2016 Fall

Alumni TOOTEROmahaSouthHighSchool
VOLUME XXV, ISSUE 2 The Voice of the South High School Alumni Association
FALL 2016

ALUMNI SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS

Upcoming EVENTS The SHS Alumni Association would like to extend
congratulations to the 32 seniors who were
Homecoming Tailgate.......... Sept. 23 awarded $33,000 in SHSAA scholarships in
Hall of Fame............................ Sept. 24 2016. Each of them demonstrated superior
Packer Sports Greats........... Oct. 26 academic achievement, exemplary school and
Lottery....................................... Sept. 9 community service, and dedication to continuing
Casino Night............................ Feb. 25 their education. Collectively, the class of 2016 was
Bowling Tournament............. Mar. 25 awarded over $15 million dollars in scholarships!
Thank you to our supporters, as this would not be SHS Honor Night on May 4.
In T his ISSUE possible without your donations! See page 13 for recipient details.

Association News .................................... 2 2016 HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES
AlumNotes ............................................ 16
Casino Night ........................................... 7 Five outstanding alumni will be inducted into the 2016 Omaha South High
Golf Tournament .................................... 4 Magnet School Hall of Fame: 1943-Jack Hetterich, 1963-Lon Bernth,
Hall of Fame Inductees ............................ 8 1963-Ron Bernth, 1978-Rev. Tom Bauwens and 1991-Rick Frawley.
Homecoming ......................................... 11 The Distinguished Teacher Award will be presented to Tom Jodlowski, SHS
In Memoriam ........................................ 20 teacher from 1986 to 2011. The Community Award will be presented to
Lottery ................................................... 5 Boys Town-South Omaha and accepted by Nick Juliano, Senior Director of
PackerSportsGreats.............................. 10 Community Impact. A special Lifetime Music Ambassador Award honoring
Reunions ............................................... 14 South High School’s “Music Man,” Mr. Roland Hinrichs, will be accepted
Scholarships ......................................... 13 by his wife, Janet Hinrichs. The celebration will be held at the Livestock
School Update ...................................... 12 Exchange Building at a 10 a.m. brunch on Saturday 9-24-16. All are invited
Spaghetti Dinner .................................... 3 to attend. See page 8 for more details, inductee pictures and bios.
60s Decades Dance .............................. 15
ARE YOU GETTING OUR EMAILS?

The SHS Alumni Association’s newest endeavor is our incorporation of
email blasts, appropriately named, Alumni eNews. If we have your email

address in our database, then you
have already been the recipient of the
Spring TOOTER via email. We will also
be using emails to send out reminders
of upcoming events, as well as to keep you up-to-date on what’s happening
with the association, the school, the students/teachers and the South
Omaha community. These emails will fill the void of information between
the bi-yearly paper edition of the Alumni TOOTER. If you would rather receive
your TOOTER electronically instead of by US Post, contact the SHS Alumni
Office with your email address or update your contact info online at
www.OmahaSouthAlumni.com/update-contact-info.

Page 2 Omaha South High School ALUMNI TOOTER Page 3

Association NEWS
BOARD UPDATE by Carole Safley

It is with great appreciation and Alumni TOOTER from the very start, co-chairs for our annual Bowling
yet sadness we announce that publishing 49 issues! Her dedication Tournament; which I believe they will
Judi Koubsky-1961 has chosen and hours spent on the preparation of continue to chair as we move forward.
each edition has been incredible and Judi, we thank you for your years
to step down will be hard to match. Judi has also of service with the SHS Alumni
from the alumni chaired the Hall of Fame Committee Association and to the faculty and
association. Judi for many years. She will remain on students at South who have been
has decided to go the selection committee, but will touched by all you’ve done.
back to college to step down as chair after this year’s
pursue her degree celebration. SHSAA BOARD
in business. While Besides these very important OF DIRECTORS
we are excited activities, Judi served as the Executive
for Judi’s journey Board Secretary and as the Alumni
towards her goal, we are sad that she Board’s Recording Secretary for all of
will not be an active member of the our meetings. She and her husband,
SHS Alumni Association. Denny-1961, have also served as
Judi has been the editor of the

WHAT’S NEW?

With Judi’s resignation, the Board nominated and voted Lisa Rushlau-1987
(top photo) as our new Secretary. Lisa will assume Judi’s duties as the
Executive Board Secretary, as well as the BOD Recording
Secretary at our meetings. We would also like to welcome
our newest alumni board member, Linda (Gorup)
Filipowicz-1976 (bottom). Linda was voted onto the board
during our April meeting. Linda is already working on
several events and is going to be a wonderful addition to the
board.
And so, here it is, the first edition of the Alumni TOOTER
with a new editing staff. As you may have noticed, we have
mixed things up a bit! With Judi Koubsky’s resignation,
we have turned the Alumni TOOTER into a group endeavor.
Several of the SHSAA members and staff have been busy
writing and editing the TOOTER and we have turned the
layout and design over to Jen Kracher. Jen has been our
marketing and IT guru for several years now. She has been
instrumental in designing and maintaining our website,
creating our mass emails, and keeping us up-to-date with
all electronic means of correspondence. Jen was more than
happy to help out with the newsletter too.
If you have any information (AlumNotes, deaths, reunions) you would like
submit for upcoming Alumni TOOTERs, please send your information to the SHS
Alumni Office by calling 402-738-9493 or emailing office@omahasouthalumni.
com. All submitted pieces are subject to be reviewed/approved/edited for
grammar and length by the TOOTER staff.

Page 2 Omaha South High School ALUMNI TOOTER Page 3

SPAGHETTI DINNER THANK YOU!

Our 21st annual Spaghetti Dinner was held Saturday, April EVENT VOLUNTEERS / PRIZE DONORS
23 at Gateway Elementary School. The evening was full
of fun activities. We had 50 gift baskets that were raffled Committee John Krayneski
off, along with a huge handmade Nebraska quilt (donated Jackie Dower (Chair) Bob Lubsen
by Carol Daley-1965). This year we added a Meat Wheel Candy & Dean Rezac Pauline & Ken Lundgren
raffle to the festivities. Attendees purchased chances to (Co-chairs) Nellie MacCallum
win a meat prize. We even threw in an (extremely popular) Evelyn & Dean Winther Mitzi O’Donnell
Napoleon torte from the Lithuanian Bakery! Bev & Vic Riha Pat Priebe
Adding 200 additional parking spaces in a lower lot, along Ann Allen Jeanie Porterfield
with a shuttle driven by Swim Coach Todd LeMense, made Diane Atkins Joanne & Pat Ragle
parking this year less of a hassle. Jr. R.O.T.C. members Shirley Benak Al Rezac
looked sharp while directing traffic in the upper lot. Cookie Brazda Vince Riha
Thanks to ALL the volunteers who helped, with a special Jackie Casper Ruth Roedel
shout-out to all the students and faculty who came out Barb Crum Lisa Rushlau
and lent a hand. That includes Principal Cano, staff, Ed & Julie Diehm Carole Safley
teachers, counselors, coaches, and all the students from Mitch Emery Mary Salcedo
Jr. R.O.T.C., cheer team, swimming team, tennis team, Stephanie Gates Zach Sanko
National Honor Society, Luvabulls and culinary class. Tom Margo & Brian Hathaway Nancy Shelton
Dickey ended up with dishpan hands from cleaning all the Joe Herek Judy Storm
pots and pans. (We owe you some hand lotion!) The event Janice Ishii Judy & Rudy Tesar
would not have been as successful without all of them. Kay Ivey Kellie Tuller
These students continue to be outstanding ambassadors Gary Kastrick Veronica Uhe
for South High School and the Alumni Association. Scott Knudsen Mary & Jerry Urkevich
The Gateway Elementary team again hit it out of the Tom Koziol Sharene Waltermire
park! Many thanks to Principal Terry Burton and his Judi Koubsky Karen Wilson
staff. Including kitchen cooks Linda Williams and LaRon Jen Kracher Jodi Winther
Thomas, and Engineer Pat Brey. Paul & Sharon Kracher Wayne & Chris Woodard
We absolutely could not have a successful Spaghetti
Dinner without our volunteer workers, students, donations
and the support from our South High community. Thank
you!

If youpwleoarskeedacocredpotnoautredapitoelmogsy,aansdwyoeullransaomuer tihsannoktsl.isted,

Page 4 Omaha South High School ALUMNI TOOTER Page 3

Association NEWS cont.
GOLF TOURNAMENT

Another successful Packer Greats Golf Outing was held Sunday, July 17 at Eagle Hills Golf Course.
This year 22 teams participated. The teams were filled with alumni from the 60’s, 70’s, 80’s, 90’s
and 2010’s, along with family, friends, current students and SHS’s golf coach. After golfing, the
players were treated to a steak dinner followed by raffle and team prize awards. A big thank you
to the golfers, our hole sponsors, raffle prize donors and volunteers for supporting SHSAA through
this fun event. All money raised will go towards teacher special requests and scholarships. Mark
your calendars for next year’s tournament! It will be held on Sunday, July 30, 2017 at Eagle Hills.
If you are interested in sponsoring a hole or donating a prize for next year’s tournament
please let us know! Mitch Emery-1966 teeing off.

FLIGHT 1 - 1st Place FLIGHT 2 - 1st Place

Mark Gamblin, Rick Kappius, Harold Hoffman, Mark Sinnott Ken Kalasky-1976, Tom Kalasky-1972, Rich Kalasky, Jerry
FLIGHT 1 - 2nd Place Kalasky-1970

FLIGHT 2 - 2nd Place

Jerry Arellano-1976 (third from left) and his team. Robbie Gilbert-2013, Sean Mulligan-2012, Eric Mulligan-2013, Bob
Mulligan-2012
Above: The SHS team-Charles Northcutt,
SHS Golf Coach Kevin Kennedy, Maya THANK YOU!
Northcutt-2017, and Noe Chaparro-2018.
Left: Leo Sova-1968 with his raffle win - a EVENT VOLUNTEERS
new golf bag and swag.
Carole Safley (Chair), Mary Urkevich, Judy Storm, Gail Granger, Jen
More pictures Kracher, Sharon Kracher, Mary Stanek, Linda Filipowicz, and Paul
available online! Kracher (photos)

www.OmahaSouthAlumni.com SPONSORS

AAA Building Components, 60’s Decade Dance, Denny/Judi
Koubsky, Dunning for Sheriff, F.O.P. Lodge #2, Games People Play,
Midwest Tires, Lenli Corbett-2001, Overhead Door & Window,
Plumbers Local Union #16, Quality Door & Trim, Rudy Tesar, Variety
Printing, Wichita Heating & Cooling

PRIZE DONORS

Anthony’s Steakhouse, Carole Safley, John Krayneski, Julie/Ed
Diehm, Paul/Sharon Kracher, Mary Urkevich, Nebraska Lottery,
SHS Alumni Association

Page 2 Omaha South High School ALUMNI TOOTER Page 5

OMAHA GIVES! PRESS BOX SIGNAGE

We had a great Omaha Gives! campaign again this year. During A new sign sponsored by SHSAA was added to the
the online 24-hour charity challenge, 225 Packer Backers Collin Field
raised $5,542 for the SHS Alumni Association. We even press box
this spring.
exceeded our goal of Projects like
200 donors. Thanks to this show our
those who participated continued
and donated on this support and
awesome day! Your pride for Pack
support ensures that Nation. Thanks
SHSAA will be able to to Dean
continue on with our Rezac-1963
mission to promote for heading up
the success of SHS. this project.
Thank you Packers!

ANNUAL
LOTTERY

Ticket sales for our 2016 Lottery
will start September 9th. Please
note that the prize values have
INCREASED this year. You do not
want to miss your chance to win even
more money and support a great
cause!

Please contact the SHS Alumni
Office at 402-738-9493 or office@
omahasouthalumni.com if you would
like additional tickets.

Here are our 2015 winners:
$2000 Prize: Lisa Kammerer
$1000 Prize: Robert Gillen-1964
$500 Prize (4 winners):

Mary Mollner
John Wiren-1948
Dorothy Prusha-1951
Frank-1968 &
Margaret-1970 Fonfara
Check out more past winners here:
www.omahasouthalumni.com/annual-
lottery.
Thanks to everyone who supports us
through this fundraiser!

Page 6 Omaha South High School ALUMNI TOOTER Page 3

Association NEWS cont.
WELCOME BACK TEACHERS!
CALENDAR
The SHS Alumni Association OF EVENTS
welcomed back teachers and staff
with 270 Welcome Back goodie bags. THANK YOU! 8-17 SHS first day of school
Since 2004, alumni volunteers have 9-1 Fall TOOTER mailed
prepped, filled, and delivered bags full 9-9 17th Annual Lottery begins
of office supplies, helpful desk items, (pg. 5)
and an application for Special Project 9-23 Homecoming Alumni Tailgate
Funds available through the SHSAA (pg. 11)
to all SHS teachers and staff. Julie 9-23 SHS Homecoming Game
Diehm-1966 and her crew do an Collin Field
awesome job with this annual project! 9-24 Hall of Fame Brunch (pg. 8)
Thanks to our teachers and staff. We 10-26 Packer Sports Greats (pg. 10)
hope you have a great school year! 10-15 Alumni Board Meeting
9:00 a.m. Alumni Office
Julie Diehm Pat Priebe 12-9 Lottery winners drawn
Evelyn Winther Jen Kracher 12-23 Winter Break
Jackie Dower Cookie Brazda
Candi Rezac Ed Diehm 1-9 2017
Carole Safley Lil Cabiness 1-14 SHS classes resume
Mary Salcedo Alumni Board Meeting
2-25 9:00 a.m. Alumni Office
3-1 Casino Night (pg. 7)
3-25 Spring TOOTER mailed
Bowling Tournament
4-22 Mockingbird Lanes
Alumni Board Meeting
April 9:00 a.m. Alumni Office
Spaghetti Dinner–TBA
5-24 Gateway Elementary
5-25 Omaha Gives!
SHS Graduation

Page 2 Omaha South High School ALUMNI TOOTER Page 7

Page 8 Omaha South High School ALUMNI TOOTER Page 3

Hall of FAME

JACK HETTERICH - 1943 RON BERNTH - 1963

Jack is an award-winning artist, teacher, Ron, superintendent of schools in Hudson,
volunteer, inventor and patriot. He joined Wisconsin, retired after 17 years. He
the Navy right after graduation, studied received his BS, MS and Specialist degrees
aeronautics at NATTC, and served on a from UNO and his Doctor of Education
ship in the South Pacific. After the war, he degree from UNL with honors. He was a
studied electroplating where he received member, president or chair of numerous
an award for inventing a B-50 bomber administrator organizations and boards,
engine sling. He later worked in engineering and was the and he gave many presentations regarding education. Ron
owner of August Olson & Son Sheet Metal Co. At age 50, progressed in his 38-year career from teacher to principal
he transitioned to a full-time, basically self-taught, art to director to assistant superintendent to superintendent
career. He has been emersed in the art world ever since. in school districts in Nebraska, Missouri and Wisconsin. He
His works are in numerous prestigious locations in national has been active in numerous community, governmental,
and state capitols and many museums. Recently he has recreational, educational and civic organizations throughout
been teaching seniors how to paint at an Omaha senior his career. He was inducted into the Packer Sports Greats
center. He was featured on WOWT News as a member of the 1960 and 1962 baseball and the
because of his work with seniors. At 1963 metro football championship teams. He earned eight
age 91 he still has a class of 12 to 15 letters at SHS. He said, “SHS reflected
students. Jack is active in several artist the ‘melting pot’ of diversity that existed
associations and was active in church in South Omaha. The values and work
choirs most of his life. His son and ethic reflected by this school have
daughter both graduated from SHS, and served me well throughout my personal
he says his school courses prepared him and professional life experiences. I was
for his Navy and civilian careers. inspired to become an educator by Ms.
Sally Fellows, my history teacher. Those
RICK FRAWLEY - 1991 memories will be cherished forever.”

Rick is Senior Counsel for Ferrellgas, TOM JODLOWSKI
L.P. in Liberty, Missouri. He received his
BS degree from the University of Dayton The Distinguished Teacher Award
in Ohio, summa cum laude, and his JD winner is Thomas Jodlowski, SHS Special
degree from UNL College of Law where Education teacher from 1986 to 2011.
he graduated with highest distinction and He was a 1998 Alice Buffett Outstanding
was class valedictorian. He has bar/court Teacher award winner. He received both his
admissions in Missouri, Kansas, Florida and Wyoming. BS and MS degrees from UNO. Tom retired
Previous employment includes Bryan Cave, LLP where he in 2011 after 34 years teaching special
was named to its national Client Service All-Star Team. He education for OPS, which included 24 years at South High
has made presentations at industry and legal seminars School. In retirement, Tom serves as St. Stanislaus choir
and has volunteered for community, director and helps with its parish festival. He is also on
legal and charitable organizations. He the Polish Home board of directors and
said that he traces every good thing in serves activities manager. He continues
his life to SHS and teachers, such as Dr. involvement with special education
Kvasnicka, Dr. Turnquist, Ms. Fellows students by coaching the Special
and Mrs. Waterman, who all spotted Olympics Omaha Bears team. He has
some potential in him, and never let received awards from the Food Bank,
him self-destruct. He said their support OPS, and was inducted into the Special
made all the difference in his life. Olympics Hall of Fame. Tom said he
considers himself a Packer!

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 TOOTER Page 9

LON BERNTH - 1963 REV. TOM BAUWENS - 1978

Lon was Principal at Ralston Middle & High Rev. Bauwens is an award-winning Roman
School for 36 years. He received his BS Catholic priest who is currently the pastor
and MS degrees in secondary education of St. Wenceslaus Church in Omaha. He
from UNO with honors. Prior to joining has devoted his life to church service and
the Ralston School District, he held other running Catholic schools. He completed
positions, including teaching and coaching his BA Psychology degree at the University
at SHS. He was in the US Army Reserves of St. Thomas and his MA Divinity degree
for 25 years, including serving in the Persian Gulf War in from the University of St. Mary of the Lake. Father Tom has
Operation Desert Storm. He received the Bronze Star and served on community and religious institutional boards,
Army Commendation medals. After retiring in 2005, he including the Mayor’s Task Force and
became a world-class wildlife carver. He has taught wildlife the Archdiocesan Review Board. He was
carving and won many awards. He was inducted into the the founder of the Kateri Drum Warriors
Packer Sports Greats as a member of the 1960 and 1962 in Winnebago, Nebraska. He stated that
baseball teams and the 1963 metro SHS gave him an incredible foundation
football championship team. He was to build academic and business success.
selected All-City and All-State in football He cited phenomenal teachers, Dr.
in 1963 and earned eight letters at SHS. Kvasnicka, Mr. Beran and Mrs. Bean, as
He is active in church, community and great examples for him.
civic organizations. He credits teachers
and coaches at SHS and UNO for giving BOYSTOWN - SOUTH OMAHA
him opportunities for success and the
desire to serve others. Our Community Partner Award is going to Boys Town-
South Omaha, which provides help for troubled youths and
ROLAND HINRICHS families in the area. They opened a South Omaha office
on 2-18-14 in a strip
A special Lifetime Music Ambassador mall near 25th and
Award honoring SHS’s Music Man, Mr. L Streets to provide
Roland Hinrichs, will be accepted by his easier access to
wife, Janet. Mr. Hinrichs epitomized vocal needed services.
music at SHS from 1954 to 1984. Christmas Among other things, the South Omaha site provides a
presentations and central location for parenting classes, family visitations
musicals were polished with children who aren’t living at home for various reasons
productions under his guidance. In and office space for in-home family consultants, who
1963 he established the Ambassadors, previously worked out of their homes and cars. Boys Town
an outstanding choral group which has worked with clients in their own homes for a number
performed throughout the community. of years in the neighborhood. The move is in line with Boys
He touched many students’ lives and Town’s new strategic plan, which calls for the organization
enriched the entire music scene during to work more closely and deeply with residents and groups
his tenure as music director at SHS. within the communities it serves.

Page 10 Omaha South High School ALUMNI TOOTER Page 3

Packer Sports GREATS

Congratulations to the outstanding alumni who will be inducted into the Packer Sports Greats Hall of Fame in October! This
year’s individual inductees are Dave Aden-1959, Steve Tangeman-1973, Greg Yates-1976, Mark Martinez-1977, Tom
Miller-1978, Kari (Foral) Hodoly-1991. Other inductees include Coach Bruce Chubick Sr., the 1963 Cross Country Team,
and contributor Joe Cabral-1955. Inductees will be highlighted in the Spring Alumni TOOTER. Banquet details are below. All are
welcome to attend. Tickets are available now at the SHS Alumni Office – cost $40.

To recognize and honor former student-athletes, coaches, teams, and significant contributors
for their outstanding accomplishments and contributions to South’s Athletic Program.

When: Wednesday, October 26, 2016
Where: Anthony’s Steakhouse (72nd & F)
Time: 5:30 p.m. Social Time (Cash Bar)

7:00 p.m. Dinner

*Plated dinner of either Steak, Chicken or Salmon.

Cost: $40 per person (must be purchased in advance)

Individual Athletes Team

Dave Aden (Class of 1959) – Baseball 1963 Cross Country Team – State Champions
Steve Tangeman (Class of 1973) – Football
Greg Yates (Class of 1976) – Football/Track Contributor
Mark Martinez (Class of 1977) – Baseball
Tom Miller (Class of 1978) – Football/Track Joe Cabral (Class of 1955)
Kari Foral Hodoly (Class of 1991) – Track
Coach
 awarded posthumously
Bruce Chubick, Sr.

For questions or to purchase tickets call
the SHS Alumni Office at 402-738-9493.

Go to www.OmahaSouthAlumni.com
for more information.

Page 2 Omaha South High School ALUMNI TOOTER Page 11

2016 HOMECOMING
Homecoming is the week of September 18th and full of activities, come join us!

SEPTEMBER

T2HU2R An Evening with
the Magician

(Marlin Briscoe)
Baxter Arena
6:00 p.m.

2FR3I Alumni Tailgate
GI Forum Pavilion

5:00 p.m.
Homecoming Game

Collin Stadium
7:00 p.m.

2SA4T Hall of Fame Brunch
Livestock Exchange
10:30 a.m.

MEMORIAL PLAQUES

The memorial flagpole at Collin a reality. MARLIN BRISCOE-1963
Field has a new feature. It now The second
has an area to honor those plaque An Evening with the Magician promises to be
who have made a substantial honors Margie (Krakowski) an exciting, one-of-a-kind event with one of
contribution to the SHSAA. Speck -1940 for the generous Omaha’s greats. More details can be found
The first of two plaques added endowment she left SHSAA. online at www.BaxterArena.com. Marlin will
is for Jim-1970 and Shirley These plaques are available for also be honored during SHS’s Homecoming
(Samples)-1972 Young viewing now. Check them and all football game Friday night.
recognizing them for their the memorial bricks out before
involvement in making Collin Field the Homecoming game.

Page 12 Omaha South High School ALUMNI TOOTER Page 3

School UPDATE
Greetings from Omaha South High Magnet! represent the state of Nebraska at the 2016 International
Thespian Society Festival.
by Principal Ruben Cano The Packer Band
The 2015-16 school year was a great year at represented the state of
Omaha South. Our students continue to have Nebraska at the National
success in and out of the classroom. This Memorial Day Parade
past year our students and staff achieved in Washington D.C. Our
in the realm of academics, performing Luvabulls dance team
arts, athletics, and in reaching out to their represented Pack Nation
community. at the 2016 Sugar Bowl in
New Orleans. And the list
The Class of 2016 earned over 15 million dollars in goes on and on. The Packer family has so many things to be
scholarships, including 112 Buffett scholarships and 2 proud of and celebrate.
Gates Millennium scholarships. The college-bound culture at In athletics we celebrated three state titles this year as our
South High School continues to increase as the percentage boys basketball team, boys soccer team, and girls
of students heading to college after graduation continues to power lifting team proved that the Pack is the best in the
rise. state! Our girls cross-country team qualified for State
Speaking of Buffett, in case you missed it, we had two for the second year in a row, our track team qualified for
teachers earn the distinguished Buffett Outstanding state, and Maya Northcutt qualified for State golf. Basketball
Teacher Award for their dedication and commitment to
player, Aguek Arop
Omaha South and their students. was selected as
Mr. David Weisser-1998 (english) the 2016 Nebraska
and Mr. John Tripp (science) were Boys Basketball
both selected for this prestigious Gatorade Player
award and now their names are of the Year and
added to the list of Buffett winning Maricruz Mora-
teachers who have been staff at Becerra was
Omaha South High. Our drama selected as
teacher, Mr. Barratt, received the Theater Educator Complete Athlete
Award at the 2016 Nebraska Thespian Society Festival for University’s Complete Athlete of the Month. These are
all his efforts in our theater program. just a few of the accomplishments of our Packer athletes.
Our South High film studies students Right behind our athletes are our coaches, and this year,
took their talents to the Elkhorn Valley boys basketball coach Bruce Chubick was awarded OW-H
BEA D7 Film and media conference and Nebraska Boys Coach of the Year (a first for South)!
brought home 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place As we prepare to start the new school year it is my hope that
finishes in various categories. Several we will continue to see alumni at all of our events. Our staff
art students earned honors in various and students appreciate seeing the community in the stands
art competitions, notably the Scholastic and in the auditorium during athletic and performing arts
and Bellevue University art competitions. events. Go Pack!
Our Thespian Troupe was selected to

Page 2 Omaha South High School ALUMNI TOOTER Page 13

Scholarship RECIPIENTS
We are so very proud to introduce the 32 recipients of the SHSAA 2016 Scholarships! Congratulations!
South High Alumni Association Scholarship Recipients ($1,000 each)

Dariela Giovanni Stephanie Alvaro Alejandra Brenda Helen Efren Alex Gabriela Celeste
Cervantes Cruz Delgado Elizarraga Escobar Esqueda Estanislao Garcia Gomez Gonzales Gonzalez

Gabriela Jonathan Sahsha Alicia Denise Wah Maria Perez Juliana Cristina Sofia Simon-
Hernandez Leones Lovermi Luis Munoz Paw Hernandez Rodriguez Salazar Martinez

SHSAA Endowed Scholarship Recipients ($1,000 unless noted)

RAodlbreigrutoez WMaFtiyaeenrnnaobe Judith SMiedmerowriicazl LDOilvgyodAreannkn LJt.. GDeunla.cLkeio MNaundcray Shelia Shane Margie KrakowskI Speck
Spohr Little Cain Kielion ($1,500 each)

“Brandon Maria Sandra Lisseth Silvia Guadalupe Ashley John Jalen Heather Maricruz
Greenhagen Hill Pano-Gallardo Chavez Luna-Valle Rodriguez Roper Coate Tate Leach-Trickel Mora

“You [SHSAA] give our generation inspiration to keep givinggebnaecraktitoonthjuesctoams myouunditiydaunsd.”s-uEppfroernt tGheanrecixat

”I want to thank you for having hope in my future and believing I can achieve my goals. I will continue m-Ly issusectcheCsshaavnidz
become the person I have set myself to be. It would not have been possible without this opportunity.”

“With the financial assistance you provided me, I will finally accomplish my goal of being the first person in my family to
ever attend college and be an example for my younger sibling to follow. Also, I will make sure that just like you, I will help
other students in the future achieve their goals and continue their education.” -Maria Perez Hernandez

“I graduated from South this year with an immense sense of pride coupled with humility. A strange pairing, however it did
not, for one second, feel unnatural, as I had just graduated from a school as amazing as can be – 4 years as a Packer!
As a part of a group that identified with strength, perseverance, more accurately sometimes described as stubbornness
or resilience. Packers created a culture at South that cultivated passion, growth, and hardwork. I just want to say thank
you. Honestly thank you, I thank you with all my heart and my will that it took to get to this point. I’ve survived some of the
obstacles I’m sure many of the alumni have faced too, but what resonates with me the most, is that through all of that,
who is still coming back to help? Fellow Packers. I am honored, truly honored, to be able to uphold now the title you all
carry as an Omaha South High Alumni. People like you are a blessing! Just know this act of generosity and genuine belief
in us, myself, and just the entirety of one community does inspire and does create a change. A whole-hearted thank you
from my family too. I’m inspired too. To come and invest and truly believe in our dreams, that’s rare in -oBurrleivnedsa. OEhsq!uI ewdiall
be attending Harvard and majoring in Psychology. For all this and more – thank you!”

“As a low-income and first generation student, it seemed difficult to find a way to pay for college, but thankfully there are
generous foundations, like the SHS Alumni Association, to help us. I hope to achieve more cthaarenegr.r”e-aAtnelesjsanadnrdamEaskcoebmary
Packer family proud in my future

“Thank you for investing in me through the SHSAA scholarship! I plan tthoepOumrsauheaactoemacmhiunngitdy.e”gr-eGe aanbrdiecloeantHinueerntoangdiveez
back to

Page 14 Omaha South High School ALUMNI TOOTER Page 3

Reunion TIME 2017
2016

1950lllllllllllllllllll lllllllllllllllllll 1957lllllllllllllllllll lllllllllllllllllll

We are invited to join the Class of 1951 at their 65th A 60th year reunion will be held at the Comfort Inn, 70th
reunion luncheon on Friday, 9-16-16 at 11:30 a.m. at and Grover, Omaha on 7-22-17, 5 p.m.-??. Food and drink
Gorat’s Steakhouse (49th & Center). Completely informal; will be available to purchase. No mailing will be sent. Watch
no programs or speeches. Pay only for what you order. A for more details in the Alumni TOOTER and SHSAA website.
time for visiting, catching up, reminiscing and bragging Contacts: JoAnn Pechar (402-734-1111) or jtpechar@cox.
about kids, grandkids and great-grandkids. Medical issues net. Shirley Shiery at [email protected].
may be discussed. Spouses, friends and members of
other classes are welcome. Contact Arnie Kriegler at 972- 1962lllllllllllllllllll lllllllllllllllllll
896-1522 with questions.
A 55th year reunion is tentatively set for the spring of
1951lllllllllllllllllll 2017. More details in the 2017 Spring Alumni TOOTER.

lllllllllllllllllll 1967lllllllllllllllllll

A 65th year reunion is planned for Friday, 9-16-16 at lllllllllllllllllll
11:30 a.m. at Gorat’s Steak House, 4917 Center St. There
will be no reminder mailings. All classes and spouses are SAVE THE DATE! A 50th year reunion is planned for
welcome to attend. You only pay for what you order. For August 25-26, 2017. Please send your email address to
more information contact Donna Untiedt Krambeck at [email protected]. More details will be available
402-331-6955. in the 2017 Spring Alumni TOOTER.

1972lllllllllllllllllll lllllllllllllllllll

1956lllllllllllllllllll lllllllllllllllllll A 45th year reunion is planned for Saturday, 8-19-17 at
Horsemen’s Park in the northend room from 7:00 - 11:00
A 60th year and Final Reunion is planned for Thursday, p.m. A Save the Date will be sent later this year and more
9-22-16 at Horsemen’s Park (casual attire). Reception information the first of 2017.
cash bar - 6 p.m. | Dinner 7:30 p.m. Friday, 9-23-
16: Alumni Tailgate, GI Forum Pavilion at 5:30 p.m. | 1997lllllllllllllllllll lllllllllllllllllll
Homecoming Game, Collin Field at 7 p.m. (optional).
Saturday, 9-24-16: Guided Tour of SHS at 10 a.m. SAVE THE DATE! A 20th year reunion is planned for June
(optional). Contacts: Bob Fitzsimmons, [email protected] 2-3, 2017. Check us out on Facebook: www.facebook.
or Lucy Burrell (Wilke), [email protected]. com/group/OSHS1997/. Watch for more information in
the 2017 Spring Alumni TOOTER.
1968lllllllllllllllllll
lllllllllllllllllll

The 2nd annual “Packers on the Patio” at Petrow’s on Attention Classes: 1977 (40), 1982 (35), 1987 (30),
Friday, 9-9-16 from 7 p.m. until close. $10 per person in 1992 (25), 2002 (15), 2007 (10), 2012 (5) - we have
advance includes sandwich and one drink; $15 at the
door charge. RSVP to Tom Westman at 402-218-8124. not yet heard of any reunion plans for your class.
Classic cars are welcome, all Packers invited to attend. Let us know of any plans and we will spread the word!

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 TOOTER Page 15

1 1960s DECADE
9 DANCE
6
1 The Class of 1961 celebrated their 55th reunion on a hot June day at A dance of the decade, specifically
the 1960s, was held 6-11-16 at the
Cirlce C Rockin’ Ranch in Bellevue. (Photo credit: Lifetouch) German American Society. The sold
out crowd of 450 included alumni
1 from every class during the 1960s.
9 Attendees were entertained by The
6 Persuaders and spent the evening
6 The Class of 1966 celebrated their 50th reunion at the Aspen Room in catching up with classmates. Thanks
to everyone who attended and to
Omaha. (Photo credit: Funk Photography) all volunteers that made this event
possible!

PRICECLUTAUNSRIOSENS 1960s DECADE DANCE THANK YOUS!
Take a group To the 1960 Decade Dance Committee, Class of 1961, To the class of 1966, thank you to those
picture of all your 1963, 1965, 1966, 1967, 1968 & 1969 Representatives: who planned & organized the dance:

classmates in Julie Diehm-1966 (Chair) Marilyn Gillen-1966 Micki Zbylut Lori Hunter
attendance and Donna Sheehan-1967 Marie Sempek-1966 Hilda Gurwell Larry Michnick
email it to office@ Candy Rezac-1963 Linda Yoder Charles-1967 Chuck Janousek Mike Siedlik
omahasouthalumni.com. Mary Kammerer-1966 Helene Elsasser-1968 Mary Salcedo Dee Svatos
We will put it in the Jackie Casper-1961 Polly Chandler-1966 Joyce Michnick Julie Diehm
next Alumni TOOTER! Diane Battiato-1967 Micki Zbylut-1966 Jim Macaitis
Nancy Shelton-1963 Mary Salcedo-1966
Bettie Foral-1969 Lori Hunter-1966 Others:
Carol Daley-1965 Suzanne Schultz-1967 Carole Safley-1976 Gail Granger-1972

Page 16 Omaha South High School ALUMNI TOOTER Page 3

AlumNOTES
1 9 3 0 sllllllll 1945-John G. Kurtz’s daughter, Jane 1959-Sharon D. (Barr) Jacobson
llllllll Kurtz, writes, “John took enduring celebrated her 75th birthday on 03-
enjoyment in polka music, physical 30-16.
1933-William M. “Bill” Bilek fitness and the wonderful cooking of
celebrated his 100th birthday on his wife. Possessing a keen memory,
5-16-16. Bill is retired from Western he was a storehouse of weather
Electric and a longtime local musician. data and balanced his checkbook
in his head. But, it is his patient,
1934-Leonard L. Dockweiler of courageous, encouraging spirit that Maass brothers cheering on South at
Aurora, CO celebrated his 100th meant so much to his friends and the Soccer State Championship game.
birthday in June. Leonard writes, “A family. Long ago, as a final act of L->R: Hank (joined marines), Tom-
note to let you know I am a 1934 generosity, John committed to be a 1963, David-1957.
graduate. I will hopefully reach 100 in donor to UNMC.”
June. I still feel great and live alone. I
quit driving in March. God Bless.”

1 9 4 0 sllllllll llllllll 1 9 5 0 sllllllll llllllll

1943-Joe Cupich, who was also 1950-Rita (Kanovsky) Vallinch 1 9 6 0 sllllllll llllllll
known as Mr. Baseball, was honored and husband, Steve, celebrated 65
in June 2016 with a dedication of the years of marriage. They were blessed
Joe Cupich Memorial Sports Complex with three daughters. A family dinner
at Seymour Smith Park. commemorated the special occasion.

1943-John Fountain was inducted 1951-Donald and Dorothy (Kolc) 1961-Frank Pasieka and his wife,
posthumously into the 2016 Svajgl-1952 celebrated their 50th Kathleen, celebrated their 50th
Nebraska Hall of Fame. A two-year anniversary on 3-3-16. They have anniversary on 7-2-16. They renewed
two sons, two grandchildren and two their vows in front of family and
starter in basketball, honorary great-grandchildren. “Happy friends at Lauritzen Gardens with
he made the 1942 Anniversary Mom and Dad. We love Kathleen wearing her original wedding
All-Nebraska team as you!” gown. They have three children.
a junior. Johnny was
referred to being “as 1955-Charlotte (Daubman) Erdman 1965-John and Mary (Smith)
smooth as chocolate and husband, Darrell, celebrated their Salcedo-1966 celebrated their 50th
milk” on the court and 60th anniversary on 8-4-16. A card anniversary with family on 5-25-16.
considered the best shower was hosted by their children,
ball-handler in the state. Michael and Richard, and their two 1966-Pat (Diehm) Priebe and her
South Coach Cornie Collin put Johnny grandchildren. husband, Clifford, celebrated their
among his all time greats. In August 50th anniversary with family on 7-16-
1942, Johnny was stabbed to death 1958-Camie Egger­celebrated her 16.
while in Alliance, NE working on a retirement with over 250 guests
wartime construction crew. at the DC Centre in May 2016. 1966-Edward C. Whitmarsh writes,
Immediately after graduating SHS, “Today is 7-22-16 and I just read the
1944-Paul Hotovec celebrated Carmie started her successful 58 year Spring 2016 TOOTER. Wow! What a
his 90th birthday on 3-10-16. career as executive secretary, board great job. Professional, interesting
He celebrated with friends at the member and shareholder with Lueder and informative. I would like to
Bohemia Café. Construction Company. compliment the TOOTER staff on
such a good job. Thank you, I really
1944-Helen M. (Liska) Wichita 1958-Ernest Hanna and wife, Mary, enjoyed it!” Edward also sent a
celebrated her 90th birthday in July. celebrated their 50th anniversary on thank you to the Alumni Association
Her sister, Marie Aakre-1952, and 7-3-16. They renewed their wedding for their support of the South High
nephew attended from Wisconsin. vows that same month with family and boys basketball program and its
friends. student athletes. He wrote, “Your
1944­-Everett “Jack” Lively contributions and generosity have
celebrated his 90th birthday on 6-4- 1958-Jim and Ardyth (Lad) Baratta been a vital part of building the
16 with family and friends at an open celebrated their 55th anniversary program to what it is today.”
house in Gretna. in July 2016. We have so many
great memories of our years at SHS. 1966-George and Andrea
1944-Frank Riha of Springfield, Particularly, being chosen Senior (Vaneske) Ogg-1965 celebrated
NE celebrated his 80th birthday on Prom King and Queen. their 50th anniversary on 3-1-16. They
August 29. Frank attended SHS then celebrated with their two children,
joined the Army. After his service, he 1958-Jesse J. Villafuerte in Lead, four grandchildren and four honorary
returned to Sarpy County and farmed SD fondly remembers his teacher, Mr. grandchildren. “Happy Anniversary
with his dad, Louis Riha-1929. His Zinn. “Mr. Zinn had a lot to do with the Mom and Dad! We love you!”
family held a card shower for him. successful life I have led.”

Page 2 Omaha South High School ALUMNI TOOTER Page 17

1967-­ Nancy Brabec was the lucky Mittermeier Gillespie-1972) and chapter of the Society for Technical
winner of a hand­ a brother (Jim Mittermeier-1977), Communicators Luncheon Series.
crafted Husker quilt. all are South High graduates! My
Nancy won the quilt 2 brothers, weren’t there, John 1 9 8 0 sllllllll llllllll
donated by Carol Mittermeier-1962 and Joe
Daley-1965. The Mittermeier-1975. 1983­-LoPao Thao wrote the
quilt drawing took Signed, A Packer Backer for life.” Alumni Association to thank them
place at the SHSAA 1972-Paul Novotny’s success was for keeping in touch by sending her
Spaghetti Dinner. celebrated on 6-10-16 by his family TOOTER to Woodbury, MN. She fondly
Congratulations! remembers coming to South High
as he was inducted in 1980 where she was challenged
1968-Sandy (Rieschl) Estes posthumously into the and learned her ABC’s. Today she is
celebrated her 66th birthday with a Class of 2016 Coaches a college graduate. LoPao’s dream is
surprise party thrown by her family in Hall of Fame. Paul’s to continue to support her children as
June. Sandy’s answer to turning 66 dedication and love for they are educated and she hopes for
was, “I get a paycheck now and don’t the sport of wrestling them to all earn advanced degrees.
have to go to work!” was acknowledged
at the Nebraska 2 0 0 0 sllllllll
1 9 7 0 sllllllll llllllll Scholastic Wrestling llllllll
Coaches 35th Annual Hall of Fame
1971-Laura (Mittermeier) Smith Banquet held in Grand Island, NE. 2003-­ Jessica DeLeon-Rivera
sent in a note, “Just a quick note, Paul wrestled for SHS and then Briar graduated from Florida
to let you know, that the [Spaghetti] Cliff College. His career included Coastal School of Law
Dinner was a lot of fun! coaching for the South Omaha Boys with honors in May
Club, St. Thomas Moore elementary 2016. Her mother, Kat
A LOT of spaghetti! I heard a lot of and Gross Catholic high school. His DeLeon-1983 shared
compliments on the Cascio’s sauce efforts led Gross to achieving four this awesome news on
and Orsi bread! This was the first straight team championships and nine Facebook.
time I had gone to the Gateway School individual state champions.
location. It was awesome! 1974-Kellie (Fahey) Tuller and her 2 0 1 0 sllllllll llllllll
husband, James “J.J.” celebrated their
Loved the ROTC students manning the 25th anniversary 3-15-16. They were 2016-Dania Cervantes was featured
parking lot. Very organized! And the brought together on an August night in an OW-H 3-29-16 story about
cheerleaders/dance team girls were in 1990 by a persistent matchmaking “Dreamers” being able to attend college
very friendly and accommodating! friend and a friendly dart game. They through private donations. Although
I had asked one of the girls if the have one son, Jake. she was ranked second in her class,
2015/2016 State Basketball State 1976-Thomas Foster from League had many extracurricular activities
Championship Trophy was going to City, TX, opened his own company, and Advanced Placement courses,
be on display. She did come back to Thomas and Laurel Creative Design, she was not eligible for federal or state
me, with an answer. That would have in August 2015. His business assistance. She was brought as a
been cool to see that. She told me development, proposals and child to the USA, and is not subject to
that the principal said that I could marketing company has clients in deportation due to “Deferred Action
come and see it at South, and the Houston and Chicago and will be for Childhood Arrivals,” which provides
soccer trophy too. It was fun to hear expanding to the San Francisco/ temporary lawful status if certain criteria
the update/score of the soccer game San Jose area. In 2015, he was also are met. Dania is enrolled in nursing
that had been played that morning. named chairman of the Houston school at the College of Saint Mary.

I was there with two sisters (Lolly
Mittermeier-1960 and Lucy

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 18 Omaha South High School ALUMNI TOOTER Page 3

Support SHSAA
WONDERING HOW YOU CAN HELP?

Part of SHS Alumni Association’s 9th). Another way to help is to donate contributions are tax deductible.
mission is to promote the success items or services for the door prizes If you have any questions, feel
of SHS students through a variety that are given at our alumni events. free to contact the SHS Alumni
of events and projects. Through Please consider donating passes or Office at 402-738-9493 or office@
participation, hard work and generous tickets to UNO, Creighton, Husker omahasouthalumni.com.
donations from our alumni and sporting events, or gift
friends, these events and projects in certificates to restaurants, retail
turn generate scholarship funds. stores or local businesses that
Alumni often ask us how they can you or your company offer.
support their alumni association. Below you can see a breakdown
Besides a monetary donation, support (by total percentage) of our
can be given in a variety of ways. annual revenues. As you can
Alumni can help by participating and see, your participation in our
attending our annual events like the events and/or your monetary
spaghetti dinner, golf tournament, contributions are critical to our
bowling tournament and casino night. success.
Alumni can also help by purchasing Remember, we are a 501(c)(3)
annual lottery tickets (on sale Sept. non-profit organization and all

SHSAA REVENUES BY TYPE

DONATIONS EVENTS

Page 2 Omaha South High School ALUMNI TOOTER Page 19

CLASS GIFTS DMOENMOORRSABILIA

1 9 6 6lllllllll llllllll 1930-Dorothy A. (Ruemping)
Young’s estate donated 5 pristine
The Class of 1966, organizers of the SHS yearbooks ranging from 1927 to
1960s Decade Dance, generously 1932.
donated $3300 to the SHSAA 1952-Alice (Vodicka) Stanek
Scholarship Fund. donated a treasure-trove of
memorabilia to the SHS Alumni
Thank you! Association. It included 1951-52-
53 scrapbooks of Bumping Elbows
Thank you to the classes who columns, photos and class articles,
are able to contribute to the address and event booklets from the
SHSAA Scholarship Fund via 10th to 60th reunions, and a signed
class gifts. We are also very register of 1992 reunion attendees.
grateful to those who donate Other items are from 1951 and 1953
class reunions, and finally a 1952
memorabilia from their booklet of favorite faculty recipes.
high school days to the SHS 1967-Carol (Burney) Clark was
visiting family in Omaha from Eau
Alumni Association. Claire, WI and donated her mother,
Margaret (Andersen) Burney’s
CONTACT SHSAA collection of South High School
archives. Margaret was also South
Alumni Office High graduate.
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
Mary Renner Urkevich

Diane Atkins

TOOTER Designer / Webmaster
Jen Kracher

Website
www.OmahaSouthAlumni.com

Facebook
SouthHighAlumniAssociation

Twitter
@OmaSouthAlumni

SHS Representatives
SHS School: (402) 557-3600

Mr. Ruben Cano, Principal
Dennis Mitchell, Assistant Principal

Tom Dickey, Technology

Page 20 Omaha South High School ALUMNI TOOTER Page 3

In MEMORIAM
1930s1933-Dorothy P. (Hunter) Putney of Fairfield, CT died 10-29-15.1942-John R. Gomez, Sr. of Omaha died 3-9-16. He is
llllllllllllllllll llllllllllllllllll survived by his wife, Loretta B. (Fucinaro)-1942.
1933-Georgia (Kozel) Kiscoan of Gretna, NE died 2-23-16. 1942-Marie (Kavalec) Halvorson of Forest Grove, OR died
Georgia was 100 years old. 2-1-16.
1935-Frank J. Hrbek of Bellevue, NE died 7-10-09. 1942-John J. Maliszewski of Omaha died 7-13-16.
1935-Valera R. “Val” Pesek of Waterloo, NE died 5-8-16. 1942-Mary Ann (Matcha) Dusek of Omaha died 6-10-16.
Val was 99 years old. 1942-Virginia M. (Matulaitis) Miloni of Omaha died 4-25-16.
1936-Mildred B. (Baldwin) Bryan of Fremont, CA died 1942-Marie C. (Olsen) Moore of Omaha died 3-12-16.
8-22-09.
1936-Jane (Domet) Gorup of 1942-Mary J. (Phelps) French
Omaha died 7-2-16. of Scottsdale, AZ died 3-16-16.
Her daughter, Joyce Sharp, wrote,
Memorial Prayer1936-Florence A. (Holmquist) “Mary was a June 1942 graduate.
She was a very successful realtor
Kadavy of Omaha died 12-17-08. in Arizona and lived until 92 years.
1936-Geraldine “Toots” She will be missed so much.”
(Nepodal) Kraw of Omaha died Life gives us brief moments with another, 1942-Louise C. “Lucy” (Sesto)
7-9-16. but sometimes in those brief moments Zarbano of Omaha died 4-1-16.

1936-Glenva K. (Welch) Lind of we get memories that last a lifetime. 1942-Mary (Ziccardi) Rossitto
Omaha died 7-21-16. of Omaha died 7-28-16.
1937-Mildred A. (Dusek) Krejci
of Omaha died 5-12-16. She was 1943-Rose (Sevek) Foreman of
preceded in death by her husband, Anton-1935. Omaha died 4-22-16.
1937-Edward T. Sobczyk of Omaha died 5-24-16. 1943-Margaret (Sullivan) “Margie” Gulizia of Louisville,
1938-Aaron E. Downs of Omaha died 1-6-00. NE died 2-23-16.
1944-Lorraine J. (Lisec) Bartlett of Omaha died 7-16-16.
1938-Helen F. (Galda) Jasa of Fremont, NE died 2-22-16. 1944-Shirley E. (Ourada) Calta of Glenwood, IA died 3-14-
1938-Louise A. (Roza) Krejci of Omaha died 6-13-16. 16.
1944-Lorraine C. (Wisniski) Evans of Omaha died 4-5-16.
1939-Richard D. Hight of Sun City, AZ died 3-20-06.
1939-Marie M. (Tourek) Forman of Bellevue, NE died 5-15- 1944-Doris J. (Young) Nary of Bellevue, NE died 3-11-16.
16. 1945-Thomas Hassett died 6-13-16.
1945-Helen A. (Jergovic) Visty of Omaha died 3-30-16.
1940sllllllllllllllllll llllllllllllllllll Proceeded in death by husband, Edward-1943.
1945-John G. Kurtz of Omaha died 11-29-12.
1940-Margaret (Chadnick) Johns of San Diego, CA died 1945-Marilyn (Wright) Griffith of Omaha died 6-16-16.
3-24-16. 1946-Leon C. Blessie of Omaha died 5-13-16. He is
1940-Margaret (Hansen) Perlinger of Elsie, NE died 1-25-14. survived by his wife of 56 years, Elizabeth “Betty”
1940-Virginia H. (Heuer) Manard of Omaha 7-23-16. (Hetmanek)-1948.
1940-Bernard R. “Bernie” Lotspeich of Omaha died 3-22- 1946-Betty J. (Loves) Kasparek of Ralston, NE died 4-5-16.
16. He is survived by his wife, Mary-1940. 1946-James F. Svajgl of Council Bluffs, IA died 3-20-16. He
1940-Leona A. (Novak) Helms of Omaha died 7-21-16. is survived by his wife, Alyce “Jean” (Mixan)-1946.
1940-Rose (Reynek) Allender of Elkhorn, NE died 4-30-93. 1946-Gwendolyn M. “Gwen” (Nelson) Dodge of Omaha
1940-Joseph T. Siedlik of Papillion, NE died 7-9-16. He is died 6-2-16.
survived by his children Joseph-1966, Sandy Hayek-1969 1947-Patricia (Bates) Anderson of Plano, TX died 1-24-16.
and Bruce-1973. 1947-Marion D. Engelke of Omaha died 3-31-16.
1941-Bernice “Trudy” E. (Frodyma) Irwin of Denver, CO 1947-­ Donald Fitzwater of Waterloo, NE died May 2016.
died 6-5-16.
1941-Shirley L. (Grobeck) Mahoney of Omaha died 4-6-16. 1947-Margaret M. (Long) Landon of Omaha died 6-7-16.
1941-Robert L. “Bob” Hansen of Omaha died 3-7-16. 1947-Martha E. (Smutny) Talmon of Omaha died 6-13-16.
1948-Frank J. Sykora of Bellevue, NE died 7-30-16. He is
1941-Betty J. (Uzel) Way of Omaha died 6-11-16. survived by his wife, Mary (Cossano)-1952.
1941-Marie (YaKopec) Foster of League City, TX died 2-16-16. 1949-Dr. Charles M. “Emeritus” Godwin of Lincoln, NE died
1941-William R. Yambor, Sr. of Omaha died 7-20-16. 5-9-16.
1942-Jack M. Evans of Omaha died 5-5-99.

Page 2 Omaha South High School ALUMNI TOOTER Page 21

1950sllllllllllllllllll llllllllllllllllll 1955-Sara J. (Prestito) Fuqua of Omaha died 6-14-16.
1955-Kathleen (Siedlyk) Lively of Murrieta, CA died
1950-Janet M. (McKenzie) Segrave of Cheyenne, WY died 3-15-16.
3-21-16. 1956-William C. Kastl of Omaha died 1-8-13. He is
1950-Rose M. (Schweiger) Steiner of Yankton, SD died survived by his wife, Laura (Footer)-1959.
9-29-15. 1956-Thomas F. Nieto of Omaha died 3-31-16. He is
1950-Gloria A. (Westling) Kuhns of Franklin, NE died 9-15-15. survived by his wife, Linda (Ramirez)-1960.
1951-Katherine A. (Danahy) Sandberg of Omaha died 1956-Theresa M. (Perich) Clark of Omaha died 4-21-16.
7-27-16. She is survived by her husband of 53 years, Al-1953.
1951-Ellen E. (Davis) Cooper of Omaha died 5-18-16. 1957-Dolores D. (Dropinski) Kain of Green Valley, AZ
1951-Bonnie L. (Matheson) Radik of Omaha died 4-18- died 6-10-16. She is survived by her husband, Jim-1956.
16. She is survived by her husband of 62 years, Emil-1951. 1957-Evelyn (Grabenschorer) Nelsen of Martinez, CA
1952-Virginia C. (Dubas) Stopak of Bellevue, NE died 12- died September 2013.
29-15. 1957-Diane J. (Griger) Haas of LaVista, NE died 10-6-15.
1952-Mary A. (Kersigo) Miklas of Omaha died 4-15-16. 1957-Lois E. (Lange) Breci of Omaha died 1-7-15.
1952-Blythe J. Kobovec of Omaha died 3-16-16. 1957-Marilyn (Thrush) Kudirka of Omaha died 5-22-11.
1952-Carol J. Thompson of San Francisco, CA died 9-1-15. 1958-Jeanette (Dropinski) Liss of Omaha died 6-24-16.
1952-Carol J. (Wrightsman) Dunkle of Searcy, AR died 1958-Ronnie “Ron” Hightshoe of Gallatin, MO died 12-12-
2-2-15. 15. He is survived by his wife, Bertha (Heaton)-1960.
1953-Carolyn J. (Texel) Novotny of Omaha died 5-23-16. 1958-Barbara J. (Hunter) Seffron of Cheyenne, WY died
She is survived by her husband of 61 years, Frank-1949. 7-15-07.
1953-Nancy C. (Thompson) Karnes of Omaha died 1958-John E. Seffron, Sr. of Sun City, CA died 4-11-14.
3-18-16. 1959-Sharon R. (Thomas) Kangior of Omaha died 5-10-16.
1954-Robert L. “Pat” ”Bob” Patterson of Bellevue, NE 1959-Joan (Zeluf) Totusek of Omaha died 7-18-16.
died 4-21-16.
1954-Carl E. Sullivan of Ralston, NE died 5-5-16. 1960sllllllllllllllllll llllllllllllllllll
1955-Leona N. (Cook) Pearson of New Albany, IN died in
2015. 1960-Thomas C. Bryant of Omaha died 1-15-14.

Page 22 Omaha South High School ALUMNI TOOTER Page 3

In MEMORIAM cont.
1960-Bonnie L. (Collins) Grace of Loveland, CO died 11-1-15. MO died 6-1-16.
1960-Elaine E. (Greiner) Bosiljevac of Papillion, NE died 1967-Steven D. Brown of Colorado Springs, CO died 3-9-16.
1-4-16. 1967-Joseph E. Girthoffer, Jr. of Omaha died 4-2-16.
1961-Craig A. Cockson of Omaha died 2-15-16. 1967-Wayne E. Miller of Omaha died 4-3-16.
1961-Norman S. “Bud” Gohr of Omaha died 4-25-16. 1968-Darlene J. (Fischer) Smyser of Sioux City, IA died
1961-James L. “Popsicle” Pospisil of Omaha died 4-22-16. 6-1-16.
1961-James M. Rapaich of Council Bluffs, IA died 1-17-16. 1968-Lawrence A. “Larry” Sekyra of Omaha died 7-2-16.
1961-Dorothy “Diane” (Wymore) Hoppe of Lathrop, MO died 1969-Susan M. “Suzie” (Berlett) Heldt of Omaha died
4-11-16. 5-9-16.
1962-Gary Doughty of Bellevue, NE died 9-21-15. 1969-George A. Elsasser of Omaha died 6-14-16.
1962-Lucille E. (Knapp) Taylor of Council Bluffs, IA died 1969-James M. Perkins of Omaha died 1-24-16.
6-27-16. 1969-Karen K. (Wolfarth) Furst of Omaha died 7-31-16.
1962-Robert D. “Bob” Mack of Omaha died 3-18-16.
1962-James J. Urbanec of Omaha died 3-28-16. 1970sllllllllllllllllll llllllllllllllllll
1963-Howard Day of Bellevue, NE died 4-11-16.
1963-William J. “Bill” Van Haute of Cape Coral, FL died 1970-Maynard A. Cole of Mesa, AZ died 4-4-16. He is
4-18-16. survived by his sisters, Violet Cole-1966 and Brenda
1963-Sharon K. (West) Haase of Papillion, NE died 4-28-16. (Cole) Bilec-1974.
1964-Carol (Bailey) Stump of Plattsmouth, NE died 1-24-16. 1970-Patricia K. “Trish” (McCormick) Hill of Omaha died.
1964-Iwan Hluchoweckyj of Omaha died 10-10-13. 1971-Steve J. Horvath died.
1964-Dana K. Hovey of LaVista, NE died 4-10-16. 1971-Charles White died.
1964-Susan (Kirkman) Rude of Omaha died 2-9-16. 1972-Deborah K. (Beranek) Nelson of Omaha died 12-7-09.
1964-Ron B. Ratcliff of Omaha died 6-29-16. 1973-Calvin Bartunek of Omaha died 1-29-15.
1964-Sherry M. (Stuart) Pecha of Omaha died 6-29-16. 1973-Thomas J. Grisinger of Fishers, IN died 9-30-15.
She is survived by her husband, Donald-1962. Tom graduated from UNL in Engineering and married Susan
1965-Raymond H. Paulson of Roanoke, TX died 5-20-98. in 1976. They were married for 39 years and have two
He was a Vietnam vet and died from Agent Orange. Ray is daughters. He was employed with Lehigh Hanson. Do you
survived by his wife, Kathryn (Hafsaas)-1972. remember him as the lead, Tevye, in Fiddler on the Roof?
1965-Nancy A. Rehn of Bellevue, NE died 3-4-16. 1973-James R. Trawicke of Omaha died 6-10-16.
1965-Victoria J. Wieczorek of Omaha died 7-15-16. 1974-Michael L. Johnston of Eagle River, AK died 2-21-16.
1966-Michael J. Cain died. 1976-Richard J. Mengler, Jr. of Omaha, NE died 5-7-16.
1966-Ronald Humpal died. 1977-Dennis E. Kimble of Omaha died 2-9-03.
1966-Bertha L. (Marion) Mackins of Omaha died 6-28-16. 1978-Loretta F. (McCormick) Rettele of Omaha died
1966-Robert T. Sopcich died. 6-28-16.
1966-James E. Stuva of Omaha died 7-16-16.
1967-Diane M. (Barta) Kaczmarek of Cape Girardeau, 1980sllllllllllllllllll llllllllllllllllll

1984-Kelly J. Gusman of Omaha died 7-24-16.
1984-Phyllis A. (Muellner) Schmitt of Omaha died 4-8-16.

2000sllllllllllllllllll llllllllllllllllll

2008-Therese E. Steil of Omaha died 4-30-16.

lllllll SHS Family & Friends lllllll

Barbara Rimington, mother of Dave Rimington-1978, died
2-9-16.
Jeffrey P. Bosiljevac, son of Frankie (Gruber) Kopecky-1961,
died 5-6-16.

Carol Van Metre, SHS supporter and contributor, died 6-8-16.
A memorial for Carol will be held at Field Club on 9-9-16.

Page 2 Omaha South High School ALUMNI TOOTER Page 23

MEMORIALS GIVEN recognized and inducted at the 50th Shrine Bowl Hall of
Fame. Sonny was a proud Marine, awarded the American
Memorials were given to SHSAA in honor and Spirit Honor Medal. While serving in Viet Nam, his poem “A
memory of the following alumni: Patrol” was published in the New York Times. His inurnment
1940-Helen (Galda) Jasa given by Ms. Marie Galda. is at Fort Logan National Cemetery in Denver, CO.
1940-Henry Schultz given by Karen (Fahey) Wilson-1961. 1959-Robert “Bob” Stillmock given by Judith (Henggeler)
1942-John Gomez given by Denny & Judi Koubsky-1961. Spohr-1959 designated for the wrestling mat fund.
1945-Dwight Bancroft given by Jeanne (Bancroft) 1961-Jim Pospisil given by Denny & Judi Koubsky-1961.
Buskirk-1946. 1965-Michael Reed given by William “Bill” Napier-1967.
1945-Frederick Schwalm given by Jean (Snyder) 1965-Richard Slizinski given by Donna Bowdish-1963.
Schwalm-1945. Fred left school to join the Coast Guard. He 1972-Paul Novotny given by Emily (Svoboda)-1946 and
received his GED in 1945. Steven Novotny.
1947-Martha (Smutny) Talmon given by the Riha Family.
1959-Godfrey “Sonny” Calta given by his sisters, Shirley ALUMNI FRIENDS AND RELATIVES
Goodrow-1954 and Carol Reznicek-1955. Sonny played
in the inaugural Shrine Bowl, achieving and still holding JoAnn (Pospichal) Peterson given by Sue Heineman
the longest punt return record. Deemed “Mr. January” in -1956. JoAnn was a SHS History teacher in the 1950s.
the Nebraska Shrine Bowl Anniversary calendar, he was Marguerite Walters given by her husband, Delbert “Bud”
Walters-1953.

REMEMBERING CAROL VAN METRE (1938-2016) by Cara Riggs

Carol Van Metre was a true friend to South Omaha and to the kids of South High. I’m not just
saying that. She loved us, and she would do anything in her power to provide access to our
kids. It wasn’t for sympathy or mis-guided charity. No, it was because she fell in love with the
community. What I really loved about this woman, however, was that she would much rather
hang out at the GI Forum for $1 tacos and beer on a Thursday night or eat South High popcorn
at a South High soccer game, than be sitting at a fancy fundraiser in a stuffy ballroom, anytime.
That’s just how she was. She was my friend. She was our friend.

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