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In Memoriam Archives
Sister Linda Avilla (Michaelinda)
Sister Terese Bartl (Sigfrid)
Sister Imeldine Bohlinger
Sister Patricia Collins (Marjean)
Sister Patricia Cullen
Sister Eve Evers (Alpheus)
Sister Magdalita Gubbels
Sister Rosalita Hurley
Sister Rita Kaminsky (Erwin)
Sister Mary Kornely (Raymond)
Sister Maxine Kruger
Sister Helen Schrauth
Sister Marian Schreiner (Theodista)
Sister Helen Schulteis (Aloysiana)
Sister Pauline Shamaj
Sister Marie Sibbel (Athanasia)
Sister Herlinda Wolf
Sister Linda Avilla (Michaelinda)
Born: December 12, 1926
Died: March 4, 2008
Funeral Commentary by Sister Ritaclare Johnson
Sister Linda was born in Sioux Falls, South Dakota on December 12, 1926 to Peter Avilla and Conscension Agilera both of Mexico. Sister Linda has always been close to her family having grown up with four sisters and five brothers. She graduated from Saint Mary’s Academy in Del Rapids, South Dakota.
Sister Linda made up her mind to become a religious on her First Communion day. Later at a Catholic Music Festival in Madison, South Dakota, she came into contact with the School Sisters of St. Francis from Howard, South Dakota. Sister Paraclete took her to the convent to talk and in 1949 Linda Theresa Avilla entered the convent. She was received in June of 1950.
For the most part, Sister Linda proclaimed the Gospel with her life by her “ability to incorporate academic knowledge with a real pastoral concern.” Her area of special interest was in the area of peace and justice. Her Franciscan charism made her sensitive to the needs of the poor and outcast with whom she labored in a variety of situations.
After Vatican II, Sister became interested in teaching Native Americans and so she taught in a public school in Chinle, Arizona for ten years. The people there loved Sister Linda. Her teaching in Texas was also to the poor and outcast population. Wherever Sister Linda taught she gravitated to her ministry of peace and justice on behalf of the people to whom she ministered. During her teaching in these areas Sister Linda continued to pursue studies through the Pastoral Institute in San Antonio, Texas.
Although, Sister Linda received a teaching award in Texas and was well loved and respected wherever she ministered, she never talked about herself. Sister Linda was a strong woman of faith having accepted the suffering that came to her. She was an intensely spiritual person. These are the graces that God gave this woman who wanted to belong to God with her whole being. Her special sense of humor brought us joy and laughter that will not be forgotten.
Sister Linda, you were so endeared by the Native Americans you ministered to that we will say farewell with the Indian Farewell.
Until we meet again may the Great Spirit make sunrise in your heart.
And may your moccasins make tracks in many snows yet to come.
Sister Terese Bartl (Sigfrid)Born: July 25, 1913
Died: March 1, 2008
Funeral Commentary by Sister Ritaclare Johnson
Often in community we don’t notice the little things that are done on our behalf. Although, Sister Terese seemed always to be first in the food line, it was because we didn’t notice her small service for us. I happened to be in the dining room when I observed Sister Terese very carefully preparing the silverware for the rest of the sisters. She would fold the cloth that covered the silverware and put it away graciously. This way when the sisters moved in the food line the silverware was ready to take. This was a small thing that went unnoticed but it was a service for her fellow sisters. In these last days of Sister Terese’s declining health she was unable to do this service as she knew the Lord was getting ready to welcome her in His eternal home. She told me one day, “I know God is ready for me and I hope I am ready for God.”
Sister Terese, you were ready after all your years of dedicated service and willingness to serve wherever needed. Sister was a homemaker but often helped in the library or classroom. Her first mission was Our Lady of Victory in Chicago, moving on to Aurora, Illinois. Sister Terese also served in Iowa, Nebraska, and Wisconsin.
Born at St. Nazianz, Wisconsin on July 25, 1913 Sister Terese grew up with seven brothers and three sisters. The School Sisters became acquainted with Sister Terese at an early age when she delivered produce to the sisters and attended school. One day as she delivered the produce, one of the sisters said to her, “you’ll be a sister someday”. The following June, Sister Terese said, “I could not put off the call to dedicate my life as a sister. She was received in June 1935 and given the name Sister Siegfried which meant “Love of Peace.”
Besides her dedicated life to community, Sister Terese never turned down a chance to travel. As she said, “I was privileged to go to Fatima, Medjugorie, and Hawaii. My days traveling to these areas were days of prayer and meditation. They were indeed laden with peace, never to be forgotten.”
Sister Terese, you will be with us during Holy Week and of course you are already enjoying the resurrection. Sister Terese’s last sentence in her autobiography was, “I choose to spend my later years in Campbellsport to help wherever I can and to spend more time in prayer and move gracefully toward my eternal glory for which I yearn.”
Born: May 17, 1917
Died: March 17, 2008
Funeral Commentary by Sister Ruth Brings
Sister Imeldine was born in Waumandee, WI, May 17, 1917 - the sixth child of Mary Ann (Mammie) and Frederick Bohlinger, and was named Lorine Catherine. There was excitement, not only in their home on that day, but also in the barn where a little colt was born on the same day.
Lorine Catherine grew up on a farm surrounded by the picturesque scenery of the Mississippi River bluffs of western Wisconsin. She often spoke of her family’s home as a place where the skies were blue and the snow was white.
Lorine Catherine attended St. Boniface School where she was taught by the School Sisters of St. Francis. Inspired by their example, Lorine Catherine felt called to the religious life. On August 30, 1932, at the age of 15, Lorine Catherine left home for St. Joseph Convent in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
The first months were hard for Lorine Catherine as she missed her family greatly and was very homesick. But she was kept busy with school, prayer, and work. Two years later on June 13, 1934, Lorine Catherine was received into the community of the School Sisters of St. Francis. She was given the name Sister Imeldine and began her novitiate training with 67 classmates. In her autobiography Sister writes that in the novitiate, “they learned the art of prayer, hopefully, and the study of the rule by which they were to live their life.”
Sister Imeldine made her first vows on August 12, 1936 and was ready to go wherever she would be sent. Sister Imeldine’s first mission was Naperville, Illinois where she served as a homemaker for 11 sisters. For the next 45 years she enjoyed cooking for the Sisters in Charlesburg, Wisconsin; Buffalo Grove, Illinois; Bow Valley, Nebraska; Howard, South Dakota and several other places.
In 1980 Sister Imeldine came to Campbellsport to live at St. Joseph Convent. In her autobiography she writes she came “as a volunteer.” Her years of volunteering stretched into over 20 years of service at St. Joseph Convent. Shortly after Sister arrived, she worked in the bakery making the bread used for meals. After nine years of working in the bakery, Sister Imeldine took an upholstery course and began upholstering furniture. Her skill at upholstering led to another skill - that of making drapes, shades, and curtains used as window dressings in the convent. In between, Sister Imeldine kept busy sewing, and sometimes ripping, hundreds, if not thousands of name tags on items used in the convent. Hard-working, industrious, conscientious, diligent, meticulous, particular, unassuming and quiet are words used to describe Sister Imeldine by those who worked with her.
Sister was a prayerful person. Her prayer was her work and her work was her prayer. In later years as her health declined, she retired from active work to spend more time in prayer and reflection “in her hermitage, her bedroom!”
Today Easter Monday, we say goodbye to Sister Imeldine. May she be joyfully united with the Risen Christ, her Lord and Savior!
Sister Patricia Collins (Marjean)
Born: March 18, 1937
Died: January 24, 2008
Funeral commentary prepared by Sisters Rosalie King, Celestine Schall and Irene Zuiker
In Superior, Wisconsin, the year 1937, Emmett and Lucille Sweeney-Collins announced the birth of a baby girl, Patricia Collins. Patricia’s birthday will always be remembered in this very Irish Collins family for the fact that this baby was born just one hour after the feast of St. Patrick, the saint so well loved by the Irish. (Later in life Sister Pat made up for it by celebrating her birthday for two days, the 18th but also the 17th.)
Two years after Pat’s birth, Mary Jean, her only sibling, was born. (No one could have predicted the bond that would develop between these two sisters in adult life.)
When Pat was in fifth grade, the Collins family moved to Milwaukee where Pat and her sister completed elementary education at Holy Redeemer School and secondary education at Messmer High School.
At the age of 18, Pat entered the SSSF community in Milwaukee and at reception in 1956 took the name Marjean. Her mission life began at Madonna High School in Aurora. Sister Pat’s ability to manage a household and do so with grace and creativity did not go unnoticed. After one year she was assigned to the larger School Sister community at St. Benedict High School in Chicago.
Her years of service at St. Benedict’s were marked by the legendary Irish and Franciscan spirit that emanated from that house and Sister Pat was at the heart of it. Not only the sisters in the house felt this spirit but so did every visitor. She reveled in planning and preparing grand feasts for all holidays and jubilee celebrations not only for the sisters, but also for their relatives and friends.
Because Pat loved so easily, she always had many friends and was loyal to them for a lifetime. Pat was known to love “to shop ‘til you drop.” Many sisters would invite her as a companion on their shopping trips because they appreciated her help in making their selections.
In 1988 St. Benedict School closed. Sister Pat had completed 29 years of service at this, her second mission.
Sister Pat was invited in 1988 to join the support staff at Alverno College. For the next 17 years she turned her talents to serving the Alverno students as staff in the Assessment Center. Her appreciation for people, especially students, was evident in her concern and empathy for students in need but she also saw and shared with them the humor she saw in life situations. Sister Pat retired from Alverno in 2005.
There are a few things that have not been mentioned.
- Her loyalty to the Chicago Cubs and Chicago Bears remained undaunted throughout life no matter how they scored.
- One big trip that Sister Pat made was the trip in 1996 to Ireland. In this “the trip of a lifetime” with “Jeannie” her sister and Sister Maria Terese, she found a part of her heart in this loved land.
- Sister Pat was friend and colleague to many but her relationship with her sister, Mary Jean, was special throughout their adult life. They were sisters who laughed, argued and appreciated the gift of sisterhood.
- A highlight of Sister Pat’s life was singing with the SSSF Chicago Area Singers. She loved singing but equally cherished the friendship and camaraderie of the choir members. Sister Maria Terese Patterson was the first director and Sister Ellen Mary Schwaiger was the first accompanist of the Chicago Province Singers currently known as the Chicago Area Singers. Sister Pat was a member from the time it started until now. This evening we are sure that Sister Pat is singing along with the Chicago Area Singers who join us tonight to celebrate Sister Pat’s life.
- Although Sister Pat appreciated her friendship with many School Sisters, in these last years of what appeared to be chronic illnesses, her gratitude to her friend Sister Maria Terese was without measure and periodically she would quietly mention that to others.
In the past, Sister Pat invited many people to celebrate with her on any occasion. On this day we celebrate her life and her many gifts shared with so many others. Today, we celebrate with you, Sister Pat, and thank you for your years of service and the gift of life you shared with us.
Born: June 18, 1914
Died: March 19, 2008
Funeral Commentary by Staff at Sacred Heart Convent in Milwaukee
Sister Patricia (Margaret) was born in Olean, New York, to Andrew and Mary Alice Cullen on June 18, 1914. Her father worked as an air-brake inspector for New York Central Railroad. Besides being proud of her Irish ancestry, Patricia claimed her Irish wit from both parents. She graduated from Holy Family Grade School in Buffalo, New York. Later her family moved to Chicago, Illinois. In 1933, she graduated from Englewood High School in Chicago, Illinois.
Sister Patricia was preceded in death by her sister Dorothy and Sister Frances Ann. During the 1990s, Sisters Patricia and Frances Ann had the opportunity to live together at Marian Hall. Later Sister Frances Ann needed more care and moved to Sacred Heart Convent. Sister Pat lovingly made daily trips to see Frances, and did all she could possibly do for her sister.
For 27 years, Sister Patricia served in the field of education as a high school teacher. Her ministry spanned the three states of Minnesota, Wisconsin and Illinois. For ten of those years, she answered the call of community and was a capable and spiritual mentor for the aspirants in Milwaukee. Many School Sisters remember her firm yet gentle mentoring during their high school formation years. They respected her rich spiritual core of wisdom and integrity. Over the years many of her former students continued to correspond with Sister Patricia, grateful for her lasting influence.
Sister Patricia’s friends enumerate numerous adjectives to describe her. She was kind, holy, intuitive, faithful, loyal, patient, thrifty and intriguing. Sister Patricia was a reflective person who articulated deep insights on many subjects. It became obvious to many who knew her that she pursued the truth relentlessly.
In 1969, Sister Patricia followed yet another path and for 21 years, she served in St. Thomas Aquinas Parish in Napa, California, as the Religious Education Director. She also assisted the pastor, Monsignor Vincent Fleming, with various parish duties. Co-workers and volunteers alike highly respected her person and work. Many remember her work in the Religious Education programs.
When Sister Patricia brought closure to her full time ministry and left Napa, California, “to come home” to Milwaukee, the pastor and parishioners received the news of her retirement with sadness and disbelief. Many deeply felt the loss of a mentor and a dear friend.
Sister Patricia always held many of her acquaintances in high regard. They in turn were honored to be her friend. One parishioner wrote to speak of her on-going influence and she wrote; “I am honored that Sister Patricia found time to correspond with me for all of these years. I still have many of her letters, some on beautiful note cards, with inspirational messages, comments on the activities at Marian Hall, and later, at Sacred Heart Convent, and observations on national and world current events, as well as her insights on many social and political issues.”
Throughout Sister Patricia’s life, her love of God was her first priority. We will cherish memories of her loving presence and her example among us, her genuine kindness and straightforwardness, and her smiling Irish eyes.
We can only imagine the glisten of love and joy in those Irish eyes as she left us on the feast of St Joseph and was welcomed and embraced by her God and those two very special saints – Sts. Joseph and Patrick.
Sister Patricia, you are already welcomed to the fullness of the Resurrection! You are already in the embrace of God’ love!
Born: March 23, 1918
Died: January 7, 2008
Funeral commentary by Sister Evlyn Schnieders
Dear Sister Eve, it can be said that you “grabbed at life” like Zorba the Greek. This is evidenced in your autobiography. You delighted in growing up in rural Wyoming and being nurtured in a loving family.
As the youngest of ten children, you likely endured both doting and teasing which contributed to your spunky and strong character. Music, which was highly valued in your family, became your own delight as well as your ministry to the people of God.
Here is Sister Eve’s life story as told to Sister Ellen Dieter in 2001:
I was born on March 23, 1918, to loving parents, Catherine and Conrad Evers in St. Libory, Nebraska, but moved to Cheyenne, Wyoming when I was a month old. I am the youngest of ten children: five boys – Bill, Joe, Leonard, Rudolph and Clarence and five girls – Clara, Emma, Loretta and a sister who died before I was born. I was baptized Evangeline.
We lived on a farm as I was growing up. There were many chores to do, but we had fun too. I remember one time we were taking turns riding our horse. When Clarence was slow in giving me a turn, I yelled so loudly and scared the horse which took off fast with Clarence hanging on for dear life. The horse jumped over a couple of fences and landed my brother in the mud. I prayed he would not be hurt. He wasn’t, but I felt guilty for a long time afterward.
As a young farm girl, I was very active in the 4-H Club and would ride my horse seven miles to attend the meetings. I loved to participate in all sports and was voted “star athlete” when I was in the eighth grade. How proud I was to wear a sport shirt with a big “C” for Cheyenne Junior High.
I attended public school through the eighth grade. Already in third grade, I knew I wanted to be a nun someday like my cousin, Sister Gertrude Ann Buhrman. She helped me prepare to enter the convent in 1935 when I was 17 years old. I also had three other cousins who were School Sisters of St. Francis: Sisters Guido, Secunda and Ann Evers (formerly Olivette who lives in Nebraska).
During my postulancy, along with other classes, I was assigned to study music under Sisters Sixtina and Theophane. In grade school I had studied the basics of music. My father was organist in our parish church. My older brothers had a dance band. I studied their music books and often sang and danced to the popular music they played. So my interest in music was developing early in my life.
I was received in the School Sister Community in June 1938 and was given the name Sister Alpheus. During my mission life I was organist, choir director, and I gave piano and violin lessons after school. Occasionally, I was called upon to be a substitute in the classroom. I didn’t have discipline problems with the small children, but one pupil remarked that I wasn’t very good at square root.
During summers I attended classes for credit at Marquette University and Loyola, but it wasn’t until 1959 that I had enough credits to receive my degree in music. One highlight of my mission years was a trip with a tour group and Sister Bernadete Salm to the Hawaiian Islands. Another time I joined a tour to the Caribbean Islands. Both of these trips were beautiful and memorable experiences.
I loved to sing, so whenever a group of sisters were gathered, I would play the piano and get them to join in singing all our favorite numbers. It was my joy to be a member of the Chapel Singers and was a faithful chorister for many practices and performances.
Through the years I continued giving piano and violin lessons, and in addition, I took a job in the 1970s in the Business Office of an art supply store in West Allis, Wisconsin. I made many friends and gained much experience during my 23 years there. Some of my piano students and choir members still remember me.
Now in my retirement, even though I can no longer play an instrument or sing, music and memories reverberate in my mind and heart. (End of life story)
In 1995 Eve retired here, not entirely of her own choice, as she had been diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease. This was bitter news for her because she knew that in time she would not be able to play an instrument, sing or dance.
However, courageous woman that she was, Eve learned to cope: for some time she could type a little, listen to music, and keep in touch with loved ones. Her vivid sense of humor often helped carry the day for her and the convent’s dedicated staff. Finally she experienced peace, the peace which Jesus announced, the world cannot give.
Eve, thank you for your years of dedication and the opportunity you afforded us to show compassion and learn from you as you responded to life’s situations.
Born: April 3, 1917
Died: December 24, 2007
Funeral commentary by Sister Rita Eisterhold
On April 13, 1917, Mathias and Sophia Gubbels welcomed their first child – a girl. She was born on a farm near Randolph, Nebraska. She was baptized at St. Frances de Chantal Church and given the name Loretta. Loretta had a happy childhood in a loving home in spite of the sacrifices required by the Great Depression and the droughts that are famous in some parts of Nebraska.
Among her personal things was an eight-page letter that she wrote to her mother and father before reception. In the letter, she expressed her love and gratitude to her parents for the gift of life. Her great love for her parents motivated her decision to sacrifice a scholarship to St. Theresa College and stay home to help with the farm and housework.
She also wrote of her burning desire to enter the novitiate and learn what the vows meant and how to live them. Her reception was on June 13, 1938, and she was given the name Sister Magdalita.
Accepting God’s will in whatever God asked was soon tested. After her canonical year, her novitiate was interrupted and she was sent to McHenry, Illinois to teach first grade. Sister Laurentine, an excellent primary teacher, was her mentor. After practicing teaching and attending college for 10 summers, she graduated from Alverno College with a Bachelor’s degree in Education. As an elementary teacher, she taught in Illinois, Wisconsin, Iowa and Nebraska.
After 41 years of teaching Sister Magdalita requested to work at St. Joseph Convent in Campbellsport, Wisconsin. Accustomed to hard work, she worked in the garden, sewing room, upholstery department, decoration and in hair care for the sisters. Her attitude as she performed here duties was prayerful. Attending community prayer was a priority for her.
Her life was marked by simplicity and thoroughness. After work, she engaged in crafts, such as making table mats, weaving birds from crafts and making boxes.
Outstanding among her strengths was her ability to suffer in silence. When she became ill about a year ago, her pain was intense but her words of complaint were almost non-existent.
When I was visiting her last Sunday she jokingly asked, “How do they celebrate Christmas in Heaven?” My response was, “I don’t know. ” She smiled and perhaps thought, “You don’t know – but I’ll find out. ” She died the next morning.
I’ll conclude with the words, from the Song of Songs. “Come then, my love, my lovely one, come … The season of glad songs has begun. ” (Song of Songs 2: 10-13)
Born: March 2, 1910
Died: October 1, 2007
Funeral commentary by Sister Ritaclare Johnson
In Sister Rosalita’s folder was a paper which had this written on it. “Please stress simplicity—I live to go to God. ” That certainly was evident in her daily living.
Sister Rosalita was like a spring overflowing its springbox … a freshness in the center of the chest. Her joy was fluid and didn’t move from outside to inside. It was a fountainhead from within her, moving out. Has your spirit ever soared in her presence?
Her fellow sisters said of her: “She was a warm and vivacious person interested in people. At Alverno College, as the Director of Personnel, she was eager to meet the person behind the name. She encouraged students to introduce themselves at the Personnel Office. ”
A student and friend from the class of 1941-1942 in St. Philomena’s Commercial High School comments, “She was a beautiful teacher, one we all admired. She had that warm glow about her and was a very caring and compassionate person. ”
Besides ministering at St. Philomena’s Commercial High School, Sister Rosalita also taught in elementary, high school and college levels. Sister also served as a school supervisor and Director of Secondary Student Teaching as well as Student Personnel Director at Alverno College. Sister Rosalita spent two years at the Loyola Guidance Clinic, Chicago, interning for her degree in Clinical Psychology.
Always willing to serve, often she would be asked to serve where there was an immediate need. Her generous spirit embraced this new opportunity although it entailed letting go of something she was happy in.
Both her mother and father were of Irish descent. Perhaps that’s where her wit and “warm glow” came from. She was born in Washington D.C. , on March 2, 1910. Sister also had six sisters, one of which was Sister DePadua, and two brothers. She was received into the School Sisters of St. Francis on June 14, 1932.
So when was the last time you pondered your heart’s desire by a fresh springbox overflowing with fresh flowers? Sister Rosalita, thank you for walking with us in the joyous spirit of your whole being from the inside out.
Born: August 24, 1915
Died: November 16, 2007
Funeral commentary by Sister Laureen Haben (using Sister Rita’s notes)
Rita, a Free Spirit
Rita, born August 24, 1915, was the first in a family of four, and the only girl of Joseph and Agnes Kaminsky of Chicago. Her parents prayed to St. Rita for a safe birth – no doubt that is how we’ve come to know her by that name. Three brothers soon joined the family – Francis, Bob, and Joe who was more commonly known as Bud. Their mother dressed them in sailor suits so people thought the family had triplets. It was in Chicago that Rita grew to be an outgoing, living-life-fully person, but a quiet person in many of her responses to life. In spite of this she loved being with people. She would talk to anyone on the street, in the store, on the bus. This one-to-one contact was precious to her, yet at times she avoided crowds.
She entered the School Sisters of St. Francis in 1941 and was received in 1942. Her first mission was St. Charles in Cassville, Wisconsin. She moved from there to Waumandee, then to Campbellsport to teach at St. Matthew School. In 1955 Rita began her service in the Chicago area: St. James in Arlington Heights, St. Peter in Skokie, St. Benedict in Chicago, and then to begin a library at St. Athanatius in Evanston. Sister Rita considered these Evanston years, her “golden years. ”
She began her retirement at Our Lady of Victory in Chicago and in time moved to Marian Hall. On a scale of one to ten, Rita earns a ten when it comes to finding laughter in the daily surprises of life. Granted, that laughter came after struggling with daily doses of life’s trials and difficulties. One of the hardest things for Rita was to learn to go with the flow of change. Gradually she learned to laugh at “senior” moments. Her skill at story telling came forth as she retold mission stories, often prefaced by these words, “I love this story. ” It was more than the story we listeners enjoyed. It was the beauty of Rita’s expression and the joy in her storytelling.
Sisters Margaret Gazdik, Barbara Niemeyer (who are with us only in spirit today) and Joan Cecile Bonvouloir, and I were one of her close knit group of friends. In fact we were set to travel Saturday morning to bid our last goodbye but she played one of her tricks on us and went to God instead. Okay, we can wait to meet her in heaven.
Rita kept close contact with her family, her community, friends, and the people she met. She loved movies and found places where there were budget tickets. Few people do not know about her dish cloths and her delight in making them, but even more delight in giving them to her friends.
There was a contemplative side to Rita. An annoying throat made her choose to not pray aloud. Sitting alone in her room, with soft music to carry her forward, she found her own way to commune with her God. With a free mind carrying no encumbrance, living life moment to moment is the secret to enjoy life to the fullest. That is what she tried to do.
Words written to her friends sum up her life.
There are times I am discouraged—
my outer self is wasting away—
but my inner self is renewed daily. God is changing my life—
I trust him. God is taking over gradually. My face to face with God is getting closer.
Death brings me nearer to my God. Please help me to accept what
I do not understand. I love you. I trust you.
Born: July 5, 1924
Died: January 4, 2008
Funeral commentary by Sister Ritaclare Johnson
Sister Mary Kornely radiated joy in her teaching, spiritual direction and her dedication to her community. Sister Mary later characterized her years of spiritual direction and ministry to her prayer groups as a time of rediscovering her own soul. Her restlessness became restful and serene. Her radiant smile beckoned an inner joy. In her later days of diminishment, one could elicit that radiant smile by reciting lines of poetry from the Little Prince, Chesterson, or any other poetry. Not only did she give life to the poetry her student said but poetry gave her life.
Born in Milwaukee on July 5, 1924, Mary was nurtured by her loving family consisting of her parents, Raymond and Elizabeth Kornely, and one brother and three sisters. Her brother later became a Jesuit priest of whom she was very proud. Although, Sister Mary was not taught by the School Sisters of St. Francis, when the call came, she chose the School Sisters of St. Francis and was received on June 13, 1942.
Sister taught in Wilmette, Illinois; at Alvernia high school; and for 16 years at the SSSF motherhouse teaching English, History, and Religion. She taught at Holy Redeemer Grade School and Pius X1 High School in Milwaukee. It was during her teaching years that she wanted to pursue spiritual direction and leadership in prayer groups. Her spiritual direction took her to several retreat houses where she joined teams of directors. At St. Monica’s in Whitefish Bay, Sister Mary led several prayer groups. This calling brought her closer to those who longed to deepen their spirit.
Sister Mary, from the tribulation of these last years, you have now emerged into the splendor you proclaimed all your life. You have now “recovered your humanity in all its beauty and glory, in the company of a host of companions, and risen again out of the grave transformed with a special glory…”
Born: September 22, 1911
Died: March 30, 2008
Funeral Commentary given by Sister Evlyn Schnieders
(From the writings of Sister Maxine) I was born on a farm outside of Stuart, Nebraska on September 22, 1911, on my parent’s third wedding anniversary.
I was baptized Angela Agatha four days later. My older brother preceded me and God sent us four more children for a total of three boys and three girls.
Ours was a very happy childhood. The loving care of our hard-working parents and the fresh air and sunshine contributed to a healthy family. All of us remained sports fans and we loved the horseback riding and playing ball in summer and ice skating and playing in the snow in winter.
My sister and I used to race a neighbor girl home for lunch at noon. One day I thought I had a head start and was ahead of everyone. When I got home, my mother said, “What are you doing here?” I answered, “I’m home for lunch.” But I soon discovered it only ten o’clock! It was recess and I cried and cried.
Love was the center of our lives along with a deep dedication to family prayer. If we had a quarrel, the cure was a hug and a kiss. There were times we didn’t want to do a task –for example, wash dishes – and Mom would say, “I’ll do it myself.” It would take a second for us to jump to the task. We were fortunate to have the School Sisters as our teachers at St. Boniface School. I loved school and my teachers who nurtured my prayer life and love of Mary and music which my mother began at home. I had always loved the sisters. I was proud of my aunt, Sister Ventura Kunz and cousin, Sister Gaudiosa (Emma Clare Schneider).
In the summer of 1926 I finished my first year of high school at our little Catholic school. It was time for my dream to come true, to be a sister. All that summer I followed my Dad around outside in the evening hoping for his “yes.” It was a difficult decision for both mom and dad, to give me up at the age of 14.
However, on August 13, about six weeks before my 15th birthday Sister Ventrua and I set out for Milwaukee. I can still feel the thrill in me as I walked up those high steps at St. Joseph Convent! It was the vigil of Mary’s Assumption! My postulancy was an exciting year and it was over like a dream. Finally the day of reception arrived, June 15, 1927 and I received the name Sister Maxine. It was a memorable day with my dear mother.
In August I was appointed to teach at St. Clara’s in Chicago. While teaching, I finished my high school and graduated from Loyola. I enjoyed college and later received the administration degree in Omaha, Nebraska.
In June, 1929 I had the joy of bringing my dear sister Hildegard to the Convent. She was only 18 months younger than I and we were very close throughout life. She was received on June 12, 1930 and given the name of Sister Leocretia. She was appointed to work at Sacred Heart Sanitarium and later became a registered nurse.
However, among the deepest sorrows I experienced in life were the days and years Sister Leocretia endured illness, especially cancer. Her death was a relief and joy for her but a sad departure for me. I have found all the deaths of my dear ones very difficult. My living brother, Arby, and sister, Bernadette, are very precious to me.
My 56 years of teaching /administration brought many blessings and joys. I loved my mission life. I taught in Illinois, Wisconsin and Nebraska. I taught all the grades and loved my pupils. My belief in motivating the children brought good results and we, together, had fun in school which included daily singing. Some happy returns have been the visits and letters from former students and class reunions.
In 1984 I decided to “quit while I was ahead” and returned to St. Joseph Convent in Milwaukee. It was “going home again” where I spent 11 happy years volunteering for small tasks, as well as renewing old acquaintances, and participating in the LaFarge program. Among those experiences was the almost unbelievable privilege of going on a Marian pilgrimage to Europe during my 60th Jubilee year.
In 1995 it was time to move on. After having been a volunteer at St. Joseph Convent in Campbellsport during a number of summers, I felt it was a good place to retire as it is the “founding “spot of our community where the original spirit lingers. Although I found the adjustment difficult, I believed that was where God wanted me at that time. I enjoyed helping with the tasks, tutoring, watercolor and acrylic painting. God has been my pilot and I walk serene in this place. In 2007 preparing for my 80th Jubilee I add this joyous realization: God is my delight and I am God’s delight!
Maxine, you have been a gift to us really a delight, and we will not forget you.
Born: May 24, 1935
Died: January 26, 2008
Commentary by Sister Ritaclare Johnson
Helen was born and baptized in a faith-filled family in Medford, Wisconsin. Sister Helen was also formed by School Sisters of St. Francis in her school days but also was inspired by her three aunts: Sister Paschalis, Salvia and Frances who were in the community. As Sister Helen said, “My desire of going to the convent became a family matter.”
All of us and countless others have experienced the fruits of Sister Helen’s Franciscan life. Sister was received June 13, 1952 and given the name, Sister Selmara. The Word of God that Sister Helen chose for her prayer service this morning reflects someone steeped in a deep faith, tenderness and undying hope. Sister wanted us to remember, “My portion is the Lord, therefore I will hope in him.” (Lamentations) Sister Helen’s spirit of encouraging hope in others will be very much missed.
It is indeed quite an interesting phenomenon that Sister Helen Schulteis and Sister Helen Schrauth are being buried in the same week. What is amazing is that in these phenomena is the hope that Sister Helen gave to the Schulteis family by her sensitive heart and spirit in her loving care to Father Jerome, during his illness and dying. This kind of hopeful and loving care was given to all of her patients during her homecare assignments.
Another fruit of her Franciscan life was her openness to learn and be flexible. She was willing to substitute teach in Whitefish Bay, Glenview, and Westville. Sister was so flexible that she learned how to coordinate the Learning Center at St. Catherine’s in Milwaukee for seven years. Her 28 years of teaching was joyful and fun-filled with just enough seriousness to get the task accomplished.
Her aim in whatever task she had was to seek beauty. She even found it in the laundry. While ironing linens, especially the fancy work for the Fall Festival, Sister Helen would see the delicate beauty and bring it out skillfully. Sister Helen enjoyed the beauty of her homemaking skills as well, turning out delicious and creative meals. At one point in her life, she took a course in calligraphy. It opened for her a new way of creating beauty. For her it was an enjoyable way of touching into the source of all beauty. Her creative greeting cards and art pieces gave her that silent time to express her innermost being to the “God of Beauty.”
Sister Helen, this “family matter” of going to the convent has touched each of us, your Franciscan family. And we know from your reading this morning that “The favors of the Lord are not exhausted. His mercies will endure forever.” (Lamentations) The Lord of Mercy has now favored you with eternal beauty.
Sister Marian Schreiner (Theodista)
Born: August 26, 1923
Died: January 15, 2008
Funeral commentary by Dolores Watry-Tock
Marian Schreiner!
I first came to know her as Sister Theodista, 8th grade teacher at Alverno Elementary School. I was the third grade teacher and on lunch duty that week. That meant it was my job to check on the children eating lunch in their own classrooms while the other teachers were eating lunch in the teacher’s room.
Suddenly, there was a big raucous in one room—little Joey was eating his lunch when his big eighth grade brother came in and wanted something out of his little brother’s lunch box. I was able to calm little Joey, but not his big eighth grade brother. After several unsuccessful attempts, I was convinced I needed Sister Marian’s help!
She was very calm, but very serious as she talked it over with big brother. Problem solved! Calmly and kindly she listened to both boys and helped find a solution to the problem—a perfect example of calmness and kindness. I too learned a big lesson from Marian that day. Later on as I talked it over with Marian I leaned the lesson of patient kindness and of listening to others.
Marian and I worked together at Alverno Elementary for several years. I always looked up to her as a person I could learn from. We taught on different levels, but she always had time for talks and helpful suggestions.
Marian, along with Sister Joselma and Arlene Huguelet, began The Time for Living religion series – a publication to serve as a guide for teachers on the elementary level.
As time went on, Sister Marian moved to other assignments and situations. I remember her being assigned to Pius XI High School in Milwaukee where she served as religion teacher and superior for the sisters there.
Sister Marian was also chosen as a member of the SSSF Wisconsin Provincial Team. Her same spirit of kindness and the ability to listen to each person without judgment served her well in that position.
At the time Sister Marian was on the Provincial Team she lived with a group of us at “Poverello” – a home owned by and close to Alverno College, and just big enough for seven people to live there. This was a time of many changes in the community. I was always amazed at how Marian could accept the myriad of ideas and suggestions from any of the sisters – everyone’s idea had value and could be reviewed, even if not acceptable in the end.
Sister Joselma – also a teacher at Alverno Elementary – had also become a close friend of Marian’s. During our many get-togethers, we prayed, laughed, and sometimes cried together.
Marian’s family lived quite a distance away in Athens, Wisconsin, and it was sometimes difficult for her to get to see them. I remember one day after my parents and sisters had visited me, she expressed sadness that she was not able to see her sisters more frequently. It meant very much to her in these later years when she could visit them more often. What good friends they were and what good times they had together.
Now Marian, in her new life, joins her sister Annie, and her brothers Wilfred, Frank, and Donald. And to her sister Irene, with us today, and Marian’s nieces and nephews, whom she loved seeing, and to her sister Florence, unable to be with us today, we extend sympathy and love, and with them, celebrate Sister Marian’s life among us. She will always be with us as we keep her in our memories and hearts.
Sister Helen Schulteis (Aloysiana)
Born: February 17, 1920
Died: January 22, 2008
Commentary by Sister Irene Daniels
Sister Helen Schulteis grew up on a farm in Wisconsin in the Richfield area near Holy Hill Road. She had five brothers and two sisters, all of whom are now deceased. She went to St. Boniface School in Goldendale and was taught by the School Sisters of St. Francis. Helen entered the community after eighth grade, having been inspired by the sisters’ constant happiness and willingness to help each other.
She immediately began her studies at St. Joseph High School taught by the School Sisters. After graduation, the strong desire to become a member of the community surfaced. On June 13th, 1936, she was received into the community and given the name, Sister Aloysiana. Now she was part of the community she so admired. Her studies to become a teacher began after two years spent in the novitiate. On August 11, 1938, Sister Aloysiana made her first profession.
Her first mission assignment was St. Michael’s Parish in Wheaton, Illinois. She taught first grade and loved it, but later discovered her real love was teaching junior high and high school. Sister Helen taught in several schools in Illinois, Wisconsin, Nebraska and Mississippi. At Ryan High School in Omaha, she was vice-principal and curriculum director. While teaching, she worked for her Master of Arts degree at DePaul and St. Louis Universities.
Sister Helen initiated the Development Office at the SSSF Motherhouse, taught classes at the La Farge Lifelong Learning Institute, worked in the Health Care Office, and kept records in the Provincial Office. When retired, she continued to volunteer as a teacher.
While teaching at La Farge, Sister Helen taught social studies for 13 years in such an interesting way that her classes grew until they had reached 200 students and had to be moved into the hall. Later, as she was aging, she asked that the limit be lowered to 175 students.
Sister’s teaching profession didn’t end at Campbellsport. She continued teaching small classes and also working one-on-one with students. Sister Helen was always interested in continuing to update her knowledge of current issues. She read all the magazines pertaining to Social Studies that she could find.
Sister Helen lived her 71 (plus) years as a School Sister of St. Francis serving others generously.
Those who lived with her or were around her always knew she was there to help them in any circumstance or situation that would arise. Sister Helen was A VERY GENEROUS PERSON!
Sister Pauline Shamaj
Born: November 21, 1914
Died: February 20, 2008
Funeral commentary by Sister Evlyn Schnieders
I was not aware of the moment when I first crossed the threshold of this life. What was the power that made me open out into this vast mystery like a bud in the forest at midnight!
When in the morning I looked upon the light I felt in a moment that I was no stranger in this world, that the inscrutable without name and form had taken me in its arms in the form of my own mother…Gitanjali 95 by Rabindranath Tagore
Sister Pauline was born to Steve and Mary Rezak Shamaj on November 21, 1914 in Ford City, Pennsylvania. One week later her memoirs tell us that she was consecrated to God as His Child. She recalled many years later how the parish priest would raise an infant above the altar beneath the crucifix, praying aloud that God would protect the child and family.
Sister’s father had been a reporter for the underground newspaper in Czechoslovakia. He made his escape from the Germans and came to the United States and settled in Pennsylvania. Some months later his wife joined him with an infant son.
In the next years one additional son and six daughters were born in the family. They were a poor, hard-working immigrant family for whom Catholic values were very important, particularly respect for one another and attendance at Mass.
The family lived far from a Catholic church. The shortest route for those who would not fit in the horse and buggy with their parents was to cross the river in a boat. They used a path down the mountainside to the banks of the river where a boat was waiting. They then crossed the river, went to Mass, rode back in the boat and paid the gentleman 21 cents for the ride.
As a very young child Pauline had experienced suffering caused by a lack of water. She was the one who was sent to try to locate a spring from which to draw water after the well went dry. Pauline would walk up and down a large field trying to locate a spring. When she finally discovered fresh water, she filled her container and ran home. They were always conscious of wasting water – God’s precious gift, as her mother would call it.
Pauline was very close to her mother and shared: “As a small child I followed my mother wherever she went. I could hear her pray aloud all day long calling upon God for His assistance in whatever she was doing. I did not fully understand what it was all about, but I always wanted to be like her.”
Pauline thought of becoming a sister, and several months later took action in this direction. In 1933, Pauline was received as Sister Sixtus. She was educated as a teacher and soon joined the staff of Holy Assumption School in Indiana Harbor. Over the years she served as teacher and or principal in Milwaukee, Chicago, Menomonee Falls and Cudahy.
Since childhood Pauline experienced suffering in many different ways which likely contributed to her compassion for others who suffered. She took a job with an answering service for 15 years and during that time she counseled coworkers, or students who had or thought of having abortions. She listened to the hardship of women whose husbands would not give them money for household needs. She listened to the stories of fallen away and lax Catholics. She went to confession with those who didn’t want to go alone. When she celebrated her Golden Jubilee, friends surprised her with a party at a hotel and presented her with gifts.
Throughout Pauline’s life she struggled with doubt about herself and her relationship to God. The renewal and upheaval of the 1960s and 1970s in Church, society and religious communities were very difficult for her. It seems that suffering remained a constant.
After retiring to Marian Hall she helped out with the switchboard and other volunteer jobs. She especially appreciated the leadership and camaraderie there. In 1997 she came to live at St. Joseph Convent in Campbellsport.
The suffering in Sister Pauline’s life story hints of Saint Teresa of Avila and Mother Teresa, as does the life-story of every person who strives to connect the inner yearning for Beloved God and God’s yearning for us.
Dear Pauline, we thank you for sharing life with us and for the beautiful Slovak culture you and many other women brought to our community and to this country.
I close with another appropriate poem of Tagore:
I have got my leave. Bid me farewell, my [Sisters]. I bow to you all and take my departure.
Here I give back the keys of my door – and I give up all claims to my house. I only ask for last kind words from you.
We were neighbors for long, but I received more that I could give. Now the day has dawned and the lamp that lit my dark corner is out. A summons has come and I am ready for my Journey.
Sister Marie Sibbel (Athanasia)
Born: March 20, 1923
Died: March 28, 2008
Funeral Commentary by Sister Margaret Sibbel
Marie Gertrude Sibbel was born in Butte, Nebraska – the third child in a family of nine children. Marie started her education at Ss. Peter and Paul Catholic School and was taught by the School Sisters of St. Francis. When she graduated eight years later, Mother was not well, and Marie stayed home to help. She also worked for other families when Mother's health improved. Leona and I entered the convent, and when we came home for a Christmas vacation, Marie announced that she too was going to the convent. In fact, our oldest brother was teasing Marie about following her sisters to the convent. We were at the supper table and to everyone’s surprise Marie said, “Yes I intend to go back with them.” And she did! Luckily we had a blizzard that year so we had two extra days to get ready. Marie entered the community on January 6, 1942, the day Mother Corona took office, and Mother Stanislaus retired.
Marie desired and expected to be a homemaker, but was asked to be a teacher and organist. She began high school, and was received with Sister Margaret on June 13, 1943. Sister Leona had been received the year before. During the novitiate, community leadership saw the need for more nurses and asked for volunteers. Marie was one of them. She completed the three year course at Sacred Heart School of Nursing, and after some night courses she graduated from Alverno College. During her nursing career, Marie was asked several times to be an instructor of nurses, but she much preferred the direct care of those who were sick.
After 14 years of nursing at Sacred Heart, she asked to go to Germany, where she was nurse for over ten years. Upon her return to the U. S., Marie spent three months caring for our mother, who was dying of cancer. She had also been a nurse in Beaver Dam, at Villa Clement, and at Deaconess Hospital in Milwaukee. When she retired at Marian Hall in Milwaukee, she worked as a resident nurse. At Maryhill Convent she answered phones, doorbells and attended to the mail, always happy to be available wherever she was needed.
Sister Marie was open to new opportunities, especially if it meant reaching out to those who were poor. She participated in the “Living Aware Program” in Lamedeer, Montana for 6 weeks, and a second time in India for 3 months. Techniques and equipment were primitive in India, but Marie thoroughly enjoyed her experience there. She also taught English to the Indian postulants. While in India, she saw extreme poverty, but quality of life was very evident. Marie loved her time in India, working with and for the poor.
Last May heart and lung problems necessitated Marie’s going to a nursing home. Sacred Heart Center was her home from May until September, when she was well enough to be transferred to St. Joseph Convent in Campbellsport. This was her original choice for retirement. She loved the country atmosphere and the spirit of the sisters, and she so appreciated the care she received at the convent.
Sister Marie was a caring and dedicated person. This last year has certainly shown her depth of spirituality in the way she accepted her physical condition and the need to be on the receiving end of care. Someone said to me, “Marie was never heavy on doing her own will.” That didn’t happen automatically. As a youngster, she was quite self-willed. Throughout her 66 years in the convent, Marie practice surrendering to God’s will, which was very evident in May, 2007. It was one surrender after the other, until there seemed only one will – God’s will! Whether to suffer another day, or to die, Marie would very peacefully say, “It’s up to God!”
Sister Marie, we thank you for the gift you have been to so many of us, and to so many others. You are gift. You are inspiration. You are witness of a nurse's dedication, a faith-filled Franciscan, and a courageous woman! Marie your suffering is over. Enjoy your reward!
Sister Herlinda WolfBorn: June 24, 1910
Died: December 5, 2007
Funeral commentary by Sister Evelyn Schnieders
Sister Herlinda was a member of the School Sisters of St. Francis for 82 years. Indeed she has been a blessing to our community and to the Catholic educational system in the United Sates. She grew up in Chicago, and was one of 36 young girls to come to our community from St. Martin Parish. Sister Herlinda spent more than 55 years teaching large classes of elementary school children. It has been said that she worked particularly well with male students, likely because of her sense of humor and having had the experience of growing up with six brothers. Her teaching experience spanned the states of Illinois, Wisconsin, Pennsylvania and Nebraska.
In 2001 Sister Herlinda retired here and took up her ministry of prayer and presence, which included more time for prayer, reading her beloved mystery books, and warmly welcoming visitors.
Sister Herlinda dearly loved her parents and 11 brothers and sisters, and at times quoted her two brothers who were Franciscan priests. Today we extend our heartfelt condolence to Sister’s surviving sisters: Rosemary, Lillian, Helen and one brother George, as well as nieces and nephews. We especially express appreciation for their forebears who enriched both our country and the Church with their staunch faith and rich European culture.