts department and tech staff, and the many volunteers who poured hours of work into these inspiring performances.

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 and friends 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), and Eric Ruh; Photography: Chuck Cairns, Tony Just Photography, and IN-FOCUS Photography. 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 MEANS MORE

WHERE SUCCESS MEANS MORE

330 North Glenview Avenue Milwaukee WI 53213-3379

2023 Baptis mal Blessings

Among WLHS’ defining characteristics is that we are a Great Commission School. On May 4, thirteen students received the changing water and word sacrament in a daily chapel service. Another four received baptism in private ceremonies. We rejoice with these students. Praise God for his gift of this sacrament and for leading them to it.