A Lion for Life Alumni Magazine - Spring/Summer 2024
SPRING 2024
This magazine is a publication of the Saint Viator High School Office of Institutional Advancement
Mr. Ryan Aiello President
Rev. Thomas von Behren, C.S.V. Chief Administrator
Mrs. Karen Koch, CPA Chief Operating Officer
Mr. Jeff Ardito Executive Director of Institutional Advancement
Mr. Brian Tekampe Alumni Relations Manager
Ms. Cari Miller Manager of Advancement Operations
Ms. Elizabeth Schuetz ’08 Communications Manager
Mrs. Sara Root Data and Stewardship Consultant
Mr. Patrick Mahoney Director of Development Emeritus
Mrs. Judith Wampach Amberg Director of Alumni Relations Emeritus
ENROLLMENT
Mrs. Christine Bremner Director of Enrollment
Mrs. Maggie Haskins Assistant Director of Enrollment
PRINTING
NPN 360 - Mr. John Fox ’71
Saint Viator High School 1213 East Oakton Street Arlington Heights, Illinois 60004
847-392-4050
saintviator.com
FEATURE
Night of the Lion 2024 RecapExcitement and Energy Fill the Room at 18th Annual Fundraiser
On April 13, the Saint Viator community came together to honor Nick ‘97 and Katie Papanicholas for their dedication to the school, and to raise crucial funds for the Tuition Assistance Program.
Letter from the President From the Heart: Alumna Feature Class Notes In Memoriam
SUBMIT A CLASS NOTE
Class Notes are dedicated for alumni to share information about their accomplishments and milestones. Scan the QR code to the right to submit a note for the next A Lion for Life Alumni Magazine issue.
SUBMIT AN ALUMNI-OWNED BUSINESS TO OUR DIRECTORY
To be included in the directory, the business must be founded, owned and/or operated by a Saint Viator alumnus or Sacred Heart of Mary alumna, and have products and/or services currently available for purchase. Scan the QR code above to submit.
12
A LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT
DEAR SAINT VIATOR COMMUNITY,
In April, my family was blessed to spend a few days in Arlington Heights. In addition to spending time on campus talking with faculty, staff, and students, I had the great privilege to attend a boys lacrosse tournament, where I met so many exceptionally dedicated parents. It was wonderful to hear so many compelling stories detailing the incredible impact Saint Viator High School has had on their families. Seeing our team trounce the competition (who happened to be the defending state champion in Indiana) was just icing on the cake.
Without question, the highlight of the week was attending my first Night of the Lion. The energy was palatable as I greeted families before, during, and after the event, and I was honored to join in celebrating the generosity of the Papanicholas family. I met alumni ranging from our inaugural class of 1964 to 2019. I was so impressed by Addie Peters ‘26, our incredible student speaker, as well as the alumni performance of the fight song at the night’s conclusion. The spirit that drives our community is strong!
Looking forward, I’m excited to partner with all members of the Saint Viator community as we prepare to reignite our Capital Campaign. Make no mistake: our school is strong and the opportunities we provide for advancement in academics and faith are second to none. But, with your help, we will be able to continue adding the resources we need—to our facilities and our endowment—to best serve our students and remain a leader in Catholic education.
Additionally, I’m excited to embark on a strategic planning process in the years to come that will help identify and prioritize our collective goals. At its best, this work provides the compass we will need to anticipate and adapt to the ever-evolving educational landscape. Together, and in concert with our Viatorian charism, we will continue to strengthen every aspect of our student experience.
I hope to have the opportunity to meet as many of you as possible—in person, over the phone, or even via zoom—this summer. My door is always open, and I can’t wait to learn more about you, your family, and your hopes for the future.
Yours in Christ,
Ryan Aiello President
EXCITEMENT AND ENERGY FILL THE ROOM AT 18TH ANNUAL NIGHT OF THE LION FUNDRAISER
“The word of the night is ‘new.’ New President, new optimism, new chapter in the history of Saint Viator High School.” That’s how Nick Papanicholas ‘97 described the energy and excitement that filled the room Saturday, April 13, at the 18th annual Night of the Lion Fundraiser.
Nick and his wife Katie were the evening’s honorees at the dinner and auction, an acknowledgment of their longtime dedication to the school and the impact their involvement continues to make.
This year’s Night of the Lion returned to the school, and the response was overwhelmingly positive. A crowd of 350 people — including current and past parents, alumni and two tables of the Viatorians — filled the Cahill gymnasium for the formal dinner and auction.
Fr. Thomas von Behren, C.S.V., Interim Chief Administrator, opened the formal portion of the evening by welcoming guests. “To attend this gala event is a testament to the love and care you have for our school,” Fr. von Behren said, “and of our shared mission of providing a Catholic, college preparatory education to young men and women who enter our doors each day.”
Fr. von Behren then introduced Saint Viator’s newly named president of the school, Mr. Ryan Aiello, who begins his term in late May. “I am so blessed to be here tonight celebrating the Saint Viator community,” he said after being introduced. “This is a truly humbling moment for me, and I am so excited for our future.”
Fr. von Behren also had the job of introducing Nick and Katie Papanicholas. He described their involvement in the school community, including Katie serving on the hockey board and Nick’s role as chairman of the building and grounds committee and as a member of the board of trustees.
“Together, their commitment and dedication are foundational,” Fr. von Behren said, “and have brought us to this time where we enjoy newly remodeled classrooms, air conditioning throughout the school and a learning environment that is first class.”
In accepting their award, Nick and Katie Papanicholas first thanked Fr. Daniel Lydon, C.S.V., the immediate past president of Saint Viator.
“He really ignited the passion in Katie and me to make a difference,” Nick Papanicholas said. “Without him stoking that fire, Katie and I would not be here tonight.”
In describing their commitment to the school, they pointed to the students and improving the student experience. “It’s about the future, future students, future athletes,” Nick Papanicholas said. “It’s about the lifelong staff that give so much to our school and our kids. It’s about making an impact on the school and leaving it better than when we found it. It’s about believing that the foundation is formed when you walk through those hallways.”
SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR HOST COMMITTEE
Lisa Eckert Aliprandi
Maria DelBoccio
Cathy Fitzpatrick
Joan Hegberg ‘86
Cassandra McKenna
Judi Schuch
Jen Towsey
Lisa Warren
Maria Yonkus ‘92
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS
Fr. Louis Querbes Circle
Christine and Matthew ‘84 Boler
Michael ’95 and Melissa Canning
Directions AV
Nicholas ’97 and Katie Papanicholas
President’s Circle
Clerics of St. Viator
Frank and Michele Voris
Principal’s Circle
Angelo Caputo’s Fresh Markets
Carey Electric
Flood Brothers Disposal
Greco & Sons
Kuhn & Company Investment Counsel NPN360
Jamie ’95 and Patrick ’95 Riley Wintrust
Lion’s Circle
Arcon Associates
Brian ‘96 and Beth Battaglia
C Starr Team
CAGE Civil Engineering
Citywide Mechanical
DelBoccio Marchetti Group
Eagle Concrete
Gregory ’92 and Cassandra McKenna
Faculty Circle
Aeroshield
Catherine and Brian Fitzpatrick
Kate Marker Interiors
Michel Minton ‘64
MEET THE NEW PRESIDENT OF SAINT VIATOR HIGH SCHOOL
Anticipation was building at the Night of the Lion gala in April as guests waited eagerly to meet Saint Viator High School’s new president, Mr. Ryan Aiello. Sure enough, Fr. Thomas von Behren, C.S.V., in his role as Interim Chief Administrator, introduced him to the crowd.
“I am pleased to confirm that our search for a new president is over,” Fr. von Behren said. “I want to thank all of you who have helped make this process so successful and resulted in a leader for the future, with a vision for excellence.”
In taking the stage, Aiello was warmly greeted by the crowd. “I so enjoyed meeting so many of you as you came in the doors tonight,” he said, “and I can’t wait to continue those conversations in the weeks and months ahead.”
Aiello was named after a nationwide search. He officially starts his new position in late May, when he will be the 12th president of the school.
“I echo the words of Fr. Tom. I believe our best days are ahead of us,” he said, “and together we’re going to move our school to even greater heights.”
Aiello is a native Californian and earned an undergraduate and master’s degree in English at California State University in Chico. His teaching career includes positions at high schools in Erie, Colorado and Athens, Georgia, as well as teaching English classes at California State University in Chico and the University of Nebraska.
While nearly all of his experience has been on the West Coast, Aiello’s wife, Kelly, grew up in Chicago’s northern suburbs, including Morton Grove, Skokie, and Antioch. In accepting the job, they will be closer to family and their six-year old son, Declan, will get to spend more time with his cousins.
During his high school assignments, Aiello also coached student athletes in track and field, boys’ and girls’ basketball, and football. His wealth of experience outside the classroom may explain why in thanking his family at Night of the Lion, he specifically mentioned Declan, whom he expects to be at every sporting event, band concert, and choir performance.
“Mr. Aiello is a mission-focused, student-centered visionary whose approach to leadership has been described as highly collaborative and consultative, wanting to ensure that all voices are heard,” Fr. Mark Francis, C.S.V., Provincial Superior of the Clerics of St. Viator, said.
“His energy and enthusiasm for education are matched by his devotion to the Catholic faith.”
In boiling down his background, Aiello described himself a proud product of the teachers’ lounge, having grown up, literally and figuratively, alongside his father, who was an educator and coach for more than 40 years, and his colleagues. “This experience has always framed my philosophy and practice,” Aiello said, “as has my Catholic faith.”
Aiello’s father and his colleagues also helped him shape his approach to education: “Among the many lessons I learned from those committed educators, one stands out: establishing purposeful, engaged relationships with peers, parents and students is at the core of delivering dynamic learning experiences, whether in the classroom, on the court, or while serving side-by-side in the community.”
Aiello visited the school several times during the interview process, and he said he felt especially drawn to Saint Viator through its rich history, pioneering spirit, forward-thinking approach to academics, and steadfast commitment to service and justice.
“I feel so blessed to be joining the outstanding, faithfilled Catholic community at Saint Viator High School as the next president,” Aiello said. “From the moment I first stepped foot on campus, I could feel the school’s deep commitment to developing students in mind, character and spirit. I look forward to partnering with our amazing students, faculty, staff, alumni and families to continue to honor the Viatorian charism and tradition, and to propel innovation and growth in the years to come.”
Aiello expects to hit the ground running, with some ambitious goals in mind. For starters he wants to meet with as many families and employees as possible through the summer. He also wants to know each student by name by the end of the school year.
“As far as projects go, I know there’s a lot of energy for reigniting the capital campaign to boost the endowment and start work on the backyard,” Aiello says. “I suspect that I’ll be spending a good deal of time working with our advancement team and the chairs on that important work.”
“Additionally, the school is due for a refresh on the strategic plan,” he adds, “so I look forward to partnering with the board and the community at large to begin exploring the key tenets that will help guide our next chapter.”
FROM THE HEART
LORRETTA GRIFFIN ‘73
Lorretta Griffin ‘73 still remembers the perception when she entered a courtroom, that as a woman she was the court reporter and not the trial lawyer. It still gets her dander up, especially when she went on to practice law for more than 38 years, specializing in insurance defense and was the first female partner in her firm.
Now retired and living in Northern Wisconsin with her husband of 45 years, Alfonso Lopez, she misses the analysis of law and especially arguing a case in the courtroom. Looking back, she credits her Sacred Heart of Mary education with giving her the confidence and tools to do it.
“Sacred Heart of Mary (SHM) promoted leadership skills—required them—and that became important,” Griffin says. “We ran the clubs, turned out the yearbook and the student newspaper, and put on the variety show. I was not afraid to lead.”
Griffin would go on to pursue English literature at Michigan State University, which she says served her well at John Marshall Law School in Chicago. However, it was her leadership skills and confidence that allowed her to succeed in her first-year law class, which was more than 90 percent male.
“It was such a man’s world when I started, and still is,” Griffin says. “I mentored so many women on how to navigate (never cry). My granddaughter will still be fighting for equality, but her granddaughter may see a level playing field.”
“There was a large number of young, female litigators when I started, but most did not last,” she adds. “Some of that was litigation’s natural attrition rate and some was due to the job market openings in other areas. But some was due to a generally hostile environment.”
Still, Griffin succeeded. She worked 14 years in private practice, eventually becoming partner. One of the firm’s clients asked her to start up a staff counsel operation,
which she did for the Hanover Insurance Group, while setting up the Law Offices of Loretta M. Griffin. With the Hanover Group, she managed Chicago cases originally, before adding the Midwest, and ultimately large exposure cases nationwide during her last eight years.
CLOCKWISE: Lorretta Griffin ‘73 welcoming her classmates to their 50th reunion reception this past September; With her siblings, Mary Beth Riley ‘69, Theresa Ray ‘72, Kathleen McCormick ’66, Susan Segal ‘67, and John Griffin ‘71; In her law office in the 90’s.
Griffin was the youngest in her family that grew up attending St. Raymond School in Mount Prospect. Her four older sisters attended SHM and all succeeded in their adult lives. The oldest, Kathleen [McCormick] ’66 earned a degree in biology from St. Mary’s College at Notre Dame before marrying and raising six children, while managing her husband’s dental practice. Susan [Segal] ‘67 earned a PhD from the University of Chicago and taught at UCLA; Mary Beth [Riley] ‘69 was president and principal of Notre Dame High School for Girls in San Jose, CA, before retiring in June 2023; and Theresa [Ray] ‘72 was a teacher, principal, and curriculum director for Jefferson County, CO. Their brother, John ’71, worked in the auto industry and retired as an executive.
Griffin’s high school experience meant so much to her that she took an active role in helping to organize her 50th reunion last year. In fact, she volunteered to take the microphone and welcome everyone to the dinner, representing her SHM alumnae.
“We were dynamic as young women, and that carried over for most of us,” Griffin says. “Never tell us that we can’t, because we will show you that we can.”
INTRODUCING THE 2024 DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI HONOREES
Congratulations to the 2024 Distinguished Alumni honorees, Beth Nabors Powers SHM ’85 and Dr. Christopher Froelich ’69 (honored posthumously). This award is the Alumni Association’s highest honor, and was created to award alumni of Saint Viator and Sacred Heart of Mary high schools that have accomplished significant and extraordinary achievements in their careers.
For the second consecutive year, the Alumni Association also honors a young alumnus who shows dedication, creativity, and innovation with the potential for continued success in his/her professional achievements with the Striving Under 30 Award. Congratulations to 2024 recipient, Dr. Lauren Oberbroeckling, DO ’11.
Beth Nabors Powers SHM ’85
Beth Nabors Powers SHM ’85, has been a recognized leader in the nonprofit community for decades. Beth started her career serving as a family therapist for women recently reunited with their children after completing residential care for substance abuse. Those experiences led to her being hired to merge two non-profits, forming what is now known as JOURNEYS | The Road Home.
For more than 20 years, she has served as executive director of the organization, helping develop it into a highly regarded institution serving individuals facing homelessness throughout the northwest suburbs. Most recently, she completed a $6.2 million capital campaign that built a state-of-the-art community facility with shelter beds, affordable housing units, and an enhanced center offering free counseling and case management services with the focus of feeding, clothing, and housing poor and struggling neighbors.
Dr.
Christopher Froelich ’69
Dr. Christopher Froelich ’69 was one of the foremost experts in the field of cytotoxic cell granule mediated killing. In a prolific career spanning over three decades, he authored more than 110 scientific publications and over 20 reviews and book chapters. His work was published in prestigious journals such as The Lancet, the Journal of Experimental Medicine, the Journal of Cell Biology, and the Journal of Biological Chemistry.
His work spanned continents where he shared reagents research with his peers stimulating interdisciplinary collaborations and the development of new ideas. He was also well known for helping patients with unusual or hard-to-diagnose conditions and quietly helped patients pay for treatment they could not otherwise obtain.
Dr. Lauren Oberbroeckling, DO, ’11
Lauren Oberbroeckling, DO, ’11 currently practices family medicine in Des Plaines. She had previously served as senior chief resident for Advocate Aurora Health in Milwaukee. After graduating from Saint Viator, Lauren received her degree in integrative biology, served as a certified nursing assistant, and eventually received her doctor of osteopathic medicine degree at Midwestern University.
Still early in her medical career, she has already presented at several medical conferences and has established a history of volunteering for various organizations throughout the area.
Scan this QR code to learn more about past honorees and/ or to nominate an alumnus for the 2025 Distinguished Alumni Award.
Beth Nabors Powers SHM ’85, the late Dr. Christopher Froelich ’69, and Dr. Lauren Oberbroeckling, DO ’11
29 YEARS OF SUPPORTING SAINT VIATOR ATHLETICS
ANNUAL MILLION DOLLAR CLASSIC FUNDRAISER RETURNS THIS JUNE
The Saint Viator community will come together for a day of golf, fun, and fundraising at the 29th annual Million Dollar Classic on Monday, June 10, at The Club at Wynstone. This annual event serves as the premier fundraiser for athletics, a program in which 75% of Saint Viator students participate.
Proceeds from past Million Dollar Classic outings have helped fund Burks Place, our wellness bar and gathering space that offers nutritious food options, the Murphy Wellness Center, as well as new equipment like the Cahill Gym scoreboard, wrestling mats, and volleyball nets. Funds raised at this year’s event will be used to provide Saint Viator student-athletes with the necessary equipment, gear, and safety measures to continue to compete at the highest level.
Along with 18 holes on the highly acclaimed Jack Nicklaus Signature Design golf course, guests will enjoy dinner and a brief program celebrating the accomplishments of Saint Viator student-athletes.
“Saint Viator athletic programs call on our students to sacrifice, collaborate, and grow both inside and outside of the athletic arena. Our students are given the opportunity to enjoy interscholastic competition, and to be better prepared for college and adulthood because of their experiences as Lions,” said Dave Archibald, Assistant Athletic Director and Head Football Coach.
To learn more about and/or to donate to Million Dollar Classic, visit saintviator.com/mdc. For more information on how you can support Saint Viator student-athletes, please contact Executive Director of Institutional Advancement Jeff Ardito at jardito@saintviator.com or 847-392-4050, ext. 286.
A SEASON TO CELEBRATE:
FALL EVENTS RECAP
• Over 310 alumni attended their class reunion this year.
• We celebrated the Saint Viator and Sacred Heart of Mary Classes of 1973 reunions on campus with a class Mass, school tours, and dinner.
• Alumni traveled from far and wide to visit with former teacher, coach, and dean of students, Pat Mahoney, and attend the 5th annual Mahoney Golf Classic.
• Almost 100 families, friends, and classmates packed the chapel for the annual Alumni Memorial Mass.
• We welcomed over 285 families at our Thanksgiving Mass with Grandparents in November.
• Thanks to your generosity, the Saint Viator family raised $103,445 on Giving Tuesday 2023 with 287 gifts made.
“The entire weekend was a testament to how blessed we were to attend Saint Viator and Sacred Heart of Mary.”
Tom Chapman ‘73, who married his high school sweetheart from Sacred Heart of Mary, Maureen Schlegel ‘73
WELCOME BACK TO SAINT VIATOR, BR. JOHN EUSTICE, C.S.V.
After three years of seminary studies, Br. John Eustice, C.S.V., will be returning to Saint Viator High School in August to take over as Director of Campus Ministry and serve as Chaplain. It will be his first assignment as Fr. John. He is being ordained to the priesthood on June 8.
“Youth ministry has been my career, so in one sense I will continue to serve in a capacity that is familiar,” Br. John says. “Yet, this new dimension as a priest will allow me to provide the high school community with the sacraments, filtered through who God has been creating me to be.”
Being involved in youth ministry is what drew Br. John to religious life. He grew up attending St. Thomas More Catholic Community in suburban Las Vegas, which the Viatorians founded and staffed for 30 years. There, he participated in its vibrant Life Teen program as well as Scouts, and both drew him to discern a call to religious life.
“I joined the Viatorians after college because I found a like-minded group of men who were also committed to serving young people,” Br. John says. “This is the core of my ministerial identity.”
In all, Br. John spent 20 years as a religious brother, and he says those years have been integral to his discernment to become a priest.
“This call to ordination only happened because of my life as a religious brother,” he says. “The call to live communally with my Viatorian brothers is the base that sustains everything else that happens in my life.
“Being a brother to all helps me to be attentive to God’s invitation, to my personal prayer life, and to the way I operate in the world,” he adds. “I believe the call of a religious brother is to be a role model to all the baptized.”
Yet now he is excited to take this next step in his religious life. Br. John will be ordained at St. Thomas More by Bishop Christopher Glancy, C.S.V. He will celebrate a Mass of Thanksgiving the next day at St. Thomas More and on June 16 at Maternity BVM Parish in Bourbonnais, where he has been assisting while completing his seminary studies.
All of which brings him back to Saint Viator for the start of the 2024-25 academic year. His roots go back to 2001-02 at Saint Viator, when he served as a Campus Ministry intern during his first year as a pre-novice.
He would serve on and off for ten years at Saint Viator, nearly all in Campus Ministry. Through it all, he developed a special interest in bringing teens closer to Christ, much like his own formative years.
In pointing to a Viatorian who mentored him in his discernment, he mentions two: Fr. Corey Brost, C.S.V., who was his vocation director at the time, and the late Fr. Bob Bolser, C.S.V., who served at Saint Viator in the mid-80s and later at St. Thomas More.
“Fr. Bob, through his humor, excellent preaching and sincere accompaniment of young people who felt alone in the world, remains an example of how to be a gentle presence among those who experience life to be turbulent,” Br. John says. “Both of these men were brothers for a significant time before seeking ordination.”
CLASS NOTES
CLASS OF 1969
Congratulations to the members of the 1969 varsity swim team who were inducted into the Saint Viator Athletics Hall of Fame in January.
CLASS OF 1974
Former faculty member Br. Michael Gosch, C.S.V. and former Saint Viator President Fr. Corey Brost, C.S.V. received the Heroic Heart of Gold Award from the Village of Arlington Heights in February.
Fr. Terry Keehan, pastor at Holy Family Catholic Community in Palatine, returned to Saint Viator in April to celebrate Easter Mass with current students.
CLASS OF 1992
Alex Jochaniewicz returned to Saint Viator this past December to lead a hands-on poetry discussion with our Querbes Scholar students.
CLASSES OF 1996 & 2010
Denise Walker ’96 (basketball) and Dan Stringfellow ’10 (golf) were inducted into the East Suburban Catholic Conference Hall of Fame in April.
CLASS OF 2009
Danny O’Shea won his third national championship and his first with partner Ellie Kam. He was named to Team USA and placed 11th, the highest of the three U.S. pairs, at the world championships in March.
CLASS OF 2014
Colleen Dempsey ran the Boston Marathon in memory of her father, supporting the New England Patriots Foundation, in April.
CLASS OF 2021
Tara Jennings just completed her junior year at the University of California Irvine, where she is majoring in biological sciences. In addition to her classroom studies, she works in a cancer research lab in the university’s medical school. This past spring, her research on COVID-19 and its effects on the innate immune system was published in the Journal of Immunity and Ageing. It can be found in the National Library of Medicine’s National Center for Biotechnology Information, which is part of the National Institute of Health.
THANK YOU...
Joe Bollard ‘22, Michael Dimucci ‘22, Sarah Hunt ‘22, John Kaiser ‘23, John Krause ‘23, Amelia Maglio ‘22, Andrew McKenna ‘23, Quentin Perry ’22, Rylee Untalan ‘23, and Ronan Valera ‘22 for returning to campus in January to speak with current juniors and seniors about the college application process, how to get involved in college, and a range of other post-graduation topics.
... Jim Bristol ’73, Alex Campbell ’10, Lou Capizzi ’99, Paul Costello ’05, Jim DeBlasio ’04, Chris Efken ’79, Anthony Ferrazzuolo ’09, Michael Ferrazzuolo ’11, Katie Ford ’89, D. Court Harris ’03, Tim Hogaboom ’11, Brian Kopp ’94, Jane Lambesis SHM ’79, Patty McElroy SHM ’79, and Maureen Meersman SHM ’79 for serving as volunteer mentors and advisors to our 2024 IncubatorEDU™ Intro to Entrepreneurship students.
Find more information on how to support or volunteer as a coach, mentor, or shark for the 2025 INCubatoredu™ Program at by scanning the QR code to the right.
IN MEMORIAM
God, grant eternal rest to
these members of the Saint Viator and Sacred Heart of Mary community.
The following lists include updates reported by family members, newspapers, and other sources as of February 10, 2024. An update will be shared in the summer alumni magazine.
ALUMNI
Mary Ahlenius SHM ‘81, December 7, 2023. Daughter of the late Pauline and the late Gerald Ahlenius; sister of Stephen ‘78, Elizabeth ‘79, and Christopher ‘84 Ahlenius.
Jennifer Vargas Basso SHM ‘86, November 7, 2023. Daughter of the late Elizabeth and the late Robert Vargas; mother of Joseph III, Jacob, and Jaclyn Basso; sister of Theresa Vargas Watson ‘86 and Lisa Vargas ‘83.
Margaret Broeren SHM ’77, August 1, 2023. Daughter of the late Sue and the late Dick Broeren; wife of Michael Coffey; mother of Maura Ambroch and Katie Coffey; sister of Molly ’68, Bill ’69, and Rick ’73 Broeren, Jane Broeren Lambesis ’79, the late Robert ’71, and the late Kathryn Broeren ‘77.
William Christiansen ‘65, August 23, 2023. Son of the late Christ and the late Kathleen; husband of Connie; father of Annie Grosz, Sara Knigge, Leah Dillow, and Becky Offill; brother of Bob ‘65, Kathy Sierra, Tom Christiansen, Kevin Christiansen and the late Mary Ann Walker.
Elizabeth Dowdle Comastro SHM ‘72, March 29, 2023. Daughter of the late Richard and the late Kathleen Dowdle; mother of Lisa Comastro and Marissa Comastro/Creighton; sister of David ‘77, Patrick ‘79, John ‘80, the late Richard ‘73, the late Paul ‘74, and the late Maureen ‘75 Dowdle.
Terrence Cuny ‘69, July 29, 2023. Son of the late Charles and the late Cecile Cuny; husband of Kathleen McGrath Cuny ‘69; father of Terrence II, Colin, and Maura Cuny; brother of Eileen Cuny Neal ‘66, Kathleen Mackey, Dennis Cuny, Patricia Johnson, and the late Fr. Timothy Cuny, OSA; brother-in-law of the late Colleen McGrath ‘73.
Paige Ehlman ‘92, November 18, 2023. Daughter of the late Paul and the late Diane Ehlman; sister of Lesley Ehlman Brewster ‘83, and Todd ‘83 and Brett ‘88 Ehlman.
Timothy Felski ‘78, November 28, 2023. Son of Charles and Joan Felski; father of Angela Waters; brother of Lynne Topacio and John Felski.
Martin Fenton ‘74, January 4, 2024. Son of the late Francis Fenton and the late Mary Fenton; husband of Deborah Fenton; father of Martin Fenton II, Kristen Erwin, and Nickolas Fenton; brother of Frank ‘71, Dan, Kevin, Joe, Jerry, and Tim Fenton, and the late Mary Rongner.
Timothy Gillespie ‘71, August 14, 2023. Son of the late Michael and the late Betty Gillespie; husband of Karen Gillespie; father of Brian Gillespie; brother of Mick Gillespie ‘75, Beth Gillespie Swift ‘82, and Peg Ayello.
Paul Huening ‘66, October 22, 2023. Son of the late Hermina and the late Clarence Huening; father of Nabil and Nathan; brother of Vincent ‘78, Ted ‘81, Tom, and Lawrence Huening, and Christine Graff, Mary Ann Cooke, Annette Huening, Joan Huening, Ellen Makowski, the late Donna Robinson, and the late Barbara Huening.
Edward Hussey ‘69, July 28, 2023. Son of the late Arthur and the late Virginia Hussey; brother of Thomas ‘76 and Robert ‘77 Hussey.
Judith Ludwig, SHM ‘68, June 9, 2023. Daughter of the late Ross and the late Josephine Ludwig; sister of Mary Jo Ludwig Peterson ‘69 and Ross Ludwig ‘73.
Sue Ellen Guilfoil McArthur SHM ‘68, September 12, 2023. Daughter of the late Dwight and the late Margaret Guilfoil; wife of the late Douglas McArthur; mother of James and Heather McArthur; stepmother of Kevin Ossler; sister of Judith Poole, Michael and Dwight Guilfoil, and the late Joyce Guifoil Beauchamp ‘68, the late Mary Lou Barnes, and the late William and the late Thomas Guilfoil.
Matthew McBride III ‘88, August 5, 2023. Son of Matthew McBride Jr. and Madeline McBride Bisulca; father of Matthew and Mason McBride; former husband of Melissa; brother of Megan Wieland, and Brian and Tim McBride.
Thomas McLaughlin ‘77, July 4, 2023. Son of the late Bill and the late Patricia McLaughlin; husband of Kathie; father of Katelyn; brother of Bill McLaughlin ‘74, Kathy McLaughlin ‘67, and the late Mary-Pat Koller.
James Michalak ‘65, November 2, 2023. Son of the late Gladys and the late George Michalak; husband of Claudia Michalak; father of Michele Dobbins.
Charles Moser ‘69, August 23, 2023. Son of the late Charles and the late Diane; husband of Leslie Moser; father of Stephanie Moser; stepfather of Kevin McGrath; brother of Kurt ‘76, Mark ‘77, Richard ‘80, Valerie, Frances, Kristen, and the late Michael ‘71 Moser.
Paul Motisi ‘74, December 31, 2023. Son of the late Peter and the late Carmela Motisi; father of Scott and the late Daniel; brother of Stephen, Roberta Johnson, and the late Peter Jr.
Angela Murphy SHM ‘70, July 27, 2023. Daughter of the late John and the late Marie Murphy; mother of Helen Pazen.
Albert Nosek, expected to graduate in 2025, January 25, 2024. Son of Robert and Aneta Nosek; nephew of Monika Dmochomska.
Chester W. Salzmann ‘65, February 5, 2024. Son of the late Gertrude and the late Alex Salzmann; brother of Gary and the late Wayne Salzmann ‘67.
Norbert Sawalski ‘72, August 7, 2023. Son of the late Norbert and the late Barbara Sawalski; husband of Margaret Sawalski; father of Mark Sawalski; brother of Barbara Krupa, the late Thomas Sawalski, and the late Mary Pelot.
Colleen Keane Wagy SHM ‘70, July 6, 2023. Daughter of the late Matthew and the late Patricia Keane; wife of Michael Wagy; mother of Bryan, Nicole and Heather; sister of Maureen ‘66 and Patricia ‘68 Keane, and Kathleen McKay.
Stephen Weber ‘79, January 5, 2024. Son of Ann and the late John Weber; brother of Annmarie Weber Rouget ‘82; uncle of Brendan and Caroline Rouget. Kenneth Wittich ‘85, December 15, 2023. Son of the late Kenneth and the late Linda; former husband of Sue Neugebauer Wittich ‘86; father of Michael ‘18 and Timmy ’20 Wittich; brother of Christopher and the late Mark ‘87 Wittich.
FAMILY
Mary Ann Brackus, September 13, 2023. Wife of the late Robert; mother of Lisa Brackus Janowski ‘78, and Michael, Kerry, and the late Robert Brackus.
Bedelia Brandt, December 12, 2023. Wife of the late Raymond Brandt; mother of MaryEllen Brandt Larson Danziger ‘77, Michelle ‘81 (Paul ‘79) Riopel, John, Victor, Michael, and the late Margaret Brandt Carruthers ‘76.
Donald Burke, December 9, 2023. Husband of the late Marjorie Burke; father of Donna Burke Dolan ‘87, and Matthew ‘82 and David Burke.
Michael Callero, August 20, 2023. Husband of Linda; father of Frank ‘04, Paul ‘06, Victoria ‘08 and Theresa ‘10 Callero.
Barbara Cannistra, July 9, 2023. Wife of the late Steve; mother of Steven Cannistra ‘77, Mary Kay Cannistra Steward ‘79, and Chris Gall.
Rosemary Cataldo, September 16, 2023. Wife of Constantine Cataldo; mother of the late Terese Cataldo-Abruzzo and Jerome Cataldo ‘77; grandmother of Joseph Abruzzo ‘99, Allyson Nora ‘06, Elise ‘08 (Michael ‘06) Cirone, Natalie Keating ‘12, and Anthony Cataldo ‘12.
Kenneth Coester, January 20, 2024. Husband of Hazel; father of Melissa Coester Cain ‘86 and Kimberly Bird.
Karen Collier, November 5, 2023. Wife of the late Kent Collier; mother of Korinne Collier ’98, Sean ‘04 (Angeline LaMantia ’02) Collier, Kristine Frandria, and the late Kent Collier Jr.
Mary Jane Crutcher, November 27, 2023. Wife of the late Charles Crutcher Jr.; mother of Patricia Crutcher Palmeri ‘78, Jean Crutcher Boyle ‘83 and the late Susan Vander Maazen.
Marguerite Dalton, October 15, 2023. Wife of Leon Kellum; mother of Ian Smith; sister of Kathleen Dalton ‘71 (Tim ‘71) Healy, Barbara Dalton Martin ‘75, and James Dalton ‘70.
Mary Ellen DeVaney, November 27, 2023. Wife of the late Edward Patrick DeVaney; mother of Mary Kate DeVaney Phillips ‘89, Edward DeVaney Jr. ‘93 and Kelly Spotak.
Thomas Diamond, December 7, 2023.Husband of Roberta; father of Diane Diamond Berry ‘89 and Donna Diamond.
Margaret Dougherty, February 8, 2024. Wife of the late Eugene Dougherty; mother of Gene Dougherty ‘71, Joanne (John ‘71) Fox, Kathleen Hopkins, Mary Darmofal, and James and Timothy Dougherty; grandmother of Katie Hopkins ‘06, Joseph Dougherty ‘09, and Margaret Lange ‘11.
Gerald Ellsworth, September 4, 2023. Husband of the late Margaret; father of William ‘73, Thomas ‘75, Daniel ‘78, Robert ‘82, Michael, and Peggy.
Kathleen Freiburger, August 7, 2023. Wife of the late Joseph Freiburger, Sr; mother of Joseph Freiburger ‘83, Beth Anne Erbach, and Katherine Aulenta; grandmother of Bradley ‘19, Gregory ‘21, and Tommy ‘25 Wilson.
Patricia Godlewski, February 4, 2024. Wife of Daniel; mother of Michael ‘80.
Raymond Gondek, August 25, 2023. Husband of Marianne; father of Ann Marie Gondek ‘90, Patrick Gondek ’95, and Michelle Terhune.
Diana Holmes, September 21, 2023. Wife of Jeffrey Holmes; mother of Matthew ‘95 and Jeffrey ‘97.
Lois Hoppe, January 22, 2024. Wife of the late Paul; mother of Mary Hoppe Dominiak ‘71, Mark ‘72, John ‘73, Tom ‘75, Barbara Hoppe McCarthy ‘77, Lois Hoppe Pierski ‘79, Bart ‘82, Meg Hoppe Locascio ‘87, Karen Hoppe Cline ‘89, the late Paul III ‘69, and the late Matthew.
Anna Marie Hornof, August 18, 2023. Wife of the late Frank; mother of Donna Hornoff Maguire ‘68, Gerald Hornof ‘71, Diane Abram, and Debbie Young.
Joan Jarzemsky, July 28, 2023. Wife of the late Richard Jarzemsky; mother of Dan ‘72, Dave ‘73, Carol Jarzemsky Csanda ‘74, Kim Jarzemsky Rice ‘77, Lynn, Mark, and Tim.
Janice Jenkins, December 29, 2023. Wife of the late Harry Jenkins; mother of Patrick 70, Laura, Wendy, Jeannine, and the late Richard.
Beverly Kelly, July 1, 2023. Wife of the late Bernard Kelly; mother of Anne Kelly Drnec ‘69, Colleen Kelly McKenna ‘70, and Tom ‘72, Bill ‘71, Dave, and Mike Kelly, and Diane Reidy, Margaret Tubbs, Mary Lamb, Kay Miles, Jean Cooney, and the late Rose Kelly Otte ‘67.
Quinn Lanus Jr., November 5, 2023. Husband of Mary, Saint Viator Scanlan Center Testing Coordinator from 2008 to 2021; father of Christopher ‘06, Stephen ‘07, and Matthew ‘14.
Malcolm MacCoun, October 20, 2023. Husband of Cathryn MacCoun; father of Catherine MacCoun ‘70, Ann Kantner, and Robert and the late Thomas MacCoun; stepfather of Dana Ashmore, Stacy Connelly, and Tina and the late Christopher Dahlstrom. Elaine McNamara, December 15, 2023. Wife of the late Richard McNamara; mother of Steve ‘65, Jim ‘66, Tom ‘70, Bill ‘71, Susan, and Mary.
Edward Mertes, August 27, 2023. Husband of Pauline; father of Jim ‘79, Jean ‘81, Dan ‘88, and Sue. Robert Miller, October 29, 2023. Husband of Judith; father of Melissa Miller Ruth ‘87 and Randall Miller ‘90; grandfather of Jack ‘17, Michael ‘18, and Tommy ‘21 Ruth.
Robert Moren, November 22, 2023. Husband of the late Colleen Moren; father of Michael ‘83 (Kathleen Fahey ‘83) Moren, Amy Moren ‘85 (Timothy ‘85) Kenesey, Andrea Moren ‘85 (Michael ’83) Riley, and Amanda Moren ‘86 (Richard Henderson).
Dolores Murbach, June 30, 2023. Wife of the late Roger Murbach; mother of Cathy Santelle, Ross ‘95 (Rochelle Russo ‘95) Lund, and Michelle Murbach Eberhardt ‘03; Nonnie of Jake ‘24 and Mia ‘27.
Carm Notaro, August 19, 2023. Husband of the late Joan; father of Steve ‘77, Nancy ‘78, Tim ‘79, Tom ‘80, Cathy ‘81 (Pete ‘81), Mike ‘89, and the late Laurie Ann; grandfather of Ryan ‘08, Laura ‘10, Kevin ‘12 and Danny ‘16.
Kelly Anne O’Connor, July 26, 2023. Mother of Gregory O’Connor ‘11.
Rita O’Connor, November 12, 2023. Wife of Robert; mother of Katherine O’Connor Priest ‘78, Rose O’Connor Casey ‘79 and Colleen Avery.
Edward Osinkosky, December 9, 2023. Husband of the late Irene; father of Alan Osinkosky ‘69, Karen Osinkosky, Lisa Bennett and Lora LeGrand.
John Pelican, December 7, 2023. Husband of the late Noreen; father of Edward Pelican ‘86, Joan Pelican Pohodich ‘87, Joseph Pelican ‘89, and Mary Pelican Booth ‘91.
Joyce Perkins, November 5, 2023. Wife of the late Carl Perkins; mother of Deacon Michael ‘75 (Mary Beth Pritscher ‘76) Perkins, Mary Perkins Cliver ‘78, and Larry, Richard, and the late Kathleen Perkins.
Richard Pluth, December 21, 2023. Husband of the late Kathleen; father of Katie Pluth Wawak ‘85, Patrick ‘87, and Chrissy Pluth Azman ‘88.
Adeline Pontarelli, December 2, 2023. Wife of the late Silvio; mother of Raymond ‘88.
Joe Reising, February 2, 2024. Brother of Bill ‘68, Don ‘69, and Lauretta ‘74.
Jinny Rohrer, November 12, 2023. Wife of the late Lawrence Rohrer; mother of Lawrence Rohrer ‘68, Patricia Rohrer-Walsh ‘71, John Rohrer, Mary Ellen Holdsberg, and the late Michael Edward Rohrer.
Roswitha Sabo-Spector, March 25, 2023. Wife of Arthur Spector; mother of Christopher Spector ‘00 and Jonathan ‘04 (Olivia Metzinger ‘04) Spector.
Greta Saelens, November 20, 2023. Wife of Mike; mother of Chris Saelens O’Keefe ‘91, Jean Saelens, and Tricia Dieck; grandmother of Joe ‘15, Kate ‘18, and Dave ‘22 Orecchio.
Jane Schoepke, June 21, 2023. Wife of Richard F. Schoepke; mother of Daniel Schoepke ‘69, Patricia Schoepke Henderson ‘73, Geri Schoepke Hill ’74, Mary Benner, Mark Schoepke, Eileen Arosen, Kevin Schoepke, and the late Jeffrey ‘70 and the late Ellen Schoepke.
Norbert Sipiera, June 26, 2023. Husband of Melanee Sipiera; father of Marcus Sipiera ‘90 and Mary Beth Sipiera Stark ‘92.
Eric Slezak, September 21, 2023. Husband of Lynn Slezak, former Saint Viator front desk receptionist; father of Scot Slezak ‘07 and Elyse Slezak Bartnicki ‘09, current Saint Viator Spanish teacher.
Sandra Stewart, February 8, 2024. Wife of John; mother of Brandon ‘15.
James Stube, November 3, 2023. Husband of the late Joan; father of Anne Stube Masini ’79, Jane Schulien, Carol Hammersley, Patty Jett, and Christopher.
Diane Swiderski, August 15, 2023. Wife of the late Joseph Swiderski III; mother of JoAnn Swiderski ‘86 (James ‘86) Grasse, Robert ‘88, and Richard; aunt of AAB member, Pam Swiderski ‘94.
Ann Marie Tuszynski, August 16, 2023. Wife of Joseph; mother of David Tuszynski ‘76, Donna Tuszynski Followell ‘77, Cynthia Tuszynski Kline ‘80, Camille Tuszynski Strissel ‘83, and Robert Tuszynski ‘86.
John Weck, January 24, 2024. Husband of Jill; father of four sons; brother of Maureen ‘91, Casey, Kevin, Madonna, James and Meghan.
FACULTY
Paul Baffico, September 19, 2023. Former husband of Mary; current husband of Max; brother of James Baffico and Christine Reich; father of Jonathan Baffico, current Saint Viator principal, and Jeffrey Baffico.
Julie Butitta, July 18, 2023. Wife of the late Jim; mother of Jeanne Vallem, administrative assistant to the Principal’s Office, Jodi Amans, Jill Anderson, and John, Jim, Jeff, Jerry and the late Jack Butitta; grandmother of Katie ‘93 and James ‘02 Vallem.
Josephine Lang, December 9, 2023. Mother of Rose Ruffatto - former Registrar from 1994 to 2019, Mary (Rob ‘66) Obodzinski, Sue Crady, Ray Lang, Terese McDonald, Julie Lang, and the late Al Lang; grandmother of Jim Ruffatto, Michael Ruffatto ‘99, Katy Allen ‘02, Emily Nadaud ‘04, Darryl Crady ‘15, Lauren Tregoning ‘12, Andy Lang ‘14, and Nick Lang ‘16.
Patricia Romano, January 15, 2023. Wife of the late Henry Romano, Sr.; mother of Mary Marks (Husband Randall Marks was a former football coach from 1991 to 1997.); grandmother of Sarah Paredes ‘94, Katharine Degoma ‘95, Elisabeth Gellings ’99, and Olivia ‘15.
Frances Scerbicke, November 6, 2023. Wife of the late Ronald Scerbicke; mother of Deborah Scerbicke, current Saint Viator Dean of Students since 2001, and Glenn, Gregory, and Scott Scerbicke.
Fr. Alan Syslo, C.S.V., January 7, 2024. Son of Frank and Anna Maria Syslo. Fr. Syslo pronounced his first vows Sept. 8, 1958, and was ordained a priest June 4, 1966. Fr. Syslo was a former teacher.
Carole Ann Foley, December 16, 2023. Mother of Cristin Nester, and Eric ‘91 and Brian ‘95 Foley; grandmother of Emma and Owen Nester and Stella and Shane Foley; sister of Rick Balis. Carole “helped students understand the logic, the language of numbers” as a math teacher at Saint Viator from 1978 to 2008, including time spent as department chair. Carole’s obituary noted that “with her big and bottomless heart,” she not only was a “well-loved and respected teacher,” but she also “generously gave so much of herself“ as a “family-centered mom, grandmother, daughter, sister, aunt, and best friend.”
Saint Viator High School
1213 East Oakton Street
Arlington Heights, IL 60004
saintviator.com
847-392-4050
Please email alumni@saintviator.com with new addresses, email addresses, phone numbers, photos and updates. Stay connected to us on social media. Find us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
