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Teachers (In Memoriam)

SWHS Teacher Memorials

It's interesting to see what 'these people' - that we knew as a 3 to 6 year snapshot in our 70+ years - did after they shared their time & energy with us.  Some of us have scant memories of them, but some of us credit them with changing our lives.
(How many of them do you still quote? laugh)

 

(Thanks to Greg Hawks, '67, for additional info)
 

(Not sorted in any mannerwink)


Dave Peterson
 July 17, 1997

Black and white photo of a middle-aged man wearing a white jacket, hockey gloves, and holding a hockey stick    

Born January 5, 1931
Superior, Wisconsin, US

Died July 17, 1997 (aged 66)
Colorado Springs, Colorado, US

David Richard Peterson (January 5, 1931 – July 17, 1997) was an American ice hockey coach. He grew up in Saint Paul, Minnesota, graduated from Hamline University, and played semi-professional hockey as a goaltender for the Minneapolis Millers. He served as head coach of ice hockey at Southwest High School from 1955 to 1982, where he also taught business. His teams qualified for 14 Minnesota State High School League tournaments, which included an undefeated 1969–70 season to win the state championship.

                                                                   Read the entire Dave Peterson Wikipedia page here

Art Fredrickson
May 21, 2010

  Arthur "Art" Fredrickson     

Fredrickson, Arthur "Art" J. age 87, of Mpls. passed away peacefully on 5/21/10. Preceded in death by parents and brother -in-law, George Silver. Survived by loving wife of 64 ½ years, Donna; sons, Mark (Pam) and Gary (Kelley); 3 wonderful grandchildren, Shana, Anelise and Kyle Fredrickson; brother-in-law, Richard (Marlene) Silver; sisters-in-law, Cathy (Delas) Kirkeby and Beatrice Silver; along with nieces and nephews.

Art was a 1948 graduate of St. Olaf College. He served as an officer in the US Navy during WWII as a frogman in the underwater demolition unit and was a Bronze Star recipient. A lifelong educator, he taught in Kenyon, Waseca and Minneapolis Southwest Schools. Besides teaching he coached football, girls basketball and boys and girls golf and was a longtime member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church.

In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to the church or donor's choice. Family interment Ft. Snelling National Cemetery. Memorial service Thursday, 11 AM with visitation one hour prior at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 4100 Lyndale Ave S., Mpls. Washburn-McReavy Edina Chapel 952-920-3996

William (Bill) Adam
October 10, 2005


​​Bill Adam lived in a nursing home in Berkley, CA where he had moved in 1990 to be near his 2 children. He was known for his devotion to three books: a primer of U.S. history, the official rulebook of baseball, and the Bible. He came to the U.S. from Germany in 1920. A stutterer with a heavy German accent, he found acceptance by playing sports. He was captain of the Macalester College basketball team in 1937, the first year they won the state College Conference Championship. He also attended the U of M. He came to Southwest in 1945, where he coached baseball, football and basketball. He was a lay preacher who filled in for preachers of all denominations. He refereed many sports and was on the speaker circuit for athletic gatherings. 

Norman Francis Johnson

October 11, 2022
 
          
Johnson, Norman F. 
Age 90 of Bloomington, passed away peacefully on October 11, 2022. He will be deeply missed by his loving wife of 69 years, Dorothy; children, Kenneth, Eric and David; sister, Mary Lou; 2 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren. Norman is preceded in death by parents, Carl and Mame; and sister, Madonna. Norman had a long career as a teacher and coach. He remained an avid sports fan, especially baseball and basketball. His star shines the brightest and lightens our path with the enormous love and goodness he left behind for all. A private memorial service will be held. Interment Fort Snelling National Cemetery.

 

Larry Larson    
         

Larson, Larry Retired teacher and coach from Mpls Southwest HS, Larry Larson, 84, formerly of Mpls, currently of Minnetonka, passed away at home surrounded by his loving family, Saturday, January 15, 2022.

Robert 'Bob' (Charles) Hoisington
 
Age 92, of Shoreview, passed away on August 15, 2020. After several weeks of declining health, Bob died peacefully at home with his family by his side. Bob was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 61 years, Jean, and is survived by their four children, 21 grandchildren, 13 great grandchildren (and counting), brother, nieces and nephews, and the many friends who loved him.
Bob was born on July 30, 1928 in Sioux City, Iowa, the oldest of three boys to Fred and Lydia Hoisington. The family moved to Minnesota and built a home and business in Oronoco that included rental cabins, a restaurant and gas station. Bob became the male head of household when he was in 5th grade with the passing of his father; his Mom instilled a strong work ethic and the belief that “God is always watching”. While he was able to attend elementary school in Oronoco, he had to travel to Pine Island for high school. Often this 5-mile trip to school and back was by foot, usually jogging instead of walking, which helped him stay in excellent shape for high school sports. He was a star athlete in football, basketball and baseball, and ran in some local track meets even though PIHS didn’t have a track team. During his senior year he was PIHS athlete of the year and class president.
After graduating high school Bob was offered a scholarship to attend Macalester College in St. Paul, where he was on the track and cross country teams, and graduated in 1950 with a math major and teaching degree. His first teaching job was in Windom, Minnesota where his future wife Jean also taught, and that was the beginning of their romance. The courtship continued through letters after Bob was drafted into the U.S. Army, where he served as a math applications instructor for three years at the Aberdeen Proving Grounds in Maryland. Bob and Jean were married during this time, on January 4, 1952.
Bob then returned to Minnesota to earn his Master’s Degree from the University of Minnesota, and to embark on his 30+  year teaching and coaching career.  He first taught math at Minneapolis Central HS and later at Minneapolis Southwest HS. He coached track and cross country at both schools, where his teams claimed 7 state championships and 22 Minneapolis championships. He is a member of many Hall of Fames including MN State High School League, MN Track Coaches, MN Cross Country Coaches, Pine Island High School, Minneapolis Public Schools, Macalester College, and USA Track & Field.
During the teaching and coaching years, Bob and Jean lived and raised their family in the “Dinkytown” area of SE Minneapolis; the four children are Robert Hoisington Jr (Debbie), Karen Hoisington Highness, Barbara Hanson (Timothy) and Lori Kallestad (Gregg). They were active members of the University Lutheran Church of Hope, located right across the street from the family home.
By 1984 Bob had retired from teaching but not from working. He served as a head rules interpreter for the MSHSL and conducted rules meetings around the State. For many years he was head starter and referee at over 50 meets per season, including national championships. A favorite charity event that he helped coordinate for 14 years as a volunteer was the MOCA (Minnesota Ovarian Cancer Alliance) annual walk/run.  After he and Jean had relocated to Shoreview, Bob took on various lawn and pool maintenance jobs for housing associations.
However, his most important title during his retirement years was “Grandpa”. His grandchildren will remember the many fishing trips, as well as being employed by Grandpa to help with maintenance jobs and being coached how to work hard, try your best, and love God. Without fail each descendent (spouses too) received a card and gift on their birthday, graduation, anniversary or other occasion. His generosity extended to everyone, even if it was only the simple act of complimenting his caregivers, wait staff, neighbors or acquaintances about how smart, capable or good looking they were.
Bob and Jean loved to travel, including 28 long stays in Hawaii over the winter months. They considered their dogs an important part of the family (often “babysitting” family members’ dogs), and enjoyed watching and feeding the assorted birds and wildlife on their back patio.
 
Michael J. Hansen
1/5/2024
       

Hansen, Michael Joseph Age 89, of Prior Lake, MN (formerly Bloomington, MN), passed away on Friday, January 5, 2024. Michael was born Decem- ber 20, 1934, in Council Bluffs, Iowa, Michael was the son of Harry and Pearl Hansen. He attended A. Lincoln High School and later pursued higher education at Wayne State College in Wayne, Nebraska where he earned his BA degree with honors. During his first week on campus Micheal met the love of his life, Darlene Rose Dietz. Their connection bloomed, leading to marriage on August 18, 1956. Micheal's pursuit of nowledge continued at Coe Fellowship at the University of Wyoming, where he earned his MA Degree in American Studies. Following that Michael served his country in the US Army, specializing in Military Intelligence and continued in the Army Reserves. This chapter in their lives took them to various locations across the country and sparked a love of travel. Settling in Bloomington, MN, Michael dedicated himself to teaching History, English and Economics at Southwest High School in Minneapolis, MN, where he coached debate, judged track & field and tennis. While raising his children Catherine (Molenaar), Susan (Marker) and Steven Hansen. His passion for education persisted as he pursued further education as a graduate student at the University of Minnesota. Michael had a love for historical education and was the Founder and past President of the Minnesota Chapter of the Lewis and Clark Trail Heritage Foundation. After retiring from teaching high school, he began teaching American and World History courses to Adult education students through community education programs. He loved to travel and enjoyed golfing, fishing, boating, reading , watching his grandkids activities and sports, and spending time with his family & friends. Michael was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Darlene, with whom he shared 68 years of marriage; as well as his parents, Harry and Pearl Hansen; brothers, Harry Jr. and Tim Larson; sister, Lois Hanske; and son-in-law, Steven Molenaar. He is survived by his daughters, Catherine Molenaar and Susan Marker; son, Steven (Jill); grandchildren, Joseph, Julia, Ashley, Shawna, Ian and Paige; and great- grandchildren, Josephine, Declan and Tiernan. Celebration of Life will be held on Monday, January 22 at 11 AM Washburn-McReavy Dawn Valley Chapel. Visitation one hour prior. Washburn- McReavy.com Dawn Valley Chapel 952-941-7686 9940 Bush Lake Rd., Bloomington.

 
Ford, Philip M.
1919 - 2003
Passed at age 84 in Texas

  


  



 

Meyers L. Peterson
September 2, 2009
        
 
Peterson, Meyers L. age 85, of Cambridge, passed away peacefully 9/2/2009. Meyers and his wife Daphne taught together at New London and then Minneapolis Southwest High School. He taught biology and coached football, track and softball. Meyers was also the Southwest HS Athletic Director for 22 years. He officiated high school and college football and basketball for 25 years through out the five state area. He was a member of the St. Cloud State University alumni board and recipient of the Distinguished Alumni Award. He is survived by his loving wife, Daphne; four children, Connie (Terry) Kassa, Larry (Sandy) Peterson, Carla Peterson (Tammy), and Carol (Kevin) Scott; 12 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be held at 3:00 P.M. Friday, Sept. 4th at Cambridge Lutheran Church. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the church. Memorials suggested to the Cambridge Lutheran Church for restoration of the bell and bell tower. Strike Funeral Home Cambridge Chapel 763-689-2070 strikefuneral.com

Sara Sexton
        
Published on June 10, 2017
 
Sara Ann Sexton, age 79. Legendary English teacher, Minneapolis Southwest High School. She is survived by her sister, Peggy Bouveret, who resides in Paris. Sara earned a Bachelor of Arts from the College of St. Catherine in 1959 and a Master of Arts from the University of St. Thomas in 1991. Over her more than 45 years of teaching, Sara changed the lives of generations of students. While at Southwest High School, Sara launched the International Baccalaureate Program. Every school in the community that now offers the IB curriculum owes it to the success of her work. She was awarded the Minneapolis Public Schools Award for Excellence in Teaching in 1987 and the College of St. Catherine Alumni Award in 1997. Of teaching, Sara said, "I was happy every day for 40 years." When she taught her students, she hoped they would learn how to move in the world with integrity; how to love richly and well; how to be rational, honest, generous, and humble. She was an extraordinary friend, and throughout her life she collected a band of smart, funny, strong-minded people who adored her. She loved gin, good food, all dogs, and fast Porsches. Many will wish to honor her life. She did not want a funeral, and so no public service will be held. Remember Sara in your heart when you read great literature and listen to beautiful music. Honor her life by engaging your intellect and spirit with the world around you, as she taught. If a life is measured by the difference it makes to others, Sara Ann Sexton lived a hundred lifetimes. Those who knew her are so much richer for having be given the love of her strong, courageous heart. Memorials preferred to The Humane Society of the United States and the Schubert Club.

Oscar B. Dahle
December 31, 1986

Oscar B. Dahle died December 31, 1986 of cancer at his home in Minneapolis at age 79. He was the Southwest HS Music Director for 29 years. In 1974 he retired, but then taught one year in Plymouth and Brainerd. In his memoir, he wrote “I do not teach music---I teach students. I use music as a means to teach them, so that each will be a better person and prepared for the future.” For 15 years during the ‘60s & early‘70s, the Southwest choir presented a Christmas Eve concert on KSTP-TV. A native of Caledonia, MN, Mr. Dahle graduated from St. Olaf as a math major. His plan was to be a civil engineer, but he took a temporary job at Grand Rapids, MN HS to start a band. He started a band and orchestra and wrote the school song! In the 1940s and 50s he was the music director of the Aqua Follies. He was also director of the Twin Cities Symphonic Chorus. He is survived by his wife Dorothy, two children, 4 stepchildren and 13 grandchildren. Former choral members/students were invited to sing at his memorial service. 


Donald Victor Stoyke

         
Published on March 19, 2015


Evelyn O. Hande
       
Published on May 4, 2014
Hande, Evelyn O. age 97, of Mpls. Evelyn taught school for 25 years in Willmar and Mpls Southwest High School. She was a longtime member of Mount Olivet Lutheran Church. Preceded in death by husband, Edwin; parents, Oscar and Dora Ogrosky; and brother, Harold Ogrosky. Survived by children, Dr. Kenneth (Mary) Hande of Nashville, TN, Patricia (Ray) Hartman of Eagan, MN and Carol (Ross) Petersen of Ely, MN; grandchildren, Scott, Carolyn, Katherine, Reed, Sally, Beth and Andy; and 8 great-grandchildren. Funeral Monday, May 5th, 1:00 PM at Mount Olivet Careview Home, 5517 Lyndale Ave S., Mpls. Interment Fort Snelling National Cemetery. www.Washburn-McReavy.com Edina Chapel 952-920-3996

Richard P. Nelson
December 18, 2013
 
Nelson, Richard P. "Skip" age 75, of South Mpls, passed away December 18, 2013. Survived by his wife of 38 years, Lucinda; children, Anne (John) Sand, Andy; granddaughter, Laura; brother, Jerry (Sandy); nephews, Mark (Brigid), Paul (Penny), Eric (Sara), Joe (Stephanie); niece, Virginia (Jess); and many grand nephews and nieces. He taught 7th grade English in Mpls Public Schools at Southwest and Anthony Junior High. Skip was devoted to his family, friends, and students. He was a dedicated, life long educator. Memorial service 11 AM Thursday, January 9 with visitation 1 hour prior to the service at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 4100 Lyndale Ave S, Mpls. Memorials to Project Success or Bethlehem Lutheran Church. www.Washburn-McReavy.com Nokomis Park Chapel 612-721-1651
Linton Kjera Levin
November 27, 1934 - April 11, 2006
       
Published on March 2, 2016
 
Levin, Linton Kjera November 27, 1934 - April 11, 2006 Died peacefully, at home, of cancer. Survived by his loving wife and best friend of nearly 50 years, Jane; children, Scott & JC, Steven & Lori, Carolyn & Bill Currin; grandchildren, Gretchen, Nick, Kristi, Brett and Emily; Alana and Hannah; many other relatives and treasured friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Leona and Linton A. Levin. Linton was a graduate of Roosevelt High School and earned an MA from Macalester College. He was a retired, talented educator and coach from Minneapolis Southwest High School. He enjoyed people, travel, sports, humor and golf. He treasured his family. His wisdom, knowledge and sense of humor brought pleasure to many. He was a wonderful model for living life joyously and generously. He faced illness and death with courage and dignity. Linton was a resident of Bloomington and an active member of St. Stephen Lutheran Church for over 45 years. Always a smile on his face and love in his heart. Funeral service Friday, 11 AM, St. Stephen Lutheran Church, 8400 France Ave S., Bloomington. Visitation 1 hour prior to service at church and Thursday, 4-7 PM at Washburn- McReavy Werness Brothers Chapel, 2300 W. Old Shakopee Road, Bloomington. Interment Monday, 11 AM, Ft. Snelling National Cemetery, Assembly Area #4. Memorials preferred to St. Stephen Lutheran Church. Washburn-McReavy Bloomington 952-884-8145
 
Robert F. Papas
June 25, 2012
       

Papas, Robert F. 73, of Minnetonka, passed away June 25, 2012. He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Donita, and their four children: Susan Swann of Richfield, Jeff (Kris) of Cloquet, MN, Amy (Scott) Lussier of St. Louis Park and Jennifer of Hopkins; his brother, Al "Skip" Papas Jr. of Mpls, and five grandchildren. Bob served as Grand Master of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Minnesota in 1990 and was a 33rd Degree Inspector General (Honorary) in the Minneapolis Valley of the Scottish Rite. He was a member of numerous other Masonic organizations and served as International President of the International Association of Printing House Craftsmen in 1984. He was a 40-year member of Oak Knoll Lutheran Church in Minnetonka. Bob was a Graphic Arts instructor at Minneapolis Southwest High School from 1961-72 before moving to what is now Hennepin Technical College. He retired as Director of Secondary Education there in 1995. Visitation is Thursday, June 28 from 4:00 - 7:00 p.m. at Washburn-McReavy Edina Chapel, 5000 W. 50th St. & Hwy 100, with Masonic rites to follow. Funeral services will be held Friday, June 29 at 10:00 a.m. at Oak Knoll Lutheran Church, 600 Hopkins Crossroads, Hopkins. Private interment will follow at Lakewood Cemetery. Washburn McReavy 952-920-3996


Harold C. Strobel
August 12, 1930 - November 24, 2011

   


Ruth May (Stone) Stewart
August 30, 1921 - July 21, 2013
 
    
 
Stewart, Ruth May (Stone) Beloved mother, grandmother, friend and teacher, passed away peacefully on July 21, 2013 at age 91. Preceded in death by husband, Jerry; and son, John. Survived by children, Peggy (Phil) Mitchell and Jim (Robin) Stewart; grandchildren, Andy Mitchell, Kelsey (Joe) Schnackenberg, Caitlyn Stewart and Trevor Stewart. Ruth was born on August 30, 1921 to Art and Erma Stone. She was a graduate of Marshall University High School (1939) and the University of Minnesota (1944). Ruth met her future husband Jerry Stewart at the University and they married in 1945 while he was in the Army Air Corps during World War II. After the war they settled in Minneapolis where both became teachers in the Minneapolis schools and raised their family. Ruth taught physical education and health at Southwest High School and retired in 1981. Ruth loved her job, was a devoted educator and was loved by her students. She and Jerry also loved golf and were very active members at Minnesota Valley golf course. After retirement she and Jerry enjoyed traveling and golf and when Jerry became disabled Ruth became a devoted caregiver. Ruth also loved spending time with her grandchildren. After Jerry passed away, Ruth became quite active with the University of Minnesota Education Alumni board and along with a fellow Marshall University Alumni graduate started the first scholarship for disabled students at the University. Visitation at 12:00 PM and memorial service at 1:00 PM on Thursday, July 25, at St. Andrew Lutheran Church, 13600 Technology Drive, Eden Prairie, 55344. Special thanks to the caring staff at Summit Place which has been Ruth's home for the last 10 years. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Alzheimer's Society preferred. www.Washburn-McReavy.com Eden Prairie Chapel 952-975-0400

James Turnham Pearson
       

Published on February 17, 2008


Pearson, James Turnham 80, of Minneapolis and Little Falls, MN, died February 6th. He is preceded in death by parents Mildred Turnham and Emil Pearson. Survived by loving wife, Lynda of Rochester, NY; cousin, Harriet Pratt, and Pearson cousins. Minnesota teachers and students lost a trusted, tireless, and dedicated advocate. Though diagnosed with lung cancer in December, Jim was still advocating for teachers at the Capitol the day before his death. Jim taught social studies at Southwest, South and North high schools in Minneapolis. He created an innovative and popular class at Hennepin County Government Center on street law for high schoolers. His students received a balanced and experiential education with guest speakers from all sides of issues. As a leader of the Minneapolis Federation of Teachers, Pearson served on the executive board, negotiating team, and chaired the legislative and COPE committees for years. He continued to be a trusted advisor to local and state leaders following retirement in l992. As a seasoned, ethical, and effective lobbyist, Jim earned the trust of legislators on both sides of the aisle. His life demonstrated his commitment to American democracy, recognized by the American Civil Liberties Union by honoring Jim with its distinguished service award. Jim was a leader in his state union, the Minnesota Federation of Teachers, and in the Minnesota AFL-CIO, an umbrella organization for Minnesota unions. He was dedicated to the importance of local, grassroots political activity. He chaired the 2nd Ward DFL for many years, and was a frequent delegate to state DFL conventions. Jim was an avid trout fisherman taking him all over the country to find the next secret spot. A gifted gardener, he propagated rare wild flowers in his Little Falls garden. Family was an important center of Jim's life. He put thousands of miles on his cars caring for his mother in Little Falls who lived to 105. His lifelong quest for social justice never wavered. There were never any limits on Jim's time, energy, persistence and commitment to students, teachers and retirees. His close friends will remember his sage, honest advice. Jim left a lasting imprint on the education, the labor movement, and Minnesota politics. A memorial service will be Saturday, February 23rd at 10:30 a.m. at Colony Park Church, 5532 Wooddale Ave South in Edina (entrance and parking in rear off Lexington St.) followed by food, family and friends. In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to the Jim Pearson Government Relations Scholarship at Achieve!Minneapolis, 111 3rd Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55401.


Horace Mann Mayo

Minneapolis Star Trib - August 1999

Horace M. Mayo died August 3, 1999 at age 71, with wife Wanda, age 69, in a car accident en route to a family celebration. He is survived by a son and a daughter and two granddaughters. He served in the U.S. Navy during WWII, graduated from St. Cloud State (BS & MS), taught industrial arts for 30 years (Southwest from 57-86) and was head wrestling coach. He also officiated for a variety high school and college sports. He was a member of the city, state and national teacher associations, the Scottish Rite, and was a certified parliamentarian. Besides fishing, hunting and traveling, he loved having coffee with the guys. 
 
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
 
Obituaries: Horace Mann Mayo, 71, Minneapolis teacher
Maria Elena Baca / Star Tribune
 
Horace Mann Mayo, 71, a former president of one of the Minneapolis teachers unions and an industrial arts teacher at Minneapolis Southwest High School, died Tuesday from injuries he received in a car accident near Kirkersville, Ohio. Mayo's wife, Wanda, also died in the accident, and his sister, Elizabeth Hiltz of Anoka, was in serious condition Wednesday night. They were en route to a family party in Audubon, N.J.
 
Bob Mayo remembers that his family took vacations to coincide with the annual meetings of the National Education Association, where his father, Horace Mann Mayo, was a delegate from the mid-1950s until he retired from education in 1985. "He felt he was making a difference," said Mayo, of Edina. "He was a very logical person. He could be a very even-keeled person, but at the same time he was a very assertive person. If things got out of control, whether it was in classroom, whether it was in a hallway or whether it was on a convention floor, he could make people listen or pay attention very quickly."
 
Mayo arrived at Southwest in 1957. By 1961, he was president of the City of Minneapolis Education Association, the city's chapter of the Minnesota Education Association (MEA). During his tenure, he tackled issues including the length of the school day and school year, teachers' pay and working conditions. He also served on the boards of directors for the city and state chapters of the union. Mayo served on the Committee of 13, a group comprising members of MEA and its rival, the American Federation of Teachers, to oversee management of teachers' retirement funds. "It was a marriage of political factions that were trying to do the bidding of the teaching staff of Minneapolis," said longtime friend and colleague Meyers Peterson. Despite his devotion to the union, Mayo was first and foremost a teacher, said Peterson, who knew Mayo from the time they shared a house at St. Cloud State Teachers College. Peterson, a longtime athletic director at Southwest High, said he recruited Mayo to come to the school to teach and create a wrestling program. Mayo also officiated other sports in Minnesota, North Dakota and Wisconsin. "I think if he has a legacy it is doing things for kids," Peterson said. "He was an exceedingly kind-hearted, hard-working person who seldom looked at his watch. He would work with a youngster as long as the youngster wanted to stay around and work."
 
Besides his son, Mayo is survived by his daughter Sandy Herrera, of Hopkins; sisters Elizabeth Hintz of Anoka; Dorothy Nunes of Walnut Creek, Calif., Mary Ann Mayo of Bothell, Wash., and Margaret Knutson of Rochester, Minn.; brothers Ernest B. Mayo, of Audubon, N.J. and Paul Mayo of Concord, Calif.
 
A memorial service will be held Aug. 13 at Lake Harriet United Methodist Church, 4901 Chowen Av. S. at a time yet to be determined.

Dale Halvorson Obituary
Published by Star Tribune on Jul. 6, 2008.

https://cache.legacy.net/legacy/images/cobrands/startribune/photos/11283832_07062008_1.jpg       

 

Halvorson, Dale F. age 71 of Chanhassen, formerly of Bloomington. Dale is a US Navy Veteran, SW High School teacher and coach for 31 years, U of M football player, was a member of the 1960 National Championship Team and a lifelong Gopher fan. Preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence & Eleanor, stepmother, Josephine Dietz and grandson, Luis. Survivors include his loving wife Mary of 47 yrs; children, Chris (Sandra) Halvorson of Brainerd, Nancy (German) Peralta of Burnsville, Sara Halvorson & Fernando Espejo of Chanhassen; grandchildren, Jose, Carlos, Laura and Ricardo; sister, Phyllis Berg of Bloomington; nieces, nephews, special cousins, relatives and many friends. Mass of Christian Burial Tuesday, 10 AM, at St Richard Catholic Church, 7540 Penn Ave. S. Richfield. Visitation is Monday, 4-8 PM at the Washburn-McReavy Funeral Chapel at Hwy 100 & 50th Ave. Edina and 1 hour prior to the service at church. If so desired memorials are preferred. Interment is at Ft Snelling National Cemetery.


Anthony Angellar
Minneapolis Star Trib - August 1990
    

Obituary for Anthony T. Angellar (Aged 53)
 

 
 

Edwin Anderson



Edwin was honored with the "Distinguished Citizen" Award at Macalester College at their most recent reunion held 2-4 June 2017. Edwin continues on today as a role model for us all.  writes his nominator. “Ed is a model of Macalester scholarship, dedication, service, and outreach.”  

Edwin Andersen graduated from Macalester with a passion for history and a job offer to teach it. Just before he started work, though, plans changed: his principal needed him to teach math instead. That changed assignment launched an extraordinary career in math education, and today Andersen’s legacy stretches beyond the thousands he taught himself. Over four decades at Minneapolis Public Schools and the University of Minnesota where he completed a PhD in math education, Andersen changed how students engage with math. He helped shift instruction from traditional exercises to broader problem solving, emphasizing adopting new technology. “When I started teaching in 1957, you’d put the algebraic rule on the board and ask students to memorize it,” he says. “But the world changes. We have to move forward.” Funded by National Science Foundation grants and other support, Andersen helped prepare more than 1,000 teachers to teach comprehensive math programs. He also studied how effective new methods were, building a database with 10,000 students and then tracking their performance at 35 colleges. He co-authored eight books on bringing Apple and Macintosh computers and graphing calculators into the classroom. He led Minneapolis to be the first major city to include instructional computing in all secondary schools. Outside the classroom, he co-founded Minnesota’s Math League for high school students and taught at Macalester’s Twin City Institute for Talented Youth for 25 years. “On the stage of math education, Ed is a star: an innovator and a consummate professional, reaching out with boundless creative energy to a broad audience and beloved by his students and colleagues” . Edwin was honored with the "Distinguished Citizen" Award at Macalester College at the most recent reunion held 2-4 June 2017. Edwin continues today as an academic role model.


Donald Rosholt

March 15, 1926 — May 15, 2013

Donald Rosholt Profile Photo                  

Funeral services for Donald Rosholt of Cyrus, MN will be held Tuesday, May 21, 2013 at 11:00 a.m. at St. John's Lutheran Church near Starbuck. Reverend Martha Hanson will be officiating. Visitation will be held Monday from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Pedersen Funeral Home in Morris and for one hour prior to services at the church on Tuesday. Burial will be Wednesday, May 22, 2013 at 10:45 a.m. in Fort Snelling National Cemetery in Minneapolis.

Donald died on Wednesday, May 15, 2013 at the Waconia Good Samaritan Center in Waconia, MN, having lived to reach the age of 87 years.

Donald was born March 15, 1926 to Herman and Olga (Hage) Rosholt in Minneapolis, MN. In 1938, his family moved to a farm near Cyrus, MN where he lived until entering the United States Navy V-5 officers training program in 1944.

Don met his wife, Rosalie Otters, at Luther College in Decorah, IA in 1946. They were married in 1948, the same year Don graduated with a major in mathematics and a minor in physics. His first teaching jobs were in Canton and St. Paul Park, MN.

In 1955, the family moved to Bloomington, MN and Don began working for the Minneapolis Public Schools. He received a Masters degree in Education Administration from the University of Minnesota in 1956. While in Minneapolis, he was a secondary teacher, counselor and assistant principal. After retiring from education in 1981, Don and Rosalie moved to the Rosholt family farm near Cyrus and began a second career in farming.

As a man of great faith and patriotism, Don was active in church and community affairs in both Bloomington and Cyrus. Don enjoyed being outdoors and led his family on many camping and hiking adventures. He was an avid woodworker and builder, and he and Rosalie built their home in Cyrus.

He is survived by two sons: David Rosholt of Richfield and John (Michelle) Rosholt of Montrose; two daughters: Donnis (Steven) Tolle of Highlands Ranch, CO and Linda (Lee) Hash of Appleton, WI; daughter-in-law: Debra Rosholt of Reedsburg, WI; one brother: Robert (Lucille) Rosholt of Decorah, IA; one sister: Jeanette Veum of Starbuck; 12 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, son, Paul, and granddaughter, Molly Rosholt.

Memorials may be given to St. John's Lutheran Church, Starbuck, MN, ReClaim Resources, St. Paul, MN and Luther College, Decorah, IA.

Walter H. Williams
July 31, 2004

Walter H. Williams             

Williams Walter H. "Coach" Williams, age 79, died peacefully surrounded by his family July 31, 2004. He was a longtime basketball coach and teacher at Mpls Southwest High School. Survived by wife of 56 years, Sally; son, Dan; daughters, Linda (Lee) Alexander, Nancy, Stacy (John) Koscielski, and Kelly; grandson, Cory; and other relatives & friends. Memorial service 2 PM, visitation 1 PM Wednesday, Aug. 4 at Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd, 48th St. & France Ave S. Cremation Society of MN Edina 952-924-4100
 
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Walter Williams died August 2004 at age 79 of heart failure 3 years after suffering a stroke. A social studies teacher and basketball coach, he reached the 300 career-victory mark at a time when a standard season was about 14 games long. Born in Clarkfield, MN he joined the Navy right out of high school in 1942 and served in the South Pacific during WWII.

With a year's college credit in hand from the Navy, he attended Luther College in Decorah, Iowa, graduating in 1949. He met and married Sally Hoeg in Decorah, and starred as a basketball center at 6 feet, 5 inches.

His first teaching and coaching job was in Farmington. In 1955 he took a job in Lake City and was there until 1958 when on the recommendation of Art Fredrickson he applied for and was hired as a teacher and basketball coach at Southwest.

WhenTitle IX was implemented he coached girl's track. Walt retired in 1980.
 


Walt Williams’ Court was formally dedicated before the game on Wednesday, January 17, 2017. In attendance were the Williams family (photo - Dan, Stacy Williams and Linda) along with 45-50 former players and other alumni. Made possible by a donation from a 1961 player who greatly admired Walt, the court sports a new floor, lights and additional amenities.

 

Carmen C. Caruso
Published on March 2, 2016

         

Caruso, Carmen C. age 94 of Mpls, WWII USAAF Veteran, CONUS Service, member of the St. Anthony Society, 30 year teacher Mpls. Public Schools. Preceded in death by wife, W. Patricia "Paddy"; parents, John and Mary; siblings, Ann, John, Joe, Mally, Frank, Rosemary and Tom. Survived by children, C. Charles (Therese), Cathleen Smith, Rita (Kevin) Gildner, Teri (Jeff) Caruso, and Richard; grandchildren Colleen, Dominic, Anthony, Daniel, Michael, Brett, Brianna and Mark; great-granddaughter, Kylie and sister, Julie "Sal" Pinski. Mass of Christian Burial Friday 10:30 AM, Church of the Annunciation, 509 W 54th St. Interment Fort Snelling National Cemetery. Visitation Thursday 4-8 PM, Gill Brothers Southwest Funeral Home, 5801 Lyndale Ave S and 1 hour prior to Mass at church. If so desired, memorials may be directed to Sharing and Caring Hands. Gill Brothers 612-861-6088 
 

Maurice "Maury" Webert
Published on August 19, 2018


Maurice Webert   

Webert, Maurice "Maury" E. 79 of Plymouth, joined his Heavenly Father August 11 after succumbing to rare Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease. He is survived by wife, Nancy; sons, Mark (Beth), Mike (Kiersten), Tim (Kris); and eight grandchildren. Maury was a beloved history/economics teacher and coach in numerous Minneapolis Public High Schools. His 34 years teaching continued into retirement, teaching conversational English in China numerous times. High School sports were equally important to Maury from announcing hockey games at the old auditorium, to coaching wrestling, track & field, and football. After retirement Maury coached the WI Hayward Hurricanes and ended his coaching career at Burnsville HS. Maury and Nancy enjoyed retirement residing seasonally in Naples Florida where he was President of his condo building, started a popular Great Decisions program for the community and interspersed his active FL life with many international travels. A private family service has already been held. In lieu of flowers, the family prefers donations to the Creutzfeldt-Jakob Foundation, NC Little Hospice or a charity of your choice.
 

Frenchie Roan Rogers
September 9, 1922 - September 8, 2012
       

 

Rogers, Frenchie Roan of Charleston, South Carolina, formerly of Minneapolis, Minnesota, widow of Judson Conley Rogers entered into eternal rest Saturday, September 8, 2012, a day before her 90th birthday. Her memorial service will be held Tuesday, September 11, 2012 in Somerby of Mount Pleasant, 3100 Tradition Circle, at 10:00 a.m.. Interment, Lakewood Cemetery, Minneapolis, Minnesota. Mrs. Rogers was born September 9, 1922 in Farmerville, Louisiana, daughter of Jesse A. Roan and Camille Stancil Roan. She was a graduate of Louisiana Tech University and a retired Physical Education Teacher & Coach. She was beloved mother and friend of her daughter, Beverly Waggoner and husband, Phillip, of Charleston, SC, her grandson, Judson Brady Waggoner and wife, Jennifer, and two great-grandchildren, Sousa Waggoner and Juddy Waggoner. Memorials may be made to Odyssey Hospice, 5965 Core Road, North Charleston, SC 29406. Arrangements by J. HENRY STUHR INC., DOWNTOWN CHAPEL. A memorial message may be sent to the family by visiting our website at www.jhenrystuhr.com

Banks, Albert C.
27 September 1921–22 November 1998

         

Boys PE & Health
Assistant Football Coach

Albert C. Banks died of leukemia at age 77 in Edina. He was born in Ely, MN where he lettered in football, basketball and baseball in high school and at St. Cloud State. He earned his Masters in P.E. at the University of Northern Colorado. He was a veteran of WWII. The last 25 years of his 36 year teaching career (P.E. and Health) were at Southwest. He coached baseball and girls’ gymnastics. He retired in 1982 and was named the Coach of the Year of Girls’ Gymnastics for the Minneapolis schools that year. He served as the state president of the American Association of Health, Physical Education and Recreation and worked on a national advisory committee for a medical self-help plan. Always a huge sports fan, he refereed and coached for St. Peter’s Lutheran Church School. In 1990 he received WCCO Radio’s Good Neighbor Award for his volunteer work. He was survived by his wife, Doris, and a daughter. His son died in 1987 in Alaska.

 
Lorraine Telander 
December 8, 2001

Lorraine Telander, age 87, passed away December 8. She is survived by her brother, Norman; niece, Barbara Heilman; nephew, Philip Telander. Her working career including teaching at Willow River, parish secretary at Mt. Olivet Lutheran Church, Dean of Women at Gustavus Adolphus College where she continued to be involved in various committees after leaving to teach at Southwest High School. A memorial service will be held at Mt. Olivet Lutheran Church in Mpls. at 11:00 AM on Dec. 27th. Memorials to Youth Programs at Mt. Olivet or a charity of your choice would be preferred.

Albert (Al) Halley 
August, 1986

Al Halley In 1969 Al Halley was named cross country coach of the year. In 1973 he was named to the Minnesota State cross country coaches’ Hall of Fame. In 1983, he entered the Minnesota State High School Coaches’ Association Hall of Fame. In 1967, he had been the head coach of track and cross country at Southwest for 26 years. During that time he had coached more than 40 individuals and teams to state championships, two All-Americans and enumerable city champions. He was a graduate of the University of South Dakota. Before coming to Southwest he had coached in South Dakota and Wisconsin and was also assistant basketball and track coach at Washburn. His classroom was lined with pictures of state championship track and cross country individuals and teams. He was faculty advisor of our "S" club and faculty chairman for our homecoming.  The Southwest Foundation awards an Al Halley Scholarship, funded mainly by the Crary Golf Tournament.

 


(Published September 2, 1986)


John Martin Socha
(1913-1983)

John Martin Socha was a Works Progress Administration (WPA) supported Minnesota artist during the Depression of the 1930s. Well regarded by fellow WPA artists of the time, Socha's works were based on personal interviews with pioneers, as well as his intimate knowledge of the region.

As a teenager, Socha studied in Mexico with world-renowned artist Diego Rivera. Rivera's influence on Socha can be clearly seen in the large murals Socha painted in public buildings throughout Minnesota as part of the WPA program.

Socha's work can be found in the National Gallery of Art in Washington D.C., the Art Institute of Chicago, as well as in the Minneapolis Institute of Arts.

 

Click to see Socha's Somsen Hall Mural at Winona State University 

 "King of the Blues" - B.B. King

John Martin Socha  -   Portrait in Watercolor and Ink on Paper   1955

 

 

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Mark Bruner




 		 RE: Don Stoyke
Posted Monday, March 17, 2025 09:19 PM 

I just read the Obit. page, very interesting history about the men and women who so deeply influenced our lives.  The one who stands out for me most was Don Stoyke.  I played cornet in 7th thru 9th grade, then trumpet -- now for 60 years total, never put it down yet..  I owe so much to Don Stoyke, its hard to write it down here. His stage band was my first exposure to Big Band swing, and the foundations he gave me have made my life of music inevitable.  He was the one teacher I had consistently, daily,  for all my 6 years through SW Junior and Senior High.  His trumpet playing was always an inspiration to me, and so many others. 

In 1974-5, Don taught trumpet to applied music students from Normandale Community Coll. So two years after I graduated from SW, I was back under his instruction once again!  I remember sometimes I would have to take lessons at SW at 7.:15 in the morning, in order to fit our busy schedules. Don would always be there from about 6:30 am, practicing his trumpet, keeping his chops up for the many shows, circus gigs, and dance bands he played with around the Twin Cities.  Its quite rare to find a player still professionally active after some 20 years as a full-time school band director.  Don didn't only teach it, he lived it. What an example he set for us. What dedication! 

     I still have the etude books in which he wrote study notes for me, the last one marked April 1975. By then Tim Sullivan, Pete Masters, Dave Slettin, Tom Nehls, Brett Forberg, Steve Benson (all former students at Southwest) and myself were all playing professionally with the Wolverines.  THere is no question that Don's inspiration and musicality influenced us towards professional music careers. I ended up graduating from U of Minn, and taught band and choir for 15 years--In Minn. Okla. and Texas, and later in Slovakia and Czech Rep.

      I'm now 70 myself, and still trying to catch up to Don! Still playing, still teaching and passing along that passion for music, for jazz, for "Spaghetti music!" as he called it, for Shostakovic, J.P. Sousa, and Glenn Miller, Harry James, Buck Clayton, Roy Eldridge, Doc Severinson, . But for me, Don Stoyke was the man who shaped me into a musician for life. Not just as a player, but as an educator. Thanks "Big Don".  I wish I could have told you in person, but somehow, in the grace of heaven, you know our gratitude, mine and hundreds and hundreds of others.