2019 Spring Contact

CONTACT WLHS

SPRING 2019 | ALUMNI & FRIENDS MAGAZINE

NEW RESIDENCE HALL

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will accommodate up to STUDENTS

“Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.”

Proverbs 15:22

GUIDED BY FAITH. DRIVEN BY EXCELLENCE.

Welcome

A Message from Pastor Kenneth Fisher President of the WLHS Conference GRATEFUL TO GOD FOR SUPPORT As president of Wisconsin Lutheran High School, I am privileged to see God’s grace in action every day.

I am continually delighted and excited by the generous gifts from people like you that enable this school to thrive.

In the past year, I’ve witnessed: • a family give a transformational gift of $1 million for vital campus improvements and construction of a new dorm adjacent to our campus; • a group of generous supporters step forward to invest $2.25 million to help us build our new dorm (they also secured the entire debt of the project for the school); • parents of international students in China, Vietnam, and Korea give more than $31,000 for dormitory furnishings; • an international student become a Wisco Champion (our monthly giving society)—the first graduate from our international program to do so; and • more than 500 first-time donors give gifts in the past fiscal year totaling nearly $150,000.

Why does this excite me? These gifts make a powerful statement about what people truly value in their lives. The gifts we return to our Lord give evidence of a proper perspective on material possessions. In thanksgiving, we return to our Lord regular, joyful, and generous gifts in confident trust.

Building a proper perspective about the material world is why success means more at WLHS. While the faculty and staff do everything possible to support and encourage students to reach their God-given potential on earth, we ultimately want to reunite with them in heaven. That’s why our faculty is most concerned about teaching God’s truth and reflecting Christ’s love to students as we seek to prepare them for productive, Christ-centered lives.

What could be more important for us to invest in? As Jesus said, “What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul?” (Mark 8:36) Would you like to help support student success at WLHS? I invite you to give generously to this ministry. Your support is vital to fulfilling our mission.

In amazement of God’s grace,

Rev. Dr. Kenneth Fisher President of WLHS 2

WISCONSIN LUTHERAN HIGH SCHOOL || Spring 2019

In This Issue

Driven by Excellence Guided by Faith International Program Sets Enrollment Record Fine Arts Success WLHS Adds to Campus School News In Loving Memory Grapevine/Reunions Festival 2019/WLHS in Pictures WLHS Dinner Auction

Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Pages 6-7 Pages 8-9 Page 10 Page 11 Pages 12-13 Pages 14-15 Back cover

Upcoming Events

WELS National Band Fest Concert Spring Band Concert WLHS Dinner Auction Spring Sacred Concert Prom Senior Art Show Prism Concerts Graduation

March 17 March 21 April 6 April 13 May 4 May 15 May 17-19 May 25

View additional events and get more information at www.wlhs.org.

For Christ’s Love Compels Us . . .

2 Corinthians 5:14

Our Mission

Compelled by Christ’s love, guided by the Great Commission, and rooted in God’s Word . . .

Wisconsin Lutheran High School prepares young adults

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:

New Residence Honey Creek Hall

Meet Our Academic Dean

Driven by Excellence

“I’m excited to be at WLHS. The moment I stepped on campus I observed a tremendously positive and supportive culture. You can see the strong relationships and bonds teachers and students have,” says Brandt. “That type of learning environment is vital to advancing academic excellence.”

Brandt already has his plate full and is currently helping to implement our three-pronged academic vision set down by our Academic Council: • Student-centered instruction that engages teens in the identification, discussion, and analysis of information • An instructional coaching and feedback model that’s focused on continuous improvement • Data-driven decision-making to inform instructional priorities

In November, WLHS welcomed Mr. Jim Brandt, the school’s first academic dean.

Brandt is uniquely qualified for the position since he has 30 years of experience in education and a broad perspective that ranges from grade school and high school to college and graduate studies programs in California, Illinois, and Wisconsin.

In fact, in 2010, Brandt led the development of the curriculum for the Master of Arts in Education degree program at Wisconsin Lutheran College, and has taught courses in Leadership and Entrepreneurship for the past eight years.

“Jim is a true professional and a master educator. He not only prioritizes a Christcentered education to prepare our teens for eternity, he’s also committed to positively influencing student achievement through high-quality instructional and assessment practices. Given his vast experience and past successes, WLHS is blessed to have an educator of his caliber focused on impacting young peoples’ education and lives.”

—Ryan Oertel (’93), WLHS board member, parent of two WLHS students and vice president of student life at Wisconsin Lutheran College

“Each and every student has his or her own goals so we want to make sure we’re preparing everyone for success.”

“We’re asking ourselves questions like: How many of our students are being accepted into their firstchoice college? Are our students earning ACT and SAT scores that help them secure scholarship dollars?

Are our students who plan to pursue a career ready for their next step?,” says Brandt. “Those are all important questions that are part of my focus.”

Get to Know Academic Dean Jim Brandt Birthplace: Watertown, South Dakota Education: Master’s degree in Education Leadership from the University of Wisconsin—Oshkosh; Bachelor’s in Education from Martin Luther College Family: Married to Kathy, a kindergarten teacher at Pilgrim Lutheran Grade School in Menomonee Falls, and three adult sons Favorite Bible Verse: Romans 8:38-39 Travel: This spring, Jim and his wife will visit their oldest son who’s working with Kingdom Workers in Japan Currently Reading: Educational Entrepreneurship Today and The New Art and Science of Teaching

Guided by Faith

WLHS Grad Leading Lighthouse Youth Center, Garden Homes Campus When Mr. Chuqee Fletcher (’08) transferred to WLHS as a junior, he didn’t realize what an impact the move would have on his life. Shortly after he arrived, he took a survey regarding his interest in the ministry.

“I had actually thought about being a pastor,” says Fletcher. “After I expressed that, Mr. Bowe and Mr. Mark Ricke reached out to me, shared the potential they saw in me and continually encouraged me. Over the course of two years, their support was instrumental in my decision.”

Fletcher also took two trips to explore Martin Luther College (MLC) and conducted chapel three times at WLHS. “Leading my classmates in God’s Word was an amazing opportunity,” says Fletcher. “It was like a test run that helped make my decision to go to MLC.” Fletcher graduated from MLC and was at Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary when he began working at the Garden Homes campus of Lighthouse Youth Center, a location he was familiar with since he had attended Garden Homes Lutheran Grade School.

“Throughout my life, I’ve dreamed of being a role model for young black men and women,” says Fletcher. “I’ve always wanted to help my neighborhood, my city, and those around me. It was beautiful when I realized I could accomplish that at Lighthouse.”

Two years after being promoted to site director of the Garden Homes campus, Fletcher earned his master’s in Educational Leadership & Innovation from Wisconsin Lutheran College.

“Every day I have the wonderful privilege of working with the youth of Milwaukee and sharing God’s Word with them,” says Fletcher. “It’s truly a blessing.”

Lighthouse Youth Center

Mr. Chuqee Fletcher ('08) with his wife, Erika, daughter Cali (age 4) and son Carter (3).

“Growing up, I got to attend a lot of different programs and camps – the Boys & Girls Club, YMCA, and Marquette summer camp. Each of those left an impression on me. Lighthouse is similar to what I experienced when I was a child.

I know we are a vessel for God’s Word and ministry with the children we serve,” —Mr. Chuqee Fletcher (’08), site director of Lighthouse Youth Center, Garden Homes Campus

Mission: To be a beacon for Christ to the youth of the community Services: Each weekday, Lighthouse gives youth ages 10 – 18 a safe and supportive gathering place after

school. Lighthouse provides homework assistance, recreational activities, and leads a daily devotion to introduce youth to the truths of Scripture. It also links impressionable teens with adult Christian mentors, and has programs focused on life skills and career readiness

2 Locations: Garden Homes Campus, Havenwoods Campus Impact: Since its founding in 2007, Lighthouse Youth Center has had more than 100,000 youth visits

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WISCONSIN LUTHERAN HIGH SCHOOL || Spring 2019

International Program Sets Enrollment Record Graduates Thrive in College

It’s been a dozen years since WLHS first established its International Program with one student.

Since those early days, enrollment has grown to 46 for the 2018-19 school year with students from seven countries – Brazil, China, Ecuador, Malta, South Korea, Uganda, and Vietnam.

“The international students add to the richness of our campus,” says Eric Duwe, director of the International Program. “Our domestic students benefit from learning side by side with teens from other parts of the world who bring different experiences and perspectives into the classroom. They’re building friendships and establishing potential business contacts they can connect with in the future.”

The increased enrollment in the program is due in part to the work of two full-time staff members, Mr. Eric Duwe

Meet Zihan (Yoyo) Yin (’18) Hometown: Beijing, China

and Mrs. Tamara Leyrer, who joined WLHS in 2017. The duo has elevated the school’s strategic recruitment efforts, worked to establish stronger relationships with partners abroad, and conducted more one-on-one school and family visits in target countries.

“Bringing international students to WLHS, surrounding them with Christian role models and sharing God’s Word and unconditional love with them is part of our Great Commission work,” says Duwe.

In fact, each school year, WLHS welcomes a number of international students into God’s kingdom through baptism.

“We hear time and again how our newly baptized international students are sharing and living their faith on college campuses across the country,” adds Duwe.

forensics team. Through forensics, she was able to improve her English and became comfortable speaking in front of an audience.

Madison Moments: Yin’s forensics work at WLHS

paid off her first semester at Madison. Out of 800 students taking a required Communications A class, Yin was one of 18 semi-finalists in a speech contest.

WLHS Difference: My life is more colorful because of

all the clubs and activities I got involved with at Wisco.

I also liked the Christian environment and felt a lot of love at the school. The teachers were very patient and caring. They would make time after class so I could ask them questions. I still keep in touch with Mr. Tatge and others at Wisco.

Baptized into God’s Kingdom: Yin was at WLHS

College: University of Wisconsin—Madison Major: International Studies, considering adding an Economics major

WLHS Activities: Yin transferred to WLHS her senior year after attending West Allis Central High School.

She immediately got involved in student life by becoming a photographer for Pilot, the student newspaper. She also played golf and joined the

just one year but the Holy Spirit worked in her heart and she came to faith during that time. On May 25, 2018, the last day of school, Yin was baptized by Campus Pastor Phil Huebner (’99). At UW-Madison, Yin has been actively involved in student ministry through Wisconsin Lutheran Chapel.

A Wisco Champion: Last fall, Yin became a Wisco Champion by signing up for the monthly giving program. She said, “As a college student, supporting WLHS can be as easy as buying one less cup of coffee or eating one less time out every month. I am glad to have this opportunity to give back to my high school.

I want to start early with little steps and accumulate a big difference.”

GUIDED BY FAITH. DRIVEN BY EXCELLENCE.

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Fine Arts Success

Meet our WLHS graduates who are thriving in their artistic careers.

Adrian Smith (’98)

Emily Fons (‘01)

Department Chair of Music, Professor of Music College Choir Conductor Martin Luther College (MLC)

American Mezzo Soprano Recognized by Opera News as a rising star and one of the best singing actresses of her generation.

My Career: I’ve been a professor of music at MLC for Adrian Smith six years and have had the privilege of leading the MLC College Choir for the past two years. It’s still hard for me to believe I’m directing the choir that I sang in as a student. It’s amazing when you look back and see how the Lord guides you. I love getting up every day and teaching future pastors, teachers, and staff ministers how they can use music in their ministry to touch people’s hearts and minds. I get to share with them my passion for music. It’s truly a blessing to do this full time.

WLHS Experience: I was involved in pretty much everything related to music and the performing arts – Wisco Kids, Inspiration, various choirs and the musicals. In particular, I remember being very proud of the top-notch work our Wisco Kids group accomplished and that was because Mr. Ned Goede didn’t let up. He was always encouraging and pushing us to be our best. I thrived under his driven leadership, his immediate feedback, and the care he showed for each of us.

Favorite Teachers: God put special Wisco teachers in my life to guide me and point out the skills I had for full-time ministry. My high school teachers were role models for my teaching today. I remember the warm welcome Mrs. Jackie Bauer gave to us each morning as we waited for class to begin in the Music Hall, the excitement Mr. David Kren and Mrs. Marcie Kren shared with us in our science classes, the connections Mrs. Beverly Braun helped us make in Literature, the passion for music Mr. Ned Goede demonstrated in A Cappella Choir. Those are just a few examples of the many teachers at Wisco I recall demonstrating not only what it meant to be an excellent educator, but more importantly how to be a Christian servant.

Impactful Moment: Directing the choir in “Expression of Gratitude” during our graduation service was truly something special.

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WISCONSIN LUTHERAN HIGH SCHOOL || Spring 2019

My Career: My path into Emily Fons music wasn’t straight. It took a lot of twists and turns along the way. But, at some point, I realized I do really well working hard on my own.

Opera is perfect for that because you lock yourself in a room for hours on end to study and learn a piece. At the same time, it’s also a very social job that’s multidisciplinary. It requires you to apply music theory, foreign language, stage craft and storytelling all at once, which is something that agrees with me.

WLHS Experience: My best high school memories are of my friends and the extra-curricular stuff we did together. I always put academics first and worked hard to do well but what brought me the most joy was socializing. I was involved in a lot of different activities because, honestly, it meant more time with my friends. In fact, a lot of my high school friendships are still intact to this day. Of all the things I did, the plays and musicals were the most important to me because performing and entertaining are really the core of who I am.

Creative Outlet: Drawing and painting with Mr. Bintz was a jewel in my day. I longed for his class because it had a great creative vibe and an unstructured nature that I loved. It really was an escape for me. Plus, I was with interesting kids who had different thoughts and ideas that challenged me. The ability to express myself artistically was so important to me.

Christopher Gilbert (‘08)

Dr. Melissa Plamann (’99)

Attended WLHS for three years and considers the school his alma mater

Associate Professor of Music, Wanda L. Bass Chair of Organ, Chapel Choir Director, Graduate Coordinator, Oklahoma City University

Choreographer, dancer, actor, musician Christopher Gilbert

My Career: I’ve done a lot of different things but I’m probably best known for playing Muno on the television show “Yo Gabba Gabba” for two years. Eventually, I moved from Los Angeles back to Milwaukee and currently lead the Grand Dancers for the Milwaukee Bucks, a dance team of adults 55 and up. I also teach hip-hop dance classes at DAYNC Studio two nights a week. This past December, I was hired to choreograph the “Black Nativity” by Langston Hughes at the Marcus Center for the Performing Arts. But, my biggest accomplishment is visiting local schools to encourage kids to express themselves through dance and be confident in who they are.

WLHS Experience: Life changing is how I would describe my time at Wisco. Freshman year I was very unsure of myself. I lacked confidence and kept to myself. I had always danced but in middle school they made fun of me for that. At Wisco, it was different. The student body embraced my dancing and my confidence grew. The other thing about Wisco is the fact that it was my first exposure to a predominantly white population. It was good because it woke me up and gave me a broader perspective of the world and life.

Impactful Moment: My friend from band had won “Principal for the Day” and invited me on stage after chapel to dance. It was the first time the whole school had seen me dance and I got so much encouragement from my classmates afterwards. That allowed me to break out of my shell and I started dancing everywhere – along the sidelines at basketball games, in the hallways, you name it.

Dr. Melissa Plamann My Career: In addition to teaching organ at the collegiate level, over the years I’ve been blessed to perform throughout the United States. Since there’s no universal organ design, each instrument is unique so having the opportunity to play on different ones is challenging and exciting for me. A few years ago, I was honored to be invited back to Valparaiso University and Emory University to give distinguished alumni recitals.

WLHS Experience: My high school days were truly wonderful. I was able to participate in everything and anything and had numerous opportunities to stretch myself.

Impactful Moments: During my formative years, Wisco gave me so many experiences that fueled my passion for music. Mrs. Gretchen Schram allowed me to play the organ during chapel services and I got to accompany the choirs on piano during their performances. I also conducted the choir at our graduation ceremony. When I look back, I can’t believe how many growth opportunities were presented to me.

My Path: Dr. Carol Krause, my English teacher at Wisco, had a big impact on me and she’s the reason I originally wanted to be an English professor.

She was very demanding but I appreciated her rigorous approach and found her expectations to be motivating. I was majoring in English and piano at Valparaiso when I realized how much I loved the organ. I went on to earn a Master of Music degree at Emory University in Atlanta. During that time, I received grants for a recital of American organ concerto premieres and debuted Tilo Medek’s Italienisches Konzert. After that, I went on to complete my doctorate in Organ Performance at Indiana University in Bloomington, studying with the legendary Dr. Larry Smith.

GUIDED BY FAITH. DRIVEN BY EXCELLENCE.

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WLHS Adds to Campus

In November 2018, WLHS broke ground on an exciting campus expansion that’s adding an attractive, new amenity to the school’s offerings.

Rising from the ground along Bluemound Road is Honey Creek Hall, a contemporary, suite style dormitory that’s designed to comfortably accommodate 72 domestic and international students and help grow the school’s enrollment.

The development is also home to Honey Creek Place, a separate five-story, market-rate apartment building with 62 units that was funded by an outside group of WLHS supporters.

Early on, WLHS partnered with the architecture firm Tredo Group, which is led by Mr. Jeff Tredo (‘90) and, Catalyst Construction, which is led by Mr. Matt Burow.

For more information on the domestic student program, contact Brad Wetzel (‘98), director of admissions, 414-453-4567 ext. 1322 or brad.wetzel@wlhs.org.

Project Background

In 2014 to meet the needs of its growing international program, WLHS purchased four apartments and two townhouses from Wisconsin Lutheran College on a stretch of land adjacent to the WLHS campus along Bluemound Road and Honey Creek Parkway.

While the buildings served their purpose for a few years, they were rundown, costly to maintain, and generally unattractive to domestic and international families who were considering enrolling at WLHS. “Instead of pouring money into a group of buildings that were built in the 40s, the WLHS administration and board developed an innovative plan that drastically improved our housing offerings and eliminated debt,” says Dr. Kenneth Fisher, president of Wisconsin Lutheran High School. “In addition, the land had enough space to accommodate a standalone apartment building so the school will receive a continuous stream of income for years to come.”

Honey Creek Place (five-story market-rate apartment)

To create a sense of community, each student suite will include three, two-person bedrooms, two bathrooms and a kitchenette as a gathering space.

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WISCONSIN LUTHERAN HIGH SCHOOL || Spring 2019

A five-story market-rate apartment building compliments the

WLHS students created passage rocks to be laid in the foundation of the new Honey Creek Hall dormitory.

Financing Facts

• WLHS incurred no debt with the Honey Creek expansion and actually was able to pay off a $1.5 million loan from the original land purchase.

• To encourage outside investment, WLHS established a separate limited liability corporation, Honey Creek LLC. • To fund the expansion, Honey Creek LLC secured $3.25 million in investments from a group that includes long-time WLHS supporters, the WLHS Foundation, and WLHS. The investors also agreed to guarantee the debt of the entire project for WLHS and its Foundation.

In 2016, WLHS began offering on-campus housing for out-of-state students or those who simply live too far away for a daily commute. Since then, a number of WELS students have enrolled in WLHS, including several from the WELS school, our school in Falls Church, Virginia. This year, WLHS welcomed four domestic students from California, Montana, and Virginia.

• As one of the investors in Honey Creek LLC, WLHS will receive a portion of the yearly income from the apartments.

• Honey Creek LLC has hired an experienced management firm to oversee the apartments. That means, WLHS and its staff will not be involved in the operation or maintenance of the apartment building.

• As part of the development of Honey Creek Hall (the new, apartment-style dormitory for students), WLHS received a $500,000 gift from a generous donor to invest in the project. In addition, international parents have contributed funds to cover a portion of the furniture costs for the dorm.

•

• Honey Creek Hall will ensure WLHS remains an attractive option for domestic and international families. In addition, if WLHS ever decided to discontinue its on-campus housing program, the student suites have been designed so they can easily be converted into two-bedroom apartments, if necessary.

new residence hall and provides stream of income to investors.

The Honey Creek Place apartments feature upscale amenities, including granite countertops, large walk-in closets, balconies on all units, and underground parking. Plus, there’s a workout facility, rooftop pergola with a fire pit, and dog washing station. The 62 units range in size from efficiencies to one-, and two-bedroom apartments.

GUIDED BY FAITH. DRIVEN BY EXCELLENCE.

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School News Academics

The academic top ten for the Class of 2019 are: 1. Paul Schindler (Zion, Hartland) 2. Jack Olson (Star of Bethlehem, New Berlin) 3. Mikayla Oertel (Grace, Milwaukee) 4. Sean Wiltsey (Good Shepherd’s, West Allis) 5. Ashley Carlson (Living Word, Waukesha) 6. Jaydin Pluta (St. Lucas, Milwaukee) 7. Grace Stroh (Christ, Big Bend) 8. Chloe Albrecht (Christ the Lord, Brookfield) 9. Muqing (Samantha) Xu 10. Kallie Berger (Salem, Milwaukee)

Co-curriculars

211 medals were awarded to the fine arts students who participated in the Wisconsin School Music Association (WSMA) District Solo and Ensemble Festival. Of the students that medaled, 27 will move on to perform at State in April. Five musicians/vocalists also received perfect scores. The ensemble groups going on to State are: Jubilation, Ichthys Steelband, Brass Ensemble, Chi Ro Steelband, Percussion Ensemble, Saxophone Ensemble, Wisco Kids, and Jazz Ensemble.

School News

WLHS held its first ever fashion show “In the Image,” with the purpose of awarding a scholarship to a WLHS junior female student, based on academic success as well as community outreach and volunteer activities.

At the fashion show, Stephanie Hernandez from Arlington, Virginia, was honored as the recipient of this scholarship.

The WLHS wrestling team advanced to the team state tournament after defeating Catholic Memorial High School and upsetting Kiel High School. Only four teams advance to the Division 2 team championships from across the state. Seniors Jason Bonow and Isaiah Hahm also qualified for WIAA individual state wrestling. Isaiah placed fourth in state.

Students at WLHS have been “Reading the Bible in a Year” through an initiative by Campus Pastor Phil Huebner (’99). Anyone can join the program that started the first week in January. All 66 books of the Bible will be covered, about a book a week. Follow along on WLHS’ Facebook or Instagram pages to see what book of the Bible is being read each week.

Seniors participated in the annual Reality Store, a financial simulation that allows students to learn more about career planning, money management, budgeting, and decision making. Under the direction of business teacher Mr. Jason Goede (’94), this oneday workshop has been conducted for more than a decade.

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WISCONSIN LUTHERAN HIGH SCHOOL || Spring 2019

The Power of Knowing: Putting Your Plans in Order

In Loving Memory

Class of 1947 Marian Draeger July 3, 2018

Class of 1961 Barbara (Sweet) Kallerud November 14, 2018

Ruth Joers November 28, 2018

Class of 1964 Ernst Thom November 27, 2018

Jerome Kaphingst December 12, 2018 Class of 1948 Lois Seeger May 23, 2017

When we leave this earth for our heavenly home, we all want our loved ones protected and our assets designated to support the people and charities we care about. To accomplish that, it’s important to have a plan in place.

Without one, the courts could designate who takes care of your children and how your assets are divided. Your loved ones could even face unnecessary tax implications.

The WLHS Foundation is offering free estate planning to provide you with everything you would need to create a will or trust or revise an existing estate plan.

Craig Mellendorf of SFC Estate Coaching will be at WLHS and can meet with you (and/or your spouse) for a onehour confidential consultation to start the process of creating or revising your living trust or will. (After the initial visit, you would schedule additional meetings with Craig, which would result in your personal, lawyer-ready estate planning document.)

This opportunity is limited to 48 spots that are available on a first come, first served basis. Time slots are open each month. I encourage you to act now and not miss out on this incredible opportunity for a free and confidential consultation.

To reserve your one-hour time slot, please visit: bit.ly/SFCEstateCoaching or call Kris Metzger at 414-453-4567, ext. 2011 to set up your appointment with Craig.

If you have any other questions, I would love to answer them so please do call or email me.

Mrs. Kristine (Jeske) Metzger, WLHS (‘72) Executive Director, WLHS Foundation 414-453-4567, ext 2011 kris.metzger@wlhs.org P.S. Please don’t leave these important decisions to the court system. Have your wishes honored by creating or revising your will or trust now!

The WLHS Foundation, Inc. (EIN # 39-2028988)

Class of 1950 Norman Henning January 2, 2019 Class of 1955 Eilleen Feibach January 28, 2019 Class of 1957 Audrey Rasmussen November 30, 2018 Class of 1959 Wayne E. Schattschneider November 24, 2018 Elaine (Salinger) Timm January 1, 2019 William Stolper January 6, 2019

Class of 1965 Ronald Buelow November 25, 2018 Class of 1966 Peggy (Zastrow) Grambling November 9, 2018 Class of 1971 Rev. Douglas Scherschel September 7, 2013 Class of 1974 James Mikula January 29, 2019 Class of 1978 Bradley Schroeder April 14, 2016 Class of 1984 Kenneth Schroeder January 27, 2019 Class of 2004 Daniel Weiland December 18, 2018

Dedicated Servant Called Home On November 21, 2018, Mr. Mike Sebald (’75) was taken to heaven at the age of 61.

Mr. Sebald retired in May 2017 after dedicating more than 30 years to the ministry and students at WLHS. During that time, he taught Physical Science, Biology, Chemistry, and AP Chemistry and served as the Science Department Coordinator. Sebald also coached a variety of sports, including girls’ basketball, track, and freshman football. Upon his retirement, he shared what he liked most about WLHS. “Being able to teach in an area that I love and teaching the Word of God through science. The great Wisco GUIDED BY this FAITH. DRIVENmore

BY EXCELLENCE. 11 students also make ministry special.”

Alumni Grapevine

Donna (Bryce) Herbison (’70) wrote the book “Through My Eyes, Women of the Bible” published

by Anchor House. She resides in Tuscon, Arizona.

Dianne (Stirmel) Robertson (‘71) received two prestigious awards this past year. The statewide 2018 Meritorious Service Award from the Wisconsin City/County Management Association, and a 45-Year Service Award from the International City Manager’s Association.

Kay (Roser) Kasten (’74) and her husband Richard celebrated their 40-year wedding anniversary in 2017.

Cindy (Waedekin) Proeber (’77) and her husband Ray Proeber (’77) celebrated their 40-year anniversary on March 3, 2019.

The Parbs family gathered for a family photo in their new WL alumni t-shirts.

Family members include: Kaitlin (Parbs) Gawrisch (‘10) and Dan Gawrisch (‘03), Tim Parbs and Kelly (Wegel) Parbs (‘84), Karah (Parbs) Radue (‘09) and Marcus Radue (‘09), and Tyler Parbs (‘14).

Michael Bartholomew (‘81) was inducted into the Wisconsin Football Coaches Association Hall of Fame in March 2019. He recently retired from teaching/coaching in Wisconsin and moved to Las Vegas, Nevada, where he is an assistant coach and part-time teacher at Faith Lutheran High School.

Classmates from ’81 and ‘82 came together to catch up this past September. Classmates from 1981 included Bob Stocker, Jeff Pipkorn, Mark Statza, Larry Zwieg, and Rich Thom. Classmates from 1982 included Bruce Johnson, Dale Blazie, (backrow) Beth Kujath, Roni Kramer, Chris Mierendorf, Steve Mortl,

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WISCONSIN LUTHERAN HIGH SCHOOL || Spring 2019

Reiny Leibner, Marty Apalsh (middle row), Wendy VandenBoom, Lori Frank, Tim Williams, and Michelle Zwieg (front row).

Diane (Brenneis) Christiansen (’82) and her husband, David, celebrated their 30-year wedding anniversary on October 1, 2018.

Tracey (Pope) Tradewell (‘91) was inducted this past year into the UW-Parkside Hall of Fame as an individual athlete and as a team athlete in cross country and track and field in 1994-95.

Hannah (Reinke) Langebartels (’96) and her husband, Matt, welcomed Naomi Grace to their family on December 11, 2018. She joins big brothers Sam (3) and Jonah (2).

The family lives in Tucson, Arizona.

Dan Sterrenburg (’98) is a staff sergeant in the Army National Guard. His is currently deployed to the Middle East where he is a supply sergeant.

Sadie (Alf) Gawel (’99) and husband, Matt, welcomed their second child, daughter Sawyer Delrose, on November 30, 2018.

Sadie and Matt are also parents to son Zeke (3). Sadie teaches grades 2-4 at Bethany Lutheran in Hustisford.

Colleen (Landisch) Hansen (’99) was awarded the Next Generation Leadership Award

by Mequon-Thiensville Chamber of Commerce. Recipients of this award must be under the age of 40 and demonstrate professional leadership and have made outstanding contributions to the community.

Adria (Starrett) LaFontain (’01) and her husband, Andrew, recently purchased the Anytime Fitness located on the corner of Silver Spring Drive and Lilly Road in Menomonee Falls.

Nicole (Beglinger) Plank (’07) married Matt Plank at Christ Lutheran in Pewaukee on May 27. WLHS alumni in the wedding party included: matron of honor Tracy (Beglinger) Bredl (‘06) Melissa Graham (‘07), and mother, Joyce (Kroening) Beglinger (’76). Matt is a software engineer at Johnson Controls and Nicole an administrative assistant at an employee relocation company. The couple resides in Waukesha.

Rachel (Martin) Gastrow (’09) married Andrew Gastrow in an intimate family wedding on September 1, 2018, in Scottsdale, Arizona. The wedding party included WLHS alum Raquel (Lopez) Schmitt (’09). Rachel is a legal assistant and Andrew is an engineer.

Holly (Nygaard) Paarfusser (‘10) married Craig Paarfusser on April 28, 2018. WLHS alumni bridesmaids included: Robyn (Nygaard) Bennett (‘14) and Sara Thurber (‘11). Holly is a graphic designer in Muskego and Craig is a civil engineer in Butler.

Class of 1946

Reunions

22 classmates and 7 guests attended the latest gathering for the class of 1946 at Alioto’s restaurant.

Class of 1953 A total of 57 grads and guests met on August 23, 2018, at Meyer’s Restaurant in Milwaukee to celebrate their 65-year class reunion.

Class of 1958

Rachel (Yehle) Moyle (’10) and her husband, Mark, were blessed with a daughter, Mila, on October 30, 2017. The family resides in St. Francis.

WLHS alumni Forest (Ruizhe) Wu (‘15), Brad Meyer (’14), Chad Dale (’15), and Matt Stromman(’15) are serving as housefellows for the Wisconsin Lutheran Chapel in Madison for the ‘18-’19 school year at UW-Madison. In this role, they serve as the face of the Chapel by connecting with fellow UW-Madison students through outreach events, maintaining a clean and safe Chapel for the hundreds of students who study there on a weekly basis, and help behind-the-scenes to make Sunday worship services run smoothly.

Visit www.wlhs.org/alumni or call Erin Krug at 414-453-4567 ext. 2012 to share your Grapevine and In Loving Memory updates!

The Class of 1958 met for their 60-year reunion this past fall.

Class of 1962

The Class of 1962 gathered on October 26, 2018, for a luncheon held at Thunder Bay Grille, Pewaukee. 19 alumi attended the event were delighted by a surprise visit from a classmate who lives in North Carolina.

GUIDEDBY BYFAITH. FAITH.DRIVEN DRIVENBY BYEXCELLENCE. EXCELLENCE. GUIDED

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Winter Festival 2019 As part of winter Festival 2019 students had fun dressing up for decades day, neon glow day, and grade school rival day. (Spirit Day and Pep Fest being cancelled due to the cold weather advisories.)

Garrett Pomeroy (Frank Lloyd Wright Grade School) was crowned Festival King at the dance and was accompanied by Mikaela Sullivan (St. Jacobi Lutheran Grade School). Other members of the court included David Frey (Zion Lutheran Grade School) accompanied by Mikayla Oertel (Trinity Lutheran Grade School) pictured far left, and Jack Olson (Star of Bethlehem Lutheran Grade School) accompanied by Emily Lohr (Star of Bethlehem Lutheran Grade School) pictured far right.

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WISCONSIN LUTHERAN HIGH SCHOOL || Spring 2019

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Outing Alumni at WLHS and Alumni Seeing Double

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1-2. Members of the 1994 Conference and State girls varsity basketball team returned to WLHS to celebrate their 25-year anniversary before a WLHS girls varsity basketball game. The ‘94 team enjoyed social time to 3watch highlight videos from their championship year and4time to meet with former Coaches Lehninger and Bowe. During half-time of the varsity girls game, the current team honored these past champs with roses. 3.

At the game, Wisco basketball Grace Freyas(‘21) (pictured left)members. and Maddy (‘20) 1.-3.

WLHS is blessed to count 33players talented alumni faculty and staff 4. Bloomquist Parents from the (pictured Class of right) met with ‘94 Basketball State Champs Amy (Hurlebaus) Wolfinger (‘94) (pictured middle left) andMegan Kristin ’98 have been blessed with five sets of twins! Jodi (Neitzel) Vogel – Silas and Isabella (‘24), Brad and (Ogrezovich) Sicilia (‘94) (pictured middle right).

(Schachtschneider) Wetzel – Chase and Cole (‘28), Mandy (Oren) Passint – Kayden and Nolan (‘29), Stephanie (Piekarski) Seitz – Brady and Scotlynne (‘34), Jenny (Guenther) Vesely – Reese and Briley (‘36)

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 Editing: Carolyn Sachs; Contributing Writers: Dr. Kenneth Fisher, Monica Baer (‘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

Saturday, April 6, 5:00 p.m. at Wisconsin Lutheran High School

Register and bid online at wlhs.org/auction