Biographies

Mike Adamy

Updated April 2018

1150 41 Rd

Bellwood, Nebraska 68624

mikeadamy@gmail.com

402-390-0334 Cell

After Aquinas I went to UNL.  Just prior to graduating I began working at Lincoln General Hospital (LGH) doing night collections.  That was the beginning of my hospital career.  I worked at LGH for a few years in accounting then moved on.  I worked as an accountant for Orthopaedic Hospital in Los Angeles, CA, the Marshfield Clinic, in Marshfield, WI, hospitals in Upper Michigan, David City, Blair, NE, and retired from Columbus Community Hospital in Columbus, NE.  (While in CA, Bob Schindler and I golfed almost every weekend.  I sure miss that guy!  He truly loved Aquinas.  He said it was the only place that did anything for him.  He wanted to get his donations up to 3% of his income to Aquinas.  I’d love to see him again!)  In between, I spent several years with HealthAmerica, an HMO, and Mutual of Omaha setting up PPO’s in various states.  These businesses gave me some experience of the “other side” of health care.  I also got to start a new type of company, an insurance company for home repair.  It was fun and educational.  It’s still going in Omaha under the name of Service One, part of People’s Natural Gas.

Roberta and I were married in October, 1994 in Upper Michigan.  I now have three step children, Jon, Lori, and Theresa.  I also have six grandchildren, Stephen, Ciara, Derek, Alayna and the twins, Jack and Julie.  Roberta graduated with a degree in business/accounting from Michigan Tech in Houghton, MI where it snows a lot.  Roberta and her brothers have cabin they built on Huron Bay, Lake Superior, where we spend time each year relaxing, fishing and visiting family and friends.

Roberta and I have a greenhouse and spend most of our time gardening and mowing.  We sold flowers and plants commercially for 3 years while we both worked full time.  Now we just grow for ourselves, the Church and friends.  I’m thrilled to be back at the Farm.  I never thought I’d get to live here again with our lovely little Church just down the road.  I thank God every day for allowing me to do so. And I can’t believe I’m retired!!  What a great thing retirement is, busy, but great!

Roberta and I try to help Aquinas as much as we can and try to make it to events there.  Aquinas gave me many good memories due to the Priests, Nuns, and my classmates.  Yes I felt the hand of Sr. Madeline.  I’m not good at keeping in touch, but the second Saturday breakfasts Tom started are great.  I just wish I could make more of them.  I’m so thankful I was given the gift of living where we do and were able to attend Aquinas

Gary Alt

May 18, 1949—December 10, 1998

The last biography of Gary was written for our 25 year reunion in 1993.  It is as follows:

       Judy and I are the parents of two children.  Ryan is a 17 year old senior at York High School and Kelli is a 14 year old freshman at York. 

       I work with Judy at Air-Process Equipment, Inc. in York.  I enjoy golf and road tripping to York High School activities.

       I have enjoyed the past 25 years and am looking forward to the next 25!

Pauline Augustine Siffring

After high school I went to business school in Omaha.  After graduating, I moved to Lincoln and worked at the Lincoln Regional Center.

Duane and I were married in 1970.  Duane farms and I work at an accounting firm in Columbus.

We have two children—Our daughter Brenda is a registered nurse and works at Midwest Gastrointestinal Clinic in Omaha.  Our son, Dan, is married and has a little girl.  He is a broker at Ameritrade and he also lives in Omaha.

We enjoy spending time with our family, gardening, and cooking.

Aquinas brings back so many memories:  the sit down strike protesting no school spirit, the Sadie Hawkins dance, the Computer dance, Sister Edmina & Sister Madeline, Father Danko & Father Roh.  The morning mass.

Carmie "Bartunek" Kimminau

Spouse’s name (include maiden name if applicable):

 Roy Kimminau

Children’s’ names & spouses (if applicable):

  Tiffany Sidlo  (Adam)

       Tiffany & Adam live in Roseland

  Tami Hentzen (Doug)

       Tami & Doug have two daughters and live in Omaha

       Leah - 2 yrs

       Emily - 6 months

Your job(s):

 Lincoln Telephone Company in Lincoln- 1 year

PayWay / Central Soya - 3 years

 ABC Electric - 3 years

  Home Health Services - 5 years

       Billing Coordinator

  GMO - 14 years

       Membership Coordinator

  US Bank - 2 years

       Personal Banker

  Nebraska Public Power District @ Doniphan, NE - 11 years

       Administrative Assistant for the System Control Manager at Doniphan.  Up until February, I also assisted a Vice President that was based out of the Doniphan office until his recent transfer to Columbus.

Your spouse’s job(s):

  Farmland Industries - 13 years

  Self employed - Kimminau Repair - 23 years

Automotive, trucks, farm equipment, tractor repair, irrigation engines, etc. 

Where have you lived since 1968?:

  Since graduation I have lived in Hastings all but the one year I lived in Lincoln.

Hobbies:

  Spending time with my granddaughters

  Nascar

  Read

  Golf - just learning

Favorite Aquinas memory:

Special accomplishments (yourself, spouse, kids, etc.)

  Tiffany is a 1996 graduate of College of Hair Design in Lincoln and is a practicing hair stylist / barber in Hastings. Her husband Adam works for Norder Supply in Hastings.

  Tami graduated from Doane College in 2000.  She is a sales representative for the Wheels for You magazine in Omaha.  She has been with them for 4 1/2 years. Prior to that she was the Gift Shop Coordinator at Bryan LGH East in Lincoln for 3 1/2 years.  Her husband Doug graduated from UNMC last year and is currently doing his Internal Medicine Residency at UNMC and VA Hospitals in Omaha.

Any other information you wish to share:

  My daughter Tami is married to Tom Hain's nephew.  Now isn't that a small world.

 Nancy Behne Winters

Nancy Behne Winters and husband Gordon live in Lincoln. Nancy is a Physical Therapy Assistant for VA Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care  Systems and Gordon is editorial page editor of the Lincoln Journal  Star. They have a son and daughter, and seven grandchildren (six boys  including a set of twins.)  Nancy and Gordon are pictured to the right.

Pat Behrns

Leo Birkel

Spouse’s name: Betty

Children’s names and spouses: Bonnie married Doug=Racquel and Dustin

                                             Mike married Bobbie=JD, Alex, and Chase

                                              Matt is with Megan=Caine and Leo

                                              Josh is with Brittany=baby due in December 2008

Your job: Letter carrier for 38 years. Retired after stroke on 1-16-2007

Your spouse’s job: CNA-med Aid

Where have you lived since 1968? Seward

Hobbies: watch sports, reading, and walking

Favorite Aquinas memory: graduation

Special accomplishments: umpire for 23 years in softball

Any other information you wish to share: stroke limited me to only do nothing (right side of body doesn’t work very good)

Updated June 7, 2013 by Pat

Leo’s, son, Matt, died in January of 2011.  Their son, Mike & Bobbie adopted Alando.  Joshua is now living at home.

Mary (Birkel) Schoenbein       

Updated April 2018

I retired in May of 2016 following a 44 year career working as a Pediatric Nurse.  I now volunteer one morning a week at Childrens Hospital Colorado where I spent the last 35 years working.  Guess you can’t get rid of me that easy.

My first grandchild was born in February of 2017.  I get to spend a lot of time with little Agnes as I help care for her on a regular basis.

I have a quest to see as many National Parks as possible and so far have visited 15.  Only about 44 to go!!  I love to hike and have been learning to quilt after joining a quilting group at my parish.  We make quilts to donate to various organizations for infants, toddlers and lap quilts for the vets and the elderly. 

I have been given a couple of opportunities to travel this year.  I will be going to the Holyland in June and to Rome in September.  The June trip ends right before the reunion so hopefully I can accomplish both.

Pat Birkel Brown

Spouse:  Kerwin and I were married Sept 17, 1971   It's soon to be 37 years!  Now that's a real accomplishment.  We went to London and Paris for our 35th anniversary.  I would love to do it again.  Especially, if I knew some French.  I never have used my Latin much.

Children:  Seth Thomas (34) and Dawn have a son, Shiloh(3)

Jessie(30) and Carl have a daughter, Maggie(3) and another on the way in Mid Sept.

Both families live close by.  I quit my job to babysit Maggie when the kids built a house 3 miles from us.  Grand kids truly are GRAND and we enjoy them immensely.

 We met, married, and lived in Denver until moving here in Sept of 1973.  13 years ago we built a timber frame home and did much of the woodwork ourselves from recycled barns, corncribs etc.  We haven’t wanted to build even a bird house since.

 I enjoy scrapbooking, card making, and daily activities of having a 3 year old around.  We sort of play school and read a lot.  Everyday things are learning experiences.  Once I take over again when the new baby arrives I will go down to her house to watch them.  My life pattern will be changing again.

 Every once in awhile I will think of how carefree the Aquinas days were and we just didn’t realize it yet.  I still think of Sr. Eugenia at times, and just know she wouldn’t approve of certain sewing methods I've picked up.  Baby room curtains and valances are the next project.

This last question has the potential to get very long, but since it began during the final days of my High School years it has been rather important.  One night after a few beers and passing out, I found myself pregnant.  Why would God allow this to happen to someone who always tried so hard to do right.  Many others have suffered worse consequences from one wrong choice, so why shouldn’t I?  Only God saw the bigger plan.  My Aunt in Colorado needed help with her 2 year old and a newly adopted baby.  It put me in touch with people to help me through the process of adoption when a baby girl was delivered on Valentine's Day of 1969.  Knowing how much joy Sandy had brought to their family, I always prayed my little one would also be that loved.  The sadness never quite went away, but from those circumstances I came to know forgiveness for the biological father and myself.  The grace of God through Jesus Christ came into my heart and I would never again believe in my good works gaining any merit to get me to Heaven.  Ephesians 2:8&9 and Titus 3:5 just make it so plain that the whole work of salvation was done by Jesus death on the cross for us and nothing we would ever be able to do.  No matter how good or pure our works for God seemed to be.  The Bible has increasingly become one of my most cherished possessions.  I would encourage you to look up the above verses.  One day you will remember someone gave you the opportunity to find out about this grace and mercy Jesus wants to share with you too.  How many times will we have to turn our backs to Him?  By Feb 14th of 1990, I had written the letter to the 21-year-old girl, who I now know as Dana, my daughter.  The Lord truly granted me the desire of my heart in getting to meet her and finish out my days in loving her and her family.  She and Barry have 2 children.  Molly(15) and Alex(12).  They live in Nebraska, so we pretty much have and email and phone relationship.

 Others have things I want to read about so I'll close, but I welcome any correspondence. 

Update March 13, 2013:

My husband is finishing up his 4th year in the high school teaching realm and we have yet to get used to summer vacations.  His 36 years welding in a factory on mining trucks allowed us much vacation time to go hunting in the fall.  Many of those years, he worked the mandatory shut down on overtime jobs that needed to be done when few people were around to trip over, so to speak.  We never could understand why people wanted to take vacations when everyone else is out on the highways, at the museums and also wanting motels at the same time.  Not to mention it’s during the heat of the summer.

       I know he would love to retire, retire, but I think he’s hooked on breathing the same air as these active. vibrant teenagers.  There is that satisfaction of a job well done in connecting with some of these kids that so desperately need someone to be patient and have a positive influence in their life.  Quite unlike a welded truck part or section that gets done over and over year by year.  He has spent 8 or 9 years at least teaching welding one night a week at the community college.  It would be nice to see him have time to do some welded yard art for me.  He has had fun working with some of the students from the art department the last 3 years.

Updated June 7, 2013

Since the 40th reunion update our daughter, Jessie & Carl have had 2 more children.  Zachary will be 5 & Adalynn will be 2 in Sept.  Both of them will be 6 when they begin kindergarten.  Maggie just turned 8, so they make a handful on the 3 days a week I continue to babysit them.  Kerwin & I had a fun day making stepping stones with each of the kids, for their Mom’s 35th birthday.  I remember well my kids saying on my 35th, “You’re half of 70 now Mom!”  In Feb of 2014 our son, Seth, will turn 40.   He shares my love of gardening, so he has a huge one.  Shiloh’s cousins love the bounty of fresh berries of all kinds.  Strawberries now & pleasant thoughts of the red & black raspberries, & the blackberries to come.  It has been a real blessing and joy to share all these years in the lives of our children & grandchildren because they live so close.   Many of our friends have immediate families scattered all over the States.  Dana’s family & Trevor (Molly’s boyfriend) met up with all of us in Des Moines last year.  It made for another of those, “happy MOMMA moments.”  God has been so good to us.  I look forward to reading updates on other 68’er’s and pray all who attend have a wonderful 45th reunion.

Jack Carter

Leonard (Len) Chmelka   

Updated April 2018

Currently single (divorced in 2003 after 24 years of marriage)

3 Children -

- Adam, 38 years old, single and working full-time at parish, St. Michael the Archangel in Leawood, Kansas; achieved Eagle Scout in 1998.

- Bethany, 36 years old, married to Brian Hartley, mother of 3 daughters, including twins Corinne and Sasha, and Emerson; working at marketing firm in Kansas City, Missouri; graduate of University of Kansas in Lawrence in 2004.

- Melinda, 34 years old, married to Adam Kerstetter, mother of son Hunter, working at medical lab in Lenexa, Kansas.

I am currently working a contract Benefits Manager job at Lawrence Memorial Hospital in Lawrence, Kansas.  Graduated from University of Nebraska in Lincoln in 1973 with B.A. degree in English & French.  Graduated from University of Nebraska at Omaha in 1977 with MBA degree in Management and Finance.  Lived in Omaha from 1974 to 1992 then lived in Topeka, Kansas from 1992 to 2000.  Moved to Overland Park, Kansas in 2000 and currently live in Olathe, Kansas.

 Member of St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Parish in Leawood, Kansas.  Serve as Sacristan/Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion and teach CCD Confirmation classes.   Served as RCIA sponsor many times.  Have served on the parish Capital Campaign Committee and Sacred Liturgy Committee.  Hobbies include reading, walking, gardening, and searching for treasures at estate sales.

       Favorite Aquinas memory was Sister Madeline's English class.  She brought literature to life and stressed the importance of reading.

Of importance in my life are Catholic faith and personal relationship with Jesus Christ, family, and friends (in that order).

 Marie Cockson Vandenberg

Updated May 2018

Married to Ed Vandenberg (1973) and we moved back to Nebraska in 1998.

Daughter, Kathryn (Vandenberg) Twenter, married to Brady Twenter, lives in Lees Summit, Missouri. They have two children, Ben and Maggie. 

Daughter, Quinn (Vandenberg) Kulik, married to Paul Kulik, they live in Omaha and have one son, Hannes.

I’m looking forward to seeing everyone.

John Coufal

Ron DeWispelare

Isa Diaz-Lapin

A bit of my history and what I have been doing these past 40 years.

I was born in Cuba, and after Castro came to power, my mother sent me to the United States in 1962, due to political reasons.  I came to this country through a program called Operation Pedro Pan, in which thousands of children came to the USA without their parents.  The children where placed in different parts of the country. After a brief period in Lincoln, Nebraska, I went to live at the Hilgers’ in David City. I attended St. Mary’s Elementary, and then on to Aquinas High School.  After graduation in 1968, I moved to Lincoln.  I attended the University of Nebraska, where I received both a Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree, graduating in 1976 with a MA in Educational Psychology.  It sounds more impressive than it really is.

Anyway, after graduation I moved to San Francisco, California, where I lived a few years with my cats, especially Lechusa (the favorite of all).  In 1979, I moved to Miami, Florida where I have been living since.  Here I met my husband, John T. Lappin, originally from Douglaston, New York, and we were married in 1990.  I was always a late bloomer.  I have no children but have many nieces and nephews, and now they have children of their own. So I am now a grandaunt.  I work for Miami-Dade County and have been working there since I moved here; I have had numerous jobs and assignments.  Presently, I am working in collaboration with the courts. I am a Social Worker and assist victims of Domestic Violence get an injunction for their protection, as well as generating referrals for them to other services and anything else they might need.  Needless to say, I am looking forward to 2009, when I will be completing my 30 years of County Service and can retire.  My husband is a computer geek, and is presently working at the Miami-Dade Police Department; however, he is not a police officer.  I like just about anything, but my favorites hobbies are traveling, gardening, camping, listening to music, and going to the beach and taking a nice swim during January or February and thinking of my friends in Nebraska! I have a cat, Cassady, who is 13 years old and a dog, Sasha, who is 10 years old. Cassady lives upstairs and is the king of his realm, while Sasha is the queen of the downstairs and backyard. And never the twain shall meet.

 I have many found memories of the years I spent in David City and at Aquinas.  I have not been able to take the memory lane since my yearbooks were destroyed when Hurricane Andrew came to town.  I still save them but the pages got wet and are all stuck together, I have not been able to throw them away. I was planning on making our reunion, but I will not be able to do so. I hope you all have a great time together and take pictures to share with the rest of us.

If anyone is in the South Florida area, please feel free to call and stop in for a visit.

Isa Diaz-Lappin

8030 SW 185 St.

Cutler Bay  FL  33157

Randy Dolezal

Frank Ekstein

1968-71 studied pre-vet at UNL

1771-75 studied veterinary medicine at Iowa State University. Received d.v.m. May 1975

1975 - present  Mixed animal practice in Ulysses, Ne Last 22 years solo.

Sept. 13, 1980 Married Joan Benes in Dwight, Ne

                     Joan is currently employed at KV Supply in David City in shipping department.

Aug. 6 1987  Son Justin born. He attened St Mary's and Aquinas, graduating in 2006. Currently

                  attending UNL majoring in Computer Engineering.

                  Frank is a lector and church board member at Immaculate Conception in

                  Ulysses. Frank's hobbies include reading, fishing and gardening.

Mike Eller

Jean Eller Shaw

Carm Fiala

After graduating from Sacred Heart College (now Newman University) in Wichita, Kansas, I taught middle school students for three years in Wichita.  Then I moved back to David City when Msgr. Lisko asked me to teach Grades 6-8 Language Arts at St. Mary's Grade School.  In 1977, I came to Aquinas as a high school English and Journalism teacher and have been at Aquinas since then.  At Aquinas High School, I have taught English, Journalism, Photography, Religion, and Psychology.  In the 1980s I helped to design an Aquinas Middle School program and, after getting my administrative degree from Creighton University, became the principal of Aquinas Middle School and assistant principal of Aquinas High School.  Each year I also taught for a portion of the day, usually Language Arts and Religion.  Last year I accepted the position of principal of David City St. Mary's Elementary (PreK-5) and continued as middle school principal, so I'm principal of Grades PreK-8 at Aquinas-St. Mary's Catholic Schools.

As an educator at Aquinas for the past 31 years, my Favorite Aquinas Memories are filled with memories of my teacher/administration time at Aquinas since I'm too old to remember many of the high school events.  Needless to say, I have a great love for Aquinas.  If you would like to know anything about Aquinas in its present day, I could probably answer your questions. I could also give you a tour of the building since I have the keys!

My hobbies are baking, photography, gardening, reading, travel (favorites are Italy and Alaska) and spending time with my 36 nieces and nephews.

JoAnn Fricke Messing

Cindy (Gabel) Treadway

Updated April 2018

Cynthia (Gabel) Treadway

       Dan and I were married in 1969.  He worked in retail and we moved 11 times in 9 years.  We lived in the states of Nebraska, Colorado, South Dakota, Oklahoma, and finally settling in Texas for 43 years.  Dan worked the last 17 years for Red Bull, until his retirement in February of 2017.  I worked in the medical records department of a hospital 4 years, and had a cleaning service for 30 years.

We have a son and three daughters, and 8 grandchildren.  Troy has 3 boys, lives in Rockwall, Texas, and works for Andrews Corporation.  Tammy has a daughter and stepson, lives in Rockwall, Texas, and works for State Farm.  Jennifer has 2 daughters, lives in Forney, Texas, and is an elementary school teacher.  Michelle has a son, lives in San Antonio, Texas, and also is an elementary teacher.  We recently became great-grandparents!

       Dan and I are frequent travelers with our RV, especially upon retirement.  We enjoy kayaking, hiking, and all the family activities.

       I have many fond memories at Aquinas and I’m grateful for the privilege it was to attend Catholic school.

Susan Geiger Hraban

Bob Gillespie

Spouse’s name (include maiden name if applicable):

Jean Eagan

Jean Eagan Gillespie

Childrens' names & spouses (if applicable):

Caitlin

Luke

Your job(s):

Professor Natural Resource and Agriculture

Wenatchee Valley College

Your spouse's job(s):

Secretary and Para-educator Eastmont High School

East Wenatchee WA

Organizes the substitute teachers for High School

Where have you lived since 1968?:

Lincoln Nebraska                        1968 to 1977

Bellwood Nebraska                     1977 to 1978

Shelby Nebraska                       1978 to 1979

Moscow Idaho                             1979 to 1983

Helena Montana                        1983 to 1988

Bozeman Montana                     1988 to 1991

Washington Illinois                      1991 to 1993

Ephrata Washington                   1993 to 1998

East Wenatchee Washington   1998 to present

Hobbies:

Cross country skiing

Mountain biking

Insect and Plant Identification

Guitar

Reading

Hiking

Favorite Aquinas memory:

All the friends and classmates 

Special accomplishments (yourself, spouse, kids, etc.)

Luke sang at Carnegie Hall with the Eastmont Choir last April 2007

Caitlin is taking a trip to Costa Rica to help scientists who are

researching turtles

Jean is presently editor of the Eastmont newsletter

I am beginning a research project to identify and studying the insect

pollinators of native plants of Northcentral Washington 

Ed Greguras

March 2, 1950—October 14, 2015

Ed died of cancer on October 14, 2015.  Ed was the ninth person from the Class of 1968 to pass away.  More information on his death can be found on the page entitled:  “Rest In Peace”.

Pam Grubaugh McCawley

Jerry G. Hain

Spouse’s name (include maiden name if applicable):

Maxine(Swanda)

Childrens' names & spouses (if applicable):

J.Chris Hain, Los Angeles-Realtor former Newspaper reporter

Greg Hain, Los Angeles-Actor and graphic artist

Sherri Lee & Joe Lee, Children, Greta & Miles, Lincoln-daughter owns Lee Floral

Jill Hain, Zurich Switzerland-Traveler,teacher,HR, Psychology Major

Eric Hain, Omaha-University Nebr. Medical Center, Med School

 Your job(s):Business Development Manager

Ollson Associate Consulting, Lincoln, Ne.

Your spouse's job(s):Antique Dealer,former teacher, dental assistant

Where have you lived since 1968?:Wahoo since 1971

Hobbies: I would need more pages but this is a start

Golf, fishing, traveling, antiques, toy collecting, History,grandchildren

Favorite Aquinas memory:Mr. Menke's Business Classes-seems like those were the only ones I really paid any attention to.

Special accomplishments (yourself, spouse, kids, etc.)

Got 5 kids through college

Former CEO/President JEO Consulting Group(35 years)

Coached youth basketball for 20 years-even won a few games

Acolyte in St Wenceslaus Church in Wahoo

Commencement speaker-SECC

Tom Hain

Spouse’s name:  Marilyn

Children:  Carrie Nesbitt (Jeremy), Stacey Troxell (Theron) and Amy Schroeder (Travis)

                   6 grandkids (3 boys and 3 girls) with one on the way at the end of July

Your jobs:  34 years in education (currently 27 years as elementary principal)

                          Currently K-6 principal in Hershey

Your spouse’s jobs:   26.5 years in education (special education and kindergarten)

                                       Currently K-5 special education teacher in North Platte

Where have you lived since 1968:  7 years in Columbus

                                                                   6 years in Stromsburg

                                                                   19 years in Imperial

                                                                   3 years (so far) in North Platte

Hobbies:  golf, woodworking, stained glass, eating out

Favorite Aquinas memory:  Let’s just say there were a lot of great memories

Special accomplishments:  The good Lord has been very generous over the years.  I have been given and involved in many great events and activities.

Bob Havlovic

Deceased

March 17, 1950-July 10, 2018

Bob had his reasons for not attending reunions—family or class.  Ten days after our 50th reunion Bob laid on the couch and failed to answer the call to supper.

Ellen Havlovic Jirovsky

Written:  April 2018

Ellen Havlovic, Aquinas Class of 1968

Post High School:  Attended Patricia Stevens Career College in Fashion Merchandising, a one-year business school; worked at Herzbergs Dept. Store part-time; next Arthur Murray Dance Studio two years, during this time traveling for the studio around the U.S.  Attended UN-L, graduated 1975 with degree in Physical Education, minor in Biology.  While at UN-L, started Women’s Rowing Team in 1972.  Co-captain, rowed in state crew regattas in several states—KS, IA, OK, & Wisconsin. Ellen served one year as a Page in the Nebraska State Legislature, 1972.  In 1975 taught Physical Education at St. Mary’s & Aquinas before marriage to Carl Jirovsky, Civil Engineer, graduate of UN-L, moving from KS Dept. of Roads to Hughes Bros., Inc., in Seward, Nebraska, for the next 40 years.  Carl is a lifelong farmer, also, raising crops and beef cattle.  Carl & Ellen purchased farmland east of Seward, where they still live and farm.  Ellen continued teaching swimming lessons at Milford, NE., later Seward, NE., teaching Lifeguarding while working at Seward Dowding Pool for 12 years.  During this time, Ellen dispatched for Seward County 9-1-1 for 9 years, night shift.  Ellen & Carl raised three children, all attending UN-L before graduate schools elsewhere:  Fr. Lee Jirovsky, Priest of Diocese of Lincoln, now Asst. C.A.O. of Pius X High School in Lincoln, NE.; Dr. Lynn (Nate) Kolterman, DVM, owner of The Clocktower Animal Clinic in Lincoln; and Maj. Aaron (Aoy) Jirovsky, USMC, currently at Edwards AFB in California.  Ellen & Carl have 5 grandchildren: Carly (8) and Michael (6) & Maren (1) Kolterman, and Alycia (2) & Austin (9 mos.) Jirovsky.  Ellen continues to serve on the board of the Lincoln Diocesan Council of Catholic Women since 2010, before this was active in York Deanery and still active at St. Vincent de Paul Church in Seward, in P.C.C.W. and Stewardship Committee, and Parish Council.  Carl is an acolyte and usher, and member of the Knights of Columbus.  Ellen & Carl are not retired, just tired.

Mary Jane Helgoth McCawley

Spouse’s name (include maiden name if applicable):Mike

Childrens' names & spouses (if applicable):

Megan Lynn Boever, deceased April 17, 2006.  After a tough 20 month fight with Inflammatory Breast Cancer that had spread to her brain, lungs, spine and ribs, Megan peacefully left us for her eternal life in heaven.  She was my best friend, a talented athlete, a wife, a mother, an Occupational Therapist and a peace maker.  She has left us four grandchildren, two girls and two boys.  Lucy, the eldest looks just like her and has her athletic skill.  Emma, the second has her wit.  Joseph, the third, has her sensitivity and Paul, the baby, has her magnetic personality. 

Kyle McCawley is a single Mechanical Engineer living in Kansas City.  He works for Larkin Aquatics and designs water parks.  He is a swimmer, biker and marathon runner.

Andrew McCawley is a single Broadcast Meteorologist for KMEG in Sioux City, Iowa.  Andrew was a kicker in College for Valparaiso University and UNO, coached by Mr. Pat Behrens. 

Your job(s): I am the section leader for the Landscape Architect section at HDR Architecture,Omaha.  I have lucky enough to design the Omaha Botanical Gardens and many Hospital sites throughout the nation. 

Your spouse's job(s): Mike is the state's Geologist for Nebraska.

Where have you lived since 1968?: We have lived in Anniston, Alabama; Aschenberg, Germany; Lincoln; Columbus; Omaha; St. Paul, MN and back to Omaha.

Hobbies: Gardening for our Church and our own yard. 

Favorite Aquinas memory: Being Prom Queen with King Tom!

Special accomplishments (yourself, spouse, kids, etc.) Having a daughter that is a saint.  Megan died with such grace and character, she was an inspiration to many and a reminder of what is really important.....faith and family.

Barb Hilger Bindenagle

died—December 17, 2009

       Barb was the fourth student from the Class of 1968 to pass away.

Barbara Jean Hilger Bindenagel was born on June 9, 1950 in David City, NE. She was the 4th child of 10 born to Alfred & Dorothy Hilger. Barb graduated from Aquinas High School in 1968 and worked as a telephone operator in Lincoln, NE. She moved back to David City where she worked for a number of years at the First National Bank. She also held other part-time positions as well as helping her father in his construction business doing contracts and wood finishing. Barb moved to Columbus, NE where she worked for 3 years at Middle State Manufacturing until her son, Sean, was born. She and Sean moved to Grand Island where she was the office manager for Cornhusker Popcorn Co. for 4 years. It was here she met her husband, Leon Bindenagel. After their marriage, Barb worked as Leon’s office manager & bookkeeper until they retired. However, Barb’s favorite job/hobby was raising reindeer for 11 years on their farm in Dannebrog. Barb also wrote articles for different wildlife magazines about raising reindeer and was featured on America’s Favorite Pets. Barb & Leon retired to Mountain Home, AR in 2006. Leon passed away in 2008. Barb fought cancer courageously for 3 years before passing away on December 17 surrounded by her family.

Barb is survived by her son and spouse, Sean & Becky Kopecky and granddaughter Taylor; siblings and spouses, Ron & Marlene Hilger, Colleen Hilger, Sandy & Stacy Michaels, Tim & Patty Hilger, Tom & Diane Hilger, Alfred ‘Shorty’ Jr. & Cindy Hilger, Kenny & Jackie Hilger, Laurie & John McCawley, Jeanne & Don Karpisek and many Nieces & Nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents & husband.

John Hilger

After graduation from UNL in Business , worked with Safeway Stores  for 10 years (until they folded)  and has worked for Pepsi Cola since then, for the last 26 years, first in sales management and now running Lincoln Pepsi Cola electronics.

Wife;  Avis (Mulder) Hilger

Working as nurse at Bryan/LGH Hospital in Lincoln for 33 yrs now. We have been married for 32 years.

 Son: Ryan Tyler Hilger. 26 yrs old. Graduated UNL with degree in analytical Chemistry and is in 4th year at Univ. of Wisconsin, Madison hoping soon to have acquired his doctorate in Analytical Chemistry.

 Son: Paul Eric Hilger 24 yrs old. Has just finished 6 years with the US Navy, where after attending nuclear power schooling in South Carolina was abroad on the submarine USS Greenville. Now he is enrolled at UNL and planning to get a degree in electrical engineering.

 Daughter: Christina Marie Hilger 19 yrs old has finished one year at UNL toward her degree to become a K-12 grade art teacher.

Hobbies:  Motorcycle traveling, collecting and restoring, now ancient (late 60"s) , honda motor cycles and putting them in bike shows, fishing,

 High school memories: cruising around town in the old Rambler,  pep rallies,  sock hops,  avoiding St.Madaline ( did get slapped).

Russ Hilger

August 22, 1950-January 17, 2025

Russ was the 23rd ‘68er to pass away.  Leaving 74 of us.  Information on his death is listed on the page entitled “Rest In Peace”

Mike Hiller

July 24, 1949-February 2, 2011

Mike was the seventh ‘68er to pass away.  Information on his death is listed on the page entitled “Rest In Peace”

Ron Hoffbauer

Barb Homan Oberg

Updated April 2018

Barb Homan Oberg

Husband Don

Don and I both went to UNL, he lived in Abel and I lived in Sandoz. That was our beginning. We both graduated from UNL with B.S. degrees. We were married in 1972 the day after Don graduated. We started our married life in Lincoln. Our oldest son (Jeff) was born there. We lived in Lincoln for 2 years and Don had an opportunity to farm in Axtell Nebraska. We moved on Valentines Day.  Our 2nd child was born in Minden (Kristin). Two years later along came number 3 (Brad) also born in Minden. We Farmed for 20 years. I taught in Axtell in Family and Consumer Science. We moved from our farm to Kearney on Valentines Day. I went back to school at UNK and received my Masters in school counseling. I then moved into that position in Axtell. Don started a new career as an Insurance Adjuster for a small company in Axtell. Eventually we built a home in Kearney and moved into it on Valentines Day. This seemed like a re-occurring theme. We hope that we have moved for the last time.

I retired from counseling in 2016 and am enjoying retirement. I spend lots of time going to school activities for our 10 grand kids. Jeff and Shilo have 3 kids , Kris and J.R. have 4, Brad and Sami have 3. Don is still working but manages to join me in following the kids most of the time. We have kids in the following schools, UNO, Kearney Catholic, Shelton, Ravenna, Centura and Waverly and two Pre-K in day care in Waverly. We still have lots of events yet to come. Hopefully Don will decide to retire once we are going to more events in Waverly. It is a bit further to drive.

We have done a little traveling. Don was involved with the Transplant Games. That took us to multiple states to compete. Don was able to keep his transplanted kidney for 21 years. We were very fortunate to have received that wonderful gift of life.  Other traveling events, New York to visit my brother Jerry a number of times. We  took a few trips with siblings the last one was to the east coast and we traveled and visited many sites along the way. Our traveling days are very restricted now because Don lost his kidney function 2 years ago. We have been waiting for 2 years for a new transplant. Luckily we live about a block from the dialysis unit in Kearney. So the last Valentine's Day move was a blessing in disguise. 

Hobbies include coffee with other retired friends, quilting, reading, plays and gardening. Most recently fishing with Don. He holds the fishing pole and I hold a book. We are both happy. Our favorite activity is time spent with family and friends. Diane Tritt continues to be a lifelong friend. We can always pick up where we left off. It usually includes laughter, laughing until we cry and crying until we laugh. It's the best medicine out there. I was also happy to get to see Carol Sliva last summer. That about wraps up old high school friends that I have recently seen. Either no one comes to Kearney or I don't recognize you. It couldn't be you don't recognize me, or could it? We hope we can come to the reunion. If we don't make it, have a great time.

Kathy Hotovy Wickert

Spouse name:  Don Wickert

Children:  Sarah, 27; Mary 25; Ann 20; Amanda 13. 

My job:  Medical transcriptionist for Alegent Health since 1984. 

Don's job:  Working in material handling business as electronic technician for approximately 37 years.  Works out at our farm near Linwood. 

Where lived:  I came to Omaha right after high school to attend Creighton University and never left!

Hobbies:  Love reading.  Used to sew a lot.  Some gardening. 

Favorite Aquinas memory:  Watching our football team beat a Class A team at Burke High (I think we won 21-0 with Gary Alt performing greatly); observing Sr. Madeline read her books upside down (because she could read so fast, she would sometimes invert the books); trying to understand senior math with Mr. McNulty(?) as he attempted to explain the "new math" of sets and subsets while inevitably digressing to a discussion of the football team and latest game; having a lead in a one-act pay with my friend, Ron Jirovsky (God bless his soul); wishing I could take a shop class (I really did want to learn to be handy with tools, etc). 

SUMMARY:  After high school, I came to Omaha and attended Creighton University for 2 years then quit to join the work force.  I worked multiple jobs and then went back to school, this time to UNO, to get my degree in physical education.  I taught 2 years at St Philip Neri grade school in Omaha.  I got married in the summer of 1979, in between the 1st and 2nd year of teaching.  After our first daughter was born, I quit teaching and stayed home for about 4 years.  When our second daughter was almost 2 years old, I began working for Bergan Mercy Hospital (which later became part of Alegent Healthy system) in 1984 and have been a medical transcriptionist since that time.  At present, I work out of my home and have done so for many years.  It was and is a very good job that allows me time with family with flexible hours, and working from my house. 

My husband and I have a farm near Linwood with a home on it that is our weekend resort!  We actually thought we might move there at one time but that did not materialize.  So, we are still in Omaha. 

I thank God daily for what he has done for me and my family, and for his love for everyone.  May He bless us our class in a special way! 

Nick Hotovy 

Written April 2018:

My wife Kathy and I still live on the farm since 1973. Retirement is in the near future! We enjoy having all our kids and grandkids back in David City. Erin, Melissa, Ainsley and Addison, Tori, Jason, Keegan, Krae and Kasen, Kevin,

Crystal, Kenadi and Eli, all keep us busy.

Grandkids attend St. Mary's and Aquinas which we are proud of.

We have been blessed with a great family!

Arn Hottovy

Written April 2018

Arnold Hottovy

Lincoln, Nebraska

Married to Kathy a Treatment Nurse with Lincoln Public Schools in Lincoln, NE.

Three children:

Tyler is the Principal at Westbrook Elementary School in the Westside School District, Omaha, NE. Tyler’s wife is Elaine and they have two children, Sydney and Ben.

Scott is a Professor in the Department of Mathematics at the Naval Academy in Annapolis, MD. Scott’s wife is Anna and they have two children, Ella and Victoria.

Heather lives in Lincoln and is a supervisor in the Accounting Department at Nelnet.

       After high school I went to Southeast Community College in Milford, Ne. From 1970 to 1972 I was on active duty in the U.S. Navy and served one tour of duty off the cost of Vietnam on an aircraft carrier. After I was discharged from the Navy I worked At HWS Consulting (Civil Engineering Consulting Group) in Lincoln for about three years before venturing in a consulting partnership with two of my cousins. From 1981 to 1986 I work with another consulting firm in Grand Junction, CO. In 1986 we moved back to Lincoln and worked for HWS again. I have been with HWS (now Benesch) until present designing and construction many airport projects. I worked full time at Benesch until April 2018 when I reduced hours to 24 a week. I hope to retire in 2019.

       We are active in Cathedral of the Risen Christ parish in Lincoln. I served as an acolyte for about 15 years, member of the Knights of Columbus and take communion to the homebound. I belong to the Lincoln American Legion. I enjoy riding my bike and have been on Nebraska tours for the last several years. I have a small hop growing operation with two friends and hope to make some money someday.

My favorite memory of Aquinas is my junior and senior years playing baseball. We mainly coached ourselves as Coach Bornschlegl was coaching track and coached baseball after track practice and for games. I think we only had four games my senior year.

       My best life lesson from Aquinas is to put my best effort into whatever I do. I was not a good student in high school and wish I would have been more involved.

       I enjoy visiting with classmates and catching up when we meet for the 68er breakfasts.

Tom Hottovy

Updated:  December 2022

Much to the amazement of my teachers, I was a 1968  graduate of Aquinas High School in David City.  Much to the amazement of my college professors (especially my Square and Ballroom Dance teacher), I graduated from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in May of 1973 with majors and teaching endorsements in math and physical education.

Much to the amazement of anyone who knew me, I landed a job teaching math and P.E. at Adams High School in Adams, Nebraska.  Much to my amazement, I was hired back to teach a second year at Adams.  I planned to quit teaching but due to a patient superintendent and two friends who got me drunk, I told them all I would go one more year.  I concluded my career in 2015 teaching 41 years at Adams/Freeman High School and one year at Mickle Middle School in Lincoln.

During that span I met a band teacher at Adams, Susan Matthies from Blair, Nebraska.  Much to the amazement of my Mother, I married that girl in 1984, about 10 months after I met her.  She taught instrumental music at Adams for a total of 11 years before moving on to teach 22 years at Irving Middle School in Lincoln.

Along the way, we raised three girls:  Sara (born in 1986), Melissa (1989) and Lindsay (1995).

Sara went to St. Olaf College in Northfield, Minnesota. She still lives in Minnesota as a personal trainer and is married to a math teacher and coach, Anson Opara.  They have one daughter, Ruby Grace Opara born in March of 2021.

Melissa went to Creighton University in Omaha.  She still lives in Omaha and works managing a physical therapy clinic and as a physical therapy assistant.  Melissa is married to Kevin Zientarski, a business communication guy who works from home.  In April of 2022, Henry Thomas Zientarski was born.  

Lindsay went to Loras College in Dubuque, Iowa and still lives in Iowa.  Lindsay is in public relations working from home in Pella, Iowa.  She married Dustin Dawson, who is a video man at Muskol Lighting in Oskaloosa.  Lindsay and Dustin are parents of Finnley Collin Dawson born on July 3, 2023.  Finn is a sixth generation born on July 3rd going back to his Great-Great-Great Grandfather born July 3, 1861.

Susan retired from teaching in 2016 and now runs a quilting business--Forest Acres Custom Quilting--from home.

       I have been very fortunate not only since 1968, but throughout my life, especially the four years at Aquinas.  I have been blessed with a great family and a good group of friends, many of whom are from the Aquinas class of 1968.  Thank you all for everything.

Greg Hraban

Wilma Hrnicek 

Ginger Hutt Burch

Mark Ingwersen 

Deceased

October 25, 1949-January 18, 2019

Mark made it to George’s Cabin the night before our 50-year reunion despite desperately fight cancer.  The following year, cancer won.

Shirley Jakub Masek

Written April 2018

Spouse:  Wayne Masek, transportation planner at Nebraska Department of Transportation

Children: 

Jerad—electrician in Lincoln, NE

Justin—sales in Kalispell, MT

Kevin—ER doctor in San Mateo, CA.

Kyle—project manager for a mechanical contractor in Kansas, City, MO

Two Grandsons

       After graduating from Aquinas, I went to the Lincoln School of Commerce where I graduated from the executive secretary program.  I worked for a wholesale electrical distributor until the birth of our first son, Jerad.  I then became a stay-at-home Mother as we increased our family with three more sons.  At that point, I was very busy running the boys to various sporting events while also doing daycare.  In 1992, I went back to work at Metromail, which later changed its name to Experian.  I worked in the accounting department until my retirement last year.

       I enjoy spending my time by reading, bowling, yoga, traveling, and following UNL sports and the KC royals.  We were fortunate to be at both of Nebraska’s volleyball championships in 2015 in Omaha and in 2017 in Kansas City.

Joan Janicek Blessing

Written April 2, 2018

After graduation, I worked the summer at the Credit Bureau in Columbus, NE.  That October I enrolled in the medical secretarial course at the Lincoln School of Commerce.  I graduated in June of 1969 and began working for Pathology Medical Services in Lincoln and was a full-time secretary there while taking some evening courses at UN-L.  In December of 1976, I moved to Ann Arbor, MI, and worked in the pathology department at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital while attending the University of Michigan.  After earning a BA in English literature and graduating with honors in 1982, I married Gary Blessing of Indiana who had just graduated from the University of Michigan Department of Engineering.  We moved to Norwich, CT, where Gary began working at the Electric Boat Division of General Dynamics in Groton, CT.  I took a job at Lawrence and Memorial Hospital as office manager in the pathology department, in New London, CT.  In 2000, we built a home in North Stonington, CT.  And 34 years later, we both retired (in 2016).  Gary and I will be celebrating our 36th wedding anniversary in May of this year.

Julie Jelinek Hawkins

Ron Jirovsky

December 26, 1949 – March 10, 1990

Ron was the first ‘68er to pass away in 1990.  Information on his death is listed on the page entitled “Rest In Peace”

Stanley Karel

Jim Karpisek

Jim Kearney

Updated April 2018

When we moved to Auburn in 1976 little did we know we would spend the next 40+ years here.  I retired in '08 from a career of teaching, coaching and athletic administration at Auburn high school.  Since then, I have worked as an adjunct instructor in history at Peru State College. I also supervise student teachers.

Connie recently retired from Peru State, having worked 41 years in the President's office. She now works part time at an antique/craft store in Nebraska City.

We have three sons, each of which are UNL graduates:  Justyn is the Director of Production for Charleston Homes in Omaha. He and his wife Becky have three children: Coyer (5), Teagan (3) and Nyla (5 months).  Bryan is  part owner and Production Manager for BD Construction in Columbus. He and Carrie have three kids: Bodee (6), Lucy (4) and Ruby (15 months).  Aaryn is the youngest. He is the Director of Football Recruiting at Notre Dame University. Needless to say we are huge Irish fans. He is single.

We keep busy being grandparents and enjoy some travel. We look forward to the start of each college football season.  I do manage to leave time for fishing, gardening, and a few rounds of golf.

Tom Kopecky

Barb Kopetzky Ramaekers.

I’ve lived in Columbus NE. for the biggest part of the last 40 years. In spring of ’08 I celebrated m y 42nd year of owning and operating Barb’s School Of Dance. And am now blessed to co-direct with my daughter Desiree.

In August I’ll be married to husband Vern 7 years. Together we have 4 children and 9 grand children: Jesse Ingwersen, wife Wendy, and kids Evie, Allie and Jacob. Daughter Desiree Ingwersen Johnson, husband Ben and triplets (yes, spotaneouse triplets! But that’s a whole other book! Their names are Jed, Diadra, and Aysha. Son Shannon Ramaekers, wife Angie and kids Melissa, Blake, and Grant. And daughter Maureen Ramaekers. We love being grandparents!

Vern is department manager at HyVee in Columbus.  Along with my Dance Studio I’m also co-owner of First Position Dance Shoppe. You guessed it - selling dance supplies.

We enjoy getting together with our kids and grandkids.  With 9 grandkids ages 2 to 12 we put on quite a circus! Vern and I love to travel when NOT working.  We’ll be going on a cruise in July.  I think being Nebraskans makes us awestruck cruisers.  We love it.

Going down memory lane for the last forty years would take pages.  The most important things to me have been to make life count in time spent serving people, family, and church.  Time truly did seem to go fast. I hope all of you have much to be thankful for.

Gerald Kosch

Jackie Kosch Martens

Greetings to all of my classmates;

It’s hard to tell about the last 40 years of my life without writing pages of information, so I will just give you the “condensed version”.

My husband, Tom, and I have recently celebrated our 40th wedding anniversary! Tom and I have 3 grown children and 10 grandchildren…that’s right 10!  We enjoy all of the grandchildren very much and have fun going to their school activities and sporting events.  We are very proud of all of our children and grandchildren.

We have lived in Columbus, Nebraska our entire married life and for the past 27 years have lived on an acreage near Columbus.

As of last August, I am “Retired”.  Because of health problems, I have had to give up my life long career of serving my dedicated customers in Columbus’s leading restaurants.  I miss my customers, but don’t miss the hard work!  Tom still works as a Realtor, property manager and County Supervisor.

For fun and relaxation, Tom and I have enjoyed traveling to  Western events around the country (when gas was cheap!).  We are also doing research for a future book on Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show.

For the last 10 years, we have put on a “Wild West” party for our grandchildren and their friends.  This is also our annual family gathering.  We do the 2 day event over Labor Day weekend.  Our acreage has become “The Wild West” with trading post, shooting gallery, jail, fort, Indian camp and much more.  During the 2 days, we play pioneer games, ride horses, have shooting, archery and tomahawk competitions and eat pioneer food cooked over the campfire!  The grandkids have a great time and look forward to the party all year long.  I am bringing “pictures” so be prepared for the show!

Tom and I have also done “the artist thing” on and off over the past 40 years.  We both have worked in different medias, my specialty being in pottery and Tom’s in sculpture.  Tom is now into his “poetry period”.  He thinks his poems are good (they sound better after a few beers!).

Since my retirement, I have acquired a new “best friend”.  His name is Dillon and he is my 6 year old Sheltie dog.   Dillon and I are currently in training to do pet therapy.  When he is certified, we will be visiting nursing homes on a regular basis as therapy for the residents there.  Dillon and I are looking forward to that.

I could go on and on, but will save the rest for “The Reunion”.  I can’t wait to see you all again and hear your stories!

Sincerely,

Jackie (Kosch) Martens

Ken Kotera

David Krafka

Kenneth Kreizinger 

Lou Ann Lux Saighman

Written:  April 2018

My husband, Alan, and I have been married 14 years. We have 9 "perfect" grandchildren whom I enjoy to no end!  They range in age from 15 to 9 and have kept life fun and interesting. Who says teenagers aren't the best to be around?  Maybe I just never grew up as we really enjoy our time together.  Five live in the KC area, two are in Omaha, and two live in Virginia as their Dad works in DC.

After a long career at UNL, I graduated with a BS in Education, then taught at St. Mary's in Lincoln for 8 years.  Needing to have a little more financial security, I moved to Olathe, KS and taught for 15 years in the Blue Valley School District in grades 2 - 5.  During this time, I also worked part time at Kohls to pay off my "be your own boss" idea of being successful with my sister.  Isn't life full of interesting experiences!!!  I certainly learned that operating on impulse in not always the way to go.  Next it was on to Blue Springs, Missouri where I worked in Special Education for 9 years.  Talk about neat kids with beautiful God given talents; what precious people! 

I retired in 2014, but still sub in Special Ed.  I never really thought of myself as a preschool person, but I do quite a bit of subbing in a particular preschool special needs program and absolutely love it!  I attend Bible Study Wednesday morning and volunteer at Rachel House, a Christ-centered pregnancy resource center, on Thursday.  I attend every grandchild event I can; hurray for retirement!  I enjoy tending to my flowers all summer long, walking, reading, and spending time with friends.  Once a year Alan attends a water treatment convention and I tag along.  It is in different a different city every year,  which I really enjoy.  I have gotten to know quite a few of the wives, so it is like a yearly family reunion for me.  God has blessed me greatly over the last 50 years (has it really been 50 years?  I remember when my Dad went to his 50 year reunion! and I am thankful for His never changing love.

Sharon Martin Miriovsky

We married in 1972 and have two children.

Children: 

Susan - married Regan Hennis in 2001, they live in Bloomington-Normal, IL.

David - married Julie McBroom in 2003.  They have three daughters - Lauren who just turned 3, and twins Kate and Ellen who are 19 months. They live in Buffalo, MN.

Jobs: 

Mike is a Family Practice Physician with McFarland Clinic and has practiced in Marshalltown for 30 years.

Share  - an elementary teacher who is currently substitute teaching.  I taught in our Catholic school for sixteen years and three years ago made the decision to just sub.

Since 1968: 

Mike attended the University of Nebraska for three years, then Nebraska Medical School, graduating in 1975.  He did a three year Family Practice Residency in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, then joined a practice in Marshalltown.

Share graduated from the University of Nebraska in 1972, taught in Bellevue, NE for three years, then Linn-Mar Schools in Marion, Iowa for one year.  I quit teaching when our children were born, then started subbing when they started school and then taught here in Marshalltown for 16 years.

Hobbies:  We both like to golf, ride bikes, exercise, and read.  We love to spend time with our granddaughters (and our kids)!

Share updated their grandchildren count on June 10, 2013:

Dave and Julie have 4:  Lauren is 8, Kate and Ellen are 6, and Will is 3.  Susan and Regan have one: Clare is 4 and we love to spend time with our grandchildren (not just granddaughters).

Janet Matulka Miller

August 15, 1950-October 28, 2010

Janet was the fifth ‘68er to pass away in 2010.  Information on her death is listed on the page entitled “Rest In Peace”

Below is a biography Janet sent in March of 1998, before our 30 year reunion:

       We just moved to Texas last year.  My husband and I are ordained ministers and right now we are ministering in a small mission.

       Our oldest son was just recently in a motorcycle accident and has recovered through much prayer.  My middle son just got a part-time job at a grocery store.  Our youngest is in the 8th grade. 

       I am managing the home front, trying to keep everyone’s schedules.

Tom McCawley  

John Messing

Written:  April 2018

After graduation I had started working in a factory in Columbus until I enlisted in the US Air Force.  I was in for a short time (19 months) and let go on a medical discharge in the fall of 1970. I returned to my former job in Columbus and that is where JoAnn got a job and we started dating. Nine months later we were married on September 11, 1971.

       We have four daughters, Janette (1972) has one son, in his 20"s.  Janae, (1974) married Toby Heminghaus, lives in Lavista and have one son and one daughter in there 20"s.  Janeen (1976), has triplet girls, 12 years old, and livesin York.  Jenise (1977) married Kyle Sundberg and lives in Stromsburg with one boy 12 years old, two girls 11 and 5.  We have two sons, Jeffery (1979) married to Tawnya Zeblotney, with three children, one boy in his 20’s, and two girls 14 and 12 and live at Merrit Island Florida.  Joey who was born in 1984 was our special child, he opened a whole new outlook on life.  He is mentally and physically handicapped, and lives with us 24/7. He has a day service that works with him five days a week.

       I worked in the factory for five years, then worked at a grain facility for one year and then worked for a lumber yard for 10 years.  After that I got involved in farming in 1986 until the present. I semi-retired in 2012 just to stay out of trouble.  I even went as far as building a golf course in my pasture and operated for 5 years until we had a fire in the club house over the winter and it was a setback.

       My hobbies and entertainment:  I love to hunt and fish, play some golf, go camping and of course the main activity is attending grandchildren’s events.

Carol Meysenburg Johnson

Spouses name: Hugh Johnson

Childrens’ names & spouses (if applicable):

 Shannon Holland

Heather and Tom Anschutz

 Johann Johnson

 Shaunna Brink

Your job(s): Reading Coordinator/Assessor at Boys Town Teacher

Your spouse’s job(s): Music Teacher and Professional Musician

Where have you lived since 1968?: Vallejo, CA, Idaho Falls, ID, San Diego, CA, Long Beach, CA, Lincoln, NE, Omaha, NE

Hobbies: gardening, reading, swimming, boating, traveling

Favorite Aquinas memory: playing the drums and marching in the band visiting in the halls between classes and after lunch

Special accomplishments (yourself, spouse, kids, etc.)

Myself: Bachelors Degree in Elementry/Early Childhood ED; Masters in Special Ed/BD

Co-author of Effective Study Strategies for Every Classroom

Husband: Leader of his own band for more than 27 years.  Accomplished musician and Orchestra teacher/retired Millard Public Schools, now teaching at Omaha North High

Heather: Attorney at Kutak Rock

Tom  : Attorney at Berens and Tate, P.C.

Johann : #1 National Sales Rep for CUTO Cutlery; Musician

Shaunna: Senior at Burke; Keeping me on my toes

Any other information you wish to share: My favorite thing to do is travel. To walk where Jesus walked is truly an experience.

John Miratsky  

John Miriovsky  

Mike Miriovsky  

See Share Martin Miriovsky

Dan Nantkes

Spouse’s name: Stephanie Nantes

 Children’s names & spouses:

Danielle, married to Tom Conrad.  They live in Lincoln, with their children, Caroline and Will.  Danielle is a state senator for LD#46, while Tom owes and operates Heartland Optical. Their children keep them going with ball games, as they coach many of the teams.

 Ross, is married to Jennifer, nee: Odovdy.  They live in rural Staplehurst, with two daughters, Josey and Blakeley. Both girls enjoy sports and raising animals for 4-H.  Ross is an Agronomist for Brainard, Frontier Co-op.  Jenn is a vision teacher for many school districts.

 I have 4 grandchildren with tons of ball games to attend, ages 11-7.

Your job(s):

1968 to 1972-U.S. Navy.  My deployment was to Hawaii and Viet Nam.  After the service I attended and graduated from: Southeast Community College ‘74.

’72-’80- Seward Propane 

’80-’14- Seward County Sherriff’s Office as a Deputy.  Retired from there.

Your spouse’s job(s):

Bee School from ’83-’91

LPS (’91-’18), retired and UNK (’08-’11) as an educator.

Stephanie is still teaching for Lincoln Literacy, and helps plan class for OLLI, for the University of Nebraska.

We live north of Seward for the last 46 years, in a country schoolhouse.

Hobbies: We all love to fish and go all over doing it.  Winter, spring, summer, fall…we fish.

My favorite thing is being with the kids and going on family vacations.  We have taken the whole clan to several places, all involving the ocean.

Chris (Nekl) Scholz

Spouse’s name (include maiden name if applicable):  Ken Scholz

Childrens’ names & spouses (if applicable):  Dusty (he is 35)  Kyle (he is

32)  Keri (she is 31) and married to Brian 3 years.  and Tim (who is 28)  We

are so very lucky to have all the kids live in the Kansas City area.  None

of our boys are married yet but 2 of them are getting close.  As of right

now we have no grandchildren.

Your job(s):  CSR at Platte Valley Bank

Your spouse’s job(s):Retired from Americo Life Insurance Company

Where have you lived since 1968?:  We lived in Duncan Nebraska for the first

5 years of our marriage.  Ken took a job in Washington State and we were out

there for about a year.  We then spent several years in Millard Nebraska.

(I was so happy to be back in the midwest)  It was to hard to be away from

the family.  We moved down to Kansas City 15 years ago and I imagine this

will be it.  However, Ken bought a house to fix up and sell, and in the

meantime, we fell in love with it, so we will be moving later this summer.

It's keeping us pretty busy.

Hobbies: I recently tried my hand at scrapbooking but didn't realize I had

so may pictures.  It takes quite a bit of time and now that we are working

over at the house, I guess my new hobby is cleaning and painting....I really

do enjoy yard work and landscaping and have so many ideas for the new place.

My favorite thing is being with the kids.  (They are all coming over today

to put up siding)  Since my Mom passed away I don't get back to Nebr very

often, however Dad and one of my brothers are still on the farm.

Favorite Aquinas memory:  I don't know if this qualifies as a special

memory, but do you all remember the "Slam books" where you answered

questions and made comments, and tried not to get caught writing in them

during class????

Special accomplishments (yourself, spouse, kids, etc.)  I think just raising

and getting 4 kids through college is quite and accomplishment.  Otherwise,

my life is pretty quiet.  I go to work every day....not ready to retire yet.

I did become more involved with our Parish and just ending a 2 year

commitment as the Secertary of out Altar and Rosary Society.  I sure have

made alot of new friends there.  The highlite of my summer will be our

family reunion.  My one sister lives in South Carolina, so I only get to see

her about once a year, so we try to get the whole family together then.

Unfortunatly, I will not be able to attend the class reunion, but I am

looking forward to reading the updates on the rest of the class.

Vernon Nicholas

Bob Palensky

September 25, 1950—June 26, 1998

Bob was the second one in our class to pass away.  More information on his death may be found on the page entitled:  “Rest In Peace”.  

Connie Patocka Gaskill

George Pekarek 

Spouse : Rose Nicolas graduated from Rising City in 69'

Kids - Jaci 34, Jodi 30 engagaed to Corey Hibbert, Jenee' 29 married to

Bobby Agbo, Justin 27 married to Megan Rains

8 grandkids

Resides: Staplehurst, NE - the white castle on the southwest corner of

town.

Owned Staplehurst Oil Company for 25+ years running a full service and

tank wagon service Phillips 66 gas station

Currently George is a fulltime rural route carrier for the USPS.  Has

been for 10+ years

Rose helped out at the station and ran the fuel tank for awhile!  Now

she helps out at Seward High School.

George and Rose enjoy going to their cabin that they recently purchased

on the Platte River.  It lies in between a lake and the Platte.  They

enjoy having all the kids, n laws and friends out all summer long.

George lives their in the summer and has created a golf course on the

river, and cruises up and down the river on ATV's.  They have traveled

all over the country with their daughters following Justin play baseball

for Nebraska and the Cleveland Indians.  Their grandkids are their

passion, and are very thankful with a special family, special cabin, and

a special faith, and have been blessed to be married for 37 + years.

Steve Plasek    

Kenneth Policky 

Larry Prochaska

February 3, 1950-January 9, 2011

Larry was the sixth person from the Class of 1968 to pass away.  More information on his death can be found on the page entitled:  “Rest In Peace”.

Below is information Larry submitted for our 40 year reunion in 2008

I have been married for 36 years to Janet (Baack).

We have 3 children, and 3 grandkids.

Scott & Becky  and their daughter Sage.  Scott farms with me.  They live by Ulysses.  Becky is an artist and does painting.

Kevin & Amy and they have a son and daughter, Carson and Molly.  They live in Gretna were Kevin is a auto technician, or mechanic for Performance Dodge in Omaha.

Amy works for the Gretna Public Schools.

Angie, is not married and lives in Lincoln, and works for Lincoln Orthopedic and Sports Medicine.

My spouse is retired from working for 22 years at Wal-mart in Seward.  She retired this March.  Now her full time job is to take care of me, which she says is a really full time job.

I have lived in the Ulysses and Staplehurst area all my life.

My hobbies are collection of old cars and tractors, and toy tractors.  And yes I do have my 64 Chevy yet.

Favorite Aquinas memories are: My many adventures to the office.  And my love for Sister Madeline.

I have accomplished a few things in my life that are special to me:  In 1988 I got the Young Farmers Award for Seward County.  And in 2007 I made it on Channel 10 as a part on I'm proud to be a Nebraska Farmer.

Nancy Puetz Zahourek

Updated April 2018

       After high school I attended college at Kearney State, graduating with a degree in Elementary Education in 1972.  I taught in Omaha for four years before my marriage to Ron in 1976.  We  lived in Genoa, NE where Ron taught and coached and I taught in St. Edward, NE.  From there we spent two years in Grand Forks,ND while Ron earned a Master's Degree and I taught 5th grade.  Then we landed in Le Mars, IA.   Ron was the football coach at the college. I took a position teaching middle school Social Studies and stayed until I retired in 2016. Therefore I had a 43 year teaching career and feel my parent’s money was well spent. Ron is also retired but spends about 120 days a year teaching special needs students in a Sioux City middle school.

  We have four children and (finally) one grandson.  Pat and his wife Maren live in Sergeant Bluff, IA. He is a special ed teacher at Sioux City East High. Their son Brett just turned one. Our daughter Kelsey lives in Washington D.C. and is a consultant for Koch Industries. Twins, Ann and Jill live in Sioux City and teach in South Sioux City and Sioux City respectively.

       I am enjoying my retirement and lack of a set schedule.  We continue to have season tickets to Creighton basketball games which keeps us busy in the winter.  I spend a lot of time working in our yard and joining my friends at the Y for exercise and socializing. I am now excited to read all the books I didn’t have time for when I was working.  We feel very fortunate that our family is healthy and happy!!

Rodney Rech  

Colleen Richter Waldman

Connie Richter Kearney

Updated April 2018

          See Jim Kearney

Diane Roh Furasek

Written April 2018

Name: Diane Roh Furasek

Spouse: Richard Furasek 

I moved to Lincoln in the fall after I graduated and we got married June 15, 1974.

Rich was a firefighter for Lincoln Fire and Rescue and retired in 2012 as an assistant chief. 

Children:  Three

Todd and wife Anne Marie Furasek have 3 daughters.  Randi Marie, Delani Anne and Zelli Rose they live in Lincoln, Ne. Todd works at Union Bank his wife does accounting work from home.

Jill and husband Justin Jakub have 3 sons. Grant Henry, Drew Clarence and Seth Richard they live in Columbus, Ne. Jill is an occupational therapist and her husband works for NPPD. They lost a set of twins Samuel and Marie in 2007. 

Aaron and his wife Christina Furasek live in San Diego. He works for a company called ViaSat and his wife works for a pharmaceutical company.

Employment: I worked for an advertising company in Lincoln and took night classes at Lincoln School of Commerce. After our first son was born I stayed at home for several years while raising our children.  I had several part time jobs before going back to work in 1990 for Lincoln Public Schools. I worked in a school office and retired in January 2013.

We enjoy our retirement by spending time with grandchildren and attending their activities. We do some traveling to visit our son in San Diego and friends in Arizona. We like to garden during the summer. We do a lot of volunteering at our church St John the Apostle Catholic Church. 

I am very proud of my Catholic education and this is being carried on as our children were able to attend catholic schools and now are grandchildren are attending catholic schools. We have truly been blessed!!

Larry Sabata 

Bob Schindler  

Mike Schlentz

decesead

June 24, 1950-December 13, 2020

Mike had an aneurysm in 1968 and struggled with health issues the rest of his life.     

Pat Schlentz    

Decesead

June 24, 1950-September 20, 2021

Pat died of a brain aneurysm.  His twin brother’s life was affected by a brain aneurysm as well.

The following information was taken from Pat’s obituary:

Pat graduated from Aquinas High School in 1968. He attended trade school and worked for a short while as a mechanic. He entered the police academy and after graduation, went to work as a police officer in Fremont for 7 years. He then moved to Lincoln, where he served on the force for 17 years. Pat left the Lincoln area to work as an undercover white collar crime investigator and public auditor on the Island of Saipan, in the northern Mariana Islands.

During his 5 years on the island, he met, fell in love and married his wife, Beth, on May 18, 2001. They moved to Omaha after his term expired, where Pat went to work at DHHS in the Adult Protection Services, where he remained until his retirement in 2015.

Carol Semin Sliva

Spouse’s name (include maiden name if applicable): Jim

Childrens’ names & spouses (if applicable): Kristi (Tim) Hanke, Tanner, Trey & Taryn live in Des Moines, Iowa.  Keri (Chad) Homolka, Nathan & Brynn live in Columbus.  Kasey (Craig Pekny-fiance) lives in Omaha, NE.

Your job(s):  Legal Secretary

Your spouse’s job(s): Retired, UPRR

Where have you lived since 1968?: Columbus

Hobbies: Spending lots of time with grandchildren, traveling a little, going to Las Vegas!

Special accomplishments (yourself, spouse, kids, etc.)  I have worked at the same job since 1972.  My husband worked with UPRR since '70.  He is now retired, as they get to retire when they turn 60.  I too will get to retire when I turn 60 through the railroad.  Can't wait for that day!  We must be getting old!!!

Added June 6, 2013:

My husband, Jim, and I are both retired now.  We are doing a little traveling and some babysitting for the grandkids.  Our oldest daughter and her husband, Kristi and Tim Hanke, live in Urbandale, Iowa with their three kids.  Kristi works for Harland Financial and Tim is a benefits planner.  Their kids are Tanner, 16, Trey, 8 and Taryn, 7.  Our second daughter and her husband (Keri and Chad Homolka) live in Columbus.  Keri is an insurance specialist at Farm Credit and Chad is a supervisor at ADM.  They have two children, Nathan is 13 and Brynn is 5.  Our youngest daughter and her husband, Kasey and Craig Pekny, have just moved back to Columbus.  Kasey is a special needs teacher and Craig is a doctor at the Columbus Medical Center.  They are expected their first child and our 6th grandchild in August.  I never thought two of our kids would end up back in Columbus but it's really nice having family so close!!

Marvin Shalon

spouses name: susan (susie) 

childrens names:

trevor (1987) a senior to be at peru state college

heath (1989) a freshman to be at ccc platte campus

jobs:

marvin- appleton electic (egs) 21 1/2 yrs

columbus sales pavilion (part-time)

susie- marc (mid-america research)

trevor- menards

heath- works on his uncles farm

columbus sales pavilion (part-time)

residences:

denver, colo.

san diego, calif.

schuyler, nebr.

columbus, nebr.

hobbies:

golf, fishing and hunting

AJ Spatz

Aloha Mae Stara Schmid

Spouse; Tom Schmid -- 1967 Aquinas High graduate. High school sweethearts, Tom and I were married in 1971 by Fr Rutten at St. Francis Center Church David City.  After we both finished college- I graduated from Bryan School of Nursing and Tom from UNL- Tom took a job with Farmers Home Administration and not wanting to leave the good life of Nebraska we have stayed in the state.

Children's names & spouses (if applicable):

Scott (1972) and Dana Schmid married living in York, NE with two boys, Jake 5 and Cole 3 and ??? due in Feb 09

       Scott is Vice President of Engineering at Cyclonaire in York  Dana teaches at Hampton NE

Julie (1973) and Nick Theis married living in Superior NE with three children Trenten 7, Morgan 5 and Tanner 3

       Julie is a Family Practice Physician and Nick does taxidermy

Jeana (1975) and Travis Petree married living in Mason City, Iowa- three children Braden 6, Ella 2, and Tyler 10 months

       Jeana and Travis are both Radiologists

Jane Aloha (1979) and Drew Jensen married and living in Lincoln, NE – two boys Marley 4, and Elijah 2

       Jane works at Social Security Dept in Lincoln and Drew is construction manager at JLC, York, NE. They have just purchased 4 acres near York and will be building and moving to York in the next couple years.

That should make four children, three son-in-laws, one daughter in-law, 8 grandsons, two granddaughters and ???.  All the grandchildren are age 7 and younger.

Your job(s):

Staff Nurse in local hospitals and St. Elizabeth's in Lincoln.

Currently Assistant Administrator of Community Development, Tabitha Health Care Services West Region.  Over the last 17 years working for Tabitha, I have been a staff nurse in the Hospice, Home Health Care and private duty departments, Assistant Administrator of Hospice and Home Care Specialties and currently get to help develop the growth of our home care programs in our West Region which consists of 19 counties.  So I spend a lot of time traveling from Lincoln to Columbus, Hebron to Grand Island.

Your spouse's job(s):

Farm Loan Manager with USDA Farmers Home Administration and Farm Service Agency  37 years.

Where have you lived since 1968?:

Lincoln, school years

Lexington, NE 1971-1973

David City and Brainard, NE 1973-1974

York, NE 1974-2000

Waco, NE on an acreage 2000-present

Hobbies:

Gardening, cooking, volunteering (can that be a hobby-- it takes up lots of my time), and spending time with family-- my parents live in David City and Tom's Mom at Bellwood.

Special accomplishments (yourself, spouse, kids, etc.)

All the children graduated from the University of Nebraska and Julie and Jeana from University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha.  I recently was honored to receive the Nebraska Hospice and Palliative Care Partnership (NHPCP) State Impact Award for work in promoting End of Life Care in Nebraska.  I served as the President of NHPCP for the last four years. 

Pictured are Aloha and Tom Schmid with their grandchildren.

Diane Vanderheiden Enloe

Larry George Vanis ( aka Lawrence). 

1950-February 24, 2014

Larry was the eighth person from the Class of 1968 to pass away.  More information on his death can be found on the page entitled:  “Rest In Peace”.

Information previously offered by Larry:

Just found out when preparing for a cruise 3 yrs ago, that my "real" name is Larry, not Lawrence. 

 melvene sedlak vanis

jennifer vanis, jason and Katie Oman Vanis, and Joshua Vanis (deceased)

self-employed mechanic

 DMV driver license examiner 

milford, Omaha, then david city for the last 36 yrs

 deer hunting and Nascar enthusiast

none

still kicking. Had some major heart surgery 2 yrs ago. The "blue plate special", as Dr Reines called it. Had 4 bypasses, a valve replacement and the Maze procedure.

Retired from Air Natl Guard after serving for 24 yrs and just recently began reaping the benefits.

 Michael Vanous

Updated:  January 15, 2017 

I graduated from UNL. I retired in 2016. My wife retired in 2011.  We have a granddaughter and grandson.

Spouse’s name (include maiden name if applicable): Kimberly

Childrens’ names & spouses (if applicable):

Lindsay Kelby  spouse: Jeff Hodge

Your job(s): Elec. Engineer

Your spouse’s job(s):  presently 2nd grade teacher, formerly Kindergarten teacher

Where have you lived since 1968?: Baltimore area, primarily Ellicott City

Special accomplishments (yourself, spouse, kids, etc.): 

I completed a marathon and several 10, 13 & 16 mile races

Lindsay is a veterinarian working as a pet vet

Barb Woita Goodman

Spouses name:  Bob Goodman

Occupation:  Retired

Bob and I were married on August 31, 1986, and live in Omaha.  Bob was born and raised here and I have lived here since 1969.  I have 3 stepchildren (1 married, 2 single), 2 grandchildren, and a dog with issues named PePe’.   My husband and his ex have an amicable relationship – this makes life more enjoyable when there are children and grandchildren involved, and we are able to celebrate family events together.      

I work at the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Medicine.  I am an Educational Coordinator in the Department of Family Medicine and work with the medical students in several programs throughout their 4 years.  I coordinate a 2 month rural preceptorship program for the M3 students where they spend 2 months in a rural medical setting.  Our focus is to return students to the rural communities as Family Medicine physicians.  I have had the opportunity to work with several rural preceptors and medical students who have ties with Aquinas, David City, and fellow.  It is always enjoyable to come in contact with hometown people.

I enjoy spending time with the grandchildren, traveling, and cooking, when not at work.

Pictured are my husband, kids and grandkids.  Missing is my son-in-law, Shawn.   We are at a western hoe down party in Persia, Iowa (population 363) celebrating my brother-in-law’s 60th birthday and him being cancer free for a year.  From left to right:  Bob, Barbara, Eric, Andrea, Peyton, and Lisa.  Front row:  Spencer.

Diane Wupper Tritt

Written April 2018

My husband John and I have now both retired as of 2 years ago.  Me from nursing and him from managing Physician clinics.  We have lived In Lincoln NE for 12 years now.  We met at the university and moved to Kansas City MO living there for 10 years.  Then on to Hutchinson KS for 2 1/2 years, Sidney NE for 17 years and Lexington for 4 years.

We have traveled quite a bit as my husband loves scuba diving so it has taken us to lots of wonderful places.  Our summers are full of grandchildren’s baseball games and golfing.

We have three sons and five grandchildren.  Our oldest, Matthew has two sons 9 and 6 and lives here in Lincoln.  He teaches at Bryan hospital CRNA (nurse anesthetist) students.  Our second son lives in Chicago with his family a son 6, and two daughters ages 1 and 2.  He is an ER physician at Alexian brothers hospital.  Our third son lives here in Lincoln and works at Capital One bank.  I am very fortunate to have 2 wonderful daughters in law and a third one hopefully sometime soon.

I’m still in touch with Barb Homan Oberg as our friendship has remained very strong.  Our friendship is what I consider the best part of Aquinas.

Tom Zegers

Went to the army in June 1970 and then to Viet Nam from November 1970 to December 1971

Married Judy (Thonen) Zegers January 28, 1978

Children:

Brian and Tonya (Schwartzkoph) Zegers live in David City

Bridget (Zegers) and Brian Stuhr live in Omaha

Andrea Zegers lives in Lincoln

Grandchildren:  

Ethan Zegers and Chloe Zegers

I’m still farming and still live on the home place

Judy is a cook at Northside and helps me on the farm.

Hobby:  Hunting

Judy Zitek Alt Saunders