2019 Fall

Alumni TOOTEROmahaSouthHighSchool
VOLUME XXVII, ISSUE 2 The Voice of the South High School Alumni Association
FALL 2019

2019 HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES

Upcoming EVENTS Five outstanding alumni will be inducted into the 2019 Omaha
South High Magnet School Hall of Fame: Robert Patterson-1954,
Virginia (Milacek) Lindquist-1958, Judy (Jensen) Tesar-1961,
Jorge Nila-1973, and Greg Gonzalez-1989. The Distinguished
Staff Award will be presented to Joyce Christensen, former
principal. The Community Award will be presented to the GI
Forum. The brunch induction will be held at Anthony’s Steakhouse
on Saturday, 9-28-19 at 9:30 a.m. All are invited to attend. See
page 10 for additional details, inductee pictures and bios.

Lottery....................................... Sept. 13
Hall of Fame ........................... Sept. 28
Packer Sports Greats .......... Oct. 23
Bowling Tournament ............ Feb. 15
500 Club Sales Start............. Mar. 1

In T his ISSUE Our 2019 Scholarship Recipients! Details on page 13.

500 Club ................................................. 5 ARE YOU IN THE CLUB?
AlumNotes ............................................ 18
Association News ................................... 4 We had 416 Packer Backers buy a “membership” in our 2019-
Bowling Tournament ............................ 16 2020 Packers 500 Club! We
Golf Tournament ..................................... 8 want to thank each of you for
Hall of Fame .......................................... 10 supporting us through this.
In Memoriam ......................................... 20 At the time this issue was
Lottery ..................................................... 9 published, winners had been
Omaha Gives ........................................... 3 drawn for March, April and May
Pasta Dinner .......................................... 4 for our 2018-2019 club and June,
President’s Message ................................ 2 July, and August for our 2019-2020 club. Those 66 winners are
Reunions, Class Challenge ...................... 14 listed on page 5. Congratulations! And good luck to all the
Scholarships .......................................... 13 members in the remaining nine months of drawings.
School Update ...................................... 12
Sports Greats .......................................... 7 COMING SOON!

We are excited to anounce a new project in front of South High
that will be breaking ground soon! It will transform the front of
South while honoring two individuals who have put their heart
and soul into the students at South. Check out the President
Letter on page 2 for more details.

Page 2 Omaha South High School ALUMNI TOOTER Page 3

From our PRESIDENT

Hi everyone! As I write this update, I We had a VERY successful pasta alumni association, several area
can’t help but realize how fast time dinner at Cascio’s this past March. foundations and private donors.
So much so, that we depleted their Do you all remember the dirt path
is flying. I’ve been on pasta supply and we ran out of that everyone used to cross on the
the Alumni Board for spumoni. Thanks to EVERYONE who north side of the main entrance?
seven years. Seems volunteered their time and to those Coming in Spring 2020, the area
like yesterday when I who attended. We are already to the north of the front entrance
volunteered to help. planning next year’s event and hope will be landscaped. There will be a
So many fundraisers to see you there! stamped cement path, benches,
Carole Safley and great times have All of our events were great this and new trees and plants. The
happened. year. We not only had a blast with highlight of the project will be a
I’ve said good-bye to several former our bowling, golf and car show, huge bronze bull statue.
board members and hello to several but we raised a lot of funds to help This project is in honor of Dave
more. But one specific “good-bye” support the alumni association and and the late Carol Van Metre for
is really tough. That “good-bye” is maintain our scholarship program their incredible support with fund
for Mary (Renner) Urkevich-1963. and teacher and staff funds. raising and love of South High and
Mary and I started around the Now for some exciting news! In South Omaha. The bronze bull will
same time. She was in the office conjunction with Tim Holland-1977 be created by well-known sculptor
when I came and met with Dick of Holland Basham Architects John Lajba (South O raised/Ryan
Gulizia-1961. She guided me and Joe Smejkal of Smejkal High grad). John’s work includes
through my first golf tournament and Construction, the Alumni “The Road to Omaha” sculpture at
was a fountain of information on Association is moving forward with TD Ameritrade Park, Omaha Police
everything and everyone associated a “beautification” project for the Memorial and other sculptures
with the Alumni Association. As we front of South. All project funding throughout the U.S. Keep on the
all know, time doesn’t stand still has been secured courtesy of the lookout as this project progresses.
and life can turn on a dime. Due
to health-related reasons, Mary THANK YOU MARY!
has had to step down from her job WE WILL MISS YOU!
at the Alumni Office. I love Mary,
everyone loves Mary. She will be
sorely missed for her South Omaha
knowledge (she knows everyone!)
and her no-nonsense, tell-it-like-it-is
personality. Mary, take care of your
health. We’ll see you often (I hope).
We will keep in touch.

2019-20 CALENDAR OF EVENTS

SEPTEMBER JANUARY

8-30 Fall TOOTER mailed 1-15 Alumni Board Meeting | 6:00 p.m. Alumni Office
9-1 Packer Car Show 2-15
9-6 Homecoming Game (pg. 23) 3-1 FEBRUARY
9-13 Lottery begins (pg. 9) 3-1
9-28 Hall of Fame Induction Brunch (pg. 10) TBD Bowling Tournament (pg. 16)
4-15
OCTOBER 4-30 MARCH

10-16 Alumni Board Meeting | 6:00 p.m. Alumni Office Spring TOOTER mailed
10-23 Packer Sports Greats (pg. 7) Packers 500 Club (pg. 5) | Membership sales start

DECEMBER APRIL

12-12 Lottery winners drawn Pasta Dinner
Alumni Board Meeting | 6:00 p.m. Alumni Office
Packers 500 Club | Membership sales end

Page 2 Omaha South High School ALUMNI ASSOCIATION Page 3

Omaha GIVES!

The SHS Alumni Association had a great 2019 Omaha Gives!
campaign. This year we were very excited to announce
that an incredibly generous SHS class of 1959 alum,
who wished to remain anonymous, pledged to match all
donations we received for Omaha Gives, dollar for dollar, up
to $2,000! During the online 24-hour charity challenge, 134
Packer Backers raised over $9,600. Thanks to those
who participated and donated to this awesome day! You
made this our best year yet! Your support ensures SHSAA
will be able to continue on with our mission to support
alumni, the school and the South Omaha community. Our
Omaha Gives donors are listed below - both those who gave
online through the Omaha Gives website and those who sent
their donation to the Alumni Office. Thank you to all!

OUR 2019 DONORS ONLINE DONORS Marilyn Gillen-1964 OFFLINE DONORS
Gabriel Gutierrez-2009
Duncan Murphy-1970 Richard Hampton-1950 John Krayneski-1961
Rudy Tesar-1960 Janet Katz-1961 Pauline-1962 & Ken Lundgren
Gregory Chapp-1975 Laurie Kleymann-1980 Martha Mayer-1952
Jane Altman-1976 Tamara Morris-1988 Shirley Anderson-1952
Sandra (Schwer) Bazant-1967 Leon Nelson-1964 Lois Backes-1953
Cathy Hoban-1975 Lisa Neu-Ramirez Robert Flakus -1963
Larry Kramolisch-1973 Marilyn Opocensky-1960 Gloria Ried-1952
Sherri Macht-1978 Emil Paskac-1966 John Szarad-1955
Bev-1964 & Vic Riha-1961 Michael Polak-1975 Paul Sopinski-1960
Judy-1974 & Ron Storm-1978 William Smith-1974 Walter Chandler-1967
James Hristakos-1966 Sarah Stratton Harry Andersen-1955
Robert Barta-1952 Jeraldine & Emil Swanson-1951 Peggy Sorensen-1961
Carol Brantz-1967 Ronald, Carol, & Mike Richard Benak-1957
Gabriel Chavez-1974 Urbach-1976 John Bergman-1971
Larry Cotton-1966 Beverly Collinson-1951 Mary Ann Hines-1952
Karen Helmberger-1995 Bettie Foral-1969 Larry Kozeny-1957
Lori Hunter-1966 Garry Gernandt-1964 Emilia Saphore-1962
Connie Johnson-1967 Hilda Gurwell-1966 Ernest Stump-1965
Judi Koubsky-1961 Gary Hayes-1955 Stephen Woods-1957
Diana Kowalski-1972 Vincent Huerta-2019 Jackie Casper-1961
Melissa Leonard-1967 Mitch Emery-1966
Ruth Picking-1963 Mary Josjor-1965 Garnett Gouge-1966
Donald Preister-1965 Sharon Kalvelage-1961 Edward Sebron-1958
Cinda Price-1971 Jen Kracher James Steele-1955
Carl Schroeder-1961 Ruth Spencer Petit-1972 Philip Taylor-1966
Nancy Shelton-1963 Kathy Salcedo-1963 Howard Tefft-1951
Dolores Terwey-1979 David Sklenar-1971 Joe Sternad-1959
Shirley Votrobek-1971 Lynn Spielvogel-1974 Carol Biggs-1966
Randy Yager-1978 Lisa Todd-1978 Jackie Dower-1961
Gary Young-1961 Tony-1969 & Roni Huerta Bertha Dunkak-1959
James Jirak-1987 Kristina Palmisano-2007 Donna Krambeck-1951
Patricia Bogatz-1979 Carissa Stowe-SHS teacher Elizabeth Nath-1954
Julie-1966 & Ed Diehm-1965 Jennifer Benson-1999 Dean-1963 & Candy Rezac-1963
Paul-1961 & Sharon Kracher Mardee Collingham-1963 Sharene Waltermire-1963
Denise Muck-1974 Lynne Goemaat-1979 Mardelle Wolf-1951
Carole Safley-1976 Gene Nielsen-1954
Alice Sullivan-1982 Diane Olson-1973
Ann Allen-1963 Janice Podoll-1979
Sally Arant-1971 Anita Roth-1957
Nancy Baker-1976 Vanessa Urbach-2005
Amy Cherko-2001 AND 13 ANONYMOUS DONORS who gave OVER $1300!
Lenli Corbett-2001

Page 4 Omaha South High School ALUMNI TOOTER Page 3

Association NEWS
OODLES OF NOODLES!
THANK YOU!
Our 24th annual Spaghetti, now Packer Pasta Dinner,
took place on Sunday, March 31, 2019 at Cascio’s VOLUNTEERS / PRIZE DONORS
Steak House. Thanks to everyone who joined us for our
first year at a new location - Cascio’s Steak House was *Event Committee
a fabulous host! Besides a delicious meal, attendees
had the opportunity to play split the pot and win raffle *Linda Filipowicz (Chair) Margo Hathaway
prizes. *Carole Safley Tony Huerta
We know that the success of our event would not *Bev & Vic Riha Gary Kastrick
be possible without our many volunteers. We were *Evelyn & Dean Winther Sharon & Paul Kracher
fortunate to have numerous SHS student volunteers *Jen Kracher John Krayneski
again this year. Thank you to the JROTC and National *Julie Diehm Bob Lubsen
Honor Society for working hard to make sure everyone *Judy Storm Pauline & Ken Lundgren
had a great pasta dinner experience. *Mary Urkevich Nellie MacCallum
We’d also like to thank Alfie and his team at Cascio’s *Candy Rezac Mitzi O’Donnell
for the huge part they played in making this event run Larry & Carmella Brooks Joanne & Pat Ragle
as smoothly as it did. Jackie Casper Scott Ragle
We would like to extend our thanks to everyone who Carol Cleaver Ruth Roedel
made our first Pasta Dinner such a great success! Barb Crum Kathy Salcedo
Carol Daley Kelly Sanko
Helene Elsasser Zach Sanko
Mitch Emery Mary Stanek
Laura Galas-Armas Jodi Winther
Stephanie Gates

If youpwleoarskeedacocredpotnoautredapitoelmogsy,aansdwyoeullransaomuer tihsannoktsl.isted,

BUSINESS DONORS

Orsi’s Bakery
Cascio’s Steak House

Page 2 Omaha South High School ALUMNI ASSOCIATION Page 5

AND THE WINNERS ARE...

Congratulations to the 2018-19 Packers
500 Club winners for March, April, and
May (top) and to the 2019-2020 winners
for June, July, and August (bottom)!
Upcoming winners will be listed online at
www.OmahaSouthAlumni.com/500Club.
Please note, due to having under 500
members, prize amounts have been adjusted in accordance with Nebraska State Gaming Commission rules
and regulations. There were 301 members in the 2018-2019 club and 416 in the 2019-2020 club.
Are you interested in becoming a member in next year’s club? Sales for the 2020-2021 Packers 500 Club will
start on March 1, 2020. Look for details in the 2020 Spring Alumni Tooter.

MARCH 2019 APRIL 2019 MAY 2019

JUNE 2019 JULY 2019 AUGUST 2019

Page 6 Omaha South High School ALUMNI TOOTER Page 3

Association NEWS cont.

SUPPORT SHS WHILE YOU SHOP!

Did you know SHSAA is registered with TAGG, Amazon
Smile, and Baker’s? With those three options you can
support Omaha South High Alumni Association while you
run errands, shop, and eat out in Omaha - at no cost to you!
TAGG is a free app you can use at hundreds of businesses
that will donate to SHS Alumni Assocation. All you need to
do is submit a photo of your receipt through the TAGG app.
TAGG has over 250 participating businesses in Omaha and
Lincoln that range from food and drinks to health and beauty to retail and services.
If you use Amazon you can support the SHS Alumni Association by using Amazon
Smile. A percentage of all purchases made through Amazon Smile will go to a non-
profit of your choice (we hope it’s SHSAA) every time you shop!
We are also registered with Baker’s Community Rewards program! SHSAA will
receive funds every time you shop for groceries at Baker’s and you use your
registered Baker’s Plus Shopper’s card.
Full details on how to use TAGG, Amazon Smile, and Baker’s Community Rewards
can be found online at www.OmahaSouthAlumni.com/WhileYouShop.

Page 2 Omaha South High School ALUMNI ASSOCIATION Page 7

PACKER SPORTS GREATS

Congratulations to the outstanding
alumni who will be inducted into the
Packer Sports Greats Athletic Hall of
Fame in October!
This year’s individual inductees
are Joe Berenis-1963, Bob
Janousek-1979, Jim Nekola-1983,
Rich Ruffcorn-1984, Mike
Valla-1983, and Darrell Walton-1974
Other inductees include the 1965
Boys Tennis team, Coach Cecil
Stutzman, Dominic “Chip” Nila-1965
for the Contributor Award and Robert
Lohr-1961 for the Merit Award.
Inductees will be highlighted in the
next Alumni TOOTER. Banquet details
to the right. Tickets are available now
at the SHS Alumni Office.

CSOHNSTAAACT
Alumni Office
5082 S. 107th Street
Omaha, NE 68127
(402) 738-9493

[email protected]
Hours: M-F 8:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Alumni Office Staff
Tony Huerta

TOOTER Designer / Webmaster
Jen Kracher

Website
www.OmahaSouthAlumni.com

Facebook
SouthHighAlumniAssociation

Twitter
@OmaSouthAlumni

SHS Representatives
SHS School: (402) 557-3600

Mr. Ruben Cano, Principal
Julie Johnson, Assistant Principal
Dennis Mitchell, Assistant Principal

Page 8 Omaha South High School ALUMNI TOOTER Page 3

Association NEWS cont.
GOLF TOURNAMENT

Another successful Packer Golf Classic was held Sunday, July 28, 2019 at Eagle Hills Golf Course. This year 33
teams took over the golf course on a day with perfect golfing weather. Foursomes were made up of alumni from
every decade between the 1960s and 2010s, along with family, friends, and SHS staff. After golfing, the players
were treated to a tasty lunch catered by Tim’s Wild West BBQ followed by raffle and team prize awards. A big
thank you to the golfers, hole sponsors, raffle prize donors and volunteers for supporting SHSAA through this
fun event. Money raised will go towards special teacher requests and student scholarships. Mark your calendars
for next year’s tournament! It will be held on Sunday, July 26, 2020 at Eagle Hills. If you are interested in
sponsoring a hole or donating a prize for next year’s tournament please let us know!

Above: Event volunteers (listed in order below).

Above (l-r): The Urban’s by Paul’s memorial sign; big raffle THANK YOU!
winners: Jake McConnell-2002 won the $250 Southwest gift-
card and luggage. Joe Keenan won the golf bag & clubs prize. EVENT VOLUNTEERS
Below: SHS team: Sam Bojanski-2005, Adam Byer, Brittany
Gunn, and Dennis Mitchell, Joe Bober-1969 teeing off, and Mary Stanek, Tony Huerta, Kelly Mulligan, Jen Kracher, Carrie
Ron Kmiecik-1975 staying hydrated. Contreras, Julie Diehm, Judy Storm and Carole Safley (Chair). Not
pictured: Paul & Sharon Kracher
More pictures available online!
SPONSORS
www.OmahaSouthAlumni.com
AAA Building Components, Dunning for Sheriff, F.O.P. Lodge #2,
Games People Play, Kelly Urban, Midwest Tires, Overhead Door &
Window, Quality Door & Trim, Rudy Tesar, Variety Printing, Wichita
Heating & Cooling

PRIZE DONORS

Carole Safley, John Krayneski, Julie/Ed Diehm, Jen Kracher, Judy
Storm, Evelyn Winther, SHS Alumni Association

Page 2 Omaha South High School ALUMNI ASSOCIATION Page 9

FLIGHT 1 - 1st Place (15 under) FLIGHT 1 - 2nd Place (15 under)

Mark Gamblin-1978, Harold Hoffman, Mark Sinnett, Rick Kappius Brandon Alstad, Brad Schrader, Katie Simmons, Ricky Simmons,
FLIGHT 2 - 1st Place (9 under) FLIGHT 2 - 2nd Place (9 under)

Jake McConnell-2002, Garry Schwalm-1974, Corey Schwalm-2002, Jerry Fleming, Dave Felberg, Dave Axon, Tim Welch
Mario Juarez-2003 FLIGHT 3 - 2nd Place (4 under)

FLIGHT 3 - 1st Place (4 under)

Linda (Boro) Urban-1979, Jerry Urban-1980, Kelly Urban-1983, Victor Baez-1994, Theresa Baez, Christy (Janda) Voycheske-1994
Colin Urban and Justin Voycheske-1995

ANNUAL LOTTERY

Ticket sales for our 2019 Lottery will start September 13th.
You do not want to miss your chance to win big cash prizes
while supporting a great cause!
Please contact the SHS Alumni Office at 402-738-9493 or
[email protected] if you would like additional
tickets.
Our 2018 winners:
$3000 Prize: Charles Severin-1972
$1000 Prize (2 winners): Ken McPherson-1963

Virginia (Calta) Bremken-1967
$500 Prize (3 winners): JoAnn Cordell

Guy Urban-1970
Dave Pankowski-1965
Cwhwewc.komouathmasooruetphaaslutmwnini.nceorms /olnoltitneerya. t

Thank you for supporting us during this fundraiser!

Page 10 Omaha South High School ALUMNI TOOTER Page 3

Hall of FAME

ROBERT PATTERSON-1954 VIRGINIA (MILACEK) LINDQUIST-1958

After serving 4 years in the US Air Force, After graduation, Virginia worked at Offutt
Robert attended UNO. Upon graduating he AFB. When married, she and her husband
joined Big Brothers as a Coordinator. moved to a farm in Wausa. She also
His office at Big Brothers was located worked for Norbert Tiemann’s campaign
near the Family Service Community for Governor of Nebraska. Virginia worked
Development Unit. Family Service offered on the steering committee for Wausa’s
him a job to manage the Multi-Service Centennial celebration and wrote a column
Center. His job was to coordinate services in the Wausa Gazette called “Sip and Chat.”
to Logan-Fontenelle Public Housing tenants and to organize She served as the director of the Lied Lincoln Township
them to advocate for more and better services. Shortly Library for 35 years. When Wausa outgrew their library,
after running this service, he received a scholarship from Virginia wrote a grant seeking funding for a new one.
the CDC to attend UNL as a graduate She received $250,000 from the Lied
student. Robert graduated in 1973 with Foundation and with additional local
a Master’s in social work. support and without tax dollars; a new
While working with the Wesley House library was built in 2014. To furnish it,
Community Center, Robert developed she was able to raise enough money
the Charles Drew Health Center. He from a cookbook fundraiser. She also
was hired as President and CEO when spearheaded the old library’s renovation.
it opened in 1983. He remained in that Virginia received honors from the Sioux
position until retiring in 1998. City, IA Chamber of Commerce and
Robert is an active member of Sharon Seventh Day GFWC Fine Arts State Award. She has
Adventist Church where he serves as a Senior Elder. taught Sunday school, was church superintendent, and
also youth group leader.

JUDY (JENSEN) TESAR-1961 JORGE NILA-1973

Judy graduated from Omaha University While at South, Jorge was an original
(now UNO) with a Bachelors in Elementary member of the musical group, “TRAVIS”,
Education. Judy has been a member of the started by band instructor, Red Travis. Jorge
Alpha Xi Delta Sorority for four decades and played tenor saxophone, flute and handled
was named “Woman of the Year” by the the lead vocals. The band played clubs,
Omaha Alumni Panhellenic Association. homecomings, proms and concerts all over
Judy received the Evelyn Schellak the Midwest. In 1978, Jorge moved to NYC
Sisterhood Award in 1967 and 1980. and performed there for 15 years, playing
Judy spent 28 years in pre-kindergarten program at St. with Paul Simon, Eddie Palmierie’s Latin Jazz Band, and was
Paul United Methodist, where she was the director for 26 part of the B-52’s “The Love Shack” smash hit video.
years. Awarded an Outstanding Early Childhood Award in After returning to Omaha in the 1990’s, Jorge played every
1995, she holds a PTA lifetime membership and served on major festival in Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas, Colorado, and
the UNO Board of Directors. Texas; as well as at clubs and concerts. Most recently, he
Judy was also a member in the Sokol recorded a new CD “Tenor Time” which
Camp Association. She is the Women’s peaked at #12 on the Jazz Week Charts.
Auxiliary treasurer. Judy volunteers for It remains in the top 50 for 12 weeks and
the American Heart Association and the counting.
American Cancer Association. Jorge was inducted into the Nebraska
She is a founding member of the SHS Music Hall of Fame this past summer.
Alumni Association and has served as Along with Mike Vlassakis-1975, Frank
an active member of the Alumni Board Madrigal-1976, and Dan Curran-1980,
since its inception, helping with almost all alumni events. Jorge is involved in the Travis band revival.

KNOW SOMEONE SHS HALL OF FAME WORTHY?

Nominate them now by visiting www.OmahaSouthAlumni.com.
Click on Best of the Best and then Hall of Fame to start the nomination process!

Page 2 Omaha South High School ALUMNI ASSOCIATION Page 11

GREG GONZALEZ-1989 COMMUNITY PARTNER

After graduating from UNO in 1996, Our Community Partner Award is going to the GI Forum.
Greg received his Master’s in Public The GI Forum’s mission is to help veterans and their
Administration in 2008. He graduated from families, provide scholarships to college and trade schools,
the FBI National Academy in 2012. and help with youth programs.
Greg started in law enforcement with the They hosted several dinners
Douglas County Sheriff Office in 1993. honoring SHS state champion
He joined OPD in 1995 and worked in the teams. They also allow events
Gang, Narcotics, Homicide, and Traffic Units, and meetings pro-bono at their
Criminal Investigations and Uniform Patrol. Between 2002 pavilion for local groups.
and 2012, he was promoted multiple They have given over half-a-million
times. He is currently the Deputy Chief in dollars in scholarships and have
charge of the Executive Services Bureau. funded music programs and equipment at various schools
He has been involved with many local and organizations.
organizations: National Latino Peace Their most recent project was the Miguel Keith Hernandez
Officers Association, PACE, Project Extra veteran’s honor. A statue in his honor was recently unveiled
Mile, Underage Drinking Initiative, Victory at the Kroc Center.
Youth Boxing Club, Midwest Mentoring The Forum relies heavily on annual fundraisers to support
Partnership, and Niles Paul Foundation. all of their endeavors; which is a never-ending job, staffed
Greg has been honored with many awards by many volunteers and club members.
commending his work.

JOYCE CHRISTENSEN

The Distinguished Staff Award is being given to Joyce Christensen. Mrs. Christensen was South’s Principal
from 1983 to 1993. She was principal during the school’s west expansion, and was instrumental in
seeing that construction did not disrupt day-to-day activities.
She was a board member of the South O Neighborhood Association, South O Merchants
Association, United Catholic Social Services, Wesley House, and Opera Omaha. She is
also involved in Lauritzen Gardens, Henry Doorly Zoo, Omaha Chamber of Commerce,
UNL Chancellor’s Advisory Committee, Metro Reading Council, Omaha Community
Playhouse, Assistance League of Omaha, and Veteran’s Outdoor Adventures.
Mrs. Christensen’s awarded honors include: JFK Center for Performing Arts School Administrator’s
Award; Administrator of the Year by NE Council for Exceptional Children; South Omaha Community Hall
of Fame recipient; UNO Distinguished Alumni Award; Administrator of the Year by Arts Education of NE;
Excellence in Education by the GI Forum; and Chicano Awareness Center Award for Support of the Hispanic Community.

Inductee bios condensed for space; full bios can be found online at
www.OmahaSouthAlumni.com.

Page 12 Omaha South High School ALUMNI TOOTER Page 3

School UPDATE
This past year SHS students and staff again achieved South’s Character in
in academics, performing arts, athletics, and in Action (CIA) service
reaching out to their community. learning group spent four
In February, the Packers beat Central days at the Pine Ridge
to bring the Class A State boys Reservation in South
basketball title back to South. Not Dakota. This is the 9th
long after, Coach Bruce Chubick was CIA group to visit the
named the Lincoln Journal Star’s reservation. This year students cleaned, painted, and
boys co-coach of the year. distributed the clothes, books, and games they have
At the OPS JROTC Spring Formal, Eloy Gonzalez- been collecting specifically for this trip.

Reynoso-2019 was named “Top Suleyma Garcia Mendez-2019 was one of
Honor Brigade Commander”. He was eleven area youth to be given the Salvation
selected because of his grades, school Army’s D.J’s Hero Award. The $10,000
accomplishments, community service, and scholarship is given to high school seniors
an interview by Creighton ROTC members. who have overcome adversity and made an
This is the third year in a row a SHS student impact on their school and community.
has earned this award. In April, the PackHouse Café, South’s first student
Business teacher Erin Sackett was named a CHI run coffee shop, opened for business. Led by Mrs.
Health “Top Teacher”. The award recognizes teachers Wagner’s entrepreneurship class, it gives the students
who are changing the lives of their students. real world experience with customer service and
creating business strategies. The cafe partnered with
A select group of Advanced Placement students from the ACP program to make deliveries!
Language and Composition students
traveled to New York City in April. While The Packers defeated
there, students visited many museums Creighton Prep to take home
to study the purpose of argument the Class A boys soccer State
presented through an artistic lens. Championship! After a tough
Of the four best lifter awards given 100 minutes of action the
for the 2019 State Powerlifting game was ultimately decided
Championship, SHS took home by penalty kicks. Shortly
three. Pictured: Mia Garcia-2021, after, Coach Joe Maass was named the OW-H’s boys
best lifter girls lightweight, Coach coach of the year.
Busteed, Vince Huerta-2019, best In June the Ambassadors show choir was invited to
lifter boys heavyweight, and Elsa Ramirez-2019, best perform at the UNL “Nebraska Show Choir Camp”. It
lifter girls heavyweight. is a huge honor to be invited to perform and they did a
South’s “Louder Than a Bomb” poetry great job performing for over 400 campers!
slam team beat four other teams of After attending a UNO Nebraska Civic
poets in the finals to bring the trophy Leadership Program, students traveled to
to South for the first time! Washington D.C. to meet with their elected
Mr. Lonnie Moore was awarded “High School Educator officials, and explore careers in politics.
of the Year” by the Nebraska College Prep Academy.
Go Pack!!

WELCOME BACK! SHS Alumni!
The SHSAA welcomed SHS teachers and staff back to school If you would
with a Pancake Man breakfast for the second year in a row. be interested
So thankful to have such great teachers and staff to work with. in subscribing
We hope you have a great school year! to current issues of the SHS
Thanks to our breakfast Tooter (you are reading the SHS
helpers: Carole Safley, Alumni Tooter) you are now able
Julie Diehm, Judy Storm, to do so. For a low subscription
Jen Kracher, Evelyn fee of $10 per school year. Please
Winther, Judy Tesar, and contact the Alumni Office if you’d
Helene Elsasser. like to sign up!

Page 2 Omaha South High School ALUMNI ASSOCIATION Page 13

Scholarship RECIPIENTS
The SHS Alumni Association would like to extend congratulations to the 30 seniors who were awarded $30,000 in SHSAA
scholarships this year. Collectively, the 2019 senior class was awarded over $10 million dollars in scholarships! Thank
you to all our supporters, including those who funded the thirteen endowed scholarships, as this would not be possible
without your donations!

SHS Alumni Association Scholarships* SHSAA Endowed Scholarships

($1,000 each) ($1,000 unless noted)

Judith (Henggeler) Fern (Miyeno) Lily Ann (Dvorak) Carla (Pedersen)
Spohr-1959 Watanabe -1941 Ogden-1941 Zarkowski-1967

Anahi Betsy Leticia Gisselle Jessica Suleyma Maya Alejandra Vanessa
Gonzalez Sandoval Coronado Cervantes Melgoza Garcia-Mendez Northcutt Varela Murrillo-Guerro

Shane Classes of Margie (Krakowski) Alberto
Kielion-1999 1956 & 1958 Speck-1940 ($1,500 each) Rodriguez

Jessica Katherine Ammelia Jailene Juana CLIotorzpteeelzs- Moises Carmina Maria Jonathan
Schmailzl Bachez Mendoza- Tavizon- Mora- Aguero-Rios Rangel- Elizarraga- Rodriguez-
Alvidrez Valdovinos Pacheco Hernandez
Lopez Rosas

Nancy Lt. Gen. Leo J. Sheila (Little) Tom Dickey- 1960 Decade
Mudra-1962 Dulacki-1936 Cain-1953 1999 SHSAA Dance

Shyla Emily Adriana Laura Tania
Sarahi- Gonzalez- Alvarado- Perez- Neri-
Alvarado Villagomez Rodriguez
Garcia Silva

“* These scholarships are all event-funded, including 4 Pasta Dinner, 4 Golf, Monzeratt Htee Klee Karla Vincent Xcaret
Valentin Paw Ayala Huerta Castelan
2 Car Show, 2 Bowling, 2 500 Club, and 1 Lottery.
“I am writing this to say thank you for choosing me as a recipient of one of your many scholarships. For the
next four years I will be attending Barnard College in New York City. I am beyond nervous and excited to

embark on this journey. Again, thank you, I hope to work more with the A-lMumnairAiassEolciziaatriroangian Htheerfnuatunrdee.z”

“Thank you so much! You’ve truly made a difference in my life. I’m so excited to become a UNO Maverick this fall.”
-Jessica Schmailzl

“I want to thank you so very much for the SHSAA Scholarship award. I am so very excited for my journey. It is a blessing
and a great opportunity you all give to young students like me. To let you know my final college choice, it is Clarkson

College where I will study nursing. Your scholarship award will helpcomlleegbeu.yTbhoaonkksyaonud!”m-aAtedriraialsntao Abelvsaurcacdeos-sSfuillvina

“I am sincerely honored to have been selected as the recipient of the SHSAA Scholarship. I will begin my college journey
this summer at Metropolitan Community College and am very grateful to have the financial assistance t-hJis euspsiccoamMingelfgaollz.aI
recently enrolled for classes and can’t wait to begin.”

“I sacmhovoelrysugpraptleiefsulfoforrUtNheO.STchhaotlayrosuhispotmhautcyhoufohr ahveelpainwgarmdeedwmithe.mPyleeadsueckantioownatlhjaotuIrninetye.n” d-tEo musileytGhisonSzcahloelza-rGshaiprcoina

Page 14 Omaha South High School ALUMNI TOOTER Page 3

Reunion TIME
2019 2020

1954lllllllllllllllllll lllllllllllllllllll 1965lllllllllllllllllll lllllllllllllllllll

A 65 year reunion is planned for 10-19-19. A casual no- A 55 year reunion is planned for 6-20-20 at the DAV.
host gathering will be held at Horseman’s Park (63rd More info will be in the Spring Tooter. Contact: Carol
& Q) at 11:00 a.m. Food will be available for purchase. Daley at [email protected].
Come join us and reminisce about our times at South.
There will be no planning committee or mailing. 1970lllllllllllllllllll lllllllllllllllllll

Contact: Janet (Mirasky) Haney at [email protected] A 50 year reunion is planned for 8-1-20 at Horseman’s
Park. More information will be in the spring Tooter.
or 402-397-3671 or Marlene (Wesolowski) Brandt at Contacts: Patty (Harrahill) Svajgl at [email protected] or
[email protected] or 402-331-6035.
Mary (Samples) Rezac at [email protected].
1955-Monthlyllllllllllll
lllllllllllll

Classmates meet at 12:30 p.m. the 2nd Tuesday of each Class years up for a 2020 reunion:
month at the GI Forum (20th and N St.) to connect with
fellow Packers. All 1955 alumni are invited to join. 1945 (75), 1950 (70), 1955 (65), 1960 (60),
Reservations not required; the group usually leaves by 1965 (55), 1970 (50), 1975 (45), 1980 (40),
3 p.m. Contact: Karlene “K.T.” Deja at 402-733-6303. 1985 (35), 1990 (30), 1995 (25), 2000 (20),

1994lllllllllllllllllll lllllllllllllllllll 2005 (15), 2010 (10), and 2015 (5).
Let us know of any plans and we will spread
A 25 year reunion will be held 9-6-19. Classmates will
first meet at GI Forum for dinner/drinks at 5:45 p.m., the word!

then head to Collin Stadium for South’s Homecoming
game at 7:00 p.m. Following the game they will move to
Donohue’s Pub around 10:00 p.m. Costs for all events PICTURE BACKDROP
are on your own. Contact: Christy (Janda) Voycheske at
[email protected]. The Alumni Office now
has a 8’x10’ Packer photo
1999lllllllllllllllllll lllllllllllllllllll backdrop. If your reunion
committee would like
A 20 year reunion will be held Homecoming weekend. to inquire about using it
On Friday night (9-6-19) classmates will attend South’s please contact the Alumni
football game at Collin Stadium. On Saturday morning Office.
they will do a tour of South at 10:00 a.m. Saturday
evening classmates will gather from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 AVAILABLE NOW!
p.m. at Paddy McGown’s Pub & Grill (4503 Center St.).
Contact: John Lopez at [email protected].

Provide Class List (mailing / emails / deaths)

TIME FOR A Promote in TOOTER / Facebook / Website
REUNION? Non-Profit Mailing Rate for Reunion Communication

LET US HELP! If you are in charge of your class reunion, let us know! Visit
www.OmahaSouthAlumni.com and click on Reunions. Fill out the
Reunion Planning Form and we will get you a class list, update your

class page, promote print and digital media and answer any questions.

Page 2 Omaha South High School ALUMNI ASSOCIATION Page 15

TOP OF THE PACK: MID-YEAR UPDATE

Our first Class Reunion
challenge year is halfway
over. Any class having a major
reunion (increment of 5 or 10
years) during 2019 is part of
the challenge.
The class with the highest
percentage of class challenge
donors who made a gift to
SHSAA during the year of a
major reunion will achieve
Top of the Pack honors and
bragging rights for the year that
they indeed are the best class!
Through mid year the Class
of 1959 has the highest
percentage of all eligible
challenge donors. THERE
IS STILL TIME! Rally your
classmates to send in their
donation to the Alumni Association to help push your class to the Top of the Pack! We will announce 2019’s Top of
the Pack class winner in the spring 2020 edition of the Alumni Tooter.

Class of 1959 Reunion

by Judith Spohr
This past July, 140 classmates celebrated their 60th reunion. It was an amazing evening of fun and reconnecting

with classmates and friends. A huge thank you to the reunion committee…Kathy (Coco) and Don Wieczorek,
Beverly (Maliszewski) Sladovnik, Mary Ann Grace, Sharon (Klepper) Schneidewind, Julie (Hron) O’Doherty and

Judith (Strnad) Brown.

1 CLASS REUNION
9 PICTURES
8
4 Take a group picture of
oaftfAticeLenL@dyaoonmucraeccholaaamnssdos. muetmahtaaelisul miitnntoi.
The Class of 1984 celebrated their 35 year reunion over two evenings in July.
mWedeiawiallnsdhpauret iitt ionnthsoecniaelxt
Alumni TOOTER!

PArhleuoumtnoNisooontfsesswmsilpal albleceeragadrlodlouewpdisntoga.t

Page 16 Omaha South High School ALUMNI TOOTER Page 3

Register online at www.Omaha- BOWLING REGISTRATION Name: _____________________________________________________
SouthAlumni.com/Bowling or Address: ___________________________________________________
complete this form and return with City, State & Zip: _______________________ Phone: ______________
check to: Email: ________________________________ South Grad? Yes No
SHS Alumni Association If Yes, what year? ________ Maiden Name: ______________________
5082 S. 107th Street Please include names of your team members (please list grad years/
Omaha, NE 68127 maiden names for SHS grads):
*$20/bowler early-bird registration (1) _________________________ (3) __________________________
through January 31; $25 after* (2) _________________________ (4) __________________________
Call the Alumni Office 402-738-
9493 with questions.

Space is limited. Register now!

Page 2 Omaha South High School ALUMNI ASSOCIATION Page 17

We Need Your HELP!

SHS Alumni Association continues to need alumni support in order to meet our goals of connecting alumni to each other,
to current South students and to the South Omaha community. That is why we are inviting you to make a gift of any size
to the SHSAA. We deeply value alumni support as we realize you have many choices for your financial support. We hope
your South experience remains close to your heart, fills you with pride, and that you value the experience enough to
want it to continue for future generations.
There is a reason your mailbox and inbox are full of donation requests this time of year – that is because we are entering
the “season of giving” which runs from fall through December. We hope that we can count on your support of the SHS
Alumni Association.

When? Gifts must be made by year-end, December 31, 2019 to

be claimed as a charitable deduction for 2019. If you want to be
part of the global initiative known as “Giving Tuesday,” go online and
make your gift on Tuesday, December 3, 2019.

WAYS YOU CAN HELP

Donate to our General Fund: Gifts can be made in honor or in
memory of classmates, former teachers, friends or loved ones.
Purchase a Brick in the Memorial Flagpole: An engraved brick
in the SHS Memorial Flagpole is the perfect way to honor a fellow
classmate, friend, teacher, special mentor or coach. Visit the SHSAA
website or fill out the form on this page.
Start an Endowed Scholarship: By endowing a scholarship, you
can create a lasting legacy, see the immediate benefits of your gift,
and also receive an income tax deduction.
Organize a Reunion Gift: Reunions are a perfect time to
revive Packer Pride. Some classes take up a special collection
during reunion activities while others donate any dollars left over
from the reunion to the SHSAA.

How? It’s easy to do.

BY MAIL: Use the envelope provided in this Alumni Tooter to
make a gift by check to the SHSAA.
ONLINE: Go online to www.OmahaSouthAlumni.com and make
a gift by using a credit card on PayPal’s secure site.

Contact us with any questions you may have!

Page 18 Omaha South High School ALUMNI TOOTER Page 3

AlumNOTES
1 9 3 0 sllllllll
llllllll 1956-Marlene (Latimer) Majeski and 50th wedding anniversary. They were
husband Robert celebrated their 61st married at Assumption Church on
1936-Leo Dulacki Lt. General USMC anniversary on 6-28-19. February 5, 1969.
generously used his estate to ensure 1957-Richard J. Duponcheel and wife 1966-Harvey Smith and wife Doreen
that his endowed scholarships Karolyn celebrated their 50th wedding celebrated their 50th wedding
continue for over two decades after anniversary. After they were married anniversary. They were married in
his passing. they lived for 25 years in Guam and Lynch, NE. The couple lived in Omaha
worked in the school system. Recently before retiring in South Dakota. There
1 9 4 0 sllllllll llllllll a former student from 1970 came are blessed with two children and
from the island to visit them where three grandchildren.
1941-James Jirsak and wife Arline they now live in Arnold, NE.
celebrated 70 years of marriage on 1958-Roger Tallman and Laurolee
6-18-19 with their family. (Chadonich) Tallman-1958 recently
celebrated their 58th anniversary
1 9 5 0 sllllllll llllllll with a three week tour of China. They
walked on the Great Wall and did a
1953-­ John Stella cruise on the Yangtze River to see The 1970’s horn rock band Travis
was the lucky winner the Three Gorges Dam. They walked is getting back together! Members
of a hand­crafted across Tianamen Square, had a close are Frank Madrigal-1976, Jorge
Husker quilt. The quilt up viewing of the Terracotta Army, Nila-1973, Emmanuel Mike
was donated by Carol and saw Ling-Ling the famous panda. Vlassakis-1974, Dan Curran-1980,
(Brandt) Daley-1965. On the last phase of their journey Steve Thornburg, Joel Edwards, Ben
The quilt drawing they were delayed in Shanghai until Curran. Follow them on Facebook for
took place at the typhoon damage was cleared allowing info about upcoming shows.
SHSAA Pasta Dinner. them to venture on to Hong Kong.
What a great trip and memory!
1956-Joe Meschede Jr. and Margie 1967-Barb (Riha) Widhalm and Russ
(Bealer)-1956, celebrated their 60th 1 9 6 0 sllllllll celebrated their 50th anniversary on
anniversary on 3-7-19. May 3, 2019. They are retired and
living in Rogerville, MO.
1956 Harry Gavin and wife Marlene llllllll
(Anderson)-1957 recently celebrated
60 years of marriage. 1960-Frank Vondra is proud to
announce his granddaughter, Lillian
Vondra, has graduated from Shorter 1 9 7 0 sllllllll llllllll
University with academic and athletic
1959 classmates having a great time honors. 1975-David McDowell, a SHS
at their 60 year reunion. 1963-Lon Bernth and wife Jean 2002 Hall of Fame inductee, was
celebrated their 50th wedding recently honored with the Class
anniversary. The couple celebrated of 1934 Distinguished Professor
July 6, 2019 with dinner and dancing Award from Georgia Tech University.
hosted by their children. McDowell earned a doctoral degree
1966-Janice (Hotovec) and Rich in mechanical engineering from
Bungham-1966 celebrated their the University of Illinois at Urbana-
Champaign. The award recognizes

WHAT’S NEW Graduate from college? Get promoted?
WITH YOU? Recently get married? Have a baby?
Cross something off your bucket list? Retire?
TELL US!
Visit www.OmahaSouthAlumni.com to share what’s happening with your
We’d love to hear about it! life! Click on Submit AlumNote to share photos and exciting life events.
Click on Update My Info to notify us of changes in your name or contact
information.

Page 2 Omaha South High School ALUMNI ASSOCIATION Page 19

McDowell’s outstanding achievement International Affairs Fellowship
in teaching, research and service. For Program this summer.
three and a half decades McDowell
has done ground-breaking research 2016-Noah Fant was
and has produced more than 500 selected in the first round
published papers. He is proudest of of the NFL Draft. He was
advising or co-advising more than 30 chosen at pick #20 by
Masters students and 51 Doctoral the Denver Broncos.
students through degree completion. 2019-Vincent Huerta received a
full page OW-H article on his power-
2 0 1 0 sllllllll llllllll lifting highlights. Coached by Bryan
Busteed, Vincent broke three longtime
2016-Alejandra Escobar-Serrano, a standing records. These records were
first generation political science and a 700 lb. squat, 615 lb. deadlift, with
a total poundage record of 1,700 lbs.
business major at UNO Vincent plans to continue powerlifting
was named as a finalist while he studies quantum physics at
for the public service- Creighton University.
related Harry S. Truman
Scholarship. llllll SHS Staff llllll
She has mentored students at South
with the goal of getting more people of Roy Long was a woodworking teacher
color into higher education. at South from 1952 to 1973. Roy
She is in the UNO Honors Program, CBA passed away on 4-17-19.
Scholars Academy, Beta Gamma Sigma Cara Riggs, a former South High
Honor Society and completed a three- principal, is again fighting cancer and
month internship in D.C., as part of the needs the prayers of Pack Nation!
Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute. Supporters can follow her journey and
Alejandra will be at Princeton post encouraging messsages on her
University’s Public Policy and Facebook page, Cara’s CUREsaders.

The crew at GI Forum are excited to be honored with the HOF Community Award.

Page 20 Omaha South High School ALUMNI TOOTER Page 3

In MEMORIAM
1930sllllllllllllllllll
llllllllllllllllll 1947-Delphine (Hooker) Glup of Plattsmouth, NE, 7-7-19.
1947-Alyce Joan (Mangel) Spoto of Council Bluffs, IA,
1932-Helen (Homic) Remer of Westland, MI. 11-30-18.
1937-Michael G. Furlich of South Sioux City, NE, 11-14-18. 1947-Louis R. Matcha of Omaha, 5-7-19.
1937-Zelma Purit of Omaha, 7-19-19. 1947-Catherine (Vacek) Stander of Omaha, 5-9-19.
1937-Evelyn (Schwee) Benson of Omaha, 2-16-19. 1948-Teresa (Abboud) Mills of Omaha, 2-22-19.
1939-Eleanor J. “Kelly” (Merwald) Cavlovic of Omaha, 1948-Dorothy (Gliva) Schultz of Omaha, 6-17-19.
5-11-19. 1948-Shirlee (Jensen) Collier of Omaha, 5-9-19.
1948-Lucile (McKeran) Radden of Omaha, 2-12-
1940sllllllllllllllllll llllllllllllllllll 19. Survived by husband George-1948 and children
George-1973 and Lori (Radden) Thomas-1979.
1940-Lois (Jensen) Sorensen of Omaha, 6-3-19. 1948-Betty (Stevens) Honcik of Omaha, 3-13-19.
1940-Robert J. Riha of Omaha, 6-23-19. 1948-Leonard Wyskowski of Omaha, 5-15-19. Survived
1941-Louis T. “Pat” Jodlowski of Omaha, 6-25-19. by wife Wilma (Slizoski)-1953.
1941-Clarabelle (Krapp) Keller of Grants Pass, OR, 6-28-19. 1948-Leonard E. Yelinek of Omaha, 5-28-19.
1941-John W. Orchard of Omaha, 7-5-19. 1949-Bertha (Gomez) Porter of Omaha, 6-20-19.
1941-Dorothy Patach of Omaha, 2-16-19. 1949-Stanley Mac of Omaha, 3-31-19. Survived by wife
1942-Joseph Duda of Omaha, 7-12-19. Constance (Sporic)-1979.
1942-Margaret (Kidder) Kosalka of Omaha, 2-16-19. 1949-John L. Petroski of Omaha, 3-25-19. Survived by
Survived by brother Eugene-1950. wife Betty (Vala)-1952, children Steve-1976 and Terri
1942-Robert Laushman of Lawrence, KS, 10-27-17. (Petroski) Clark-1978.
1942-Anton Pokorny of Omaha, 3-26-19. Survived by
wife Helen (Sekera)-1949 and daughter-in-law, Ginny 1950sllllllllllllllllll llllllllllllllllll
(Coufal)-1970.
1942-John Revers of Omaha, 3-31-19. 1950-Eli Reyes Contreras of Omaha, 6-12-19.
1943-Thomas J. Smith of Omaha, 4-28-19. Survived by children Linda-1976, Susan-1980, Laura
1943-Boris J. Visty of Omaha, 3-21-19. Hebard-1985, Michael-1975 and John-1979.
1944-John J. Kurtz of Omaha, 3-21-19. 1950-Walter F. Fisher of Omaha, 4-29-19.
1944- Helen M. (Liska) Wichita of Omaha, 5-9-19. 1950-Fred Holmquist of Boise, ID, 6-1-19.
1945-Charles “Chas” E. Hines of Lincoln, NE, 5-29-19. 1950-Robert E. Jourdan of Omaha, 7-30-19.
1945-Paul H. Linstrom of Anaheim, CA. 1950-Sophia Riza of Omaha, 10-20-18.
1945-Mary Barbara (Middleton) Kubat of Omaha, 2-21-19. 1950-Geraldine (Smith ) Mettlen of Omaha, 2-13-19.
1946-Dolores (Braniff) Krajicek of Omaha, 6-25-19. 1950-Thomas A. Wolfe of Omaha, 7-18-19.
1946-Thomas Danahy of Omaha, 6-25-19. Survived by 1951-Irma A. (Alston) Sayles of Omaha, 3-24-19.
son Patrick-1976. Survived by daughter Sonja-1977.
1946-Jean M. (Janousek) O’Connor of Omaha, 5-6-19. 1951-Norbert F. Bojanski of Omaha, 6-5-19.
1946-Gwendolyn (Kuehner) Marshall of Omaha, 4-28-19. 1951-Frank J. Drelicharz of Sun City, AZ, 4-5-19.
Survived by husband Gaylord-1944. Survived by wife Mary Ann (Faust)-1955.
1946-Cecelia J. (Micek) Ciurej of Omaha, 2-14-19. 1951-John M. Golka of Lincoln, NE, 6-22-19.
1947-Alphonso Benjamin Sr. of Omaha, 2-2-19. 1951-Dorothy (Haas) Jacobsen of Omaha, 3-31-19.
1947-Clofford T. Currin of Omaha, 4-29-19. 1951-Mary A. (Lukowski) Kinsella of Omaha, 5-1-19.
1947-John R. Distefano of Spokane, WA, 6-3-19. Survived 1951-John Poulicek of Omaha, 7-15-19.
by brother David-1959. 1952-Patricia (Bauder) Muckey of Omaha, 2-1-19.
1947-June A. (Ferguson) Elder of Omaha, 2-21-19. 1952-Patrick Calabro of Omaha, 6-18-19.
1947-Helen J. Grgich of Omaha, 3-9-19. 1952-Donald L. Ehrlich of Omaha, 7-18-19.

Page 2 Omaha South High School ALUMNI ASSOCIATION Page 21

1952-Jackie (Jensen) Novak of Omaha, 2-8-19. 1960sllllllllllllllllll llllllllllllllllll

1952-Louis Palmer of Omaha, 6-14-19. 1960-Sharene (Barrington) Felten of Omaha, 6-2-19.
1952-Margaret (Talmon) Reed of Omaha, 5-17-19. 1960-Charles W. “Bill” Becher of Muskogee, OK, 6-19-19.
1953-Donald Barna of Omaha, 7-22-19. 1960-John J. Cepuran of Omaha, 3-23-19. Survived by
1953-Marvin Busch of Omaha, 9-22-18. wife Sandra (Tague)-1962.

1953-Doyle Carter of Arlington, TX, 12-24-18. 1960-Rudolph M. “Rudy” Dufek of Omaha, 6-11-19.

1953-Janice (Erb) Stephens of Hemet CA, 5-30-19. Survived by brother Dave-1967.
Survived by sister Shirley Shiery-1957.
1960-Ron Osborne of Omaha, 5-12-18.
1953-Herman Vampola of Omaha, 6-9-19.
1960-Joe Prokupek of Omaha, 10-2018.
1954-James S. Circo of Omaha, 5-18-19.
1960-Ray F. Slizewski of Omaha, 2-25-19.
1954-Frank Contreras of Omaha, 5-27-19.
1961-John F. McDermott of Omaha, 3-6-19.
1954-Delores E. Jourdan of Omaha, 1-31-19.
1961-Nancy (Kapple) Smith of Omaha, 7-31-19.
1955-Gloria (Brant) Sandstedt of Denver, CO, 4-26-19
1961-Artis I. (St. Clair) Baker of Grand Prairie, TX, 2-26-19.
1955-Margaret (Graham) C. Kalina of Omaha, 7-11-19. 1962-Judy (Callahan) Novak of Omaha, 3-7-19. Survived
1955-Stanley E. Kuklinski of by husband Rich-1962.
Omaha, 2-6-19.
1955-Donald McCormick of Memorial Prayer 1962-Melvin Cerny of Omaha,
Omaha, 5-7-19. 4-9-19.
1962-Walter Hason of Omaha,
1955-Jeannie (Novy) Birdsall of 5-1-19.
Omaha, 5-8-19. Life gives us brief moments with another, 1962- Diane (Smithberg)
1955-Lyle Richards of Omaha, but sometimes in those brief moments Winkler of Omaha, 5-26-19.

7-2-19. we get memories that last a lifetime. 1963-Douglas Dale Benson of

1956-Delores (Boryca) Moore of Omaha. 2-17-19. Survived by
Omaha, 7-2-19. son Chris-1991.

1956-Frank Gaeta of Omaha, 6-3-19. 1963-Sandra (Duda) Johnson of Bellevue, NE, 5-13-19.

1956-Gary Vyborny of Omaha, 4-29-19. 1963-Dennis J. Engelke of Omaha, 3-9-19. Survived by
1956-Beverly Wood of Omaha, 4-14-19. children Chad-1993, Renae (Engelke) Rogers-1987 and
1957-William “Bill” Cuningham of Olathe, KS, 3-28-19. Jennifer (Engelke) Gross-1986.
1957-Frank Petska of Spencer, IA, 10-17-18. 1963-Stan Maliszewski of Tucson, AZ, 7-21-19.
1957-Joseph John Velasquez of Omaha, 2-25-19. 1963-Jerry Thompson of Mansfield TX. Survived by sister
1957-Vern Wilson of Omaha, 6-19-19. Sandra Woitaszewski-1965.
1958-Melvin E. Balaban of Omaha, 4-18-19. 1963-William L. Zeleny of Gretna, NE, 2-20-19.
1958-Joseph Anthony Balsano Jr. of Oklahoma City, OK, 1964-Rosemary D. (Groves) Stotts of Louisville, NE, 4-17-19.
2-3-19. Survived by brother Ralph-1960. 1964-Sharon (Hunter) K. Parker of Omaha, 6-5-19.
1958-Sharon (Crum) Carpenter of Omaha, 5-2-19. Survived by husband Dale-1964, siblings Harold
Survived by children Pamela Granay-1989, Paul Jr.-1985 “Buddy”-1965 and Cynthia Brock-1970.
and Phil-1991. 1964-Beverly (Raven) Arellano of Omaha, 3-31-19.
1959-Wilma (Dobbs) Vincent of Omaha, 4-18-19. 1964-Mary (Sempeck) Warner of Omaha, 3-19-19.
Survived by son David-1981. 1964-Gary J. Sondyj of Omaha, 5-22-19.
1959-Fred H. Kleffman of Omaha, 4-28-17. 1965-Gary Lee Hirsh of Omaha, 2-23-19.
1959-Lyle L. Latimer of Omaha, 6-25-19. Survived by 1965-Ron Leadholm of Aprpka, FL, 12-17-17. Survived by
siblings Marlene Majeski-1956, Bob-1951, Jerry-1960 wife Kathy (Sudyka)-1965.
and Terry-1962. 1965-Gary J. Masek of Omaha, 7-9-19. Survived by
1959-Gail (Taff) Lichtenberg of Omaha, 4-1-19. brother John-1969.

Page 22 Omaha South High School ALUMNI TOOTER Page 3

In MEMORIAM cont.
1965-Carlene Miller of Omaha, 1-31-19. 1974-Don Wysocki of Omaha, 4-6-19. Survived by brother
1965-Candace L. Wise of Omaha, 2-24-19. Dave-1984.
1966-Ralph “Jim” Diggins of Omaha, 7-12-19. Survived 1975-Virginia Ann (Brey) Keenan of Omaha. Survived by
by son Francis-1986. brother Patrick-1969 and sister-in-law Debra-1971.
1966-Patricia (Nichol) Beatty of Omaha, 2-13-19. 1975-John Roger Buzzello of Omaha, 6-17-19.
1966-James “Jim” Umshler of Omaha, 1-27-18. 1975-Gary Nabity of Omaha, 3-26-19.
1966-Roger C. Whitney of Kansas City, MO, 7-13-19. 1975-Jerry Price of Omaha, 5-23-19.
1967-Tom Blomenkamp of Omaha, 3-31-19. Survived by 1975-John H. Stoll of Omaha, 5-24-19. Survived by siblings
wife Judy (Podwinski)-1968. Mike-1970 and Kathy Turco-1973.
1967-Dale V. Brumels of Omaha, 2-27-19. 1975-Randy Swanger of Omaha, 2-20-19.
1967-Frank A. Dizonno of Omaha, 3-5-19. Survived by 1975-James Tasich of Omaha, 10-26-18.
siblings John-1969 and Rose Rathbun-1972. 1976-Daniel “Duke” Spencer of Frisco, TX, 6-20-19.
1967-Judy (Fast) Smith of Omaha, 3-16-19. Survived by siblings Tom-1971, Rick-1974, Christine
1967-William “Bill” NaPier of Lawrence, KS, 6-20-19. Williams-1971, Ruth Petit-1972 and Terri-1973.
Survived by brother Alan-1969. 1978-Laureen Stevens of Las Vegas, NV, 5-15-19. Survived
1967-Constance S. (Ross) Lowe of Merritt Island, FL, by mother Roberta-1958, siblings Rich-1980, Ron-1984,
9-14-18. Kathleen McCandless-1971 and Jeanine Buresh-1981.
1967-Frank Tangeman of Gilbert AZ, 1-4-18. 1979-Josephine (Lopez) Worden of Omaha, 7-25-19.
1968-Ken Lucas of Omaha, 3-10-17. Survived by mother Teresa (Zendejas) Lopez-1955 and
1968-Patricia (Schmidt) Kohler of Omaha, 7-1-19. brother Philip-1983.
Survived by husband Fred-1961, children Daniel-1990,
Kimberly-1984 and Kellie-1988 and Donald-1965. 1980sllllllllllllllllll llllllllllllllllll
1968-Dennis Swanson of Omaha, 3-2-19. Survived
by husband Richard Cerny-1964 and sister Barbara 1980-Carol J. (Mruk) Murillo of Omaha, 5-20-19. Survived
(Swanson) Cerny-1964. by sister Lynn Hess-1975.
1969-Judy Mikno of Omaha, 7-19-18. Survived by sister 1982-Kevin Vance of Omaha, 10-19-18.
Barbara Mikno-1966. 1983-Michael J. Kudrna of Omaha, 2-17-19.
1969-Robert Sousa of Omaha, 5-5-19. 1984-Eliseo “Alex” Perea of Omaha, 5-6-19. Survived by
wife Mary (Castro)-1984 and daughter Alexis-2013.
1970sllllllllllllllllll llllllllllllllllll 1985-Anthony Tolbert of Omaha, 3-14-19.
1986-Reenita Shannon of Omaha, 6-15-19.
1970-James Louis Briggs of Omaha, 3-26-19. 1988-James E. Williams of Omaha, 6-14-19.
1970-James E. Clines of Omaha, 7-10-19. 1989-Jody M (Loftus) Regan of Omaha, 6-1-19. Survived
1970-Steve Johnson of Omaha, 7-22-19. by husband Dale-1989, father Dennis Loftus-1964, and
1970-Sandra L. (Perry) Knotts of Council Bluffs, IA, 3-7-19. brothers Dennis Jr.-1986 and Brian-1987.
1970-Charles “Chuck” Svajgl of Omaha, 4-1-19. Survived
by wife Patty (Harrahill)-1970. 1990sllllllllllllllllll llllllllllllllllll
1971-George Dahir (Dare) of Las Vegas, NV, 6-9-19.
1971-Marty DeLoa of Omaha, 6-25-19. Survived by siblings 1990-Rodney L. Davis of Omaha, 6-17-19.
Richard-1972 and Laurie Reyes-1973. 1992-Lisa R. McClur of Conroe, TX, 7-26-19.
1971-James D. Hunt of Omaha, 7-21-19. Survived by sisters
Pat Kielion-1969 and Karma Huss-1976. 2000sllllllllllllllllll llllllllllllllllll
1972-Michael W. Chess of Omaha, 1-30-19. Survived by
brother Richard-1970. 2004-Robert J. Herechski of Omaha, 3-30-19.
1972-James L. Sparano of Omaha, 3-26-19. Survived by
sister Cheryl (Sparano) Goodrich-1968. 2010sllllllllllllllllll llllllllllllllllll
1973-William “Bill” Woitaszewski of Omaha, 10-3-18.
Survived by siblings Linda Winters-1968 and Tom-1970. 2014-Lydia Rose Grabenschroer of Omaha, 5-18-19.
1974-Donald Pettit Jr. of Omaha, 4-15-19.
1974-John E. Prososki of Omaha, 5-14-19. SHS Teacherlllllllllllll lllllllllllll

Roy Long of Omaha, 4-17-19. Roy taught shop at South.

Page 2 Omaha South High School ALUMNI ASSOCIATION Page 23

MEMORIALS GIVEN 1959-Ted Riha given by Terry Vogt.
1960-Nancy (Muldowney) Patrick given by Frank
mMeemmoorryiaolsf twheerefoglliovwenintgoaSlHumSAnAi: in honor and Vondra-1960.
1960-Donald Underwood given by Frank Vondra.
1929-James Strnad given by daughter Judith 1961-Betty (Lannon) Clapp given by Jan Pane-1961.
Brown-1959. 1961-Subby Nigro given by Jan Pane.
1930-Marie (Barta) Strnad given by daughter Judith Brown. 1964-Mary (Sempek) Warner given by Shari
1940-Robert Riha given by wife Frances (Rydl)-1945. Moseley-1964.
1941-Fern Wantanabe given by Judi (Clark)-1961 and 1970-Ruth S. (Kantanavicius) Watkins given by Mike
Denny Koubsky-1961. Kantanavicius-1967.
1941-Fern Wantanabe given by Paul Kracher-1961. 1972-Gary Swirczek given by John Christen-1972.
1941-Frederick Shwalm given by Jean Schwalm-1945.
1948-Lucile (McKernan) Radden given by Frances ALUMNI FRIENDS AND RELATIVES
(Magdziaz) Lindner-1948.
1948-Leonard Eugene Wyskowski given by Ed-1965 and Lou Costanzo given by Nicholas Costanzo-1959.
Julie (Riha) Diehm-1966. Michelle Diehm given by Vic and Bev Riha.
1949-Robert Lee Bauerkemper given by sisters Phyllis Michelle Diehm given by Denny and Judi Koubsky.
(Bauerkemper) Baustian-1946 and Eula (Bauerkemper) Nadine Saklar given by Denny and Judi Koubsky.
Nilius-1954. Helen Wichita given by Vic and Bev Riha.
1949-Barbara (Fisher) Schmitz given by Marshall
Petring-1948.
1949-Norma (Haymaker) Barrington given by Phyllis
Kowal-1952.
1951-Jack Husebo given by Dwight Anderson-1951.
1958-Dale Thomas given by Mary Jane Thomas-1958.
1959-Mary Lucile Radden given by Elsie McKernan-1951.
1959-Ted Riha given by Barbara (Riha) Widhalm-1967.
1959-Ted Riha given by Vic-1961 and Bev (Forman) Riha-
1964.

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