celebrating true blue. - Sioux Falls Catholic Schools

O’Gorman and Cathedral Alumni
e
h
T
VOLUME 33, ISSUE 1
Fall 2014
In This Issue:
PAGE
Blue Ribbon Award
1, 3
What’s Up at O’G?
4
Celebrate My Drive
5
Class Reunions
6
Alumni Updates
9
Alumni Hall of Fame 10
In Memoriam
What’s New With
You?
www.sfcss.org
12
16
CELEBRATING
TRUE BLUE.
At O'Gorman, we're true
blue. And once again, we
have the award to prove it.
On September 30th,
the U.S. Department of
Education announced that
O'Gorman High School
would once again receive
their highest award - being
named a national Blue
Ribbon School!
This is not the first time
O'Gorman has been given
this prestigious award. We
first received it nearly 30
years ago, back in 1985.
Then, under stricter
guidelines because of the
No Child Left Behind act,
we reapplied and won it
again in 2005. It was
thrilling to receive it again.
In fact, O'Gorman is one of
only four schools in a 12
state area to receive the
award three times, and the
only school in South
Dakota. Only 48 high
schools in the entire country
earned the Blue Ribbon
Award this year, including
both public and private
schools.
That makes this year all the
more sweet. “Winning this
award once is a tremendous
accomplishment,” says
Sioux Falls Catholic
Schools’ Director of
Instruction Joan Mahoney.
“Winning it three times puts
us in a very elite group. Few
schools in the nation can
claim this honor.”
O’Gorman administrators
say the motivation to seek
the award again was to
reaffirm that the school and
students continue to move
forward and that high
standards are being
maintained. “Maintaining
the rigor is not easy. It
would be so much easier to
let it slide. Our teachers
(Continued on Page 3)
THE
Re-U-Knight-er
O’GORMAN-CATHEDRAL ALUMNI
FALL 2014 / VOLUME 33, ISSUE 1
Our mission... to
form a community of
faith and learning by
promoting a Catholic
way of life through
Gospel values and
academic excellence.
Sioux Falls
Catholic Schools
3100 W 41st St
Sioux Falls, SD 57105
SFCS President:
Mr. Robert Wehde
Director of Instruction:
Joan Mahoney
Executive Director
SFCS Foundation:
Michelle Meinen Katen, ‘87
Director of Development:
Katie Fritz
Alumni Director/Editor:
Carol Barnett Nesbitt, ‘80
Admissions Director/
Recruitment:
Sara Rankin
www.sfcss.org
O’Gorman Principal:
Kyle Groos
Vice Principals:
Joan Mahoney
Art Hagg
From the Alumni Office
Such an exciting fall already! We recently found out that O'Gorman
was named a National School of Excellence (formerly known as Top
50 Catholic High Schools) for the eighth consecutive time by the
Cardinal Newman Society for excellence in faith, academics and civic
involvement. There are only three schools in the country that can
claim the same! Isn't that exciting? And as if that wasn't enough, we
just learned that we are once again a BLUE RIBBON SCHOOL by
the U.S. Department of Education! This is the absolute highest honor
a school can earn, public or private. Please read more about the
significance in this issue. Great stuff, my friends!
The Celebrate My Drive contest is going on Oct. 15-24. Last year you helped us earn a
$25,000 prize! We're hoping for one of the $100,000 prizes this year! Please read about
the contest in this issue, but know that some of you will not receive this issue until the
drive is over because of slower postal deliveries in some areas. If you can, please help!
Lastly, if you are in town visiting family over the upcoming holidays, make sure to drive
by the school. If you’d like a tour, just give me a call or send me an email and I’ll be more
than happy to take you around.
God bless you and your families,
Carol Barnett Nesbitt, ‘80, Alumni Director
My email: [email protected]
Throwback Photo
Sparks Lots of Dialogue
The photo on page 12 of the May issue of
the Re-U-Knight-er brought many emails
and comments from our St. Mary's alumni.
Probably the most comprehensive response
was from Dan Donohue, a 1967 grad who is
in the picture. Here are his comments:
"This is a picture of my fourth grade class at
St. Mary School. Sr. Moira was our teacher.
It would've been the 1958–1959 school
year. I can name several students in the photo, including Steve Baker, Greg Bumgartner, Art
Cahalan, Kathy Colton, Dave Schmitz, JoAnn Kogel, Mary Kay Homan, Chris Thimsen, John
Everist, Sherry Hammond, Debbie Kottman, Susan Schmidt, Jean Torkildson, Jack Zimmer,
Roque Wardell, Peggy McGreevy, Barbara McDonnell, Mike Melody, Theresa Summey,
John Norberg and Tom Francis. There are others somewhere in the photo, including Doug
Fahrendorf, Joe Armbruster, Tom Faragher, Todd McDowell, Kathy Eckerman, Patty Parezo,
Pam Lloyd, and Tom Quinn. I think we had 45 or 46 students in our class at that time. Saint
Mary Church was completed while we were in fourth grade and we were the first class to be
confirmed by Bishop Hoch in the new church. Monsignor Sullivan celebrated his 25th year in
the priesthood when we were in fourth grade and the entire school put on a big celebration for
him. Our class sang Molly Malone. Father Ed Powers was the associate pastor at the church
that year." Dan, you amaze us with your keen memories! Thanks for sharing!
Find us on Facebook!
Sioux Falls O’Gorman High School
(Blue Ribbon Continued)
refuse to compromise, even though the
challenges in the classroom grow each
year,” says Mahoney.
New SFCS President Robert Wedhe is
pleased with the announcement of the
award. “O’Gorman High School will
continue to provide leadership for
school reform and improvement in the
region and throughout the country. We
are a model for others to learn about
outstanding leadership and instruction.”
“This recognition also validates the
investment our parents are making in
Catholic education for their students
because it shows that our students are
ready for post-secondary education,”
says O’Gorman Principal Kyle Groos.
The National Blue Ribbon School
Program recognizes public and private
elementary, middle, and high schools
on their overall academic excellence,
or those schools that have made
significant improvements. Every year
the U. S. Department of Education
seeks out and celebrates great
American schools, schools demonstrating that all students can achieve to high
levels. The National Blue Ribbon
School award affirms the hard work of
students, educators, families, and
Seniors Luke Miller and Graham Sudenga help announce the Blue Ribbon
award to fellow students
communities in creating safe and
welcoming schools where students
master challenging content.
President Wehde extended his
appreciation to the excellent faculty
and administrators from our elementary
schools and junior high as well.
"We know that our students do well in
high school because of the wonderful
foundation and preparation provided by
our SFCS elementaries and O'Gorman
Junior High. This award is one we
share with them."
On October 21st at 2 pm, South Dakota
Governor Dennis Daugaard and other
state and city dignitaries will be
joining the O'Gorman community for
a special celebration of this wonderful
accomplishment. We'll have pictures in
the next issue.
O'GORMAN RECEIVES SECOND NATIONAL AWARD THIS YEAR
NAMED A SCHOOL OF EXCELLENCE
The Cardinal Newman Society released the list of schools recognized by the Catholic Education
Honor Roll as 2014 Schools of Excellence. Since 2004 the Honor Roll has celebrated quality Catholic
education throughout the United States. For the eighth consecutive time, O’Gorman High School has
received this distinguished award (every year since the inception of the award). We are one of only
three high schools in the entire country to earn the award every year. Honor Roll schools receiving
this designation are marked by the integration of Catholic identity throughout all aspects of their
programs and excellence in academics. Less than five percent of the Catholic high schools in the
United States receive this award. “The Honor Roll has been a helpful tool for administrators, families
and benefactors in recognizing the quality of a Catholic high school education,” said Patrick J. Reilly,
President of The Cardinal Newman Society. “The Honor Roll schools are a reminder that Catholic
education is getting better every day—not only academically, but in the renewal of Catholic identity and we are delighted to see the increased level of competition among the schools that participated in the program this year.”
O’Gorman Principal Kyle Groos says it is an honor to be recognized and named to the Cardinal Newman Society Catholic Education
Honor Roll’s School of Excellence Award. “This recognition exemplifies our Catholic identity and academic excellence. Through
our partnership with our families, we have committed to promoting our Catholic principles and academic excellence. Our success
as a school comes from the dedication of every staff member who believes in our mission and who carries that passion throughout
everything they say and do. This award validates the work of all of our stakeholders and for that we are blessed.”
3
What’s Happening
2014 Homecoming Royalty
Congratulations to our Homecoming Royalty: (left to right) Ben Johnson, Luke Miller, Karl Shlanta, Graham Sudenga, and King
Danny Fritz, Queen Kaitlin Scott, Hope Bleeker, Racheal Haiar, Katie Kunkel, Mira Yousef. Congratulations also goes to the
following seniors who were part of the Homecoming Top 20: Samantha Anderson, Kylie Lamberty, Mattie Penisten, Christina Salter,
Andrea Veloria, Matt Billion, Davis Cowan, Easton Schuster, Charles Steffl and Teddy Steffl.
SAVE THE DATE ~ SAVE THE DATE ~ SAVE THE DATE
CAPERS 2015 ~ Monday, February 2, 2015
Capers is an elegant evening of dining and entertainment at the Sioux Falls Convention
Center. The show features auditioned individual and group acts performed by
our own O’Gorman High School Concert Choir students.
Invite your friends and family to this stylish event and support OGHS Choral programs.
Ticket sales begin in mid-November, details to follow on the O’Gorman Facebook page.
A+ SCORES ON AP EXAMS!
Great Job O†G! This past spring, we administered 189 AP exams in 13 subject areas. Tests are scored on a 1-5 scale with a 3.0
being considered a passing score. 85% of our students scored a 3.0 or higher. This is well above the state (67%) and national
(61%) pass rates for AP Exams. We also had 31 students recognized as AP Scholars from the testing this past spring. The AP
Scholar recognition is cumulative, so it is based on all the AP tests taken by each student. Congratulations to our AP Scholars!
AP Scholar (Granted to students who receive scores of 3.0 or higher on three or more AP Exams)
Ramona Alhambra * Mary Billion Brett Duffek *
Thomas Kaspar
Isaiah Lamb Alex Linneman
Connor Nerland Micah Picasso
Anne Prouse Melissa Sierra **
Nathan Sotebeer * Delanie Stene
Mike Vanveldhuizen Lauren Witte Shichuan Xi Abigail Kosiak *
AP Scholar with Honor (Granted to students who receive an average score of at least 3.25 on all AP Exams taken, and scores
of 3 or higher on four or more of these exams)
Jonah Dally * Joseph Hemmer Jaden Holzer Justin Kautz Isaac Althoff
Ryan O’Connell * Phillip Petrasko * Emily Runge * Joseph Sulaiman Erin Vogel
AP Scholar with Distinction (Granted to students who receive an average score of at least 3.5 on all AP Exams taken, and
scores of 3 or higher on five or more of these exams)
Samuel Breske Christopher Downey Audra Garrigan
Harshavardha Parameswaran
* designates Juniors (2014 seniors)
**Sophomore (’14 junior) who could move up to the next level this year depending on the number of AP exams they take and
how well they score on the exams.
at OGorman High School
YOU CAN HELP US WIN $100,000!
We need your help to Celebrate Safe Driving and Win Big!
U.S. National Teen Driver Safety Week – October 15-24
You can make a safe driving commitment once a day, every day, between October 15 - 24.
The more safe driving commitments we make, the better our school’s chance of
winning $100,000 and hosting a concert for our kids by The Band Perry!
Invite your friends / family to get involved & share on Facebook:
facebook.com/CelebrateMyDrive and vote for O'Gorman
OR:
1. Go to www.celebratemydrive.com
2. Choose O’Gorman High School
3. Commit to drive safely!
**Vote once per day / per valid email address (must be age 14+)
Prizes our high school could win:
• First Place wins $100,000 grant AND a concert by The Band Perry
• 2nd – 5th Place wins $100,000 grant
• 6th – 50th Place wins $25,000 grant
Spread the word to your friends & family! Last year we won $25,000.
This year, let's win the $100,000!! With your help we can DO this!
5
class reunions
Class of 1964 - 50 Years
Front row (L to R): Joan Wisner Wareham, Kathy Gustaf Ellenbecker, Sharon Duerst Rose, Patti Piersa Murphy, Val Warren
Koch, Karla Leithoff, Marcelline Wagner Mauler, Mary Leander Jacobson, Suzanne Volin LaBrecque, Bob Earley, Mike Clark,
Vickie Douthit. Middle Row: Janine Pekas Gale, Jim Ellenbecker, Sharon Clark Miller, Mary Dargen Brooks, Pat Helle Caver,
Diane Fonder Gallagher, Helen Rowley Martinson, Liz Schroeder Reimer, Bill McGinnis, Al Devitt, Andrine Stricherz, Mel Koch,
Miki Klaser Paulson, Jim McGreevy, Tim Reilly. Back row: Mike Alexander, Richard Fonder, Mike Gallager, Greg Connolly,
Anne McQuillen Gormley, Jim Miller, Jim Kettler, Renee Edwards Swickard, Greg Steele, Jack Ellenbecker, Mike Sullivan,
Pat Murphy. Attended 1964 reunion but not pictured: Tim McGreevy, Tom Kolb, Pat Burke, Bob Saalborn, Jean Gustaf, Judy
Gunn Witowski, Coach Mel Klein and his wife, Carol, Steve Lynch, Dave Mavity, Bob Selig and Jim Ness
Class of 1969 - 45 Years
Photo by Gene's Studio
Front Row (L to R): John Davis, John Shreves, Anne Cannon Hajek, Eileen Schmitz Bertsch, Beth Green Frankman, Kathy
Buysse Sweetman. Second Row: Jane O’Connor, Mary Kay Aslin Savage, Doug Neuberger, Bill Savage, Tom Van Anne,
Fr. Jerome Holtzman, Sr. Suzanne Cotter, Deborah Schulz Dvorak, Mary Lewis Herron. Third row: Tom Connolly, David Adler,
Nadine Zelenka Wilson, Debbie Walsh Purtell, Margot Murphy Middlen, Mark O’Connor, Kevin King, Carol Gunn Namanny,
Randy Knoll, Debbie Hanson Bloker, Mary Ann Weibers Urban, Kathy Zimmer Baldwin. Fourth Row: Don McCoy,
Mark Laughlin, Tom Huigens, Joe Kreitzer, Steve Purtell, Max Sinclair, Bob Bray, Dave Gaspar, Tom Wilka, Greg Kiley,
Steve Burns, Tom Frankman, Tom Costello. Fifth Row: Loretta Barnett Barada, Pat Connors Moore, Barb Beaulieu Schmidt,
Jocko Kaliszewski, Mary Weisbecker Retka, Caryn Loftis Solie, Sherrie Koch Manning, Martha Vanderlinde,
Mignonne Volin Schwebach, Bonnie Hauck, Cindy Doss Davis, Dan McGuire
class reunions
Class of 1974 - 40 Years
Photo by Gene's Studio
First row: Tom Mulhair, John Harris, Mary Pat Harris Taylor, Joan Leimbach Brust, Brian Galvin, Maureen Fodness Fitzgibbons,
TJ Fitzgibbons, Mike Fleming. Second row: Erin Grogan Goetzinger, Mary Kay Wiche Keers, Vikki McCoy Taylor, Jim
Zimmerman, Frank Snyder, Dan Beacom, Jean Leimbach Nichols, Jim Murray, Laurie Momsen Murray, Steve Billion.
Third row: Dan Fleming, Gary Heiberger, Jim Eppel, Larry Brende, Scott Neuroth, Mike Brzica, Bill Pederson
Class of 1979 - 35 Years
We had a great weekend of fun! Friday included a social gathering, Saturday included a golf event and gathering later at Jazz Fest.
Class of 1984 - 30 Years
Tom Weisensee, Anne Wick Nelson, Jeanne Barnett Vold, Angie Heinemann Soukup, John Billion, Dana Butz Miller, John Spader,
Karen Zimmer Wunder Colestock, Jim Soukup, Reone Limke Ullom, Susan English Theis, Richard Szameit, Julie Johnson Brunmeier,
Cindy Roering Baldwin, Teresa Thomassen Hillberg, Anne Tordsen Horst, Beth Esco Jamison, Karen Curley Boone, Mike Fodness, Lisa
Ovrelid Morris, Greg Baldwin. Not pictured: Grant Galvin, Joe Dardis, Stacey Darger Donovan, Missy Flynn, Stacey Carlberg
7
class reunions
Class of 2004 - 10 Years
Had a great night Friday at McNally's and Saturday we toured the school and
ended the day at the Tschetter farm. So much fun to see everyone!
The Class of 1952 recently held a minireunion in Sioux Falls with a lunch gathering
at CJ Callaway's (62 years since graduation).
Pictured in the front row (l to r): Joan
Forrette Middendorff, Charlotte Larscheid
Oster, Marj Smith Tapken, Vonnie Shields
(in front of Jim) and Char Hunter, widow
of Jim Hunter. Back row: Marilyn and Fran
Synsvoll, Rich Baker, Bob Oster and Jim
Shields.
~UPCOMING REUNIONS for 2015~
Class of 1965 - 50 Years - October 9 - 10, 2015
The O'Gorman Class of 1965 is already planning their 50th reunion! Mark your calendars and make plans to
join them. Dates are October 9-10, 2015. Friday night includes appetizers and cocktails; Saturday includes a
buffet dinner. More info to come. Reunion contacts are: Mike Gillespie, 605-332-1463, Greg LaFollette,
605-271-1759, and Bob Thoen, 605-371-3097.
Find us on Facebook!
We now have Facebook groups for both O’Gorman and the Sioux Falls Catholic Schools.
O’Gorman’s is a group that you can request to join, and the Sioux Falls Catholic Schools
is a page you can “like”. Consider joining one or both!
Find O’Gorman’s group by searching for Sioux Falls O’Gorman High School.
We already have over 1900 members. Join us!
alumni news
'95
David Meyer earned his bachelors of accounting degree
and studied nutrition and exercise. He works for Sammons Financial
Group- Commissions Accounting. He writes, "I moved back to
South Dakota to marry my high school sweetheart, Karen Hillman.
I am loving spending time exercising or spending time with my
family. I teach a course on how to reverse the aging process with a
plant-based diet for Community Education and my presentation is
'43
Maryls Erickson Zimmer married Eugene Zimmer in
based on 20,000 scientific studies. I am also playing a couple small
June of 1944 in El Paso, TX. They recently celebrated their 70th
parts in a local play for the community, Little Shop of Horrors."
wedding anniversary (FANTASTIC!!) with a family gathering. They David has three step-sons: Maxwell, 11, Alex, 8, and Lennox, 4.
lived in Sioux Falls but now enjoy country living in retirement in
His email: [email protected]. His address is: 1532 S. River
Montrose, SD. Their children are: Suzanne Jimmerson, '64,
Oak, Brandon, SD 57005
Beverly Underwood, '65, Patricia Zimmer, '67, Kenneth Zimmer,
Anita Carey, '70, Roger Zimmer (dec), Gary Zimmer, Jacqueline
'97
Erin Lofswold Eleria and her husband, Alan, welcomed a
Halbritter, Nicholas Zimmer (dec) and Brian Zimmer. They also
child, Claire, on Feb 15, 2014. Erin has a BA in biology and
have 18 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren. Marlys was a
Catholic Studies from the University of St. Thomas. She is working
homemaker and full time mom to all of those kids! You can send
towards a MBS with a concentration in cancer biology at the
your greetings to her at: 45407 252nd St, Montrose, SD 57048
University of Minnesota. She is a Research Associate with R & D
Systems / Bio Techne. You can reach Erin via her email address:
'56
Fr. James Bream recently marked a major milestone [email protected]
50 years as a priest! He was ordained on May 24, 1964. Congrats,
Fr. Jim, and thanks for your service to the church.
Nate Vogel just accepted an asst. coaching position on the
'98
men's
basketball
staff at Maryville University (NCAA - D2) in
'63
Ron Staebell has his BA in business administration from
St.
Louis,
MO.
He
was previously the head coach at Lutheran Northern State, and his MSFS from American College. He is a
St.
Charles
High
School
also in St. Louis. Nate and his wife, Tracie,
senior financial services representative for Principal Financial
have
lived
in
STL
for
the
past nine years. Nate's email address is:
Group. He writes, "After completing three college level courses,
[email protected].
His address: 276 Tyndale Dr., O'Fallon,
I was awarded the designation of Retirement Income Certified
MO
63366
Professional by the American College in PA." Ron and his wife,
Former Faculty:
Former O'Gorman teacher and attendance director Rod "Grizz"
Garrison says he's officially retiring from coaching golf after this
year. He's been coaching the girls' golf team for 31 years and the
boys' team for 15. This past June, he was inducted into the National
High School Athletic Coaches' Association Hall of Fame.
Virginia, have six children: Chad, Dan, Audra, Dawn, Elizabeth
and Tiffany. His email: [email protected]. His address is:
4309 S. Town Park Place, Sioux Falls, SD 57105
Brian Josten and his wife, Beth, welcomed their first child,
'02
Benjamin Joseph, on March 23rd. He weighed 3 lbs, 12 oz. He had
a two month stay in the hospital but is now doing well at home.
'65
Karen (Serena) Sechser attended USD's graduate school
and is a board-certified chaplain. She writes, "I've started a two
year program to be an addictions counselor. College isn't what it
used to be!" Karen has two children, Al and Paulette. Her email is:
[email protected]. Her address is: 7300 State Ave #607, Kansas City, KS 66112.
Caitling Cummings Anderson and her husband, William,
'03
welcomed their third baby, Winston Gregory, on November 11th,
2013. He joins older siblings Lucy, 5, and Oscar, 2, at home.
Caitlin's email address is: [email protected]
'68
Dan Burkey and his wife, Patty, have spent the spring and
summer raising awareness and money for Meneire’s Disease
research. Dan has committed to ride a unicycle one mile in all 95
state parks in Iowa (that's a lot of miles on a unicycle!). Patty, who
has Meniere’s Disease, is riding the miles on a recumbent tricycle.
They have established a fund through the University of Iowa
Foundation, which can be accessed at www.givetoiowa.org/burkey.
Follow Dan’s blog at pedaltheparks.BlogSpot.com. His email:
[email protected]
Lance Nyberg is working for Customer Engineering
'70
Services (C.E.S.) in Omaha. His children are Haley and Daron.
His email is: [email protected]. His address is: 5314 Corby
St. Apt #2, Omaha, NE 68104
Susan Flynn Schoening and her husband, Scott, welcomed
‘91
a daughter, River Maureen, on April 9th, weighing 4 lbs, 12 oz.
River has a big sister, Arden, who is five. They live in Colorado.
Brian Lynch and his wife, Jill, welcomed a baby girl,
'91
Madelyn Annedale Lynch, on 9/5/14. Maddy weighed 10lbs. 4oz.
at birth! She joins her sister, Lilly, at home.
'06/'07 Trey and Jenny (Miller) Krier recently welcomed a baby,
Coyer. Jenny attended Mt. Marty College and is teaching first grade
at Sacred Heart School in Yankton. Trey also attended Mt. Marty
and teaches high school math and is head girls' basketball coach at
Yankton High School. Jenny's email address is:
[email protected]
Lisa Haffeman Ostermann graduated from SDSU with a
'07
bachelor's in sociology, human development and family studies.
She married her college sweetheart, Beau Ostermann, in 2010. They
welcomed a son, Will Andrew, in 2011, and a daughter, Georgia
Claire, in 2013. Lisa is loving life as a stay-at-home mom. The
Ostermanns live in Sioux Falls and attend St. Michael Parish.
'11
Austin Whaley graduated from Naval Nuclear Power
Training Command on 9-26. Now he heads to Saratoga Springs, NY,
for Prototype school for up to six months. Then he will be assigned
to the Fleet as a Nuclear Electrician on an Aircraft carrier. He
finished Power School receiving the Commander’s "Award for
Personal Excellence”.
Veronica Fritsch recently released a new single on iTunes
'12
called, "I Dodged a Bullet". Check it out!
9
o'gorman-cathedral
2014 Hall of Fame Inductees
Left to right: Coach Don Fox (on behalf of the Football Team of 1967), Mike McCarty, Fanette Steele Stewart, Helga
Szameit (on behalf of her son, Hans-Peter), Steve Steele, Dan Donohue, Jim Ignowski, Patti Ford.
Members of the 1967 football team, along with their
head coach Don Fox, and Asst. Coach Mel Klein
Fanette Steele Stewart, '53
Excellence in Service
Mike McCarty
Coach Don Fox talking
about his "boys" (the
1967 Football Team)
Jim Ignowski & family
Fr. Chuck Cimpl giving the
blessing before the luncheon.
Dan Donohue
Patti Ford & family
Hans-Peter Szameit's
mom accepting the
award on his behalf.
Steve Steele
alumni hall of fame
James S. Ignowski, ’80 – Excellence in Academics
Jim has spent his electrical engineering career in the electronics
industry, primarily in technical leadership roles in the research and
development of a variety of integrated circuit technologies. He
designed bipolar chips for optoelectronic products prior to serving
as the project leader of the world’s first Complementary MetalOxide Semiconductor optical transceiver chip set. He invented and
designed many cutting edge products while working for HP and
Intel, including technology which is now utilized in every Intel
microprocessor, he’s designed multiple generations of analog circuits
and advanced system architectures for thermal management. He
also designed the analog circuits for technology that is now utilized
throughout the industry. Jim is currently leading the circuit research
and design team for a revolutionary technology that potentially
change the nature of computing.
1967 O’Gorman Football Team – Excellence in Athletics
The 1967 football team, coach by Don Fox, was the first
outstanding football team in O’Gorman sports history and helped
establish a tradition of winning football. The team had one of the
best defensive teams in South Dakota 11 man football history.
The team’s 31-points-allowed season ranks 13th in all-time 11
man history. The team only allowed 50 first downs all season, an
all-time 11 man record. Their 470-rushing-yards-allowed season is
second all-time in 11 man football state history. There was no
football playoff system in South Dakota in 1967 but they were
ranked #1 in the Siouxland and #2 in South Dakota. The team
included two players that went on to play Division One football
and nearly a dozen of the team members played college football.
P. Daniel Donohue, ’67 – Excellence in Service
Dan has served at his parish as a lector, Eucharistic Minister, and
Parish Council member. As a member of an exploratory committee
he worked with the bishop and pastors of the Sioux Falls parishes to
consolidate the individual Catholic schools of Sioux Falls into one
unified system - the Sioux Falls Catholic Schools - and then served
on the system’s Development Committee for years. That committee
also started the SFCS Annual Fund Drive. Dan served on the SFCS
Foundation Board for several years and as its President in 1988.
Dan’s focus on providing opportunities for children led him to serve
on the Board of Directors and as President of various non-profit
organizations, including Junior Achievement, Boy Scouts, Habitat
for Humanity, Children’s Care Foundation, and many others.
Mike McCarty, ’98 – Excellence in Athletics
Mike excelled in basketball at O’G, was a SIC All-Conference
selection, and was named to the South Dakota AA All-State team. He
was known for efficient shooting ability and ended his career in 5th
place on O’Gorman’s all-time scoring list with 812 points. He also
held school records for most career 3-point goals and most 3-point
goals in a game. Mike led O’Gorman to a 2nd place finish in the
1998 State basketball tournament, while establishing career highs
of 26 points and 14 rebounds in a game. He was selected to the AllTournament team. Mike started as a freshman on the University of
Sioux Falls men’s basketball team and led the SDIC conference in
3-point percentage. He then transferred to Black Hills State where
in just three years, Mike scored over 1,500 points and was 7th on
the school’s all-time scoring list. Mike was named an NAIA AllAmerican and led his team to two national tournament appearances.
He holds the Black Hills State school record for free-throw percentage
in a season at 90.6% and was also selected to BHSU’s All-Century
Team compiled of the best basketball players in the school’s history.
Hans-Peter Szameit, ’85 – Excellence in the Arts
Hans is an artist, educator and entrepreneur. Encouraged by his art
teacher, Gary Siska, Hans put his passion for drawing and painting to
paper. He pursued his interest in traditional, realistic painting by
spending several years studying art in Europe. In 2000, Hans returned
to Sioux Falls and with his wife founded Pantura Studios. There, they
not only created their own artwork, but also offered rigorous training to
a small group of dedicated art students. In 2006, they moved to Sweden
and founded The Swedish Academy of Realist Art, now an internationally recognized school of art, attracting students from around the
world. Hans acts as both director of the school and one of its primary
instructors. He continues to create his own personal artwork, which you
can find in galleries and private collections throughout the world.
Patti Ford, ’79 – Excellence in Athletics
Now in her 23nd season as head volleyball coach, Patti has developed one of the most successful athletic programs at the University of
Wisconsin-River Falls. She has guided the Falcons to four Wisconsin
Intercollegiate Athletic Conference Championships and six NCAA
Div. III national tournament appearances. Last year she recorded her
500th career win. Her team’s success has her in a category few obtain
and finds her among some of the finest coaches within the WIAC and
nationally. Ford currently ranks fifth in the WIAC in all-time career
wins and second among active WIAC coaches in wins. She has guided
the Falcons to 16 20+ win seasons with six of those being 30 or more
win seasons. Ford’s athletes have garnered conference, regional and
national awards. She has coached 59 athletes to All-WIAC honors, 29
athletes to AVCA All-Midwest Region, and 15 athletes to All-American
status. She has received many Coach of the Year awards.
Steve Steele, ’65 – Excellence in Athletics
Steve excelled in football, basketball & track. In 1964 & 1965 he was
chosen as a defensive player for the Class AA All-State team. He was
the “6th man” on the 1964 Catholic Championship basketball squad.
Steve also played baseball in the Sioux Falls American Legion League,
and played on two All-Star teams in State & Regional tournaments.
Steve was the first recipient of the Lee Dolan Award. He earned an
athletic scholarship to the South Dakota School of Mines &
Technology. While there, he was voted to the SDIC District 12 AllConference team two years and was awarded Little All-American Team
Honorable Mention. Steve is listed in the 1969 edition of Outstanding
College Athletes of America. He continues to be involved in sports
and won four National Open Division Tournaments in 19 attempts as
part of the National Association of Left Handed Golfers.
Fanette Steele Stewart, ’53 – Excellence in Service
Fanette was a single mom who worked full-time but always made
time to help others in her community. She worked as a teacher and a
legislative assistant and volunteered at the VFW and Veteran’s home
in Spokane, WA. For the last 32 years of her career, she worked as a
legislative assistant in one of the poorest districts in Washington State,
going above and beyond helping constituents find health care, food,
help with heating bills or help with disability claims. Since retirement,
Fanette organizes holiday parties for children of soldiers stationed
overseas and coordinates many events for her local Veteran’s Home. She
often helps the vets with unmet needs including supplies for showers,
lap robes for those who are wheelchair bound, organizing volunteers to
help take veterans to the local fair and more. In addition to her extensive
work with veterans and active duty military, Fanette has volunteered
for many other organizations including, the Autism Society, Special
Olympics, and the American Cancer Society. She has received many
local, state and national awards for her outstanding service, and we are
honored to be able to add our Hall of Fame Award to that list!
11
in memoriam
The O’Gorman / Cathedral Alumni
Association extends its sympathies
to the friends and families of:
U Phyllis Miller, wife of Cy; mother of: Laurie, '70, Chuck and
Ann.
U Arlene Vick, mother of: Jacque Callis, ’74, Warren Vick, ’77,
Karen McKee, ’81, and Deanna Mau, ‘70 (deceased).
U Ralph Koch, father of Sherrie Manning, '69, Dick Koch,'73,
Barb Rydell, '75; grandfather of Ben, '04 and Lisa Koch, '07.
U Paul VanderWoude, husband of Susan; father of: Becky, '89,
Anthony, '90, and Lori, '94.
U
Ed Behrends, husband of Patricia, '51.
U Bob Pollock, brother of Debra Pollock Peters, '74, Patty
Pollock Rand, '76, and Laurie Pollock Markley, '80.
U Paul Harris, husband of Loretta; father of: Bill Harris, '77,
Bob Harris, '79, Teresa Henrickson, '81, Donna Harris, '82,
Kathy Engeman, '85, and Cindy Dougherty, '86.
U Bill Doetzel, husband of Carole Krell Doetzel, '55; father of:
Mary Kay, Scott, Kathy, Greg, and Dan; grandfather of: Nick
Doetzel, '08, Stuart Doetzel, '10, Molly Doetzel, '16, Charlie
Garry, '10 and Meg Garry, '14.
U
Mark Amundson, father of Dan, '04, and Molly, '12.
U TJay Teveldal, son of Pam Lowe, who is the wife of Rob
Lowe, '88.
U Pete Scholten, husband of Mick; father of: Brian Scholten,
'81, Chris Scholten, '83, Mary Baker, '85, and Sheila Abbas.
U Cody Brantley, husband of Amie Marquardt Brantley, '02,
father of Ayla.
U Kay Paa, wife of Jim, '55 (deceased); mother of Chris, '87,
and Heidi, '88.
U Arnie Juhler, father of Angie Juhler Rabon, '79, and Mike
Juhler.
U Mary Winterscheidt, mother of: Laurie Hiler, Rebecca
Winterscheidt, Amy Winterscheidt, John Winterscheidt, '82, and
Sarah Winterscheidt, '84.
U JoAnn Zimmer, daughter of Steve and Donna Zimmer; twin
sister of Steve, '90 and sister of Michael Zimmer, '97.
Michael Carr, '88
Michael passed away October 3, 2014 in Cody, WY,
as a result of a fatal car accident. After high school he
attended Black Hills State, where he played football,
and then joined the United States Navy in 1990. After
the service he moved to Colorado where he met and
married his wife Deana in September of 2000. He
worked a few jobs, and was currently working in Cody, WY.
Michael enjoyed participating & watching sports, especially his
beloved Green Bay Packers. But more than anything he enjoyed
spending time with his family. His children, Melissa, Hailey and
Mason, were his pride and joy of his life. Michael is survived by
his wife, Deana and his children; step-daughters, Laurie and Hollie;
his parents, Maurice and Pat Carr; three sisters, Laurie Moran, '89,
Jennifer Whiting, '98, and Amy Muller, '02; his birth mother, Chris
Thomas; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents. Memorials may be
directed to the Sioux Falls Catholic Schools Foundation,
3100 W. 41st St, Sioux Falls, SD, 57105.
Therese Silvis, '45
Therese died June 1, 2014. She graduated from
Presentation School of Nursing/McKennan. She worked
in Omaha and later Detroit. She then returned to Sioux
Falls where she was employed at McKennan Orthopedic
Associates, Litton Microwave and Good Samaritan
Village. She retired in 1994. Therese was a member of
Christ the King Church. She is preceded in death by five
siblings, and is survived by several nieces and nephews. She
donated her body to USD Medical School.
Richard A. Scherschligt, '59
Richard, died June 28, 2014, in Illinois Richard served
his country from 1962-64 as a pharmacy specialist in the
U.S. Army. In 1965, he married Sherly DeBlauw. He was
a graduate of SDSU School of Pharmacy and worked for
Osco Drug for more than 30 years, making a career first
as a pharmacist and then in management before retiring in 1998 as a
market manager. A loving husband, father, and grandfather, Richard
loved and enjoyed spending time with his family. He was a dedicated
Illini, St. Louis Cardinals, and Green Bay Packers fan. He enjoyed
fishing, tennis and golf. He was a long-time member of the Urbana
Country Club and spent many hours on the golf course in his
retirement. Survivors include his wife, Sheryl, and their two children,
Barbra and Robert; five grandchildren; two siblings, Karen Fox, '60,
and Bradley Scherschligt; and nieces and nephews. He was preceded
in death by his brother-in-law, Paul Fox.
Robert Gregory Pritchard, Sr, '75
Bob died May 27, 2014 in Jackson, MN. He graduated from
USD and received his Master's degree from USF and taught
Mass Communications at Iowa Lakes Community College at
the time of his death. Robert had many passions in life. He
was a member of the First Baptist Church. His love for Jesus
carried over into his writing, and he accomplished a life goal
when his book, "Truth Be Told", was published. He loved spending time
with his granddaughters, rescuing dogs, swinging a golf club and rooting
for the Minnesota Twins. He is survived by his wife, Pat; son, Anthony;
two grandchildren; five step-children; siblings Jeri Baker, '66, Pam
Pritchard, '70, Patty Bassing, '74, and Mike Pritchard, '68; two nieces
and two nephews. His son, Robert, Jr, died September 26, 2014.
John F. Devine, '48
John died February 19, 2014. He was preceded in death
by his wife Donna. He is survived by sons: Steven,
Timothy, Greg, Anthony, Ted, Michael, Dan and Joseph;
57 grandchildren; and a sister, Doris Rhody.
Sandra M. "Sandy" Schafer Achenbach, '69
Sandy died January 17, 2014 in Albuquerque.
Nursing was her passion for over 40 years.
She is survived by her brother, Larry Schafer,
'66; her sister, Jane Walczak, '70; a niece and
nephew, and many cousins. She was preceded
in death by her husband, Carroll R. Achenbach.
Kathy Ann Douthit Pfeifer, ‘62
Kathy died peacefully at home on May 23, 2014. She married Joe Pfeifer in 1967. She danced and loved music like a teenager long after she was one. She is survived by her son, John; two daughters, Barb and Kristen; six grandchildren; sisters,
Diane Cook, '53, Connie Anderson, '55, Dorothy Keating, '58, Debbie Bolger, '66, Vickie Douthit, '64, Sue Carey, '57, and
Barb Litchfield; 14 nieces and seven nephews.
Betty Laddusaw Menden, '43
Betty died July 26, in
Shakopee, MN. She married
Eugene Menden in 1945. She
worked for more than 35 years
at the First National Bank of
Shakopee while she and
Eugene raised nine children. She was
passionate about her Catholic faith. She was
a volunteer for many years for St. Mary's
Church, S.A.C.S. school, Meals On Wheels
and the Bloodmobile. She loved knitting and
crocheting, crafting afghans and other items
of clothing for each of her 19 grandchildren.
She also enjoyed reading, listening to music,
and sharing stories with her children and
grandchildren. Betty relished traveling and
exploring her heritage with her four sisters.
She is survived by nine children: Bill, Joyce,
Connie, Tony, Dan, Larry, Sue, Rich, and
Deb; 19 grandchildren; 32 great grandchildren; and four sisters, Lavonne Monnens, '45,
Avis Reckinger, Marilyn Lang, and Colleen
Pavek. She was preceded in death by her
husband.
Regina Szameit Vensand, '82
Gina Vensand died July 9, 2014, at Dougherty Hospice after a battle with
cancer. Following her graduation from O'Gorman, she was employed
with Litton Industries and then Hutchinson Technology. In 1994 Gina
began working for AT&T as a field technician, eventually becoming a
switch technician, a position she was currently holding. She enjoyed her
job and deeply appreciated the support, kindness and compassion of her
supervisors and coworkers. Her zest for life was evidenced in her passion for travel.
Crossing the globe, Gina enjoyed sailing in the Bahamas and zip lining in Costa Rica.
Simply put, she never missed an opportunity to hug a palm tree. Gina delighted in trips
with family and friends to the Dominican Republic, England, Germany, Ireland and
Canada. When she was not traveling, working, or spending time with her cats, Gina
could be found shopping and had a passion for shoes. Gina recently took up gardening,
and loved growing and caring for her flowers and vegetables. Blessed with a deep love
for life, Gina maintained a strong faith. Prayer was a constant companion, particularly
throughout her journey with cancer. Putting others first, Gina was often found in the
background helping someone in a time of need. Her independent spirit, quirky sense
of humor, loyalty and trustworthy nature will be forever remembered. Gina is survived
by her mother, Marcie Szameit; her siblings, Heidi Szameit Evans, '88, and Richard
Szameit, '84; six nieces; an uncle, several aunts and cousins. She was preceded in
death by her father and grandparents.
Julie Aylward Ollerich, '37
Julia died July 30, 2014. After Cathedral,
she earned her teaching certificate from
Mount Marty College in Yankton. She
became an elementary school teacher
and taught at the Dewey School in rural
Lincoln County. She married William
Ollerich in 1940 at the St. Magdalen’s in Lennox. The
couple lived on a farm north of Tea. In 1961 they moved
to their farm home west of Sioux Falls. Julia worked as
a cook at the Sioux Falls Livestock Auction Co., Nelson
Concessions, and the Minor Seminary in Sioux Falls.
Julia was an active and faithful member of St. Nicholas
Church in Tea. She belonged to the Catholic Daughters
for 35 years. She was deeply religious and was involved
in Bible study and church group activities. Julia was an
Avera McKennan Hospital volunteer for over 20 years.
She traveled extensively to all 50 states and Europe.
She had been a 4H leader and enjoyed her large gardens,
canning and baking apple pies from their own apple
trees-making sure all the apples were utilized. Julia
was a gifted seamstress who sewed for her daughters
and made wedding dresses and formals. Because her
parents died at a young age, William and Julia raised
Julia’s younger brother, “Boz” and sister, Peggy. Julie is
survived by her six children: Janet Timmerman, Joanne
Berg, '63, Jerald Ollerich, '66, Jeffrey Ollerich, '68,
Jerome Ollerich and James Ollerich; 14 grandchildren;
21 great-grandchildren; her sister, Peggy Kemp, '43,
and a sister-in-law, Ruth Aylward Pommer, as well as
other relatives and friends. Julia was preceded in death
by her husband, one daughter, June, two brothers:
Vincent and Phillip “Boz”, '46, son-in-law, Roger Berg
and daughter-in-law, Rita Ollerich.
Ashley Johnson, '01
Ashley died June 10, 2014. She attended USD in Vermillion
where she graduated suma cum laude with a bachelor’s degree
in biology and chemistry. Ashley enrolled in the accelerated
nursing program at the University Center in Sioux Falls where
she graduated with her RN degree in 2008. She worked for
Universal Pediatrics in Sioux Falls, and for the after school
program with the Sioux Falls Public Schools. Grateful for
having shared her life are her mom, Reva Rezac; her dad, Gary Johnson; her
sister, Rosa Nordstrom, '03; step-sisters, Sarah, Laura, Dani, Kelly and Kari;
step-brother, Jamie. She is also survived by several nieces and nephews.
Mike Mancuso, '78
Michael died unexpectedly on June 19, 2014 at Avera
McKennan Hospital. From an early age, Mike was a train
enthusiast. He spent much of his leisure time building and
painting model trains. He was also interested in the history of
the American West and avidly read on that subject. Mike was
employed at Southeastern Behavioral Health at the time of his
death. He is survived by his mother, Virginia Mancuso; three sisters, Kathy
Mancuso, '70, Joanne Mancuso, '72, Deb Behrens; three brothers, Mark
Mancuso, '79, Tim Mancuso, '80, Joe Mancuso, '82; several nieces,
nephews and great-nephews; and a host of other relatives and friends. Mike
was preceded in death by his father, Joseph, and a sister, Marianne Nyhus.
Kathleen "Kay" Lucas Jensen, '57
Kay died April 25, 2014 in Sioux Falls following a courageous
battle against cancer. Kay worked for the telephone company
for 27½ years as a tracer. Her phone company affiliation
includes membership in the Telephone Pioneers. She was
also a long time member of the Cathedral of St. Joseph and
the Catholic Daughters. In 1979, she married Vernon “Bud”
Jensen. Some of Kay’s hobbies include snowmobiling, and
becoming an accomplished artist in stained glass and fused glass. She was
able to produce many original stained glass pieces throughout her life, a
passion that became a second profession. She is survived by her husband;
and three daughters, Cinda Wilson, '82, Cheryl Robertson, and Karla
Romereim, '86; six grandchildren; and one great grandchild. She was
preceded in death by her granddaughter, Carrie.
13
in memoriam
Tim Crawford, '72
Tim died May 7, 2014, in Sioux Falls. He earned
his B.A. in business administration with a major
in accounting in 1982. Tim enjoyed motorcycles
and family vacations at Lake Cochrane. He was
active in Boy Scouts and wrestling at O'Gorman.
Tim is survived by siblings: Mary Jo, '73, Terri,
Julie, '77, Peggy, '81, Casey, '82, Dan, '70, Leo,
and Paul, '79; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded
in death by his parents, Leo and Gay.
Margaret E. Naughton Standal, '48
Margaret "Margo" died June 23, 2014, in New Hope,
MN. Margo worked as a nurse at HCMC for over 30
years in the Emergency Room. A longtime
St. Clement's Rosary Guild member, Margo enjoyed
teaching Basic Aid Training to children, traveling,
sports and spending time with her extended family
and friends. Margo is survived by her children, Julie, Trisha, Paul
and Peter; seven grandchildren; her sisters, Ann Schaefle, '50,
Kathleen Jasper, '53, Sr. Sarah Naughton, '64, and Mary Glover,
'69; her brothers, Tom, '61, John, '66, Dan, '60, Greg, '55; and
many nieces, nephews and friends. She was preceded in death by
husband, Howard, and a brother, Michael, '51.
Helen Kelley Kunkel, '41
Helen died July 28, 2014, in Oak Park Heights, MN.
She married Dale Kunkel, '40, in 1943. She lived
in Sioux Falls most of her life moving to Minnesota
in 2013. Helen was a member of St. Michael
Parish and Catholic Daughters of America. She was
a charter member of Christ the King. Helen started
as an operator at Northwestern Bell Telephone
Company in 1941 and retired in 1983 from US West after 37 years
of service. She was a proud member of the telephone pioneers. She
enjoyed fishing trips and traveling in the camper with her husband.
Especially important to her was the time she spent with her two
granddaughters. She is survived by her daughter: Mary Helen
Breci, '66; two granddaughters: Gina and Kara; two great-grandchildren: Vinny and Noelle; and twenty-five nieces and nephews
who filled her life with love. She was preceded in death by her
husband, Dale, and her sister, Margaret Kelley Hanneman, '43.
Sgt. Sergei J. Hearst, '07
Sergei was born in Perm, Russia. He died June 13, 2014, in Killeen, TX. Two
weeks after graduation he enlisted in U.S. Army and attended boot camp in
Ft. Benning, GA. Sergei was assigned to Troop F, 2nd Squadron, 3rd Cavalry
Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division at Fort Hood, since April 2012. He began
active-duty service in June 2007 as an infantryman and deployed in support of
Operation Iraqi Freedom from October 2009 to June 2010. His awards include
two Army Achievement Medals, two Army Good Conduct Medals, National
Defense Service Medal, Iraqi Campaign Medal with campaign star, Global War on Terrorism
Service Medal, Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon, Army
Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, Combat Infantry Badge and Marksmanship
Qualification Badge Sharpshooter with Rifle. Sergei is survived by his wife, Clair and
their son, John; his mother, Elaine, his father, Jack; a brother, Brad Hearst; sisters, Reshma
Hearst, '07, and Krystal Hearst, '10; and maternal grandparents, Ed and Lorraine Boumann.
Virginia Lee Edrich Peterson, ‘51
Virginia passed away
July 2, 2014 in Texas.
She married Robert
Peterson in 1951. They
moved to Texas in 1973
and were members of
St. Ann Catholic Church
since 1981 where Virginia served on
the cleaning and food committees. She
is survived by her children: Michael,
Thomas, Jeffrey, Bobbi, Donald; 12
grandchildren; six great grandchildren;
her siblings, Bob Edrich, '49 and Kay
Grace, '47; and numerous nephews
and nieces. She was preceded in
death by her her husband of 28 years,
Robert her beloved siblings, Peg, '45,
Mary, '53 and Jack, '57; and her infant
children, Robert, Donna and Patrick.
Cathleen Linahan Curry, '46
Cathy died August 9, 2014, in Sioux City, IA. She attended St. Catherine's College in St. Paul, MN, and SDSU. She
married James Curry in 1948 at St. Joseph's Cathedral. A born-and-bred city girl, Cathleen married a farmer from Elk
Point, and together they raised nine children until Jim's death in 1971. After Jim's death, Cathy took classes at USD
and Briar Cliff College, graduating with a degree in theology in 1980 and she went on to work for Catholic Family
Services of Sioux Falls. Cathy volunteered much time to the Beginning Experience of Eastern South Dakota team,
helping people who were widowed, divorced and separated to deal with their grief. She was instrumental in starting
B.E. in the Sioux City Diocese and also in the Diocese of Sunderland, England. Valuable friendships all over the
world grew out of this ministry. In 1983, Sioux Falls Bishop Paul Dudley called a Synod and appointed Cathy chairperson of the
committee dealing with the Role of Women in the Diocese of Sioux Falls. As head of this committee, she was the first woman to
address a synod in the diocese. Cathleen was the author of three books, each dealing with grief and spirituality. She was always there
to comfort people in her community who were dealing with the death of loved ones. In 2011, Cathy moved to an assisted living
facility. Though facing decreased health from Parkinson's Disease and other ailments, she continued to write until the end of her life,
focusing on her reflections on aging, chronic illness and spirituality. Cathy's life was marked by a deep faith in our Lord Jesus Christ
and a love for the Catholic Church. In mid-life, she became an oblate of the Benedictine monastery at Blue Cloud Abbey in Marvin.
SD. She was fortified by the mystery of her walk with God, and until her last days she helped many others in their spiritual journeys.
Survivors include her nine children: Peggy, Daniel, Timothy, Julie, Kevin, Russ, Colleen, Steve and Jennifer; 18 grandchildren; one
great-grandson; a sister-in-law, Jacqueline Curry, and a brother-in-law, John Curry. She was preceded in death by her husband; sisters
Sheila Payne, '50 and Mary Victor.
Kevin Gross, '80
Kevin died very unexpectedly on October 2, 2014, while home
in Sioux Falls to attend his mother, Mary's funeral. (see obit on
right) While at O'Gorman, Kevin won two back-to-back State
Wrestling Championships, a feat that was a first at the school.
He continued his love for the sport at SDSU where he earned a
BS in education. In 1986 he married Laurie Tarr. They moved
to Wheaton, MN where he began a passion for teaching and
coaching and continued for 24 years. He loved helping kids grow and
develop not just in their athleticism but more importantly in their character.
Kevin never passed up an opportunity to share with others his amazing
singing ability. As a coach, he led the Wheaton-Herman-Norcross Bullets
(wrestlers) to the State Finals for seven consecutive years. The team claimed
the State Championship in 1996, which was the first State Championship in
Wheaton history. Kevin was inducted into the O'Gorman-Cathedral Hall of
Fame for Excellence in Athletics for his contributions as a wrestler and
coach. In 2010, he retired from teaching and joined his wife, Laurie, in
taking on their Herbalife career fulltime and they trained leadership all
around the world. Kevin used his natural gifts of public speaking and
motivation to touch countless lives and inspire others to be more than they
ever believed of themselves. Some of Kevin's favorite things were riding
his Harley, being the "amen" section at Church for the Harvest, boating with
his family and spending several time in the fields or out on the lake hunting
and fishing, playing racquetball or golf. Kevin was best known for always
making people laugh. He was a life coach, mentor, and friend to many.
Simply put, Kevin loved loving people. He is survived by his wife, Laurie;
his son, Tanner; daughter Keely and her husband, Tim; his siblings:
Kimberly Hines, '77, Patrick Gross, '83, Jeffrey Gross, '89, and Shawn
Gross, '92.
Mary Phelan Gross, '56
Mary died September 28, 2014, of
an apparent heart attack. As a little
girl, Mary was known as “Irish.”
She so loved her Irish heritage; to
say she was a proud Irishman would
truly be an understatement. Mary
was a proud “North Ender.”
Growing up she loved working in their family
owned Grocery Store, Summit Grocery. In 1958
she married the love of her life Cyril Thomas
Gross, '53. Mary could always be found and
heard at her kids and grand kids sporting events
often cheering out, “Get tough, Grossy!” She’d
never miss an opportunity to share or brag about
one of her grandchildren's accomplishments. She
passionately loved her church, St. Joseph
Cathedral. Often she would share fond memories
of the priests and nuns at the Cathedral. She is
survived by her children: Kimberly Hines, '77,
Kevin, '80, Patrick, '83, Jeffrey, '89, and Shawn
Gross, '92; 11 grandchildren and two great
grandchildren. She is also survived by one
brother: Richard Phelan, '60, and nieces,
nephews and cousins. She was preceded in death
by her husband, Tom; one brother Dennis, '54
and an infant sister Patricia.
Carmel Rose McIlvenna Gaspar, '49
Carmel died peacefully March 6, 2014 at the Doughtery Hospice House in
Sioux Falls. She graduated from Mt. Marty College. She married Harold
"Jake" Gaspar in 1950 and devoted her life to raising her 11 children and
many others through her 25 years of service at Volunteers of America daycare. Carmel enjoyed dancing, family gatherings, lunch with friends, playing
bingo, and a good game of rummy. She was proud of her Irish heritage and
lived a life of devoted faith. She is survived by her sons: David, Dan, Jim, John, Micha; her
daughters: Patty, Joanie, and Loretta; son-in-law: Mike; 20 grandchildren, 14 great grandchildren, (with two more expected in 2014); a brother: Jack McIlvenna; sisters: Sister Loretta McIlvenna O.P., '45, and Marie Nash, '53. She was preceded in death by her husband,
children: Don, Paul and Mary; siblings: Al, '56, Pat, '49, Mary Joan and Margaret.
John Joseph Morgan, '41
John died in October of 2012, according
to family members. He served in the US
Navy during WWII and was a salesman for
many years until his retirement. He and his
wife, Penney, had two daughters, two sons
and seven grandchildren. They lived in
Yorba Linda, CA.
Dennis James Kent, '49
Dennis died June 17, 2014 at
Good Samaritan Village in
Sioux Falls. Survivors include
his wife, Rita; children, Marie,
Mark, Barb, Jim, John; and
seven grandchildren.
Rosemary Lynch Ottmann, '52
Rosemary died July 19, 2014 of heart failure. After Cathedral, she obtained a BS degree at
St. Theresa's in Winona, MN, and an MBA from the University of Denver. She worked as
a market researcher for Pillsbury, General Mills and her own company, Ottmann Darling
Research, Inc. On November 26, 1975, she married William Ottmann in Taos, NM. She was
an avid reader who enjoyed traveling and spending time at their lake place on Lake Wabana.
She was a huge MN Vikings fan and enjoyed the fact that Bill had season tickets for many
years. Rosemary is survived by her husband, William; nieces and nephews, other relatives
and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents and her sister Jeanne Lynch Kelly, '56.
Tom Barron, '54
Tom died Sept. 25, 2014. After
Cathedral, Tom graduated from
St. John’s University in
Collegeville, MN with a bachelor
degree in philosophy in 1958.
After four years in the seminary at
St. John’s, he was ordained as a
priest for the diocese of Sioux Falls
by Bishop Lambert Hoch on May
27, 1962. He served as assistant
pastor in St. Agnes Catholic Church
in Vermillion and was appointed
pastor of Good Shepherd Catholic
Church in Centerville, South
Dakota. He resigned the ministry
and moved to Tempe, Arizona
where he graduated from Arizona
State University with a master’s in
counseling in 1974. He moved to
Salem, Oregon where he engaged
in counseling at Oregon State
Hospital, and later to Portland
where he took care of disabled
elderly. Tom died of lung cancer
one day after his 78th birthday
at Maryville Nursing Home in
Beaverton, Oregon. He is survived
by his sister Janet Pletka, '54 and
his brother-in-law, John. Tom
donated his body to Oregon Health
Sciences University.
15
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The Re-U-Knight-er
The Re-U-Knight-er is published by the O’Gorman-Cathedral
Alumni Association for all O’Gorman and Cathedral graduates
and their families. O’Gorman, which graduated its first class in
1962, is a private school founded in 1961. It is accredited by the
North Central Association and the State of South Dakota
Department of Education.
Editor: Carol Barnett Nesbitt, ‘80 Ph: (605) 575-3360
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to hear about you!
New job? Recently married? Earned a degree? We want to hear your
news and share it with your fellow CHS/O’G alumni!
Complete this form and send it to the Alumni Office,
Sioux Falls Catholic Schools, 3100 W. 41st St, Sioux Falls, SD, 57105;
or email your news to us at: [email protected]
Name (maiden and married, if applicable): Class:
Address:City:State: Zip:
Telephone:E-Mail:
Spouse:Children: Education after high school:
Employment: News about you: 
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Please print my update and include my mailing address and my e-mail address.
Please print my update but DON’T print my mailing address. You MAY list my e-mail address.
Please print my update but DON’T print my e-mail OR my mailing address.
I want to receive the Re-U-Knight-er via EMAIL instead of SNAIL MAIL. My email address is included above.