May 28, 2010
Principals announce staff retirements
By MARY ANN HUGHES (Message staff writer)
There will be sad good-byes at schools throughout the Diocese of Evansville as staff members end their careers. Here is a list of retirements this year, provided by principals.
EVANSVILLE
“At this point, three teachers at Mater Dei plan to retire at the end of this school year,” said Tad Dickel. They include Carolyn Adler, Joe Dippel and Dan Becker.
“Carolyn Adler has been a member of the physical education department for several years. In addition to teaching, Carolyn was instrumental in developing our girls’ athletic program from its infancy and served as a coach for several sports. She plans to stay involved at Mater Dei as a substitute teacher.
“Joe Dippel is retiring from teaching physical education at Mater Dei. Before Joe returned to the classroom full-time, he served as the athletic director during arguably some of the most successful years for our athletic programs. Joe will continue to be active with our athletic programs.
“Dan Becker has been a dedicated member of the Mater Dei English faculty for 11 years. He is highly regarded as an excellent teacher and has also served as a department chair and school improvement committee chair.”
JASPER
“Rita Daunhauer, who has worked in our cafeteria for 19 years will retire at the end of the school year, said Jeanne Heltzel, principal at Holy Family School in Jasper.
We thank Rita for her many years of dedication to our school.”
She added that “Ruth Ann Guthery has worked at Holy Family School for 42 years. During this time, Mrs. Guthery ran the school office and was also athletic director for our school for 41 years.
“Mrs. Guthery was a recipient of the Holy Family School Distinguished Family Award and was a dedicated employee.
“We wish her the best and thank her for all she has done for the students, staff and families.”
MOUNT VERNON
“Our theme this year is ‘We Are Called,’” writes Vickie Wan-nemuehler, principal at St. Matthew School in Mount Vernon.
“As the end of the school year approaches, a few of our staff members have heard God calling them to begin a new phase of their journey with him.
“First, is Rachel Fleming at the Child Care Ministry. Rachel is studying nursing, and will begin working full-time at a doctor’s office. Congratulations, Rachel! We’re proud of you! We will miss you!
“Also, Norma Feldhaus has decided to retire at the end of this year. Mrs. Feldhaus has taught for the Diocese of Evansville for 23 years. Her first year of teaching was at Ascension school where she taught fourth grade. She has been at St. Matthew School for 22 years! Norma taught junior high for 14 years and has taught fifth grade for the past 8 years. She will leave behind big shoes to fill! We are so excited for you as you and Mr. Feld-haus begin your retirements together!
“And Candy Tolliver will be retiring this year. We are currently working at filling her position — which is a very difficult task because no one works harder at keeping our school clean and looking its best than Candy does! Candy has graciously agreed to help with the transition and training of the new custodian. Thank you all for your service and ministry to the students and staff at St. Matthew School!”
She added, “Amanda Martin, Child Care Ministry director, and her husband are expecting their fourth child in October. After much thought and prayer, Mrs. Martin has decided to become a full-time, stay-at-home mother. We are very happy for Mrs. Martin, but we will miss her greatly! Thank you, Mrs. Martin, for all you’ve done for our children and for our Child Care Ministry program! We hope you will come back and visit!”
WASHINGTON
“With much appreciation, Washington Catholic would like to thank Mrs. Bonnie Werne and Ms. Martha Padgett for their years of service,” writes David Memmer, principal of the three Washington Catholic schools.
“Ms. Padgett and Mrs. Werne are exemplary teachers who have led by example. WC has been blessed to have such gifted teachers whose impact will be long lasting.”