Alumni - Class Notes

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Laurie Poklop, 78, Laurie Poklop ('78) has earned an Ed.D. degree in Higher Education Administration from Northeastern University. She continues to work as a Senior Instructional Designer in Northeastern's Educational Technology Center and also teaches in the M.Ed. in Instructional Design program at UMass/Boston. Laurie lives in Cambridge and Provincetown, Massachusetts with her spouse, Jill Wittmer, and their two children, Cameron (10) and Zoe (7).

2010's

Carly Crittendon, 2010, Kenosha, WI., was named the best high school teacher. She loves working at Bradford High School because of its diverse student population and culturally responsive education. She works in the Language Acquisition Program working with multilingual students in English/literature classes. Her philosophy is to help them become competent with English literacy, "while challenging [her] students to be lifelong learners, better thinkers, and productive members of society." She uses her unique sense of humor and her compassion to engage her students in the material and support them in their educational journey.

2000's

Scott Kruger, 2006, Minneapolis, MN., is working with the learning Disability Association of MN and attending William Mitchell College of Law. His wife, Katie Doucet ('08) is still working with the U.S. Dept. of Fish and Wildlife.

Jav Rivera, 2005, Founded by Carthage Alumni Jav Rivera, 2nd First Look is an article-based website informing readers about little-known films, music, literature, and the arts. Visit the official site at www.2ndFirstLook.com.

Leanne Valdes, 2005, Leanne Valdes, President/Owner of You Name It Events & Administration, is proud to announce that her one-year-old company has been named one of theknot.com's "Best of Weddings 2012" winners. This prestigious honor is earned by top wedding vendors in the nation and is based on client's positive reviews of You Name It's services. Theknot.com is by far the nationwide industry leader for wedding planning and the honor applies for all of 2012.

Kimberly Hanson, 2005, Carey, IL., married Joseph Johnson on May 22, 2011. Kimberly is the daughter of Gary Hanson and Diana Brown Branca.

Dana Allen Ranieri, 2004, Kenosha, WI., married Richard Ranieri on July 1, 2011 in Villa Park, IL.

Nina Jachenko, 2004, LaGrange, IL., and her husband Todd Bunch announce the birth of their daughter, Taylor Rose Bunch. She was born on September 4, 2011.

Kenten "Kent" Dernbach, 2004, Stevens Point, WI., has been named men's basketball assistant at University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. According to the head coach Bob Semling, "Kent was the best fit for the profile we had created for this position. He separated himself from a very strong field of candidates. His experience with Division I and Division III basketball along with admissions experience was something that really stood out."

Sarah W. Weller, 2003, Mukwonago, WI., married Gregory Weller in 2006. She is completing a master's degree in Environmental Engineering at the Milwaukee School of Engineering and will be graduating in May of 2012.

Dominic Piscitiello, 2003, Got engaged to Angela Holbrook.

Alison (Vanden Avond) Prochnow, 2003, Kenosha, WI., and her husband Ron announce the birth of Joshua Jordan (J.J) Prochnow. He was born 8lbs 14ozs, 21 1/4 inches. He joins his brothers Benjamin, 4, and Zachary, 2.

Julie (Gabrys) and Jimmy Knotek , 2003, Julie(Gabrys)Knotek and Jimmy Knotek '03 are thrilled to announce the birth of their son Joshua Thomas. Josh was born on December 20th. He was 6 pounds, 3 ounces, and 20 inches.

Sean Sullivan, 2002, Sean Sullivan and Kimberly Nachowicz are happy to announce their engagement. Sean is currently a Firefighter/EMT in Romeoville and Homewood. Kimberly is the Assistant Director and a Choreographer for Turning Point Dance Company. The wedding will be held in October 2012.

Miya (Ekholm) Kressin, 2002, Miya's novel "What Once Was" was named one of the top indie stories of 2011 by Will Entrekin, founder of Exciting Press. http://willentrekin.com/2011/12/30/the-best-indie-books-of-2011/

1990's

Dani (Lewandowski) Hogan, 1999, Oakcreek, WI., and her husband Tim, announce the birth of their daughter, Quinn Emery, on October 11, 2011. Quinn joins big sister Shea, 2.

Susan Steberl, 1994, WI., is a new member of Godfrey & Kahn, S.C. She is the new Director of Marketing and has more than 13 years of marketing and stategic business development experience. The firm says she "has an excellent understanding of legal marketplace and will be responsible for the firm's overall marketing strategy and business development efforts".

Shawn McCammond, 1992, Byron, IL., and his wife announce the birth of their daughter Remy Krisandra. She was born on 9/29/11. She joins, Angela(23), Seth(21)and Hayden (13). Shawn is the Superintendent of Finance as well as the HR at the Byron Forest Preserve District.

Erica Bakker Kreske, 1990, Temecula,CA., and her husband Josh Kreske announce the birth of their daughter, Jaycee Audrey Kreske. She was born on April 13, 2011 in Wildomar, CA.

1980's

Jean R (Gogolin) Thur, 1988, Oshkosh, WI., and her husband John announce the adoption of Daniel Alexander. He joined his older brothers Nicolai and Dennis on Februrary 2010.

Barry Wintringer, 1988, Hartford, WI., was elected to the Hartford City Council in April 2011.

Roger W. Sievert, 1987, Fresno, CA., died Novemeber 20, 2011 in the compassionate hospice care of Fresno Community Hospital. He was an active Boy Scout and a member of F.A.S.T Swim Team as a young man. He graduated from Carthage College and in 1988 married Mona Bergh. The couple divorced in 1999 and he moved to California to start fresh. He is survived by his parents, his brother, Robert, his nieces, aunts, uncles and counsins, as well as many loving friends.

Christa Schmid Kulidge, 1985, Aztec, NM., has changed careers. After 26 years in the classroom, Christa is now the exceptional program director for Aztec Municipal Schools in Aztec, New Mexico where she oversees all components of special education programs for the district.

Raymond J. Trusky, 1984, Winthrop Harbor, IL. is happily retired from Pactiv Corporation in Lake Forest after over forty years of service. All the companies which he served were under the Tenneco umbrella Care Coporation. His retirement commenced on 1/1/2011.

Florence M. Onnink, 1984, Brevard, SC., died on November 30, 2011. She received her BA from the University of Wisconsin Parkside and her MA from Carthage College. She was an elementary teacher in Yorkville, WI. for fifteen years. She later became a member of the Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd in Brevard, NC and the local quilters guild. She also donated handmade infant quilts to roughly 200 infants. She is survived by her husband Allen, two sons, David Onnink and Paul Onnink and his wife Ann; two daughters, Marcia Koenig and husband Evan, and Patricia Onnink; one brother, Elmer Gessert and wife Vernita; two sisters, Doris Muesegadas and Marian Young and husband Morris; and four grandchildren.

Lois (Griffith) Topping , 1983, Coralville, IA., has returned to her native state of Iowa near family and the beloved Hawkeyes. Travels have included visits with son, Jeff, in Pubai and Italy, with Susan in Texas, and with Stuart in Madison.

Brad Eden, 1982, Brad Eden, 1982, recently became Dean of Library Services at Valparaiso University in Valparaiso, Indiana. His most recent book _Middle-earth Minstrel: Essays on Music in Tolkien_ was published by McFarland in 2010.

Dr. Brad Eden , 1982, Valparsaiso, IN., has recently been appointed Dean of Library Services at Valparaiso University. His wife, Sonja Streuber, has also been hired as Director of Strategic Projects and Initiatives for the College of Engineering at Valparaiso University.

1970's

Robert Klatt II "Skip", 1977, Long Grove, WI., passed away on November 21, 2011. He enjoyed fishing and collecting and was a Silver Beaver recipient. He worked for American Chemet as Vice President. He is the beloved father of Christina Klatt (Chris) and the father of Sarah Tschannen, Robert W. III,"Trey", and Maxwell. He is the cherished son of Robert Klatt and the late Jane Klatt. His isters are Alice, Kimberly and Jennifer. He is also the great uncle of many nieces and nephews.

LeeAnn Lambrecht, 1976, Kernensville, NC., married Charles Banks on October 23, 2011 at Emerald Isle, NC. They will reside in Kernensville, NC.

Bill Chapin, 1975, Grayslake, IL., retired in may from Warren township where he taught English for 15 years and served as director of educational technology for 17 years. He is now teaching jazz piano and consulting on educational technology in a number of schools. His wife Amy, ('81), runs academic coaching services where she specializes in coordinating all of a family's resources in favor of their student's learning. She also tutors College of Lake County students in writing in the college writing center.

John Shenloogian, 1975, Brink, NJ., and his wife Bobbi Shenloogian announce the birth of their first grandchild, Braelynn Alysse Ingram. She was born July 24, 2011 in Brick, N.J to Dana Shenloogian(Ingram) and James Ingram.

Marie Kay (Busch) Wingard, 1974, is still teaching school and has four grandkids. She is very busy.

Jeffery Wedge, 1974, Port Orange, FL., Just published another book, "Writing My Way into Paradise". The book is available on Amazon.

Jack Bainbridge, 1974, Frankfort, IL., is enjoying life with his wife and three children. He is an attorney in Flossmoor, Illinois and has been in the general practice of law for 32 years.

Doris M. Vakos, 1973, Las Vegas, NV., passed away December on 23, 2011 at the home of her son in Las Vegas. She graduated from Kenosha High School in 1941 and then attended St. Luke's School of Nursing, graduating in 1945. In 1973 she graduated from Carthage College, Magna Cum Laude. She married Klem Vakos on August 11,1949 and was employed first as a nurse and then as a hospital administrator by St. Luke's Hospital. She was also an active member of St. Luke's Episcopal Church and an active bridge player. Additional interests included golf, participating in women's clubs at Johnson's Park and Shoop's Park. She will be greatly missed. Doris is survived by her son, James Vakos and other friends and relatives. She was preceded in death by her husband and her daughter Penelope.

Sandra Johnson Adams, 1972, Pittsfield, NH., Congratulates the college for the 165th, 50th and 25th Anniversaries of Carthage College. She is the proud mother of 4 and grandmother of 6. She retired as director of Human Resources for the state of NH.

Frank P. Columbus, 1972, Libertyville, IL., has a tax practice in Mundelein IL., two beautiful grandson, Alexi and Benjamin and a grand daughter due Febuary 2012.

J.Scott, 1971, Crystal Lake, IL., and Colleen J. Campbell('75) are the proud grandparents of Christopher Scott Campbell, born on 11-17-10. His parents are Matthew('01) and Sarah Campbell of Chicago. Colleen, a psychoptherapist since 1977, has opened her own practice in Crystal Lake, IL called "Colleen Campbell, Counselling and Consulting". She works with adults, adolescents, couples and families. Scott serves as chief operating officer for family service and community mental health center for McHenry Country, IL.

Helen Mitchell Williamson, 1971, Random Lake, WI., has retired from both careers as an educator and real estate agent. Besides spending time with her four grandchildren and two great grandchildren, she is a reading volunteer at the local elementary school and a tutor teaching English to an adult learner.

Roger Klein, 1971, Watertown, WI., retired from his position as a school psychologist in 2004 and has been working as a clinical psychologist in a private practice at Family Resources Associates, Inc. since that time. He is also on the teaching faculty at the National Institute of Trauma and Loss(tlcinstitute.org). He recently published his second book entitled "Relax.calm: Helping Teens Manage Stress Using Relaxation and Guided Imagery". He invites anyone interest to see more information at www.innercoaching.com.

Gregory Bergner , 1971, So. Lake Tahoe, CA., was awarded the spirit of Philanthropy Award from Barton Hospital Foundation for "extraordinary dedication to the health of the South Lake Tahoe community at large and to the work of Barton Memorial Hospital in particular." Greg and his partners established a low income clinic in 1989 which still serves the area's uninsured and underinsured.

Col. Robert M. Zdenek, 1970, Shalimar, Fl., passed away March 11, 2011. He served 31 years in the U.S. Air Force as a pilot and was honored with numerous decorations and medals. His is rememberd for his passion for humanity and for his "insatiable drive for success". He was a light to those who knew him and his friends remember him as fun-loving, wonderful and always positive. Robert was happily married to Linda R. Zdenek for 39 years. Robert is survived by his wife, Linda; his daughters, Ericka, and Samantha and husband Jay Wells; two grandchildren, Katherine Cruz and Corben Wells; his mother, Betty Zdenek-Rosenbaum; his siblings, Dave and his wife Julie, Jim, Jeff, and Jean Zdenek. He was preceded in death by his father, Robert J. Zdenek.

1960's

Tim Yanacheck, 1969, Tim has again been selected by USA Track & Field to be assistant team manager for the USA national ultramarathon team. Team USA will be going to Italy for the annual world championship race on April 22, 2012. This is the fifth time Tim has been selected. Last year, in The Netherlands, the American women's team won the Team Silver Medal for second place in the world, and the American men's team won their first-ever Team Gold Medal for first place. At Carthage, Tim lettered 8 times in cross country and track, 1965-'69. Tim lives in Madison, WI, with his wife Ann Heaslett, a 5-time member of the national team.

Carolyn Wielgas, 1968, and her husband Jack retired this past June. They have started to travel in their new RV, along with "the girls", Megan and Lucinda, our newer family addition(a standard poodle).

Neva Alberta Lura, 1967, St. Petersburg, FL., and Wayne L. Lura celebrated their 50th Wedding Anniversary on July 1, 2011. They were married July 1, 1961 at First Christian Church, Kenosha, WI. The anniversary celebration was hosted by their children David and Janet on July 1, 2011 at Central Christian Church, St. Petersburg, FL. Friends and family gave them a "card shower". A good time was enjoyed by all.

Don Welke, 1965, Ramona, CA., announces that he will be recognized for his career contributions by the Professional Baseball Scouts Foundation at gala in Beverly Hills, CA, on 1/14/12. Don will recieve the prestigious Legends in Scouting Award. Don has spent over 40 years in pro baseball scouting and currently serves as Senior Assistant to the General Manager of the Texas Rangers. A lucheon honoring this recognition, as well as his service to the organization, was held on 12/1/11 at Ranger Stadium in Arlington, TX which featured a video presentation of his contribution to the game. Among those who spoke were Ranger President Nolan Ryan, GM Jon Daniels, and Field Manager Ron Washington. Welke was a four year baseball letterman at Carthage between 1961-65 and later coached high school and collegiate baseball and basketball prior to becoming full-time scout for the Toronto Blue Jays. He also worked for the Orioles and Dodgers prior to joining the Rangers in 2006. Don resides in Arlington, TX and has recently signed a 3-year contract extention with the Rangers.

Shelby Henrichs, 1964, passed away on September 4, 2011.

Donald A. Buckert, 1964, Elvaston, IL., retired as Director of Pharmacy, Fort Madision Community Hospital, Fort Madison, IA, a position held for 34-1/2 years. He is now enjoying retirement as PRN Pharmacist and beekeeper and following athletic events of 5 grandchildren.

Rodney Randall, 1964, Naperville, IL., and his wife, Barbara Allen from Oregon, IL., were jointly honored by the Naperville American Legion Post as Citizens of The Year for their past and current service to the Naperville Community. Also, in July 2011, the book "The Gift of Wisdom: Lessons of a Lifetime" was published by Author Neal Whitten. The book is based on life experiences, advice and wisdom of 25 people(including Rod) from across the United States. Rod currently serves as an advisory board member of Carthage's ScienceWorks(Entrepreneurial Studies) Program.

Glenn W. "Butch" Buchert, 1963, Toulun, IL., passed away at the age of 69 surrounded by his wife and family. He was born November 15, 1941 to Glen and Ruth. On June 26, 1965 he married his high school sweetheart, Nancy Hall. He began teaching at Toulon High School after graduating Carthag. His dream was to be in education for 50 years. He taught all science courses and recieved a Master of Science in education and in guidance counseling from Bradley University whie teaching at Toulon High School(now Stark County High School). In 1991, he became a guidance counselor and advised many classes, as well as the National Honor Society and Stark Country Student Council. He had to retire after about 47 years because of a stroke and cancer. He was known as "Mr.B" to his students and most members of the community. He was deeply encouraging and motivating both in academics and in pushing students to get involved and become leaders. He suffered a brain stem stroke in November 2009 and spent months with Nancy in rehabilitation.

Rev. Barbara Ann Allen, 1962, Manhattan, KS., died on Feburary 6, 2011 at Mercy Regional Health Center. The daughter of Rev. Roswell Ehme and Else Marie Andersen Aden, she married Paul Joseph Allen III on June 17, 1972. He preceded her in death on January 9, 1994. She graduated valedictorian from Medford High school and attended Carthage college where she graduated summa cum laude with a bachelor's degree in music. She later recieved a master or arts in religon from Yale University Divinity School and there she first met Joseph. She worked in Christian education and became pastor at Martinson Avenue Chirstiain Church. In 1993, the couple adopted Carlos, a teenage Honduran native. Rev. Barabara became the first woman to serve as an area minister in the denonimination when she was called as the Northeast Area Minister of the Christian Church. When her health failed she joined son Paul IV and family in Farmville N.C, where she served as an elder of First Christian Church and hospice volunteer. Survivors include two sons, Rev. Paul J. Allen IV and Carlos Sierra Alen, her mother, Mrs. Else Maria Aden, brother Rev. Dr. Ross E Aden, sister Cheryl Aden and five grandchildren.

Warren Gammeter, 1962, Has recently traveled to the "real Carthage" which he has wanted to see since he attended Carthage College. He took a cruise with his wife, Carol, which went from Barcelona to Dover, looped around the western Mediterranean and included a day in Tunis before going past Gibraltar and on north to England. The famous circular harbor of Carthage with its central island can still be seen. Most of the original Carthage ruins lie below Roman ruins and therefore have not been uncovered. The highlight of the visit was the Bardo Museum, full of Roman artifacts including man beautiful mosaics. There were far more mosaics than they had ever seen in Italy.

Bob Austin, 1962, Bob Austin, Palatine Township, IL, operates SPA Consulting (1997) and SIMG (2006), Insurance MGA, with 3 partners located in Columbia, IL, Des Moines and Osseo,MN. Both companies are "virtual" that allows him to work from anywhere he and his wife (Susan) travel, which includes part of the winters at their Condo on Hilton Head. The Austin's 3 children, their spouses and 10 grandchildren (ranging from 1 to 17) live in the Chicago Area. In addition to work and attending grandchildren's functions Bob works out 5-6 mornings a week with the "young" crew at 5. Peter Greenlimb (1965) is one of the few older guys that work out at 5 AM and loves to introduce Bob as one of his Professors at CC.

Dr. Donald H. Piehl, 1961, New London, NC., and his wife had a great time at their 50th reunion. Their daughter and family moved to Beijing, China to teach at the western academy of Beijing, an American International School. They are going to visit in January, and are also going to Harbin China, the ice festival city, during the Chinese New Year.

1950's

Charles R. Vavrin, MD. , 1958, Arlington, TX., is still working after 50 years. His work load has lightened, however, and he welcomed his first Grandchild in 2011.

Frederick Lesher, 1958, was presented the 2011 Bronze Passenger Pigeon Special Recognition Award for distinguished service to the Wisconsin Society for Ornithology.

Rev. Phil Hausknecht, Ph. D, 1957, Phoenix, AZ., has just returned from a three month interim ministry at St. Paul International Lutheran Church, Tokyo, Japan. There she heard stories from volunteer who assisted in the recovery efforts in NE Japan from the trifecta of earthquake tsunami and nuclear radiation. She reports that over 20,000 people died or are still missing. Some people from her congregation, as well as Japanese Lutheran Congregations and the Japan Lutheran Seminary and College also have volunteered in recovery efforts.

Don Riechers, 1951, Don retired as Pastor of Lord of the Lake Lutheran Church, Diamond City, AR on August 1, 2011. He had served there for the past 27 years. From 1955 to 1975 he was a chaplain in the U.S. Air Force. He then served a three point parish in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan for 9 years. Since May 21st, 1955 he has been married to Wanda. They have three children and six grand- children. His e-mail address is riechers@webtv.net.

Richard Anderson, 1951, Rice Lake, WI., passed away on November 7, 2011. Dick was born in Clinton, Iowa and attended Carthage College before transferring to the University of Iowa. He and his wife(Dottie Frank '51) lived in Wauwatosa, WI., for 56 years before moving to Rice Lake in 2007. He was president of the Carthage College Alumni Association from 1971-1973. He was also a member of the Carthage Board of Trustees from 1986-1988. He is survived by his wife of 62 years and four children: Susan Rether of Rice Lake and a 1974 Carthage graduate, Karen Garrick of Statesboro, GA., Bob Anderson of Charlotte, N.C., and Kisbrendel of Rice Lake WI.

Reverand John F. Grimes, 1951, Monmouth, IL. passed away on November 23, 2011. He became a minister at the age of seveneteen, and in earlier years he was licensed with the Methodist Church. He was later ordained by the Association of Fundmental Churches, Inc. He was offered ordination in the Old Catholic Church but chose to minister interdenominationally and has ministered in approximately twenty different denominations and has pastured ten Methodists churches, one Assembly of God church and the Olena Community Church, in addition to many others. He was married twice during his life. His first wife, Marilyn P. Detrick passed away in June, 1994. His second wife, Ester L. Detrick survives. He is survived by his wife, his two sons and three sisters as well as one brother.

Rudolph (Rudy) Asmus, 1951, passed away on November 20, 2011.

Roland R. Krinker, 1950, Kenosha, WI., passed away on October 20, 2011 at St. Joseph Home and Rehabilitation at the age of 83. He was preceded in death by his first wife Ann Evelyn. He was a sales consultant for 17 years and a member of Lord of Life Lutheran Church and the Downtown Business Association. In 1987 he married his second wife, Marilyn, who survives him along with his six sons, Russell, Richard, Randall, Ronald, Robert and Rod. Other survivors include his step son, Douglas Noreen, and his step daugther, Heather.

Dorothy L. Zarcoff, 1950, Byron, IL., died on December 18, 2011 at the age of 83. She married George Zarcoff on July 23, 1953 and they were married for 52 years. She graduated cum laude and taught at Byron Elementary School. She was an avid college sports fan and enjoyed spending the winter months with her husband in Tucson, AZ. She was also a founding member of All Saints Lurteran Church and served on the alter guild for many years. She is survived by her sister, Elaine Asmus, and is preceeded in death by her husband in 2005.

Dorothy Reidner Zarcoff, 1950, died on December 18, 2011.

1940's

John Timmerman, 1949, Huntly, IL., passed away on October 7, 2011 while surrounded by his family. He was a member of St. Catherine of Siena Church and taught mathematics and coached at Leaf River as well as Zion. He was the head foodball coach at Dundee from 1957 to 1966, at which time he accepted a teaching/coaching position at Barrington. He retired in 1984. He was inducted into the "Coaches Hall of Fame" in 1992. He was a positive man who loved to entertain others with jokes and stories. He will be greatly missed. Survivors include his two sons, Micheal and Mark and his two daughters Dr. Maria Timmerman and MaryBeth.

Shirley (Rau) Hileman, 1949, Knoxville, TN., will still participate in some of the activities of the college of Communications at the University of Tennesse where her husband, was dean of the college prior to his death.

Candice (Frech) Ledman and Dan Ledman, 04 and 02, Dan and Candice welcomed their twin girls, Alissa and Brianna, to the world on May 17th, 2011, weighing 5lbs 10oz and 5lbs 12oz. They join big brother, Cole, age 2.

Deven Rudy, , has joined Youth Villages as a teacher-counselor at the Youth Villages-Inner Harbor campus in Douglasville, Ga., which provides residential treatment services for children with emotional, behavioral and mental health issues.