Life Cycles 2014 by Sisters of Charity of Cincinnati

Life Cycles 2014

I Go Before You What’s beyond yonder hill? What’s beyond the horizon? I don’t know; I don’t care. I know that I will find Him there. What’s beyond the bend up there? What’s beyond the curve? I don’t know; I don’t care. I know that I will find Him there. What’s beyond the heavy fog? What’s beyond the night? I don’t know; I don’t care. I know that I will find Him there. For He said, “I go to prepare a place for you.” S. Imelda Cooper Scribner, Nebraska 1981

Dear Sisters and Associates,

“W

hat’s beyond…?” asks Sister Imelda Cooper in her poem, “I Go Before You.” This fundamental question is one we all ponder, especially when we send our dear Sisters and Associates to their new home in heaven. How we would love to hear from them about what it is like! What does it look like? How does it sound? What are the scents? Are people busy there? Are they completely at rest? Are they singing? Dancing? Are they thinking of us and praying for us? I hope so, because I count on their prayers, especially when times are difficult. Sister Imelda goes to the heart of the matter: “I know that I will find Him there.” Even though we cannot imagine how heaven looks, sounds, or feels; and even though we can only speculate about what our loved ones are doing in heaven, we know that God is there. Our deceased Sisters and Associates, and all our loved ones, are enjoying God’s presence that far surpasses our wildest imaginings. What is more, we have the assurance that God is eager to welcome each one of us into the Divine Presence. S. Imelda reminds us to take comfort in that assurance; she concludes her poem by quoting from John’s Gospel, “I go to prepare a place for you.” As we reflect on the lives of our Sisters and Associates whom we remember here, let us thank them for the example of their lives of faithful charity. And let us share their joy as they experience the eternal, loving presence of our God.

S. Joan Elizabeth Cook President

Table of Contents Sister Mary Raymond Balash........................................................................... Page 4 Sister Joseph Maria Bensman........................................................................... Page 5 Sister Mary Josephine Bensman....................................................................... Page 6 Sister Claire Boehm......................................................................................... Page 7 Sister Mary Josetta Boeing............................................................................... Page 8 Associate Father Joseph Bruening.................................................................... Page 9 Sister Mary Michael Chizmar........................................................................ Page 10 Associate Madeleine Davis............................................................................. Page 11 Sister Ann Dorenbusch................................................................................. Page 12 Sister Alice Glutz........................................................................................... Page 13 Sister Helen Groeber..................................................................................... Page 14 Sister Ruth Marian Hanekamp...................................................................... Page 15 Associate Edith Hendrix................................................................................ Page 16 Sister Rita Margaret Kroger........................................................................... Page 17 Sister Betty Jane Meneghin............................................................................ Page 18 Sister Therese Marie Moledor........................................................................ Page 19 Sister Mary Schlanser.................................................................................... Page 20 Sister Mildred Shaver.................................................................................... Page 21 Sister Maura Jean Tapke................................................................................ Page 22 Sister Mary Patricia Wagner.......................................................................... Page 23 Sister Lawrence White................................................................................... Page 24

S. Mary Raymond Balash

Mary Raymond Balash “met each person with grace and a calm presence reinforced by a life where prayer, fidelity, steadfastness, humility and love were well-honed,” remembered S. Regina Kusnir. S. Mary Raymond was taught by the Pittsburgh Vincentian Sisters of Charity. Sister once said that she admired the Sisters as educators and saw them as holy, prayerful women; she desired to be like them. In January 1936, S. Mary Raymond entered the Vincentian Sisters of Charity in Bedford, Ohio.

o Gentle smile Diligent Gracious Untiring energy Dedicated p

S. Mary Raymond earned a Bachelor of Science degree in education from St. John’s Teachers College, Cleveland, Ohio, in 1948. She ministered in the Greater Cleveland area for 41 years, beginning in grades three through four at St. Mary School, Bedford, in 1941. She returned from 1945-’47 and as a junior high teacher from 1950-’64. For 23 years Sister ministered at Lumen Cordium High School in Bedford, teaching American History and serving as the Dean of Girls. In 1979 she received the Lumen Cordium Teacher of the Year Award. On the plaque it stated: “S. Mary Raymond is a person of total dedication, untiring energy and boundless love. She is always professional and ever a prime example of Christian witness and Catholic faith … the girls are her great love.” “She was a woman who truly knew how to serve without calling attention to herself,” recalled S. Betty Finn. “Her quiet and unassuming ways could easily lead one to overlook the depth of spirituality, humor, connectedness and insight she bestowed on so many family members, friends and former students,” added S. Dorothy Ann Blatnica. In her retirement years, 1988-2003, Sister served in middle management at Villa San Bernardo, the Congregational home of the Vincentian Sisters of Charity. She could be seen riding around the Villa grounds on her golf cart on a warm day surveying the property. For us as a Congregation, S. Mary Raymond wished all “to live out the charisms of Saints Vincent and Louise in spirit, word and deed.” Sister Mary Raymond Balash died March 8, 2014, at the age of 96 in Regina Health Center, Richfield, Ohio. 4

S. Joseph Maria Bensman

rowing up in St. Patrick and Fort Loramie, Ohio, S. Joseph Maria Bensman traced her vocation to the Sisters of Charity she cooked for at Holy Angels convent in Sidney, Ohio, and her strong, Catholic family who valued religious life. “Through the prayers of the Sisters I came to realize I was being called; prayer, the rule and my vows of commitment gave me the grace to persevere,” she wrote. Sister entered the Community in September 1943; she was a Sister of Charity of Cincinnati for 70 years. S. Joseph Maria began her food service ministry in 1945 at Penrose Hospital, Colorado Springs, Colorado. She provided similar services at St. Joseph Hospital, Albuquerque, New Mexico (1947-’48) and St. MaryCorwin, Pueblo, Colorado (1948-’50). In the areas of nutrition she enjoyed menu planning and purchasing. She provided those services for the Motherhouse kitchen from 1950-’56, 1962-’65, and again from 1972-’78. Sister considered it a privilege to live at the Motherhouse and contribute to the health of her Sisters. She also served as a Motherhouse mail clerk, 1970-’72, and laundry coordinator, 1978-’85. In Cincinnati S. Joseph Maria cooked for the Sisters living in the Seton High School convent, 1956-’62, and at St. Joseph Home, 1965-’67. She also provided various housekeeping duties, 1967-’69 at St. Rose Convent, Cincinnati. Having her services available ‘at home’ simplified and enriched life for the Sisters ministering in those locations. S. Katrinka Gunn recalls the care with which Sister served the priests who offered Mass at the Motherhouse: “Whatever Joseph Maria did was done with quiet and humble grace. She always had a smile and enjoyed my visits. She was a true example of humility, simplicity and unpretentious service.” Sister was proud to have two blood sisters also in the Congregation; they enjoyed celebrating together on special occasions. She was a fan of the Cincinnati Reds and found time to read, sew and keep up on the world’s news in her retirement. World peace and being true to God’s plan for religious life were always among her daily prayer intentions. S. Joseph Maria Bensman died Aug. 22, 2014, at the age of 93 in Mother Margaret Hall. 5

o Humble Graceful Simple Accommodating Generous p

S. Mary Josephine Bensman

Sister of Charity of Cincinnati for 74 years, S. Mary Josephine Bensman attributed the Sisters of Charity ministering at Holy Angels School in Sidney, Ohio, to fostering and encouraging her vocation. After graduating from high school she was hired as their cook; she saw what happy religious women could do in serving others and two years later, in 1939, she entered the Sisters of Charity Congregation.

o Gentle Humble Caring Brought joy to others Welcoming presence p

S. Mary Josephine grew up in a very Catholic environment. She found the Church to be the foundation of their family life. She also shared a vocation to religious life with two sisters and one brother. Her older sister, and her younger sister, along with her brother John all followed a call to vowed life; the three girls became Sisters of Charity and John is a priest in the Precious Blood community. She began her ministry of nutrition in 1941 at the Motherhouse of the Sisters of Charity. The following year she went to Penrose Hospital, Colorado Springs, Colorado, preparing food for patients and Sisters alike; S. Mary Josephine spent a total of five years there. She enjoyed the opportunity to use her gifts of hospitality in a variety of settings. For 14 years (1953-’67) Sister prepared meals for the Sisters living on mission at Little Flower convent, Cincinnati, Ohio, where she appreciated the opportunity to be part of parish life as well. Sister was always gracious, accommodating and generous in her service; she understood the importance of good nutrition. S. Mary Josephine considered cooking for others a privilege. “She was a quiet friend and Sister of Charity who loved serving the Lord through her domestic duties,” remembers S. Maria Dolorata Felix. S. Mary Josephine retired from active ministry, having worked in Housekeeping Services in the Motherhouse from 1978-’89. She survived a bout with cancer in the 1990s and was gracious as she met other people undergoing chemotherapy treatments like herself; they were surely remembered in her prayers. S. Mary Josephine Bensman died March 11, 2014, at the age of 94 in Mother Margaret Hall. 6

S. Claire Boehm

“S.

Claire Boehm had such a spirit of Elizabeth Seton – just a wonderful example of Charity for all of us!” remembered S. Diana Bode.

Born in Norwood, Ohio, S. Claire met the Sisters of Charity in high school. S. Laura Mary Liegibel asked Claire in her junior year if she had ever considered becoming a Sister. At the time, Claire laughed at the thought, but when she obtained her driver’s license she accompanied Sisters to meetings, doctor appointments and shopping. Their zest for life and inner peace spoke to Claire; this was the seed of her vocation. By September 1956 she responded to her call to become a Sister of Charity, a vocation of 57 years. Sister earned a Bachelor of Science degree in education and a Master of Education in reading. This followed a four-year call to the missions in Peru, South America, where she learned the language with Native American women she befriended. It was in Lansing, Michigan, teaching in St. Casimir School from 1969-’71, that S. Claire ‘fell in love with teaching.’ She spent 28 years serving in some of the poorest Catholic elementary schools in Michigan, 25 of those years ministering as a Title I reading teacher at St. David, Detroit, 1980-’91, until it closed and St. Juliana, 1991-2005. “Seeing their progress was like a miracle – from not being able to read a word to reading a whole page!” Sister once said. “I had the best job in the world.” According to S. Barbara Davis, S. Claire “was a master teacher who knew how to meet the needs of each child in her class, especially those who struggled with reading.” At the same time S. Claire taught during the school day, she cared for her 98-year-old mother, who came to live with her at St. Veronica convent in Easypointe, a Detroit suburb. “Her mother needed a lot of care and Claire was so dear with her. She was always thinking of ways to make her happy!” said S. Nancy Bramlage. S. Claire Boehm died July 8, 2014, at the age of 76 in Mother Margaret Hall. 7

o Fun Perceptive Witty Kind spirit Master teacher p

S. Mary Josetta Boeing

“S.

Mary Josetta Boeing impressed me as one fine example of a Sister of Charity from the time we first met,” remembered S. Diana Durling. “She always had such a gentle, kind, friendly way of including people in her conversations. Her perseverance and love of life, even when suffering, was impressive. She loved her ministries and the people to whom she ministered. What a joy it was to share her journey of life.”

o Persevering Loved life Friendly Gentle Brought joy p

A Sister of Charity of Cincinnati for 66 years, S. Mary Josetta attended St. William School and graduated from Seton High School before entering the Sisters of Charity. Sister taught in schools in Ohio and Michigan for 25 years, and served as principal at St. Rose, Lima, Ohio, 1961-’63 and St. Robert, Flushing, Michigan, 1963-’69. In those years she happily discovered gifts in planning and goal-setting which she put to good use in her next career. With the influence of Vatican II, religious education in the total parish held a great interest for S. Mary Josetta. For the next 33 years she devoted her attention to the parish, appreciating the laity as full church members. After serving in two parishes as director of religious education in Saginaw, Michigan, she saw the need parishes had for adult education and assistance in planning and organizing programs in the parish. She ministered in the Gaylord Diocese in Michigan as director of religious education, 1981’83, and was then called to provide leadership for her Sisters living and ministering in the Great Lakes area; she served in this capacity for five years. She next responded to a call from the Diocese of Steubenville, Ohio, ministering in Christian formation from 1988-’95, a position she loved. In 2006 S. Mary Josetta came home to the Motherhouse, but not before 10 more years in the field, in her hometown, as pastoral associate at St. Aloysius in Bridgetown, Cincinnati, where she could remain involved in numerous aspects of parish life. “Religious education, especially the RCIA, has been a joy, privilege and blessing,” she said of her ministry experiences. S. Mary Josetta Boeing died March 31, 2014, at the age of 84 in Mother Margaret Hall. 8

Associate Fr. Joseph Bruening

he Reverend Joseph Bruening became an Associate in Mission of the Sisters of Charity of Cincinnati on June 6, 2004, but claimed, “The Sisters of Charity knew me before I knew them!” He was born on Aug. 9, 1927, at St. Joseph Infant Asylum (now called St. Joseph Home of Cincinnati), a sponsored ministry of the SC Congregation. Fr. Joe was educated by the Sisters at St. Elizabeth School in Norwood, Ohio. He had three brothers and one sister, Mary Elizabeth Maxwell, also an Associate. Fr. Joe was ordained a priest for the Archdiocese of Cincinnati in 1953. He attributed his vocation to the priesthood somewhat to his teachers, the Sisters, because he said, “I knew that I wanted to be a priest in second grade.” He never truly lost connection with the Congregation serving in parishes with Sisters and staying connected in other ways. After a long ministry as a diocesan priest, he physically returned to the Sisters of Charity by taking residence in Regina Hall. Fr. Joe, as he was affectionately called, celebrated Mass in the Motherhouse chapel and served as the chaplain for the Sisters in Mother Margaret Hall nursing facility beginning in 2003. He said, “My greatest joy here is getting to know the Sisters as real people, witnessing their spirituality and dedication, living their mission doing justice and liberating the oppressed.” By participating in the Immersion Experience in 2005, Fr. Joe became even more aware of how the Sisters were addressing current needs. While he had always felt called to social justice issues, participating in the Immersion gave him opportunities to personally get involved. Soon after he began tutoring at The Women’s Connection and also volunteering at Our Daily Bread. In an interview in Intercom in 2007, Fr. Joe said, “What has been good about being an Associate for me is that I feel like I have more opportunities for spiritual growth and a greater identification with the Sisters and their work. My experiences have shown me that not only are the Sisters doing good stuff, but they are making a difference.”

Fr. Joseph Bruening died March 31, 2014, in Cincinnati, Ohio. 9

o Peaceful Well-read Good friend Warm Comforting p

S. Mary Michael Chizmar

Mary Michael Chizmar entered the Vincentian Sisters of Charity from Sts. Cyril and Methodius parish in Warren, Ohio, in August 1938. She first met the Congregation while on a pilgrimage to the Shrine of Our Lady of Levocha in Bedford, Ohio, and was encouraged by her pastor to consider becoming a woman religious.

o Wonderful cook Pioneer Beautician Always smiling Brave p

S. Mary Michael earned a Bachelor of Science degree in education from St. John’s Teachers College, Cleveland, Ohio, in 1948. She ministered in education in the Greater Cleveland area for more than 50 years. In 1949 S. Mary Michael was one of four Vincentian Sisters of Charity to open the first Catholic school in Medina County, Ohio, at Sacred Heart. S. Mary Michael ministered at Sacred Heart School for 11 years and returned to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the school in 1979, saying, “They were the best students I ever had; it was a wonderful experience!” In the late 1960s, S. Mary Michael attended beautician training classes on Saturdays and weeknights after a full day in the classroom. She obtained her license in cosmetology in 1969. She enjoyed giving haircuts to her Sisters, but also sought the elderly in nursing homes and homebound who were unable to pay for the service. In her early retirement years, S. Mary Michael chose to serve the elderly as a health aide at Light of Hearts Villa, an assisted-living facility in Bedford. She continued this ministry for 10 years and stayed connected to the classroom by tutoring young students as well. S. Betty Finn said, “I remember when she came to Mount St. Joseph and was so generous in her efforts to be brave. I loved visiting with her; she was a sweetheart.” S. Dorothy Ann Blatnica recalls visiting her mother, who was a resident of Light of Hearts Villa. “When I entered the room S. Michael was painting my mother’s nails a lovely shade of pink. I never saw my mother wear nail polish, but on that day, she and Michael were having a delightful time with those nails,” she recalled. S. Mary Michael Chizmar died April 18, 2014, at the age of 95 in Mother Margaret Hall. 10

Associate Madeleine Davis

orn Madeleine O’Brien in Greenville, Ohio, on May 5, 1912, Associate Madeleine Davis lived in Pennsylvania and New York before moving to Florida with her husband, Chester Davis, and children Joseph and Bonnie. Madeleine was an artist, sculptor, hat designer and maker of delicious desserts, according to those who knew her. When her husband died, her sister, Jeanne O’Brien, also an Associate, moved in with her and the two lived together until Jeanne’s death in 2008. Madeleine designed and made banners for the church. She was involved in the Religious Education Program and in Vacation Bible School. She wrote on her application to become an Associate: “As an artist, I have designed banners and have taught painting and crafts. This is an area where I can render special services.” She also assisted S. Mary Loyola Mathia in the Evangelization Program. Her gifts also led to designing dolls and repairing and repainting statues.

o Artist Creative

She made her original commitment as an Associate in Mission on June 27, 1985. A very special silver jubilee celebration was held for her in May 2010 at her home in Crystal River, Florida, when she was 98 years old. She certainly enjoyed herself.

Sculptor

In 1995 Madeleine wrote, “It has been my privilege to share in the good works of the Sisters of Charity of Cincinnati. Meeting monthly with S. Mary Loyola and the other Associates in Mission continues to enrich my life. I am especially grateful for the friendship of my Prayer Sister, [the late] S. Francetta Hanlon, as we both share an interest in and enjoyment of art.”

Designer

Madeleine was a member of St. Benedict Altar and Rosary Society and an Auxiliary Member of the Legion of Mary.

Madeleine Davis died on Jan. 11, 2014, at the age of 101.

Festive

S. Ann Dorenbusch

aised in Middletown, Ohio, S. Ann Dorenbusch (formerly S. Jane Thomas) was taught by the Sisters of Charity at Holy Trinity School. She credited the Sisters of Charity who taught her with planting seeds of interest in religious life. “The Sisters were excellent educators who nourished my faith; they were wonderful examples of dedicated service,” she said. S. Ann was a Sister of Charity of Cincinnati for 60 years, entering in September 1954.

o Compassionate Joyful Strong Welcoming Delightful p

S. Ann began teaching in Catholic high schools in 1956 at Holy Trinity, Trinidad, Colorado, where she remained for 11 years. In 1971, she began a seven-year ministry, teaching Spanish at the College of Mount St. Joseph, serving as chair of the Modern Language Department. She spent five summers of volunteer ministry with migrant farm workers in Michigan, Colorado and Ohio, interpreting in the clinics, visiting camps and teaching English to adults. This began 10 years of foreign missionary work in Puno, Peru (1979’87) among the Quechua Indians. “This was a turning point for me, sensing a call to move on to pastoral ministry with Hispanics,” she said. She and S. Florence Cremering went to San Juan/Sagrada Familia Parish, Cleveland, Ohio, in 1990, offering a shared ministry among the Puerto Rican families for nine “very happy and fulfilling years.” Associate Patrice Harty followed S. Ann as Spanish teacher at Bishop Fenwick, Middletown, Ohio. “When I became an Associate we connected, loved speaking Spanish together, and remained friends through the years. I have always admired her gentle spirit, her compassion, and her love of the indigenous poor in South America,” Patrice said. S. Victoria Marie Forde recalls, “For me, Ann was a gentle woman with a delightful sense of humor, an excellent faculty member at the College, and longtime friend.” In 2003 S. Ann retired from full-time ministry, remaining in El Paso, Texas, and then Anthony, New Mexico, volunteering across the border in Anapra, Mexico, where she coordinated outreach to handicapped children and directed a catechetical program. S. Ann Dorenbusch died August 11, 2014, at the age of 80 in Mother Margaret Hall. 12

S. Alice Glutz

Alice Glutz (formerly S. Raymond) attended Immaculata School, Mount Adams, and graduated from St. Mary, Hyde Park. She was the middle child of five. Four of the five entered religious life. It was the influence of the Sisters of Charity she had in high school that led S. Alice to live the life of a Sister; she never regretted her choice, entering the Community in September 1946. S. Alice earned a Bachelor of Science degree in education from the College of Mount St. Joseph, Cincinnati, in 1963. She ministered in education for 50 years, 32 of those years were in her native Cincinnati. She began as a primary teacher at St. Francis Xavier, Albuquerque, New Mexico, in 1949. In 1951 S. Alice moved to St. Mary, Jackson, Michigan (1951-’62). She transitioned to junior high teaching for the next 15 years at schools in Springfield, Cincinnati and Milford, all in Ohio. It was in 1986 that S. Alice began praying for direction about a new ministry. She decided to serve as a school secretary when an opening came at Price Hill Catholic, Cincinnati. It was a ministry she truly enjoyed after all the years of experiencing children in the formal classroom. She served at the school for five years before moving to Holy Family School, Cincinnati, to serve in the same capacity. S. Kathleen Ann Murray ministered with S. Alice at Holy Family. “Alice loved the children and their parents,” she said. “She was a nice addition to the faculty and often shared her interest in sports with the students. We enjoyed some good times together and recalled stories from those school days in our retirement years.” In her autobiography S. Alice said, “Being in the office was like being in a grandmother role. I didn’t have to discipline – just give out hugs, peppermints, ice packs and band aids.” After retiring to the Motherhouse in 1999, S. Alice served as a regular volunteer at the Front Desk and also gave time to the employee tutoring program. S. Alice Glutz died Nov. 2, 2014, at the age of 85 in Mother Margaret Hall. 13

o Humorous Lovely smile Cheerful Sports fan Fun-loving p

S. Helen Groeber

Helen Groeber (formerly S. Marie Norberta) attributed the Sisters of Charity who taught her at St. Bernard School in Springfield, Ohio, as examples of gentleness and compassion, a way of life she wanted to follow. Her parents supported her decision to enter the Community after graduating from Catholic Central High School in 1938, beginning her 76 years as a Sister of Charity of Cincinnati.

o Inclusive Friendly Leader Innovative Intellectual p

S. Helen taught in schools in Cincinnati, Xenia, and Kettering in Ohio; Royal Oak and Bay City in Michigan; and Trinidad in Colorado. She began her teaching in 1940 at Holy Family, Price Hill (Cincinnati), followed by 25 dedicated years of high school teaching with seven years as assistant principal at Archbishop Alter (1963-’70) in Kettering, Ohio. S. Martha Walsh was a student of S. Helen’s at St. Brigid in Xenia; she remembers her as “an energetic teacher, respectful to the students, but no nonsense in the classroom. She had a sense of humor and was lots of fun outside the classroom.” In 1970 S. Helen was elected to leadership in the Dayton Province, a congregational position she held for three years. She directed an emergency services program, a food center for the poor, supported by churches of various denominations after completing her SC leadership position. For the next 15 years she ministered at Good Samaritan Hospital, Dayton, during which time she became certified in gerontology, served as a patient representative and finally as director of volunteer services. In 1988 Sister went to Norwood, Ohio, as pastoral minister at St. Matthew’s parish where she helped to merge St. Matthew, St. Elizabeth and Sts. Peter & Paul; in her six years there she initiated a parish council as well as the worship and building and grounds committees. In 1994 she brought her pastoral gifts to St. Joseph, North Bend, Ohio, and was awarded the Business Associate of the Year Award in 1997 by the OKI Chapter of the American Business Women’s Association for her tireless work on behalf of the needy residents of North Bend, Addyston and Cleves. S. Helen Groeber died Feb. 5, 2014, at the age of 94 in Mother Margaret Hall. 14

S. Ruth Marian Hanekamp

“I

remember S. Ruth Marian Hanekamp’s wonderful dry humor, and how impressed I was that she waited so long to enter the Sisters of Charity, keeping her vocation alive until her family responsibilities were met and she was free to do so,” remembered her Band member S. Patricia Wittberg. Those family responsibilities included caring for her mother, and until her care was no longer needed, Sister waited to fully devote herself to the Sisters of Charity of Cincinnati. In that time, her vocation never wavered. Born in Newport, Kentucky, S. Ruth Marian graduated from Our Lady of the Angels High School in Cincinnati, Ohio, in 1947. She attended Villa Madonna College and worked as a claims clerk and underwriter for an insurance company. She also served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1952 until 1955 before returning to the insurance work. In 1958 she joined the faculty of St. Boniface School, Cincinnati, Ohio, where she taught with the Sisters of Charity for eight years and cared for her ill mother. S. Ruth Marian appreciated working with the Sisters and learning more about the Congregation; in 1966 she chose to enter the Sisters of Charity. She began her ministry in education as a Sister at Annunciation School, Cincinnati, in 1968 where she taught primary grades. She served at Holy Family School, Cincinnati, 1972-’75; St. Mary, Chillicothe, Ohio, 1975-’77; and St. Dominic, Cincinnati, 1978-’80. S. Marie Patrice Joyce met S. Ruth Marian when she came to St. Boniface as a lay teacher in the late 1950s. She recalled, “Ruth was a delightful person to teach with, and most generous. We shared ideas, classes and lots of funny stories. When I moved back to the Mount we visited about the St. Boniface days; many times the laughter came back too. I will miss my friend.” After retiring from active ministry in 1996, Sister continued her gift for making rosaries, only using the best beads and materials to create the rosaries before giving them away. S. Ruth Marian Hanekamp died June 8, 2014, at the age of 85 in Mother Margaret Hall. 15

o Dry humor Delightful Charming Funny Impressive p

Associate Edith Hendrix

ssociate Edith Hendrix was born on April 24, 1921, in Kassel, Germany. Her first husband died in World War II. After the war, Edith traveled to the United States. She had one son, Klaus.

Edith worked at Penrose Hospital in Colorado Springs, Colorado, as an accountant for more than 20 years. During this time she remarried. At Penrose she met S. Ruth Anne Panning and they became dear friends.

o Helpful Willing to serve Peaceful Good friend Supportive p

She made her original commitment as an Associate on Jan. 4, 1986, with S. Ruth Anne as her contact person and S. Patmarie Bernard as the regional Associate coordinator. S. Ruth Anne wrote, “My Associate is a convert to the Catholic faith. I think I have played an important role in that conversion. She has an elderly husband with many problems and I feel our conversations offer significant support to her in this and other ways.” In 1993, Edith wrote, “In September, S. Ruth Anne and I cooked and served dinner to the residents of Vermijo House and we will continue to do so. I give a lot of time to the elderly who belong to my neighborhood Bible Study – helping with trips to grocery stores, visiting in hospitals, giving time and encouragement at funerals, cooking meals, etc. My husband is 88 years old and is totally dependent on me.” After Associate gatherings Edith “always came away with a feeling of inner peace and belonging,” she wrote. “Belonging is very important to me since I was raised in Germany and have almost no family in the States.” In 1996 Edith completed an Annual Reflection Process for Associates. On it she wrote the following, “My participation as an Associate in Mission has given me peace in my daily life. My contact Sister, S. Ruth Anne, is always available to help with special tasks. She is also my best friend.” In 2011, Edith Hendrix and four other Associates celebrated 25 years of commitment. She died May 19, 2014, in Colorado Springs.

S. Rita Margaret Kroger

Rita Margaret Kroger was “a prayerful, dedicated, professional religious woman who quietly served the Sisters of Charity and the Lord faithfully for many years,” remembered S. Roslyn Hafertepe.

S. Rita Margaret was born in Dayton, Ohio, attending Our Lady of the Rosary School and Julienne High School. She was the second child of seven. After attending Miami Jacobs Business School and working in a Dayton office Sister knew she wanted to become a woman religious. She was attracted to the Sisters of Charity, mainly because of the variety of ministries in which the Congregation was involved. She entered the Community in September 1945, a Sister of Charity of Cincinnati for 68 years. S. Rita Margaret earned a Bachelor of Science degree in accounting from St. Louis University, St. Louis, Missouri, in 1956. She ministered in her native Ohio for 44 years, beginning in the business office at Good Samaritan Hospital, Dayton, from 1947-’52. She served the Congregation in the Treasurer’s Office at the Motherhouse of the Sisters of Charity briefly. In 1960, Sister became controller at St. Mary-Corwin Hospital, Pueblo, Colorado, a position she held until 1973. The next 30 years Sister again served in the Treasurer’s Office at the Motherhouse. “S. Rita Margaret was a beautiful, gentle soul and a brilliant accountant,” said S. Dorothy William Englert. “She kept our books meticulous for many years. I always looked in on her when I was in Mother Margaret Hall to see her lovely smile.” “She was a model of dedication and professionalism,” added CFO Tim Moller, “and she literally balanced records to the penny.” While residing in Mother Margaret Hall Sister remained interested in the finances of the Community and would offer assistance on occasion. She continued her interests in watching baseball and football on TV, as well as walking. She appreciated the time to pray and read. She wished for us as a Congregation to continue to affect peace among all peoples. S. Rita Margaret Kroger died Feb. 19, 2014, at the age of 97 in Mother Margaret Hall. 17

o Gentle soul Brilliant accountant Meticulous Dedicated Professional p

S. Betty Jane Meneghin

Sister of Charity for 67 years, S. Betty Jane Meneghin (formerly S. Jane Miriam) was born and raised in Detroit, Michigan. She attended the Detroit public schools and met the Sisters of Charity attending after-school catechism classes at Guardian Angels parish in Detroit. She was the third of four children.

o Quiet Unassuming Supportive Enjoyed life Friendly p

Early in her high school years S. Betty Jane shared with the Sisters that she wished to join them after high school; they suggested that she come to the academy at Mount St. Joseph for her senior year to learn more about the life of a Sister before entering. That she did and was the last girl admitted to the academy; it closed in June 1947. S. Betty Jane admired the Sisters she had met for their love and dedicated service. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in education from the College of Mount St. Joseph, Cincinnati, in 1960. She received a Master of Education in reading from Marygrove College, Detroit, in 1974. Her degrees served her well in her years of helping young people appreciate the opportunities for learning and growing. S. Betty Jane spent 47 years in education, as intermediate and junior high teacher and as school librarian, ministering in Illinois, Colorado, New Mexico and Ohio. Her last 30 years were spent in her native Michigan, including 19 years at Queen of Martyrs in Beverly Hills, Michigan (1977-â&#x20AC;&#x2122;96). In 1996 S. Betty Jane retired from active ministry and moved to Mount St. Joseph, but remained with library work, this time in Mother Margaret Hall with her senior Sisters. She considered this to be a privilege. When Sister became a resident of Mother Margaret Hall she appreciated the time for prayer as well as keeping up with technology, reading and watching spectator sports. S. Victoria Marie Forde remembers S. Betty Jane as â&#x20AC;&#x153;a good friend, who was quiet and unassuming. In retirement she took part in as many activities as she could. Betty Jane truly enjoyed life, always welcoming and supportive.â&#x20AC;? S. Betty Jane Meneghin died Nov. 1, 2014, at the age of 84 in Mother Margaret Hall. 18

S. Therese Marie Moledor

orn in Akron, Ohio, S. Therese Marie Moledor entered the Vincentian Sisters of Charity from St. Mary parish in Akron, Ohio. She graduated from St. Mary High School in 1947. After graduation Sister worked part-time and became the caretaker for her bedridden mother; her mother died in January 1950. She was first introduced to the Vincentian Congregation through her parish pastor; he arranged for the visit to the VSCs Congregational Home, Villa San Bernardo. She entered the Community in June 1950. S. Therese Marie earned a Bachelor of Science degree in education from St. John’s Teachers College, Cleveland, Ohio, in 1969. She ministered in education in the Greater Cleveland area for more than 50 years, beginning at Holy Trinity, Lorain, Ohio, in 1953. She taught kindergarten through grade four, traveling the Cleveland Diocese from Lorain to Parma, to Akron, Barberton and then to Wadsworth. S. Therese Marie ministered at Sacred Heart of Jesus School in Wadsworth for eight years (1998-2006). There she filled many roles: teacher, educational consultant and teacher-aide. Over those 50-plus ministry years in the classroom, Sister served at Saints Cyril & Methodius (1954-’62 and 1971-’76) in Barberton; St. Rita (1965-’71) in Solon; and St. Mary (1987-’97) in Bedford. In 2006 she moved to Villa San Bernardo where her ministry centered on prayer and reaching out to others in need. “S. Therese Marie was a gentle spirit. She smiled a lot and was a welcoming person. Throughout her teaching career, she loved the little ones, especially bringing them closer to Jesus. When she resided at Mother Margaret Hall she always welcomed company and had good news to share with visitors,” said S. Regina Kusnir. Added S. Diana Durling, “She loved to send notes and cards, as well as to receive them. She never missed sending them, on a holiday or special occasion, to her friends and family. She wrote more cards than anyone can imagine.” S. Therese Marie Moledor died Sept. 20, 2014, at the age of 85 in Mother Margaret Hall. 19

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S. Mary Schlanser

orn and raised in Cincinnati, Ohio, S. Mary Schlanser (formerly S. Ann Borromeo) attended St. Catherine of Siena School and graduated from Mount St. Joseph Academy. She credits the Sisters of Charity who taught her in the seventh through 12th grades with her vocation; she saw them as women religious who were ‘more down-to-earth and real’ and she wanted to follow a life like them. S. Mary entered religious life in February 1942, a Sister of Charity of Cincinnati for 72 years.

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Sister earned a Bachelor of Science degree in education from The Athenaeum of Ohio in 1947 and a Bachelor of Arts in English from the College of Mount St. Joseph in 1964; she received a Master of Education in theology from Xavier University, Cincinnati, in 1972. S. Mary taught in schools in Cincinnati, Xenia, Greenville, Sidney and Springfield in Ohio; Detroit in Michigan; and Chillum in Maryland. Of her 47 years in education she ministered as a junior high teacher for 37 of those years. She had a special gift for that age group and enjoyed their challenges; they gave her energy. Besides the classroom instruction S. Mary also served as elementary principal while at Holy Angels, Sidney, Ohio. Nearly half of her years in education were spent in the classroom at Little Flower School in Mt. Airy, Cincinnati. She ended her teaching ministry at Little Flower in 1991. S. Mary then became director of the Extended Day Program in the parish, a position she held for five years. In 1996 Sister remained living at Little Flower convent and visited parishioners in their homes and nursing facilities, bringing Holy Communion and writing letters and cards for them. She continued as a lector, catechist and Eucharistic minister as well. She enjoyed being part of the parish community. S. Annette Muckerheide, a cousin and fellow Sister of Charity, remembers S. Mary as a lovely, joyful person. “She loved people, especially children, and always wanted to be of service,” S. Annette said. S. Mary Schlanser died June 26, 2014, at the age of 88 in Mother Margaret Hall.

S. Mildred Shaver

Sister of Charity for 74 years, S. Mildred Shaver (formerly S. Rose Miriam) was born and raised in Michigan. S. Millie attended St. Mary’s grade and high schools, Lansing, and graduated from St. Mary High School, where she was taught by the Sisters of Charity. At the age of 19 she decided to join “these women I so admired for their high academic standards,” she once said. Sister’s degrees in education prepared her well for her 52 years in ministry, 35 of those years in education. She began as a primary teacher in 1942 at Sacred Heart, Denver, Colorado. From 1942-1977, S. Millie taught at schools in Ohio, Colorado and her native Michigan. She served as principal at Holy Name, Cleveland, Ohio (1955-’58); St. Bernard, Springfield, Ohio (1958-’64); and St. Mary, Port Huron, Michigan (1971-’77).

o Loving

In 1977 she was invited to become part of a parish pastoral team at St. Basil, East Detroit, Michigan. This new experience prompted her to become certified in pastoral care, a field she loved and ministered in for the next 17 years.

Prayerful spirit

In 1994 S. Millie retired from active ministry, but remained very involved in teaching English as a second language in the Macomb County Literacy Program and serving as a Eucharistic minister to nursing home residents in the Greater Detroit area. She moved to Mount St. Joseph in 2009 where she appreciated time for prayer, as well as writing poetry, doing needlework and spending time with her Sisters in community.

Admirable

S. Rita Cocquyt remembers her friend as having a ‘forever smile.’ “We became good friends over 45 years ago while at St. Mary’s,” she said. “As we moved on to different ministries in Michigan we kept in touch as distance was not a barrier. Millie loved to travel and appreciated the beauties of nature, especially the beautiful lakes in Michigan. She was compassionate and gracious, but also ‘fun loving.’ We enjoyed our time together here after we both retired.” S. Mildred Shaver died Oct. 23, 2014, at the age of 92 in Mother Margaret Hall.

Kind smile

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S. Maura Jean Tapke

he youngest of seven children and a twin, S. Maura Jean Tapke was born and raised in Cincinnati, Ohio, taught by the Sisters of Charity. She appreciated the dedicated spirit she experienced in her Sister teachers and hoped to convey that same, admired quality to the patients she nursed in the hospital. During high school S. Maura Jean became interested in the United States Post High School Cadet Nurse Corps, initiated to help alleviate the shortage of nurses during World War II. S. Maura Jean graduated with honors as a cadet nurse in 1945.

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S. Maura Jean entered the Sisters of Charity in 1947. She began her nursing ministry at Good Samaritan Hospital in Dayton, Ohio, in 1949 as a nursing supervisor, having responsibility for staff and patients on multiple floors. She held similar responsibilities at Mount San Rafael Hospital in Trinidad, Colorado, and Penrose Hospital in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Sister enjoyed the spirit of adventure that she found among the people there. In 1964 S. Maura Jean was called upon to ‘come home’ to serve as head nurse in Mother Margaret Hall, ministering to the health care needs of her Sisters and directing the staff assigned to the fourth floor. This she did for the final 24 years of active ministry; she became a familiar, welcoming face in Mother Margaret Hall. Close friends for more than 40 years, S. Maria Dolorata Felix recalled the dedication of her friend, “Sisters and staff would request to be assigned to S. Maura Jean’s floor in Mother Margaret Hall because of her reputation for excellent patient care. Nothing was too much to ask when it was for the good of the patient,” S. Maria Dolorata said. In 1988 S. Maura Jean moved to volunteering in the medical records department of Mother Margaret Hall. It allowed her time to create needed baby wear for the Cincinnati Good Samaritan Hospital Newborn Unit. Over time S. Maura Jean crocheted or knitted close to 2,000 baby caps, a contributing ministry she was happy to serve. S. Maura Jean Tapke died Nov. 10, 2014, at the age of 88 in Mother Margaret Hall. 22

S. Mary Patricia Wagner

Mary Patricia Wagner “was a welcoming, happy and interested person. She enveloped you with her warmth,” remembered S. Regina Kusnir.

Growing up in Lima, Ohio, S. Mary Pat was taught by the Sisters of Charity in both grade and high schools. She attributed the love, faith and prayer in her home to what influenced her to become a religious. A Sister of Charity of Cincinnati for 71 years, S. Mary Pat taught in schools in Ohio, Michigan, New Mexico and Colorado. She began teaching in 1944 at St. Mary School, Albuquerque, New Mexico; although she never wanted to teach she did so for 15 years in elementary grades, six in high school and three as a high school administrator. Sister ministered as a librarian at the College of Mount St. Joseph for 18 years; while there she took courses in gerontology, concentrating on pastoral ministry. Sister was then offered a position as a pastoral minister at Mother Margaret Hall. She loved these 11 years with her older Sisters, sharing their “Christ moments” and coming to appreciate what tremendous persons they were. Once again the Spirit led Sister to move to St. Joseph Home (Sharonville, Ohio) where she volunteered in the Day Program; she worked with children who were too young and too fragile to go to school. In her autobiography S. Mary Pat stated, “It is very easy to see Christ in these children, the embodiment of innocence and love. I do not bring Christ to them – they bring Christ to me.” When she moved to Mother Margaret Hall in 2005 S. Mary Pat appreciated the time to pray and to explore new areas of interest, especially art and writing. She entered into all activities, a true champion of trivia and bridge. “Her generous spirit, her hope-filled heart and her compassionate soul were a gift to the Community of Charity. She was a treasure,” remembers S. Marge Kloos. S. Mary Patricia Wagner died July 20, 2014, at the age of 91 in Mother Margaret Hall. She chose a green burial, the first SC to do so.

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S. Lawrence White

Sister of Charity of Cincinnati for 81 years, S. Lawrence White’s family was very Catholic and very loving. She referred to herself as “being surrounded by love and security” in an interview in 1999. “The Church was the foundation for my mother,” she said, “and she convinced my father to give in and let me enter the Sisters of Charity.”

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Sister taught in schools in Cincinnati and Dayton in Ohio; Mount Clemens in Michigan; and Pueblo in Colorado. She began her teaching in 1934 at St. Thomas School in Memphis, Tennessee. S. Lawrence really wanted to be a nurse, but instead gave 42 years to the teaching ministry. In 1965 she served as principal at St. Therese, Pueblo, where she enjoyed the opportunity to delegate and enable others around her to use their gifts to minister. In 1976, leaving the classroom behind, she went into parish pastoral ministry at St. Mary parish, Hyde Park, Cincinnati. It became a ministry for which she was well suited. She gave 20 years of service to the people of the parish, particularly the sick and elderly, visiting more than 70 housebound residents regularly and 20 area nursing facilities. She became known as the “Belle of St. Mary’s.” She once said, “For me the elderly were easier to be with than children; we could have meaningful, deep conversations or just be quiet together.” S. Kathleen Ann Murray’s family loved S. Lawrence’s visits when she brought Holy Communion to her parents. “She and my mom would have a chat on the front porch as part of her weekly visit. S. Lawrence was a dear, faith-filled woman,” S. Kathleen Ann recalls. In 1995 S. Lawrence returned to the Motherhouse to retire. “I ask the Lord what message he is sending me for the day; it’s the listening that is important,” she once said. She appreciated the time to pray and the time to interact. S. Lawrence White died Jan. 7, 2014, at the age of 99 in Mother Margaret Hall.

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