We are delighted to welcome Dolores Wanzek Portz · Dolores’s position as Alumnae Coordinator began on March 17, 2016. Updating the alumnae directory has been her biggest challenge,

ReEchoes • Fall 2016 • 1

Fall 2016

Her past role as an Alumnae Association Treasurer in the 1990’s and her long-standing participation in alumnae activities makes her the perfect person to coordinate current alumnae activities. Based on her role as class representative

for the past 55 years, Dolores is experienced in reaching out to other alumnae, tracking down their contact information, and encouraging participation in alumnae events. She is also familiar with our annual Homecoming preparations since she has often volunteered to help with preparation and registrations. As Alumnae Coordinator, Dolores hopes to expand her reach beyond her own graduating class to include other alumnae and to continue working to keep our alumnae connected.

Dolores’s position as Alumnae Coordinator began on March 17, 2016. Updating the alumnae directory has been her biggest challenge, particularly the email addresses and phone numbers. Her position is part-time and she works about eight hours a week. She enjoyed coordinating the Homecoming event this past April along with Mona Will, ’73 and Sister Joanna Illg, ’50. Dolores appreciates everyone’s help with registration, the Liturgy, the luncheon, class photos as well as doing the behind–the-scenes work such as setting up rooms for anniversary classes to meet. She likes working with the Sisters at Good Counsel Hill and looks forward to working with committees for the alumnae association.

Dolores was born and raised in Mankato. She was baptized

at Ss. Peter and Paul’s Church and attended kindergarten and first grade at the parish school. After her family moved to a couple of other locations, they returned to the area and settled in North Mankato where Dolores attended sixth, seventh, and eighth grades at Holy Rosary. Dolores and eight or nine other girls from North Mankato attended GCA as day hops. One of her favorite GCA memories is riding on the Blue Swan or the school bus. An earlier version of the bus was known as the Blue Goose. All her teachers were SSNDs except for one lay person, Mrs. Mark McDonald, who taught English.

After high school, Dolores worked at the National Citizens Bank for ten years. She became a stay-at-home mom after she and Jim adopted their first child in 1970, but went back to working in business in 1983. Dolores retired from Carlson Craft in 2014 after 31 years, mainly in the Accounts Receivable Department.

Dolores and her husband Jim celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in 2016. They have four children and eleven grandchildren. Her son lives in Colorado and her three daughters live in Minnesota. Dolores is active in the Counsel of Catholic Women at the parish and regional level. She and her husband belong to the Serra Club, a group committed to fostering vocations to the priesthood and religious life and supporting seminarians with financial help. For hobbies, Dolores loves reading mysteries and magazines and organizing projects. The skills involved in organizing projects as a hobby should prove useful skills in organizing alumnae activities and updating our directory.

Dolores can be contacted at [email protected] or (507) 389-4279.

We are delighted to welcome Dolores Wanzek Portz,class of 1960, as our new Coordinator for the Alumnae Association.

2 • ReEchoes • Fall 2016

Patricia Cervenka,MLS, J.D. ’62Professor Cervenka has been a tenured Professor of Law and the Director of the Law Library at Marquette University in Milwaukee, Wisconsin for 13 years. The position requires two areas of expertise: law and library science. Her Juris Doctor (JD) or Doctor of Law degree is from the University of Idaho in Moscow, Idaho and her Master of Library Science (MLS) degree is from the University of Iowa in Iowa City, Iowa. Patri-cia’s first college degree was a Bachelor of Arts in French and Latin from Notre Dame College in St. Louis, Missouri.

As Director of the Law Library, Patricia oversees the dual-degree (law degree and library degree) law librarians and their teaching roles, manages the various policies and procedures of the Law Library according to American Bar Association Standards, and is currently completing the transition from a books and journals-based collection to a predominantly electronic collection. The law library provides an array of services for the Law School students as well as for the research and teaching needs of the faculty. Previous to her position as Marquette, she served as director of the law libraries at Mercer University in Macon, Georgia and St. Louis University in St. Louis, Missouri. Patricia has served on many faculty commit-tees; the most memorable one was the Search Committee for the President of Marquette University in 2013-14.

In her role as an educator, Professor Cervenka has taught courses in legal analysis, legal writing, and advanced research courses in taxation, sports law, federal law, and state law. She has also taught a writing seminar and research sessions in the Marquette Sports Law certificate program. Patricia has served on ten American Bar Association Site Evaluation teams con-sisting of law professors, law deans and university administra-tors as law schools undergo their sabbatical review for accredi-tation. In 2015, she chaired an ABA team for the first time at Seton Hall Law School.

Patricia has been the Chair of the Academic Regulations Committee at Marquette for several years. In that capacity she works with student petitions on various matters, either academic or with pursuing semester-long visitorships at another law school. She served as an advisor for the Elder Law Journal at Marquette for two years, advising students on management issues. Serving as a reference for students who have taken her classes as they pursue jobs in the legal market is another important part of her work.

Her favorite role as an educator is working with the students.

Enjoying the students goes back to her first teach-ing experience — teaching high school French. This sense of gratification led her to career in legal education. She finds the law students extremely creative and gratifying to work with on their various research assignments and projects. As she states, “It is fun to work with them as they learn to hone their skills for the precision neces-sary for legal research as we educate them to be Marquette Lawyers.”

A former Law School Dean wrote this about her: “Patricia Cervenka is a great mentor and role model, for her staff, colleagues, and others. While at Mercer she hired a staff member who, with her coaching, moved into more responsible positions while obtaining his college education.

Two of her Mercer colleagues are now themselves library directors. She led the law library to become an even better resource for faculty, students, and the public, and her out-reach included a program to teach legal research to prison librarians and prisoners. She is someone who is focused on the welfare of those working with her in the law library while seeing the “big picture” for the law school and university.”

While this article is about her role as an educator, several other dimensions of her life are worth mentioning because they show a more complete picture of Professor Cervenka as a person. She has two children, Melissa and Jamie, and became a grandmother in 2014. She has completed two sky dives and looks forward to doing more! She also travels extensively for baseball having seen a game in all the major league ballparks and is now following her favored-Braves in various parks around the country. She became a Braves fan when she lived in Fort Atkinson, Iowa and the Braves were located in Milwaukee (1953-65) and stayed true to her team when they moved to Atlanta in 1966.

Even though she has lived in 10 states since graduating from GCA, Patricia has attended several reunions and thought that the 50th was great fun. She always looks for the news in each issue of ReEchoes. She appreciates the education that she received at Good Counsel and stated that “GCA gave me the opportunity to go further in education than I ever dreamed I would be able to go when I was in 8th grade. Without GCA, I would not have pursued the career I now have. I especially remember the support and advice I received from Sisters Adelia, Alix, and Dorothy.”

We need nominations for future GCA educator articles. If you know a GCA graduate who is or was an exemplary educator at any grade level, please send us an email with her name, class year, and why you think she would be an interesting example of an outstanding educator.

ReEchoes • Fall 2016 • 3

An Award Recipient Reflects... ALUMNAE AWARD NOMINATIONS

Letter from Linda Margotto Kaiser ’67For School Sisters of Notre Dame, education means helping people reach the fullness of their potential. The Good Counsel Alumnae Award demonstrates this commitment. Each year the Good Counsel Alumnae Association seeks to recognize graduates of Good Counsel who are leaders and have gone on to fulfill the educational mission of the Sisters.

As students at Good Counsel we were taught that young women could achieve their dreams and become whatever God had planned for them. We were challenged to grow spiritually, academ-ically and to be aware of the world we lived in. We were formed to be servant leaders who could make a difference in our world.

I was truly honored to receive this recognition from the Alumnae Association in 2013. I am humbled with this award because I know there are so many women who were formed the same way I was: “to go out and make a difference”. Many graduates from Good Counsel are out there making differences that need to be brought to the attention of others. Inspiration will be offered to others when we share things we have done.

I urge Good Counsel alumnae to nominate a graduate who has made a significant impact in our world. Let us honor the School Sisters of Notre Dame by showing their mission was fulfilled in the paths our lives have taken. Thank you School Sisters of Notre Dame.

Our 2016 Good Counsel AlumnaeAward Recipients

This spring, our executive board decided to give the Annual Alum-nae Award winners each a check for $100 given to the charity of their choice.

Mary Ann Siebenand Kramer ’50 requested her check be sent to the Friends of San Lucas, which was created to carry on the legacy of Fr. Greg Schaffer, by listening, responding to, and walking in solidarity with the people of San Lucas Toliman in an effort to al-leviate the suffering and dependency created by the ‘process of pov-erty’. The check was earmarked for the Women’s Shelter, which Father dreamed about for many years so the women could socialize and learn new skills. This fits in perfectly with Mary Ann’s dedica-tion to the Council of Catholic Women in the New Ulm Diocese.

Sister Helen Marie Plourde ’54 requested that her check be sent to the Women’s Interest Group (WIG) which promotes the aware-ness and prevention of human trafficking. Members of WIG are currently collaborating with other groups regarding protection of victims of trafficking during major sporting events scheduled in the Twin Cities.

GOOD COUNSELALUMNAE AWARD

NOMINATION FORMNominee’s Name: (First, Maiden, Last)

____________________________________________________

Class _____________Phone ____________________________

E-Mail ______________________________________________

Address ____________________________________________

City/State/Zip _______________________________________

How long have you known the nominee? _______________

When was your most recent contact? __________________

Please describe how the nominee has shown significant contribution to their family, church, community, chosen profession or promoting Catholic education and how they have exemplified the highest and best traditions of Good Counsel Academy. We will contact the Nominee for more detailed information. Each award winner will receive a check for $100 to be given to the charity of their choice. (Attach paper if needed.)

____________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

Nominator’s Name: (First, Maiden, Last)

____________________________________________________

Class _____________Phone ____________________________

E-Mail ______________________________________________

Address ____________________________________________

City/State/Zip _______________________________________

Note: Nominator must give her name to validate entry.(If you want your name to be kept confidential, please check here ( ).

Nominations due December 31, 2016. Mail to:

Good Counsel Alumnae AwardGCA Alumnae Office

170 Good Counsel DriveMankato, MN 56001

4 • ReEchoes • Fall 2016

Greetings, GC Graduates!For many years I heard about the wonderful support the Good Counsel Auxiliary has been giving to the Sisters who are in our health care wing at Good Counsel. This support has brought untold joy to the Sisters and especially to those sisters who were teachers or former students in the Academy. This inspired me to say “yes” to S. Mary Dominic when she asked me to consider being the new Moderator for the Auxiliary. I, Sister Marion Welter, graduated from the Good Counsel class of 1950 and have wonderful memories of those days.

In the few months that I have been directly engaged with the Auxiliary I am personally witnessing the faithfulness and devotion that so many members are giving. There are the Active members, called Martha’s, who bring the Sisters together for conversation and a treat on Friday mornings, or those who help host a birthday party. Other activities include assisting with activities directed by the Activity Directors such as a craft or bingo, or bringing a holiday favor or treat. Making a commitment to visit the Sisters also means much to the Sisters. You might be interested in knowing that currently we have over 40 Sisters in their 90’s and two that are over 100.

A message from Sister Marion Welter ’50, Good Counsel Auxiliary Moderator

Because of age or distance, some Auxiliary Members are Supportive members and contribute through financial support for the purchasing of items that will enhance the life of the Sisters. Recently, two electric recliner chairs were purchased because of this generosity. All of these special ways bring life and joy to those who ministered to others for many years.

If you are interested in being engaged as an Active or Supportive member please contact me (507-389-4200) or at 170 Good Counsel Drive, Mankato, MN 56001. God’s special blessings be with you!

A special thank you to Sister Mary Dominicfor working with the Auxiliary for over 20 years.

Fun Facts about the Good Counsel AuxiliaryThe Good Counsel Auxiliary was founded in 1986 whose purpose would be to:a) Serve and benefit the retired Sisters of the St Joseph Health Care Center which serves the Mankato Province of the School Sisters of Notre Dame, at Good Counsel, Mankato, Minnesota. b) Sponsor activities for the benefit of the Sisters.(a and b are quotes taken from the original Constitution and By-Laws of the Good Counsel Auxiliary)

GCA Alumnae group members who first met in 1986 to form the Auxiliary: Sister Midge Breiter ’55, Mary Juberian Kelly ’55, and Sister Lorraine Mosso ’44

First Officers of Auxiliary – President: Maryetta Reasner McCarty ’61, Treasurer: Rita Masberg ’49, Secretary: Mary Juberian Kelly ’55

Current Officers of Auxiliary – President: Fran Willaert, Vice President: Carole DeVries, Treasurer: Helen Dehen, Secretary: Mary Ulmen Haley, ’49

First Moderator of the Auxiliary 1986 – 1994 – Sister Midge Breiter ’55

Second Moderator of the Auxiliary 1994 – 2016 – Sister Mary Dominic Klaseus, (Loyola graduate) Sister Dominic would like to thank all the GC Alumnae for their support of the Auxiliary.

Current Moderator of the Auxiliary – Sister Marion Welter ’50

The Marthas – Women who provide Friday morning coffee and treats. They became known as ‘The Marthas’ when a sister said, “You ladies are like Martha in the gospel.”

Sister Friend – A woman who has adopted a sister in the health care unit. A Sister Friend makes a commitment to spend time with a sister and to remember her sister on special days with cards and visits.

Who Decorates Notre Dame Hall for Christmas? – Monica Hunt Oberle ’75. Monica and a group of friends, each December, decorate the entire health care unit for Christmas.

Items Purchased from Auxiliary dues for the Sisters – adaptive clothing, lap robes, 2 electric recliners, high intensity reading lamps, bed spreads, day gowns, and cushions for Notre Dame Health Care Chapel chairs. This is only a partial list.

ReEchoes • Fall 2016 • 5

Sisters age 90 - 101(During the calendar year 2016)

S. Sheila McCall ..................101 S. Miriam Saumweber ...........92S. Mary Louis Pihaly ............100 S. Mary Joyce Pietsch ...........92S. Yvonne Nohava .................99 S. Cabrini Bonglovanni ..........91S. M. Margareta Bertrand ......99 S. Francis Clare Schares .......91S. Dorothy Merth ...................99 S. Paula Young ......................91S. Carmen Madigan ..............99 S. Mary Alice Wald ................91S. M. Mercita Reinbold ..........98 S. Luella Zollar .......................91S. M. Honora Elsen ...............98 S. Therese Even .....................91S. Janice Koziolek .................97 S. Gladys Schmitz .................91S. M. Rene Lorentz ................96 S. Alene Kuhn ........................91S. Mary Elsa Bren ..................95 S. Ellene Gross ......................91S. Laura Schmitt ....................95 S. Claudette Hudalla ..............90S. Thelma Vetsch ...................93 S. Alice Zachmann.................90S. Beth Haltiner .....................93 S. Lorraine Mosso .................90S. M. Noel Ewald ...................93 S. Karen Lay ..........................90S. Maureen Murray ................92 S. Vianney Saumweber .........90S. Mary Roman Adam ...........92 S. Mary Eugene Braun ...........90S. Joan Kettler .......................92 S. Elaine Fraher .....................90S. Mary Tacheny ....................92 S. Mary Lauren Spence .........90S. Maris Stella Waselak .........92

Sisters turning 90 in 2017S. M. Emmanuel Fallenstein

S. Irene FeltzS. Mary Donald Miller

S. Mary HeckerS. Mary Magdala Winter

S. Rose Schwab

The ice cream truck was a big hit! The truck was made out of cardboard, and the sisters helped decorate it. The ‘truck’ was placed on top of a push cart and ‘driven’ by our own GCA alumna, Sister Evelyn Ulmen ’52, through the first floor halls where ice cream treats were handed out.

AuxiliAryEVENTS’

Photo Album

it was a beautiful day for an outdoor concert when the Neverly Brothers came to the Hill.

6 • ReEchoes • Fall 2016

Old Friends, New ConnectionsCome to Homecoming 2017!

Come join your classmates for Homecoming 2017. Please mark your calendar for Sunday, April 30, 2017 and plan to enjoy a day on Good Counsel Hill with former classmates and teachers. Email members of your class and make plans to get together.

The classes of 1937, 1942, 1947, 1952, 1957, 1962, 1967, 1972, 1977, and 1982 will celebrate their anniversary reunions.

Please contact the Good Counsel Alumnae Office at [email protected] or 507-389-4279 if you are willing to serve as a class representative for your anniversary class.

We are looking forward toseeing you in April!

Homecoming schedule of events:9:30 AM: Registration (Our Lady of Good Counsel Campus)

11:00 AM: Mass (Our Lady of Good Counsel Chapel)

12:15 PM: Luncheon

1:30 PM: Visiting former teachers, tours, and spending time with classmates

1963-64 FACULTyThis was taken after the habit change in 1963.

Seated L-R: Mary Joseph Hermnn ’21, Henrita Ecker, Adeila Breimhorst, Mary Aloysius Wieser

Standing L-R: Elisabeth Johnanes ’27, Mary Timothy Prokes ’48, Hermana Maurer ’26, Margareta Bertrand, Benigna Michel, Mary Jeremy Krzmarzick

Homecoming 2017Class

Representatives1947Jeanette Graves [email protected] Teton Ln Apt 107Mankato MN 56001

1952Everilde FittererThelemann507-934-3770 [email protected] E Welco DrSt Peter MN 56082

1957Jo Ann Neubert [email protected] Park AveN Mankato MN 56003

1962Nora [email protected]

I am looking for a couple of classmates to help organize our 55th class reunion. Please call or text me.

We still need class representatives for the 1967, 1972, 1977, and 1982 classes.

Come to the Hill for Homecoming 2017 to celebrate your class reunions, and leave the planning to the Alumnae Association!

A room is reserved for each anniversary class to visit and get reacquainted. Tables are reserved by class for the luncheon, and a beautiful Mass is celebrated in the Good Counsel Chapel.

If you have any questions,please contact the Alumnae Office

at [email protected] 507-389-4279.

ReEchoes • Fall 2016 • 7

Deceased Alumnae

Did you know?… that every month, a Mass is offered in the Good Counsel Chapel for the intentions of the living and deceased alumnae and their families?

… that on November 2nd of each year, GCA Alumnae that have died during the year are included in an SSND family Memorial Service in the Good Counsel Chapel?

… invitations to attend the service will be sent to the nearest survivor for whom an address can be located? That in the Service a gong is struck, the name of the deceased is proclaimed and a candle is lighted in their memory?

… that family members attending the Memorial Service are invited to join the Sisters for dinner in the Convent dining room? … yOU can help by notifying the Alumnae office when you hear of an Alumna who has died.

Sister Joanna (Marjorie) Illg, SSND

Class of 1950, Former GCA faculty, GCA Alumnae Association Treasurer, and Think Tank member

This is what God asks of you: to act justly, to lovetenderly and to walk humbly with your God.

Micah 6:8

Our dear friend died unexpectedly on Wednesday, August 31, 2016. She had been in Notre Dame Hall for several weeks recovering from a broken hip and leg.

Sister Joanna was the Treasurer of the Good Counsel Alumnae Association since 2011. Her dedication extended far beyond her stated duties as treasurer. She remained on the alumnae board long after her term expired and agreed to continue in that position until a replacement was found. Sister was also instrumental in developing the Survey and Think Tank meetings in 2015.

Sister Joanna especially enjoyed Homecoming and visiting with her classmates, her former students, and the many friends she made while at Good Counsel. She will be remembered as a kind, compassionate, and humble servant to others.

May she rest in peacewhere she is now enjoying her everlasting

Homecoming with her Savior!

If you would like to read her full obituary and find out more about this amazing woman, please log on to ssnd.org. Click on Pray With Us and select the Drop Down Box titled In Memoriam. Click on Sister Joanna Illg’s name to view her obituary.

Alumnae deaths since November 2015 are listed below.

Class Date of Death

1933 Margaret Kemp Miller 6/19/2016

1935 Cecilia Wingerberg Hanson 6/30/2016

1937 Georgia Mae Hagen 4/26/2016

1940 Sister Valine (Dolores) Saumweber 10/15/2015

1941 Sister Dolores Schmitz 2/27/2016

1941 Sister M. Eva Manney 8/4/2016

1942 Margaret Halbert Cycon 7/7/2011

1946 Martha Smolka Anderson 10/26/2015

1950 Sister Irene Komor 7/8/2016

1950 Sister Joanna Illg 8/31/2016

1951 Patricia Leuze Mandery 5/3/2016

1952 Kathleen Regan Dailey 9/30/2015

1960 Karen Gagnier Randall 2/15/2016

1960 Sister Thomasin Sergot (Betty) 3/18/2016

1961 Colleen Pearson Bianchi 4/26/2014

1961 Kathleen Ruddy Dorn 4/8/2016

1963 Marlene Tarpy Swanson 9/6/2016

1966 Karen Stuve Sargent 1/3/2016

1969 Rose Faltersack Fasnacht 6/14/2016

1970 Margaret (Peggi) Rasmussen Carpenter 4/12/2016

1975 Therese DeGrood Lord 9/12/2016

—In Memory—

8 • ReEchoes • Fall 2016

1942

1935S. Honora Elsen, Mankato – Each year I look forward to Alumnae Day because it is an opportunity to meet so many of you again whom I taught during the years 1940-1954. I want you to remember that a Holy Mass is offered every month for all Good Counsel Academy members living and deceased.

1945S. Magdala Winter, Mankato – My ministry now is Prayer and Presence. So if anyone has a special intention let me know and I will include that in a prayer I pray each day in honor of our foundress, Blessed Theresa.

1949LaVerne Dick Beaudry, Albertville, MN – My husband & I are still in our townhome. We keep busy with volunteering and many family celebrations. We have 10 grandchildren & 8 great-grandchildren. March 21 added a set of twins, Addison & William to our count of great-grandchildren. Sister Maris (Regina) Simon, Mankato – I transferred from the Province of Africa to the Central Pacific Province arriving at Good Counsel on Nov. 2, 2015, after 33 years in three different countries in Africa, Kenya, Ghana, and Nigeria. I am really enjoying seeing and being with old friends and relatives; but, yes, I do miss my Africa friends.

1950Kathryn Meurer Foreman, Panama City Beach, FL – All is great! We miss the north, but we couldn’t take the cold winters. We have a lot of great grandchildren. FaceTime and email help us stay in contact.

S. Agnes Claire Krogman, Mankato – Days pass quickly and happily in retirement here on “the Hill”. Reasonable health allows me to serve as one of the organists in the main chapel and in Notre Dame Health Care. God’s blessings are countless, and I am grateful.

Joyce Kurth Kuelbs, San Diego, CA – I am so blessed to have 3 great children & 7 grandchildren. A dear friend from China has lived here for 17 years, and last year decided to become a Catholic.

Sister Bernelle Taube, Northfield, MN – I have joined the Lutheran Foster Grandparent Program and go to school at 8:00 and return at 3:00. My services are mainly helping students keep up with their classes. It is rewarding to hear a pre-school student run up to me and say, Hi Tister Nell. I love you…. and get a hug!

Sister Paulanne (Barbara) Gruber, Mankato – Motherhouse living is wonderful. We each have a private room and bath. Our days are full. Some planned by others and some myself. I quilt and am always looking at patterns

and fabric I’ve gotten from others! My last was out of new men’s neckties!

Madonna Marschall Larsen, Hastings, MN – Things are the same – still on the farm and enjoying fairly good health!

1937

ReEchoes • Fall 2016 • 9

1951Sister Pat Frost, Mankato – I’m now back at Good Counsel, probably for good. There is always a lot going on up here and plenty of ways to be helpful. A good number of the class of ’51 are here so we gather occasionally.

Kathleen Mans Krause, Janesville, MN – We have quite a group when we gather. I have 21 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. Most are in Minnesota, but have some in North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and in Iowa.

1952Alice Plathe Vignalo, St. Paul, MN – Although I’ve enjoyed traveling (the Caribbean, Mexico) I am content living in a senior apartment in my old neighborhood. I am blessed with good health and good friends.

1953Colleen Hallett Whyte, Irvine, CA – After 53 years of living in & around Pasadena I listed & sold my Town house, retired from my practice, & moved to a retirement community closer to Ian. I believe I am making a good adjustment, although I do miss all of my old friends & familiar surroundings. My son, Ian, & his family are about 25 minutes away so I can see them quite often. All in all I am happy in my new home. Just 6 miles from the ocean, so perfect weather. I lost my husband, John, to Alzheimer’s in 1998.

Colette Meurer Hinkle, Tampa, FL – I sound like a “ReEcho.” Life is good and, of course, so is God. I cannot ask for much more.

1954Irene Stevermer Mikkalson, Burnsville, MN – Life is Good!

Jeanne Alton Uchanski, Brooklyn Park, MN – Dear Class of 1954 – As my health has diminished I’m home in assisted living. Health problems consist of diabetes 2, atrial fib & congenital heart failure. Think of all of you & our times at GCA. Am unable to attend our class reunion. Address: 6288 Louisiana Court N, Apt 212, Brooklyn Park, MN 55428.

Rita Jirik, West St Paul, MN – I will be celebrating my 60th Jubilee as an SSND with several other classmates during 2016! I am tutoring little children in the Eastside Learning Center after ‘retiring’ from Theresa living Center.

Sister Joann McMahon, Mankato – I will be celebrating my 60th Jubilee in July. This is my tenth year tutoring adults and children in our Learning Center at Good Counsel.

1955Bernadine (Bernie) Bleess Paul, Maquoketa, IA – I spend my days volunteering at Sacred Heart School, I wash the

altar linens, take communion to the sick, & quilt when I am home. It is not hard to

keep busy. I thank God for my good health so I can do these things.

1956Judith A. Rothfork, Anoka, MN – Our youngest sister invited Mary ’55, and me to share her home. It has been wonderful living with 2 of my sisters.

Donna Lenzmeier LeMaire, Sierra Vista, AZ – Re-connected

with Gerry Norby at 50th reunion and we now share her home. My

sister moved to Sierra Vista in 2014 and we are now ten minutes apart. The three

of us have fun and in many ways are the NEW 3 Muscateers!

Geraldine (Gerry) Norby, Sierra Vista, AZ – I am happy to share my home with classmate, Donna LeMaire. Have slowed down a bit, but still interested in gardening and quilting. Several times a year Rosita Meehan and I sew quilts for charity.

Sue Menshek, SSND, Mankato – My life has been filled with great blessings, continual learning, and adventure. I am back on the Hill after 43 years in South Texas. My ministry was always with the poor migrants/immigrants learning from them and finding ways to improve their quality of life.

10 • ReEchoes • Fall 2016

Margaret Loebner Olson, Mankato – Bill and I will be married 58 years May 10th. We have 3 children,: a son and 2 daughters, 3 grandsons, Dillon is a sophomore at MSU, Jake and Nick are twins; they will graduate from Mankato West High in June. We have been blessed.

Ann Schoch SSND, Billings, MT – Life has been good during these 60 years since graduation from GCA! From 35 years of teaching and administration in ND, MT, and Kenya, EA, followed by service on our Provincial Council and as secretary at our Generalate in Rome, I moved to ministry with Native Americans. After 5 years on the standing Rock Reservation in ND, I now minister to the Indian people at the three hospitals and several rehab centers in Billings, MT. I have community life with 2 Ursuline Sisters and am employed through them by Urban Indian Ministries. I am happy with 60 blessed years of work, opportunities experiences and lots of fun.

Marie Smith, SSND, Mankato – I keep busy trying to help others who may need my assistance. My main ministry is driving our sisters out of town.

Margie Cornelius Van Berkom, Cottage Grove, MN – I continue to volunteer at church as a member of the Pastoral Care and Wellness Commission at our Senior Center as a Mahjongg instructor and recently volunteered listening to

third graders read.

Catherine Fasnacht Walechka, Cleveland, MN – I am busy with 26 grandchildren, almost 2 great-grandchildren and my husband, Louis. He has Lewy’s Bodies – Parkinson disease and is at home and is awake very little. I do get him up 2 times a day to eat.

1957Rita Wollschlager SSND, Mankato – Life seems to move in circles! In 1953 I began life here on the Hill. After high school, some college and initial formation for being a SSND, I started my teaching career in 1960. I taught for 50 years in elementary classrooms, followed by 3-½ years of teaching English as a second language to immigrants in Gaylord, MN. On January 1, 2014 I was called back to GC, not to retire, but to embark on a new ministry called Hospitality Coordinator for the Campus. This ministry

offers much variety from sunrise to sunset and beyond. I claim and am grateful for good health and amazing energy on most days. Some days, I am very serious about going back to teaching, so I can have my weekends free!

Mary Eckes Fox, Sun City West, AZ – Last July, my husband, Bill, lost his battle with bile duct cancer. It will be 3 years this summer that we moved to the wonderful, serene retirement city. I plan to stay on and enjoy my new parish, friends, and all the events and activities offered here. Visitors are welcome – call me!

1958Jane Stevermer Paul, Delavan, MN – We still live on the farm – raise sheep, chickens, fruit trees, & a large garden. Love to mow lawn & enjoy refurbishing & painting statues. Do a lot of church work!

1959Donna Faiman Cerone, Aurora, CO – I still appreciate my years at Good Counsel and look back at them with great fondness. The education we received was excellent. I live in Denver, CO and have lived here for over 40 years. I own a music studio and have developed a music method where I teach a Year’s Worth of Piano Lessons in One Weekend. This is now available on DVD’s. This method of learning music has opened to doors to composing and I have been able to produce a CD called “Hearts of Peace.” With all this work and other developments, I was asked to travel to Hong Kong and teach there. I never expected to be travelling internationally in my 70’s for travel is not my choice. My life has been very rich, at times very challenging and yet very full. I am not retired and do not expect to retire until I am around 90 or so.

ReEchoes • Fall 2016 • 11

JoMarie Sampson Lang, Port Aransas, TX – Life in Texas remains good. I teach Mah Jongg classes 2-3 times yearly. Lap swimming and walking seem to be keeping me fit at 75. Volunteering at our local food pantry and community theater keep me socially involved. Greetings to ’59’ers.

1960Rita Ross Oliver, Mankato – We sold our home this year where we had lived for 47 years! It was hard leaving the only home we’d ever had, but taking care of it was getting to be too much. We now live in Mankato about a half mile away from where I grew up and we’re back in the parish we were married in and all our children were baptized in. Talk about coming full circle!

Nancy Wallin Schmidt, New Ulm, MN – I’m retired after 30 years of child care and 1-½ years as a pre-school teacher. My husband is cutting down from his full time job to part time. God Bless all of the Class of 1960.

Dolores Wanzek Portz, North Mankato – Jim and I celebrated our 50th Wedding Anniversary in May. We had a family get together in Colorado in July – the first time in 10 years all 4 kids, spouses, and 11 grandchildren were together! In March I accepted the position as Coordinator of the Good Counsel Academy Alumnae Association and keep pretty busy with that. It was great to see so many alumnae enjoy the Homecoming this spring. Thanks to a great group of officers and sisters, we pulled off a great day.

1961Sharon Zachman Monson, Eau Claire, WI – I will not be able to attend the reunion this year as it is the weekend of our 50th Wedding anniversary. Seven grandchildren keep us busy.

Linda Votca Carole, Savage, MN – I retired after 33 years as a practicing psychologist in November 2015.

Maria Latessa Drackert, Shoreview, MN – We celebrated our 50 the Wedding Anniversary in October, 2015. Six grandchildren...youngest 4 months old.

Susie Krenik Pundt, St Michael, MN – I am retired and volunteer at the Senior Center and Cancer Center. I live in a beautiful townhouse in St Michael. I have been a widow 22 years and have 5 grandchildren (including two sets of twin boys and a granddaughter). I love to travel.

Virginia LaFrance, St Peter, MN – I received a McKnight Art Grant through Prairie lakes Regional Art Center in February. Now I can combine with my printmaking at home instead of always relying on a class to work.

1962Priscilla Boettcher Devine, Edgewood, KY – Looking forward to seeing classmates in April 2017 for our 55th!

Gretchen Butzer Jewison, Saint Johns, MI – We are all living well. Looking forward to our 55th. Hope we get a good turnout.

Judie Muellerleile LaFrance, Waterville, MN – I was diagnosed with intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (bile duct cancer) and had surgery at Abbott, Mpls on Dec 28, 2015 to remove the tumor and 25% of the liver. I had 25 treatments of radiation with chemo pills. Now having IV chemo plus taking chemo pills. Would appreciate prayers. Thank you and God bless.

Sally Kuhn Fernholz, Madison, MN – I am retired from the 8 to 5 work, but busier than ever. Small towns thrive on the volunteer of retired women!

1967

12 • ReEchoes • Fall 2016

1963Joan O’Malley Thompson, Hudson, WI – I retired from teaching after 32 years, mostly in the state of Wisconsin. Presently I continue to mentor and supervise young teachers in Hudson and from the University of WI, River Falls.

1965Catherine Ourada Hewitt, Lutsen, MN – I am still adjusting to retirement. I gave up my P.T. license for Washington; but still can practice in MN & WI. My focus has been shifting from P.T. to 3 grandchildren under age 6.

1966Patricia Neary Bieber, Ely, MN – My husband and I retired to Ely in 2015. We live on the edge of the BWCA. We were married in the BWCA 25 years ago so we feel this is the perfect place for us. We love it here. It is a special place.

Diana Kuhn Rose, Apto, CA – Bright blessings to all my dear classmates! How wonderful that Jan and her team have done such a great job getting everyone connected. I am sad that I will not be with you all this weekend to celebrate our 50 years since GCA. Have a blast and take lots of photos. My heart is with you all as you gather and celebrate. Huge blessings of perfect happiness and health and well-being to you all! Peggy, of course I remember you and your fabulous good humor!

Mary Berger Chaves, LeSueur, MN – I have retired and enjoying my free time. I am working part-time at Curves, a fitness center for women, and can’t wait to see my classmates in April.

Carol Jordan Vosburgh-Gilbertson, Mankato – At this time I feel as you do, the years have passed so quickly. Richard Vosgurgh and I married and had 4 precious children, Julia, Rick, Eric, and Sarah. At a young age, the kids lost their dad to heart failure. In 2007, I married a great supportive man, Clem

Gilbertson. In 2013 I retired from a nursing career. My last job was with SSND on Good Counsel Hill. It felt like coming home – a joyous reunion. Now I look forward to seeing my classmates from 1966. God’s blessings to all of you.

Janet Murphy, Sun City, AZ – We expect a phenomenal turnout for our 50th reunion. Hope to see you all soon!

Sheila E Murphy, Minneapolis, MN – I recently moved back from Billings, MT after living there for 42 years. I now live in Minneapolis and feel it has been a good move for me; I now am around a lot of family.

Gwen Biedscheid Plaster, Maplewood, MN – Hi everyone! Anxiously waiting for our 50th reunion! I’ve lived in Maplewood, MN for 45 years. I retired from 41 years with the phone company, starting my career with Northwestern Bell, through US West, Qwest, and ending with Century Link – same company but many ‘take overs’ throughout the years. I have 4 children (2 boys and 2 girls) from 36 years old to 48 years old and 4 grandchildren. Where have the years gone? Hope to catch up with you at the reunion to hear what has happened in the past 50 years of your life!

Dianne Davis Andros, St Peter, MN – I am working half time for my husband, a psychologist, as his office manager. Together we’ve led marriage workshops, 2 per year since 2013 through Nothing Hidden Ministries out of Bethel in Redding, CA. We’ve been married 30 years and enjoy 5 grandchildren from my husband’s first marriage. Our adopted children from Haiti are in mid 20’s.

Gloria Kelly McCall, Wayzata, MN – Still flying for Sun Country Airlines as a flight attendant. Finally made Senior upper 1/3 of all our attendants….took a long time! Happy with my job and happy with the “Hometown Airline”!

1967Cynthia Becker Johannsen, Mankato – I sold my accounting business Jan. 15, 2016. Now enjoying

retirement – traveling, gardening & family. I never looked back. I don’t miss work at all. I have a lot of hobbies and friends.

ReEchoes • Fall 2016 • 13

1971Mary Warner SSND, San Jose, CA – I’m in my 12th year at San Jose’ St. University - a school of 33,000 – where I’m the Director of the English education program working with over 120 undergrad prep for teaching majors and 20-30 external candidates for the Single Subject Credential Program for English in high schools or middle schools. This is my 41st year of teaching English: 9 years in grades 7-12, 31 in colleges and universities. It’s also my 41st year of profession as a School Sister of Notre Dame.

Joan Dauffenbach Nichols, Elk River, MN – I retired in October of 2014 and have never been busier. It is a good mix of work and play with enough rest and relaxation. I enjoy spending time taking day trips with my husband, Richard, visiting the Minnesota State Parks.

1976Mary (Stanger) Romeo, Scottsdale, AZ – I am married to a wonderful man and have 2 children. I have lived in Arizona since 1981 and now reside in Scottsdale. My son served 2 tours in the Army; he is now married and lives in Anchorage, AK. My daughter is 17 and a junior in high school. She is very involved in the sport of Lacrosse. I have worked in many areas over the past 40 years. I have been in corporate finance, accounting and retail. I recently worked in a small business environment. Looking forward to seeing everyone at our 40th reunion

Karen Kelly-Hemler, Golden, CO – I have been in private practice – Internal Medicine for 25 years in Golden, CO. I have been married for 36 years to Doug Hemler MD and have 2 children – Laura who is graduating from Creighton University Law School May 2016 and Eric who is attending Rocky Vista Osteopathic Medical School.

Kathie Peetrie, Sioux City, IA – I have lived in Soux City, IA since 1989. I am a RN – run an occupational health clinic. I just completed my MS degree. I am married to Mark and have 4 adult children and 2 grands, with one on the way. I’m looking forward to our 40th reunion.

Karen Davis Plummer, Burnsville, MN – I am living in Burnsville and happily married to Kevin for 28 years. My oldest son, Nick, is in the Air Force and stationed in Alaska. Our 2 children, Jonathan, is a truck driver and Kaidee is married to Travis and she is a Domestic Violence Advocate. We have one granddaughter, Emma and a new grandbaby on the way, due in August.

Teresa Decker Vogel, Mankato – Mother of 4 children; 5 grandchildren. Still located in Mankato and love to visit the hill.

Roberta J. Schmitz, Honolulu, HI – I’ve lived in Hawaii since 1992 – been a professional librarian since 1993 (Go Sister Clarissa!). Mother of Sebastian Schmitz (21) who lives in San Diego, CA and Sierra Schmitz (19) who lives in Washington, DC. Aloha to all and have fun!

1979Brenda Decker Gould, Mankato – I am married and I have 4 children and 6 grandchildren. I love spending time with and watching my grandchildren grow. I am the manager of a school bus company and have been for 18 years. I have worked in busing for 35 years. My home is still in Mankato, where I will probably always be.

Theresa Buse Maher, Farmington, MN – I have been married 34 years and we have 3 children and 1 grandson.

14 • ReEchoes • Fall 2016

fROM THE gca PHOTO albuM

2016 Homecoming Memories

Class of 1951

Class of 1956

Class of 1939 & 1940

Class of 1971

Class of 1961

ReEchoes • Fall 2016 • 15

We Want to Hear From You…

First/Maiden/Last _____________________________________________________________________ Class ___________________

Address ____________________________________________ City/ST/Zip ______________________________________________

Please update your phone numbers

Preferred Phone _______________________________________ Is this phone # a or a ? (Please Circle)

____________________________________________

MAILBAG - Please share news about your life. Information will be printed in ReEchoes . (Attach paper if needed.)

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

HOMECOMING MEMORY - Please share a special Homecoming memory - no matter how long ago! Information will be printed in ReEchoes. (Attach paper if needed.) ____________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Please make your checks payable to: GOOD COUNSEL ALUMNAE ASSOCIATION ______________ Donation for Alumnae Coordinator ______________ $20.00 Membership/ReEchoes (July 1 - June 30) ______________ Additional contriution to support the Good Counsel Alumnae Association ______________ TOTAL amount enclosed. Thank you for your contribution!

Are you able to provide volunteer service for the Alumnae Association? What services might you be able to provide and how may we contact you? ______________________________________________________________________________________

Questions? If you have any questions regarding the ALUMNAE ASSOCIATION, please contact:

Alumnae Office at [email protected]: 507-389-4279

170 Good Counsel Drive, Mankato, MN 56001-3138

Good Counsel Auxiliary

First/Maiden/Last _____________________________________________________________________ Class ___________________

Address ____________________________________________ City/ST/Zip ______________________________________________

Please update your phone numbers

Preferred Phone _____________________________________ ________________________________________________

Please make your checks payable to: GOOD COUNSEL AUXILIARY ______________ ACTIVE MEMBERSHIP - $5.00

______________ SUPPORTIVE MEMBERSHIP - $10.00

Questions? If you have any questions regarding the AUXILIARY, please contact:

Sister Marion WelterPhone: 507-389-4200

170 Good Counsel Drive, Mankato, MN 56001-3138

16 • ReEchoes • Fall 2016

GOOD COUNSEL ALUMNAEMISSION ADVANCEMENTOUR LADY OF GOOD COUNSEL CAMPUS170 GOOD COUNSEL DRIVEMANKATO, MN 56001-3138

CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED

Very special thanks to those that made contributions to the General Fund or to the Coordinator Fund. Because of your generosity, we were able to end our fiscal year in the black, even though there were significant expenses related to the printing, the first class mailing of the survey, and the professionally facilitated Think Tank. Also, the Coordinator Fund adequately supported the salary and employer taxes for the one quarter since Dolores began her position.God bless each one who helped make this possible. Our sincere gratitude to all.

...and we’re off & running!See you at

HOMECOMING!.APRIL 30, 2017

Class of 1962

Old Friends, New Connections

We have a new Treasurer

Mary Dauffenbach Zellmer ’69Mary has agreed to once again become a member of the GCA Alumnae board. Mary served on the board from 1992-1998 as Secretary and President. We are so happy to have her back on the Board! Please be sure to stop and visit with Mary when you come to Homecoming!

BOARD MEMBERS:

Mona James Will ’73 .................................. President

Nora Keenan ’62 .................................Vice President

Mary Dauffenbach Zellmer ’69 ..................Treasurer

Dolores Wanzek Portz ’60 ......Alumnae Coordinator