Volume 32, No. 1 Winter 2020
Enhancements in Academics ALSO IN THIS ISSUE: 2018-2019 HONOR ROLL OF DONORS
You won’t want to miss
Saturday, April 25, 2020 Farrand Hall Gymnasium
The Place to be During Spring Families Weekend!
This premier fundraiser features: • A great social atmosphere • Delicious food
• Fabulous silent auction with mobile bidding • And more!
Individual tickets
are $90 until April 1 or $105 thereafter. Cadet tickets are always $65.
Contact Cindy Trione, director of
donor relations and special events, at (262) 646-7289 or ctrione@sjnma.org to volunteer, donate an auction item, and/or become an Excalibur sponsor.
Auction proceeds benefit every cadet, teacher, program, and department at St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy!
SJNMA Commencement & Reunion Weekend 2020 SJNMA honored class years: MAY 22-23, 2020 1945–75th, 1970–50th, 1995–25th, 2010–10th The Academy cordially invites all alumni and their families to return to campus to watch the Field of Flags ceremony, attend the Founders’ Memorial Service, join the OBAA Luncheon and the Reunion Dinner, and march in the Old Boys Parade to welcome the class of 2020 to your ranks. Honored class years will have their photos taken. Watch for future mailings for a complete schedule. Call the Alumni Office at (262) 646-7220 or (800) 234-9097, or register online at one.bidpal.net/sjnmareunion/welcome for the OBAA Luncheon and the Reunion Dinner.
NEW WEB STORE DEBUTING IN APRIL You spoke, we listened! Online ordering of select polo shirts, quarter-zips, hats, t-shirts, hoodies, and alumni apparel with personalization options will be available for a limited time this April! Looking for a commemorative gift for your graduating cadet? Items ordered in April will ship in mid-May to your home or the SJNMA Cadet Store for pick up in time for Commencement & Reunion Weekend. Watch for an email with details on how to order! All major credit cards accepted.
Phone: (262) 646-7133 Email: cadetstore@sjnma.org
4 St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy
Editor-in-Chief
6
Jaime L. Buege
Executive Editor Valerie Ward
Contributors
Stephanie Ihler LTC James Kebisek Anita Kopaczewski H2009 Stephen Matz Nicole Rutherford Michael Stadler Cindy A. Trione St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy 1101 Genesee St., Delafield, WI 53018 (800) 752-2338 www.sjnma.org The Beacon is published two times per year by the Advancement Department of St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy. The editorial staff welcomes your ideas and comments. Please submit correspondence to the editor at jbuege@sjnma.org.
Board of Trustees
Thomas D. Stocks III S1969, Academy President Michael F. Henn H2016, Chair Joe LaRocca N1969, Vice Chair Bard Boand N1967, Secretary Fred Leach S1974, Treasurer Dr. Crain Bliwas N1965, Chair Emeritus Lee Breitkopf S1973, Trustee Emeritus
8
SETTING THE EXAMPLE FOR CADET LEADERSHIP First Captain Skyler Chauff 2020 shares the motivation behind his style of leadership as battalion commander of the 136th Corps of Cadets and discusses his journey through the past five years at the Academy. BRAVO COMPANY FILLS A NEED IN HONDURAS When Michael Stadler and his wife visited Utila, Honduras, they saw how schools have few resources available to children and that many children live in poverty. He shares the story of how SJNMA cadets helped to raise money to purchase school supplies for the children of Utila. PAYING TRIBUTE TO ACADEMY HEROES Each November, St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy honors our nation’s veterans with a special ceremony. This year, we recognize four Academy graduates from different branches of the United States Armed Forces for their service to our country.
2018-2019 Honor Roll of Donors Following Page 20 The Academy recognizes all the donors who gave during the last fiscal year.
Departments
2 My View 3 Front & Center 10 Academics 16 Development Update 21 Secure the Future 23 Esprit de Corps
26 Lancers Day Camp 27 Old Boys Alumni Association 28 Alumni Office Update 30 Alumni News 36 Military Men in Service 37 Taps
On the Cover
Members
David Carl S1983 Andrew Filipowski S1968 Joseph Giammanco N1970 Bill Hummel N1968 Charles Krametbauer S1978 Randy Lauer John Leone The Rt. Rev. Steven Miller Kathy Snodell H2018 Lilah Stangeland H1999 Ricky Tan 1999 Carlos Valencia S1972 John D. Wietzel S1964
Cadets Liam Griffin 2020 (left) and Jin-ho (Edward) Choi 2020 made compound machines in Principles of Engineering class in October 2019. For this project, they had to combine at least three simple machines into a single compound machine that reduces the effort needed to lift a load.
Correction: In the Summer 2019 issue of The Beacon, Cadet Luis De León 2019 was incorrectly identified as Cadet Marden Camacho Ruiz 2019 in photo 5 on page 5.
THE BEACON | St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy
WINTER 2020
1
My View Office of the President St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy
W
hen I was asked to draft my second letter for early October. Spirits were high and our team prevailed on The Beacon, I found it hard to believe almost six the field, though Mother Nature was a bit to deal with then. months had passed. As with my last installment, I want to This fall, we had the privilege of hosting the outstanding The begin by thanking our dedicated faculty and staff for their Lincoln Washington Original Historic U.S. Flags Collection. efforts. And I want to thank our cadets. Getting to know While using Mouso Hall inconvenienced our cadets, the many of them better has been a highlight of the job I had exhibit drew attention from many quarters not fully contemplated. In the end, we are that bode well for the future. I want to thank all here to serve our cadets as we work to “In the end, we are all here everyone for their patience. I should also say the set them up for success as adaptable leaders transformation of our student center into an art to serve our cadets as for the future. exhibit was phenomenal. we work to set them up Much has happened since the last edition. We are now well into our second quarter with We enjoyed great summer programs and for success as adaptable many exciting things happening. We continue to are already planning how we can improve enhance our academic programs and are reaching leaders for the future.” the experience for summer 2020. We had out to colleges and universities to form alliances a successful fall enrollment with a record that will benefit our cadets down the road. On tying 84% retention rate and a 33% increase in new cadets. the financial side of the house, we are actively working on This included several talented students who attended our new and innovative fundraising initiatives to support tuition Emerging Leaders Symposium in May 2019. assistance, campus restoration projects, and enhancements to On the athletic front, we enjoyed the most successful fall our athletic facilities. sports season the Academy has had in years. Our student If you have the chance to make it back to Delafield, please do. athletes made it to the post season in football, soccer and We would enjoy seeing you! cross-country. Many of these hardworking cadets are already gearing up for our winter sports. Respectfully yours, I hope many of you had the opportunity to make it back on campus for our Homecoming & Families Weekend in
2
WINTER 2020
Tom Stocks S1969
St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy | THE BEACON
Front & Center
An Incredible Season for Lancers Football On October 21, 2019, Rod Burks, host of Today’s TMJ4 Friday Football Frenzy, interviewed Coach Glenn Derby and Cadets Donald Austin 2021, Philip Austin 2021 and Gerald Gittens 2020, and presented the Lancers varsity football team with a trophy for being named Team of the Week. The segment aired on TMJ4 in Milwaukee that week. Also on October 21, Mike McGivern, host of Varsity Blitz with Mike McGivern, presented Cadet Donald Austin 2021 with a plaque for being named the Pick ’n Save Athlete of the Week.
Toward the beginning of November, the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel surveyed high school football coaches in southeastern Wisconsin on who the best players were this year at every position. Two SJNMA cadets were among those recognized: Cadet Donald Austin 2021 received votes for running back and Cadet Brandin Podziemski 2021 for wide receiver. The Lancers played hard and ended the regular season 6-3. We are proud of what they accomplished this year!
Football All-Conference Records 1st Team All-Conference Offense: Donald Austin 2021 – Running Back Rolf Millan 2020 – Offensive Line Brandin Podziemski 2021 – Wide Receiver Honorable MentionAll-Conference Offense: Gerald Gittens 2020 – Running Back Philip Austin 2021 – Quarterback DeCapone “DC” Jensen 2020 – Wide Receiver Ricardo Barnes 2020 – Center
1st Team All-Conference Defense: Donald Austin 2021 – Outside Linebacker Rolf Millan 2020 – Nose Guard Ricardo Barnes 2020 – Inside Linebacker Gerald Gittens 2020 – Strong Safety Honorable Mention All-Conference Defense: Philip Austin 2021 – Outside Linebacker DeCapone “DC” Jensen 2020 – Defensive End
Midwest Classic Conference Assistant Coach Of The Year: Mike Fink
2019 Lancers Football Team THE BEACON | St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy
WINTER 2020
3
First Captain 1
Setting the Example for Cadet Leadership Skyler Chauff was born in Los Angeles, California. At the age of two, he moved to Chicago, Illinois. He first attended St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy when he was in 8th grade. He had long, shabby hair, a skinny frame, and soft spoken demeanor. He could barely keep a straight face in formation, hold up his rifle, and clean his room. In fact, I even had to do push-ups one time because he was smiling during formation and eventually our entire squad found themselves in the front leaning rest. His 8th grade flaws aside, Skyler has been obsessed with Silver Rifles from day one. All I remember is the sound of his rifle being spun in the barracks at 11:00 p.m. His roommate even broke the light in their room when he tried to do a triple. Because of his dedication to the team, he became an exhibition member in his 8th grade year. Skyler also became obsessed with fitness. His first and beginning part of his second year, he was like any other average kid. After that, something inspired him to make a drastic fitness change. Many of the cadet leadership can’t understand why he goes on weekend runs when he could be sleeping in. As a result of his obsession, he is very physically fit and he’s been on the Raider Challenge team since his freshman year. Skyler was selected for the position of first captain of the 136th Corps of Cadets based on his demonstrated leadership ability and academic standing. His leadership style is different. He’s against yelling to get his point across, he’s against putting down others, and he’s against belittlement. Sometimes, he just seems too
4
3 4
WINTER 2020
positive, but the corps of cadets has seen a lot of improvement in morale and cohesiveness this year as a result. “When given the opportunity to graduate ahead of schedule last year, I told my parents I wanted to stay an extra year to help run the corps of cadets. I saw a negative style of leadership that I wanted to flip,” said Skyler. “There’s an inner drive in me that isn’t motivated by the rank, by the position, by anything. I’m just trying to make the cadet leadership better for the Academy.” Skyler has five main goals as first captain, which are of no question to any cadet on campus: 0.1 GPA improvement; 15% increase in physical fitness scores; squad, platoon and company self-sufficiency; 30% increase in community service; and keeping rooms to a standard of cleanliness. He’s known for his thought-out presentations to the corps describing what these goals are, the “why” behind them, and how we can achieve them. I’m sure we will! After high school, Skyler may attend the United States Military Academy at West Point. In fact, all he talks about is West Point! Many of his ideas for this year came from when he spent two weeks there during the summer of 2019. He has a passion for medicine and neurosurgery. Skyler will certainly achieve great success with whatever he does! Article by Cadet 1LT Liam Griffin 2020
5 St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy | THE BEACON
2
“The Path Up the Mountain: What Military School Did for Me... This Is My Story” by Skyler Chauff 1CPT Skyler Chauff wrote a memoir called “The Path Up the Mountain: What Military School Did for Me... This Is My Story” in an effort to dispel military school stereotypes and the benefits he’s realized from his SJNMA education. He takes the reader through the experiences that have impacted him and inspiring others on their journey called life. 1CPT Chauff intends to support the Academy through proceeds from the book. Purchase a copy on Amazon at bit.ly/BuyPathUpTheMountain.
1: Cadet Skyler Chauff 2020 during the 2018-2019 school year. 2: First Captain Skyler Chauff 2020 leads the 136th Corps of Cadets during the Families Weekend parade on October 6, 2019. 3: Cadet Thaddeus Goggins 2018 (left) and Cadet Skyler Chauff 2020 during a promotion ceremony in 2016. 4: Cadet Skyler Chauff 2020 and his brother, Jay, March 2015 6: Cadet Skyler Chauff 2020 with Major General Paul Lima, U.S. Army (Retired), Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army for Wisconsin, 2018
THE BEACON | St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy
Battalion Staff 136th Corps of Cadets Battalion Executive Officer: Cadet Liam Griffin 2020 In charge of all Battalion Staff members; takes direct orders from the First Captain; second in charge of Battalion Staff Battalion Command Sergeant Major: Cadet Michael McNee 2020 Serves as head NCO for Corps of Cadets; makes sure all First Sergeants perform their duties Battalion Adjutant: Cadet Jiashuo Zhang 2020 Responsible for cadet records, awards, promotions, and decorations Battalion Enrollment Officer: Cadet Ricardo Barnes 2020 Assists the enrollment office with campus tours and reads battalion narrative for parades
Battalion Operations Officer: Cadet Sebastian Stadler 2020 Keeps track of all cadet competitions, scores, superior company points and promotion tests, and writes letters of instruction for all things cadets do; third in charge of Battalion Staff Battalion Logistics Officer: Cadet Kyle Baxter 2020 Provides logistics for cadets, accounts for all rifles on campus, and keeps accountability of all awards and decorations Battalion Color Sergeant: Cadet Daniel Fairfield 2020 Hangs the American flag every day and assists with on- and off-campus events where the SJNMA Color Guard is needed
WINTER 2020
5
Community Service
Bravo Company Fills
1
2
3
When people ask Michael Stadler, SJNMA English instructor, why he choose to teach at St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy, he has no shortage of reasons to list. This one in particular has made such an impact on him that he wanted to share it with the community at-large.
C
ommunity service is one of the main components of life as a cadet at SJNMA. Opportunities like putting together meals for families and keeping our community clean are just some of the types of service that cadets provide regularly to demonstrate good citizenship and selflessness. Once in a while, however, an unusual opportunity presents itself that, although it may require a little extra effort, can make an enormous impact on those in need. One such case presented itself last year, and Bravo Company stepped up and made that difference. In 2018, my wife and I travelled to Utila, Honduras. It was our first trip outside the U.S., and we were not entirely sure what to expect. Honduras has been described in recent years as one of the most dangerous countries to live in. The murder rate has actually fallen to roughly 40 per 100,000, almost eight times higher than in the U.S., which was 5.3 in 2018. We were even advised against travel to major mainland cities like Tegucegulpa and San Pedro Sula. Instead, we flew into Roatan and took a sailboat to Utila, which is a small island located roughly 25 miles off the coast. It’s only seven miles long and three miles wide, and the population is just over 4000. There are no franchises of any kind, and every store, restaurant or business is locally owned. There is one grocery store, 6
WINTER 2020
but most food is sold at street side grocery carts. There are no addresses on buildings— people just describe a house or business by its location or physical characteristics. There are almost no cars. I saw one small pickup truck being used by a group of locals building a house, but other than that, the roads were utilized by pedestrians, bicycles, motorcycles, and golf-cart-like taxis called “tuk-tuks.” We rented a scooter, so we could see more of the island, and what we saw was eye opening. In town, there was a decent amount of commerce. The main economy for the island is tourism, specifically scuba diving. There are more than a dozen dive shops and dive schools, and the island’s location on the Meso-American Reef makes it an ideal spot for such activity. But on the outskirts of town or even just a slight distance from the main road, the level of poverty that exists made itself painfully obvious. Houses on cinder blocks were not uncommon. Barelyclothed children played in and near narrow streets, during what would be considered “school hours.” What could only be described as “ruins” of buildings, which at some point years ago perhaps gave shelter to a family struggling to make a living, were a solemn reminder of the opulence that we, as Americans, enjoy every day without giving it a second thought. It was clear to me right away that, even
with my meager salary, I could make an impactful difference in a place like this. A little would go a long way here. So when I heard that one of the local beach bars was hosting a chili cook-off fundraiser, I thought it was a great place to start! There I met several people of influence on the island, including the then head of the school board and her husband who happened to run the youth sports program on the island. I was invited to come check out one of the schools on the island, Utila Methodist Community College. Don’t be fooled by the name—it was so named because most schools on the island only go up to 8th grade, and THIS school happened to offer continuing education through 11th grade. No school on the island currently offers a regular high school diploma. As I looked around the school, I was imbued with conflicting emotions—I was dismayed by how little the schools have to work with, and yet encouraged that there were still teachers with smiles on their faces and students ready to learn. I knew something had to be done. Upon my return, I brainstormed ways to help by any means accessible to me. It was summertime, so school was not in session. As I am a baseball coach and play softball, I began collecting baseball equipment to send to the island as they have no sporting goods stores, and therefore, no access to such
St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy | THE BEACON
a Need in Honduras
4
5
things. This was a great success, and when I saw pictures of entire teams of kids wearing cleats or holding bats that I sent them, I could see that this was a worthwhile cause. The only problem was, baseball is not exactly the thing that’s going to bring these kids a life without poverty. I had to do more … I approached the SJNMA National Honor Society (NHS) advisors, Erica Johnson and Ed Scharf, to inquire as to whether NHS would sponsor a school supply drive for kids on the island. Cadet Hongbo Jia 2019, last year’s Bravo Company Commander, was present at that NHS meeting and immediately stopped me and said, “Sir, I’d like to take that on myself, with the help of my Bravo Company cadets.” In my role as a teacher at SJNMA, I would generally not be involved in the service learning projects that cadet leaders, such as company commanders, complete each year. In fact, I was not aware, for my first several years, that these were even part of the responsibilities that come with such positions. In this case, I was relieved and excited to find anyone willing to help. As one can imagine, shipping things to a small Caribbean island is anything but cheap, so it didn’t take us long to decide that gathering actual school supplies and shipping them was not the most cost-effective approach. Cadet Jia suggested that we have a fundraiser during Families Weekend and solicit donations, and then use the money to
buy pre-packaged school supply backpack kits and have them sent directly to the island. After some research, we found we could buy them in bulk at a reasonable price, so we set plans in motion and hoped for the best. Cadets who participated were rewarded with PT passes, sleep-ins, and even ice cream for donations of a certain amount. In two days, SJNMA cadets and families donated over $835, which was enough to buy 80 backpack kits for the children of Utila. Although shipping took almost two months, the backpacks arrived as ordered, and in conjunction with a community kids’ day, they were distributed to children who were identified by school officials as most in need. To see some of the smiles on the faces of these children is a testament to the impact we can have on one another on a global scale. Thanks to the efforts of Cadet Jia and the cadets of last year’s Bravo Company, 80 kids now have a better shot at academic success than they otherwise would have. In a final piece of humbling optimism, in this year’s 136th corps, the current commander of Bravo Company, Cadet Wenhao Mai 2020, has expressed his intention to carry the torch and continue this cause for the 2019-2020 school year. That’s why I choose to teach at SJNMA.
THE BEACON | St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy
6 1: A typical house on the main street in Utila. 2: A typical “community college” class in Utila, which includes grades 9-11. No school on the island currently offers a high school diploma. 3: A donated bat will surely help the on-deck batter get a hit when he steps to the plate. 4: The donation of backpacks and school supplies from SJNMA are presented to some Utilan students. 5: One of several homes where construction began, but not finished due to the poor economy. 6: A happy first grader loves her new backpack from SJNMA!
WINTER 2020
7
Paying Tribute to Academy Heroes Each November, St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy honors our nation’s veterans with a special ceremony. This year, the event was held on November 8, 2019. In lieu of highlighting that event in this issue, we would like to recognize four Academy graduates from different branches of the United States Armed Forces for their service to our country. Tim Cherwin Chief Warrant Officer 2, United States Army Following graduation from St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy in 1998, CW2 Tim Cherwin entered Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, Florida. Graduating with a degree in aeronautics, he was accepted into the United States Army Warrant Officer Candidate Program in 2003 with a follow on to attend Warrant Officer Candidate flight school at Fort Rucker, Alabama. Upon graduating from flight school flying the AH-64D (attack helicopter), Cherwin was assigned to 8-229th Attack Reconnaissance Battalion at Fort Knox, Kentucky, as an attack helicopter pilot in the U.S. Army Reserve. When he was not flying for the U.S. Army, he was a full-time airline pilot flying for the Late Comair Airlines out of John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York. In 2010, Cherwin was deployed to Iraq for a yearlong deployment flying AH-64D supporting combat operations for Special Operations Joint Task Force Iraq. In 2012, he separated from the U.S. Army, left his job at the airline, and accepted a position as a civilian flying Intelligence Surveillance Reconnaissance (MC-12s) based out of Bagram Air Base, Afghanistan, supporting Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC). In 2015, Cherwin started an aviation company with a U.S. Navy SEAL he flew air support for overseas. Located in Bozeman, Montana, the company is called Bridger Aerospace. They established an aerial firefighting company, which supports the wildland firefighting efforts throughout the United States. 8
WINTER 2020
They currently operate 16 aircraft flying the AC 690 Turbine Commanders and the CL 415 Super Scoopers. Cherwin resides in Ennis, Montana, on 20 acres in a small house at the base of the Madison Range in the Rocky Mountains.
Jason Erlick Technical Sergeant, United States Air Force TSgt Jason Erlick is a 2000 graduate of St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy. He enlisted in the United States Air Force in June of 2001, and was quickly sent to basic training due to the events of 9/11. He has spent the last 18 years in the Air Force National Guard stationed in Peoria, Illinois. He has deployed five times, serving in Operations Enduring Freedom and Freedom Sentinel. Erlick has been an air transportation specialist for the duration of his military career. His main duties have been the logistical movement of passengers and cargo. Throughout the beginning of his military career, Erlick mostly was a forklift and 60k loader driver, loading tons of cargo onto cargo aircraft such as the C-130, C-17 and C-5. On his current deployment, Erlick is tasked with the supervision of all the ramp operation at Ali Al Salem Air Base. His first deployment was for a year in 2005 where he spent time between Rhein-Main Air Base in Germany and at Ali Al Salem AB in Kuwait. Erlick was tasked and deployed again in 2007, 2008 and 2009, all to Qatar. In 2010, he was deployed to Bagram Air Base in Afghanistan. In 2012, he gave support to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) summit in Chicago, Illinois. St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy | THE BEACON
Veterans
OPPOSITE PAGE: (LEFT) CW2 Tim Cherwin 1998 in Taji, Iraq, 2011; (RIGHT) TSgt Jason Erlick 2000 at Ali Al Salem Air Base in Kuwait, 2019 THIS PAGE: (LEFT) CPT Charles Hernandez 2011 leads the Change of Responsibility ceremony for the 39th Chief of Staff of the Army, GEN Mark A. Milley, in August 2019; (RIGHT) LT Zachary Mauer 2011 at a wedding in Telluride, Colorado, 2019
Erlick is currently on a six-month deployment to Kuwait. He is a graduate of Northern Illinois University with a degree in mathematics education. He taught 7th and 8th grade math at SJNMA from 2013 to 2015. His wife and three kids live in Yorkville, Illinois.
Charles Hernandez Captain, United States Army Charles Hernandez graduated from St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy as valedictorian in 2011. He continued his studies at Georgetown University’s School of Foreign Service and was commissioned as an infantry officer in the United States Army. His military career took course upon completion of the Infantry Officer Leadership Course, Ranger School, and Airborne School in Fort Benning, Georgia. He then served two years in the 2nd Cavalry Regiment in Germany as a Striker Brigade Combat Team platoon leader and Squadron Mortar platoon leader. He campaigned closely with NATO Allies and Partner Nations in eight countries and four multinational military exercises of Operation Atlantic Resolve. In addition, he earned the coveted Expert Infantryman Badge during his overseas tour. In late July 2017, Hernandez was nominated to serve as a Junior Officer in the 3rd US Infantry Regiment, The Old Guard - Official Escort to the President of the United States. He performed more than 150 missions as the Memorial Affairs Commander rendering final honors to service members interred in Arlington National Cemetery, executed ceremonies at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and most notably served as the U.S. Army Platoon Leader honoring President George H.W. Bush’s state funeral in the United States Capitol. THE BEACON | St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy
In October 2019, Hernandez was promoted to the rank of captain and reassigned to the branch of Military Intelligence. He intends to depart from military service and pursue a civilian career in cloud computing within the Washington, D.C., area.
Zachary Mauer Lieutenant, United States Navy Reserve Zachary Mauer graduated from St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy in 2001 as company commander of Foxtrot Company and Pipe Major of The Pipes and Drums of SJNMA. He attended the United States Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, New York. Upon graduation in 2015, he commissioned as an ensign in the United States Navy as well as a United States Coast Guard Licensed 3rd Assistant Engineer of oceangoing vessels of unlimited horsepower. Mauer sailed as an engineer aboard multiple naval ammunition, fuel and fast combat support vessels in support of Operation Enduring Freedom including USNS Amelia Earhart, USNS Joshua Humphreys, and USNS Arctic. While on active duty, he conducted the extended dry-docking of USS Mount Whitney in Croatia, the dry-docking of USNS Choctaw County in Oman, as well as the final acceptance trials of USS Hershel “Woody” Williams from NASSCO Shipyard. Mauer is currently employed as a civilian surveyor with the American Bureau of Shipping in Charleston, South Carolina, and maintains a commission as a lieutenant in the U.S. Navy Reserve.
WINTER 2020
9
Academics
“From scuba diving 50 feet underwater in Sydney Harbor to running with Kangaroos in Kangaroo Valley, Luke and I were constantly looking for more experiences!”
Experiencing Australia Q
uite honestly, Australia was far from the vacation I initially expected. “What is ketchup?” Three students from China, New Guinea and South Africa asked me that as I ate toast with honey during my first meal at The Scots College. I looked up in disbelief—maybe my mind was just tired from the 16-hour time change and was starting to play tricks on me. “What?” I blurted. They asked in unison again, “What is ketchup?” The student from China then looked at his two friends and said “Oh, you mean tomato sauce.” It took a while to get used to spending my Saturday runs on the left side of the road
10
WINTER 2020
and having to look harder than usual for a juicy bacon burger. I’ll admit, I even came close a few times to getting hit by a car. Despite my initial adjustments, I eventually grew to love Australia. I also found that everyone in Australia is proud of two things: rugby and vegemite. In America, I’m so used to walking into a friend’s house just to see football on the family’s TV However, every TV that was broadcasting sports in Australia had rugby. Not only that, but everyone watching the game was enjoying vegemite, a soy sauce tasting “replica” of Nutella, according to several Australian students.
St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy | THE BEACON
Since the summer of 2013, St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy has had an exchange program with The Scots College, an all-boys preparatory academy in Sydney, Australia. From July 22-August 16, 2019, 1CPT Skyler Chaff 2020 and Cadet Luke Hayden 2020 visited The Scots College to experience their cadet programs and culture. The people I met were so nice that I had to question, at times, whether they were genuine. While in a gas station in the countryside of Queensland, a man came up to me asking where I was going. “To Kangaroo Valley,” I tersely replied. In Chicago, where Luke and I are from, strangers don’t come up to inquire about daily plans for any reason. However, within minutes, the man and I were talking about The Scots College and their rugby rankings. Small experiences like this throughout my trip taught me that discovering new things led to the most growth. From scuba diving 50 feet underwater in Sydney Harbor to
running with Kangaroos in Kangaroo Valley, Luke and I were constantly looking for more experiences! When Luke and I made the 9,000mile trip back to the United States, we brought with us shaky Australian accent impressions, clams we found on the famous Palm Beach, and bags of unique Australian candy. Luke and I can almost say with certainty that we will accept the job offer that The Scots College gave us to return next summer.
OPPOSITE PAGE: Cadet Luke Hayden 2020 (left) and 1CPT Skyler Chauff 2020 in front of Sydney Harbor Bridge in Australia. THIS PAGE: (LEFT) Sydney Harbor (RIGHT) Cadet Luke Hayden 2020 (left) and 1CPT Skyler Chauff 2020 prepare to go scuba diving.
Article by 1CPT Skyler Chauff 2020
THE BEACON | St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy
WINTER 2020
11
Pipes and Drums: P
roviding quality music education to cadets of St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy through the pipes and drums program is the top priority for Ben Peterson and Dan Brill. In September 2019, Ben joined SJNMA as bagpipe instructor and Dan has been drumming instructor since September 2017, which marked the 100th anniversary of piping at the Academy. Together, Ben and Dan are working to build a strong foundation for the pipes and drums program that will see it grow and continue long into the future. They want to bring a sense of dedication and commitment to cadets in their responsibility of continuing the legacy that is The Pipes and Drums of SJNMA. For the pipes and drums program to be a success, Ben outlines several initiatives: • To provide a thorough education in pipe band that is both enriching to the education and preparatory for the lives of the cadets involved. Dan Brill (left) and Ben Peterson
• To grow the program in size, so the longevity of the program is secure.
Fun Facts Ben: “I play bass guitar, and have spent the last six years playing with a Chicago-based hard rock band called Marwood’s Fall.”
• To provide opportunities that expose cadets to the wider spread global community that can be found through bagpipe bands and the Celtic folk tradition.
Dan: “I have performed with several national and international touring rock bands. And I enjoy Legos!”
“ The bonds and friendships made out of this dynamic experience may last a lifetime.” — Dan Brill
THIS PAGE: (TOP) Ben Peterson looks to see if cadets in Beginner Bagpipes are producing consistency in their playing through focusing on the rudiments that are combined with the melody to create the unique tunes performed on the bagpipe. (BOTTOM) Dan Brill works with cadets in his Performance Drumming class on drilling two-bar phrases to help memorize the piece and develop technique. OPPOSITE PAGE: The Pipes and Drums of SJNMA rehearse in Noble Victory Memorial Chapel on November 12, 2019.
12
WINTER 2020
St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy | THE BEACON
An Academy Tradition Continues Educating young musicians begins with having instructors who can leave SJNMA,” Ben states. “There is a fantastic community that pass on what they have learned through many years of practice and exists for this Celtic art outside the walls of SJNMA, one that competition—and still compete. Ben began playing bagpipes at age has brought me a great many opportunities, experiences and nine. He has been competitive since age 11, and has been actively friendships that I otherwise would not have had.” involved with solo instruction and band leadership since he was 15. “I agree that experience in the classroom leads to many Outside of SJNMA, he provides solo instruction as well as teaches opportunities outside of school,” Dan says. “Having relocated group and band workshops. He is currently the Pipe Major of the several times as a young man, I discovered Greater Midwest Pipe Band based through band classes and similar out of Battle Creek, Michigan. “ Our goal is ... to give cadets a network that programs that musicians are everywhere Dan has been playing drums since to immediately relate to and work will support and provide for them long after age 14. He is a full-time professional alongside. Many SJNMA cadets can musician and drumming teacher, graduation, and as a result, will spread the word relate as they hail from around the globe. providing solo instruction outside of I believe music and the arts, performing and merits of SJNMA to a global community.” SJNMA as well. He enjoys passing on and otherwise, brings together those who theoretical tools, musical knowledge may not have ever met. The bonds and — Ben Peterson friendships made out of this dynamic and practical technique to his many dedicated drumming students. He experience may last a lifetime.” currently serves as Drum Sergeant for the Chicago Highlanders Ben concludes, “Our goal is for the pipes and drums program to Pipe Band on parade and in competition throughout the Midwest. give cadets a network that will support and provide for them long “We hope to provide all cadets that partake in this program with after graduation, and as a result, will spread the word and merits of the ambition to continue practicing the art they learn here as they SJNMA to a global community.”
THE BEACON | St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy
WINTER 2020
13
Cadets Help Deserving Families Through Appalachia Service Project M
ore than 15,000 volunteers from around the country served with Appalachia Service Project (ASP) in rural Central Appalachia last year, repairing homes for low income families. However, ASP is more than just a building program. Yes, Appalachia’s poorest families urgently need your help, but they can help change your life, too. Just ask Cadets Zachary Gargano 2020 and Sebastian Stadler 2020, who have participated in ASP since 2017 and 2018, respectively. “At first, I thought I was going on the ASP trip to help deserving families less fortunate than me. Now looking back, I realize that the families I have met have helped me just as much. My time spent there not only allowed me to improve the lives of others, but also to gain valuable life skills which I believe have helped me achieve greater success in all aspects of my life,” said Cadet Gargano. Cadet Stadler agreed, “Usually when people think about having to do things like construction and building, they see it as just tiresome labor. I would be lying if I said this wasn’t how I felt before my first trip. When Zach finally convinced me to go, I was skeptical that any fun was to be had. When we got to the work site, I was quickly proven wrong. Yes, the work wasn’t easy, but it wasn’t as horrible as I had thought. Soon I realized just how cool the people around me were. Gradually over the week, we formed some pretty strong bonds. When the week came to a close, I was actually sad to go.” ASP is open all summer for volunteers of all ages (completed 8th grade and up). “ASP provides housing and meals while we are there. They ensure we have safe
14
WINTER 2020
RIGHT: Cadets Sebastian Stadler 2020 and Zachary Gargano 2020 (bottom steps) at the Virginia worksite in 2018.
“ My time spent there not only allowed me to improve the lives of others, but also allowed me to gain valuable life skills which I believe have helped me achieve greater success in all aspects of my life.” — Cadet Zachary Gargano 2020
homes for us to work in and materials to do the jobs. The structure is set up so we just bring a good attitude and the desire to help people,” said Cadet Gargano.
repaired stairs, built wheelchair ramps, and fixed windows in horrible heat. It’s hard work, but the satisfaction I get from helping the families makes it all worth it.”
Cadets Gargano and Stadler are grateful for the experience ASP has given to them. Cadet Stadler said, “I was so excited to go again. Soon enough, we were loading the vans to get going to Tennessee. I was ecstatic to see that my favorite of the friends I had made last time had returned.” Cadet Gargano added, “I always know I’m going to work hard when I go. Over the three trips I’ve been on we’ve patched roofs, installed siding,
In a region where there is an alarming rate of abject poverty and destitution, the hearts are big and their appreciation is even bigger. Cadet Stadler said, “The expressions of genuine gratitude and the feeling of making a profound impact on these peoples’ lives really hits deep. ASP isn’t really work, but an opportunity to help all of these people out, and I am so glad that I did.”
St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy | THE BEACON
Exciting Academic Curriculum Enhancements on the Horizon A
top priority for the 2019-2020 school year in the academic department has been to increase the number of advanced courses and provide more opportunities for cadets to challenge themselves academically. To begin, two new honors courses were developed for entry-level high school, English 9 Honors and World History Honors. One of the goals in creating these courses was to ensure that our curriculum offers honors-level opportunities at every grade level in the core content areas of English, history, math, and science. Furthermore, it provides a strong foundation for motivated cadets to begin preparing themselves for the necessary study habits, standards and demands of higher-level advanced placement (AP) or honors courses in the future. In addition to these new courses, Biology Honors, offered again for the first time in several years, and Chemistry Honors have undergone curriculum reviews and changes, new textbooks, and a focus on engaging cadets in current scientific issues to ensure they are up-to-date in the latest advances in science. Looking ahead to the 2020-2021 school year, the science department will add Physics 2, an honors course for cadets inspired to continue learning physics after they have taken the standard physics course.
“ One of the goals ... was to ensure that our curriculum offers honors-level opportunities at every grade level in the core content areas of English, history, math, and science.” - Stephanie Ihler, Academic Dean The middle school cadets have also benefited from additions to the curriculum. This year, another goal was to extend our Project Lead The Way (PLTW) offerings to the middle school. The PLTW courses, Principles of Engineering (POE) and Introduction to Engineering and Design (IED), have been offered for many years at the high school level. However, in order
THE BEACON | St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy
to plant the seeds early for an interest in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM), and to begin developing critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and design in these areas using technology, the PLTW middle school curriculum called Gateway was added in which different modules and areas of focus can change from year-to-year. This has been added as a required part of the middle school curriculum to challenge cadets, and it has gotten off to a great start! Perhaps one of the most exciting academic developments this year is that a group of teachers is in the process of developing five new AP courses for the 2020-2021 school year. In addition to the potential of earning college credit while still in high school, the AP curriculum alone helps high school cadets prepare for college with its high standards for achievement, offers a high level of rigor in the course content, and prioritizes the development of the reading and writing skills that are necessary to be successful in college. In the 2020-2021 school year, SJNMA will offer AP courses in English Language and Composition, Chemistry, Calculus, Computer Science, and European History. These college prep courses will be offered in addition to the Dual Credit option, which is credit given to meet high school graduation requirements and college credit, option that are currently offered through University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee in Biology, Statistics, English, and U.S. History. For motivated cadets, there are many opportunities to earn several college credits, and to prepare for the high standards and academic rigor of college while still at SJNMA. It is a busy and exciting year for our academic department! BELOW, LEFT: During Introduction to Engineering Design on September 11, 2019, Cadets Payton Varghese 2022 (left) and Benjamin Vie 2023 place a fan directed at an ice bath in a bucket. The forced air from the fan will blow over the ice bath and out vents in the sides of the bucket to create cool air as a simple room air conditioner. RIGHT: Cadets Paola Nieto 2025 (left) and Philip Broderick 2025 are collaborating on a foam puzzle in Project Lead The Way Gateway on November 12, 2019. They are sketching and measuring pieces to make directions and adapt the puzzle for a child with Cerebral Palsy.
WINTER 2020
15
Development Update
Annual Appreciation Dinner
T
his year’s Heritage Society Appreciation Dinner was held on Thursday, October 3, 2019, and included some very special moments for all who attended. Members and guests were first invited to a private premiere showing of The Lincoln Washington Original Historic U.S. Flags Collection sponsored by Delafield entrepreneur Bob Lang and the Academy. Exquisitely displayed on campus in Mouso Hall, this one-of-a-kind exhibit presented over 100 portraits, artifacts and original U.S. flags including portraits of Presidents Lincoln and Washington, Generals Grant and Lee, and numerous battle scenes and sculptures. Subsequent to the showing, everyone enjoyed a delicious dinner in Welles Dining Hall while the following newest members of The Heritage Society were inducted and welcomed by Board Chairman Michael Henn and President Tom Stocks: American Dining Creations, parents Bert and Evelyn Chauff, Bill and Mary Parker S1959, and Tom and Marie Stocks S1969. David and Judy Carl S1983 were honored for elevating in membership as was parent Pat Kampling who was unable to attend. Cadet Michael McNee 2020, emcee for the evening, reintroduced Mr. Henn for a special presentation of the Chairman’s Distinguished Service Medal. This newly created medal is awarded to individuals who have
differentiated themselves through meritorious actions that clearly demonstrate the Academy’s core values. Chairman Henn recognized 17 individuals (listed below) and thanked them for their generosity and service. Following the presentation of medals, Heritage Society members and guests were treated to speeches delivered by cadets Skyler Chauff 2020 and Sophie Zielinski 2023. Sophie shared her experiences after attending the Academy for just a couple of months. “Despite a rocky start, I grew accustomed to life at St. John’s Northwestern and learned to thrive, even if it meant learning completely new rules … I plan to continue to learn and grow from those around me. Knowing how to listen to everyone, no matter what race, age or gender, is an important component of improving. I’m determined to influence those around me in a positive way and to represent the females of St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy.” Skyler, this year’s battalion commander, attributes his success to the Academy, among others, and thanked the Academy by saying, “I am the product of your generous gifts and for that, I thank you from the bottom of my heart.” (See the article on Skyler on pages 4-5 of this issue.) The Academy proudly salutes its members of The Heritage Society. Thank you all for your vision that leads to our successes!
CHAIRMAN’S Distinguished Service Medal Recipients Dr. Crain and Mrs. Maggie Bliwas N1965 David and Judy Carl S1983 Anthony Giammanco S1980 Randall Giammanco S1980 Kim Henn Michael Henn H2016
16 16
ISSUE YEAR WINTER 2020
William and Susan Hummel N1968, H2010 Anthony Lazzara S1948 Fred and Teri Leach S1974 Tom Polivka S1977 Walter and Kathleen Snodell H2018 Lilah Stangeland H1999
St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy | THE BEACON
“ I just want to speak from the heart and say I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for donors like you. I was not born smart. I wasn’t born athletic. I wasn’t anything. I certainly wasn’t born to go to West Point. I was trained by the faculty, the military staff, my teachers, and was made something because of the people in this room.” – Skyler Chauff 2020, First Captain of the 136th Corps of Cadets
1
2
3
4
1: Heritage Society members Joe Giammanco N1970, Maggie Bliwas, Judy Carl and David Carl S1983 enjoyed some time together before dinner.
5
2: More than a dozen cadets were invited to attend this year’s Heritage Society dinner. Pictured left to right are Caitlynn Curtis 2021, Kevin Ruston 2023, Sophie Zielinski 2023, Michael McNee 2020 and Ricardo Barnes 2020. 3: Parents Bert and Evelyn Chauff received their Bronze medals and certificate from Chairman Henn and President Stocks. 4: Bill Parker S1959 (pictured) and his wife, Mary, were inducted into The Heritage Society at the Bronze level of the Smythe Circle. 5: Tom Polivka S1977 was one of 17 individuals to receive the inaugural Chairman’s Distinguished Service Medal from Chairman of the Board Michael Henn H2016.
THE THEBEACON BEACON ||St.St.John’s John’sNorthwestern NorthwesternMilitary MilitaryAcademy Academy
WINTER ISSUE YEAR 2020
17 17
Homecoming & Families Weekend Thank you to everyone who attended the Honored Athlete Breakfast, Fall Fest Fundraiser, football game, and inaugural “Smoker” event during Homecoming & Families Weekend on Saturday, October 5, 2019!
Honored Athletes Chris and Ricky Tan 1999 were the 2019 Honored Athletes. Pictured left to right are (front row) Dominic and Vinny Tan, and (back row) Genevieve, Devra, Chris, Ricky and Grace Tan.
Pig & Chicken Roast Cadets and their families enjoyed the annual OBAA Pig & Chicken Roast.
Thank you to our generous sponsors! Presidential $10,000
Beacon $5,000
Lancers Halftime at the Football Game Presented by John Leone in Memory of Rick Leone S1975
Food Buffet at the “Smoker” Event Presented by
Founder $1,884 Michael and Kim Henn H2016 Chairman of the Board of Trustees
Lilah Stangeland H1999 Trustee
Randy and Wendi Lauer Parents; Trustee
Ricky and Grace Tan 1999 Trustee
The Polivka Family: Jack S1944 – Trustee, Tom S1977, Vlad 2018
18
WINTER 2020
St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy | THE BEACON
Car Show — Thank you to parent Mike Woznicki and the Muskego Corvette Club for driving in more than 40 Corvettes to showcase during Fall Fest!
Band — Ben Harold, Throwback Stereo and Blind Fiction entertained the crowd during Fall Fest.
Cadet Cristobal Serrano 2024 and his family
Dunk Tank — (left to right) Cadet Max Custode 2022 excitedly tries to dunk someone! Cadet Payton Varghese 2022 was a terrific sport in the dunk tank on a very cold day. Cadets had a great time at Fall Fest before their football game.
Smoker Event Jeff Wiese, football coach, volunteered at the inaugural “Smoker” event. Proceeds benefited the athletics program.
THE BEACON | St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy
WINTER 2020
19
www.sjnma.org/donatenow
“As a cadet, I am expected to always give my best. When considering a gift to the Academy, will you give yours?”
Giving your best makes leadership possible. There are many ways to give your best. Stocks Pay less tax, give more, and improve your personal cash flow by simplifying your giving through stocks and/or mutual funds.
20
WINTER 2020
IRA Charitable Distribution If you are over age 70 ½, you are eligible to use your required minimum distribution (RMD) for charitable purposes.
Sustained Giving Join The 1884 Society by pledging a minimum gift of $1,884 for three consecutive years to help the Academy accurately plan for the future.
Matching Gifts Check with your employer to see if SJNMA would qualify for an employer match of your charitable contribution. You could double your impact.
Recurring Gifts Set up a recurring gift online today! It’s a fast, flexible, secure, and simple way to automatically impact a cadet’s future.
St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy | THE BEACON
2018-2019 Honor Roll of Donors Thank you to our 2018-2019 supporters who gave their best to help us make the fiscal year a success! Gifts to the Academy have an immediate impact on our students. Whether your specific donation created or bolstered student scholarships, impacted academic or recreational facilities, or upgraded technology and classroom infrastructure, please know that every dollar makes a tremendous difference in the life of our beloved school. In all, cash gifts from more than 800 donors totaled $2.9 million! Your unwavering commitment to St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy is gratefully acknowledged in this 2018-2019 Honor Roll of Donors and beyond.
Thank you for your continued investment in our future leaders!
www.sjnma.org THE BEACON | SUPPLEMENT | St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy
2018 - 2019 REPORT TO DONORS
S1
Thank you for your continued investment in our future leaders.
The Year in Giving 2018-2019
Highlights of the Year in Giving
Contributed Dollars by Constituency
TOTAL DOLLARS RECEIVED Annual Fund (operations plus other non-budget gifts)...................$2,780,551
Alumni $728,161 (25.11%)
Board of Trustees $1,361,032 (46.92%)
Capital ...........................................................................................$12,000 Endowment ..............................................................................$107,794 Total ............................................................................ $2,900,345
PARTICIPATION BY CONSTITUENCY Board of Trustees............................................................................100% Faculty and Staff............................................................................... 96% OBAA Board of Directors.............................................................. 73% Parents of Cadets............................................................................. 40% Alumni (227 gave).......................................................................... 5.5% Parents of Alumni........................................................................... 4.9%
FALL FEST FUNDRAISER (Gross)....................................$43,413 CADET PHONATHON..........................................................$54,725 THE EXCALIBUR: PRESIDENT’S GALA (Gross)..............................................$271,950 ESTATE GIFTS RECEIVED..............................................$106,956 S2
2018 - 2019 REPORT TO DONORS
Foundations, Vendors, Corporations, Donor Organizations $240,888 (8.30%) Faculty and Staff, Friends, Other $157,426 (5.44%) Parents of Cadets $203,373 (7.01%)
Parents of Alumni $209,465 (7.22%)
Great care was taken to prepare this Honor Roll that reflects gifts received from July 1, 2018 – June 30, 2019. Please accept our apologies for any errors or omissions and contact Cindy A. Trione, director of donor relations and special events, with any concerns at (262) 646-7289 or ctrione@sjnma.org.
St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy | SUPPLEMENT | THE BEACON
Giving your best makes leadership possible.
Honor Roll of Donors
REFLECTS GIFTS RECEIVED DURING THE FISCAL YEAR JULY 1, 2018 – JUNE 30, 2019. DONOR GIFT CLUB MEMBERSHIP The Heritage Society........................................................................................................137 households
(lifetime membership for those who have made a cash gift of at least $25,000 or included the Academy in their estate plans)
Leaders Circle .....................................................................................................................174 households
(those who gave $1,000 or more to the Academy’s Annual Fund during fiscal year 2019)
The 1884 Society.............................................................................29 households (2 new, 9 renewed)
(those who have made a three-year commitment of at least $1,884 each year to the Annual Fund)
The Heritage Society ($25,000 or more) American Food & Vending Enterprises, Inc. Anonymous David and Judy Carl S’83 Randy Carl S’75 Andrew J. “Flip” Filipowski and Melissa Oliver S’68
The Estate of Norm and Polly Godfrey S’45 † Patricia Kampling Lancer Hospitality John A. Leone in Honor of Rick Leone S’75 †
Walt and Kathy Snodell H’18 Lilah Stangeland H’99 and Roger Stangeland † S’47
The “H. M.” Founder’s Circle ($10,000-$24,999) Bruce and Anne Marie Adreani S’67 Anonymous Dr. Crain and Mrs. Maggie Bliwas N’65 The George H. Boomer, Sr. N’39 † Fund Designated of The Saint Paul Foundation Allan and Jennifer Duté S’59 Kathleen Goggins Michael F. H’16 and Kim Henn Weiguang Jia
Jack and Sugar Kirsch S’45; H’00 Randall and Wendi Lauer Anthony † and Joan Lazzara S’48 Fred and Teri Leach S’74 Phyllis Leach Dr. Ellen B. Macfarland Frank and Susan Morley S’63 John and Patty Mueller S’81 Alex Olhovich and Monica Valazquez
Anthony and Maureen Orsini / American Endowment Foundation Bill and Mary Parker S’59 Dr. Brett and Mrs. Kara Rhode Ken and Pat Schneider Dr. Ed and Mrs. Carla Schoenenberger Jack and Peggy Sturm S’54 The Ken and Nancy Woodrow Family Foundation
Davidson Society ($5,000-$9,999) Dr. Jack H’15 and Mrs. Betty Albert Jeffrey Bain Bard and Kathy Boand N’67 Bradford Renassaince Portraits Corp. Bravo Company USA, Inc. Bill and Cassie Brink Brett and Laura Carlson Bill and Diane Cary S’65 Rick H’15 and Sheri Dana VADM Dirk and Mrs. Terry Debbink The Esteban Family Neil and Debra Fairfield
Joseph and Linda Giammanco N’70 Pablo Gonzalez and Daniela Garza Tijerina Robert and Karen Hawksley Carl and Debra Hendrickson S’70 Merideth Hmura Stan and Annie Hooker S’62 Ray and Marilyn Jones David Mattox and Chasiti Mattox-Lenhert Stephen and Kelly Matz The Polivka Family S’77 Tim Prevo and Amy SoHang Choi Frank Rant S’59
THE BEACON | SUPPLEMENT | St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy
Dr. Matthew and Mrs. Rebecca Roggensack Tom and Marie Stocks S’69 Ricky and Grace Tan ‘99 Lei Tian and Keyuan Jiang Joe and Asha Varghese Bob and Judy Waller S’46
KEY: † Deceased Heritage Society Member Leaders Circle Member The 1884 Society Member
2018 - 2019 REPORT TO DONORS
S3
Thank you for your continued investment in our future leaders.
President’s Club ($1,000-$4,999) Dr. Adekunle and Mrs. Victoria Adesokan Arthur Albert S’46 Scott and Angila Allen Howard and Frankie Alper S’47 Anonymous (2) Helen Armer Willard Askew, Jr. N’67; S’67 Bryan and Greta Atkinson Bret and Shadow Backus Richard and Kou Barnes Bartelt. The Remodeling Resource The Alben F. Bates & Clara G. Bates Foundation Ann Bederman Frederick and Jennifer Bensch Rebecca Boyle Bob and Nanette Bramlett S’70 Lee and Susan Breitkopf S’73 Mark Cameron and Lisa Iaquinta Kimberly and Brian Castellani, Lieutenant Colonel (Retired) Walt and Karen Casten S’63 Dr. Eric and Mrs. Marsha Christman Citizens for John Cullerton Concept Machine Tool Wisconsin The Honorable Joseph Cook Patricia Corbus Jim and Joyce Cunningham S’69 Daniel Cutting and Colleen Luce S’73 Eric and La Vina David Episcopal Diocese of Milwaukee, The Rt. Reverend Steven A. Miller and Mrs. Cindy Miller Rich † and Sue Ellbogen S’68
ESCO, Inc. J. C. Fairvalley S’76 James and Holly Fawley Mike and Karen Fink David Flegel S’56 Fletcher Fire Arms Samuel Garcia and Marciela Camerena Brondo Linda Go and Katherine Kinsella Frank † and Agnes Godchaux S’44 Fund, a Fund at Community Foundation of Acadiana Jeremy Goldstein ’10 John Green, Jr. John Hankwitz S’60 John Hayden and Jill Newman Jennifer Hipp Jerome “Bud” Hoffberg S’33 Mike and Barbara Hoover S’71 Human Talent, LLC: The Reisner Group William R. and Susan M. Hummel N’68; H’10 William and Moriah Hurst Gary and Deborah Jaeger Anthony and John Jensen Dr. Don and Mrs. Donna Jensen Dr. Craig and Mrs. Noreen Jordan S’67 Jeffrey and Stephanie Kastelic LTC and Mrs. James M. Kebisek, USA (Ret.) H’08 Mike and Marie Keefe Kettle Moraine Heating & Air Conditioning, LLC / Bill Brink Margaret Knell-Zalenas Terry Knueppel S’54
Paul and Anitamarie Kopaczewski H’09 Luke and Marta Kraft ’99 Theresa Kraft Chuck and Kimberly Krametbauer S’78 James and Janet Kuehn Keith and Virginia Laken N’64 Joe and Jamie LaRocca N’69 David Lau S’48 William and Margarida Laub Mr. Reginald and Dr. Beverly Layton David and Leslie Mann S’94 Dr. Edward Mann and Mrs. Joy Bentley Mann Maplewood Brewery and Distillery Ari Megalis ’00 Paul Megalis ’05 Edward and Janet Mardigian S’62 Warren and Mary Marik S’63 Drs. Lindsey and Mart McClellan Michael McClure S’60 Noel Meyer S’67 Dr. Richard and Mrs. Lotte Meyer S’57 John and Jan Miller S’62 Jonathan and Mary Miller Robert and Mary Miller S’63 Ellsworth Mills II N’44 Duane and Kathy Mlachnik S’80 Brendan and Peggy Moriarty MSI General Corporation Frank and Kathy Mungo S’83 Steve and Cheryl Murphy S’77 Larry Nelson S’65 Peter and Faith Nielsen
General Roy Farrand ($500-$999) Mohamud Abdulle and Yasmin Haji Christopher Allen Anonymous At the Green Bench Fashion Boutique Kent and Amy Attwell Robert and Judith Ayotte Melissa Bishop Steve Buck S’57 Daryl and Debra Bullerjahn Peter and Jodi Butzer
S4
2018 - 2019 REPORT TO DONORS
Cory and Kristin Byrnes ’09 Frank and Diane Calabrese H’14 David Chapman and Marsha Selmer N’68 Richard Dana John and Susan Davis Curt and Carrie Downes Everything Summer Camp Eye Candy Todd and Tonja Fritsche Brad Gapp S’91 / LG Electronics
Dr. Carol Ann Hackley Wally and Eileen Hankwitz S’63 A. J. Hodges S’62 Robert Kelly and Basia Bator S’67 Eric and Christine Kirkhofer Kollege Town Sports Don and Peg Koller H’17 Beverly Kuechenmeister Brandon LaVictor Bradley Lengeling
St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy | SUPPLEMENT | THE BEACON
Giving your best makes leadership possible.
President’s Club (cont.) Old Boys Alumni Association Sloan Oliver, USA (Ret.) S’73 Dave and Cyndi Olsen Hector Patron and Emilia Cevallos Barry and Rebecca Pechous Rudy Peckinpaugh, Jr. S’72 Mark Perry and Nina Mikhalevsky Perry N’69 Wanda Piper Bob and Betty Reeder Allyson Regas Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation David and Joyce Rolnick Michael and Wendy Rosen Richard Rosenthal, Jr. and Patricia De Boom Ted and Christine Roth S’74 Sharon Rouette Safari Club International Wisconsin Chapter Inc. Charles Sansone N’58 Steve & Delores Sarovich Foundation Bob and Judy Schell S’64 Floyd and Ina Schlossberg S’55 Ann Schoper Randy and Mary Jo Schueller Joe and Sue Sevenz SJNMA Parents Club Soat-Vergenz VFW Post No. 721 George and Sarah Sotos S’64 Daniel and Kristy Sreenan Brad and Marcia Stocks Christopher Surville S’82 H. W. Suter Foundation Melissa Tanke
John and Kay Trebellas S’55 Mike and Cindy Trione Greg and Susan Van Praag S’72 Gary and Laura Vandenbroucke Wade and Mary Voltz S’78 Stephen and Angela Walmsley The Rev. Geoffrey and Valerie Ward
Jervis and Diana Webb S’60 Martha Wicker Joanne Wiechers H’11 Cadet Junkang Wu ’20 John and Brenda Yagla Patti Zager David and Laura Zirngibl ’02
Stephanie Schreurs and Alex Oliver Dorota Sniezynski William and Kathleen Steinborn Steven Paul Designs Chris and Devra Tan ’99 Steve and Anne Tews Liliana Van Duzer Miguel Vargas Torres and Laura Meljem SGM Edgar A. Voss S’71 John and Sandi Wietzel S’64
John Williams and Monica Gamba Labastida Woodman’s Markets Miljohn and Victoria Zeravich
General Roy Farrand (cont.) Lombard Studios William † and Lois Lynch S’48 Anat Moskowitz Christine Nolan David and Deborah O’Keefe N’79 Vladimir Polivka ’18 Kyle Popek ’00 Peter Regas Reilly, Penner & Benton, LLP Matthew Reno S’62
THE BEACON | SUPPLEMENT | St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy
KEY: † Deceased Heritage Society Member Leaders Circle Member The 1884 Society Member
2018 - 2019 REPORT TO DONORS
S5
Thank you for your continued investment in our future leaders.
Kemper-DeKoven Club ($250-$499) John and Donna Adler S’55 Advanced Disposal-Hartland Joe and Kathy Alagna S’65 Anonymous Donna Basely Belfre Kitchen Bishops Bay Country Club Peter and Kelley Boas Lou and Sue Boers Richard Bohn S’72 Marvin Bornschlegl Peirce and Ann Brawner N’46 Philip and Kathy Brawner N’49 Dennis Brooks Paul Buffoni and Tammy Spice-Buffoni Tom and Barb Busse N’60 Corey and Kristen Butler
Bill and Marilyn Campbell S’51 Ruth Christofferson Cintas City Screen Print & Embroidery Michael and Mary Crulcich Bret Cummings / LW Meyer Fr. Richard Deitch † S’58 Delzer Commercial Print Richard and Shelby DePas Dick and Margaret Diefendorf S’65 Michael and Kierstyn Dovorany ’98 Jimmie and Ann Duggan H’81; H’13 LaVerne and Mary Evans S’47 The Very Reverend Canon Jonathan J. Filkins N’69 Steve and Roberta Fremgen S’64 John Galley N’58 Kevin Gigax
Glendale Parade Store David and Janet Grabacki Robert Greene S’73 Carlos and Anne Gutierrez Ferrete S’91 James High Hoffmann Murtaugh Advertising Edward Jasper S’79 Waring Jenkins N’52 Robert Johannsen S’75 Kimball Midwest Daniel and Katie Koniecko S’93 Libby Koszuta Anthony and Christine Kreiter Ernie and Anita Kurtock S’52 John Kurtz S’69 Joe and Nancy Lazzara S’69 Sandy Lindholm
Terrence and Stephanie McCabe Nathan and Jennifer McKean Kurt Mikolite S’77 Charles Miller S’55 Mark Moldenhauer Oconomowoc Sign Company Office Copying Equipment Ltd. Jonathan and Amanda Otto Mongha Park and Young me Nam-Park The Donald and Virginia Raths Family Charitable Fund Red Circle Inn and Bistro / Norm and Martha Eckstaedt Mark Reinders and Sheridan Ryan Kristin Rex Jeff and Pat Roggensack Dan Rosenfeld
Denis Fraser and Linda Manson Fraser Freedom Arms Froggtoggs Marcus Fruchter and Mitzi Baum S’92 Anna Gagnon Lonney and Jaye Getlin N’63 Jeffrey and Alexandra Giammanco ’08 Stephanie Gillette David Goetz Thomas and Rachel Goetz Mark and Judy Goodrich S’66 Gordon Foods Dr. Michael and Mrs. Kathryn Gotthardt S’60 Jeffery Grant William and Caroline Guanell S’55 Douglas and Jane Guffy Christian Habitz Dr. Dean and Mrs. Sandra Hagness Richard Hargrave Jody and Zara Harper John and Teresa Harrington N’61 Thomas and Shelia Harrington Gloria Heinen Ted Heyer N’54 Dane Hiteman N’93 Earl Hoover S’61
Jim and Kathy Hoover S’76 Francis and Kathleen Hope Hornady Manufacturing Nancy Hunkel Lester and Judith Jacobs Paul and Donna Jakstas N’58 Scott and Cindie Joers Sally Johnson Joe and Brenda Johnston S’60 Nicholas and Lindy Kanavas S’84 Dr. Nickie Kerna N’71 Kettle Moraine Golf Club Jimmy King S’79 Ed and Anne Klein PNCM and Mrs. Edward M. Koch, Jr., USN (Ret.) S’71 Richard and Jacqueline Koechlein N’58 Margaret Krahe Kyle Kreiter ’12 Stanley and Phyllis Kupiszewski S’50 Kwik Trip-Delafield Lake Country Cigars Kirk Langbehn S’78 Clifford Lardinois, Jr. and Patricia DuMond S’63 David Lass Carl and Jerilyn Laurino Lawson Products
Beacon Club ($100-$249) Albright Gun Works Aryl and June Aldred S’53 Olivia Allen Amazon Smile Foundation AmericInn Hotel & Suites Delafield Anonymous Douglas and Marisela Arnold Arrow Magnolia International Beth Ayotte Jason Babiar S’87 Roger Bailey S’92 Dennis and Diana Baker Bill and Patricia Ballhorn S’60 Joe and Valencia Barlow S’81 Ben Shot Judith Berger Bill’s Gun Shop Ronald and Sally Bloomingdale S’56 Paul Borens Dr. Thomas and Mrs. Barbara Bruns Chad Bruss ’99 Henry and Susan Bucklin S’70 Capitol Bank Jonathan and Janice Carbary S’68 Robert and Sherry Carter S’65 Malcolm and Jeanne Cauldwell S’61 Vicki Chang Craig and Melinda Cheetham
S6
Eric and Elizabeth Chudzik Steven Ciganek ’03 Clearview Home Corporation Ross and Marla Collins Craig Berns Salon Spa Harry and Patricia Crawford S’69 Randy and Joann Crump Rodean Crump Culver’s Oscar and Elaine Dahl Brian and Judith Daub Mike Dayton and Therese Matthews S’71 Delafield Brewhaus Delafield Family Dental The Delafield Hotel Development Services Corporation Joseph DiFrances S’67 James and Janine Dobson Mike H’84 and Laurie Dolan Duck Commander Andrei Dzenis and Pamela Holsen Elliott & Associates Attorneys PC Lynn Fasi Dr. Lee and Mrs. Stephanie Faucher Michael Fillichio S’88 Rafael Flores and Gloria Chevere Virginia Foley
2018 - 2019 REPORT TO DONORS
St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy | SUPPLEMENT | THE BEACON
Giving your best makes leadership possible.
Kemper-DeKoven Club (cont.) Sean and Lisa Sander S’80 Rudolph Schlosser, III and Stephanie Lane S’80 Scholastic Clay Target Program Tim’s Auto Parts Alois Vana S’52 Donald and Julie Visser S’68 Lavette Walls Brad Wasielewski James Wilke S’59 Shirley Williams Susan Zenda
Beacon Club (cont.) Gary and Patricia Lehman David and Ann Leiker Stephan and Joanne Lewandowski S’71 Charlie and Patricia Lindberg S’64 William and Carol Lord August and Peg Luedke N’69 Erik Lund ’00 Curtis Lusk N’71 Thomas and Donna Lynch Dean and Sarah Mair Phil Mann Michael Marshall and Jeanette Guillaume-Marshall Karen Masters Dr. Douglas and Mrs. Marta McDowell The Honorable Margaret D. McGarity and Mr. Jeffrey R. Riepl Merganser Fund (Bradt Family) Kimberly Metcalf The James and Estelle Milch S’55 Fund of the Jewish Community Foundation William Milford and Cindy Parks Milford Charles Miller Marilyn Miller SCPO Shannon Miller Edmund Moeller and Betty Harris
Terry and Hallie Moline Michael and Patricia Montemurro Edward and Catherine Moore S’47 Marty Munvez and Angela Verono Nate Myers S’74 MAJ and Mrs. Richard H. Nelson, USA (Ret.) N’69 Lance and Holly Newman Next Door Boutique Aileen Noll Per Normark and Cynthia Price Tim and Julie O’Malley Orangetheory Fitness Dan and Pam Otis Jim and Debra Parks S’65 Roger and Chris Pawsat N’61 Oliver and Susan Perry S’67 Greg Peters ’05 Kent and Kimberley Peters S’73 Dr. Randy Peters S’74 Annie Petersen Larry and Patricia Petersen Edward and Nadine Pflueger Martin Pitzer Joseph and Mary Plese John Podziemski Richard and Gail Polin N’49 Michael and April Prescott Priority Messenger Service
Greg Prospero Pure Barre Delafield Carl and Donna Rapp S’69 James and Georgia Regas Col. and Mrs. Bert L. Rice, USA (Ret.) Suzanne Sass Winette Saunders Armond and Janice Schmidt Frederick and Janet Schmidt Timothy Schneider Tom Schoettler S’71 Carol Schott H’84 Wayne Schreck S’62 Leroy and Jeanne Schwaba S’47 Jeffrey Seeliger Seven-Up Bottling Company Jessy Sharp ’13 Alex Shchekin and Elena Romas Josh Sheeran Ken and Tricia Shields S’68 Perry H’97 and Amy Siebers Carl Slocum and Glenda Mounger-Slocum Richard H. Smith S’61 Rick and Charlie Smoot Linda Snyder Thomas Sobota Brian and Sandy Staffeldt Starbucks
THE BEACON | SUPPLEMENT | St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy
Luke and Dawn Staudenmaier Henry and Sylvia Stec Michael and Barbara Steger S’44 Arthur and Carol Ann Stephan N’64 Paul Stephens and Ann Andre-Stephens Walter and Verna Thompson S’47 Michael Toland LTC Herbert “Scott” Trapp, USAF, Ret. S’69 Tina Vandenelzen Paul and Andrea Vie Richard and Barbara Wagner S’59 Tarielle Walls Ross Wandschneider S’54 Pete and Lori Waskel S’76 SGT Christopher J. Wheatley, USA ’04 Bill and Theresa Wiles S’66 Nancy Williams Allen and Rochelle Wittkopf S’58 Zihda Zhang and Qingxia Peng
KEY: † Deceased Heritage Society Member Leaders Circle Member The 1884 Society Member
2018 - 2019 REPORT TO DONORS
S7
Thank you for your continued investment in our future leaders.
Friends of the Academy (Gifts to $99) Accident by Design Adventure Rock Scott and Lynette Ahlgren H’11, H’19 Albrecht Foods, Inc. Michael Allen Jeff and Theresa Ambord Corey Ammons ’13 Bradley and Donna Anderson LTC and Mrs. Matthew J. Anderson, USA (Ret.) N’66 Anonymous Reed and Kay Anton S’86 Patrick and Therese Antony Avant Garden Florist Joseph Banyai N’84 Bill Barder The Barn Owl Joel and Kristina Baxter Heidi Beck BEER SNOBS Ale & Eats Jon Bennett Bentley’s Pet Stuff Berres Brothers Coffee Matthew and Barbara Bevenour James Beveridge Curt and Sandy Borgwardt S’63 Marzena Borowiec Ping Braatz Robert and Michelle Braman Tim Branch S’71 Jonathan Branski
S8
Beverly Branson Brian Brenner Dan Brill Karen Brooks Jaime L. Buege Bull Frogg C & A Self Storage The Cake Lady Hernan Casale Steve and Stacy Celichowski Michael Cerier ’08 SSG Roland Choate Bruce and Barbara Chrisman James and Therese Cieslewicz Chuck Coleman Susan Collar Albert and Sharon Cooper Ty Courtney Cream City Yarn William and Amy Czaplewski Cadet Zoie Dana ’21 Steve and Jennifer Daniels Curtis and Erika DeJean Johnathan Delfosse Santos and Erin DeNova Russ and Fae Diethert S’59 Brian Donaldson Charles and Diane Eastman Paul Edenhofer Robert Edgers N’48 Element Style Boutique Cody England
2018 - 2019 REPORT TO DONORS
Ewald Fleet Solutions Craig and Pam Fales N’64 Donald Falk Timothy Farris Patrick and Jodi Fath Quinn Feller Debbie Firkus Fishbone’s Cajun & Creole Restaurant Five Guys Burgers and Fries Ashley Flatland Fleet Farm Adam Frame Nancy French Nicholas Fritsch Jake and Lisa Funk Juan Garcia Gary’s Auto Repair, Inc. Gregory Gaskins S’87 Lauren Genthe Dr. Charles and Mrs. Carolyn Gerwick David Gold Angie Gonzalez Teresa Gutierrez Eric Hafeli Carl and Elise Hankwitz S’59 Sandy Harrington Henery Firearms Mike and Dawn Hennes Trinita Hersey Erik and Nikki Hill
Harriet Himes Dr. Craig and Mrs. Beth Holmes S’66 Honeypie Cafe HydeSyte Tactics Stephanie Ihler Conrad Jorgensen Robert and Sharon Keefe Joseph and Mary Beth Kiefer Kelly Kieler Theresa Klosinski Ann-Christin Kloth Knitch Russell and Rosemarie Koth Kurt’s Steakhouse Alex Labeots Barbara Labeots Jim and Fran Langerfeld Laura Langreder Paula Larsen Pat Latshaw Will Laub ’09 Douglas and Royette Ledford S’61 Wayne Lemmon Karen Leonard Lt. Col. Fred Ley Nathan and Katy Littrell Yacine Makhlouf Rev. Timothy Manwell Richard and Colleen Mark S’70 Tom and Amy Marshall Mathews Archery, Inc. Tom and Polly Mauer
St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy | SUPPLEMENT | THE BEACON
Giving your best makes leadership possible.
Jill Mazurek Mr. Momar Mbengue and Ms. Juliette Moutinou Brian and Margaret Mary McClaren ’06 Donnell and Sandra McGough N’55 Kathleen McNamara Diane Meixelsperger Anthony and Stacy Menting Ken and Lisa Miles Cindy Milgram Jared and Frieda Miller S’54 Minuteman Press Brookfield Mark and Kim Miselnicky Alan and Chris Moon N’62 John and Nancy Murray David and Hannah Muse Daniel and Jessica Newton Richard and Denise Nierzwicki Nothing Bundt Cakes Steven and Laura Novick S’64 James and Sandra O’Brien SFC John S. Ong N’46 Veronica Otten Joan Paul David and Jessica Pederson
Margaret Pehl Picnic Basket Arthur Poyer Nikos and Nancy Reuss N’72 Elizabeth Reuter Revere’s Wells Street Tavern Jesus Riata Troy Rieman ’09 Scott and Karen Roberg S’74 Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory Breanna Rodriguez Jorge Rodriguez and Susana Quezada Joseph Roehrkasse ’13 Dr. Robert H’07 and Mrs. Ann Roehrkasse Ana Romay Patrick Roob and Brittney RoobHourigan ’07 Nicholas and Molly Root Norman and Merline Rouse Dean and Julie Rupnow Duane and Judy Rutherford Nicole Rutherford Patrick Ryan and Jennifer Moos Bill and Stephanie Sanders S’74
Edwin and Jill Scharf John Schmidt Nicole Scrima Dr. Pamela Seaman and Mr. John Seaman Dr. Robert and Mrs. Jennifer Seidl Senior Class of 2019 Timothy H’12 and Erin Shramek Mark Simpson and Carolyn Hudson SJNMA Cadet Store Richard and Sharon Slosar Anthony and Rejeanne Smaniotto Nathan Smith Bruce Speidel S’63 Michael Stadler and Holly Henrichs Stamper’s GreenhouseOconomowoc Brad Stangeland State Farm Insurance Lisa Stolz Dr. Joseph and Mrs. Peggy Storrs Top of the World SGM Paul C. Traver, USA (Ret.) N’53 Trijicon Deb Turnbull H’12 Uptown Art-Sussex
THE BEACON | SUPPLEMENT | St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy
Tim Vice Dr. John and Mrs. Kay Weiler Gregory and Barbara West Whale Tales Wheel & Sprocket Kathleen White White Flyer Jeff Wiese Alan and Beverly Wolfe Eric and Teresa Wozniak Robert Wright N’51 Dr. Tom Wright and Mr. David Wilcox Paul and Barb Zimmer COL Thomas Zimmerman, USA (Ret.) and Dr. Mary Povolny N’51 ZIN Uncommon California / Italian Restaurant
KEY: † Deceased Heritage Society Member Leaders Circle Member The 1884 Society Member
2018 - 2019 REPORT TO DONORS
S9
Thank you for your continued investment in our future leaders.
Behind the Numbers
Alumni Giving 2018-2019
St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy can only be as strong as its supporters, and for that – we thank you!
Interested in how you can help drive your class numbers?
Contact the development office at (262) 646-7118 for additional tools and strategies.
www.sjnma.org/donatenow ALUMNI GIFTS RECEIVED DURING THE FISCAL YEAR JULY 1, 2018 – JUNE 30, 2019 Class Yr. NMNA SJMA SJNMA Total Giving
Class Yr. NMNA SJMA SJNMA Total Giving
Class Yr. NMNA SJMA SJNMA Total Giving
1930 0 1931 0 1932 0 1933 0 1934 0 1935 0 1936 0 1937 0 1938 0 1939 0 1940 0 1941 0 1942 0 1943 0 1944 1 1945 0 1946 2 1947 0 1948 1 1949 2 1950 0 1951 2 1952 1 1953 1 1954 1 1955 1 1956 0 1957 0 1958 4 1959 0
1960 1 1961 2 1962 1 1963 1 1964 3 1965 1 1966 1 1967 2 1968 2 1969 4 1970 1 1971 2 1972 1 1973 0 1974 0 1975 0 1976 0 1977 0 1978 0 1979 1 1980 0 1981 0 1982 0 1983 0 1984 1 1985 0 1986 0 1987 0 1988 0 1989 0
1990 0 0 n/a $0 1991 0 1 n/a $310 1992 0 2 n/a $306 1993 1 1 n/a $453 1994 0 1 n/a $1,205 1995 n/a n/a 0 $0 1996 n/a n/a 0 $0 1997 n/a n/a 1 $300 1998 n/a n/a 1 $250 1999 n/a n/a 4 $9,886 2000 n/a n/a 2 $702 2001 n/a n/a 0 $0 2002 n/a n/a 1 $940 2003 n/a n/a 1 $135 2004 n/a n/a 1 $103 2005 n/a n/a 2 $303 2006 n/a n/a 1 $50 2007 n/a n/a 1 $30 2008 n/a n/a 2 $206 2009 n/a n/a 3 $705 2010 n/a n/a 1 $1,500 2011 n/a n/a 0 $0 2012 n/a n/a 1 $135 2013 n/a n/a 3 $241 2014 n/a n/a 0 $0 2015 n/a n/a 0 $0 2016 n/a n/a 0 $0 2017 n/a n/a 0 $0 2018 n/a n/a 0 $0
0 n/a $0 0 n/a $0 0 n/a $0 1 n/a $1,000 0 n/a $0 0 n/a $0 0 n/a $0 0 n/a $0 0 n/a $0 0 n/a $0 0 n/a $0 0 n/a $0 0 n/a $0 0 n/a $0 1 n/a $2,100 1 n/a $95,669 2 n/a $6,365 5 n/a $1,600 3 n/a $16,891 0 n/a $350 1 n/a $100 1 n/a $350 2 n/a $800 1 n/a $125 4 n/a $16,775 5 n/a $3,650 2 n/a $1,100 2 n/a $1,300 2 n/a $1,853 7 n/a $36,153
7 n/a $7,859 4 n/a $731 6 n/a $10,250 8 n/a $18,348 6 n/a $4,475 6 n/a $19,134 3 n/a $400 6 n/a $26,182 5 n/a $40,312 7 n/a $14,864 4 n/a $14,875 7 n/a $2,648 3 n/a $5,910 5 n/a $6,309 6 n/a $12,250 2 n/a $70,250 3 n/a $2,329 3 n/a $9,320 3 n/a $3,318 2 n/a $850 3 n/a $1,835 2 n/a $10,383 1 n/a $1,884 2 n/a $314,562 1 n/a $150 0 n/a $0 1 n/a $26 2 n/a $230 1 n/a $200 0 n/a $0
* Attention Classes of 1955, 1960, 1970, 1995 and 2010! Congratulations! You are celebrating a milestone reunion this school year. Why not consider a class legacy gift to celebrate your 65th, 60th, 50th, 25th or 10th reunion? What a great opportunity to continue the valuable lessons and shared experiences and reflect on how the Academy shaped and enriched your life. To get started, contact our dean of advancement Stephen Matz at (262) 646-7184. S10
2018 - 2019 REPORT TO DONORS
St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy | SUPPLEMENT | THE BEACON
Giving your best makes leadership possible.
Matching Gifts Applied Materials DonateWell ExxonMobil Foundation
Gifts in Memory of Carole Bartizal
LTC Leonard A. Greene
Sandy Lindholm Arthur and Carol Ann Stephan N’64
Marcus Fruchter and Mitzi Baum S’92 Paul and Anitamarie Kopaczewski H’09
Wilbert Busse N’34
Thomas Hackley N’44
Charles H. Bohon N’64
Tom and Barb Busse N’60
Reuben A. Connor S1899 Amy Taylor Schelich
Burton R. Corbus S’44 Patricia Corbus
Nason Cottington S’21 Robert and Sherry Reno
Bruce Eckersall S’62 Matthew Eckersall
Ned Fasel ’09 James and Holly Fawley
Samuel Gingold Dr. Edward Mann and Mrs. Joy Bentley Mann
John Green S’31 John Green, Jr.
True W. Green S’27 John Green, Jr.
Dr. Carol Ann Hackley
Robert Hansen S’35 Judith Berger
William Hillerman S’59 Russ and Fae Diethert S’59
Robert Hollingsworth S’64 Charlie and Patricia Lindberg S’64
David Hunkel S’54 Nancy Hunkel
Anthony Kampling Patrick Allen John Alli American Transmission Company Anjan Asthan Annie Bass Michael Bennett Border States Electric Briggs Stratton Corporation John and Kathryn Buono Frederick Buri Caren Byrd
Chapman Cutler, LLP Daniel Checki Karen Choi Concentric Energy Advisors Gerard and Amy Curti Michael and Maureen Domanico Deborah Dunie Robert Durian and Amy HamiltonDurian Joe Durow and Gail Mountford Ellen Eaton Kim Egan Daniel Ford Goldman Sachs Co. Ronald Graber Greater Horizons Scott and Nora Hamlin Noah Hauser Martin and Mary Higgins Al and Ericka Hodnik Intercon Construction Thomas Iten Jennifer Janecek Dave Jost Steven and Lynn Kaminski Matthew Kampling James and Linda Kipp Patricia Kirchheimer Raymond Kowalik John and Theresa Larsen William Libit
THE BEACON | SUPPLEMENT | St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy
Christopher and Jane Lindell Milton and Beryl Magle Myriam Mateus Mayville Engineering Company, Inc. Mr. and Mrs. Jeff McCarthy Sarah Mikrut Minnesota Power Michael Montaque Tom and Sue Mooney Jodi Powers Thomas Purcia Lisa Quilici Arlin Rummel Edward and Carol Sanders Joel and Sandra Schmidt J M Schroeder Dale and Holly Stockfleth Barbara Tormaschy Patty Triplett Susan Whiting Robert and Kathleen Wingert Wisconsin Manufacturers Commerce Michelle Yun
KEY: † Deceased Heritage Society Member Leaders Circle Member The 1884 Society Member
2018 - 2019 REPORT TO DONORS
S11
Thank you for your continued investment in our future leaders.
Gifts in Memory of (cont.) Laddie Korecek, Jr. S’73
William “Bill” Lynch S’48
PFC Michael J. Metcalf, USA ’08
Rudy Peckinpaugh, Jr. S’72
Timothy and Sharon Babe Dan Brockman Mark and Dorene Browning Jan Flanik Louann Geel Daniel and Lynn Hoover Paul and Anitamarie Kopaczewski H’09 Thomas and Donna Lynch Ralph and Nancy McEldowney Stephen and Pamela Mitchell Douglas Riffell Thomas and Roberta Sedlock Rita Shanesy Mike and Cindy Trione Frederick and Karen Unfried Margaret Westlund
Kimberly Metcalf
Iker Navarro Lazo ’99 Chris and Devra Tan ’99
Rick Leone S’75 John A. Leone
Dr. William Leppert N’51 Waring Jenkins N’52
MAJ Edison B. Lerch S’19 Rich † and Sue Ellbogen S’68 Gary and Deborah Jaeger Dr. Edward Mann and Mrs. Joy Bentley Mann Warren and Mary Marik S’63 Bob and Betty Reeder Richard Rosenthal, Jr. and Patricia De Boom John and Sandi Wietzel S’64 Shirley Williams
Jeffrey Manson ’98 Denis Fraser and Linda Manson Fraser
Donald C. Mattes S’46 Leroy and Jeanne Schwaba S’47
S12
2018 - 2019 REPORT TO DONORS
Scott Morrison S’72 Rudolph A. Peckinpaugh, Jr. S’72
LT COL Sam C. Oliver, USMC (Ret.) H’71 Sloan Oliver, USA (Ret.) S’73
Stephen Oliver S’72 Sloan Oliver, USA (Ret.) S’73
Thomas Parish N’52 Waring Jenkins N’52
Sarah Park-Tobin Mike and Cindy Trione
Rudolph A. Peckinpaugh, Sr. S’43 Rudolph A. Peckinpaugh, Jr. S’72
Eric Peters S’95 Brian and Judith Daub
Michael Peters N’58 Charles Sansone N’58
St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy | SUPPLEMENT | THE BEACON
Giving your best makes leadership possible.
Oleg Rakitski ’99 Chris and Devra Tan ’99
Robert Rydman S’39 William and Carol Lord
John Sotos S’60 George and Sarah Sotos S’64
Isaac Sprotte ’99 Chris and Devra Tan ’99
Brett Stangeland Mary Bastien James and Elizabeth Burkett Dennis Lyons Mary Lyons Annie Petersen Judith Telles John and Sandra Woolley
Kenneth Suter S’38 H. W. Suter Foundation
Rose G. Tobolski David and Judy Carl S’83 Mike and Cindy Trione
LtCol Herbert A. Trapp, USAF S’37 Matthew Reno S’62 Wayne Schreck S’62 LTC Herbert “Scott” Trapp, USAF, Ret. S’69
John Van Duzer S’43 Liliana Van Duzer
Harry and Fran Vorys S’43; H’87 Frederick and Janet Schmidt
Walter “Terry” Watkins S’64 Charlie and Patricia Lindberg S’64
John Wiechers N’54 Joanne Wiechers H’11
Kenneth Yonan S’65 Bill and Diane Cary S’65
KEY: † Deceased Heritage Society Member Leaders Circle Member The 1884 Society Member
THE BEACON | SUPPLEMENT | St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy
2018 - 2019 REPORT TO DONORS
S13
Thank you for your continued investment in our future leaders.
Gifts in Honor of Dr. Jack H’15 and Mrs. Betty Albert Scott and Angila Allen Dr. Crain and Mrs. Maggie Bliwas N’65 David and Judy Carl S’83 Michael and Mary Crulcich VADM Dirk and Mrs. Terry Debbink ESCO, Inc. Andrew J. “Flip” Filipowski and Melissa Oliver S’68 Joseph and Linda Giammanco N’70 David and Janet Grabacki Michael F. H’16 and Kim Henn Paul and Anitamarie Kopaczewski H’09 Joe and Jamie LaRocca N’69 Randall and Wendi Lauer Anthony † and Joan Lazzara S’48 Douglas and Royette Ledford S’61 Stephen and Kelly Matz Frank and Susan Morley S’63 Tim and Julie O’Malley Anthony and Maureen Orsini / American Endowment Foundation Mark Perry and Nina Mikhalevsky Perry N’69 Tim Prevo and Amy SoHang Choi Red Circle Inn and Bistro / Norm and Martha Eckstaedt Dr. Brett and Mrs. Kara Rhode Frederick and Janet Schmidt Walt and Kathy Snodell H’18 Lilah Stangeland H’99 and Roger Stangeland † S’47 Jack and Peggy Sturm S’54 Greg and Susan Van Praag S’72 Miljohn and Victoria Zeravich
Cadet Ella Butzer ’20
Cadet Liam Griffin ’20
NMNA Former Faculty
Linda Snyder
William and Kathleen Steinborn
Edmund Moeller and Betty Harris
Cadet George Butzer ’21
Ashley Jablonski
Cadet Maximo Patron ‘23
Linda Snyder
Daryl and Debra Bullerjahn
First Captain Alan Cameron ’19
Cadet DC Jensen ’20
Hector Patron and Emilia Cevallos
Stewart Randall H’81
C & A Self Storage
Anthony and John Jensen
Jimmie Duggan H’81
John Ralph Kuehn ‘15
Marcus Fruchter and Mitzi Baum S’92 Rudy Peckinpaugh, Jr. S’72
James and Janet Kuehn
SJNMA Female Cadets
Cadet Austin Mair ’21 Dean and Sarah Mair
Steve & Delores Sarovich Foundation
Grayson Mair ’19
Cadet Sebastian Stadler ’20
Marcus Fruchter and Mitzi Baum S’92
Gus Friedricks Nikos and Nancy Reuss
Cadet Zach Gargano ’20 Geoffrey and Valerie Ward
Cadet Jeronimo Gonzalez ’23 Pablo Gonzalez and Daniela Garza Tijerina
Sebastian Grabacki ’09 David and Janet Grabacki
Dean and Sarah Mair
Michael Stadler and Holly Henrichs
NMNA Class of ’51
Zexin Zhang ’19
Robert Wright N’51
Zihda Zhang and Qingxia Peng
NMNA Class of ‘69 The Very Reverend Canon Jonathan J. Filkins N’69
Thank you
for your continued investment in our future leaders!
KEY: † Deceased Heritage Society Member Leaders Circle Member The 1884 Society Member
S14
2018 - 2019 REPORT TO DONORS
St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy | SUPPLEMENT | THE BEACON
Secure the Future
Giving Your Best I
n all that I have experienced through my years working in marketing, fundraising and event management, there is nothing that comes close in comparison to Commencement & Reunion Weekend at St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy. The uniqueness is unparalleled! The timehonored traditions never fail to evoke the specialness of the Academy. The pride that is felt by families. The euphoria from all the seniors as they experience the moment they have been working so diligently for coupled with the bittersweet sadness knowing that this will most likely be the last time they are all together as a class. It truly is a day to look forward to and remember.
Stephen Matz, Dean of Advancement
As if all that wasn’t enough, that day also means so much to alumni who converge onto Delafield to remember their times together as cadets. Celebrations and tall tales of “when I was a cadet” are heard throughout the weekend. Smiles, laughter and memories of times for which no other person can share unless they were a cadet. Again, it truly is a day to look forward to and remember. But when considering the day in all its awesomeness, what comes of it? Is it a day to celebrate and move on with our lives? Does the brotherhood mean more than just a weekend together? I contend that it does mean more and there is more to do! As alumni, you are entrusted to be the stewards of the Academy. To see to it that your shared legacy continues and St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy thrives when others of its ilk sadly see their demise. I see no better opportunity to capture lighting in a bottle than organizing classes to fulfill their commitment as stewards of the Academy and participate in class gifts. Outlined here is a proposed strategy for each class that will be celebrating a milestone reunion in May of 2020. Class agents still need to be identified and participants need to step forward, but together, as classes, we will have successes to celebrate this May! Class of 2010: Celebrating your 10-year reunion and for most, newly participants in the workforce. Participation is critical for your class. Will your class give their best by organizing 100% participation this fiscal year and supporting the Academy at $20.10 on a monthly recurring basis? Class of 1995: Celebrating your 25-year reunion and are into the grind of adulthood. Many have families, SUVs and yearly vacations. The short of it–life is happening. Will your class rise above and give their best by raising $25,000 in honor of your 25th reunion? Class of 1970: Celebrating your 50-year reunion and for most, looking into the eyes of retirement with enthusiasm. It’s time to be reflective on all those people and organizations that made a positive impact on your life. Will your class give their best by reaching new heights and securing $500,000 in documented estate gifts and/or cash contributions?
Class of 1965: Celebrating your 55-year reunion. Five years ago, you converged onto Delafield and hosted a reunion that ranks among the best attended. The time comes to think about your legacy and the opportunity you can provide young people today to gain the skills that were instilled in you during your time at either Academy. Will your class give their best by surpassing the support of the Class of 1970? After all, what’s better than a bit of friendly competition? Class of 1960: Celebrating your 60-year reunion, and the Academy is excited to welcome you upon your arrival! Will your class give their best by adopting a specific need of the Academy and seeing it through its fulfillment? Class of 1945: Celebrating your 75-year reunion. In short, the Academy is thrilled you are here to celebrate! Will you give your best by celebrating your 75th Reunion to the fullest?
Commencement & Reunion Weekend is scheduled for May 22-23, 2020. In the meantime, the advancement office will contact you to seek leaders to drive these initiatives. As you consider your support and participation, we can make you this guarantee: when we achieve the goals outlined here, Commencement & Reunion Weekend will be risen to a much higher and greater purpose! On behalf of all the current and future cadets that will benefit from your efforts, we ask that you answer the call and give your best!
THE BEACON | St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy
WINTER 2020
21
Five ways a gift annuity can benefit you and help you leave a lasting legacy… Have you considered the benefits of obtaining a gift annuity with SJNMA?
With a gift annuity, you can achieve your financial goals, reduce your taxes, and leave a lasting legacy to support Academy cadets well into the future.
1. Attractive Rates. John Adams is 75 years old and is receiving a modest income from his Certificate of Deposit. He is currently receiving 0.59% percent annually on his CD. When the CD matures in two months, he plans to obtain a SJNMA gift annuity and start receiving 5.8 percent.
Whatever the reason, you owe it to yourself to find out more about charitable gift annuities. To obtain a personalized illustration, fill out and return the coupon below. Or contact Stephen Matz in our development department at (800) 234-9097 or (262) 646-7184.
Gift annuity rates are very attractive for older friends of SJNMA. Many individuals in their retirement years are pleased when they compare their current low investment rates with the current annuity rates offered by SJNMA.
(Please complete and return this reply form)
2. Tax-Free Payments. Part of each annuity payment is taxfree. The tax-free portion of the annuity payment is considered “return of principal” and continues through your estimated life expectancy. 3. Income Tax Deduction. Because a charitable gift annuity is partly a gift and partly an investment in an annuity contract, the donor is entitled to an income tax deduction for the gift portion of their annuity, as allowed by IRS rules. 4. Fixed Regular Payments. It’s nice to be able to count on a specific amount of payment no matter what happens in the volatile financial markets. Your annuity payments will not change from year to year. And your check will be mailed to you (or direct deposited) every payment date for the rest of your life. 5. Personal Satisfaction. Perhaps the greatest benefit of an SJNMA gift annuity is personal fulfillment you receive by helping the Academy. Your gift annuity helps the Academy continue to positively impact young people for generations to come. There are additional reasons for obtaining a gift annuity. Some like the idea of reducing the size of their estate, thus lowering potential estate taxes. Others like the ease and simplicity of gift annuity transactions. People with highly appreciated stock can also benefit from a gift annuity. They particularly like the partial bypass of capital gains they receive.
YES, I am interested in a personalized gift annuity illustration.
Please mail the illustration to me.
Please call me to discuss gift annuities.
NAME STREET ADDRESS CITY
STATE ZIP
TELEPHONE
Information needed to complete illustration (confidential) Name and birthdate of person to receive annuity payments: NAME
BIRTHDATE
Amount to be used for illustration ($25,000 min.): AMOUNT
Type of asset:
cash
stocks/bonds
Mail this form to: Stephen Matz, Dean of Advancement St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy 1101 Genesee Street Delafield, WI 53018-1498
We greatly appreciate our generous friends who support SJNMA through gift annuities or by remembering us in their estate plans. If you would like more information, ideas or help with charitable planning, call Stephen Matz at (800) 234-9097 or (262) 646-7184 or email smatz@sjnma.org, or get ideas on what type of legacy you can leave at www.sjnma.org/giving Charitable gift annuity regulations vary from state to state. References in this article to yields, returns and tax matters are for illustrative purposes only and are subject to change. This information is not intended as legal or tax advice. For such advice, please consult an attorney or tax advisor.
22
WINTER 2020
St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy | THE BEACON
Esprit de Corps
Homecoming & Families Weekend 2019 1
2
October 3, 2019
3
National Honor Society Induction (below):
Pep Rally (above): 1: (left to right) Cadets Lorelei Dean 2022, Sophie Zielinski 2023 and Sofia Tung 2022 are recognized as members of the cross-country team. 2: Cadet Brandin Podziemski 2021 3: Cadet Sean Feng 2025, football manager, and his company prepare to perform a skit.
1
1: Cadet Wenhao Mai 2020 lights a candle that represents the National Honor Society pillar of character. 2: Cadet Sebastain Stadler 2020 (left) welcomes Cadet Joseph Lopatniuk-Lopez 2021 into the National Honor Society. 3: Cadet Jorge Mudeci 2020 with his parents, Jorge and Lucia Mudeci 4: Cadets repeat the National Honor Society (NHS) pledge during the NHS induction ceremony. 5: National Honor Society members
3
2
5
4
THE BEACON | St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy
WINTER 2020
23
1
October 6, 2019 Senior Ring and Sword & Saber Ceremony (right): 1: Charles Krametbauer S1978 presents his granddaughter, Caitlynn Curtis 2021, with her sword. 2: Alex Robbins 2019 (left) presents Cadet Jaxon Stevens 2020 with his sword. 3: Cadet Daniel Fairfield 2021 received his sword from his parents, Neil and Debra Fairfield. 4: Cadet Luke Prescott 2020 receives his sword from his parents, Mike and April Prescott, and brother, Trevor.
5: Todd and Tonja Fritsche present their son, Cadet Nolan Fritsche 2020, with his senior ring. 6: Cadet Ella Butzer 2020 receives her senior ring from her father, Peter Butzer, and brother, Cadet George Butzer II 2023. 7: Captain Zexin Zhang 2019, People’s Republic of China Army Officer, presents Cadet Junkang Wu 2020 with his senior ring. 8: Cadet Gerald Gittens 2020 receives his senior ring from his parents, Gerald Sr. and Betitia Gittens.
5
October 6, 2019 Formal Parade, Promotions & Concert (below): 1: Company guidon bearers stand together during review of the corps.
3: 1CPT Skyler Chauff 2020 (left) promotes Cadet Fan Ye Wu 2023 to Black Board.
2: 1CPT Skyler Chauff 2020 (left) promotes Cadet Benjamin Vie 2023 to corporal.
4: Cadet Jin-ho (Edward) Choi 2020 plays piccolo with the SJNMA Band during the formal parade.
1
2
3
24
WINTER 2020
St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy | THE BEACON
2
3
4
6
7
8
4
THE BEACON | St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy
WINTER 2020
25
For youngsters in grades 1-6 Camp is held at the campus of St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy.
Registration Open Now!
Two Sessions: June 29 – July 3 & July 27 – 31, 2020 Lancers Day Camp gives the perfect combination of recreational and team-building exercises for a well-balanced, fun summer experience boys and girls love! A wide range of unique activities: Archery Obstacle Courses Rock Wall Basic Rifle Marksmanship Rope Bridging Rappelling
Swimming Lake Activities Bubble Ball Monster Ball Inflatables ... and more!
Activities are weather permitting.
Register Early, Space is Limited — Sign Up Today! Questions? (262) 646-7199 admissions@sjnma.org www.sjnma.org
26
WINTER 2020
St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy | THE BEACON
Old Boys Alumni Association
A Message from the OBAA President Old Boys Alumni Association Board of Directors 2019-2020 Officers Chuck Krametbauer S1978 President Jim Hoover S1976 1st Vice President John Bartizal S1986 2nd Vice President David Zirngibl 2002 Treasurer Michael Dayton S1971 Secretary
Board Members Charles Allen S1985 Cory Byrnes 2009 Nikki Cummings 2016 J. C. Fairvalley II S1976 David Hess S1959 Michael Hoover S1971 Keith Pabish S1977 Ted Roth S1974 Bill Sanders S1974 Greg Van Praag S1972 Pete Waskel S1976
As the first year closed for our granddaughter, Caitlynn Curtis 2021, we couldn’t have been more proud of the accomplishments, attitude and leadership skills she brought home for the summer. She returned to campus last August for Cadre leadership academy. She was supposed to attend Raider School, but a trip to Disney on her birthday won over. Currently a junior, she is more than ever focused on her life at SJNMA. At the close of 2019-2020 school year, she will remain on campus as a summer school leader. The OBAA Chris Madding Memorial Golf Outing and Homecoming Weekend were both a success. Supporting the OBAA as you all did, we were able to give three scholarships at $2,500 each for the 2019-2020 school year and a $1,000 donation to The Excalibur. During Homecoming Weekend, the OBAA awarded two cadets scholarships of $2,000. It is so critical that the OBAA and all alumni keep giving their very best. We are supporting our future leaders and giving them the edge for success. Congratulations to all who supported the OBAA, and please keep the wheel rolling. At Homecoming Weekend 2020, we’re hoping to increase those numbers and give four cadets scholarships. Mark your calendar for the 2020 OBAA golf outing on July 17. Join us at the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Chicago on March 14. Alumni, I’ll be looking for volunteers again to carry the guidon, serve as bus monitors, and clear tables. For all of our events, I always ask for volunteers and I always get alumni and their wives. Thank you for your support. You all make the difference for us! Alumni, please get involved by joining an alumni chapter or creating one in your area. It is a great way to stay connected with your buddies and foster a relationship for our school. In closing, please support our great Academy because without your support we cannot grow and we cannot produce outstanding young men and young women. Please give generously. “Your best teacher is your last mistake.”
Charles “Chuck” Krametbauer S1978 OBAA President
H.M./Davidson and Smith/Slavin Walkway Brick Program
Donate a brick in memory of a classmate or engrave a brick in your name! For a tax-deductible gift of $300, a brick can be personalized with the name and year, as appropriate. For more information about the H.M./Davidson and Smith/Slavin Walkway Brick Program, call the alumni office at (262) 646-7220 or (800) 234-9097.
www.sjnma.org/donatenow THE BEACON | St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy
WINTER 2020
27
Reconnect. Reunite. Re-establish. Stay engaged and involved with the Academy! Greetings Alumni, Things we have. These things we do.
As the first half of the academic school year comes to an end, there is much to report on the last six months of alumni business. The Fifth Thursday Alumni Gathering in August at the Hilton Hotel in Bloomington, Minnesota, was the gathering space for alumni and families on August 28, 2019. Richard Garmer S1969 and his friend, John, and Joe and Mary Plese, parents of Matthew Plese 2015, joined us for an evening of appetizers and sharing stories of their times at the Academy. Richard has been the Academy area representative for many years and said he will continue to assist in every way he can to bring in new students to tour campus. The Fifth Thursday Alumni Gathering in September was at Miller Park in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, on September 5, 2019, as the Chicago Cubs took on the Milwaukee Brewers with a win! The SJNMA mugs and other raffle items were well-received and the ever popular Academy fun fundraiser, the 50/50, came out on top. As 23 alumni and families cheered on their favorite team, the event was another success with everyone saying, “Sign us up for next year!” A trip to Green Bay, Wisconsin, on June 30, 2019, to meet Andy Leisk N1966
28
WINTER 2020
brought favorable conversation to hold an alumni gathering in the future. Stay tuned! The Honored Athlete Breakfast and awards program was held on October 5, 2019, in Welles Dining Hall. Richard and Christopher Tan 1999 were inducted into the Academy Athletic Hall of Fame. Attended by 55 people including Mike Henn H2016 and Lilah Stangeland H1999 from the SJNMA Board of Trustees, faculty, staff, and alumni and their families were honored to have James Duggan H1981, former coach and faculty member, as one of the speakers recanting his experiences and stories about past athletic accomplishments at the Academy, and Mike Fink, director of athletics, talk about current cadet programs. Chuck Krametbauer S1978, OBAA president, and I presented their plaques. Our new food service arranged a fine array of breakfast goodies. The Chicago Area Chapter of Alumni have two new area representatives, Sean Lane S1981 and Kyle Popek 2000, who are looking for a new place to meet. If you have a venue that would suit us, let us know. They plan to have an evening of fun and relaxation, and revival of old and new relationships in the Chicago area. Join the SJNMA Chicago Chapter Facebook page for upcoming events.
“Our Priceless Heritage,” a written history of the early years of SJMA by Robert Wells, was posted on the official SJNMA alumni Facebook page this past summer. If you would like a printed copy, contact the alumni office. For a cost of $20 to include printing and shipping, this historical and treasured account of our first 75 years can be yours. “St. John’s Northwestern: A History of Excellence” is also available for $25 each. New this year! The Sloan Park Spring Training Event is set for March 21, 2020, in Mesa, Arizona. The Chicago Cubs will play the Arizona Diamondbacks. If you plan to attend, contact the alumni office no later than January 31. Save the Date! The OBAA Reunion Luncheon and awards program will be held on May 23, 2020, at 11:00 a.m. Dr. Crain Bliwas N1965, former chair of the SJNMA Board of Trustees, will be our 2020 Honored Old Boy. Distinguished Service Award, Honorary Old Boys, and Notable Men of the Academy potential award winners need your input. Send your suggestions to the alumni office by calling (262) 646-7220 or emailing akopaczewski@sjnma.org.
Many have asked what they can do for their Academy as you listened to our message and you came through. We currently have 16 cadets enrolled whose family members have graduated or
St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy | THE BEACON
Alumni Office Update RIGHT: Fifth Thursday Alumni Gathering in September 2019 BELOW, LEFT: Sean Lane S1981 (left) and Kyle Popek 2000 BELOW, RIGHT: James Duggan H1981, former coach and faculty member, spoke about past Academy athletic accomplishments at the Honored Athlete Breakfast on October 5, 2019.
attended the academies. From SJNMA to SJMA to NMNA, and from Mexico to China to the United States, these cadets are continuing in their family’s legacy. Thank you. This is a strong message you have set forth to our alumni. By enrolling your children, you have encouraged others to do so as well. Thank you to all alumni and your families who have participated in sending photos and stories of your lives to share in this issue of The Beacon. Upcoming events are listed on the back cover. Join us. Reach out on Facebook at the Official St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy Alumni
page and look at our website at www.sjnma.org for other activities. Serving all alumni and the SJNMA worldwide community of friends. Most sincerely,
Anita Kopaczewski H2009 Director of Alumni
THE BEACON | St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy
Save these Dates Sloan Park Spring Training Event in Mesa, Arizona March 21, 2020 OBAA Reunion Luncheon and awards program at SJNMA May 23, 2020
WINTER 2020
29
Cheryl (left) and Marge Patzer at the SJMA 1899 class stone
Rollin Turner Gil S1899 was remembered
with a campus visit by granddaughter, Marge Patzer, and great granddaughter, Cheryl Patzer, on September 2, 2019. They were traveling from Sacramento, California, to Madison and Oshkosh, Wisconsin, to visit family members. Lynda Badgley, daughter of Emerson Lamont Badgley S1926, visited campus on September 10, 2019, from Wickenburg, Arizona. She visited the Academy to take photos to share with her family and to purchase a 1926 yearbook. Her father was the drum major in Band Company and shared stories with his three daughters about his passion for the crew team and ice skating on Nagawicka Lake. His last visit to campus was for his 50th reunion in 1976. He passed away in 1980. Lynda Badgley, daughter of Emerson Lamont Badgley S1926, stands behind the 1926 class stone and in front of the class tree.
The SJMA memorabilia of Harold Weber S1926 (D) of Chicago, Illinois, was given to his daughter, Barb Weber, of McHenry, Illinois, when he passed away many years ago. When she passed away, his memorabilia was given to her friends, Roger and Peggy Goehrke, of McHenry. On September 17, 2019, Weber’s beautifully engraved SJMA saber was donated to the SJNMA Museum and Archive. Roger and Peggy Goehrke donated SJMA memorabilia of Harold Weber S1926 to SJNMA.
Harry Nosanchuk S1951 retired from his career as a general
contractor/builder. His wife, Sally, passed away in 2014. They were married for 60 years and had two children. Their oldest daughter, Carol, is an attorney. Her husband is an attorney, and they have two children and one grandchild. Their youngest daughter, Linda, has a doctorate in clinical psychology. She has a private practice, a television program, and is an adjunct professor at a state university. Her husband is a medical doctor, and they have two children. LTC Adrian Traas, USA Ret., S1953
received the de Fleury medal in August 2018 from the Army Engineer Association for his contributions to the Engineer Regiment as an engineer officer. His 2010 publication “Engineers at War” covers Army Engineers during the Vietnam War.
Jared Miller S1954 is an
accomplished banjo player, and played the circuit with Frankie Yankowic, renowned “Polka King.”
Jared Miller S1954, circa 1986
30
WINTER 2020
St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy | THE BEACON
Alumni News Dr. Richard Meyer S1957
celebrated his 80th birthday on September 20, 2019, in Salem, Oregon. He released his 21st music CD called “Crazy ‘bout an Automobile.” His musical style is Americana. He has been recording CDs since the 1970s, which he only distributes to family and friends. Before his retirement in the late 1990s, he was a university professor and wrote books about folklore and material culture. In June 2007, he established The Richard E. Meyer Excellence in Writing Award to be given by the SJNMA English department to the best cadet writer in the corps. John Sherwood S1960 and his wife, Judy, had a wonderful
visit with Eric and Marsha Christman S1960 in March 2019 at their home on the lake in Mt. Dora, Florida. Sherwood especially enjoyed telling one of their friends from Culver Academies about how SJMA beat Culver in football their senior year. In conversation, they were reminded their 60th reunion is coming up in May 2020 and are hoping that many of their classmates will be joining them in Delafield. Don Robert House S1961 donated
a copy of his father’s book, “The USS Rotanin & The Real Ensign Pulver,” to the SJNMA Library. His father, LT Donald Fonda House, USNR (Ret.) (D), was a 1932 graduate of SJMA. To receive a copy of the book, contact the alumni office at akopaczewski@sjnma.org. Warren Marik S1963, former president of the OBAA and a
current member of the Chicago Alumni Chapter, made name rubbings of the five SJMA and NMNA graduates known to be represented on the Mobile Vietnam Memorial Wall, which visited Queen of Heaven Cemetery in Hillside, Illinois, in September 2019. He did that so they will never be forgotten.
Warren Marik S1963 made a rubbing of Charles Cummings N1967 from the Mobile Vietnam Memorial Wall. He also made rubbings of Richard Collins S1961, L. Terrence Beck S1967, Kenneth Yonan S1965 and Edward Terry O’Brien N1963.
THE BEACON | St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy
Thomas and Gloria Wagner S1965 at a military gala during the Florida Council of Chapters annual convention in Florida in June 2019.
COL Thomas Wagner S1965, USAR (Ret.), will celebrate
his 55th reunion in May 2020. After graduating from SJMA, Wagner attended the University of Wisconsin-Madison and graduated in January 1970 commissioned as a second lieutenant in the United States Air Force assigned to field artillery. He was stationed in Germany for three months before receiving orders to Vietnam. After returning from Vietnam, he and his wife, Gloria, settled in the Madison area. They met at UW-Madison and will celebrate their 50th anniversary in May 2020. They have one daughter and one son, and three grandchildren. He is president of the Calusa Chapter of the Military Officers Association of America. Looking back over the past 55 years since high school, he said the values of duty, responsibility and integrity ingrained in him during those critical formative years and reinforced by his parents have guided him always and in many ways. G.C. Healy S1967
G.C. Healy “Griff Stienke” S1967 visited
campus on August 6, 2019, while on a crosscountry trip from his home in Newburg, Oregon, to Madison, Wisconsin, where he attended college. When he attended the University of Wisconsin-Madison, he took over and ran Patterns Coffeehouse putting it in the black financially and preventing its closure. He spent his career as a lawyer and president of the Alzheimer’s Association chapter in Portland, Oregon.
WINTER 2020
31
Dale Hilding S1967 has been very busy in his retirement years.
Aside from his many volunteer jobs, his favorite is being a Cub Scout Leader. He has 37 years in service as a scout leader in Pendleton, Oregon. He is very proud of his Cub Scout Pack, which currently has 65 registered kids including 15 young ladies. Kevin Barry S1973 in Moshi, Tanzania
Kevin Barry S1973 went
on a mission trip to Moshi, Tanzania, in October 2019. His group worked on a building that houses other missionaries and their families while they learn Swahili and absorb the culture. They also traveled to remote areas visiting small churches and performing skits and dramas with a gospel message for children as 42% of the population is age 17 and under. Michael Cummings S1973 holding his granddaughter, Ingrid Beatrice Minton.
Michael A. Cummings S1973 is a “Saba” (Hebrew
for grandfather) for the first time. His daughter, Hannah, and son-in-law, Jared, welcomed a baby girl named Ingrid Beatrice Minton on September 23, 2019, in Boston, Massachusetts. Sean Lane S1981
Sean Lane S1981 of
Arlington Heights, Illinois, has been in the automotive business for 32 years with five years at Arlington Heights Ford. He is a member of the Arlington Heights American Legion Post 208, Sons of the American Legion, and the Arlington Heights Chamber of Commerce. He is also a contributing member and coordinator of the SJNMA Chicago Area Alumni Chapter.
32
WINTER 2020
Louis and Melanie Passaretti N1982 with their daughter, Autumn
Louis Passaretti N1982 and his wife, Melanie, attended
Formation of the Corps on September 2, 2019, as their daughter, Autumn 2022, began her first day of school.
Dan and Angela Mulby S1998 with their daughter, Alexandria
Dan Mulby S1988 and
his wife, Angela, daughter, Alexandria, and son, Shay, visited campus on September 2, 2019. They live in Delafield and Mulby works at Enterprise.
William Gapp (left) and David Bachowski S1991
David Bachowski S1991
of Waukesha, Wisconsin, visited campus on September 2, 2019, with William Gapp of Naples, Florida, father of Bradley Gapp S1991. Gapp shared stories of the fun times he remembered with Col. Leonard Greene and President Norbert Smith.
St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy | THE BEACON
Matthew Plotkin 2000 and his sisters, Jana (left) and Jessica, posing for this picture in support of their father who is running for Wisconsin State Senate.
Matthew Plotkin 2000 is encouraging his classmates to Eric and Kristy Tarnow 1999 with their children (left to right) Dorothy (age 2), Vaughn (age 9), Lana (age 3) and Liam (age 7)
Eric Tarnow 1999 visited campus with his family on October
17, 2019, from Fargo, North Dakota. He is an air traffic controller specialist for the Federal Aviation Administration, and he and his wife, Kristy, have four children. Their son, Vaughn, said about their visit, “When we got there, dad told me all students had to salute when they passed the beacon. Dad also told me a lot of things had changed. They used to fire a big cannon. They also line all the students up before breakfast and do it at some other time, but I don’t remember when. The mess hall looks like something out of Harry Potter, too! Did I mention that the higher-ranking cadets made other New Boys race my dad because he was one of the fastest runners around? Also my dad’s name is on the class bench of 1999. We also saw the library. Overall, I would give my visit five stars out of five because it was awesome.”
return for their 20th reunion in May 2020. He is married with a 6-year-old son as well as two bonus sons (ages 8 and 10) and a daughter (age 7). Anthony Arnold and his fiancé, Karina.
Cryptologic Technician (Collection) 1st Class Anthony Arnold 2002 and
his fiancé, Karina, visited campus on October 24, 2019, to look at the Noble Victory Memorial Chapel for their possible wedding venue. They live in San Antonio, Texas, where he is a district attorney and is in the National Guard. In 18 years, they would like to see their children attend the Academy.
Think strategic. Give smarter. You put a lot of effort into making smart financial decisions. Why should your charitable giving be any different? A donor-advised fund is like a charitable investment account. When you contribute to a DAF, you can be eligible for immediate tax benefits. Those funds can then be invested for tax-free growth and recommended appropriate distributions to the charity of your choice. Utilizing donor-advised funds to support St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy may be your best option for tax-efficient charitable giving. Give your best … To learn more, contact our advancement staff at advancement@sjnma.org or (800) 234-9097.
St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization. Your contribution is tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. THE BEACON | St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy
WINTER 2020
33
(left to right) L.W. Fowler 2006, Paul Megalis 2005, John Burnett 2005, Frank Calabrese 2005, Kris Voegele 2005, Martin Wrobel 2005, Alex Trefilek 2005 and George Bousis 2005
Members of the Classes of 2005 and 2006 met at Maplewood Brewery and Distillery in Chicago on September 21, 2019. This “band of brothers” said it was like “picking up where they left off.” Joe LaRocca IV 2006 is in
the pit orchestra for the 50th anniversary national tour of Jesus Christ Superstar. They have performed in San Jose, Texas, Las Vegas, Nevada, and Los Angeles and San Diego, California. The tour travels the country until August 2020. Joe LaRocca IV 2006
Cory and Kristin Byrnes 2009 preparing to walk under an Arch of Steel.
Cory Byrnes 2009 joined Asurion Company in July 2019 as an
in-home expert and in October, was promoted to supervisor/ coach for the Milwaukee, Wisconsin, market. On October 12, 2019, he married Kristin in Noble Victory Memorial Chapel. Tyler Ward 2009 and
his fiancee, Claudia Rios, welcomed their first child, Penelope Rose, on October 31, 2019.
Tyler Ward 2009 holding his daughter, Penelope Rose.
Jonathan Bradley 2009 and Michael Smaniotto 2009 had
a chance meeting at Brick House Tavern & Tap in Chicago on August 31, 2019. Smaniotto was watching an Illinois college game with friends and Bradley spotted him from across the bar before attending a Chicago Cubs game. They had a fun time talking about their days at SJNMA and their favorite sports teams. Jonathan Bradley 2009 (right) and Michael Smaniotto 2009
34
WINTER 2020
Octavio Hidalgo 2010 visited campus August 29, 2019, from
Vera Cruz, Mexico. He traveled to Germantown, Wisconsin, on business for his family’s door company. He attended the Academy from 2005 to 2007.
Octavio Hidalgo 2010 (right) and LTC Jim Kebisek, senior Army instructor at SJNMA
St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy | THE BEACON
Andrew Rubino 2010 visited campus from Naperville, Illinois,
on November 7, 2019. He visited with his teachers and met cadets in Tim Shramek’s history class. Andrew Rubino 2010 (right) and Tim Shramek
(left to right) Juan Vazquez 2011, Jorge Vazquez 2009 and Jorge Vazquez 2006
Juan Vazquez 2011, Jorge Vazquez 2009 and Jorge Vazquez 2006 visited campus from Toluca, Mexico, on Joseph Zuccaro 2010 attended SJNMA from 2008 to 2009
during his junior year. He said being a cadet had a tremendous impact on his life. After high school, he went to college and then started a career on Wall Street. He has since put his business career on hold and has been working as a Catholic missionary for the past year and a half. He works with the organization called Fellowship of Catholic University Students (FOCUS) whose mission is to share the Gospel with college students across the world. Charlie Hernandez (left) and Duane Rutherford
Charlie Hernandez 2011 met with Duane
Rutherford, director of major gifts at SJNMA, on September 2, 2019, and compared stories of their times in The Old Guard. The 3rd United States Infantry Regiment is a regiment of the United States Army and currently has three active battalions. In his spare time, Hernandez plans to represent the Washington, D.C., alumni chapter for SJNMA.
THE BEACON | St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy
September 4, 2019. They attended the Chicago Bears vs. Green Bay Packers football game in Chicago on September 5. Isaac Work 2012 will complete his master’s degree in public
administration from University of Illinois at Chicago this year. He is working for the Department of Planning and Development at City Hall and is running for a deputy commissioner seat. He attended the class stone ceremony in May 2019 and looks forward to attending again in May 2020. Ehab Amin PG2014 became the most expensive player in the
history of Egyptian basketball after joining Alexandria Sporting Club in Egypt in August 2019. He had played there for 11 years before attending the SJNMA Post Graduate program. After SJNMA, he played for three years at Texas A&M UniversityCorpus Christi where he led the NCAA Division 1 in steals per game and earned first-team All-Southland Conference in 20162017. He transferred to the University of Oregon for one year before returning to Egypt. Alvaro Garcia 2015
visited campus on August 22, 2019. He was on his way home to Mexico City, Mexico, from Rhinelander, Wisconsin, where he worked at a summer camp. Alvaro Garcia 2015 (left) and SGT Michael Trione, JROTC instructor at SJNMA
WINTER 2020
35
Mohammad Basij-Rasikh 2017 is studying to be a
pilot in his home country of Kabul, Afghanistan. He studied journalism at Ahmad Shah Baba Institute of Higher Education.
Mohammad Basij-Rasikh 2017
(left to right) KyleMin 2018, SangsSoo Ha 2018, JaeWon So 2016, JaeMin Kim 2016 and JaeYeon Seo2016
JaeMin Kim 2016, Kyle Min 2018, JaeWon So 2016, SangsSoo Ha 2018, JaeYeon Seo 2016 and JoonSu Yoon 2020 meet regularly. They met for the last time in June 2019 in
South Korea before Jae Yeon Seo 2016 and Sam Ha 2018 enlisted in the South Korean military.
Military Men in Service
Cpl Harrison Kampling 2015 completed
his four-year enlistment in the U.S. Marine Corps, and currently is at the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, Maryland.
Ben Weinicke 2018 graduated from
Sheppard Air Force Base Technical School in Texas on October 18, 2019, and was prompted to A1C in the munitions system. Ben Weinicke 2018 at Sheppard Air Force Base in Texas
Cpl Harrison Kampling 2015
The SJNMA Alumni Office thanks everyone who serves and will continue to update our men in the service of our country.
36
WINTER 2020
St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy | THE BEACON
Taps
Alumni Bud Hoffberg S1933 during his 85th reunion
Jerome “Bud” Hoffberg S1933 passed away
October 29, 2019, in Evanston, Illinois, at the age of 103. After SJMA, he attended the University of Illinois and then joined his parents at Petra Manufacturing Company. During World War II, Hoffberg entered the service as a private and rose to captain after two tours overseas. He was in logistics in England and later in France, he commanded a headquarters company and prisoner of war camps. Upon his return to business and always open to innovation, he came across a thick, gummy substance called vinyl plastic and after several years of development, it became the material used in many products all over the world. Petra Manufacturing Company is the world’s oldest fabricator of PVC. Hoffberg introduced Velcro, a Swiss product, into the United States. There were other original and creative products introduced during his 50 years with Petra, 25 as president and CEO. He will be remembered as an entrepreneur, sportsman and philanthropist with an incredible sense of humor and an amazing outlook on life. Most important was his commitment to his family, children and friends. In his twilight, Hoffberg often said, “I’ve had a wonderful life – no regrets!” He visited campus annually to serve as Grand Marshall of the OBAA parade during Commencement & Reunion Weekend.
Clifford Taylor S1945 passed away September 16, 2019, in
Spring Lake, Michigan. He was a certified public accountant. John E. “Jack” Farrell S1947 of West Port, Connecticut,
passed away December 3, 2017. His wife, Marianne, notified the Academy in a gift she gave in his memory in October 2019. Anthony Lazzara S1948
Anthony R. Lazzara S1948 passed
away November 6, 2019, in Santa Ynez, California. Born and raised in Chicago, he graduated from SJMA as supply sergeant of Company E. He played trumpet in the SJMA Marching Band and was bugler for reveille for two years. He attended Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois, and received his Bachelor of Law and Juris Doctorate from DePaul University in Chicago. For 16 years, Lazzara was a lawyer through the Chicago Bar Association as well as chairman and president of Scientific Technology, Inc., a company that specialized in infrared and safety censors. In addition to practicing law, he held a pilot’s license, and owned and operated a horse ranch in Santa Ynez. He participated in Elks Club and the Illinois Athletic Association. He and his wife, Joanie, were married 69 years, and had four children and nine grandchildren. Their son, Joe, graduated from SJMA in 1969. In 2014, Lazzara received the Honored Old Boy Award from the SJNMA Old Boys Alumni Association. Also that year, Mr. and Mrs. Lazzara were inducted into The Heritage Society at the Diamond level of the Smythe Circle. He was a member of the SJNMA Board of Trustees since 2015. continued on next page
Carry On.
Did you know that there are many ways to support St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy besides writing a check? With a little planning, you can include a gift to SJNMA within your overall estate or financial plans that preserves the Academy’s mission and provides you with tax benefits in return. Give your best … and give for the future. To learn more, contact our advancement staff at advancement@sjnma.org or (800) 234-9097.
St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization. Your contribution is tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. THE BEACON BEACON || St. St.John’s John’sNorthwestern NorthwesternMilitary MilitaryAcademy Academy THE
ISSUE YEAR WINTER 2020
37 37
Alumni continued Walter E. Meyer S1949 passed away April 2, 2019, in Atlanta,
Georgia. He celebrated his 70th reunion and supported the Academy for many years. He was retired from Continental Tire in Bryan, Ohio, where he managed a tire plant. August Sievers N1949 passed away February 12, 2019, in
Glenview, Illinois. After graduating from NMNA, he joined the United States Naval Reserves and spent his life as an independent wine consultant. Fr. Richard Deitch S1958 passed away July 11, 2019, at
the age of 79. He had been living in retirement at Rancho Mirage in California for the past 14 years. He was ordained a priest in the Episcopal Diocese of Chicago in 1968, came into full communion with the Catholic Church in 1985, and was ordained to the priesthood in 1986. He was known for his ministry at Saint Mary’s Cathedral, Saint Anne of the Sunset Parish, his service to the Archdiocese in building administration, support of priests in retirement, and his years as pastor at Saint Mary Star of the Sea Parish in Sausalito. He was especially known for his work at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Palm Desert, Saint Francis Catholic Church in La Quinta, and the parishes in Palm Springs. He continued to serve in the desert until health issues required him to curtail his public ministry. He was a Knight Commander of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulcher, was Grand Chaplain of the Young Ladies Institute, volunteered with Citizens on Patrol in the city of Rancho Mirage, and was active in Legatus.
Kelley McGuiness N1966 passed away October 25, 2019, in
Palm Coast, Florida. Per his wishes, his wife, Susan, opened all the windows and doors, loudly played his favorite song, “Last Ride of the Day” by Nightwish, and made an old Irish toast to him, “May you be in heaven 30 minutes before the devil knows you’re dead.” Terry Dearborn N1967 passed away August 12, 2019, in
Yorkville, Illinois. He worked for the Chicago Northwestern Railroad as an engineer for nearly 10 years prior to starting Valley Chimney Sweep more than 40 years ago and subsequently became one of the founding members of the National Chimney Sweep Guild. He and his wife, Wendy, were married 51 years and had three children.
The SJNMA Alumni Office thanks all alumni who provide us with information on your fellow classmates. Please continue to notify us at (262) 646-7220, (800) 234-9097 or akopaczewski@sjnma.org.
Contact: Anita Kopaczewski Director of Alumni and Director of The Columbarium (262) 646-7220 or akopaczewski@sjnma.org
Visit us online at www.thecolumbarium.com
38
WINTER 2020
St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy | THE BEACON
Guillermo Steta S1982
Guillermo Steta S1982 passed
Richard Ellbogen S1968 with his wife, Sue, and grandchildren, Alison and Dodge, at SJNMA in 2015
away November 1, 2019, in Mexico. He began playing polo at age 12 at the Jalapa Polo Club. The former president of the Mexican Polo Federation, he had a one-goal handicap, and would play at Tecamac Polo Club or one of the 16 federated clubs across Mexico. He has represented the Mexican polo team many times in countries such as Argentina, Chile, India, Spain, Panama, the United States, England, and Germany. He won the “Agua Alta Cup” at Careyes in Mexico, the “Sonata Cup” in India, and the “Ambassadors Cup” several times in Argentina and Mexico.
Richard Ellbogen S1968 passed away October 25, 2019, in
Chicago, Illinois. He was in the Illinois National Guard from 1972 to 1980 and did infantry training at Fort Polk, Louisiana. Due to his training at SJMA, he was made the platoon guide in basic training and advanced individual training. When he returned to his guard unit, he reached the rank of sergeant. He carried an M60 machine gun, was supply sergeant, and was a gunner in an M60 tank, which weighed 53 tons and was his favorite. He had his own Jeep with a driver and an M60 machine gun mounted on the back with a gunner. After the war, Ellbogen worked as a banker at Chase Bank and met many interesting World War II veterans. He had wanted to start a project with the SJNMA history classes to interview the Academy’s World War II veterans. He loved the Academy so much that on April 6, 2017, he was baptized in Noble Victory Memorial Chapel with 14 family members and friends in attendance and the 133rd Corps of Cadets. Steven L. Timmons N1976 passed away October 2,
2018, from Glioblastoma, a brain cancer. He was battalion commander at NMNA. His wife, Joan, thanks everyone from NMNA for their kind remarks during his period of illness.
THE BEACON BEACON || St. St.John’s John’sNorthwestern NorthwesternMilitary MilitaryAcademy Academy THE
Faculty and Friends Hans O. Billerbeck, former tailor at SJMA, passed away
November 16, 2019, in Cudahy, Wisconsin, at the age of 83. He was born in Detmold, Germany, and emigrated to the U.S. in 1959 where he began his career as a tailor at SJMA. In 1972, he left SJMA as he and his wife, Sharon, became the proud owners of Hans Billerbeck Tailor Shop in Milwaukee, which closed in 2017. Throughout his life, he enjoyed dancing, golf, traveling, watching soccer games, and reading the newspaper. Betty Gardetto, mother of Paul Gardetto S1981, passed away
October 25, 2019, at the age of 87 with family at her side in Slinger, Wisconsin. A pioneering woman from rural Wisconsin, her story began as the daughter of a potato farmer in Antigo, Wisconsin. After high school, she left for Chicago where she studied biochemistry at Northwestern University. She switched to nursing and after graduation, joined the precursor to what later became the Peace Corps as a nurse in Nigeria Africa. Her service was recognized with a personal letter from President John F. Kennedy. She was so proud of her family’s achievements as they carry on her lifelong goal of caring for others and treating everyone as children of God.
ISSUE YEAR WINTER 2020
39 39
NONPROFIT ORG US POSTAGE PAID DELAFIELD, WI PERMIT NO. 14
St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy 1101 Genesee Street Delafield, WI 53018-1498
2020 Upcoming SJNMA Events February 8 ��������������Back the Lancers, Delafield, Wisconsin
April 30 ���������������������Fifth Thursday Alumni Gathering, Illinois
March 7 ��������������������Midwinter Military Ball, Pewaukee, Wisconsin
May 22-23 ���������������Commencement & Reunion Weekend,* SJNMA Campus
March 14 ������������������St. Patrick’s Day Parade,* Chicago
May 22 ����������������������Leaders Circle Reception, SJNMA Campus
March 21 ������������������Alumni Gathering Major League Baseball Spring Training, Mesa, Arizona
July 17 �����������������������OBAA Chris Madding Memorial Golf Outing,* Mount Prospect, Illinois
April 24-26 ��������������Families Weekend, SJNMA Campus April 25 ���������������������The Excalibur, Farrand Hall Gymnasium, SJNMA Campus
For more information on upcoming Academy events, visit www.sjnma.org
* To register online, visit www.sjnma.org/alumni-events
Don’t miss any of the action ...
Stay in Touch
Contact the alumni office at (262) 646-7220, (800) 234-9097 or akopaczewski@sjnma.org for event details and registration or to update the Academy with your news and information. Also, be sure to follow us online: /sjnma
@sjnmaathletics
@discoversjnma
/school/sjnma www.sjnma.org
Parents of Alumni: If The Beacon is addressed to your son or daughter who no longer maintains a permanent residence at your home, or for any change of address, please notify the alumni office by calling (800) 234-9097. Thank you!