Crane Project Takes Flight - Messmer Catholic Schools

MESSMER
MESSMER TODAY
MESSMER HIGH SCHOOL, MESSMER PREPARATORY CATHOLIC SCHOOL, ST. ROSE & ST. LEO CATHOLIC URBAN ACADEMIES
Winter 2009
Crane Project
Takes Flight
Knowledge • Faith • Leadership

MESSMERTODAY
▼
Table of Contents
Cover: Peace Crane Project ......15
Athletic Hall of Fame Dinnert.....3
TeAngelo Cargile ’10 .................4
Catholic Knights ........................6
Ancient Order of Hibernians.......6
Students Helping Families..........7
School Sisters of
Notre Dame...........................8-9
Sports................................10-11
Assisi Pilgrimage .....................12
CG Schmidt/
Faith Technologies...................12
Auditorium Upgrades ..............13
Our Lady of Guadalupe ...........13
Coach Davies Retires ...............14
Messmer Day..........................14
Save Messmer Committee........15
Principal Lewis Lea ’92............16
Portraits in Leadership ............17
Alumni News......................18-19
Reunion Weekend...................19
The Spirit of Giving
Lives at Messmer
Dear Friends,
Every man shall give as he is able, according
to the blessing of the Lord thy God which He
hath given thee.
DEUTERONOMY 16:17
The act of giving selflessly is taught repeatedly in scriptures. Our students banded together on
many occasions these past few months to provide opportunities to other families, help our
community through volunteering and donations and share this spirit with others. It is amazing
to see the effect education, hard work and discipline has on over 1,400 children. Often, the
students took it upon themselves to coordinate and advocate for helping those in need. Some
examples of this include: volunteering at St. Ben’s Meal Program, collecting used clothing,
collecting money to buy household items for a student’s family whose house burnt down,
food drives for the House of Peace, working at Casa Maria, blood drives, Peace Projects, Recycling
initiatives and raising money for Cancer awareness just to name a few.
Volunteers give of their time regularly with tutoring for High School, Prep and St. Rose & St.
Leo students. These volunteers are not alumni and their sons and daughters didn’t attend
Messmer. They volunteer their time because it helps their community. When the aforementioned
student’s house burnt down, the volunteers bought Christmas presents for them.
“Every child deserves to open a present on Christmas Day,” a volunteer said. God bless them
for making this wish come true.
Saturday School gets recent graduates involved by having them tutor current students. This
academic support allows students to receive the help they need to succeed at Messmer. It also
allows graduates to “give back” their time and talents.
Of course, our parents, teachers and staff give endlessly in their time and dedication. Without
them, our students would not succeed in learning the valuable academic, social and lessons of
faith inherent in a Messmer education.
Our thanks go to you—our friends, our benefactors and our alumni for supporting this
valuable ministry. Messmer Catholic Schools have truly reflected the theme of Catholic
Schools Week – Celebrate Service.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF
David Delgado,
Richard Anderson,
Mike Tucker,
Jasmine Campbell,
MaryJo Walicki
With warm regards,
Br. Bob Smith, OFM Capuchin
President & CEO
Jeff Monday
Executive Vice President & Principal
2

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MESSMERTODAY
Athletic Hall of Fame Dinner
Sunday, March 22, 2009
Inductees: Ray Schneider ’35 (posthumous), Hub Maikowski ’36 (posthumous),
Fred Krema ’46, Ray Hudak ’46 (posthumous), Tom Orlando '60, Bill Blattnig '69,
Gary Krzycynski '70, Sal Collura '72, Sanjay Adell '96, and Jessica Fringer ‘98.
In addition, the athletes of the 30’s and 40’s will be honored with a special presentation.
Tickets: $20 per person – Cash Bar
Cocktails 5:00 pm • Dinner 6:00 pm
Serb Hall
5101 West Oklahoma Avenue
Please RSVP by March 9, 2009
Messmer High School Athletic Hall of Fame Dinner
Dinner Tickets Total Amount
$20/person ______ ____________
Name_______________________________________________________________ Class Year ________________
Address ________________________________________________________________________________________
City, State ZIP ___________________________________________________________________________________
Phone___________________________________Email __________________________________________________
Please return to Messmer Catholic Schools, c/o Development, 742 W. Capitol Drive, Milwaukee, WI 53206.
3

MESSMERTODAY
▼
My Messmer Experience
By TeAngelo Cargile, Jr. ‘10
Messmer has affected my life and who I am today. Before I
came to this family based environment at Messmer, I had a few
kinks I needed to work out. I came into Messmer as a boy with
anger, low confidence, some social skills, and not knowing who
I was as a person. When I was picked on, I used to have temper
tantrums thinking they would solve my problems. As the years
have passed, I have learned and realized that Messmer is more
than just a school – it is a learning environment beyond academics.
I have now bettered myself. I love to communicate
with all people. Also, I know my purpose in the world is to help
others and to give back to my community. Messmer has not
just taught me those things but an array of things that have
molded the man I am today.
I was raised in a very unique environment. I was raised by deaf
parents. My parents raised me in an environment of learning
as most children but with an added learning element of Sign
Language. My parents used to say I was learning sign language
before I was even speaking. This has had a great effect on who I
am today.
At a young age, I was put in a leadership role. I interpreted for
my parents since I was around seven years old. I was taking
business calls for my parents about things that I had no idea
about! I remember times when bill collectors would call and all
I would be doing is just relaying information. Who has to deal
with bills at the age of seven? However, I am very proud about
this aspect of my life. Without it, I would not have the leadership
skills and respect for other languages that I have now.
I take an active role at
Messmer in the ASSIST
program. It stands for
“Active Seniors Supporting
and Influencing
Students Transitioning.”
This program was
started by Mr. Bob
Monday, the Milwaukee
Bucks, and New Castle/East
Castle senior
homes. This program
enforces the power of
TeAngelo Cargile, Jr. and his parents.
networking, which has
greatly helped me give the right first impression the first time.
Also, it has helped my skills in being able to talk to people in
higher authority without showing nervousness and anxiety. I
remember the first time we had a meeting and we were thrown
right into the fire of networking. I met Desmond Mason (a
player recently traded from the Bucks) and it went so well that
I received his business card and a job from him in later weeks. I
know this program will keep on growing and flourishing in the
years ahead.
Now, my future is bright. I plan on giving back by healing others
and would like to go into the field of medicine and the interpretation
of sign language because of my wonderful
upbringing. As for the field of medicine, I remember the time
when my father was diagnosed with diabetes. The doctors there
were so helpful and informative in comforting my family.
I have been greatly blessed in my life. The Lord, hard work, and
dedication will take you somewhere in life and I know I am on
the right road to getting there. With all of your support, Messmer
students will keep on striving for their goals and beyond.
Prayer of Remembrance
In November, a prayer service was led by Richard Anderson ’92
that remembered those members of the Messmer family who
have passed away over the last year. Each year during the
month of November, Messmer students join Catholics around
the world to reflect on the Word of God and to remember
those who are no longer with us. It is at this time that Messmer
students honor and recall in a special way those alumni,
supporters and friends of Messmer who have passed away.
Messmer plans on continuing this tradition to honor those
who have supported Messmer by holding this special prayer
service each November.
Students and staff honor friends and alumni at prayer service.
4

CAPIT L DRIVE
8th Annual Golf Outing
Monday, June 15th, 2009
Reservation Form
▼
MESSMERTODAY
W287 N1963 Oakton Road
Pewaukee, WI
(Exit Interstate 94 West at Hwy. SS North)
(262) 691-0900
www.westernlakes.com
Shotgun Tee-Off – 11:45 am
(scramble format)
Dinner – 5:30 pm
(Dinner begins at 4:30 pm if raining)
All proceeds to benefit Messmer High School Athletics
Line up your foursomes today!
(singles and twosomes are also welcome)
Donation of $135 per person includes:
($45 tax deductible)
• Golf Fees with Cart & Gift
• Lunch & Dinner
• Locker Room Facilities Available
• Driving Range Opens – 10:00 am
• Prizes & Golf Awards
• Putting Contest
• Lunch Beginning at 10:00 am
• Beer and Soda on the Course
• Auction & Raffle
*We Need Donations of Auction &
Raffle Items
Dinner Sponsorship: $1,000
Lunch Sponsorship: $500
Hole Sponsorship $100
Rain or Shine!
Make checks payable to: Messmer High School
Mail to: Messmer High School c/o Development Office
742 W. Capitol Dr., Milwaukee, WI 53206 Phone: (414) 264-5440
Payment must accompany reservation form by 6/8/2009.
NO PAYMENTS WILL BE ACCEPTED ON DAY OF EVENT.
LIMITED TO THE FIRST 144 GOLFERS.
Name ___________________________________________________
Address _________________________________________________
City__________________________State______Zip ______________
Phone(s) _________________________________________________
Name ___________________________________________________
Address _________________________________________________
City__________________________State______Zip ______________
Phone(s) _________________________________________________
Name ___________________________________________________
Address _________________________________________________
City________________________State______Zip ________________
Phone(s) _________________________________________________
Name ___________________________________________________
Address _________________________________________________
City__________________________State______Zip ______________
Phone(s) _________________________________________________
INDICATE TYPE OF RESERVATION NEEDED:
❐ Golf and Dinner - $135.00 per person
❐ Dinner Only - $35.00 per person
❐ Unable to attend, but please find my enclosed tax-deductible
donation of $ ____________.
Name ___________________________________________________
Address _________________________________________________
City__________________________State______Zip ______________
Phone(s) _________________________________________________
5

MESSMERTODAY
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St. Rose and St. Leo Catholic Urban Academies News
Catholic Knights Reading Initiative
Bill O’Toole, president and CEO of Catholic Knights, celebrated
Catholic Schools Week at St. Rose and St. Leo Catholic
Urban Academies on January 29, 2009. O’Toole joined 4-yearold
kindergarten students in a special reading of The Giving
Tree by Shel Silverstein to honor the Catholic Schools Week
theme of “celebrating service.”
After the reading, O’Toole and volunteers from Catholic
Knights Branch 318 presented a donation to support the
Catholic Urban Academies’ school library. In addition,
Catholic Knights members helped students create their own
giving tree to show how they can serve their families and community.
Ken and Pat Tushaus have volunteered and read to
students and coordinated volunteers at Messmer Prep and the
Urban Academies.
The Catholic Urban Academies of St. Rose and St. Leo also celebrated
the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe with Catholic Knight
volunteers. Students held a prayer service, as well as receiving
cookies and prayer cards from Catholic Knight volunteers.
Catholic Knights is a not-for-profit Catholic membership organization
that provides financial and fraternal services that
strengthen families, parishes and communities. For more than
120 years, Catholic Knights have helped build better communities
through volunteer action. Each year, Catholic Knights
members help to raise more than $1 million in support of
parishes, schools and communities.
Catholic Knights President Bill O’Toole reads to Kindergarten students at
St. Rose & St. Leo Catholic Urban Academies.
Ancient Order of Hibernians annual fundraising dinner.
Ancient Order of Hibernians
William Ryan Drew Scholarship
This fall, the Catholic Urban Academies of St. Rose and St. Leo
hosted the William Ryan Drew Scholarship Dinner. The Ancient
Order of Hibernians holds this annual event at the St.
Rose Campus. The purpose of the spaghetti dinner and auction
is to model the Order’s motto of “Friendship, Unity and
Christian Charity.” The Ancient Order of Hibernians also
strives to provide hope and opportunity to those of every
background. With the funds raised from this dinner and auction,
the Milwaukee division of this organization provides
scholarships to families who attend parochial schools, including
the Catholic Urban Academies.
A number of students from St. Rose, St. Leo and Messmer
High School helped with preparations for the event. Their
duties ranged from set up, greeting guests, to helping the
kitchen staff with the preparing of the food. All who attended
were impressed by the politeness and efforts of the students
working that night. Many guests made a point of communicating
to Principal Lewis Lea how impressed they were with the
students.
The event was a huge success filled with enjoyment to benefit a
worthy cause. The Hibernians were able to raise thousands of
valuable dollars to make a difference in the Milwaukee community
through scholarships. Our thanks to the Ancient Order
of Hibernians for their commitment to urban youth.
6

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MESSMERTODAY
More Churches, Families Transferring
Holiday Spending to Poor
Printed with Permission of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
(www.jsonline.com)
By Annysa Johnson of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Isaiah Renfro, 8, happily carries Christmas packages on Monday.
Messmer High School tutors and a book club collected $1,500
worth of gifts for his family after a fire destroyed their home.
For as long as they can remember, Sue and the Rev. Mike De-
Long have exchanged Christmas gifts with the adults on her
side of the family.
Over the years, they've given or received every conceivable
variation of tool, sweater, shirt, candle, Christmas novelty and
home decoration. You name it, and they've wrapped or unwrapped
it around the holidays.
But this year, the DeLong and Lahm families have abandoned
that tradition to create a new, more meaningful one.
Moved by the crushing needs of the poor here and around the
world, and their own hunger to make Christmas more spiritual,
they pooled their $250 and perused a less conventional
Christmas catalog from the Christian relief organization
World Vision.
From it, they've chosen to give a goat and four chickens to a
family in the Third World; part of a well to pump clean water
into a village where there is none; and clothing, blankets and
other essentials for children in their own country.
"We live in a land of excess; we have so much of everything.
And there are those who don't have enough," said Sue DeLong,
whose Brookfield family will celebrate today, with Christians
around the world, the birth of the Christ child in a manger in
Bethlehem.
"It just seemed like we should be able to help," said DeLong,
whose husband is the pastor at Milwaukee Evangelical
Covenant Church, at 7727 W. Center St. "If everyone did a little
bit, it would make such a big difference."
That philosophy is behind the growing popularity of such organizations
as Alternatives for Simple Living and Advent Conspiracy,
which encourage people of faith to give more
spiritually: to give of their time or companionship, and to buy
for those with true needs, not just wants.
"It's giving people permission to do what they've wanted for so
long... to step out of the craziness of the Christmas season and
engage their loved ones in the worship of the season," said
Jeanne McKinley, director of the Portland, Ore.-based Advent
Conspiracy, which has tracked more than $3 million in giving,
much of that for clean water initiatives around the world, since
it started in 2006.
A number of Wisconsin churches have joined in, including
Blackhawk Church in Madison, which raised $140,000, most of
that to build clean water wells in Peru, on a single Sunday in
December.
"We challenged everyone to buy one less gift," said Nancy Lindroth,
Blackhawk's director of team development.
"The generosity astounded us. Like everyone else, we have people
who are losing their jobs or struggling economically," she said.
It is the economy, with its heart-wrenching and endless tales of
lost jobs and home foreclosures, that has caused many to reevaluate
their giving this Christmas.
"The need has always been there, but it's now in sharp focus,"
said the Rev. Debra Trakel, whose parishioners at St. James
Episcopal Church in downtown Milwaukee raised $1,200 - in
addition to their ongoing work to feed and clothe the poor - to
keep a family from being evicted before Christmas.
Jeff Monday and students deliver gifts.
Stories of generosity abound.
PHOTO BY MARYJO WALICKI
At Messmer High School, where sophomore Crystal Robinson's
family lost its home in a fire, fellow students, faculty, volunteers
and their families and friends made sure that, after
they moved into their new house, they had plenty of groceries,
money for bills and an abundance of Christmas gifts - all elegantly
wrapped and ribboned - to open on Christmas morning.
At All Saints Catholic Church near N. 25th St. and W. Capitol
Drive, this year's holiday meal and party for those in need
nearly doubled in size to 300, with many of the newcomers its
own members who have fallen on hard times.
"So, the few that still have something, instead of taking one
star off the (giving) tree, they're taking 10, to give to their
fellow parishioners," said Debbie Timko, who coordinated
the program.
7

MESSMERTODAY
▼
Our Beloved Sisters…In Gratitude for 175 Years of Service
Since the founding of
Messmer High School in
1926, the School Sisters of
Notre Dame have been a
vital part of the success of
Messmer. It is with great
honor we thank the
School Sisters of Notre
Dame for their 175 years
of service.
The following information
is reprinted with permission
by the School
Sisters of Notre Dame
and can be found at
www.ssnd-milw.org.
Their mission is to proclaim the good news as School Sisters of
Notre Dame (SSND), directing their entire lives toward that
oneness for which Jesus Christ was sent.
1920-1930
Sr. Mary Dominic Cunningham*
Sr. Seraphia Maline*
Sr. Angels King*
Sr. Hildeberta Weigl*
Sr. Fidelis Krieter*
Sr. Frances Jerome Uriell*
Sr. Everildis Duschak*
Sr. Juliana Schroeder*
Sr. Mary Basil Roeser*
Sr. Fortunata Scobey*
Sr. Ignatia Kaczmarek
Sr. Austin Schmidt*
Sr. Brunonis Vermeulen*
Sr. Mary Ellen Lonergan*
Sr. Emma Kostock*
Sr. Synesia Sobota*
1930-1940
Sr. Juliana Schroeder*
Sr. Alphonse Gauer*
Sr. Brunonis Vermeulen*
Sr. Joanne Szuba*
Sr. Timona Zimmerman*
Sr. Coelestia Doetsch*
Sr. Donalda Goede*
Sr. Camille Foxgrover*
Sr. Alonzo Wilms*
Sr. Angelus Gobat*
Sr. Nicolina Martin*
Sr. Marquerite Robers*
Sr. Gabriel Haefner*
Sr. Ildephonse Rowland*
Sr. Immauel Baune*
Sr. Cornelius Harper*
Sr. John Baetz*
Sr. Magdala Kindley*
Sr. Adelle Carrigan
Sr. Mary Blaszczyk-(Frances Romana)*
Sr. Jerome Mulcahy*
Sr. Thaddea Ligman*
Sr. Clarona Cullen*
Sr. Valerie Schneider*
Sr. Gonzaga Fettig*
Sr. Lauretta Bishop*
Sr. Godfrey Hubar*
Sr. Edista Kollas*
Sr. Perpetua Pastors*
Sr. Adele Trudell*
Sr. Jeannine Rosemeier*
Sr. Norman Bauer*
Sr. Gerard Majella Sieben*
Sr. Colman Coleman*
Sr. Albertus Wilhlems*
Sr. Charlotte Jung*
Sr. Laura Perkl*
Sr. Celine Diedrich*
Sr. Clements Abel*
Sr. Alfrieda Wallschlaeger*
Sr. Livonia Machut*
Sr. Josepha Dietrich*
Sr. Evidia Cichowicz
Sr. Alacoque Gallagher*
Sr. Celine Diedrich*
Sr. Electa Weins*
The School Sisters’ ministry is directed toward education. For
them that means enabling persons to reach the fullness of their
potential as individuals created in God's image and assisting
them to direct their gifts toward building the earth.
Committed to this goal, the School Sisters respond to varying
needs of church and world through a diversity of ministries.
They strive to live and work in ways that reflect and promote
the values Christ lived and taught.
The School Sisters of Notre Dame’s common heritage and
charism, their community life and mission promote and
strengthen the unity which binds the Sisters—across nations
and cultures–to Christ, to one another and to the people to
whom they are sent.
Today the Milwaukee province, with its 480 professed sisters
and almost 50 associates, is part of the International Congregation
of the School Sisters of Notre Dame headquartered in
Rome. More than 4,000 sisters—members of 20 provinces, two
regions, and two districts—minister in 35 countries.
Sr. Chrysostom Brown*
Sr. Amica Rech*
Sr. Eileen Garvey*
Sr. Patricia Pihringer*
1940-1950
Sr. Patricia Pihringer*
Sr. Perfecta Trawtschold*
Sr. Noillis Frankowska*
Sr. Ferdinells Hornick*
Sr. Tilda Gesell*
Sr. Austine Schmidt*
Sr. Magdalese Oeniczak
Sr. Imeld McGurk*
Sr. Gervasia Kavzmarek*
Sr. Monica Scheffer*
Sr. Cupertino Stark*
Sr. Genevieve Mehren*
Sr. Bernadette Hoeffler*
Sr. Leocadia Radykowska*
Sr. Wallburgis Zimmer*
Sr. Liliosa Hennecke*
Sr. Vincent McKinnon*
Sr. Julianne Sobisch*
Sr. Huberta Vermeulen*
Sr. Ernestine Skalitsky*
Sr. Madeleine Sophie Flammang
Sr. John Ignace Kuzniewski*
Sr. Enrico Frisch*
Sr. Boniface Schmitt*
Sr. Seraphica Quinn*
Sr. Servanda Gagliano*
Sr. Catherine Amante*
Sr. Nobilis Frankowska*
Sr. Tichonia Pisarek*
Sr. Theola Pieniazek*
Sr. Giovanna Hoffmann*
Sr. Clementa Abel*
Sr. Florence Jung*
Sr. Liberina Hinderks*
Sr. Ludovica Ripplinger*
Sr. M. DePazzi Delaney*
Sr. Sennen Bresina*
Sr. Odona Crosswaite*
Sr. Clarona Cullen*
Sr. Thaddea Ligman*
Sr. Angelus Gobot*
Sr. Herman Bauer*
Sr. Ignatia Kaczmarek*
Sr. Leocadia Radykowska*
Sr. Landuine Kramasz
Sr. Thomasine Patterson*
Sr. Bernardo Lippert*
Sr. Fortunata Scobey*
Sr. Rozalia Motyka*
Sr. Innocence Baudler*
Sr. Richard Gnagi*
Sr. Matthias Olk*
Sr. Ferdinella Hornick*
Sr. Ethelred Hartman*
Sr. Lawrence Schemensky*
Sr. Marella Ley*
Sr. Henrietta Cull*
Sr. Simonella Frost*
Sr. Valeria Schneider*
Sr. Verola Janatta*
Sr. Justina Drexler*
8

Sr. Rita Rose Krud*
Sr. Caroline Marie Sloan*
Sr. Ludmilla Olovich*
Sr. Sarah Goldbach
Sr. Rosalia Wensted*
Sr. Veronita Haase*
Sr. Anaclere Marenda*
Sr. Charlotte Jung*
Sr. Andrew Rauwolf
Sr. Rubena Derge*
Sr. Marella Ley*
Sr. Lois Rotar
Sr. Callida Lukaszewicz*
Sr. Theogene Powers*
Sr. Jeanne d'Arc Herberger*
Sr. Solina langhals*
Sr. Alix Doucette*
Sr. DeLourdes Urban*
Sr. Edgat Duffy*
Sr. Medarde Nontelle*
Sr. Aventine Nagy*
Sr. Dominic Mackesey*
Sr. Barbara Droski
Sr. Diane Marie Kozal**
Sr. Egwin McAdams*
Sr. Marion Sullivan*
Sr. Aquino Besendorfer*
Sr. Stephanie Jankowski*
Sr. Martana Hellgoth*
Sr. Maynard Rhodes*
Sr. Eloise Heintzman*
Sr. Mona Wilkinson (Catherine)
Sr. Rosine Polanski*
Sr. Anaclete Marenda*
Sr. Theota Eversmann*
Sr. Fridegarda Herr*
Sr. Bernedette Rheude
Sr. George Gentile(Rose)
Sr. Ambrose Larson*
Sr. Richard Gnagi*
Sr. Joan Therese Webe*
Sr. Sarah Goldbach
Sr. Lawrence Schemensky*
Sr. Charlette Josten*
Sr. Crescence Fuchs*
Sr. Innocentia Burkard*
Sr. Eugenia McCarthy *
Sr. Petrine Wanke*
Sr. Conchita Amante*
Sr. Urban Urban*
Sr. Roberta Bauer*
Sr. Iphigenia Cieslukowska*
Sr. Dolorita Siersynski
Sr. Clarence Schwartz*
Sr. Ambrosine Couture*
Sr. Petrann Oprsal**
Sr. Terese Meiling**
Sr. Catherine Kramschuster*
Sr. Maxelinda Ballering*
Sr. Noraleen Retinger*
Sr. Eric Militzer
Sr. Martin de Porres Colbert
Sr. Erna Dorsch (Margaret)
Sr. Madeleva Postl*
Sr. Harriet Marie Hildebrand*
Sr. Ara Coeli Stoll*
Sr. Michael Frommell
Sr. Maura Pawelski
Sr. Mechtilde Vilker*
Sr. Mhuire McLaughlin
Sr. Joanette Czarnecki (Lucille)
Sr. Robert Marie Elsen (Margaret)
Sr. Michael
Sr. Deborah Ann Smith**
Sr. Paul Michael Mackesey**
Sr. Ancilla Marie Pfannerstill**
Sr. Aquin Haasch**
Sr. George Gentile-Chicago
Sr. Verena Auchter*
Sr. John Ann Zettelmeier
Sr. Magdalen Willems (Christyn)
1950-1960
Sr. Adelaide Pfeffer*
Sr. Rosalia Wensted*
Sr. Anthony Mary Retinger*
Sr. Praxedes Skalitsky*
Sr. Innocence Baudler*
Sr. Verola Janatta*
Sr. Janet De France
Sr. Alcantara Jordan*
Sr. Dorine Troik*
Sr. Cunugundis Stud*
Sr. Frances Therese Jungwirth
Sr. Consuela Schumann*
Sr. Evelyn Youritz*
Sr. Barbara Droski
Sr. Daniel Sweeney*
Sr. Salvator Tocco*
Sr. Mona Wilkinson(Catherine)
Sr. Eileen Garvey*
Sr. Henrita Ecker*
Sr. Innocence Baudler*
Sr. John Dominic Blong
Sr. Rozalia Motyka*
Sr. Evangeline Mayer(Anne)
Sr. Charitas Krieter*
Sr. Joanne Garrity*
Sr. Petrann Oprsal*
Sr. Evelyn Youritz*
Sr. Robert Marie Elsen(Margaret)
Sr. Genevieve Mehren*
Sr. Berardo Bocian*
Sr. Berine Mangold*
Sr. Delicia Smalling*
Sr. Cecil Rickert
Sr. Rosemarie Esdepsky
Sr. Angelo Weber*
Sr. Ann Clare Fox
Sr. Josepha Maria Van Hulst
(Kathryn)
Sr. Donna Griesbach*
Sr. Marquerite Robers*
Sr. Erna Dorsch (Margaret)
Sr. Gilbertine Loeser*
Sr. Servanda Gagliano*
Sr. Mechtilde Vilker*
Sr. Leone Bartnicka*
Sr. Aquina Curtin (Naomi)
Sr. John Cecile Penzenstadler(Joan)
Sr. Ann Russell Doyle**
Sr. Ruth Maureen McDermott**
Sr. Benedict Woyach (Christine
Maria)
Sr. Jane Mary Lorbiecki
Sr. Linda Marie Steele*
Sr. Kathryn Van Hulst (Jospha
Marie)
1960-1980
Sr. Thomas Marie Van Beek (Joan
Marie)
Sr. Veronica Jean Lipke**
Sr. Mary Roman Obermski
Sr. Marian Blong
Sr. Faustine Byrne*
Sr. Catherine Precourt**
Sr. Alanna Cooney*
Sr. Noraleen Retinger*
Sr. Lucille Czarnecki
Se. Cecil Rickert
Sr. Bertille Fieber
Sr. Nina Ruth Smalling (Adelicia)*
Sr. Ara Coeli Stoll*
Sr. Judee Turke*
Sr. Mary Weber**
Sr. Randal Holt**
Sr. Jane Mary Lorbiecki
Sr. Mary Ann Novascone**
Sr. Joan Penzenstadler
Sr. Alice Roepke
Sr. Georgene Gauthier**
Sr. Martha Jean Sayklly
Sr. Nina Ruth Smalling
▼
MESSMERTODAY
Sr. Joanne Hollatz**
Sr. Veronica Jean Lipke**
Sr. Adelma Luczywko*
Sr. Judiann Hensen**
Sr. Lorenzo Schuster
Sr. Norma Larson*
Sr. Conrad Marie Witkowski
Sr. Catherine Ann Yekenevicz**
Sr. Adelma Luczywko*
Sr. Margaret Dorsch
Sr. Marella Ley*
Sr. Dianne Marie Engelhart
Sr. Eileen Ennis
Sr. Cecilia Stippich*
Sr. Donna Griesbach*
Sr. Kathryn Van Hulst
Sr. Vincetta Vilker
Sr. Mary Thomas Zagorski**
Sr. Laurel Ann Becker**
Sr. Karen Moore
Sr. Anne Francis Probst
Sr. Martha Jean Solms
Sr. Margaret Mary Janke
Sr. Julius Larson *
Sr. Joyce Merten
Sr. Catherine Wilkinson
Sr. Rosario Schackmuth
Sr. Lois Rotar
Sr. Helen Siwicki
Sr. Teresa Mahony
Sr. Donna Marie Gehl**
Sr. Miriam Therese Gill
Sr. Marie Therese Nowakowski
Sr. Madeline Holachek
Sr. Mary Joyce Merten
Sr. Joan Marie Van Beek
• Deceased
**Left Order
You Can Make A Difference!
Messmer must raise
over $1,500,000 to
subsidize the cost of educating
over 1,400 students.
If you have not
made a donation to the
Annual Fund this year,
consider a gift today by
completing the envelope
enclosed in this issue of
Messmer Today.
To learn more about
ways you can become involved at Messmer, including
planned gifts, annual scholarships, volunteering and
mentoring, please contact the Development Office at
development@messmerschools.org or (414) 264-5440.
9

MESSMERTODAY
▼
SPORTS
PAGE
Soccer
The Messmer Soccer Team had a good core
group of returning players led by captains
Gerardo Saavedra, Juan Chairez and Melvin
Coulter. This was the team’s second year playing a
full varsity schedule in the Midwest Classic Conference, which
in the past has provided great competition. The squad was
plagued by injuries early in the season, but some of the team’s
new recruits and freshman really stepped up to help the team.
It has been exciting to see these young men develop into very
competitive soccer players.
Cross Country
This fall the 2008 Messmer Cross Country Team continued on
a path of improvement. The team’s fastest member, sophomore
Andy Forti, consistently finished near the top of the
standings at every meet. Other top runners were Nate Nelson
and Marlon Smith, who both ran sub-twenty minute events for
the first time this past season. Our team also included four
very hard-working freshmen runners. The future looks bright
for Messmer Cross Country.
Volleyball
This season, the Lady Bishops
finished with a 6-14 record.
This record earned them a
3rd place seed and home
court advantage for the first
time in regional play. Key
players this season included
senior Dasia Harmon who
led the team in blocks and
kills. Junior setter, Asia
Jackson led the team in assists and aces. Both received All-
Conference nominations. We look forward to an experienced
line-up for next season.
Referees and other coaches commented about how far the
Messmer Soccer program has come in the last few years.
Messmer always had a tradition of good athletes, but now is
starting a tradition of not only having good athletes but good
soccer players. The conference awarded two of the players,
Gerardo Saavedra and Juan Chairez First Team All-Conference
honors, and also recognized A.J. Anderson with honorable
mention. The conference also selects one player as “Player of
the Year,” and this year they chose Gerardo Saavedra. This was
an incredible honor for Gerardo, as well as the program. The
Midwest Classic Conference is the largest athletic conference in
the state of Wisconsin.
Football
The Shorewood/Messmer
Football Team had a final
record of 6-3. There were a
number of great kids on the
team representing both
schools. Players continue to
learn and understand the commitment
necessary during the
off season to build a successful
program.
This was also a year of transition for the team as a new football
field was put in at Shorewood. The field is beautiful. In the
near future, the co-op program hopes to join the Midwest
Classic Conference for football, the conference that all other
Messmer sports teams compete in.
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MESSMERTODAY
Basketball
The boys’ varsity
basketball
team is under
the new leadership
of Coach
Jim Datka. Paul
Noack, a legend
in Wisconsin
High School
basketball, is director
of operations
for boys and girls basketball. To date, the varsity team has
doubled their win total from all of last season. Leading the
way for the Bishops this season are a pair of seniors, Martin
Childs and Deon Wright. Both are having outstanding seasons
and are leading the team in scoring and rebounding. The Bishops
currently start five seniors and look forward to continuing
their improvement throughout the season. The JV and Freshmen
squads are also off to good starts.
The Lady Bishops are starting the season with three returning
starters from the 2007-2008 season. Senior Thomasha Ivy-Patterson,
Sophomore Chante Hollished and Senior BreShuanda
Jones lead the team each night. The Bishops hope to improve
their record and move to the top three teams in the conference.
The team continues growing and learning with each game and
once their potential is reached, they will be hard to contend
with.
The 5th and 6th grade girls, team is off to a good start. They
are 3-2 on the season with four games to play. This team has a
lot of leaders and show they can be a great team if they stick
with basketball in the future.
The 7th and 8th grade boys’ team is off to a good start with a
4-2 record. This team has a great amount of talent and can do
something special in basketball if they all stick together and
progress the way they have. A majority of the team are 7th
graders and have a lot of time to progress with their skills
before high school.
The 7th and 8th grade girls’ team have a 3-3 record with 3
games to play. This team has a lot of talent that just needs to
build chemistry before they take off. Playing together in the
future will help build this team and make them become great
contenders. Most of the members of this team are playing together
for the first time and the more they adjust to one another,
the brighter their basketball futures are.
Catholic Urban Academies
The Catholic Urban Academies started the
2008-09 school year with two exciting new
opportunities—football and girls’ volleyball.
St. Rose and St. Leo look forward to
taking full advantage of these opportunities
in the years to come.
Messmer Prep
The Messmer Prep basketball program has
been learning a lot and showing great
progress as the basketball season continues.
The school boasts five total basketball
teams. Two 5th and 6th grade boys’ teams,
along with a 5th and 6th grade girls’ team
and 7th and 8th grade girls’ and boys’ team.
The 5th and 6th grade boys’ A team is off to a 3-3 start with
three games to play and our 5th and 6th grade boys’ B team
has a 1-4 record with four games to play. Both teams are very
young with a majority of the players being 5th graders and
playing against mostly 6th grade competition. Many of the
players are also playing organized basketball for the first time
in their lives.
This season, three teams participated in the Notre Dame-Don
Bosco Basketball League. The 5th and 6th grade boys’ and
girls’ teams started their seasons off well with a few wins but
have faced some adversity with losses in recent games. They
continue to work hard to improve their understanding of the
commitment and dedication it takes so that they will be able to
win on a consistent basis. The 7th and 8th grade boys’ team
started the season with a number of wins in both tournament
and league play. They have bonded together as a team with
strong parental support. The boys are defending Padre Sierra
Tournament champions – the largest in the state of Wisconsin.
11

MESSMERTODAY
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Assisi Pilgrimage Develops Faith
Messmer students at St. Peter’s Basilica.
Twenty-one students returned from their pilgrimage to Italy
earlier this month with a deep, profound and enriched experience
of how interconnected we are as a world through the
grace and love of God. There were many moving experiences
and graced moments for all of the participating students.
The students walked to La Rocca Maggiore, an ancient fortress
and castle used during the times of St. Francis and St. Clare. It
was the seat of imperial power for the Holy Roman Empire in
the area of Assisi and the Umbrian Plain. The students led a
prayer service for peace and discussed the need for peace from
our neighborhoods and schools to the mountains in
Afghanistan to the people of Darfur.
Below are some of the journal reflections from the students
after visiting and praying at La Rocca Maggiore.
“Violence in our world is as great today as it was in the time of
St. Francis. Francis was different from most of us today. Most of
the world today turns a blind eye on the violence before them
unless it impacts them or their family directly. The lesson of
Francis and Clare addressed the issues before them often not because
it directly impacted them but because they saw the presence
of Christ in all people. Lord, give me the vision to see your
presence in those around and grant me the courage to speak out
to end the violence that surrounds my life.”
“My graced moment today happened at La Rocca. Today we
talked about peace in our world and prayed for an end to violence.
As a group we discussed the violence that is happening in
the world. We talked about some of the violence that occurs in
our neighborhoods. We came to the conclusion that it is our responsibility
to return to Milwaukee and tell everyone about our
experience. As Francis is credited with saying, ‘We must use
words only when necessary.’ We need to display our commitment
to peace through our actions.”
“The climb to La Rocca was steep. Near the top a few of the students
needed to rest. Following our prayer service for a world at
peace, we engaged in a great conversation on how will we
change the world, how can we make it better, how can we change
ourselves to become better people. Imperfect and sinful as we
are, I hope we can change. I hope we can become better. I want
to become better, but how? How?”
“The world is becoming a better place to me. The peace of this
place is uplifting and aches my heart. My heart has been down
for so long it hurts bringing it to God. “
Messmer’s partners, C.G.
Schmidt Construction and
Faith Technologies, renewed
their support of two Messmer
students and extended
their generosity to four additional
Messmer students.
Seniors Bruce Denson and
Juan Munoz, juniors Jeffrey
Cross, Albert McFallin, and
Ramon Cordoba and sophomores
Markesha Harris and Crystal Marmolejo were
awarded C.G. Schmidt and Faith Technologies Scholarships.
These students joined graduates, Brad Hopgood ’05 (attending
Construction, Architecture, Engineering
University of Wisconsin—
Milwaukee), Melvin McElrath
’07 (attending
Marquette University), and
Maya Bates Muhammad
’08 (attending the Milwaukee
School of Engineering).
The program
provides students with
mentors, a working knowledge
of construction and
electrical trades, internships and financial support for college
in the hopes that these students pursue a career in the fields of
construction, architecture or engineering.
CG Schmidt President Richard Schmidt, Jr. and Faith Technologies Vice President
Jim Schlater with scholarship recipients.
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MESSMERTODAY
Lakeview Grant: Messmer Auditorium
The auditorium is used twice a week for all-school prayer services.
It also accommodates numerous school-wide assemblies,
Masses, annual plays/musicals, speakers, teacher training seminars,
daily music ensemble classes, reunion Masses and plays.
Video and audio have become an increasingly valuable
medium for disseminating information. For this reason, access
points have been added backstage and in the sound booth for
video and audio to be streamed seamlessly. In addition, a new
projector has been installed in the ceiling for video presentations.
This capability will allow presenters to use resources like
the Internet, video and slideshows easily. Audio needs were
also addressed with speakers added throughout the auditorium
to upgrade sound quality and volume.
Messmer High School Auditorium adds audio and visual equipment.
Messmer High School’s auditorium has been a centerpiece of
the building since its opening in 1929. Over the decades the auditorium
has held graduations, Masses and many other landmark
events. For many of our alumni, the auditorium holds a
special place in their hearts. And now, thanks to a grant from
the Lakeview Foundation, Messmer has been able to upgrade
its auditorium for the 21st century.
Feast of Our Lady
of Guadalupe
On December 12, Messmer High
School students joined others in the
Roman Catholic Church in commemorating
the Feast of Our Lady of
Guadalupe. Over 50 students joined Fr.
Paul Kelly and the Messmer Choir in
celebrating Mass at St. Martin de Porres
Church, offered in both English and
Spanish. The Mass, which honors the
Patroness of the Americas, was followed
by a reception where students of various ethnic backgrounds
enjoyed conversation and traditional Mexican fare of
tamales, pan dulce (sweet bread), and Mexican hot chocolate.
In 1531, miracles began to happen in Mexico when the Virgin
Mary appeared to an indigenous person. Mary appeared to
Plays and musicals have been a long-standing tradition at
Messmer with productions such as Annie, The Wiz and Godspell
in recent years. For this reason, and for daily use also, a direct
communication intercom was installed to synchronize
cues during shows regarding lights, curtains and multi-media
needs since many of moments are timed. Also, a dressing
room was added to facilitate costuming.
In addition to these large-scale projects, other repair projects
were undertaken to maintain the current auditorium facilities.
This included repairing the stage curtain, repairing theatrical
lights, replacing work lights and rebuilding the sound booth.
Our thanks to the Lakeview Foundation for facilitating these
projects.
Juan Diego not as a European
madonna but as a
beautiful Aztec princess
speaking to him in his
own Nahuatl language.
This apparition was followed
by the sign of the
roses, the miraculous healing
of a deadly illness to
Juan Diego’s uncle, and
the Virgin’s beautiful
image appearing on Juan's
mantle convincing the native
people to be baptized
as Christians.
This story and feast remain important to many Mexicans and
those of Mexican decent, and it is especially revered by the increasing
number of Latinos and their families that are now
served by Messmer Catholic Schools.
13

MESSMERTODAY
▼
Coach, Teacher, Alum Ron Davies ’60 Retires as Messmer Football Head Coach
Ron Davies joined the Messmer family in
1956. After graduating from St. Norbert’s
College, Ron returned to Messmer as an Assistant
Football Coach through the Archdiocese
of Milwaukee. He stayed two years
and went back to college to obtain his Master's
in Education. Then, in 1972, he took a
job at Kenosha Tremper where he led the
Trojans to three WIAA Division I State
Championships and two runner-up finishes.
His record also includes seven playoff
appearances, seven conference championships,
and five undefeated regular seasons.
To say he was successful is an
understatement.
In 1980, he received the Football Coach of
the Year award from the UPI, WHSFCA and
the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. He would
again earn the Coach the Year award from
the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel in 1991.
Ron retired from Kenosha Tremper in 2001.
But retirement was not in the cards. "I received
a phone call from my friend Peter
Salza '60," Ron recalls. Salza explained to
Ron that Messmer was ressurecting its football
team and combining it with Shorewood
Coach Ron Davies ’60.
High School. It was the first private-public
school venture of its kind in the nation.
"It was difficult," says Ron. Although the
numbers were low, he focused on having
dedicated players. Ron is known for high expectations
and being able to form teams
based on hard work, friendship and spirit.
Ron sums up his strategy as follows, “Kids
understand expectations.”
This year, the Messmer-Shorewood football
team achieved a 6-3 record.
Ron has worked to build the football team
from the ground up.
Principal Jeff Monday described Ron as,
“An alum whose dedication never ends.”
“He has given so much to Messmer
throughout his life,” continued Monday.
In reflecting on Messmer, Ron says, “The
impact you can have on kids is the reason I
came back. Every kid can be successful at
life.”
“His life shows what Messmer truly does
and is,” said President Brother Bob Smith.
Messmer Day at MU
Messmer’s academic affiliation with
Marquette University continued this
past fall with high school students taking
part in a day long tour of Marquette
University. This marked the
second time that Marquette organized
“Messmer Day” on their campus to introduce
students to the many attributes
that the campus has to offer
students after their time at Messmer
has come to an end.
Greg Borowski, political reporter for the Milwaukee Journal
Sentinel, is a Messmer High School and Marquette University
alumnus and has been one of the primary forces getting this
special day off the ground. With Greg’s help and input, Marquette
has instituted programs such as the Urban Journalism
Workshop, which gives high school students a chance to learn
more about the field of communications and advance their
writing skills before they graduate with month long internship
at local newspapers. The program also involves sessions at the
Marquette Tribune to assist the Messmer’s journalism students
in editing, producing and improving their articles for the
Messmer Foursquare.
In addition, this year an exciting new opportunity was extended
to include the Marquette School of Engineering. During
sessions with professors from the School of Engineering,
students learned about many exciting opportunities in the
fields of Science, Technology and Math. The classes ended with
Messmer students using their new skills to build Lego Robots
to perform specific functions.
At the end of Marquette Day, recent graduates of Messmer
who now attend Marquette University spoke with the current
Messmer students about their experience in college and the
admissions process.
14

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MESSMERTODAY
Peace Crane Project Takes Flight
Students at Messmer Catholic Schools constructed thousands
of origami paper cranes to build peace awareness in our community
and around the world. Their efforts are part of the
Peace Crane Project that commemorates the 50th anniversary
of the bombing of Hiroshima and the famous story of Sadako
Sasaki.
Origami
cranes became
famous
around the
world through
the story of
Sadako Sasaki,
a young Japanese
girl who
was two years old at the time of the bombing. As a result of the
bombing she was later diagnosed with leukemia. According to
Japanese legend, anyone who folds 1,000 cranes will be granted
a wish. Sadako wished to get well and folded over 600 cranes
before she died at the young age of twelve years old.
To honor Sadako, her friends completed the remaining cranes.
They raised money to build a monument in her honor and as a
prayer for peace in the world. Their monument stands in Hiroshima
Peace Park in Japan. Every year, children from all over
the world fold origami cranes to send to Sadako’s monument.
Sadako’s story and the monument have become a symbol of
peace
throughout
the world.
Inspired by
this story,
Messmer
students also
made their
cranes as a
symbol of
their commitment to peace in our community and in the
world. Their hard work is beautifully displayed at Messmer
High School. The display, like the statue of Sadako in
Hiroshima Peace Park, is a monument and prayer for peace
in the world. This spring, the Messmer cranes will be sent to
Hiroshima Peace Park in Japan.
Origami Peace Cranes hang in Messmer Commons.
Save Messmer Committee
On October 16, 2008, members of the Save Messmer Committee
and their families returned to Messmer High School to
award this year’s Save Messmer Committee Founders’ Scholarship.
The ceremony took place after a very special prayer service
during which Committee Member, Mary Anne
Borowski-Lutz and her son, Greg Borowski, offered their reflections
on the Save Messmer Committee and the turbulent
times Messmer went through in the 1980s. This scholarship
provides four deserving students and their families with financial
assistance for their high school tuition and particularly
recognizes those students who best model the spirit and
dreams of the Save Messmer Committee. This year’s awardees
were Seniors LaGina Mitchell, Ashley Sartin and Sidney Walls,
and Junior Jeff Cross.
Save Messmer Committee and scholarship recipients.
15

MESSMERTODAY
▼
Lewis Lea ’92 Named Principal
This past summer, another familiar
face returned home to
the Messmer Family as Mr.
Lewis Lea was named Principal
of St. Rose Catholic Urban
Academy and St. Leo Catholic
Urban Academy. Lewis is a
member of Messmer High
School’s class of 1992. After
graduating and earning a
scholarship from the Lorelei
Foundation (founded by
Steve and Lori Reitman),
Lewis went on to attend and
graduate from the University
of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, where he earned a Bachelor’s Degree
in Education.
Besides his work in the classroom, Lewis balanced his studies
with extra-curricular activities. Lewis was a member of the
school’s soccer, basketball and baseball teams. He was a member
of the World Cultures Club and also found time to serve
on Student Council. He was a leader in and out of the classroom.
Today, Lewis balances his work as principal, with a personal
life that includes his wife Marcie (who he met at UWM)
and his two sons, Lewis and Maurice. Even with all this he
finds time to enjoy his hobbies of autograph collecting, softball,
bowling and karate, and his love of coaching. Lewis has
served and continues to serve as a coach of both boys and most
recently girls basketball teams.
Lewis takes great pride in his family and in his work as a
teacher and administrator. He has been especially happy to see
the strides the faculty, staff and students of the Catholic Urban
Academies have made incorporating the “Messmer Way.”
Lewis envisions soon all four campuses functioning as one
unit. Furthermore, Lewis believes that Messmer has and will
continue to serve as the example of a quality school for the city
and state. “St. Rose and St. Leo offer hope and a light in a community
that often finds itself in darkness,” says Lea. “This is
what makes Rose & Leo special and keeps students coming to
our doors,” Lewis continued. “I’m glad to be home.”
Since graduating from Messmer, Lewis taught for eight years at
Siefert Elementary School in Milwaukee and also served as an
Assistant Principal at McDowell Montessori for two years. He
credits much of his current success to the values he learned
here at Messmer.
Lewis and his parents chose Messmer High School because of
its close proximity (he grew up on 40th and Capitol), but
mostly because it allowed him to continue in his rich Catholic
upbringing. He recalls many fond memories of his time here
at Messmer including winning the State Championship in basketball
in 1989. But his fondest memories are of his favorite
teachers Mr. Monday, Ms. Mathay, and Ms. Veith. As a student,
Lewis had to work hard in the classroom. Lewis credits his
teachers with giving him a strong work ethic. “They went out
of their way to make sure I took care of my business in the
classroom, even pulling me from basketball practice if
needed!” Lea recalled. Lewis’s sister, Tangela, and brother,
Tryson, also attended and graduated from Messmer High
School.
Create a Legacy
Charitable Gift Annuity
Wills & Remainders
Trusts
BENEFITS
• Establish a Lasting Gift and Legacy at Messmer
• Receive Income for Life through Annuity Payments
• Receive Favorable Estate Treatment by Reducing
Property in Your Estate
For more information contact Messmer’s
Advancement Office at
development@messmerschools.org or
414-264-5440.
16

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MESSMERTODAY
Unprecedented Numbers Attend Messmer Dinner
Co-chair Bill Otto ’74 greets distinguished guests.
Attendees visit with students.
Nearly 500 community leaders, friends and alumni gathered at
Messmer’s Portraits in Leadership Dinner to raise valuable
funds for scholarships. The event honored four individuals for
their commitment to Messmer—Michael Cudahy, Chris
McAuliffe and Art & Meljay Krause ’59. Co-chairs Bill Otto ’74
and Bob Monday remarked, “This is an event that brings the
community together to meet the students and understand
what Messmer is all about.”
Michael J. Cudahy was awarded the prestigious Bishop’s Chair
Award for his support of, and dedication to, Messmer Catholic
Schools and education in the city of Milwaukee. Mr. Cudahy is
the retired Chairman, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of
Marquette Medical Systems. He has also been a great benefactor
of Messmer Catholic Schools. He is a strong proponent for
School Choice and helped fund renovation projects at Messmer
High School and Messmer Preparatory Catholic School.
Chris McAuliffe received the Christian Faith and Leadership
Award. This award recognizes those individuals who have let
their faith lead them in their lives, and who have, in turn, led
by example with their own good deeds. Chris has been a devoted
and cherished member of the Messmer Catholic Schools
Board of Directors for over twenty years. Her dedication to
the spirit and mission of Messmer and Catholic education has
been an inspiration to us all.
Art and Meljay (Benesh) Krause, Messmer High School Class
of 1959, were recognized with the Alumni of the Year Award.
Besides being supporters of their local Kansas City community,
the Krauses have been longtime supporters of Messmer
High School. They have funded scholarships for students and
have also supported the expansion and development of Messmer’s
technology upgrades that have benefited students, faculty
and staff.
See you in 2009!
Portraits in Leadership
Scholarship Dinner
hg
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
The Pfister Hotel
17

MESSMERTODAY
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A L U M N I N E W S
1930s
IN MEMORIAM
Ambrose Ditscheit ’32 of Brookfield, WI on August 13, 2008
Mary Marion Buchach ’33 of Menomonee Falls, WI on January 6, 2009
Patrick Jeremiah Maher ’34 of Wauwatosa, WI on October 30, 2008
Noel J. Winke ’34 of Milwaukee, WI on December 13, 2008
Ethel R. Belau ’35 of Milwaukee, WI on October 10, 2008
Frank F. Brendler ’36 of Lakeland, FL on August 30, 2008
Irene C. Gerschke ’36 of Elm Grove, WI on December 14, 2008
Irene K. Kurek ’36 of Milwaukee, WI on November 31, 2008
Mary Catherine Malloy ’36 of Milwaukee, WI on December 11, 2008
Frank B. Schaffer ’36 of Wauwatosa, WI on December 2, 2008
Alphons Schneider ’36 of Menomonee Falls on August 1, 2008
Evalyn Sorenson ’37 of Milwaukee, WI on September 26, 2008
Frances K. Timmerman ’37 of Milwaukee, WI on December 15, 2008
Marion P. Zietlow ’37 of Milwaukee, WI on January 20, 2009
Evelyn M. Swanson ’38 of Brookfield, WI on December 6, 2008
Betty J. Luedke ’39 of Wauwatosa, WI on December 19, 2008
Marcella “Marcy” Mueller-Novak ’39 of Random Lake, WI on
August 25, 2008
Edith M. Potochick ’39 of Chicago, Il on December 30, 2008
1940s
IN MEMORIAM
Daniel L. Hoye ’40 of West Bend, WI on September 3, 2008
Richard K. Chambers ’41 of Hartland, WI on November 20, 2008
Richard P. Dagelen ’41 of West Allis, WI on November 17, 2008
Helen Ann Donahue ’41 of Milwaukee, WI on June 1, 2008
Florette A. Knueppel ’42 of Milwaukee, WI on November 27, 2008
Joseph G. Koch ’42 of Milwaukee, WI on August 1, 2008
Dorothy A. Whelan ’42 of Hales Corners, WI on October 5, 2008
Laura Bisek ’43 of Milwaukee, WI on July 8, 2008
William J. Kelm ’43 of Milwaukee, WI on October 23, 2008
Robert J. Neu ’43 of Milwaukee, WI on December 3, 2008
Ralph L. Jansen ’44 of Mequon, WI on January 6, 2008
Earl James Lepp ’45 of Mequon, WI on December 9, 2008
Joseph J. Ryan ’45 of Waukesha, WI on November 16, 2008
John Howard Clement III ’47 of Milwaukee, WI on November 2, 2008
Raymond J. Esser ’47 of Brookfield, WI on November 20, 2008
Joseph F. Kobe ’47 of Milwaukee, WI on December 9, 2008
James G. Muellenbach ’47 of Sussex, WI on June 9, 2008
Patricia Ann Weger ’47 of Elm Grove, WI on August 3, 2008
William Burczyk ’48 of Columbus, OH on January 13, 2009
Kenneth M. Checky ’48 of Milwaukee, WI on October 17, 2008
Jean M. Mercer ’48 of Milwaukee, WI on October 23, 2008
Gerald C. Schneider ’48 of Plymouth, WI on October 6, 2008
Bernadette M. Schurman ’48 of Brown Deer, WI on November 28, 2008
James A. Bradley ’49 of Brookfield, WI on October 29, 2008
Darrell J. Creegan ’49 of Menomonee Falls, WI on January 7, 2008
Robert C. Kosidowski ’49 of Whitefish Bay, WI on December 15, 2008
CORRECTION: Josephine B. Steinberg ’45 generously donated at the
Capitol Drive level in 2008.
1950s
IN MEMORIAM
Harold "Harry" N. Berth ’50 of New Berlin, WI on June 9, 2008
Rita I. Kruk ’50 of Milwaukee, WI on December 11, 2008
Dona C. Monzingo ’50 of Milwaukee, WI on July 10, 2008
Donald Steinmetz ’50 of Hartford, WI on January 2, 2009
Lee Kelm ’53 of Sussex, WI on December 1, 2008
Gerald Bucher ’55 of Oshkosh, WI on November 1, 2008
Carol Katherine Bruenning ’56 of Milwaukee, WI on October 2, 2008
Barbara Ann Myszka ’56 of Brown Deer, WI on September 17, 2008
Susan J. La Fave ’58 of Kenosha, WI on January 7, 2009
Joseph A. Westrich ’58 of Stephenson, MI on November 18, 2008
Janet Mueller ’59 of Milwaukee, WI on September 9, 2008
1960s
IN MEMORIAM
James Cieslewicz ’60 of Milwaukee, WI on August 26, 2008
Joseph H. Dziengel ’62 of Brookfield, WI on July 29, 2008
Michael Bauernfeind ’64 of Milwaukee, WI on October 5, 2008
Rodney L. Mankiewicz ’64 of Menomonee Falls, WI on
November 27, 2008
Mary Jean Rieck ’65 of Milwaukee, WI on December 13, 2008
Dennis Michael Flynn ’66 of Milwaukee, WI on October 8, 2008
Kathrin Rosenkranz ’68 of Delafield, WI on July 3, 2008
Randy Jacobs ’64 returned to Milwaukee after 26 years in New Jersey.
Elizabeth (Otto) Koester ’65 retired and has lived in Oregon since 1974.
She is married with two sons and four grandsons.
Isabel Piana ’65 graduated from Mount Mary and has enjoyed a 34 year
career as a teacher with Milwaukee Public Schools and retired in 2003.
1970s
Gene Placzkowski ’74 currently works as a Consulting Engineer and is
also an Adjunct Faculty member at Marian University.
Christopher Hood ’78 has been an elementary teacher in Racine since
18

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MESSMERTODAY
1995. He writes, “I got married to a wonderful woman whose parents also
graduated from Messmer—much earlier than me, that is—and I have
one beautiful daughter.”
1980s
IN MEMORIAM
Michael Lewis ’80 of Milwaukee, WI on October 3, 2008
Joseph Tresch ’83 of Milwaukee, WI on September 9, 2008
Patrick McCanna ’84 has been married for 17 years. He has twin girls
who are 13 years old.
1990s
Emmanuel Bell ’90 lived in Atlanta for 12 years after high school and
recently relocated to Chicago.
Lucy Tapia-Franco ’95 graduated from Alverno College with a Bachelor
of Science in Nursing. She is currently working as a RN at West Allis
Memorial Hospital in the Women's Pavilion. She plans on pursuing a
Master's degree at Marquette University.
2000s
Tammy (Schertz) Willis ’00 completed her Bachelor of Arts at Marquette
University in 2004. She recently was married in May of this year.
Krystle Perry ’01 graduated with a degree in Psychology and currently
works in social services for a non-profit agency in Milwaukee.
Aleah Burks-Patterson ’04 completed an internship at the Milwaukee
Journal Sentinel and will continue her education at Columbia College in
Chicago.
Justine Shorter ’08 debuted on Marquette University radio this fall. The
show, called “Voice of Justice,” deals with social justice issues and bringing
forth change. It can be accessed at http://marquetteradio.mu.edu/
Hundreds of Alumni Gather at Reunion Weekend
On August 9, 2008, Messmer High School held its first annual
Reunion Weekend. During this event, over 200 alumni celebrated
their reunion in 2008 returning to Messmer to relive
old memories, rekindle old friendships and meet a few new
faces. The alumni were treated to a Mass celebrated by Fr. Bob
Anello ‘70, Fr. Dave Preuss, and Fr. Guy Gurath. Former graduates
were also led on tours through their old hallways by current
Messmer students. The event culminated in a reception
with cocktails and hors d'oeuvres held in the new Multi-purpose
Room and Commons Area. Several classes held their own
class-specific functions on the Friday before or later Saturday
after the festivities at the High School. The oldest returning
alum was Don Schimels of the class of 1938. The youngest returning
alum was Darryl Jackson from the class of 2008.
Classes with very large turnouts included the classes of 1948,
1968 and 1978.
Plans are currently being finalized for this year’s Reunion
Weekend on September 12. If your class will be celebrating
their reunion this year keep your eyes and ears open for more
information or contact Richard Anderson at 414-264-5440 to
get more details.
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MESSMERTODAY
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REUNION WEEKEND 2009
1934
1954
1974
1994
1939
1959
1979
1999
1944
1964
1984
2004
1949
1969
1989
2009
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 12, 2009
2:00-4:00 p.m. Open House (with tours provided by students)
4:00-5:00 p.m. Mass
5:00-7:00 p.m. Cocktails and hors d‘oeuvres
(at Messmer High School)
7:00 p.m. Individual class reunions with locations TBA
Contact Richard Anderson at 414-264-5440 or randerson@messmerhigh.com for more info.
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