2021 FALL Re-U-Knight-er by Bishop O'Gorman Catholic Schools

A publication for the Bishop O’Gorman Catholic Schools community & alumni. FALL 2021

THE WELL AN OPPORTUNITY OF PRAISE & WORSHIP HALL OF FAME 2021 INDUCTEES A LEGEND KNOWN AS GRIZZ CELEBRATING EXCELLENT TEACHERS IN CATHOLIC EDUCATION

Greetings Alumni and Friends! This is my second Re-U-Knight-er publication and I hope you enjoy it! Over the summer, I gave two reunion tours of O’Gorman High School. Both tours may have been more educational for me as I experienced the memories, the “ahs” and the excitement that alumni experienced when they returned to the halls. For some, this was the first time back on campus since graduation, for others it was the first time back at OGHS since the building was remodeled. But what remained the same was the anticipation of seeing the alumni class composites.

Our mission... to form a community of faith and learning by promoting a Catholic way of life through Gospel values and academic excellence.

President: Kyle L. Groos Development & Alumni Specialist: Liz Myscofski 605.575.3391 Director of Development: Susanne Halverson Gale ‘94 605.575.3342

Unfortunately, the composites have not yet been re-hung. We are still seeking donations to help finish this project. The first stage has been completed: the floor has been re-tiled; a water fountain and a non-functional electrical box were moved to increase wall space and the walls were painted. In addition to the composites that have falling pictures, water damage or cracked glass, all of the composites were removed to increase space on the walls. The second stage of the project will be to fix the damaged composites, to blend the classes that previous had two composites and to preserve the displays on the earlier years. If you are interested in supporting this project, please visit the alumni page at www.ogknights.org. Sincerely, Liz Myscofski Development and Alumni Specialist

Executive Director Bishop O’Gorman Catholic Schools Foundation: Nicole R. Bruning 605.575.3362 Admissions: Jenni Struck 605.575.3358

GO DIGITAL!

Bishop O’Gorman Catholic Schools 3100 W 41st St Sioux Falls, SD 57105

If you would like to move to a digital version of the Re-U-Knight-er, go to www.ogknights.org/alumni/contact-form. You can also email info@ogknights.org or call 605-336-6354. A big thank you to those who have switched to e-issues already. Not only do we save on printing, but postage as well.

www.ogknights.org www.facebook.com/BishopOGKnights

@BishopOGKnights

Re-U-Knight-er is published three times annually by the Development Office and the Alumni Office for all alumni, Bishop O’Gorman Catholic Schools’ families and supporters.

@BishopOGKnights

Re-U-Knight-er Staff: Designer: Angie Halter | Writers: Liz Myscofski, Chloe Goldade ‘08

The Well... an evening of

praise & worship for OGHS students

In August, as the sun set on McEneaney field, O’Gorman High School students ended their first week of school in faith. The voices of 100+ students echoed through the parking lot from the 50-yard line as they joined together in song. The Well began in 2019 as an evening of praise and worship for OGHS students. Since then, it has brought dozens of participants together each month to share in their faith. Campus Ministry Coordinator Brian Stai, who started the activity with Theology Teacher Nolan Cleary, says the event is completely optional, giving students the ability to have ownership in their decision to attend. It is an effort to help bring students closer to God, no matter where they are in their faith journey. “We realize that our students come to The Well with all kinds of backgrounds, hurts, preconceptions and assumptions. At The Well, we try to [share] the hope and love of Jesus: God created you, He loves you, He has a plan for your life, and the Holy Spirit wants to fill you and empower you. That message is relatable to everyone, both students newer and farther along in their faith journey can relate to that,” explained Stai. It’s impossible not to be moved when witnessing the group of teens celebrating the Lord in one large community. Cleary often tells his students that they don’t need to compare their faith with someone else’s and encourages them to find God in their own way, establishing a sense of camaraderie with each other. This is what Senior Isabelle Cox says keeps her coming back every month.

“I seriously always look forward to it. Each time just gets better and better with me growing in my faith. It is such a good opportunity to just take one Friday out of your month and give your praise to Him for all that He has done and also just to have a community of people that all have the same goal of wanting a relationship with Christ,” said Cox. “To see the joy and excitement during and after The Well is very uplifting and encouraging. Many people have seen the polls and research that shows that a large percentage of young people are leaving the Church but The Well is one small example that young people do want to experience God’s love and want to share that with others,” remarked Stai. In September, The Well, celebrated at Christ the King Parish, began with music from student musicians and testimony from peers. Throughout the crowd, students raised their arms to the sky, one student knelt on the floor of the church, some closed their eyes while others sang quietly. Senior Caleb Honner says the creation of The Well at OGHS has helped him find himself in faith and realize that his relationship with Christ continues to grow. He says the ability to give his problems to the Lord once a month, he feels renewed.

“Many of the students describe feeling a peace or a joy that they have not felt before or in a long time.”

- Nolan Cleary

“Being at school and doing homework, projects, etc. can drain you of life, and giving all those things to God and just praising Him gave me that life I needed to keep on moving through school. I give Him my anxieties, my doubts and anything that is holding me back just so that I can live and not just survive,” explained Honnor. It’s a sentiment that is felt by some new additions to Bishop O’Gorman Catholic Schools. Sister Eileen and Sister Lynn, two Pro Ecclasia Sancta sisters joined our system this fall. You will hear more about their mission and journey in the upcoming winter issue of the Re-U-Knight-er, but they have already been active at both Well gatherings this year. Cleary feels proud that students at all levels of faith have found a home at The Well. He hopes that it is a tradition that continues for many years to come.

That belief is shared by Honner who says any student looking for guidance should give The Well a try. “I know within our school that people are at different places with religion and different places in their spiritual life. Give God one shot. Something major may happen, or nothing might happen, I’ve been on both sides. Even if you are not into your faith, there are great people who want to get to know you, who want you to know that you are loved and cherished. You can make great friends that will help you through your high school years, helping you thrive and not just getting through each day,” encouraged Honnor. Cox echoes that sentiment by explaining that there is nothing to lose when exploring your faith, even when it might seem intimidating: “No matter where you are in your faith or don’t know if you believe, this is a great opportunity to find out those unknowns. You never know what God has planned for you but all you have to do is take the first step and just show up.”

“The most rewarding part of The Well is that we are able to witness the ways that God moves in our students. Although it is awesome that The Well keeps growing in numbers, the real fruit has been in the students following The Well. Many of the students describe feeling a peace or a joy that they have not felt before or in a long time,” said Cleary.

PROTECT YOUR LOVED ONES

YOUR LOVED ONES NEED YOU, BUT WHAT WOULD THEY DO IF YOU WERE NOT THERE?

LEGACY

ARE YOUR PLANS UP-TO-DATE?

AND CREATE YOUR

With just a little planning, you can have peace of mind knowing you have taken care of your family and secured their future.

A current estate plan is vital to making sure your wishes are carried out and can help you leave a lasting personal legacy. While each person’s and family’s situation is different, there are some planning strategies that can help you provide for your heirs and leave your legacy. To assist you with making or updating your future plans, we can provide you with our FREE Estate Planning Guide. To obtain a copy, please contact us or visit our website.

www.BishopOGLegacy.org

#TUESDAYFOR TEACHERS

Help us support our valued educators with a gift to the Bishop O’Gorman Catholic Schools Foundation during our Tuesday for Teachers effort beginning on November 1st running through Giving Tuesday on November 30th. We’ll also be partnering with various local restaurants who will be donating a portion of their proceeds back to the effort! We are committed to providing all of our teachers and staff with the competitive compensation they deserve, which is why supporting our Teacher Salary Endowments is currently our greatest area of need. We are counting on you to make this year’s Tuesday for Teachers effort a success!

Here’s how you can support our teachers!

• Give Online: Go to www.ogknights.org and click on the Tuesday for Teachers graphic on the front page. • Mail: Send your gift to Bishop O’Gorman Catholic Schools Foundation (3100 W 41st St, Sioux Falls, SD 57105) • Don’t Cook on Tuesdays: Skip the kitchen and dine out or order from one of our partner restaurants who will donate a portion of their sales back to our Tuesday for Teachers effort. Go to www.ogknights.org and click on the Tuesday for Teachers graphic for a list of dates and participating restaurants.

2021 INDUCTEES 2021 brought six inductees into the O’Gorman-Cathedral Hall of Fame. Full bios are included on their plaques, which now hang in the Hall of Fame hallway at O’Gorman High School (outside the Performing Arts Center balcony).

MIKE BEGEMAN (FORMER COACH) - EXCELLENCE IN ATHLETICS Mike coached at O’Gorman for 18 years. During that time, he established a successful foundation for boys basketball, coached girls tennis winning four straight titles from 19921995 and led the boys golf program to back-to-back titles in 2001 and 2002. Mike retired from coaching in 2005 to pursue a career in Public Relations at Sanford Health before he retired in January 2021. He remains involved and serves on several boards including Leadership South Dakota Board of Directors, Sioux Falls Park Board, Sanford Health Foundation Board and the South Dakota High School Basketball Hall of Fame Board. He is a member of the South Dakota Basketball Hall of Fame, South Dakota High School Coaches Hall of Fame and Augustana Hall of Fame.

STEVE KRIER (COACH AND TEACHER), ANN KRIER (FORMER TEACHER), TREY KRIER ’06, JENNY (MILLER) KRIER ’07 – EXCELLENCE IN ATHLETICS The Krier family has been a part of the O’Gorman community since 1981. Steve Krier continues to teach Social Studies at O’Gorman and coach track and cross country. He is a member of the Augustana Hall of Fame, Yankton High School Hall of Fame and the SD Amateur Basketball Hall of Fame. His wife, Ann, taught 6th grade at St. Mary Elementary for 19 years. Their son, Trey, was part of the 2004 and 2005 Football State Championship teams as well as the 2006 Boys Basketball State Championship team. He is a member of the Mount Marty University Athletic Hall of Fame and the SD High School Baseball Association Hall of Fame. Their daughter-in-law, Jenny (Miller), received All-State recognition for basketball and was the 2007 Spirit of Su recipient. CEDRICK LANG ‘11- EXCELLENCE IN ATHLETICS Cedrick graduated from O’Gorman in 2011. During his high school career, he was part of the 2010 and 2011 Boys Basketball State Championship teams and received several all-state awards including: McDonalds All-American Nominee, All-Conference, Class AA First Team AllState, All-Tournament, 2011 Class AA Player of the Year, the Lee Dolan Award and the South Dakota Mr. Basketball award. He attended the University of Texas El Paso on a basketball scholarship and played all four years. He is the recipient of the Commissioners Honor Roll for 2011-2015, USA Freshman of the Week, 2013 Conference USA Most Valuable Performer and 2013 Conference USA Men’s Basketball All-Academic Team. He used his fifth year of college eligibility to play football where he was scouted for the NFL. He has signed with NY Giants, Denver Broncos, MN Vikings, New England Patriots and the Indianapolis Colts.

MARY SUE DONOHUE ’68 – DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI Mary Sue has demonstrated generosity of her time and talents to multiple organizations through her expertise in estate planning. She was among the first group of women to receive her law degree from the University of South Dakota, becoming a third-generation lawyer in her family. Her accomplishments include being a member of The South Dakota Bar; The Florida Bar; The American Bar Association; a member of and past president of The Greater Boca Raton Estate Planning Council; a member of The Real Property, Probate and Trust Law and the Law Practice Management Sections of the Florida Bar; and chair of the South Palm Beach County Bar Association Probate for five years, Trust & Guardianship Committee. Her volunteer work includes entities such as the Florida Atlantic University Foundation, Florida Atlantic University Nursing School Advisory Board, Florence Fuller Child Development Center, JARC, St. John Paul II Academy, Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County, Boca Raton Regional Hospital PAC, Florida Philharmonic, YMCA and St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church. Mary Sue has received countless awards and recognition for the work she has done to aid organizations with estate planning and ensuring the non-profit sector continues in the future. SAM KEAN ’97 – DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI At O’Gorman, Sam took every science class he could and graduated co-valedictorian. He was an avid long-distance runner, earning nine letters in cross-country and track and running on the Knights’ state championship cross-country team in 1994. He loved theater and acted and sang in several plays and musicals. He later graduated from the University of Minnesota with honors and received degrees in both physics and English literature. He went on to become a New York Times bestselling author for several books including The Disappearing Spoon, The Icepick Surgeon, The Bastard Brigade and The Tale of the Dueling Neurosurgeons. In his writing, he strives to show how science affects our lives in hidden ways beyond the lab and he always emphasizes the human side of science. Beyond his books, Sam has edited The Best American Nature and Science Writing Anthology and his work has appeared in The New Yorker, The Atlantic Monthly, and the New York Times Magazine, among other publications. He has also been featured on NPR’s “Radiolab,” “Science Friday,” “All Things Considered” and “Fresh Air.” His podcast, called the Disappearing Spoon, debuted at #1 on the iTunes science charts and he has given talks at colleges, universities and festivals around the world. In 2021, he was awarded the National Grady-Stack Award from the American Chemical Society for outstanding scientific communication. PAUL AND NANCY SCHARENBROICH ’77 – DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI In 1998, Paul and Nancy’s son, Eric, and his girlfriend, Angee Roseboom, were killed instantly in a head-on collision with a drunk driver. In response to the tragedy, they developed Help Eliminate Alcohol Related Tragedies or HEART, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Through the years, Nancy developed long lasting relationships with the South Dakota Department of Public Safety, the South Dakota Department of Transportation, countless media platforms, website developers and enthusiastic volunteers who have helped communicate her message: “Get a ride don’t drink and drive!” Billboards, public service announcements, TV, radio and social media presentations were produced as well as public speaking events tailored to young adults at high school were all part of her passion project. For her advocacy and commitment to impaired driving prevention in the state of South Dakota, Nancy was honored and recognized with a National Public Service Award from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration on April 26, 2021. Their passion project has impacted countless lives and has been recognized with lowering deaths and injuries in the state of South Dakota. Nancy has spoken at O’Gorman High School’s Drivers Education classes for over 20 years, in addition to other public speaking events. Nancy reminds everyone: “By making the responsible choice to not drink and drive, you’ll never know whose life you saved. You’ll never know the families you saved. It doesn’t have to happen, this is totally preventable.” Save a Life, Don’t Drink and Drive.

BOB BURNS DAKOTA BOWL XLIII “RETURN TO THE MAC”

After 43 years, this year’s Bob Burns Dakota Bowl was one for the record books. It was postponed not once, but twice! On Saturday (or Dakota Bowl 1.0 as we like to call it), the forecast was filled with thunderstorms and rain in the afternoon and evening, but the Dakota Bowl committee, school administrators and fans stayed optimistic. The day started out beautifully with over 300 kids participating in the football and cheer camps. Our varsity football team set up obstacle courses and drills for participants to test their agility. The OGHS cheerleaders taught the mini cheerleaders how to use their Knights Spirit to get the crowd ready for kickoff with a dance and cheers. Tailgating in the main lot started in the afternoon and was packed with seniors, band members, football players and fans of the Knights. Families and friends filled their time playing beanbags, enjoying food and simply talking and laughing with one another as they waited for the Knightsway Parade and the pregame to start. The Dunk Tank saw a never-ending line of eager students ready to dunk their teachers and principals! Bishop DeGrood joined us and celebrated Mass at the Lorang Theatre. It truly was a great day to be a Knight! The weather allowed for the cheer camp performance and also the football camp skills challenge winners to be announced. But as soon as the winners accepted their prizes, a massive downpour hit the Mac. Fans scrambled for cover to wait out the rain which accumulated four inches. Students, staff and families played games, danced and enjoyed the ability to stay warm and dry inside the O’Gorman High School building before the game was officially postponed and rescheduled for the following Monday.

FOOTBALL CAMPS CHEER CAMPS TAILGATING KNIGHTSWAY PARADE DUNK TANK MASS WITH THE BISHOP

WOODY DREY AWARD A KNIGHTS

VICTORY!

More photo from DBXLIII can be found at www.ogknights.org/about/events/dakota-bowl or on Facebook: @BishopOGKnights

When the day arrived, Bob Burns Dakota Bowl 2.0 started off with Lucas Fiegen and Chris Filsinger, our Dakota Bowl chairs, presenting the Woody Drey award to Nate Dally. Nate is a former Dakota Bowl committee member who has been instrumental in raising money for the system and is a willing volunteer wherever he is needed. When the Knights kicked off, the clouds were already rolling in, but they managed to get through the first half of the game before lightening postponed the game a second time. At that point, the Knights lead the Roosevelt Rough Riders 7-6. Bob Burns Dakota Bowl 3.0 was finally played on Tuesday, August 31. Mother Nature decided three Dakota Bowls was enough and the sun shone on McEneaney Field for packed stands on both sides of the field. The remaining two quarters were played with a Knights victory over the Rough Riders of 14-12! Congratulations to our Dakota Bowl committee members who worked hard to make this fundraiser a success by selling ads in our souvenir program, raffles and tickets to the game. Team 202 beat out long-time reigning champs Team 205 by $2,033 for a team total of $24,058! Congratulations to Team 202: Chris Filsinger, Aaron Severson, Antonio Casiello, James Gaspar, Dan Johnson, Brooke White, Joe Rutten and Joe Ryan. Thank you to everyone who helped support and make this year’s Bob Burns Dakota Bowl one to remember! After the bills were paid, we raised over $152,000 for all eight Bishop O’Gorman Catholic Schools. Go Knights!

KNIGHT NOTES Safe to Play St. Lambert Elementary 5th and 6th graders hit the playground to make sure all students were safe to play. They raked the wood chips in their playground to make sure they were evenly spread so no one falls.

Knight Spirit St. Mary Elementary students showed their Knight Spirit by wearing their Knightwear before the Bob Burns Dakota Bowl! They were ready to cheer on the football team during the big game!

GO KNIGHTS! Slime Time! Holy Spirit Elementary students got to SLIME their principal for meeting their summer reading goal! The top reader from each grade level poured green slime all over Mr. Manning, check out the Bishop O’Gorman Catholic Schools Facebook page to watch it live. The goal for the summer was for students to read a total 120,000 minutes. They CRUSHED that goal by reading for 168,172 minutes!

Walk-A-Thons Several elementary schools fundraised by holding Walk-A-Thons this Fall. Christ the King, St. Lambert and St. Katharine Drexel all had Walk-A-Thons for their yearly fundraiser. What great events for a great cause!

Marching Band O’Gorman Junior High students got a taste of being in the High School Marching Band during homecoming! The 7th and 8th graders marched in with the high schoolers and played during the game. They even practiced being drum majors and conducting!

Service Projects At St. Michael Elementary, a different grade level helps each week at Mass by greeting, serving and reading. Following Mass, the students and families work on a service project. 4th grade students and parents decorated pillows for the Avera Pediatric Unit and the Bishop Dudley Hospitality House. They decorated lunch bags and wrote notes of encouragement for Lunch is Served, Inc. and the St. Francis House. Plus they made cards and rosaries for the newly baptized and newly registered parishioners at St. Michael Parish.

What’s up at NATIONAL BLUE RIBBON SCHOOL

HOMECOMING

O’Gorman High School is a 2021 National Blue Ribbon School! This is the 4th time O’Gorman High School has received this award. They are one of only ten high schools in the nation to receive this award four times. The National Blue Ribbon Schools Program recognizes public and private elementary, middle and high schools on their overall academic excellence.

Homecoming Royalty were crowned during the variety show this September. Nominees included (L-R) Keegan Wenande, Trey Heckenlaible, Matthew Viehweg, Rick Adriano, Homecoming King: Seth McMaster, Homecoming Queen: Megan VanDenHemel, Tess Simon, Auburn Brenner, Clare Carlson, Kennedi Kolsrud. Congratulations to all!

BOYS NATION

GIRLS STATE

Senior John Costello was selected to attend American Legion Auxiliary Boys Nation in Washington D.C. over the summer. He was NEARLY elected Secretary of the Senate (4th highest elected position) but he lost by only one vote. Only two representatives from Boys State in South Dakota are chosen to attend Boys Nation.

Senior Auburn Brenner was elected by her peers to be this year’s American Legion Auxiliary South Dakota Girls State Governor. During Girls State, female representatives from high schools all over the state gather in Vermillion for one week to take part in the processes of city, county and state government.

PLAYERS OF THE YEAR

Five O’G athletes and one team were named the Argus Leader Players of the Year for the 2020-2021 school year. Included were Alea Hardie in Girls Cross Country, Riley Aarbo in Boys Soccer, Shannon McCormick in Girls Golf, Bergen Reilly in Volleyball and Lexie Brady in Softball. The volleyball team was named Team of the Year.

GIRLS GOLF

BOYS GOLF

Our Lady Knights are the 2021 AA Girls Golf State Champions for the fourth time in a row. They claimed the state title by 35 strokes over the runner-up. The Lady Knights have won nine state championships and two state runner-up titles in the last 11 seasons.

After a thrilling two hole sudden death playoff with Lincoln, the Knights are the 2021 AA Boys Golf State Champions! The Knights had two players on the All-Tournament team.

CLASS AA 2021 KELO CUP

FALL PLAY

O’Gorman High School was the recipient of the Class AA 2021 Kelo Cup. This award is given to the school who collects the most points from first, second and third-place finishes at state tournaments.

This year’s Fall Play was Peril on the High Seas and was shown at O’Gorman High School’s Lorang Theatre October 7-9.

Celebrating excellent teachers in Catholic education! “It is an honor and privilege to be here to introduce our 23 Teachers of Excellence,” stated Mark Conzemious, the President of the Catholic Community Foundation of Eastern South Dakota, who works with donors to support the charities they care about. Teachers of Excellence was established in 2020 by a family who cares deeply about the Bishop O’Gorman Catholic schools. The goal is to recognize quality, high-performing teachers who go above and beyond, affirming the faith-filled, committed, extraordinary educators at Bishop O’Gorman Catholic Schools.

The eight criteria encompass what it means to be a Teacher of Excellence at Bishop O’Gorman Catholic Schools: Lives our Faith-Filled Mission and Values Positive Relationship Builder with Students, Parents and Staff Promotes Student Academic Excellence Selfless Team Player that Goes Above and Beyond Lifelong Reflective Learner Serves as an Educational Leader Among the Staff Incorporates Innovative Ideas While Remaining Willing to Fail Dedicated to the Profession Teachers are nominated by colleagues, priests and parents. The nominated teacher must teach at least half time and have a minimum of three years of experience with Bishop O’Gorman Catholic Schools. In the first year of the program, 18 teachers were nominated and four teachers were recognized as Teachers of Excellence and awarded $10,000 each: Teresa Fester, Ben Koch, Jeff Gordon and Katie Meert. This year, 23 teachers were nominated and six teachers were recognized as Teachers of Excellence and awarded $10,000.

2021 Teachers of Excellence Award Winners ANITA HOFFMAN 1st Grade Teacher, St. Mary Elementary, 27 Years of Service “I have embraced the privilege of being the face of our mission to promote Gospel values and a Catholic way of life. I find personal fulfillment and a sense of joy to be a teacher of some of our youngest minds and souls. Their hearts and minds are open and anxious to receive God’s word, learn about their faith, and grow in their relationships with Jesus.” MARY T. GROGAN 2nd Grade Teacher, St. Mary Elementary, 23 Years of Service “There is something indescribable about guiding students through their First Reconciliation and First Communion. Watching an eight-year-old dive into their relationship with Christ in a real, vulnerable way is humbling.” TERESA ZIMMER 3rd Grade Teacher, St. Michael Elementary, 21 Years of Service “In my professional and personal life, I live my faith and the mission and values of Bishop O’Gorman Catholic Schools. As St. Paul wrote about in Philippians 2, I try to follow Jesus’ example by being loving and humble with my students, co-workers and family.” RACHAEL PAYNE English Teacher, O’Gorman Junior High, 5 Years of Service “I try to align with the wish of Christ to ‘do all things in love.’ Students may not always remember what I said to them, but they will always remember how I made them feel, which is why I treat them with love.” SOPHIA HERMANSON English Teacher, O’Gorman High School, 13 Years of Service “It is my goal as a teacher to make a difference in each of their lives by being a role model of respect and compassion. I want each of my students to know that they matter beyond their grade-point and that they should feel comfortable turning to others for help with assignments or personal knowledge.” KEN LINDEMANN Math Teacher, O’Gorman High School, 31 Years of Service “I try to treat them [students] with grace and empathy when they fall short. In Mark 10:45, Jesus says, ‘for the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve.’ Recognizing that my call to education was a call to serve others and not myself is the sole reason that I have had any level of success in my teaching career.”

Congratulations to all the nominees and the recipients. The Bishop O’Gorman Catholic Schools are blessed with amazing and talented professionals who guide our students at all levels! If you would like to learn more about the Teacher of Excellence awards, please visit the “Parents” tab at www.ogknights.org.

‘44 Jeanne (Englert) Amacher, can be reached at yomamaten@yahoo.com. ‘55 Lauren Peterson: “I’ve been laid up for the last few years and would appreciate any phone calls from my classmates: 605-271-5637.” ‘62 Msgr. Steve Barnett, recently moved to Prince of Peace in Sioux Falls after his retirement from the priesthood. He celebrated 50 years as a priest in 2020. He received his BA in Philosophy from St. Mary’s University in Winona, MN; MA in Theology from St. Paul Seminary in St. Paul, MN; Masters in ED.AD from USD, Vermillion; Masters in Medical Ethics. He can be reached at steve.barnett70@gmail.com. ‘64 Mary Jo (DeReu) Harvey, currently lives in Texas and has for the past 30 years. Prior to, she lived in Denver and loved it! She has three beautiful children; Chris, Liz and Chip; three dogs; enjoys a variety of crafting and traveling! She is currently retired but received her LPN from St. Mary’s School of Nursing in Pierre. ‘65 Mike Gould, and his wife, Masako are celebrating 53 years of marriage and their ever growing family including their two children; Barbara (’87) and Tom (’89); and six grandkids. ‘67 Mary Ann Erickson, celebrated 50 years as a teacher! Mary received her BS from SDSU in Early Childhood Education and Elementary Education. She taught full time for 42 years before retiring and now has been substitute teaching for the past eight years.

‘68 The class of 1968 ladies like to meet for lunch. They haven’t gathered since December of 2019 due to the pandemic. They love to gather as often as they can.

L-R: Sara Anton Thoms, Patty Feyder Myers, Barb Bendt Mark, LaNeda Kontz Kuehler, Katie Weisbecker Staebell, Shelley Burns, Denise Rotert, Cathy Madsen Nelson, Elaine Harding Combs, Jeanne Barnett Kangley, Therese Elkjer Goraj, Jo Koetzle Cero, Mary Ellenbecker Altoff, Peggy Stanton, Pam Gillespie and Paulette Rempp Klein. ‘71 Scott Wehrkamp, is still following his passion for General, Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry. His free time is spent traveling, visiting friends and family, fly fishing, spey fishing for trout and steelhead, and archery hunting for deer, elk and turkeys. He currently works at Wehrkamp Dentistry, PC 117 E Holly Blvd, Brandon, SD 57005, www.smilesrpriceless.com. ‘71 Fr. Michel Mulloy, would like to share is updated email address: mmulloy@diorc.org. ‘74 Debbie (Pollock) Peters, taught Special Education for 40 years (six at Children’s Home Society and the past 30 with the Sioux Falls School District at Whittier Middle School) and recently retired. Her husband, an artist, Professor of Art and Gallery Coordinator at Augustana University, continues to

teach and work on his art. They have four grown boys and writes “I am looking forward to this next chapter in life, relaxing and spending more time with family and friends.” artguyjohn@gmail.com ‘83 Greg Jamison, was recently elected to the South Dakota Legislature as a member of the South Dakota House of Representatives and is a new commercial Real Estate Agent with Jamison Company Real Estate. ‘84 Lisa Bump, recently moved back to Sioux Falls. She has one son, Nelson, age 16. lisabparker@gmail.com ‘88 Sister Kathryn Burt, OSB, celebrated her 25th jubilee of monastic profession on August 7 at Sacred Heart Monastery, Yankton. She states “I may be biased, but I believe, I have had the best education and am grateful to the many teachers who have influenced my life”. She served in the Air National Guard in Sioux Falls, SD, while attending Mount Marty University. She graduated from MMU in 1993 with her Bachelors of Science in Nursing degree. Upon graduation she worked at Saint Mary’s Hospital in Rochester, MN. In 1994, she returned to Yankton, SD to join the Benedictine Sisters at Sacred Heart Monastery. After making her first profession in 1996, Sister Kathy worked at Avera Sacred Hospital on the surgical unit. She made her final profession in 1999. In 2001, she was given the opportunity to attend graduate school at The Catholic University of America where she obtained both her MSN and Doctoral

degree in nursing. Upon completion of her graduate studies, Sister Kathy taught nursing for 11 years at Mount Marty University. In 2018, she received a position at Avera Majestic Bluffs as a nurse educator. Sister Kathy states that “the most exciting thing about religious life is the call to do God’s service and work whatever that might be. That seems to be changing right now in our world, but what I think our world needs more than anything now is God. Despite some of the changes around us, religious sisters have been around forever and are a strong foundation. I believe that there are women and men called to continue the tradition of prayer and work. My religious vocation continues to call me to strive to build up Christ’s church. Entering a religious community has opened me up to a vast amount of possibilities that I never knew were possible. This is what community does, it calls me to be the best version of myself and to serve God in a multitude of ways.” ‘90 Tamra Huffman, was recently awarded The Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History National History Teacher of the Year for South Dakota. Tamra is a teacher at Harrisburg North Middle School. ‘93 Mitch Maguire, is the curator of the Beautiful Collection of Prince’s custom shoes at Paisley Park, in Chanhassen, Minnesota. The collection recently was opened to the public. ‘95 Cathy Rounds, her husband, Jamison, and their four children moved to Yankton for Jamison’s job position at Mount Marty University. “While we are still settling in and adjusting, we have discovered some perks to living in this community (like shorter commute times, the river and other outdoor amenities!) Our family will undergo yet another change this fall as I will be jumping back in to education full time at the start of the 2021-22 school year as Jr. Kindergarten teacher at St. Benedict’s. While I miss my time and the people I was able to work with and get to know during my subbing and EA/sub time in Sioux Falls at St. Katharine Drexel Elementary and St. Mary Elementary respectively, I am excited to work with this new group and have my own classroom again!”

‘96 Jayne (Even) Gust, and her father, Jerry Even, were inducted into the South Dakota Basketball Hall of Fame on August 28, 2021. They are the first father/daughter duo to be inducted together. ‘97 Robert Brenner, and his wife, Nichole, are proud of their daughter Auburn (OG ‘22) who recently won Governor of the ALA SD Girls State. She attended Girls State with 300 other girls from across South Dakota. “This was a wonderful experience for Auburn and it is perfect as she wants to further her education in law and political science.” ‘01 Bethlee Burke recently graduated with her Masters of Science in Nursing for Family Nurse Practitioner and accepted a position with Avera McKennan Hospital and University Center Hospital@Home program! ‘01 Lindsey (Kary) Port, was elected to the Minnesota Senate in the fall of 2020. She represents the communities of Burnsville, Savage and Lakeville. Lindsey finished her first session where she served on the Housing, Commerce, Technology and Reform, and Metropolitan Goverance committees. ‘05 Daniel McGinnis, earned a PhD in Physics (focus: Astrophysics) from the University of Iowa. He is continuing his work with the Parker Solar Probe, a NASA project which is gathering data while orbiting the sun, in a post doctorate role. ‘05 Benjamin Sieverding, posted on his professional Facebook page “I am truly excited to make my debut with The Metropolitan Opera in May 2022. I will be part of a featured octet in Brett Dean’s Hamlet, with performances May 13 through June 9. The cast is phenomenal, and I am humbled to join them in this incredible production.”

‘08 Jessica (Jamison) Baltazer, celebrated the birth of her daughter, Madeline Elizabeth Baltazar, in May and is a new residential real estate agent with Jamison Company Real Estate. ‘09 Rachael (Andersen), and Steven Payne, ‘11, were married May of 2021. Rachael teaches 8th grade at OGJH and was recently honored with the Teacher of Excellence award. ‘12 Lukas Pizl, married Vanessa Hird on September 3, 2021 in St. Paul, MN. ‘13 Alexander Shields, and Joseph Bezenek, ‘12, produced and directed (respectively) “STRUNG”, a film that premiered at the Sioux Fall’s State Theater July 20, 2021. The film already has received the following awards: Top Shorts Winner 7th Annual Film Festival 2021; Best of Fest - Minneapolis St. Paul International Film Festival; Gold Award - Independent Shorts Awards; Achievement Award Winner Healing/Recovery Believe Psychology Film Festival; Winner Best Drama - Festigious International Film Festival; Los Angeles Film Awards Winner for Best Young Actor and Honorable Mention: First Time Director (Short), Actor Awards Winner, Best New Actress/Actor winner. The tickets to the premier were free with a donation to South Dakota’s Tallgrass Recovery and/or Emily’s Hope. ‘13 Ben Reznicek and his father have branded a new patent-pending baseball bat and started the company, RezBats LLC. Ben played baseball at Creighton University and graduated with a degree in marketing.

FORMER FACULTY 1980-1989 Fr. John Riedman is retired but is the campus minister and chaplain at Our Lady Of The Hills Regional Catholic High School and has been for the past 14 years. He can be reached via email at jrr@hctc.net.

Re-U

SPOTLIGHT

CATHY BRITTON

Cathy Britton retired from the choral director position at O’Gorman High School in the spring of 2014 after working in music education for over 40 years. Her work at the local, state and regional level along with the number of students who’ve achieved high honors through contests and honor choirs led to her recognition for the National Federation of State High Schools (NFSH) Outstanding Service to Music citation. This is the top honor the NFHS awards and in the 100-year history of the organization there have only been 30 other national Service to Music citation winners. “At the O’Gorman Vespers service in Dec. 2019, I was recognized by the SDHSAA and found out that I had won the national citation…” She was presented with the award in Florida this past summer. The NFHS is the national organization that oversees state activities associations in the United States. In doing so, this organization recognizes outstanding coaches and/or teachers in their respective activity. Recognition comes in the form of award citations and done so on the state, regional and nation level.

In 2011, Cathy received the SDHSAA Fine and Performing Arts award which led to her nomination for the state music citation, Outstanding Music Educator, which she was awarded in 2017. Both of these awards have led to her nomination for the national citation. “I continue to dabble in music through adjudication and workshop opportunities, as a singer and section leader for the Christmas at the Cathedral choir, and as music director with the University of Sioux Falls Theater department’s musical productions for the past five years. There are so many of my colleagues who are outstanding in this field that to be singled out in this way is most humbling. I am grateful to the SDHSAA and NFHS for affirming my work as a choral director. I am thankful for my time at O’Gorman High School and very blessed to have worked with such talented young singers… like Ben Sieverding (‘05). What a thrill to see his hard work, perseverance and passion become a reality.” The O’Gorman Community congratulates Cathy on her National Service to Music citation!

Class of 1991

The Class of 1991 gathered for their 30-year reunion September 17 and 18. Friday night’s gathering began with a school tour, the homecoming football game, and ended at McNally’s Irish Pub. In attendance Friday were Carrie Albers-Williams, Andrea Ferrie-McIntyre, Wendy Crowell, Kellee Karolewicz-Miles, Amy Savin-Heisinger, Rachelle Walsh-Vettern, Sheri Schmaderer-Dickens, Nan Hohn-Litecky, Jason Ollerich, Brian Landry, Ryan Pflipsen, Patrick McCluskey, Nancy Bannwarth-Raether, Beth English-O’Connor, and Julie Jacot-Bickett. On Saturday night, the ‘91 Alum gathered at the Cambria Gallery & JJ’s Axes & Ales. Pictured left to right: Erik Valland, Kyle Even, Shelley Seaman-Connelly, Sam Connelly, Andrea Ferrie-McIntyre, Brian Landry, Scott Berke, Chad Grasma, Carrie Albers-Williams, Jason Ollerich, Ryan Pflipsen, Jill Gunia-Barron, Carolyn Olson-Poppinga, Beth English-O’Connor, Sheri Schmaderer-Dickens, Nancy Bannwarth-Raether, Danielle Novetzke-Greene, Ann Spieker-Laughery, Michelle Harnden-Carlson, Nicole Halde-Welsh, Kathy Kangley-Rutten. Not pictured: Michael Borgmann.

Class of 2001

The Class of 2001 celebrated their 20-year reunion on August 27-28. The reunion began with a casual gathering at the Blue Rock Bar & Grill on Friday night. On Dakota Bowl Saturday, the class met for a tour of O’Gorman in the afternoon and then went to The Rush Bar and Grill before the football game. It became a “Knight to Remember” when the Dakota Bowl was cancelled due to severe weather in the area. In attendance were Maggie (Carmody) Basche, Jon Basche, Audie Beckman, Bethlee (Winklepleck) Burke, Alison (Soehl) Bailey, Ryan Bailey, Travis Clark, Dan Doyle, Cortney (Oines) Ebs, Ashley (Vondra) Fellows, Lindsay (Vogel) Fries, Laura Fritz, Kristin PfeiferFylling, Kaila (Grogan) Gillespie, Becca (Rotert) Hartel, John Lorang, Katie Mead, Jessica (Cook) Mitacek, Mike Murphy, Christi (Hoffmann) Pedersen, Troy Schaunaman, Katie Schaunaman, Bob Solomon, Kate (Fieldsend) Sommer, Annie (Horner) Taylor, Jonathan Thie, Rachel Watson and Nolan Whiting.

Class of 1971 – 50 Year Reunion

Upcoming

A 50th reunion is rescheduled for September 9-10, 2022. For updates and more information, please visit www.ogknights.org/alumni/alumni-happenings. You may also update your contact info: ogclassof71@gmail.com or friend/follow Oggie Gorman on Facebook for more information and updates.

Class of 1982 – 40 Year Reunion

The ‘82 class reunion committee has met and has selected the date of our 40 year class reunion. Save the date of June 10th and 11th. Details are still being worked on. Please refer to “O’Gorman High School class of 1982-40 year reunion” for updates on Facebook. If you have any questions you can reach out to Mike Hauck: mhauck@theaccordteam.com, Steve Bolger: bolgersteve02@gmail.com or Kevin Kunkel: tdadc2324@gmail.com.

* Full obits available at www.ogknights.org/alumni/in-memoriam

’41 Luetta (Seubert) Freitag passed away June 7, 2021 in Greeley, CO. She is survived by daughters Dr. Mary L. Freitag Snapp and Dr. Suzanne K. Freitag; granddaughter Allison Freitag. Luetta served our country as a Rosie the Riverter during World War II. Her remains will be interred at Arlington National Cemetery in Washington, D.C. ’43 Harriet (Heinz) Boyd passed away July 13, 2021 in Sioux Falls. She is survived by her children: Mary Lorraine (“Lori”) Rasmussen, Catherine Stahl and Stephen; six grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Charles, sisters, Sr. Lorraine, Natalie Mullen-Hurlbert, Evelyn Billion and brother, Edward. ’45 Robert Johnston passed away June 7, 2021 in Denver, CO. He is survived by his wife, Loretta; children Laura Johnston, Bob ‘72, Ann Purdy ‘74, Catherine Culshaw ‘77, Patricia Goergen ‘79, Mary Farris ‘81 and Steve ‘83; 17 grandchildren; 14 greatgrandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents; siblings; son, Michael ‘76; and grandson, Jeremiah. ’45 Sister Loretta Mcilvenna OP passed away June 4, 2021 at St. Dominic Villa, Hazel Green, WI. She is survived by her sister Marie (Mcilvenna) Nash ’53. She was preceded in death by her siblings, Patrick ’49, Al ’56, Carmel Gaspar ’49, Mary Joan Jenkins, Jack Mcilvenna, Margaret Jones. ’48 Thea (Auth) Fleming passed away May 27, 2021 in Sioux Falls, SD. She is survived by her sons, David, Tim, Dan and Tony; daughters-in-law; 10 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her husband, Joseph; parents; and grandsons Joseph, Michael and Nicholas.

’48 Bernell J. Fonder passed away November 21, 2020 in Sioux Falls, SD. He is survived by his children, Tom ‘74, Tim ‘77, Mary ’80 and Terry ‘85; seven grandchildren and three sisters. He is preceded in death by his wife Helen, parents and siblings.

’55 Pat (Myers) Wuebben passed away December 25, 2020 in Sioux Falls, SD. She is survived by her sister, Barbara. She is proceeded in death by her husband, Norman; brother, Mike ‘54; sisters, Sally ‘62 and Connie; and her parents.

‘48 James Gossman passsed away September 21, 2021 in Englewood, CO. He is survived by his wife, Marie; children, Martha and Ruth; his siblings, Mary ‘68, Gerald ‘53; three grandchildren and three great grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents; daughters Anne and Karla.

’57 Virginia (Hoerner) Collins passed away March 13, 2021 in Inver Grove, MN. She is survived by her husband, Thomas; sons, Thomas Jr and Christopher; three grandsons; and her sister. She is proceeded in death by her parents and parents-in-law.

‘50 Kathleen (Bolger) Barnett passed away September 11, 2021 in Sioux Falls, SD. She is survived by her children, Joe, John, Paul, Sheila, Rita, Teresa, Bill, Jim and Tricia; her 17 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren; five step-grandchildren. She was preceeded in death by her husband Joe. ’50 Gerald (Jerry) Toohey passed away January 20, 2021. He is survived by his children Michael, Maura, Pat and Christen; grandchildren; his siblings, Mary Margaret DeLorenzo ’48, Con Toohey ‘52, Richard Toohey ‘54, Alice Huewe ‘55, Catherine Handzlik ’57. He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Ann; grandson Quinn; siblings, Jeanne Green ’40, Bob Toohey ‘42, Pat Toohey and sister-in-law, Colleen (Curren)Toohey. ’55 Alice (Toohey) Huewe passed away March 3, 2021 in Missouri. She is survived by her children, Doug Jr., Catherine, Rebecca, Mary Ann, Therese and Patrick; by her siblings, Mary Margaret DeLorenzo ‘48, Con ‘52, Richard ‘54, Catherine Handzlik ‘57 and ten grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Doug, her siblings, Jeanne Green ’40, Bob Toohey ‘42, Pat Toohey and Jerry Toohey ‘50.

’58 Judith (Halde) Johnson passed away July 8, 2021. She is survived by her children, Laure Driscoll, Lisa Latin and James; eight grandchildren, two great grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her husband, Gary. ‘64 Jack Ellenbecker passed away September 1, 2021 in Pierre, SD. He is survived by his wife, Teri; children, Dave, Jim, Jon, Stephanie; ten grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; siblings, Bill ‘59, Julie ’60, Richard ‘62, Jim ‘64, Mary ‘68, Margaret ‘72. He is preceded in death by his parents. ’66 Patrick Michael Burkey passed away June 29, 2021 in Sioux Falls, SD. He is survived by his children, Brennan, Whitney, Hagen and Russell; his siblings, Sharon ’59, Richard ’62, Mary ’65, Mike ‘66, Dan ‘68 and Chic ’74; and countless grandchildren. ‘66 Christpher Messersmith passed away July 5, 2021 in Irving, TX. He is survived by his wife, Cynthia; children, Gretchen and Travis; grandaughter, Parker; and sister Nan Carter ‘65.

‘67 Patricia (Boever) Tschetter passed away August 18, 2021 in Bradenton, FL. She is survived by her husband, Dave; children, Toby ‘90, Tonya ‘97 and Todd; stepson, Matthew; many grandchildren, great grandchildren. ‘68 Judith “Judy” (Fluegel) Steele passed away June 22, 2021 at the University of Minnesota Hospital. Judy is survived by her husband, Jeff ‘68; son, David; three grandsons; brother, Bob ’73; brothers -inlaws, Rod ‘64, Greg ‘64, Steve ‘65, Dennis ‘70, Brian ‘79; sister-in-law, Cam ‘72. She was preceded in death by a brother-in-law, Chad ‘82 and sister-in-law, Monica ‘77. ’68 Debroah Ann (Year) MacKinnon passed away August 1, 2021 in Portland, OR. She is survived by her husband, David; children, Kate, Kelsey, Kayla; grandchildren; siblings, Dick ’72 , Peggy ‘73, Doug ‘82. ‘69 Patti (Bruhn) Ralph passed away September 2, 2021 in Sioux Falls, SD. She is survived by her husband, Tom ‘69; children, Patrick ‘90, Katie ‘93, Lindsay ‘99; grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents. ’70 R Michael Doane passed away June 26, 2020 in France. He is survived by his wife, Claudine, and children, Guillaume ’99 and Sara.

’74 Bill Reiter passed away July 22, 2021 in Sioux Falls, SD. He is survived by his wife, Mary ’74; son, Frank; grandson, Rowan; siblings, Jim ‘68, Carol ‘70, Patricia ’72, Susan ‘77, Kathy ‘84, Mary Gauer and Dan Reiter. He is preceded in death by his parents, a sister and two brother-in-laws.

Stephen McGreevy, father to Shawn ’86, Steve Jr. ’89, Shane ’91, Katie ’99 and Shea

’85 Bryan Bornhoft passed away July 16, 2021 in Chanhassen, MN. He is survived by his wife, Patty ’84; children, Alex, Jake and Zach; his mother, Sandra; his siblings, Amy DeBondt ‘83, Joel ’86 (Lora ‘86), Chad ’88. He is preceded in death by his father, Gary Bornhoft, grandparents and one uncle.

Judy L. Bierle, mother to Kelly Burfischer Tomes ’85 and Tammy Burfischer Mason ’87; granddaughter, Michelle Moore ’07, siblings; Vickie Hartman Welbig ‘74 Rodney Hartman ‘76

’03 Jessica Kontz passed away May 26, 2021 in Edina, MN. She is survived by her parents, Kevin ‘74 and Marilee ‘74; brother, Nick; step-siblings, Jeff and Jen; grandparents, aunts and uncles. She is preceded in death by her grandparents; aunt, Michelle Rausch; uncles, Joe Huff and Pat Hayes.

FAMILY & FRIENDS OF ALUMNI: Gerald “Jerry” Feldhaus, father to Kim ’81, David ‘83, Stephanie ‘98 Katherine Payne, mother to Mark ‘79

Barry Mercer father to Desiree ’15 and Destinee ‘15 Lorraine Hirsch, mother to Lisa ’80, Kim ’84, and Lori (deceased) ‘81

Lorraine Dolan Cleven, wife to Lee Dolan, Cathedral High School coach and first Athletic Director at O’Gorman, mother to Mike ’68 and Patty ‘70 Sheila Healy, mother to Scott ’88, motherin-law to Monica ’89 and Sean ’92

UPDATE/CORRECTION

From the Spring Re-U-Knight-er correction: Kevin Ronan, son of Roberta Atkins ’59; brother to Kathleen Lastine ’80, Patrick ’82, Cary ’84, Sasha ’88; uncle to Grace ’20 and James ‘24. Msgr. Doyle founder of St. Michael Parish, he did not build the school.

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a legend known as

GRIZZ

“Some of you knew him, some didn’t, but he was a teacher, coach, mentor and attendance director at O’Gorman for over 40 years. He was my Dad and made a huge impact on many students’ lives.” Jackie Wages, class of 1990, posted to the O’Gorman High School Alumni Facebook page announcing that the legend known as Grizz, had passed away. Rod “Grizz” Garrison found a home at O’Gorman. According to his obituary online: “He taught and coached at three different schools before accepting the line coach position at O’Gorman High School, a position that he held for 22 years. In addition to that, he accepted the head girl’s golf coaching duties for 31 years and amassed 12 state team titles. Later he added duties as coach of the boy’s golf team and in 12 years led them to five state team titles.” In 2015, Grizz left O’Gorman to join the Great Life Golf and Fitness team where he continued to impact the lives of many.

Renowned for his presence in the entrance of O’Gorman, Grizz was frequently found watching the students enter the school for their day, picking off the untucked polo uniform infractions one by one, patrolling the grounds for “truants” and handing out detentions. Despite his gruff adherence to the rules, students loved him. Students and athletes who had him as a coach, remember trying to get him to crack a smile, the encouragement he gave in his special gruff way and the connections he made with students. He became the guide in life many students at O’Gorman needed. The alumni community poured out stories and memories of their interactions with Grizz upon learning of his passing: Scott Honner, class of 1990, wrote “Grizz is a man that installed grit into many students in a sneaky, profound way. He was a huge part of the O’G recipe for success in many ways.”

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Erin McManus, class of 1993, stated “Pretty sure everyone has a Grizz story. I remember him patrolling the parking lot in his truck for those of us who took early leave of school. Or hearing my last name yelled from the back of O wing to G wing for jeans that may have been slightly more blue than black. Or having to eat lunch with him at the faculty table for the same type of uniform issues. Even when I was on the wrong side of right, Grizz had a way of making it okay and sharing that sly grin when correcting my poor decisions.” Lacey Babekuhl, class of 2007, recalled “When I first started at OG, Grizz scared the heck out of me. Over my four years there, I came to see Grizz as the father figure of those halls. Stern when needed but always from a place of immense love. I can only imagine how many people’s lives he helped shape and that legacy is eternal.” Tom Jansa, class of 1980, remembered how Grizz got his nickname “… Grizz, was perfect, it stuck and never went away. He had a beard, he was gruff, he could get mad. He was just putting it on. He was a teddy bear beneath the exterior.” Not only was Jansa a student of Grizz’s but eventually took over the golf program from Grizz. Jansa acknowledged this was his greatest honor in life. Rod Garrison was honored with many awards, team wins and personal accolades including: National High School Athletic Association Golf Coach of the Year, National High School Coaches Athletic Association Hall of Fame, SD Football Coaches Hall of Fame and most recently, the SD Golf Hall of Fame. His induction ceremony served as a celebration of his life, due to his passing one week prior. Alumni, family and friends gathered to remember Grizz and shared many stories. Those who spoke presented a resume of successful stories. Jim Anderson, class of 1994, stated, “I didn’t play for Grizz, I never took a shop class, I never had detention… so my experiences with Grizz were quite different. I think of Grizz and he was a player’s assistant at Great Life when I played here. He was a line coach, he was scary, I knew better than to get on the wrong side of him.” Anderson, University of Arizona men’s golf coach, was just awarded Pac12 Coach of the Year after leading the Wildcats to their first championship since 2004. “I think back to his leadership style and to those who were lucky enough to [be coached by] him, he led by example. He was selfless, he was a leader, he impacted so many lives and will never be forgotten. He had no reason to impact me, but we had a great relationship and he was always looking to help others.”

Activities/Athletics Director, Steve Kueter presents Grizz with his 2015 Hall of Fame plaque for recognition in Excellence in Athletics.

Maggie Murphy, class of 2005, played all four years of high school for Grizz. She was the conference champion and eventually went on to be part of the Mexico State University Varsity Golf team. She is now the Assistant Golf coach at SDSU and fondly remembers his kind heart and the impact he had on so many lives by making golf accessible to young kids. “He taught me to be tough, have grit. [You] might not be the most talented but keep your head down and you can accomplish great things.” Max Donohue, class of 2014, played for Grizz on the O’G golf team for six years during which he won three State Jr. Championships, three state titles and won the AGAA National Junior Tournament. Donohue went on to graduate after three and a half years from University of Arizona and recently received his law degree. He fondly remembered Grizz and specifically how he coached with simplicity: “Swing easy when it’s breezy,” Grizz coached on a windy day. Grizz recognized the need for leadership and guidance for students. He started the Sioux Empire Junior Challenge in 2002 for boys and girls ages 7-18. With weekly meets held at a different golf courses in eastern South Dakota, he successfully ran this program for 14 years and was able to award a scholarship to not necessarily the best player, but the one that showed respect, integrity, sportsmanship and teambuilding. In this honor, the Great Life Golf and Fitness community founded a scholarship at the Bishop O’Gorman Catholic Schools Foundation with the same purpose: to award a scholarship to a golfer who has exemplary sportsmanship, regardless of their athletic ability. In his parting tribute to his father-in-law, Don Wages stated “…that is what everyone talks about, his way of building you up and taking lessons and learning from them.” Grizz will be dearly missed by all the students he encountered in the hallway and on the golf course. His legacy will live on through the memories and life lessons he taught.

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