St. Francis Spirit of - St. Francis of Assisi Parish
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Spirit of
St. Francis
Newsletter for Alumni and Friends of St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Schools, Humphrey, Nebraska
Winter 2020
At the annual Humphrey Veteran’s Day program in November, 10 mem-
bers of the community were given a Quilt a Valor. Quilts of Valor are
given in recognition for their services in the United States Armed Forces.
Members of the Humphrey quilting club, Crafts & Things Quilt Club,
Picture by Pfeifer Photography
started the local chapter of the Quilts of Valor, making these quilts to be
presented to veterans each year. Honored with a quilt this year were front
row l-r: Alvin Kuta (1947), Ray Krings (1966), Tom Wemhoff, Dave
Fuchs (1951), and Jerome Foltz (1954); back row l-r: Mark Foltz (1949),
Ferd Zach (1949), Bob Zach (1949), Bill Albracht (1949), and Gene
Schueth (1955). We thank them, and all our service men and women, for
fighting for our freedom. (Photo courtesy of Pfeifer Photography.)
From the President…
I once again would like to take a moment to thank all of you for your prayers and sup-
port. St. Francis depends on so many people for so many things and we are grateful for
that support. Please continue to pray for us that the students entrusted to our care may
grow in their love for Jesus Christ.
It's been a stellar year so far at St. Francis. The success of our extra-curricular activities
is once again outstanding. Not only did we have state qualifiers in volleyball, cross-country and choir,
but we also had a state championship in football. It was certainly a great fall to be a Flyer!
Less heralded, but certainly not less important, the academic year at St. Francis is firing on all cylin-
ders. We are so blessed with a teaching and administrative staff that understands the priority of educa-
tion.
Of course, these functions of Catholic education pail in comparison with our goal of forming Catholic
disciples. Students are receiving confession and the Eucharist more frequently and this is having a
transforming effect on the student body. I rejoice that so many of our staff and faculty prioritize their
Catholic faith and see their support of the school as a type of ministry.
As a heads up, I wanted to make you aware of the alumni appeal that is about to begin. Your generous
support, both financially and spiritually is essential to the survival of our school, and I can’t thank you
enough for it. If I can ever be assistance, please feel free to contact me.
In Christ,
From the Principal…
Thank you to all who helped support our annual Blue and White Night this year. Your
financial support and, for some of you, your presence at the event helps make the event
successful. This fundraiser directly assists St. Francis School’s operations.
A fellow alumnus, Kim Krings (2013), was invited to school to speak to students about
her call to missionary work. She has joined the Family Missions Company, based out of
Louisiana and has been assigned to Taiwan for two years. She shared with the students what she was
expecting to do when ministering in Taiwan, most importantly bringing the love of Jesus Christ to the
vastly pagan community in which she will be living. Please keep her and her missionary work in your
prayers.
With the high school over 50 years old, the front office doors are in need of replacement. Money for
new doors have been raised, so work on replacing these will begin at the end of this school year.
Thank you to anyone who donated to this specific cause.
I want to thank you for your continued prayers and support. Whether your support is in the form of
prayer, time, talent, or treasure, our students and church benefit. We are one church, encountering
Jesus, equipping disciples, living mercy. May you and your family have a blessed Lenten season.
Blessings,
Jennifer Dunn
The 2019 St. Francis Flyers football team ended a perfect season with a State Championship. After an 8-0 regular season,
the Flyers faced Elgin Public/Pope John in the first round of playoffs. With a 68-6 win, the Flyers met Lawrence-Nelson,
beating them 60-14. With the win, the team traveled to Plainview to take on the pirates. Proving why they were the #1
seed, the pirates were taken down 60-20. In the closest game of the season, the Flyers took on the Fighting Irish of Fall
City Sacred Heart in Humphrey. While it was a one possession game, the blue came out on top, 24-16, earning a spot in
the D-2 Championship at Memorial Stadium. It was here the Flyers met Pleasanton and earned a gold metal with a 70-16
win. Congratulations to our Flyer Football Team and Coaches!
The St. Francis Lady Flyer volleyball team showed with hard work and perseverance, so much it possible. After a 3-2 start
to the season, the Lady Flyers knew they had a lot of work to do if they wanted to achieve their goal of winning a state
championship. With hard work and dedication, the team ended the regular season 23-4, knowing it was now or never. The
Lady Flyers won their subdistrict and district matches, all in 3 sets, earning them a trip to the state tournament in Lincoln.
St. Francis entered the tournament as the #5 seed, with an opening game against Garden County. The Lady Flyers won the
game in 3 sets and next faced the #1 seeded Lawrence-Nelson Raiders. In a very close 5-set match, the Lady Flyers came
out on top, sending them to the state championship at Bob
Devaney Sports Center. Here they faced #3 BDS (Bruning-
Davenport/Shickley). Here the Lady Flyers found themselves
down 2-0 in the final before making a comeback and forcing a
5 set thriller. Unfortunately, we came up short in the end to
finish as State Runner-Up. Congratulations to our Lady Flyer
Volleyball Team and Coaches!
The St. Francis Cross County team may have been small, but
they accomplished many great things. With 3 boys and 4
girls, the team saw great growth throughout the season. In
the Goldenrod Conference meet, the girls team finished 3rd
while the boys team finished 4th. At districts, Leah Podliska
placed 6th and Madison Stricklin placed 12th, both earning a
trip to the State meet in Kearney. Unfortunately, neither one
metaled at state but both competed very well.
In Loving Memory of...
William "Bill" Werner (1960), 76, of Humphr ey, died Thur sday, Nov. 7, 2019, at Columbus Com-
munity Hospital. Bill was born on June 19, 1943, in Humphrey, to Martin and Mildred (Bender) Werner. He
graduated from St. Francis High School, and on June 29, 1963, married Karen Schnitzler at St. Francis Catholic
Church. Bill started a hardware store and appliance business in Humphrey and later expanded to Madison and
Norfolk. He served as a two-term mayor, dedicating his time to Humphrey's needs, and was instrumental in ensur-
ing that a new housing development came into fruition. Bill aided many people in their recovery efforts of alcohol
abuse. He also served several years on the Humphrey Fire and Rescue Squad. Bill served as President and Vice President of
the Athletic Department, Parish Council, Extraordinary Ministers of the Eucharist, financial supporters of both church and
school, as well as countless hours volunteering his time and talent. He loved to travel and for many years fished and hunted
with family and friends. Bill loved wildlife and enjoyed watching the birds, rabbits and squirrels run around the yard. He was
especially proud of his grandchildren and later on his six great-grandchildren. Bill is survived by wife, Karen Werner of
Humphrey; son, Tim (Jill Herink) Werner of Humphrey; daughter, Lisa (Jim) Danson of Lincoln; daughter, Julie (Keith)
Frauendorfer of Royse City, Texas; son, Mike (Jill Pelzer) Werner of Colorado Springs, Colorado; 9 grandchildren and 6
great-grandchildren: Taylor and Chelsea Werner, Hartley and Hank; Jameson and Sara Werner, Jack and Kasen; Jake and
Marissa Werner; Jessica Danson Gul and Ugras Sidar Gul, Defne and Ellis; Jonathon Danson; Megan and Ryan Oliver; Ken-
dall Frauendorfer; Creighton and Sierra Werner; sisters, Betty Pfeifer of York; Mary (Melvin) Dohmen of Sergeant Bluff,
Iowa; Cathy (Ralph) Capazo of Omaha; Pat (Rich) Backes of Broomfield, Colorado; Sharon (Gary) Babel of Omaha; Peggy
(Bob) Peterson of San Tan Valley, Arizona; Connie Golden of Omaha; Sue Wackel of Crete; Rebecca (Dennis) Pick of Oak-
ton, Virginia; Cindy Renfro of Ida Grove, Iowa; and Judy (Mike) Slattery of Lincoln; brothers: Richard (Maureen) Werner of
Lincoln, Tom Werner of Wahoo, Jack Werner of Davis, California, Bob (Donna) Werner of Columbus and Terry (Mary)
Werner of Lincoln; numerous nieces and nephews. Bill was preceded in death by parents, Martin and Mildred Werner; in-
fant brother, Joseph Werner; brothers-in-law, David Golden and Ralph Pfeifer.
Jean (Van Dyke) Kapels (1968), 69, of Cr eston, died Sunday, November 10, 2019, at her home. J ean
was born Feb. 2, 1950, in Greeley, Colorado, to Norbert and Mildred (Luetkenhaus) Van Dyke. She was baptized
on Feb. 12, 1950, in St. Peter's Church in Greeley. On April 27, 1958, Jean received First Holy Communion in St.
Francis Church in Humphrey. She attended elementary and high school at St. Francis in Humphrey, graduating in
1968. On April 19, 1973, Jean was confirmed into St. John's Lutheran Church. Jean was united in marriage to
Robert (Bob) Kapels on Aug. 23, 1969, at St. John's Lutheran Church. To this union five children were born. Jean owned
and operated KBT Lumber and Construction in Creston with her husband since 1977. The Lord has granted wings to our
beloved sister, wife, mother, grandmother, and inspiration. Jean is survived by husband, Robert (Bob) Kapels of Creston;
daughter, Tonya (Kris) Folken of Creston, Gage (Lana) Bender, Kyah, Brenna (Trent) Classen, Rozlyn and Rawlings, Owen
and Colt ; son, Troy (Lanette) Kapels of Wichita, Kansas, Taea and Joshua; daughter, Nicole (Lance) Eberhart of Columbus,
Saylor, Rylee, Adalyn and Jase; son, Travis (Nicole) Kapels of Creston, Dara and Aidan; son, Brett (Bailey) Kapels of
Puyallup, Washington, Maddux and Dash; brother, Don (Mari) Van Dyke of Greenville, South Carolina; brother, Bob (Kay
DeBolt) Van Dyke of North Richland Hills, Texas; brother, Bill (Jean) Van Dyke of Omaha; brother, Gerry (Lou) Van Dyke
of Omaha; brother, Steve Van Dyke of Grizzly Flats, California; sister, Janet Costle of Mesquite, Nevada; sister, Deb
Clausen of Norfolk; sister, Kathy (Jeff) Wagner of Lincoln. Jean was preceded in death by parents, Norbert and Mildred
Van Dyke; parents-in-law, Elmer and Rose Ellen Kapels, Malvern “Buddy” Kapels; sister, Judy Stewart; brother-in-law,
Jerry Stewart; sister-in-law, Karol Van Dyke; nephew, Jeff Van Dyke.
Janette "Tuddy" (Albracht) Schure (1943), 94, of Columbus, for mer ly of Humphr ey, died Sun-
day, Nov. 24, 2019, at Prairie Village in Columbus. Janette “Tuddy” Gertrude Schure was born May 1, 1925, in
Lindsay, to Henry Joseph and Gertrude Mary (Schaecher) Albracht. She attended school in Humphrey and grad-
uated from Humphrey St. Francis High School in 1943, later attending classes at Platte Community College in
Columbus. On Aug. 22, 1945, Tuddy was united in marriage to Richard “Dick” George Schure in Humphrey.
They farmed south of Humphrey for many years before moving into Humphrey in 1990. Tuddy helped on the
farm and also helped as a USDA statistician. Tuddy enjoyed playing games, especially 500 Rummy, sewing,
traveling to national parks or wherever a car would take her. She liked studying family history and going to family gather-
ings. Our beloved Tuddy radiated kindness, love, strength and a zest for life to all she met. She showed us all an amazing
example of how to live. She had an uncanny ability to make everyone around her feel like they had a special place in her
heart, and they probably did. Her heart was endless! Her powerful smile and twinkle in her eyes would light up any room.
Tuddy was selfless, always worrying about someone else, even during her final days. Her laughter, her joy, her comedic tim-
ing, her spunk, her kindness will be her legacy. She could one-up everyone with her always ready and final spoken words, “I
love you more”. Tuddy is survived by daughter, Gayle (Lee) Mausbach of Wheatland, Wyoming; grandchildren: Lisa
(Andrew) Bailey and son Ethan, Becky Mausbach (Ben) and daughter Alisha, Brenda (Jamin) Camp and children Cole,
Chloe and Cooper; son Richard Schure of Humphrey; grandchildren: John (Cyndi) Schure and stepson Joe and grandchild
Keoni, Tom Schure and daughter Chloe; daughter, Janice “Mitzi” (Randy) Vavrina of Clarkson; grandchildren: Kristin (Ed)
Mikkelsen and children Isabella, Theodore and twins Anna and Katherine, Matthew (Patty) Vavrina and sons Marcos and
Lucas, Joseph (fiancée Jessica) Vavrina, Nicholas Vavrina; son, Jess (Sheri) Schure of Columbus; grandchildren: Nathan
Schure, Ryan (Rachel) Schure and children Cash and Charlie, Mike (Rebecca) Schure and children Ivy, Owen and Josie,
Ashley (Jed) Taff and sons Henry, Jack and Nolan; granddaughter, Brandy (James) Davies and sons Ezekiel and Theodore;
grandson, Jason Miksch; brother, Clarence “Bud” (Germaine) Albracht of Humphrey; sister, Mary Ann “Babe” (Carroll)
Kraus of Florida; brother, William “Bill” (Marge) Albracht of Humphrey. Tuddy was preceded in death by parents, HenryIn Loving Memory of...
and Gertrude Albracht; husband, Dick Schure; daughters, Louise Miksch, Sherry Mills; sisters: Sister Leona Emanuel
Albracht, Hildegard (Joe) Fassbinder, Rosella (Louis) Evans, Elizabeth “Betty” (Paul) VanHoozer, Bernadette Albracht,
Clara “Arlie” “Bernie” (Jack) Hannon; brothers: Leander “Shorty” (Germaine) Albracht, Sylvester (Evelyn) Albracht, Har-
old Albracht, Edward (Yvonne) Albracht, Theodore (Rita) Albracht; daughter-in-law, Marilyn Schure.
Teresa (Ternus) Otto (1968), 69, of Lincoln, for mer ly of Humphr ey, passed away Nov. 27, 2019. In
lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family for future designation. Teresa was born on June 13, 1950, in
Humphrey, Nebraska, to Victor and Cecilia (O’Callahan) Ternus. Teresa is survived by her five children: Larry
(wife, Cindy) Wright, Jeremy (fiancée, Hilary) Wright, Stephanie Wright, Jim Wright, Jeff (wife, Carrie) Wright;
11 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren; sister, Marlene (husband, Jim) McDermott; brothers: Jim (wife, Jane)
Ternus, Leonard (wife, Jane) Ternus, Victor (wife, Cindy) Ternus, and Steve Ternus. She is preceded in death by her par-
ents, and sisters Louise Ternus and Cecilia Ternus.
John W. Albers , Sr. DDS (1939) October 27, 1921 - December 5, 2019 Dr. John W. Albers Sr. died
December 5, 2019 at the Bellevue Veterans Home. John was born October 27, 1921 to Dr. John F. Albers and Jo-
sephine (Busch) Albers in Norfolk, Nebraska. Preceded in death by wife, Betty Louise Sheild Albers; parents; two
sisters, Louise Ternus and Mary Jo Thurmond; two brothers, Dr. Hubert Albers and Gerald Albers. Survived by
seven children: John Albers (Jean), Rob Albers (Vicki), Steve Albers (Jan), Margaret Zamzow (Scott), Dave Al-
bers (Vickie), Mike Albers (Peter), Dr. Mark Albers (Carla); brother, Dr. Richard Albers (Marilyn); eight grand-
children; multiple great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews, other family and friends. After graduating from Creighton
in 1952, he practiced dentistry in Humphrey, NE for 33 years.
Raymond Wemhoff (1946), 91, of Humphr ey, died Sunday, December 8, 2019 on the feast of the
Immaculate Conception at his home in Humphrey, surrounded by his family. Donations in his memory may be
made to St. Francis Church or the Humphrey Veterans Memorial Fund. Ray was born on July 12, 1928, in
Humphrey, the son of Theodore and Mary (Wieser) Wemhoff. He attended St. Mary of the Angels School in rural
Humphrey and graduated from St. Francis High School in 1946. On June 2, 1951, Ray and Lenore Eisenmenger
were united in marriage at St. Francis Catholic Church. Shortly after their wedding Ray was deployed to South
Korea to serve in the United States Army. After being injured at the front, he was assigned to the 558th Military Police Com-
pany where he rapidly attained the rank of Sergeant. One of the highlights of his military career was guarding President-Elect
Dwight D. Eisenhower during his visit to Korea in December, 1952. Ray and Lenore farmed the family farm southeast of
Humphrey until the mid-90s, raising seven children. Ray also founded K-W Construction with Jim Krings. Upon the death of
his good friend Kenny Pfeifer, he was asked by Norfolk Mutual Insurance Company to manage Kenny's accounts. He be-
came a field agent and was eventually elected to the Board as Secretary-Treasurer, a position he held for 20 years and to
which he was reelected last summer. He loved to play cards. With five other couples, he and Lenore were members of a
sheepshead club for over 60 years. He was one of the founding members of Steepleview Golf Course and played golf almost
daily until age 88, having the distinction of making two “nests in one” in a tree near the 9th hole. Ray and Lenore took swing
dance classes and enjoyed dancing to the big bands at nearby ballrooms. He was an avid gardener and was very proud of his
lawn; he never felt better than when riding his mower. Ray played basketball in high school and was selected Nebraska All-
State at the center position in 1946, described in the press as a “feared sharpshooter.” He and Lenore were great fans of all
St. Francis High School sports, attending games long after their children and grandchildren graduated. With his good friend
Bob Olmer he would park his pickup at the football field to get a prime view, and they would share a flask of “The Recipe”
to keep warm during the game. Ray belonged to American Legion Post 80 and the Knights of Columbus, also serving as
Grand Knight. He was a man of high integrity and could be depended upon to do the right thing, even when it was hard. He
had a quick and dry wit, and could really deliver a line! Ray is survived by his wife of 68 years, Lenore, children Connie
(Don) Taylor, Marcie (James) Young, Lee (Pam) Wemhoff, Becca Wemhoff, Gina (Kevin) Langin, Rob (Cindy) Wemhoff,
and Jody (Kory) Petersen, 12 grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother Gerard and
brother-in-law Hal Hensle. He was preceded in death by his parents, Theodore and Mary Wemhoff, brothers Leonard, Steve,
Ed, Bill, Clarence, and Vince, sisters Teckla (in infancy), Hildegarde, Marie, Margaret Broadgate, Faye Krings, Theresa
Hensle, and Sister Ann Wemhoff, OFM, and daughter-in-law Carol Ann Wemhoff.
Edward Michael Zach (1942), 95, was called home to be with his Lor d Sunday, December 8, 2019.
Ed was born on September 5, 1924, in Humphrey, Nebraska, and spent his childhood in Humphrey. He served in
the U.S. Army as a paratrooper in World War II. After returning home, he married Beatrice Elaine Steinhoff on
June 7, 1947. Throughout his life, he was an excellent salesman at various different companies. In 1978 he
opened up a successful kitchen cabinet business, E-Z Kitchens in Hastings, Nebraska which is still a family-run
business today. Over their 64 years of marriage, Ed and Elaine always had an open home and open hearts, making
everyone feel like family. They passed on a rich legacy of hospitality to their 11 children and 40 grandchildren. Ed was a
faithful, committed, and devoted husband. He was a man of integrity, honor, and hard work ethic. He had an excellent sense
of humor, a twinkle of mischievousness, a hearty singing voice, an endearing streak of stubbornness, and a love for dancing
with his daughters and granddaughters. Throughout his life, he had a deep devotion to God and in his later years, he had a
strong, heartfelt desire to share his faith in Jesus Christ with others. Ed and Elaine had 11 children together. Ed joins his
wife Elaine and his son, Mike, in Heaven. He is survived by his daughter, Deanna; his daughter-in-law, Cheryl; his daughter
Renee and her husband Tom; his son, Mark and his wife Peggy; his daughter Mary and her husband Bill; his daughter Nola
and her husband Dennis; his daughter Nancy and her husband Armand; his son David and his wife Marsha; his son Rodney
and his wife Barb; his son Charles and Sherri; and his daughter Sonya and her husband Barney. He also had 40 grandchildren
and 38 great-grandchildren — soon to be 42. He was also survived by one brother, Ferdinand.In Loving Memory of...
Doris I. (Pfeifer) Boesch (1944), 93, Humphr ey, died Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, at Mer idian Gar dens
in Columbus. Doris Irene Boesch was born Sept. 20, 1926, in Humphrey, to Charles and Pauline (Bender) Pfeif-
er. She graduated from St. Francis High School in 1944 and on Feb. 27, 1946, was united in marriage to Victor
Boesch at St. Francis Catholic Church. Doris was a lifelong member of St. Francis Catholic Church, a member
of Christian Mothers and attended Mass daily. She enjoyed keeping up on current events, reading several papers
from cover to cover daily. She enjoyed her daily walks and was very family oriented. Doris is survived by two sons, Jack
(Cindy) Boesch of Humphrey and Todd Boesch of Modale, Iowa; a daughter, Janet (Randy) Hanson of Columbus; 17 grand-
children and 10 great-grandchildren. Doris was preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Pauline Pfeifer; her spouse,
Victor Boesch; a daughter, Jill Boesch; two sons, Terry and Tim Boesch; her sisters, Ellen Howe, Violet Glassman and An-
gela Pfeifer; and her brothers, Elmer, Jerome and Charles Pfeifer.
John Krings (1970), age 67, of Columbus died Fr iday, Dec 27, 2019 at his home. J ohn was bor n
Aug. 31, 1952 in Humphrey to Emil and Marie (Torczon) Krings and was baptized at St. Anthony Catholic
Church in rural Tarnov, where he later became an altar server. He graduated from St. Francis High School in
Humphrey, and from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in me-
chanical engineering. On Nov. 5, 1977, he was united in marriage to Sheryl Boesch. The couple have two daugh-
ters, Amanda Lathrop and Karla Neville. He was employed at Nebraska Public Power District for 29 years, supporting fossil
generation plants in various engineering roles. Following retirement in 2005, he held a variety of engineering consultant po-
sitions throughout the United States. John was an avid carpenter and wood-worker, spending many days and hours on home
building and specialty projects. He enjoyed photography, traveling, bicycling and hiking with his wife and daughters, and
playing with and caring for his six grandchildren. He was a member of St. Isidore Catholic Church and the Knights of Co-
lumbus. He participated in Christians Encounter Christ (CEC), the Confraternity of Warriors in Christ, and was a substitute
for Holy Hour at St. Bonaventure Church. Survivors include his wife, Sheryl; daughters Amanda (K.C.) Lathrop of Aurora
and Karla (Charlie) Neville of Columbus; mother Marie Krings of Columbus; six grandchildren: Landen, Logan, Liam, Isa-
bella and Sophia Neville, and Hayes Lathrop; brother Richard (Tina) Krings of Eureka, CA; sisters JoAnn (Karl) Wlaschin
of Columbus, Darlene Krings of Windsor, CO, and Julie (Tim) Sliva of Tarnov. He was preceded in death by his father,
Emil Krings, father-in-law Jerry Boesch and mother-in-law Bernie Boesch, and nephews Craig Wlaschin and Shawn
Boesch. McKown Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Helen O. (Wisehart) Blaser, 89, of Columbus, passed away on J an.5, 2020, at Emer ald Car e Center
in Columbus. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The Alzheimer's Association of Nebraska or St. Stani-
slaus Catholic Church to benefit a new sound system. Helen was born on Sept. 23, 1930, to Romey and Lena
(Labenz) Wisehart in Humphrey. She graduated from Humphrey St. Francis High School. After graduation she
went to business school in Omaha. While in Omaha she was a nanny for several prominent families. She was
united in marriage to Ronald L. Blaser on May 19, 1951, in Pacific Junction, Iowa. They had to roust a priest to
perform the ceremony, which happened to be the late Archbishop Sheehan. The couple returned home to begin their life
together on the farm in Rural Platte County. Mom raised chickens both for the eggs and her famous fried chicken, and hauled
a lot of eggs to town. They were blessed with nine children, filling a whole pew in church at St. Stanislaus by themselves.
Mom was busy attending school functions and countless ball games, missing very few. Although some were watched with
one eye closed, and several were over before her arrival, she still attended. Helen was a member of Evening Belles Exten-
sion Club and St. Ann's Society. She also sang in the choir every Sunday. She joined the work force in the 70's, spending the
next 30 years doing books for Lohr Petroleum. A bookkeeper at heart, she loved “doing her books” at Lohr's and for the
farm. She worked endlessly, never punching a clock, then came home to make supper. After retiring from her day job, she
got a riding lawnmower and found her new passion, mowing the yard. It took her twice as long to mow as someone else
could, but her finished project was done correctly and no flowers were harmed. Even the ditch flowers would survive. She
was an avid flower gardener. Her final years at home were spent watching her grandkids grow up and enjoying the seeds
that she had planted. She never missed anyone's birthday. Some of her favorite pastimes were watching the birds and the
baby goats. The changing of the seasons and holidays always brought her joy. Helen is survived by husband, Ron Blaser of
Columbus; son, Jim (Linda) Blaser of Columbus; grandson, Patrick; son, Steve (Karen) Blaser of Columbus; grandchildren:
Nicholas, Angela, Nathan and Sabrina; son, Jeff (Deb) Blaser of Lincoln; grandchildren: Jesse, Jared and Joel; daughter,
Jeanne Bonk of Columbus; grandchildren: Cassie, Kelly, Cody and Kortney; daughter, Sandy Bargmann of Columbus;
grandchildren: Eric, Jonah, Kristin and Carrie; grandson from son, Anthony C. Blaser – Tony A.; daughter, Barb (Todd)
McQueen of Omaha; grandchildren, Riley and Forrest; daughter, Lori Eigenberg of Warsaw, Indiana; grandchildren, Melissa
and Tyler; son, Jon (Gina) Blaser of Columbus; grandchildren: Jessica, Connor and Colton; 33 great-grandchildren; sister,
Florene Kass of Madison; brother, Chuck (Julie) Wisehart of Seward; brother, Larry (Louise) Wisehart of Humphrey; sister,
Jane (Larry) Zach of Columbus; sister, Linda (Erv) Lindeman of Ainsworth; brother-in-law, Withold Fergin of David City;
sister-in-law, Sue Wisehart of Omaha; brother-in-law, Donald Blaser of Honolulu; sister-in-law, Carol Blaser of San Marcos,
California; many nieces and nephews. Helen was preceded in death by parents, Romey and Lena (Labenz) Wisehart; parents
-in-law, Hector and Minnie (Lemp) Blaser; son, Anthony C. “Tony” Blaser; son-in-law, Dale Bargmann; brothers, Jerome
“Buddy” and William “Bill” Wisehart; sisters, Geraldine “Geri” Fergin and Dolores “Dee” (Marlyn “Hike”) Hendrickson;
brothers-in-law: Wendel Kass, Frederic (Donna) Blaser and Harold Blaser; sister-in-law, Shirley (Erdie) Erdman.
Patrick "Jim" McDermott (1955), 81, of Madison, died Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2020, at Faith Regional Health Services
in Norfolk. Memorials may be directed to St. Francis Church or Creston Rescue Squad. Jim was born Feb. 27, 1938, in
Madison County, to Arthur and Lena (Jacobi) McDermott. He attended school in Humphrey and graduated from HumphreyIn Loving Memory of...
St. Francis High School in 1955. On Nov. 22, 1986, Jim was united in marriage to Marlene Ternus in Humphrey.
He farmed in Madison County his entire life, and also worked for Sand Implement for 10 years. He was a mem-
ber of the Knights of Columbus, enjoyed polka music and old western movies. Jim had a strong passion for old
International Tractors. Jim is survived by wife, Marlene McDermott of Madison; nephew, John L. (Wendy)
McDermott of Leavenworth, Kansas; nephew, Ronald J. (Sue) McDermott of Omaha; nephew, Tom A. (Tina)
McDermott of Elkhorn; several great-nieces and nephews. Jim was preceded in death by parents, Arthur and Le-
na McDermott; brother, John McDermott; infant brother.
Richard (Rich) Joseph Moser Jr. (1971) died at his home in For ney, TX on Wednesday, J anuar y
15, 2020, at the age of 66 after an 18-month battle with cancer. Richard was born on April 17, 1953, at Camp
Rucker, Alabama to Lt. Richard J. Moser Sr. and Germaine Anne (Mausbach) Moser, where his father was sta-
tioned while serving in the U.S. Army. He attended various grade schools and junior high schools in Germany,
Killeen, TX, Ft. Hood, TX and Lawton, OK. He also attended St. Francis Elementary in Humphrey, NE and
graduated from St. Francis High School in 1971. He attended Platte Community College in Columbus and the
University of Nebraska, Lincoln, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration. He mar-
ried Paula (Reyes) at Carswell Air Force Base in Ft. Worth, Texas on March 27, 1993. Richard spent most of his adult life in
the Mesquite-Dallas-Forney, TX area, but as a young adult, he worked at Schuyler Packing Plant, Behlen Manufacturing and
Lindsay Manufacturing from the 1970s into the 1980s. He was a Humphrey Schools student bus driver from 1977-1980. He
joined the Nebraska Army National Guard Company C 1/134th Infantry (Mechanized) in Columbus, NE in June 1980 and
served until his honorable discharge in 1989, attaining the rank of Staff Sergeant. Following his college graduation, he was
employed with the Nebraska State Department of Banking in Norfolk, NE. In 1989 Richard accepted a job offer as an Exam-
iner with Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas and relocated to Dallas, TX. He was promoted to a Senior Examiner December 1,
2001. Richard retired on May 1, 2017 following 28 years of service. Richard was a devoted husband and loving father. He
spent many hours coaching the middle school basketball teams for his son and daughter as well as serving as volleyball
coach while they were both students at St. Pius X Catholic School in Dallas, TX and he volunteered regularly for his chil-
dren’s Boy Scout and Girl Scout troops. He enjoyed golfing with his Federal Reserve Work League team, he loved ocean
liner cruising, trips to Las Vegas, and taking family vacations. He never forgot his roots in Nebraska and continued to make
frequent trips to visit family and friends and remained a dedicated Husker Football fan. Richard played on the Humphrey
Fast Pitch Men's Softball Team in the 1970s and was their primary pitcher. He would travel back to Humphrey to play in the
St. Francis Alumni basketball tournament when he was able. His favorite baseball team was the New York Yankees; he was
a lifelong fan. He was an avid Dallas Cowboys and Texas Rangers fan and could be seen at many home games as a long-time
season ticket holder for both teams. He enjoyed watching old Westerns and loved the outdoors. One of his favorite recent
retirement pastimes was working the land on his ranchette in Cooper, TX. He was an active member of St. Martin of Tours
Catholic Church in Forney. He will be deeply missed by his friends, family, and all who knew him. Richard is survived by
his wife, Paula, of Forney, TX, two children, Richard (Ricky) J. Moser III of Forney, TX and Ana Maria Moser of Lincoln,
NE, two sisters, Terese (Moser) (Stephen Mark) Roberts of Brownsville, TX, and Mary Anne (Moser) (Jerry) Classen of
Lincoln, NE, four brothers, Michael (Mike) Moser of York, NE, Charles (Chuck) Moser of Humphrey, NE, Nicholas (Nick)
(Sheri) Moser of Scottsdale, AZ and William (Bill) Moser of Dodge, NE, along with numerous nieces and nephews. He was
preceded in death by his parents, Retired Major Richard J. Moser Sr. and Germaine Anne (Mausbach) Moser, both from
Humphrey, NE, paternal grandparents Joseph Moser and Angela (Melcher) Moser of Humphrey, NE and maternal grandpar-
ents Nicholas Mausbach and Anna (Pillen) Mausbach of Humphrey, NE. The family has requested donations in memory of
Richard Moser, Jr. be made to St. Martin of Tours Capital Campaign, 9470 County Road 213, Forney, Texas 75126.
Germaine Mary (Zach) Albracht (1942), 95, died Thursday, January 23, 2020, at Prairie Village Re-
tirement Center in Columbus. Germaine donated her body to science. Germaine was born March 16, 1924, in
Humphrey, the daughter of John and Johanna (Brockhaus) Zach. She attended and graduated from St. Francis
High School, graduating class of 1942. On Sept. 19, 1945, Germaine and Clarence (Bud) were united in marriage
at St. Francis Catholic Church. Germaine devoted her life to raising her eight children. She was an avid gardener
and loved her flowers. Germaine was a wonderful baker and cook. She was best known for her famous Kuchen.
Germaine was a lifelong member of St. Francis Church. She was a member of Christian Mothers, serving as pres-
ident; Catholic Daughters of the Americas, serving as regent; and Sewing Ladies, serving as leader. Germaine was also a
member of various card clubs and extension clubs. She was a faithful parishioner and donated many hours to the church and
school Germaine enjoyed traveling and visiting with her family. Once it became more difficult for her to go places, she an-
ticipated and cherished phone calls from family and friends. Germaine is survived by husband, Clarence (Bud) Albracht;
son, John Albracht of San Antonio; son, Jerry Albracht of Humphrey; daughter, Connie (Randy) Cookus of Overland Park,
Kansas; son, Dan (Phyllis) Albracht of Berthoud, Colorado; son, Steve (Sandy) Albracht of Humphrey; daughter, Amy (Pat)
Hegemann of Columbus; son, Ron Albracht of Fort Collins, Colorado; son, Dale (Jill) Albracht of Arlington; 13 grandchil-
dren; 18 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents; granddaughter, Tawny Cookus; sisters: Bernice
Baumgart, Sally Heinen and Lola Jane Rankin; and brothers, Stan and Gene Zach.
The St. Francis journalism class, under the supervision of Tina (Boesch) Schumacher (1986), is currently managing a
webpage, HSF Dispatch, with information of what is going on around St. Francis. These include quotes, pictures, and arti-
cles. Some of this will be published in the alumni newsletter but it has a lot of fun extras too. If you would like to keep up-
dated on school news and events, you can go to https://www.hsfdispatch.org/ (password of GoBigBlue, no spaces).Memorials and Gifts
+ Thelma Veik
St. Francis Cemetery Endowment + Janette ‘Tudy’ Schure
St. Francis General School Fund St. Francis General School Fund
St. Francis General Church Fund
Austin Steven Classen Scholarship Fund + Pat & + Rita Fox
Mary Helen Fuchs Scholarship Fund Diane Twidwell Fox- Pat & Rita Fox Scholarship
+ Eileen Wessel + Ray Wemhoff
St. Francis Cemetery Fund St. Francis Cemetery General Fund
St. Francis Church Endowment St. Francis School General Fund
St. Francis General School Fund St. Francis Church General Fund
Austin Steven Classen Scholarship Fund Austin Steven Classen Scholarship Fund
Mary Helen Fuchs Scholarship Fund Mary Helen Fuchs Scholarship Fund
Kevin Wemhoff Scholarship Fund Kevin Wemhoff Scholarship Fund
+ Bill Werner + Stanley Zach
St. Francis Cemetery Endowment St. Francis School General Fund
St. Francis Cemetery Maintenance Fund
St. Francis Church Endowment + Pat Zach
St. Francis School Endowment Robert & Leila Bradley- St. Francis School General
St. Francis General School Fund Fund
St. Francis School Wish List
Austin Steven Classen Scholarship Fund + Dr. John Albers
Mary Helen Fuchs Scholarship Fund St. Francis Church General Fund
Kevin Wemhoff Scholarship Fund
Sr. Bernice Scholarship Fund + Sam “Otto” Warth
St. Francis Scholarship Fund Jeanette Warth- Sam “Otto” Warth Scholarship Fund
Doug Lebbert- Sam “Otto” Warth Scholarship Fund
+ Ann Keller
St. Francis Church Endowment Erv & Elaine Eisenmenger
St. Francis School Wish List St. Francis General School Fund
St. Francis General Church Fund
Duane & Phyllis Vavra
+ Francis Sand St. Francis General School Fund
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Nebraska- St. Francis
General School Fund Larry & Mary Beth Eisenmenger
St. Francis General School Fund St. Francis General Church Fund
Richard & Pat Pavel- St. Francis General Church
Fund Charles & Beth Chevalier
The Clark Enersen Partners- St. Francis General St. Francis General Church Fund
Church Fund
DMSI- St. Francis General Church Fund Big Red Bash
St. Francis General Church Fund St. Francis Techology Fund
Austin Steven Classen Scholarship Fund
Mary Helen Fuchs Scholarship Fund Catholic Order of Foresters
Kevin Wemhoff Scholarship Fund St. Francis Technology Fund
St. Francis Technology Fund
Rob Albers
+ Jacob Leake St. Francis School General Fund
Michael & Beth Leake- St. Francis General Church
Fund Jim Hassenstab
St. Francis Church General Fund
2020 Alumni Banquet Officers
President: Nick Olmer 2004
Vice President: Susan Rollman Lindsley 2009
Secretary: Cara Eisenmenger Wegener 2009
Treasurer: Sam Zach 2014St. Francis Gift Opportunities
____ Church Endowment Fund ____ St. Francis Scholarship
____ School Endowment Fund ____ Sr. Bernice Scholarship
____ Cemetery Endowment Fund ____ Mary Helen Fuchs Scholarship
____ General Church Fund ____ Austin Steven Classen Memorial Scholarship
____ General School Fund ____ Kevin Wemhoff Memorial Scholarship
____ Cemetery Maintenance Fund ____ Widhalm Medical Scholarship
____ Parish Religious Education (PRE) Program ____ Pat & Rita Fox Scholarship
____ St. Francis School Wish List ____ Other _________________________________
Alumni continue to play an important role in the future of St. Francis Parish and Schools. We, as alumni, have much for
which to be thankful, and your gift is a way to show gratitude for the Catholic education you received and the sacrifices your
parents and grandparents made. Your donation helps to ensure the future of St. Francis and a quality Catholic education for
the youth of our area. Thank you for your generous contribution. Also, St. Francis Schools and St. Francis Church are both
501(c)3 charities. Please ask your employer if they have a matching gift program to benefit our church and school.
Donations of $250-$499
Alumni Appeal Donations
Bruce Reichmuth Class of 1968 Wilfrid Rollman Class of 1960
Pat (Chaulk) Reichmuth Class of 1969 In memory of Mr. & Mrs. John & Ellen Rollman
Alumni Appeal Donations from Alumni Banquet
Gina (Wemhoff) Langin Class of 1979 Mary Anne (Moser) Classen Class of 1974
In honor of Ray & Lenore Wemhoff In memory of Richard J Moser Sr.
Mary (Rollman) McGuire Class of 1969 Linda Kwapniowski
Karen (Eisenmenger) Carlson Class of 1974 In memory of Richard Kwapniowski
In memory of Bowen George Carlson Judy (Jaworski) McCarty Class of 1979
Tim Ternus Class of 1999 In memory of Ray Jaworski
Sergeant First Class Jared Wiehn, a 2003 graduate of Humphrey St.
Francis, is no stranger to being deployed and fighting for our coun-
try. During his last deployment, he brought a little something back to
share with his alma mater.
Having signed up for the National Guard in 2002 between his junior
and senior years of high school, he went to basic training for 9 weeks
in Fort Jackson, South Carolina the summer directly after his senior
year in 2003. Then immediately after basic training, he was put on a
bus and sent to Fort Lee, Virginia for AIT (Advanced Individual Train-
ing) for 8 weeks of training as a Unit Supply Specialist. The job of a
unit supply specialist is the general upkeep and maintenance of all Army supplies and equipment.
Jared was first deployed in February of 2004 to Iraq and returned home in January of 2006. He wasn’t deployed
again until June 2016 when he went to Kuwait, returning in January 2017. His latest deployment was in January
2019 to Afghanistan, returning home on November 24, 2019.
While on his most recent deployment Jared ordered 4 flags off the internet that represented Humphrey St. Fran-
cis that he flew on his chinook on combat tours. Of the 4 flags, one was donated to the Blue & White Night
fundraiser, 1 was lost when his helicopter went down on a combat mission, and the other 2 are hanging in a
wooden frame in the St. Francis high school and grade school. Pictured above is Jared holding the flag out of
his chinook on a certificate of authenticity. (Article written by Trevor Pfeifer for HSF Dispatch.)
LET US PRAY
Please keep in prayer our beloved Alumni and the families of those serving in the Armed Forces,
along with all U.S. soldiers, who are serving worldwide in harms way.AMONG OUR GRADUATES
BIRTHS ANNIVERSARIES
Jeff (2000) & Cr ystal Hassenstab
Son - Kade Andrew - November 1, 2018
60 Years
Andy (2000) & Ashley Classen Bob & Lorraine Hamling (1958) Schnitzler
Daughter – Hailey Ann – September 17, 2019 November 21, 1959
St. Francis Catholic Church, Humphrey, NE
Matt & Chelsie Wemhoff (2005) Croghan
Son - Kade Timothy - October 5, 2019
55 Years
Aaron (2010) & Car a Wieser Warren & Catherine Backes (1964) Jannsen
Son – Cooper James – October 8, 2019 November 26, 1964
St. Francis Catholic Church, Humphrey, NE
Eric (2014) & Kate Ternus
Son - Alyosha Benedict-Maria - November 12, 2019
50 Years
Joe & Jaimie Bender (2005) Vacha Duane & Phyllis Zuerlein (1968) Vavra
Son - Henry Ladislav – November 14, 2019 October 18, 1969
St. Francis Catholic Church, Humphrey, NE
Miles & Melissa Hemmer (2004) Peterson
Son – Kirk Gregory – November 14, 2019
40 Years
Jared & Nicole Molczyk (2003) Keedy Keith (1974) & Pam Wemhoff (1979) Pfeifer
Daughter – Adalynn Lea – November 27, 2019 October 27, 1979
St. Francis Catholic Church, Humphrey, NE
Brandon (2000) & Angela Zach
Son – Wylder John – December 13, 2019 Terry & Jeanette Wemhoff (1978) Helmer
November 17, 1979
Nathan (2007) & Taylor Bender St. Francis Catholic Church, Humphrey, NE
Daughter - Emma Lynn – December 17, 2019
Brandon (2014) & Jennifer Wemhoff (2011) Weidner 25 Years
Daughter – Kara Lynn – December 18, 2019 Dale (1983) & Gina Eisenmenger
January 7, 1995
Jared (2009) & Kim Heinen Peace Lutheran Church, Columbus, NE
Son – Zane Elijah – December 25, 2019
Ryan (2009) & Danielle Hassenstab
Son - Jaxon Ryan - December 31, 2019
Craig (2005) & Shelby Krings (2009) Ternus
Daughter – Charlotte Faye – January 1, 2020
MARRIAGES
Jake McPhillips (2008) & Samantha Welch
Rick & Laura Brockhaus (2009) Poppe November 9, 2019
Daughter - Holland Anne – January 19, 2020 St. Francis Catholic Church, Humphrey, NE
Chance Boesch (2003) & Ir ene Patton
Trey Jenkinson & Rachel Herchenbach (2015)
Daughter – Grace Marie – January 20, 2020
November 30, 2019
Josh & Nicole Bender (2003) Pollema St. Francis Catholic Church, Humphrey, NE
Daughter – Andie Alivia – January 23, 2020
Tyler Kuper & Stephanie Baumgart (2011)
Trae Deeder & Andrea Arreguin (2014) January 18, 2020
Daughter - Sophia Rae – January 28, 2020 St. Francis Catholic Church, Humphrey, NE
The Mission of St. Francis Schools
St. Francis of Assisi Schools will provide a faith-filled environment for all students to achieve
academic excellence and spiritual growth based on Gospel values and Catholic traditions.AMONG OUR GRADUATES
Hannah Schroeter (2016) gr aduated fr om Southeast Community College in December 2019. She ear ned
an Associate’s Degree in Horticulture and Turfgrass Management. Hannah is working at Rumery Lawn and Landscape
in Seward as a greenhouse assistant and will attend the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in August to get a Bachelor’s
Degree in either Horticulture or Ag Business.
Pete Zach (2015) gr aduated fr om the Univer sity of Nebr aska-Lincoln with a Bachelor of Science Degree in
Natural Resources and Environmental Economics. He was offered a position for the Health Department in Lincoln as an
air quality specialist. Pete enjoys coming back to Humphrey to see family and the community. He looks forward to help-
ing regulate air pollution and the insure a healthy, protected environment for generations to come.
Rose (Lohaus) Krysl (1951) is enjoying r etir ement in Wyoming. She is keeping her self active, attending
water aerobics four times a week. Nice job Rose!
To preach the gospel and serve the poor is the message Kim Krings (2013) wants to share. Krings returned to her
roots on Tuesday, January 7, to speak to the students and faculty about her upcoming missionary service in Taiwan as a lay
Catholic missionary for the Family Missions Company headquartered in Louisiana.
From the moment she stood in front of us, Kim showed her excitement and love for serving others and her Faith.
She shared with us many amusing stories along with the account of answering her call. Kim had been pondering the idea of
becoming a missionary for the longest time, but she never knew if this was God’s plan for her. During a time of reflection
and prayer at a bible study she called out to Jesus and Saint Therese of Lisieux to send her a rose as a sign if she was meant
to be a missionary. Moments after her prayers, the bible study leader and close friend asked her to take a look at her new
phone background-- which was indeed full of roses. Right then Kim knew the answer to all her questions and decided to
answer the call by applying to Family Missions Company.
Kim moved to Louisiana in June to start her new life of service to others. She currently lives in large house with
seven other single women and a family of five. Others from around her neighborhood regularly meet in her home to eat
meals and join in conversation, which always begins in song and prayer. She spent the summer of 2019 as an intern for the
Family Missions Company doing office work and many other service projects until she began missionary training in Sep-
tember. One presentation Kim remembers vividly from her training was a speech on breakfast. The speaker asked those in
attendance, “Out of all the breakfast food which animal gives the most? Though the cow gives up some milk and the chick-
en may give and egg or two, the pig gives his life for us to enjoy sausage. The message: “Be the Bacon.” This encourages
us to give our whole self up is the service of others for Jesus. To kick start her missionary career Kim is being sent to Tai-
wan to live and serve with another woman (who is from Nebraska City) and a family of five. Kim explained that being
poor can mean having very little money, but it also means living
without a knowledge and understanding of Christ and His great love
for us. Though many residents who live in Taiwan have homes and
running water, they are poor in that they do not have the knowledge
of Jesus. She and her fellow missionaries will be working to “preach
the gospel and serve the poor” the mission statement of the Family
Missions Company.
After her presentation, Kim was presented a check from St.
Francis to assist with the funding needed for her to be a missionary.
(Articles written by Peighton Eisenmenger for the HSF Dispatch.)
We are currently needing updated addresses or information about the following alumni. If you have
an updated address or know any information about these individuals, we would love to hear from you!
Also, if you are a recent graduate and have moved into a place of your own, please let us know your
current address so mailings get to you and not your parent’s house. You can email Missy with updates
at mbraun@hsfschool.org or call the Parish Office at (402) 923-0913. Thank you for your help!
Loyola (Duesman) Rodgers - 1945 Jaine Babel - 1984
Lois May (Preister) Koelzer - 1945 Ann Marie (Leick) Walters - 1987
Lois (Haschke) Micek - 1953 Austin Costello- 2006
Mary (VanAckeran) Kent - 1968NON-PROFIT
SPIRIT of ST. FRANCIS ORG.
P.O. Box 116 U.S.POSTAGE
Humphrey, NE 68642-0116 PAID
PERMIT NO. 262
OMAHA, NE.
ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED
Attention Parents
If you are receiving your child’s
mail, please call the Parish Office to
update their address!
St. Francis of Assisi Catholic School
P.O. Box 277, Humphrey, NE 68642
Phone: (402) 923-0818 Fax: (402) 923-1590
President: Fr. Eric Olsen (esolsen@archomaha.org)
Principal: Mrs. Jennifer Dunn (jdunn@hsfschool.org)
www.humphreystfrancis.com
“Among Our Graduates” - What’s Happening in Your Life?
Name___________________________________ (Maiden) ___________________________ Class of ___________
Address _________________________________ City ______________________ Phone_____________________
State ______ Zip ____________ E-mail___________________________ Children___________________________
Your Employer__________________________________ Your Occupation________________________________
Spouse’s Employer_______________________________ Spouse’s Occupation_____________________________
Other information you wish to share__________________________________________________________________
___ This information may be used in the Spirit Newsletter. ___ I prefer that this information not be published.
Please return to St. Francis, c/o Development Office, PO Box 116, Humphrey, NE 68642
Please Update Your Address
Please update your address by contacting Missy at the Parish Office at 402-923-0913, by emailing her at
mbraun@hsfschool.org, or contacting her on Facebook with a change of address. After each mailing, we
spend 56 cents per address update given to us by the postal service. Your help in saving us money and notify-
ing us with a change of address is greatly appreciated.You can also read
