2024 Hall of Fame Registration

Hall of Fame 2020 Inductees

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  • Dr. Daniel Ebeling

    Class of 1994

    Distinguished Alumni
    In a relatively short amount of time, Dr. Dan Ebeling (’94) has reached a number of career milestones. He is a college chemistry professor, nationally-regarded researcher and published author. Ebeling was granted three patents for DNA sequencing-related technology and chemical sensors and has authored and co-authored more than a dozen articles for peer-reviewed journals. As an undergraduate at Wisconsin Lutheran College (WLC), he conducted research in atmospheric chemistry at MIT with WLC professor, Keith Beyer, and Nobel Laureate Mario Molina. While earning his Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry from the University of Wisconsin – Madison, he conducted research for the Human Genome Project. Ebeling completed his Ph.D. in three years and returned to teach chemistry at WLC. For more than a decade, he’s collaborated with an engineering firm in California, providing opportunities for students to work on projects funded by NASA, the EPA, NSF and NIH. He regularly conducts research with his wife, Angela, a soil scientist and professor at WLC. The couple earned second majors in Mandarin Chinese and have presented at schools and conferences in China. Together with WLC students, they have conducted research and published articles related to phosphorus and the environment. Despite their young age, the couple became members of the Raabe Legacy Society, marking their commitment to establishing a planned gift for WLHS.

    Inducted on Sunday, October 4, 2020.

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  • Jacob Fritz

    Class of 2006

    Athletics
    Jake was a three sport athlete at WLHS and a 9-time letter winner in football, wrestling and track and field. He was a team captain in all three sports his senior year and was selected a WIAA Senior Scholar Athlete Award recipient in 2006. His football teams were WLT conference champions in 2004 and 2005. They were WIAA State Champions in 2004 (14-0) and 2005 (13-1). Jake was 1st team all-conference, Lineman of the Year, and 1st-team all-state his senior year. In wrestling, Jake was a two time all-conference performer, capturing a title his senior year. The Viking team captured the Regional title in 2005. Jake grabbed the individual Regional and Sectional titles and qualified for the State Championships as a junior and senior. In track and field, Jake was a podium finisher in the shot put and the discus his junior and senior years. The team won WLT outdoor (’05), indoor (’06) and relay (’06) titles. The team captured the WIAA Sectional title and placed 7th at the State meet in ‘06. Jake was the Sectional shot put champion his junior and senior year, and added the discus title his senior year. He placed 4th (shot put) at the WIAA State Championships. Jake still holds the indoor and outdoor school record in the shot put and is on the all-time top ten list in the discus. Jake went on to perform in track and field at the University of Wisconsin, where he still holds a top 10 all-time performance spot on their shot put list (58’ 8.75”). That performance earned him 6th place in shot put at the Big Ten Outdoor Track and Field Championships in 2008.

    Inducted on Sunday, October 4, 2020.

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  • Kirk DeNoyer

    Ministry/Athletics
    Kirk DeNoyer has left a lasting imprint on the face of Wisconsin Lutheran High School. As a teacher, coach and administrator here in his 26 years of ministry, Coach DeNoyer’s impact remains in the culture of our school. Kirk served as the varsity football coach at Wisconsin Lutheran for 20 years. His teams amassed a 196-47 (.806) record during that time. WLHS won 16 Wisconsin Little Ten Conference Championships during his tenure. Kirk’s teams won 4 WIAA State titles, in 2004, 2005, 2007 and 2014, with runner up finishes in 2003 and 2011. Kirk’s team mantra, “First Lord, Second Team” has impacted generations of young men in the football program, including sons Austin and Andrew, whom he had the opportunity to coach. Kirk was honored with a selection into the Wisconsin Football Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 2020. He often credits his dedicated, long serving football staff on all levels. He also coached in the Viking boys basketball program during his time at WLHS. He served as head JV and assistant varsity coach in the program as it won WIAA state titles in 2009 and 2014, and was State Runner up in 2013. His greater contribution to our school however, was the change of the athletic culture. The expectations of excellence through dedication in the weight room and the off-season training helped turn our football program around and impacted our athletic program in general. Kirk embraced his Christian leadership role in our school as a coach, teacher and administrator.

    Inducted on Sunday, October 4, 2020.

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  • Ken and Joan Krueger

    Ken (Class of 1974)

    Stewardship
    Ken (’74) and Joan Krueger have a passion for WLHS and its ministry and have given selflessly of their time, talents and treasures to support the high school. For the past two decades, their hands have touched every major campaign and initiative, propelling WLHS forward in countless ways. The couple, whose three children attended WLHS, have continually answered “Yes,” whenever they’ve been asked to serve. Ken was on the Board of Directors for both WLHS and the WLHS Foundation. He was an instrumental leader, serving as chairman, vice chairman and treasurer, and applied his extensive financial expertise to the Investment & Distribution Committee and numerous Executive Committees. With his fiscal guidance, WLHS grew its successful International Student Program. In 2014, Ken and Joan chaired the Gifted for Praise capital campaign and Ken chaired the building committee. The campaign raised $7 million to transform and update the school’s public-facing façade and provide new and expanded space for the Fine Arts, Engineering and FACE programs. For years, Joan was a dedicated and tireless volunteer for the Wisco Auction. Her commitment continues to this day as Joan joined the WLHS Foundation Board of Directors in 2018 and served on the committee that helped expand the WLHS campus with Honey Creek Hall. 

    Inducted on Sunday, October 4, 2020.

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  • Luther Kolander

    Ministry
    Luther Kolander embodied the spirit of a devoted Christian shepherd. His kindness, patience and compassion made him one of the most beloved teachers at WLHS. His service began in 1945 when he accepted a call to Lutheran High. He remained there until the split in 1955 when he joined the fledgling faculty at WLHS. For 43 years, he taught Geometry and Algebra until his retirement in 1988. Luther was a long-time Junior Varsity baseball coach for the Vikings. He was known for his fairness and even temper and was highly respected by his players. In the classroom, he had exacting standards but students appreciated his calm demeanor and knew, above all else, he cared for them and their spiritual wellbeing. He was exceedingly patient and committed to helping his students grasp the concepts of Geometry and Algebra. He kept in touch with a number of his students and looked forward to hearing about their lives. For those he knew well, instead of saying “goodbye,” Luther would say, “I’ll see you in heaven.” Luther was a constant witness for Jesus and would regularly share his faith others. The Kolander legacy at WLHS continues with the Luther and Bernice Kolander Family Scholarship.

    Inducted posthumously on Sunday, October 4, 2020.

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  • Rev. James Kleist

    Class of 1968

    Ministry
    Rev. Jim Kleist (’68) was a faithful servant leader to WLHS for nearly 30 years and during that time had an immeasurable impact on the institution. He served on the WLHS Board of Directors for 6 years, guided the school for 19 years as superintendent and was executive director of the WLHS Foundation for four years. Under his stewardship, WLHS embarked on three capital campaigns that changed the footprint of the high school and enhanced its academic and athletic offerings. To provide ongoing funding for tuition assistance, faculty development and program enhancements, Rev. Kleist established the WLHS Foundation in 2001. The foundation now provides WLHS with an annual distribution of nearly $600,000. That same year, he embraced the opportunity for gospel outreach through the Milwaukee Parental Choice Program. Since then, the school has welcomed a more diverse student body that’s reflective of the communities in which the WLHS conference congregations are located. Rev. Kleist trusted his leadership team and faculty and involved them in the planning of the campus and curriculum expansions. As a result of this team work, an engineering program was implemented, the College Readiness Continuum and student learning Resource Center were established and a campus pastor was added. The legacy of Rev. Kleist continues with the James Kleist Scholarship.

    Inducted on Sunday, October 4, 2020.
Hall of Fame 2017 Inductees

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  • Terry Treuden

    Class of 1965

    Ministry
    Terry Treuden began his ministry at WLHS in 1969 and over the next 30 years touched every corner of the music department. Primarily the high school band director, Terry also served the elementary school band program, gave individual lessons, and taught Music Theory and Church Music classes. He led the WLHS Marching Band, the highly successful summer competitive band, flute choir, clarinet choir, pep bands, and the jazz ensembles. He also was a driving force behind the development of the popular Prism Concerts at WLHS. In addition to serving as the Fine Arts Department Chairman, Terry also directed the
    A Cappella Choir for a time. In 1999, Terry became the Director of Instrumental Music at Wisconsin Lutheran College. There he directed the Concert Band, Jazz Band, and many ensemble groups. Terry was active in the classroom, teaching conducting and music arranging. In 2006, Terry received the Outstanding Bandmaster Award for the Wisconsin Chapter of Phi Beta Mu and was presented with the Edwin Franko Goldman Award from the American School Band Directors Association. Terry has served the greater church as guest clinician and conductor for many WELS regional and national music festivals. Professor Treuden retired in 2017 after serving in the Ministry for 48 years.

    Inducted Saturday, May 6, 2017.

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  • Karen (Kraklow) Sitz

    Class of 1976

    Athletics
    Karen Sitz started coaching volleyball at WLHS in 1981 as the freshman coach, a position she held for three years before spending 13 seasons as the varsity head coach. During that time on the varsity, she amassed a 300-112 record (.728). Her teams won four titles in the challenging Little Ten, the premier volleyball conference in Wisconsin at the time. She led the Vikings to 10 WISAA Regional titles and four appearances in state championship matches, finishing as runner up in 1988 and 1994, and winning State Championships in both the 1995 and 1996 seasons. She was selected to coach the south squad in the Wisconsin Volleyball Coaches Association Senior All-Star game in 1989 and was named the Coach of the Year in 1996 by both the Milwaukee Journal and the WVCA. Karen also spearheaded the annual WLHS Summer Volleyball camps and Grade School Coaches Clinics. For Karen, volleyball was a wonderful vehicle through which she could develop spiritual maturity, leadership, teamwork, and compassion in her players. WLHS honors Karen Sitz and her dedication to the WLHS ministry with induction into the Hall of Fame.

    Inducted Saturday, May 6, 2017.

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  • Greg Mahlberg

    Class of 1969

    Athletics
    Greg Mahlberg was a two-sport athlete at WLHS, but his passion was clearly in baseball, a sport he pursued to the highest level. Greg played baseball at the University of Wisconsin before beginning his professional career. An undrafted free agent, Greg was signed by the Texas Rangers organization in 1973. As a minor leaguer, he batted .241 in 705 games spread over ten seasons. Greg realized his dreams and was called up to the Major League level in 1978 and stayed with the Rangers through the 1978 and 1979 seasons as a catcher. At the conclusion of his playing days, Greg turned his love of the game to coaching and managing. He began his managing career in the Seattle Mariners farm system in 1983 and spent 15 years as a minor league pilot, also working for the Chicago Cubs, Milwaukee Brewers, and Tampa Bay Devil Rays. During his managing days, he amassed over 900 victories. He managed in the Class A California League for eight seasons and at one point, held the league record for victories by a manager with 526. Greg was inducted into the Wisconsin Old Timers Hall of Fame in 2014.

    Inducted Saturday, May 6, 2017.

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  • Rudy Kalis

    Class of 1965

    Alumni Leader
    In the 1965 Compass Rudy Kalis’s “likes” were listed as . . . Cars, Sports and People. This prophetic list would capture the essence of the career of this award-winning sports journalist. After serving in the U.S. Air Force, Rudy graduated from UWM with a degree in Broadcasting and started at WFRV-TV in Green Bay. In 1974, he joined WSMV-TV in Nashville as a sports reporter and anchor. In Nashville, he won four local emmys for outstanding sportscast and commentary, as well as the prestigious Silver Circle Award. He won a National Iris Award for outstanding documentary and was voted Outstanding TV Sportscaster in Nashville more than 25 times. He has also won the Associated Press award for the Outstanding Sportscast in Tennessee 12 times. Rudy was inducted into the Nashville Metro Football Coaches Association Hall of Fame (2011) and the Nashville Speedway Hall of Fame (2013). In 2014, Rudy moved across the desk, becoming a news anchor for WSMV-TV. Rudy shares his life of Christian values through his professional speaking and work with I am Second, a Christian ministry. Rudy is on the board of directors for the Jason Foundation to Prevent Teen Suicide, and works with the American Lung Association and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes.

    Inducted Saturday, May 6, 2017.

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  • Clary and Pat Hartwig

    Stewardship
    Clary, class of 1956, and Pat, an honorary Viking, have been faithful LHS/WLHS friends. Over the years they have been most generous in using their time, talents, and treasures to support the mission and vision of WLHS. Three generations of the Hartwig family have attended WLHS. Clary has lived his commitment to the ministry of WLHS through his service on the WLHS Board of Directors, as well as on special committees that focused on finances, capital campaigns, and the expansion of facilities. Clary and Pat have made truly transformational gifts which have allowed WLHS to achieve initiatives which were not only outside of the standard budget, but which will impact the WLHS experience for future generations of young people. In addition, Clary and Pat are members of the Raabe Legacy Society by generously remembering WLHS in their estate plans. WLHS has truly been blessed by Clary and Pat’s life of faith!

    Inducted Saturday, May 6, 2017.

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  • Nancy (Schattschneider) Raabe

    Class of 1966

    Stewardship
    Ask Nancy what she does and she’ll probably answer something like, “Oh, just the behind-the-scenes stuff that no one else has time for; the little things that need to be done so others can concentrate on the big stuff.” She’s done this throughout her entire life as a mother, a volunteer, and a staff member at multiple ministries. Prior to Nancy, St. Jacobi Lutheran Church had no administrative support for its pastors and financial officers. At Time of Grace Ministries, she was one of the three original staff members; she built the business operations from the ground up. Now at Wisconsin Lutheran High School she has been the administrative assistant for various Directors of Mission Advancement and also provided assistance to many other positions on the Mission Advancement team. The Wisconsin Lutheran High School family considers itself blessed to have Nancy as one of its team members. She is a living example to everyone of “faithful Aaron holding up the prophet’s hands.”

    Inducted Saturday, May 6, 2017.

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  • Ned Goede

    Ministry
    Ned Goede served as principal of WLHS during an unprecedented time of growth and change. After 19 years of teaching and administration at St. Philip/Beautiful Savior Schools in Milwaukee, Ned was called to serve WLHS as a counselor and teacher. A year later, he became the fourth Principal in WLHS history and served in that capacity for 24 years. Among other duties, he served as NHS advisor, and as director of the award winning A Capella choir and the decorated swing choir, Wisco Kids. As Principal, Ned spearheaded the ministry focus of the school’s emerging mission. He was instrumental in promoting the professional growth of the faculty. As WLHS became involved in the School Choice Program, Ned helped develop the College Readiness Curriculum, expanding the reach of the school’s curriculum and support to all educational levels. He was also vital in two capital campaigns which added new math, science, fine and practical arts classrooms to the campus. Ned is also remembered for the organization and focus he brought to daily worship through the development of the annual School Theme and Worship Outline. WLHS celebrates and honors Principal Ned Goede for his passion for the WLHS ministry.

    Inducted Saturday, May 6, 2017.

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  • '96-'97 Women's Volleyball Team

    Tracy Keller (’98), Shelly (Draeger) Kurach (’99), Katie (Schulz) Beres (’97), Meg (Raddant) Schuessler (’97), Stephanie (Piekarski) Seitz (’98), Cheryl (Gottschalk) Belott (’98), Kelly (Gawrisch) Schauland (’97), Stephanie Sarandos (’98), Becky (Sowinski) Knight (’97), Lisa (Kargus) Ditscheit (’97), Sara Urbanek (’97), Kelly (Mikula) Robakowski (’98)

    Athletics
    The 1996-1997 volleyball team experienced unprecedented success in WLHS athletic history. They captured the conference title in the tough Wisconsin Little Ten with a perfect 14-0 record. They won the WISAA Regional title on their way to defending their 1995 WISAA State Championship crown, putting back
    -to-back state titles in the Viking trophy case. They were the #1 ranked team in Wisconsin, public or private, all season. They finished their season with a 44-2 record, which included a heartbreaking 15-13, 13-15,14-16 loss in the championship match of the Nike Challenge in Chicago, to the #1 ranked team in America, Assumption of Louisville, KY. The Vikings concluded their season undefeated in the state of Wisconsin and ranked #8 in the United States in the USA Today high school poll.

    Inducted Saturday, May 6, 2017.
Hall of Fame 2014 Inductees

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  • '65-'66 MENS BASKETBALL TEAM

    John Moldenhauer, Dave Metzger, Randy Goede, Jim Brenn, Dan Horn, Tom Bilitz, Mitch Reich, George Mortl, Coach Glenn Raasch, Jim Guenther, John Schwarzl, Llewellyn Eastern, Daryl Raabe, Frank Dethloff, Jerry Zarr, John Engmann, Art Bruegger; Kneeling: Paul Wendland, Steve Ferk; Not Pictured: John Metzger

    Athletics
    In the history of WLHS, perhaps no team is as hallowed as the 1965-1966 boys basketball team that finished its season with a perfect 21-0 record. Head Coach Glenn Raasch assembled a team that won the Midwest Prep Conference title, the Midwest Prep Conference Tournament championship, and ended the season ranked fifth in the state of Wisconsin. This historic team preceded the establishment of WISAA and predated WLHS’ inclusion into WIAA, so they had no state championship vehicle with which to further their 21-0 finish. Wins over Catholic powerhouses Messmer and Madison Edgewood—along with nonconference wins over Greenfield, Greendale, Notre Dame, and West Allis Central—added to an undefeated conference slate and produced the perfect season. Since their graduation, many of the team members have continued as active supporters of the ministry of WLHS.

    Inducted Saturday, May 10, 2014.

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  • PAUL RUEGE

    1926-1994

    Ministry
    Upon graduation from Northwestern College, Watertown, Paul Ruege received a call to Lutheran High School in 1948. During that time, he also served part time as an instructor at the former Milwaukee Lutheran Teachers College. In the 1960s, Paul helped lay the foundation of Wisconsin Lutheran College, eventually assuming the roles of professor and dean of students. In 1970 Paul accepted a call back to WLHS, where he worked faithfully as the director of guidance and as a Latin, history, math, philosophy, and theology teacher. He also operated the Extended Learning Center and served as advisor to the National Honor Society. Paul spent 46 years of his ministry at WLHS. Throughout those years he was admired and loved by students and faculty for his biblical and historical insight and his gracious, gentle spirit. At his home congregation of Nain Lutheran Church, West Allis, Paul served faithfully as a church organist, Sunday school director, choir director, and a member of numerous boards and committees.

    Inducted Saturday, May 10, 2014.

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  • GEORGE MORTL

    Class of 1966

    Athletics
    George Mortl was a two-sport athlete at WLHS, participating in baseball and basketball from 1962 to 1966. George earned all-conference honors in baseball and was a member of the undefeated 1965-1966 Hall of Fame boys basketball team. George served St. John’s, Wauwatosa, by coaching a wide variety of sports for many years. Later, George brought his coaching skills back to WLHS, spending two years coaching freshman baseball and eight years at various levels in the girls basketball program. It was the girls softball program, however, where George truly established excellence. During his thirteen-year run, George’s teams captured two WLTC softball titles (1999, 2000). At the state level, the WLHS softball teams appeared in five consecutive state championship games, winning WISAA Division 1 state titles in 1996, 1997, 1999, and 2000, finishing as runner-up in 1998. Coach Mortl’s passion for kids and their growth as young Christians has been a blessing to WLHS and to the lives of his former athletes.

    Inducted Saturday, May 10, 2014.

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  • KRIS (MANSKE) JOHNSON

    Class of 1994

    Athletics
    Kris Johnson’s Hall of Fame athletic career started at WLHS, where she won eight varsity letters in volleyball, basketball, and softball. Kris was a WLTC Scholar Athlete Award winner and received the Nitschke Award as the outstanding female athlete at WLHS in 1994. Kris was selected to First Team All-Conference positions six times in her high school career (VB-1, BB-3, SB-2) and was a two-time WLTC Player of the Year in basketball (1993, 1994). Kris led the basketball team to back-to-back WLTC titles and to the 1994 WISAA state title. She was the Journal Sentinel Basketball Player of the Year in 1994 and earned a basketball scholarship to Northern Michigan University, where she was a four-year starter and graduated with a 101-21 record. Kris is in the top ten all-time at NMU in steals (1), assists (2), scoring (5), and rebounding (6). Among many honors, Kris was the GLIAC Player of the Year and was selected First Team All-American (1998) when she led NMU to their first NCAA Final Four. Kris was inducted into the NMU Athletic Hall of Fame in 2012. After her graduation, Kris joined the basketball coaching staff at the UW-Green Bay, where she was an assistant for nine years. The Phoenix were 223-58 and made seven NCAA tournament appearances during her tenure.

    Inducted Saturday, May 10, 2014.

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  • DR. JANET (KANTER) LINDEMANN

    Class of 1972

    Alumni Leader
    “Be still and know that I am God” has been Scripture’s guide for Dr. Janet Lindemann throughout her career in medicine. She is a family physician who earned her BS from Marquette University, her MD from the Medical College of Wisconsin, and her MBA in health care management from the University of Sioux Falls. Her accomplished career transitioned away from patient care when she took on the role of dean of Medical Student Education at the University of South Dakota Sanford School of Medicine. Dr. Lindemann travels the country as a member of the prestigious Liaison Committee on Medical Education as an accreditation team leader for medical schools throughout North America. She also serves as medical advisor to Gift of Life in Ukraine, a pro-life medical relief effort developed in response to the Chernobyl disaster. Dr. Lindemann exemplifies Christian leadership as she continually seeks to model Christian values and glorify God in both professional and volunteer roles.

    Inducted Saturday, May 10, 2014.

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  • LILLI GUST

    Class of 1965

    Stewardship
    Lilli Gust’s profound love for the Lord’s work has shown forth in her devoted involvement with WLHS and a number of other ministries. Her experience as a business leader has allowed her to utilize her gifts for service to her alma mater in numerous valuable capacities. Lilli has shared her expertise and input as a member of leadership teams for multiple WLHS capital campaigns. She was also an inaugural and long-time member of the WLHS Foundation Board of Directors and proved instrumental in crafting the foundation’s investment and distribution policies. Lilli is a founding member of the WLHS Raabe Legacy Society, and she passionately encourages others to join her in including the WLHS Foundation in their estate plans. She finds great joy in both immediate giving to the high school as well as in planned giving, delighted by the impact she can make now and also in the future.

    Inducted Saturday, May 10, 2014.

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  • COL. JOHNNY DAVIS

    Class of 1987

    Alumni Leader
    Col. Johnny Davis sought to utilize his strong Christian-based education and commitment to his community through active military service. He pursued a calling much larger than himself and entered the U.S. Army in the early 1990s as an infantry lieutenant. Col. Davis’ military career has landed him in numerous stateside locations in addition to various overseas deployments: Egypt, Kuwait, Haiti, Iraq, and Afghanistan, to name a few. Since then, Col. Davis has used his God-given talents to help thousands of civilians around the world. Among many assignments, Col. Davis has served as aide-de-camp to the Pentagon’s Joint Chiefs of Staff vice chair, as well as director of the U.S. Army’s Wounded Warrior Program. He has also earned a multitude of promotions, decorations, and awards. Most notable are the Presidential Unit Citation, three Bronze Stars, six Meritorious Service Medals, the Purple Heart for wounds received in combat, the Army Commendation Medal for valor, the Douglas MacArthur Leadership Award, and qualification as an Airborne Ranger. Col. Davis earned a master’s degree in national security strategy from the National War College, Washington D.C. Col. Davis plans to continue his active service to our nation and his WLHS family.

    Inducted Saturday, May 10, 2014.
Hall of Fame 2011 Inductees

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  • REV. WAYNE BORGWARDT

    Ministry

    Rev. Wayne Borgwardt left an indelible mark on Wisconsin Lutheran High School as the school’s first superintendent. When called to WLHS in 1978, he recognized the need for a division of roles within the school administration. He and the Board of Directors defined the distinct positions of a principal, superintendent, and development director. This model has not only proven to be successful for decades at WLHS, but has also been emulated by many other Lutheran high schools. As superintendent, Rev. Borgwardt used his gifts of communication and an ability to build relationships to reestablish WLHS’s integrity and reputation among the WLHS constituency and the public. During this time he also served the school’s Board of Directors in making key difficult decisions to put WLHS back on a solid financial ground. After leaving WLHS, Rev. Borgwardt’s prudence was again called upon as he became the administrator for WELS Board for Ministerial Education. Here he guided the restructuring of the synod’s ministerial education system and ushered in new technologies. The Lord has blessed Rev. Wayne Borgwardt with discernment, and the rewards of the decisions that he has made will continue to be realized at WLHS and within the WELS.

    Inducted Saturday, May 7, 2011.

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  • DR. WILLIAM RAASCH

    Class of 1977

    Alumni Leader
    As a promising career in mechanical engineering was about to begin, Dr. William Raasch decided to answer a lingering question of “what if?” by attending medical school at the University of Chicago. Twenty-five years after receiving his M.D. from theUniversity of Chicago, it is difficult to imagine Dr. Raasch working in any other field. A renowned expert in the fields of sports medicine and orthopedic surgery, he has served as team physician for numerous collegiate and professional organizations, including head team physician for the Milwaukee Brewers. In addition, Dr. Raasch has shared his medical knowledge with students as a professor at both the Medical College of Wisconsin and Wisconsin Lutheran College. As a way to give back to his alma mater and increase community outreach, Dr. Raasch regularly serves as the team doctor for WLHS athletics. In a career that has been filled with professional accomplishments, awards, professional publications and lectures, Dr. Raasch believes much of his success has resulted from his adherence to the Christian values emphasized through the teaching and dedication of his instructors and coaches at WLHS.

    Inducted Saturday, May 7, 2011.

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  • JAMES GUENTHER

    Class of 1967

    Stewardship
    One fellow classmate describes Jim Guenther as “the epitome of the Christian leader Wisconsin Lutheran High School intends to develop.” As a faithful steward of the mission and ministry of WLHS, Jim served six years on the WLHS Board of Directors, and four as the board chairman. His service on the WLHS Foundation Board of Directors included chairing the successful Shaping Tomorrow’s Leaders major gifts campaign. He has provided dynamic leadership on a host of other high school committees and task forces, and has established a family scholarship in honor of his father and mother, Bill and Ida Guenther. As a WLHS alumnus, Jim enjoys mentoring WLHS graduates for leadership roles in their home congregations, their professional lives, and for their most important role of all: that of a Christian parent. Over several decades he served the leadership of WLHS as a tireless advocate, as a sounding board for testing ideas, and as a cherished prayer partner. He genuinely enjoys celebrating the many ways in which God has blessed the ministry of WLHS, and for that WLHS will always be grateful.

    Inducted Saturday, May 7, 2011.

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  • DR. JOHN RITCHIE

    Class of 1959

    Alumni Leader
    After graduating from WLHS, John Ritchie received his bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate degrees in political science and, after teaching at the university level for five years, began a distinguished 30-year career as a diplomat with the U.S. Department of State. Entering the ranks of the Senior Foreign Service, his career there was blessed by the Lord as he received the State Department’s Superior Honor Award on four separate occasions. As Coordinator for U.S.-Mexico Border Affairs (2004-2006), John co-negotiated an end to Mexico’s Rio Grande River water debt to the United States. Following his retirement from a career filled with a variety of international experiences, he has continued to serve his country as a liaison officer between the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Congress and as a recognized expert and guest speaker throughout the United States on U.S.-Mexico relations and drug trafficking through Mexico. John has never lost sight of his Christian roots, exemplified by the invaluable guidance he provided to a group of WELS missionaries in the late 1980’s while serving as Chief of External Political Affairs at the U.S. Embassy in Brasilia, Brazil.

    Inducted Saturday, May 7, 2011.

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  • REV. MARK JESKE

    Class of 1970

    Ministry
    While attending seminary for his theological post-graduate education, Pastor Mark Jeske’s ambition to serve was already evident as he started a mission church in Colombia, South America. Once called to St. Marcus Lutheran Church on Milwaukee’s near-north side in 1980 he made a commitment to lead the struggling church and school through troubled times. Not only did he help keep their doors from closing, but he also helped guide St. Marcus to flourish. This growth has included numerous successful outreach ministries. Pastor Jeske has led an ambitious ministry in the form of the televised program Time of Grace, which originally aired on one station in Milwaukee and has grown to be carried on more than 40 stations, numerous cable networks, five different satellite channels, and Armed Forces television. He has written Bible commentary, daily devotional booklets, and articles derived from his Sunday messages. In addition, he is an accomplished instrumentalist who enjoys touring with his church choir. Along with his many passions, Pastor Jeske has shown his love for WLHS in many ways, including the countless hours he has served on the WLHS Board of Directors.

    Inducted Saturday, May 7, 2011.

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  • DALE WALZ

    Athletics
    Dale Walz’s gift for educating Christian leaders through athletics was evident early in his ministry as a 7th grade teacher and coach and then through his years as a very successful coach at Lakeside Lutheran High School. Arriving at WLHS in 1987, Dale was able to build upon an already impressive basketball coaching career over the next 21 years. He retired from coaching after 35 years with a career record of 515 wins and 245 losses, and was shortly thereafter inducted into the Wisconsin Basketball Coaches Hall of Fame. More than just producing victories, however, Dale developed basketball at WLHS as a program, beginning with summer camps for future student-athletes and developing into a system with a consistent philosophy and strategy applied to the students’ progressing skills. Whether it has been in coaching, teaching, or through his administration duties as an assistant principal, Dale has led countless students, through his love for his Savior, to reach their full potential and find success. Many of these students have in turn applied this same motivation to become leaders themselves after their graduation from WLHS.

    Inducted Saturday, May 7, 2011.

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  • ROGER KAMIN

    Stewardship
    For over a quarter century Roger Kamin provided Wisconsin Lutheran High School significant financial stability with his fiscal expertise and faithful stewardship. He was a charter member of the high school’s first Endowment Committee. When that committee was replaced with the WLHS Foundation, Roger served as the Foundation’s first chairman. By the grace of God, and compelled by the love of his Savior, Roger chose to apply the wealth of his financial knowledge to support his passion for the Christian education of children, especially at Wisconsin Lutheran High School. Roger, encouraged and supported by his wife, Ruth, used his God-given wisdom and treasure to impact the lives of generations of students through charter membership in the Wisco Stewards, the Legacy Society, various capital campaigns, and by serving on both the WLHS Board of Directors as well as the WLHS Foundation Board of Directors. WLHS thanks and praises the Lord for blessing Roger with the heart of a true servant leader.

    Inducted Saturday, May 7, 2011.
Hall of Fame 2008 Inductees

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  • DR. WALTER H. DROST

    Class of 1943

    Stewardship
    Dr. Walter Drost is passionate about the ministry of Wisconsin Lutheran High School. His love for Christian education is evident in that Dr. Drost served on the first faculty of WLHS as Guidance Director, teacher of freshman religion, American history, economics, sociology, and American government and as Chairman of the Social Studies Department. While a WLHS teacher, he helped develop the Milwaukee Lutheran Teacher’s College, also housed at WLHS. Dr. Drost was also an instructor at the University of Wisconsin and Associate Professor of Education at Valparaiso and Northern Illinois University. He was instrumental in the founding of Wisconsin Lutheran College in the early 1970s. A lifelong investor, Dr. Drost funds the Dr. Walter H. Drost Endowment Fund, supporting various aspects of the mission of WLHS. Dr. Drost is a model of Christian stewardship ensuring the future of our WLHS ministry and the proclaiming of God’s Word for many generations to come.

    Inducted Saturday, October 18, 2008.

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  • DAVID C. TIMM

    Class of 1959

    Ministry
    David Timm has modeled and epitomized the importance of laymen in the ministry of the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (WELS). His many years of service include being actively involved in numerous WELS organizations. He has served on the boards of WELS Lutherans for Life – Milwaukee Chapter, Wisconsin Lutheran Child & Family Service, and is currently on the board of HOPE schools in Milwaukee. He was the first non-ordained chairman of the Wisconsin Lutheran High School board. David organized the Barnabas Group to encourage lay people to be informed and active in WELS ministry. For the past 16 years David has held the position of Executive Director of WELS Kingdom Workers. He has been an active member of his home congregation, Atonement, and a loyal supporter of Wisconsin Lutheran High School. His zeal and dedication to excellence and service to the Lord is reflected through his faithful leadership. David is thankful to God for blessings in every area of his life. WLHS praises God for David’s dedication, love, and commitment to its ministry.

    Inducted Saturday, October 18, 2008.

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  • RANDALL H. GOEDE

    Class of 1966

    Athletics
    Inducted this day, Saturday, October 18, 2008. Randy Goede has used his God-given talents throughout his life. While attending Wisconsin Lutheran High School, Randy was a successful athlete in basketball and baseball. He was part of the undefeated WLHS basketball team of 1966 and a three-time All-Conference player in baseball. Randy was a scholar athlete, playing baseball and basketball at Valparaiso University. He was an All-Indiana Collegiate Conference pick and an All-American in baseball. Randy went on to play professional baseball in Canada prior to joining his family’s business. In 2007 Randy was inducted into the Valpo Athletic Hall of Fame and the Old Timers Ballplayers Hall of Fame. Randy is a life-long member of his home congregation, St Jacobi, where he has faithfully served for 30 years in various church council positions and coached grade school basketball. Randy values his Christian education at WLHS. Throughout his life Randy has shown dedicated service to the Lord offering his time, talent, and treasures.

    Inducted Saturday, October 18, 2008.

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  • MARK J. WILSON

    Class of 1993

    Athletics
    The God-given gifts of PGA TOUR professional golfer Mark Wilson are evident in his achievements on and off the golf course. During his years at Wisconsin Lutheran High School, Mark was a two-time individual state golf champion. A graduate of the University of North Carolina, he received the Ben Hogan Award in 1996 as the top NCAA student golfer. Mark joined the PGA TOUR in 2003 where he could witness his faith for the world to see. “Golf is an avenue to touch people or influence people If I stayed home because I am simply satisfied with my past success, I would be dishonoring God and the talent he has given me.” Mark won his first PGA TOUR event, The 2007 Honda Classic, in an exciting four-man playoff. Mark has remained dedicated to the Lord and is an excellent role model because of his abilities and Christian values.

    Inducted Saturday, October 18, 2008.

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  • KENNETH L. LEVERENCE

    Ministry
    Ken Leverence is highly regarded and respected for his many years of service at Wisconsin Lutheran High School as a gifted teacher and school administrator. Ken began his teaching career in 1951 at Lutheran High School and retired from Wisconsin Lutheran High School in 1999, serving for 47 years. Ken has the longest teaching tenure, teaching in the same school, than anyone from Lutheran High School or WLHS. He “really truly enjoyed teaching” and is remembered for his unique ability to reach students at all levels. When the decision was made to establish separate Wisconsin and Missouri Synod high schools in 1951, Ken was among a small group of dedicated men to revise and update the entire WLHS curriculum, course by course. Ken was instrumental in the development of many new programs at WLHS, including computer technology. Ken’s service at WLHS and dedication to its ministry are an inspiration to all.

    Inducted Saturday, October 18, 2008.

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  • DR. ALAN G. MERTEN

    Class of 1959

    Alumni Leader
    Dr. Alan Merten has shaped a distinguished career in academia. Dr. Merten earned an undergraduate degree in mathematics from the University of Wisconsin, a master’s degree in computer science from Stanford University, and a Ph.D. in computer science from Wisconsin. He was Associate Dean for Executive Education and Computing Services at the University of Michigan, Dean of the College of Business Administration at the University of Florida, and Dean of the Johnson Graduate School of Management at Cornell University. In 1996 Dr. Merten became the fifth president of George Mason University in Virginia. He has also held academic and business positions in Hungary and France. He was a member of the Virginia Governor’s Blue Ribbon Commission on Higher Education and program chairman of the 1998 World Congress on Information Technology. Currently Dr. Merten serves on several boards. He has been recognized for promoting volunteerism, service to the community, and education excellence. Dr. Merten credits the demanding work ethic and high expectations of teachers at WLHS who prepared him to work hard beyond his high school years.

    Inducted Saturday, October 18, 2008.
Hall of Fame 2005 Inductees

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  • ERICH "PAT" FALK

    1899-1971

    Trace back the athletic roots of Wisconsin Lutheran High School and one will find the name of Rev. Erich Falk, fondly known as “Pat.” He began his teaching ministry in 1928 during those formative years when the school was known as Lutheran High School. Named athletic director in 1931, his name was synonymous with LHS and known throughout the Milwaukee community. He coached the first football teams from 1931 to 1937, and again from 1946 to 1953. Pat coached boys basketball from 1931 to 1949. At the same time, he coached the girls basketball teams from 1930 to 1945. Pat’s combined record in basketball was 331-157 (.678). From 1947 to 1954 he coached boys baseball. When the LHS conference disbanded, he went on to coach at Milwaukee Lutheran High School. Pat distinguished himself as an outstanding coach and a significant figure in the history of WLHS. When he retired in 1965, he spoke these words, “When I leave, I’ll leave with a thousand memories and not a single regret.” WLHS is thankful to God for Pat Falk and these memories.

    Inducted Saturday, April 16, 2005.

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  • DARYL RAABE

    CLASS OF 1966

    Stewardship
    For Daryl Raabe, sharing his time, talent, and treasure with Wisconsin Lutheran High School is a simple labor of love. This is a love for the high school he attended, a love for the school where he once taught, a love for the ministry, a love for the faculty, and a zeal to make WLHS the best it can be. His love and support for the high school is selfless and quiet, and Daryl’s commitment to WLHS and the leadership he has shown by serving on numerous boards and committees is to be commended. His work as a faculty member in the Science Department is valued. His gifts to the high school have impacted programs throughout the institution. His love for the Lord has guided his life in ways he would have never imagined when he graduated from WLHS in 1966, as shown by his work to start-up, launch, and grow Time of Grace Ministry. Wisconsin Lutheran High School is grateful and praises God for Daryl’s dedication, love, and commitment to the WLHS ministry.

    Inducted Saturday, April 16, 2005.

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  • REV. JOHN JESKE

    Ministry
    When one looks at the campus and facilities of Wisconsin Lutheran High School, you are looking at the result of Professor Reverend John Jeske’s vision. The dedicated forefathers of the old Lutheran High School experienced difficulties in convincing others that a new high school was necessary and feasible. In 1951, John, together with a small group of pastors, began planning for this future school. John knew that with God all things are possible. John placed his trust in God to provide the funding, the facilities, the faculty, and the students. He was certain that God would make great things happen at WLHS, as thousands of students passed through its doors. He knew these students would receive a quality academic education, but most importantly, he knew they would grow in their faith in Jesus as their Savior. Wisconsin Lutheran High School is forever grateful to Rev. John Jeske for his vision and dedication to the ministry of WLHS.

    Inducted, Saturday, April 16, 2005.

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  • KENT RAABE

    Class of 1969

    Stewarship
    Kent Raabe is a passionate advocate of Christian education on all levels and a visionary supporter of Wisconsin Lutheran High School. In fact, his enthusiasm for WLHS is part of his very existence. Kent has chaired a capital campaign and served on boards and committees for the school. Kent has also given of his time as a coach, instructor, and consultant. He has been a financial advisor to students involved with the WLHS Plautz and Viking Funds and has mentored students through the Junior Achievement Program. Kent has unselfishly shared his business expertise and knowledge. He has played an integral role in enabling the growth and success of WLHS. There is no doubt that God has blessed Kent with his servant-leader’s heart and charitable spirit. Kent is truly a distinguished steward, alum, and valued friend of Wisconsin Lutheran High School.

    Inducted Saturday, April 16, 2005.

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  • DENNIS KOEHLER

    Class of 1959

    Alumni
    Dennis Koehler has made great use of his God-given abilities. After receiving a Bachelor of Science degree through the ROTC program at the University of Wisconsin—Milwaukee, he served two tours of duty in Vietnam in the U.S. Army. He earned the rank of captain and received many military awards and decorations including the Bronze Star. When his military service was completed, Dennis returned to college to pursue a degree in law. He has served the public as a staff attorney with the United States Environmental Protection Agency, an environmental control officer, an elected county commissioner in Florida, and a private attorney. Dennis is also a founding member of Vietnam Veterans of America, Inc. He has received numerous awards and national recognition for his work with veterans. His pursuit of excellence, his commitment to veterans, and his service to society are to be commended. Wisconsin Lutheran High School praises God for the service mindset of Dennis Koehler.

    Inducted, Saturday, April 16, 2005.

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  • GLENN RAASCH

    Class of 1948

    Athletics
    After graduating from Valparaiso University in 1952, followed by two years in the U.S. Navy, Glenn Raasch returned to his beloved Lutheran High School to join the faculty as a math instructor, coach, and athletic director. His distinguished coaching career as the head basketball coach spanned thirty-two seasons. During these years, Raasch’s teams captured fourteen conference championship titles. His famous 1965-1966 team finished the year with a perfect 21-0 record. His coaching accomplishments won him a place in the Wisconsin Basketball Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 2004. Glenn bridged the transition from Lutheran High School to Wisconsin Lutheran High School, laying the foundation for excellence in academics as well as athletics. He will be remembered for his Christian values, athletic accomplishments, and his devotion to Wisconsin Lutheran High School.

    Inducted Saturday, April 16, 2005.
     

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  • DR. JOAN M. PRINCE

    Class of 1971

    Alumni
    Dr. Joan Prince became the first African-American to graduate from the bachelor’s program in Medical Technology and the master’s program in Clinical Laboratory Sciences at the University of Wisconsin in Milwaukee. At UWM she earned a Ph.D. in Urban Education with a specialty in medical science education. Joan is one of only twelve people nationwide certified in the specialized area of flow cytometry; one of only twenty non-physician members of the American Society of Hematology; and one of three Americans on an international team of eight involved in establishing two health care clinics in West Africa. She is a Vice Chancellor at UWM, a Clinical Associate Professor, and a published author. Joan serves on many local, regional, and national community and foundation boards, including appointments from Wisconsin Governor Jim Doyle and Wisconsin Chief Justice Shirley Abrahmson. She has received numerous local and national awards. Wisconsin Lutheran High School honors Dr. Joan Prince for her prestigious achievements and humanitarian endeavors.
     
    Inducted Saturday, April 16, 2005.

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  • DR. DANIEL SCHMELING

    Class of 1959

    Ministry
    “Other than God and my family, Wisconsin Lutheran High School has had the greatest impact upon my life.” These words from Dr. Daniel Schmeling could also summarize how WLHS feels about Dan, and the profound impact he has had on the direction of the mission of WLHS. Dan has tirelessly served in the ministry for more than forty years: at the elementary level, as principal of WLHS from 1985 to 1990, and as a synodical administrator for WELS Parish Schools. God has used Dan to touch the lives of thousands of students, equipping them with the Biblical values and personal skills necessary for a lifetime of service to Jesus in their homes, churches, careers, and communities. Christian education has been his life-calling. Dan credits this calling to the teachers at WLHS, past and present, who have guided, supported, and encouraged him throughout his career and journey in life. Dr. Schmeling truly exemplifies the mission of Wisconsin Lutheran High School.

    Inducted Satruday,  April 16, 2005.
Hall of Fame 2003 Inductees

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  • RON UNKE

    Class of 1949

    Athletics

    Ron has demonstrated exceptional Christian leadership, character and achievement during his 41 years ministry at WLHS. To this day, he is still lovingly known as “Coach” by the students he coached in baseball (36 years) and football (22 years). At Lutheran High School, he lettered in football, basketball, and baseball. He attended the University of Wisconsin, Madison and was baseball MVP in 1953. He signed with the St. Louis Cardinals that same year. Ron was inducted into the Wisconsin Coaches Baseball Hall of Fame in 1983 and the Wisconsin Old Time Ball Players Hall of Fame in 1993. He received a BS and MS in education from the University of Wisconsin, Madison and received his synodical certification at Milwaukee Lutheran Teachers’ College. Ron assists the Milwaukee Brewers as a baseball youth instructor.

    Inducted April 26, 2003

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Phone: 414-453-4567  |  Fax: 414-453-3001