Thank You

- Stories Behind the Scholarships -

To the hundreds of people who have collectively donated over

$2 million dollars to the students of Elkhorn, we want to
recognize your generosity and kindness. To donate money to
strangers for the good of the community is a gift that has
nourished the minds of more than 1,700 Elkhorn Area High
School graduates. Money donated has eased the increasing
burden of tuition, room, board and books and trumpeted a small
town's commitment to propelling its youth beyond its borders.
We celebrate that our donors have been rich and poor, educated
and not. We honor the legacy of those memorialized by others,
and those who created their own scholarships. Some were
pillars of the community, others were silent in their benevolence.
Still others left us before their time. They have run our banks,
taught in our schools and delivered our mail. These are their
stories.

ARTHUR AND VIRA DESING

On a cold, wintry day in December of 1917, Miss Vira MacKenzie and
Arthur Desing were married in the MacKenzie family home in Elkhorn. The
young teacher and the future bank president were beginning a life together
filled with hard work, service to community, good times with family and
friends and generosity beyond compare.
The week after their wedding, Mr. Desing,
an assistant cashier at the First National Bank in
Elkhorn, left for Jacksonville, Florida, to report
Vira MacKenzie Desing
for duty at Camp Johnston. Arthur served as an
Dec. 25, 1892April 19, 1987
enlisted member of the Quartermaster Corps in
the U.S. Army during World War I. He was born
in Elkhorn on August 29, 1888. He graduated from Elkhorn High School in
the class of 1907 and was a member of the first basketball team to
represent the high school when the first gymnasium was completed. The
team was known as "The Iron Men" as they had only one sub, and the boys
competed in the state tournament. After high school, Art studied two years
The Iron Men
at the University of Wisconsin in the School of Commerce. He left Madison
Art Desing is third from the left.
when he was offered a job at the First National Bank in Elkhorn.
Vira MacKenzie was born on December 25, 1892, in Elkhorn. She graduated from Elkhorn High
School in 1910. After high school, Miss MacKenzie continued her studies at Lewis Institute in Chicago,
Illinois, where she prepared for a teaching career. Vira taught "domestic science" in Sharon,
Wisconsin, for three years. During the fall of 1917, she returned to Chicago, where she was a teaching
supervisor at the Gads Hill Settlement, one of Chicago's first family resource centers. After the
Desings wed in December of 1917, and Arthurs departure for the military, Vira returned to the
settlement to help young immigrant families improve their lives and work for
the betterment of the community. The Gads Hill Center, as it is called
today, continues to be one of the oldest and most respected non-profit
organizations in the city of Chicago.
When Arthur returned from World War I, the newlyweds resumed
their lives in Elkhorn. Mr. Desing was prominent in civic affairs and was an
active member of the Walworth County and state banker's associations. He
spent his entire career working at The First National Bank of Elkhorn, where
he first worked as a high school student during summer vacations. He
became the President of the Bank in 1940, and continued to work in that
position until his death in 1959.
Arthur worked hard to bring new industry to Elkhorn and to provide
opportunities for its citizens. He was one of the founding members of the
Elkhorn Development Corporation and one of the organizers of the Walworth
County Abstract Company. A charter member of the Elkhorn Kiwanis Club,
he served as its treasurer for more than 25 years. He served as the
treasurer of the Masonic Lodge for more than 30 years.
continued on next page

"The

value of a man should be in what he gives."

Albert Einstein
4

I resolved to stop accumulating and begin the infinitely more serious and difficult task of wise distribution.
Andrew Carnegie
Continued from previous page

Mr. and Mrs. Desing had many family members and friends in and around Elkhorn. The Elkhorn
Independent called them a "Popular couple with scores of friends." Informal gatherings were common
at the Desing home on Winsor Street, and family fishing trips organized by Art are remembered by his
nephews, including Frank Eames. Mrs. Desing was active in community organizations including the
Eastern Star.
The Desings were born in Elkhorn more than 100 years ago. They had no children, and most of
their close relatives preceded them in death. In 1984, a few years before Mrs. Desing's death in 1987,
she executed a charitable trust designating various bequests. Money was left to friends, family,
churches, business associates, charitable organizations, etc. The largest single bequest was left to the
Elkhorn Area High School with specific instructions to establish a scholarship board for deserving
students. The scholarship to be administered by that board would be called "The Arthur C. and Vira
Desing Scholarship" and formed a strong basis for the Elkhorn Area High School Scholarship
Foundation.
Arthur and Vira Desing were generous throughout their lives, giving of their time, sharing their
talents and expertise, serving the community, and working to make Elkhorn a better place. Their
generosity lives on through this incomparable gift.

BLACKSMITH SHOP AND OLD HOME

East Geneva Street between Washington and Lincoln
The shop was torn down when the Ficken Oil Co. station
was built in 1939. A shop was later constructed near
the back of the old home and served
until the death of A.F. Desing.
A.F. Desing is the father of Arthur Desing.

The home of Arthur and Vira Desing.

LESTER R. JOHNSON
Les Johnson was born in Geneva, Illinois, on May 5, 1929. He was raised on
the family farm. He graduated from the University of Illinois and served in the
United States Marine Corps from 1951 to 1953. He married Barbara McClure in
1954. They raised four children, Debbie, Sue, Steve, and Ted, all of whom
graduated from Elkhorn Area High School.
After serving in the Marine Corps, Mr. Johnson was employed by the Surge
Dairy Equipment Company for several years before coming to the Production Credit
Association of Elkhorn in 1958. He became the Chief Executive Officer in 1960 and
served in that capacity until 1983. Mr. Johnson had a flair for business promotion
and innovation. He was responsible for the development of many of the related service programs that PCA
clients enjoyed. During his PCA career, Les served on numerous committees for the Seventh Farm Credit
District.
Mr. Johnson was also active in community affairs. He was a former member of the Elkhorn School
Board and the Gateway Technical Institute Agricultural Advisory Committee. He served on the Elkhorn
Development Committee and was a past president and member of the Elkhorn Lion's Club. He also was a
member of the Walworth County Fair Board and served as its treasurer.
Lester Johnson's family and friends chose to honor his memory with the establishment of a
scholarship set up in 1983. He always stressed the importance of education and was committed to
educational values and goals. This scholarship is offered to students pursuing further education in
agriculture or agribusiness or special education. It is funded by donations from family and friends, and in
earlier years, was supported by fundraising golf outings.

"The greatest use of a life is to spend it for something that will outlast it."

William James

JON ERIC JACOBSON

Jon Jacobson, the son of Jon and Virginia Jacobson, was a member of the
Elkhorn Area High School class of 1987. He had planned to go on to college after
graduating from high school, and major in English.
Jon loved literature and was inspired by his favorite teacher, James
Wehner, a favorite of many students over the years. Jon also intended to
continue to pursue his interests in music and drama. He sang in the high school
choir and was a member of the Fine Arts Club. Jon loved reading, drama, the
symphony, and vocal music. Jon was an accomplished wind surfer and the proud owner of a parrot
named Rerun and a pet python named Decon.
He had two brothers, and his favorite song was Billy Joel's "Piano Man. Jon was a caring,
sensitive young man with a wonderful sense of humor and countless friends. A fellow student was
quoted, some time before Jon's death, as saying, "If there's one guy in high school who NOBODY will
have a bad word about, it's Jon Jacobson."
This scholarship is primarily intended for an English major, and secondarily for the arts, music
and drama. Jon Eric Jacobson's family and close friends have generously funded this award to honor
his memory.
6

ROBERTA AVONN FISKUM

Roberta A. Fiskum, the daughter of Robert and Yvonne
Fiskum, graduated from Elkhorn Area High School in 1981. She was
an outstanding athlete and a gifted artist. Roberta continued her
studies at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, where she
received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Graphic Arts.
Ms. Fiskum traveled throughout Mexico, Central America and
Peru. The art of these countries inspired her creative nature. Her
mentor, art professor Amy Arntson, described Roberta as "an
extremely creative, talented individual whose work showed a special
sensitivity and intelligence." Roberta worked as a free-lance
artist. The Roberta Avonn Fiskum Art Gallery at UW-Whitewater
is named for her and dedicated to the memory of this young gifted artist. The gallery
features student and faculty artwork, collections and special exhibits.
In high school, Roberta participated in track and tennis. She was the manager for the
wrestling team. Her passion for art was not limited only to visual and graphic arts. She was
also a talented musician having enrolled in music studies at the age of 3. She was the organist
for the Elkhorn UCC Church during her teen years, and she played the organ at the Fontana
Community Church from 1988 to 1993. Robertas parents shared that Roberta loved cats and
life. This memorial scholarship awarded to an outstanding female athlete was established by
her parents in 1994.

Think of giving not as a duty but as a privilege.

John D. Rockefeller, Jr.

WILLIAM J. MORRISSEY
William Morrissey graduated from Elkhorn Area High School in
1946. In 2009, he and his wife, Mary Ellen, established a large
scholarship fund with a cash donation to the Elkhorn High School
Scholarship Foundation.
In Mr. Morrissey's words, "After receiving 11 varsity letters in
high school, I was awarded the Legion medal in 1946. There was no
monetary fund associated with it, and to my knowledge there never has
been. Therefore, I have set up a fund, and the interest can be paid each
year to the recipients of the award."
Mr. Morrissey and his late wife lived in Elkhorn their entire lives, and raised two
children, both of whom attended Elkhorn schools. Mr. Morrissey is a retired banker.
7

BARBARA JANE WARD MORRISSEY

Griebel/Ward/Morrissey
In 1951, when Walworth County became the sixth county in the state to offer speech and language
services to school children, Miss Barbara Ward was selected to do the job. She traveled all over the county to
six villages, four cities and over 100 rural schools. She was a graduate of Elkhorn High School in 1941 and earned
a Bachelors degree from Marquette University in 1944. Her Masters degree was in Speech and Language
Therapy, and she taught in Eau Claire, Watertown, and West Allis, before returning to Walworth County.
Sixteen years after coming back to Walworth County, on January 14, 1967, Miss Ward married Al
Morrissey. Mrs. Morrissey enjoyed a close relationship with her new stepdaughters, Jean and Mary Morrissey,
whom she called "my daughters of the heart." They affectionately referred to her as their "other mother."
Mrs. Morrissey finished her teaching career working for the Lake Geneva School District, retiring in
1985. Barbara Ward Morrissey was an active, energetic woman who enjoyed many years of volunteering. Her
service was appreciated by Aurora Lakeland Medical Center, Meals on Wheels, Elkhorn Food Pantry, Vintage on
the Pond, Walworth County Area Retired Educators Association, St. Patrick's Church and School, and the
Elkhorn Area School District. She was also a member of the American Legion Ladies Auxiliary Post #45. Mr. and
Mrs. Morrissey were active in church affairs, and devoted more than 30 years to the St Patrick's choir.
Mrs. Morrissey was an extremely active person, relishing travel, movies, reading and card playing.
Barbaras husband, Al, once said, If there was a bus leaving Elkhorn for adventure, Barbara was sure to be on it.
After Barbara's husband passed away in 1995, she continued to fill her days with volunteer work and
community activities. She had scores of friends and many family members in the area. She was dedicated to
education and helped with speech and kindergarten screening for the Elkhorn Area School District. She most
likely never missed an Elkhorn Homecoming Parade, Honors Night, Graduation, play or concert. If children were
performing or being honored, she was there to support them. She was a dedicated audience participant at every
Holton Band Concert, and was a truly wonderful person filled with charm and wit.
Mrs. Morrissey's estate is responsible for three different scholarships. The first is the Jean F.
Morrissey and Mary E. Morrissey Memorial Scholarship honoring her two stepdaughters. The second is the
Griebel/Ward/Morrissey Scholarship which honors the memory of her mother's family, her father's family and
her husband's family, in that order. The third scholarship is the Barbara Jane Ward Morrissey Memorial
Scholarship which Mrs. Morrissey set up before her death to provide financial assistance to Elkhorn graduates
planning to study at a technical, vocational or four-year college.
When you learn, teach.

When you get, give."

--Maya Angelou

JEAN F. MORRISSEY
Jean Morrissey was born in Elkhorn on July 13, 1940. Jean loved
children and was devoted to teaching. She completed her elementary
education degree at University of Wisconsin - Whitewater, and then
embarked on a 38-year teaching career, working at St. Patrick's Catholic
School, and Tibbets and West Side Elementary Schools. After retiring in
2000, Jean continued to stay involved by substitute teaching and working on
special projects for the Elkhorn Area School District, as well as by tutoring
students.
The Morrissey family was entrenched with strong moral obligations to
home, family, vocation, volunteerism, and community service, and Jean did her
fair share. She was involved in 4-H and Walworth County Fair events including
the Little Old School House at the fair. She was a member of the Aurora
Lakeland Hospital Auxiliary, the Holton-Elkhorn Band, and she taught religious
education at St Patrick's Catholic Church.
(continued on next page)

Barbara and Jean Morrissey

8

JEAN F. MORRISSEY
Continued

"She was one of the kindest and most gentle persons you would ever want to know," said her friend, Jan
Brockmann. "She valued her family, friends, her Christian life, her community, and especially the children whom
she taught. Jean was especially gifted with musical talents and talents in the arts. For many years, Jean and
her sister Mary supported community children in 4-H Clubs in Elkhorn and Walworth County 4-H events of music
and drama.
Miss Morrissey's scholarship was set up by her stepmother, Barbara Ward Morrissey, after Jean's
death in 2008. Her "other mother," as she affectionately called her, renamed the Mary E. Morrissey Memorial
Scholarship as the Jean F. and Mary E. Memorial Scholarship to honor both of her "daughters of the
heart. Besides showing a good academic record and plans for further study, the recipient of this scholarship
must have a strong commitment to community service, as shown by their history of volunteer work.
As Jean's friend Jan said, "Jean never tired of educating herself through reading, arts, crafting, and
giving to others. Jean modestly carried a song in her heart at all times leaving a special legacy to all with her
caring attitude and wonderful smile." She enriched this community and the lives of everyone she touched.

"Education is simply the soul of society as it passes from one generation to another."

GK Chesterson

MARY E. MORRISSEY
Journalist Mary Morrissey was a native of Elkhorn. After graduating from
Elkhorn High School in 1963, she studied journalism at the University of Wisconsin
- Whitewater. She was the former editor of the News Graphic, Delavan, and state
editor of the Beloit Daily News before coming to the Elkhorn Independent in
1975.
At the Elkhorn Independent, she worked for ten years as Sports Editor,
and became the News Editor in 1985. She was the winner of Wisconsin Newspaper
Association awards for her sports column Outside the Locker Room, and for her
photography. She also received recognition from the local Southern Lakes
Conference and Wisconsin Wrestling Association. She was the 1985 recipient of
the Elkhorn Rotary Clubs Service Above Self award. Mary was a dedicated professional who was well
respected in the community. She spent hours covering sports, news and community events.
When she wasn't working, she was volunteering for numerous causes, many involving young people. Mary
was a long-time 4-H leader and a volunteer counselor for Pregnancy Helpline. She wrote and directed many of
the All County 4-H Musicals and was an original member of the Black Box Theater Board, as well as a member of
the Walworth County Senior Leaders Association. She also was a member of the Board of Directors of the
Goldie B. Floberg Center for Children, and was active in the Illinois Child Care Association. Mary was an avid
writer, and wrote many, many short stories for her family and friends to enjoy.
Mary was the subject of an Elkhorn Independent editorial, by former editor/owner Frank Eames,
who commemorated her for "touching lives through the medium of her work" and her "intense involvement with
so many community activities, mostly involving young people. She was ideally suited to her profession of
journalism because her force was communications. More importantly was her ability to listen."
After Mary passed away in 1987, at the age of 41, her sister Jean established a scholarship to honor her
memory. It was called the Mary Morrissey Memorial Scholarship. After Jean passed away in 2008, their
stepmother, Barbara Morrissey, took over the responsibility for the scholarship renaming it the Jean F. and
Mary E. Morrissey Memorial Scholarship.
Find a need and fill it.
Ruth Stafford Peale
9

RAYMOND GRUMAN
Ray Gruman, former principal of the Elkhorn Area Middle School,
graduated from the University of Wisconsin - Platteville and received his
Masters degree from Winona State University in Minnesota. The son of Tom and
Eileen Gruman of Wisconsin Dells, Ray was born on July 1, 1965. Ray met his wife,
Sherry, also a UW-Platteville graduate, when she was the piano accompanist for
the men's choir at the university. Ray and Sherry married and had two
daughters, Taylor and Mady, who attended school in Elkhorn before moving to
Burlington.
Ray's administrative career in education spanned 13 years. He taught for
five years before becoming the principal of a K-6 elementary school in Glenwood
City, Wisconsin.
Ray then joined the Elkhorn Area School District in 1994, where he
served as the Middle School principal for six years. In the fall of 2000, he became the principal of Cooper
Elementary School in Burlington.
Ray was a gifted singer and athlete, who wrestled and played rugby in college. Ray was a loving, caring and
supportive dad and husband, who always put his family first. According to Sherry, Ray was a kid at heart, and you
couldnt ask for a better father, husband or friend.
While in Elkhorn, he was a member of and past president of the Elkhorn Rotary Club. The Elkhorn Rotary
Club has set up and funded this scholarship to honor his life and his service to the Elkhorn Area School District.

"I don't think you ever stop giving. I really don't. I think it is
an on-going process. And its not just about being able to write
a check. Its being able to touch somebody's life."
Oprah Winfrey

CHARLES PAPCKE
Charles Papcke lived his life exemplifying the virtues of hard work, devotion to
family, and service to community. He was a life-long resident of Walworth County,
born in 1926 to Carl and Lillian Papcke. He attended Millard School and
Whitewater City High School. In 1948, he graduated from the University of
Wisconsin, having attained the Farm Short Course Degree. Also in 1948, he
married Elaine Sweno. Mr. Papcke was deeply involved in the agriculture community
and was involved in various other community pursuits.
Charles served on the Elkhorn Area School Board and was Board President for
part of that time. He was a life member of the Walworth County Fair, and a charter member of the Walworth
County Young Homesteaders. He served as a supervisor on the Town Board of Sugar Creek Township for many
years. Charles and Elaine and their four children hosted the first Walworth County Dairy Breakfast in 1977 at the
family farm on County Road A. They hosted again 24 years later in 2001 at the County Fairgrounds. He was active
in LaGrange 4H, Whitewater FFA, Elkhorn FFA, Walworth County Farm Bureau, Wisconsin Master Farmers
Association, Associated Milk Producers, Walworth County Farm Service Agency, and the Walworth County Land
Conservation Committee.
A scholarship honoring Mr. Papcke's memory was established in 2008 funded by family, friends, and the Elkhorn
FFA Alumni. It is awarded each year to a student who is pursuing additional study in agriculture or agri-business.
10

JOYCE MESSERSCHMIDT
Joyce Messerschmidt was first and foremost a teacher. School was her life; she cared
deeply for her students. Joyce spent 45 years teaching, guiding, inspiring young children. She
was loved by students, parents and fellow teachers.
Joyce was born September 2, 1928, in LaGrange Township. After graduating from Elkhorn
High School in 1946, she attended the Racine-Kenosha Normal School, earning her two-year
teaching degree. Miss Messerschmidt earned her Bachelors degree at the University of
Wisconsin-Whitewater in 1957, and a Masters of Teaching in 1973.
Joyce began her teaching career in Sharon, Wisconsin. She then taught first and second
grades for the Elkhorn School District for more than 30 years at both Tibbets and West Side
schools. According to her colleague, Arlene Lyons, Those of us who taught first grade with
Joyce were known as you girls. She watched over us just as she did her students.
Joyce was a member of the Theta Chapter, Alpha Delta Kappa Sorority, an international
honorary organization of women educators dedicated to excellence, altruism and world
understanding. She was a member of the Tibbets Grange and a retired member of the Wisconsin
and National Education Associations.
Joyce's life and memory are honored with this scholarship in her name provided for
Elkhorn Area High School Students which was set up in 2005.

You make a living by what you get; you make a life by what you give.

Winston Churchill

THELMA ADAMS MEYER

Thelma Adams Meyer graduated from Elkhorn High School in 1950.
After high school, she enjoyed a career in the legal system; first as a legal
secretary, and later, serving 25 years as Deputy Clerk of Court and Deputy
Register in Probate for Walworth County. In 1983, she took a job as a Jury
Matron for a few years.
Mrs. Meyer states, "My parents were financially unable to send me to college. I was lucky
to have had good jobs without a college education. It has always been my aim and desire to help
someone who wanted a college education and was financially unable to do so." Mrs. Meyer created
the scholarship fund in 2006 in honor of her parents, Rex and Amanda Adams, who were farmers
in the Elkhorn Area. She provides this award for a student pursuing a technical or vocational
degree.
Mrs. Meyer and her husband, Gerald, enjoy reading, walking, crafts and working in their
garden. It is Thelma Adams Meyer's hope that this scholarship "will help some individual each
year to obtain a further education and help them to make a better life for themself."
11

THE ELKHORN MEDAL OF HONOR

This scholarship is given in honor of Joseph Golden, a dedicated school board member
for many years, who set up this award in 1985. Originally called "The Badge of Courage, Mr.
Golden funded this award but wished to remain anonymous.
Joe wrote, "In the year 1984, I saw a great act of courage, kindness and concern, of
and for others, done by one of the students. His wish was that a student such as this would
be nominated by a fellow student and thus honored. He encouraged all students to nominate
someone. "Write a few lines about a deed or action of a classmate who you think showed
courage, kindness or concern for others." He told the students that whether or not their
nomination was chosen, they would have the satisfaction of knowing that they took part in
the action.
Mr. Golden funded the scholarship for 17 years, after which time the Scholarship
Foundation took over the monetary responsibilities.
Joseph Louis Golden was born August 28, 1917, in Chicago, Illinois. He graduated from
Oak Park High School, and served in the 3rd Armored Division of the U.S. Army from 1941 to
1945. While he was doing maneuvers in southern California, Pearl Harbor was attacked. He
spent Christmas Day of 1944 participating in the Battle of the
Bulge. On December 29, 1945, Joe married Rosemary Casey at St.
Patrick's Church in Elkhorn. The Goldens had four children,
Robert, Patrick, Joe, and Claire, all of whom graduated from
Elkhorn Area High School.
Joe was a journeyman carpenter for over 25 years. He
taught religious education at St. Patrick's Catholic Church, where
he also served on the Parish Council. Mr. Golden was active in
political and school district affairs for many years. He was elected
to the School Board in 1977, and also served three years on the
EAHS Scholarship Foundation. Mr. Golden was active in numerous
referendums in the 1960s for the new high school. According to
his son, Joe, Jr., Joe had a propensity for being photographed
with Congressman Les Aspin.
Joe was devoted to educational causes and never stopped
Joe Golden, Sr., Congressman Les
caring about and for the children of this community. He passed
Aspin, and Aspins dog, Junkett
away on March 24, 2005.

What we have done for ourselves alone dies with us.

What we have done for others remains and is immortal.
Albert Pike

12

Education is more than a luxury; it is a responsibility that society owes to itself.

Robin Cook

THOMAS G. GODFREY
Thomas Godfrey, the son of Alfred and Helen Godfrey, was born on March 4, 1921. He was a member of
Elkhorn High School's class of 1938. After graduating from UW-Madison in 1942, he enlisted in the US
Army. When his basic training was completed, he was stationed in Hawaii until the end of World War II. He then
returned to Madison, graduated from the University of Wisconsin Law School, and was admitted to the Wisconsin
State Bar in 1947. Mr. Godfrey practiced law in Elkhorn for 49 years at the Godfrey Law Firm, which his father
founded in 1920. Mr. Godfrey never retired from the practice of law; as his father before him, he worked in the
firm until his death.
Mr. Godfrey was a lifetime resident of Elkhorn, where he married and raised six children Tom, Peter,
Bill, Sarah, John, and Kate. Education was extremely important in the Godfrey home, and Thomas Godfrey was
proud of the fact that his parents, his wife, and all six of his children were college graduates. Four of his
children have post graduate degrees, and to date, four of his nine grandchildren have earned Bachelors degrees.
According to his daughter, Sarah Cook, he "was always committed to the fact that our future needed
young people who strove to excel, who had a strong work ethic, and who achieved advanced degrees. To him,
education was the key that would open every door and would promote America's future."
During his life in Elkhorn, Thomas Godfrey was active in many civic organizations and was a former
treasurer of the State Bar of Wisconsin. He served as an alderman for eight years, and was a member of the
Kiwanis Club and the Masonic Lodge. He was an avid golfer and an incredible cook. He wrote and published two
cookbooks.
One of the highlights of Mr. Godfrey's career was his connection to and relationship with Kikkoman Foods,
Inc. Kikkoman Foods, Inc. located their first US plant in Walworth, Wisconsin, in 1973. Kikkoman Foods, which
has been making soy sauce for over 350 years, employed Mr. Godfrey as their general counsel. He was honored
that they would choose the Godfrey Law Firm to handle all of their legal matters. In 1993, he was elected as an
officer and director of the Kikkoman Foods, a position he held until his death. The Kikkoman company held Mr.
Godfrey in high esteem.
After his death in 1996, Kikkoman Foods honored his memory by establishing the Thomas G. Godfrey
Memorial Scholarship Fund.

1987Thomas Godfrey and Yuzaburo

Mogi who is now chairman and
president of Kikkoman Foods, Inc.

13

SUSAN M. DAVEY
Susan Davey was an active, caring member of the Elkhorn community for many years. She was a
member of St. John's Lutheran Church, member and past president of Elkhorn Rotary club, past
president of Elkhorn Chamber of Commerce, former member and past president of the EAHS
Scholarship Foundation, one of the founders of the Purple and Gold Fund, and a member of the Elkhorn
Booster Club. She worked and chaired several club projects and fund-raising events.
Susan Sell Davey was born on August 19, 1960, in Manitowoc, Wisconsin, and graduated
from Lincoln High School in 1978. She graduated from Lakeshore Technical College with a degree in
marketing in 1982. Susan married Darrin Davey, an Elkhorn Area High School graduate, on April 25,
1987. The Daveys raised two daughters, Lindsay and Lauren, who are also Elkhorn Area High School
graduates. Mrs. Davey was employed by State Long Distance Telephone Company from 1995 to 2007 as
the Director of Marketing. According to her family, Susan deeply enjoyed vacationing, volunteering,
and spending time with family and friends.
Susan touched countless lives in Elkhorn. With her generous spirit and untiring volunteerism,
she made a positive impact on this community that will be felt for many years to come. Susan's
scholarship was set up after her passing in 2007, according to her wishes. It has been funded by
generous donations from friends and family members.

Ive seen and met angels wearing the disguise of ordinary people living ordinary lives.

ROBERT AND MILDRED GETZEN

Robert and Mildred Getzen were married in Elkhorn on July 9, 1947. Bob was a member of the
Elkhorn High School graduating class of 1944. He served in the US Army from 1944 to 1946. Millie
graduated from Lake Geneva High School. They settled in Elkhorn, where Bob was employed as a
factory superintendent for the Getzen Co. Inc., a manufacturer of band instruments started by his
father in 1939. Robert founded the Allied Music Corp. in 1959 and the Allied Supply Corp. in 1969. At
the age of 65, he "semi-retired" but continued to serve as Chairman of the Board. Robert Getzen was
the co-founder of the National Association of Professional Band Instrument Repair Technicians. He
served on the Board of Directors of the Community Bank of Elkhorn and Bank One. He was active in
the Elkhorn Kiwanis club and was a past president. He was involved with the Boy Scouts of America
and also in his church, where he served as a bishop for five years. Millie was active in community
organizations in Elkhorn and at her church where she loved working with children. She served on many
church committees and participated in mission work with her husband. Robert and Mildred were the
parents of two children, grandparents of five, and great-grandparents of three.
Mr. and Mrs. Getzen set up and provided for a scholarship to be awarded each year to an
Elkhorn High School graduate who would be pursuing a college degree in instrumental music.
Preference is given to students studying band or instrumental performance, but vocal performance
may also be considered.
14

HARLAN AND FRAN LANEY

Harlan J. Laney married Frances Bowe on August 6, 1946, in Dousman, Wisconsin. They
moved to Elkhorn 20 years later, in 1966. They brought with them a kind, loving spirit and a
selfless, generous attitude. The Elkhorn community was richer for having had them in their
midst.
Mrs. Laney worked for the Elkhorn School District for 32 years. She was an
outstanding educator and she had a positive impact on students, both in and out of the
classroom. Mr. Laney was employed by Oak Industries in Elkhorn. He later worked as a
mechanic for Jones Bus Company, and then became the manager of the Safeline Bus Service
which transported Elkhorn children to and from school.
During their years in Elkhorn, the Laneys were very active in their church, the First
United Methodist Church. Students were so pleased when they were finally old enough to be a
part of the Laneys Sunday school class. Harlan and Fran taught for many years, imparting
knowledge and guiding their students. It is fitting that a scholarship in their names is awarded
to young people, since Harlan and Fran enriched so many young lives.
Mrs. Laney stated, "Family members honored Harlan and me with the gift of a
scholarship." It was set up and generously funded by their four children, Susan, Karen, Laurie,
and Jonathan and their families. Mrs. Laney further stated, "Harlan and I were always
interested in, involved in, supportive of and expected high educational standards from any
school our children attended."
The Laneys retired to Dousman some years ago, and Mr. Laney passed away in
2006. Fran continued to come back to Elkhorn each year to present the Laney scholarship
awards, accompanied by her daughter. Students, former students, parents and staff enjoyed
hearing Mrs. Laney's kind words and sage advice on Honors Night. Mrs. Laney passed away this
year, 2012, at the age of 88.

I was fortunate to get a scholarship when I went to Lehigh University and Princeton. Somebody
was kind enough to spend their money to educate people that they would never get to know.
Thats what I think philanthropy is all about.

Lee Iacocca

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HUGH AND MARIE SQUIRES

Hugh Squires was a successful Elkhorn business owner when he married Miss Marie Vanderbilt
on November 15, 1944. A former auto mechanic, Mr. Squires moved to the Lauderdale Lakes area in
1940 to open the Squires Boat and Motor Company. One of his earlier endeavors was repairing
Studebaker automobiles. When F. C. Wiswell opened the first Studebaker shop in southeastern
Wisconsin in 1910, Hugh Squires was in charge of the repair department.
Hugh was born February 27, 1888, in Elkhorn. Marie Vanderbilt Squires was born May 28, 1911,
in Chicago. She graduated from the University of Wisconsin with a degree in journalism, and worked
at Scott Foresman Publishing Company in Chicago before marrying Mr. Squires. Together they owned
and operated the Squires Boat and Motor Company until they retired in 1956.
Mr. Squires served as an Elkhorn alderman in the 1930's. He was a 55-year member of the
Elkhorn Masonic Lodge No. 77, and a member of the Royal Arch Masons R.A.M. Chapter 17. He and his
wife were both active in the Lauderdale Lakes Improvement Association.
Mr. Squires passed away in December of 1976. Marie Squires died on March 17, 1979. They
had no children. A scholarship foundation was set up to honor their memory in March of 1980.

Every action in our lives touches on some chord that will vibrate in eternity.
Edwin Hubbel Chapin

ROBERT HEISTAD
Robert "Bob" Heistad established a sizeable bequest to the Elkhorn Area High School
Scholarship Foundation before he passed away in 2005. He was an extremely frugal person and wished
to give a "hand up," as he would say, to young people who were pursuing additional education.
Robert was a generous, friendly man who worked as an Elkhorn mail carrier. Elkhorn families
enjoyed his kind spirit and friendly personality as he delivered their mail for more than 30 years. He
was born June 26, 1922, and grew up on a farm in Wittenburg, Wisconsin. After the family farm was
sold, he tried various jobs before settling in Elkhorn and becoming a US Postal employee. Bob loved to
work, and knew everyone on his route.
After retiring from the Postal Service, he continued serving the community as a school crossing
guard in Edgerton. Bob loved baseball and football, and was a Green Bay Packer season ticket holder.
He also cut, split and sold firewood. According to his wife, Darlene, every year at strawberry season,
Bob spent days picking berries. Arriving home every afternoon with strawberry stains on his hands,
knees and around his mouth, he would then distribute berries around town to friends, neighbors, and
special people on his mail route.
He established the Elkhorn scholarship with the sale of rental properties that he owned in
Elkhorn. He set up a similar scholarship for the Wittenburg School District where he had attended
elementary and high school. Bob was married and had one child, John.
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JAMIE SENDT
Jamie Sendt, son of James and Lynette Sendt, was a
graduate of the Elkhorn Area High School class of 1994. Other
family members include his wife, Jessica; sister and brother-in-law,
Andrew and Valerie Etzel, niece, Katelyn Golly, and grandparents,
Lyle and Shirley Schinke. In high school, he was active in band,
golf, FBLA and DECA.
Jamie was employed in the family business, Lyles TV and
Appliance, in Elkhorn. He was a dedicated member of the
Lauderdale-LaGrange Fire Department. A scholarship fund in his
honor was established in 2006 by the Fire Department and the
Sendt Family.
Beginning in the summer of 2005, the Lauderdale-LaGrange Fire
and Rescue Department has hosted a yearly Jamie Sendt Memorial
Golf Outing. Jamie's family and friends join together to honor his memory while they play
golf, share dinner, and participate in a raffle and silent auction.
Jamies sister, Valerie, tells us, Jamie was a lieutenant with the Lauderdale-La
Grange Fire Department and Rescue Squad, as well as an EMT (Emergency Medical
Technician), and he gave most of his adult life helping
others through his work on the fire department. What he
left behind for all of us to remember was his reputation
for loyalty and commitment for his family, friends and
community. Jamie was very proud to be the Lieutenant of
Engine 1420, also known as the The Pumper. He started
his career as a firefighter as most do - he was a probe,
but that never held him back from moving up to lieutenant
of his favorite truck. Jamie lived and breathed fire and
rescue; he never questioned whether or not to get out of
bed when that pager went off in the middle of night. It
was never too cold or too hot, he took his oath as a LLFD
fireman/EMT to heart, and nothing was going to hold him
back from saving his community from tragedy. He
volunteered on many occasions to help other departments
when they were short staffed. To him it wasnt just about
being a member of LLFD, it was about paying forward to
the community no matter who was in need of help.

Nobody made a greater mistake than he who did nothing because he could only do a little.

Edmund Burke
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PAUL AND KATHARINE SCHMIDT

Paul and Katherine Schmidt were both born in the
Chicago area in 1917, he in Park Ridge, Illinois, and she in
Chicago. Their paths crossed when they were students
at Lawrence University in Appleton, Wisconsin. The
Schmidts married and settled in Hinsdale, Illinois, where
they raised four children, Paul, Jr., Judy, Debbie, and
Bob.
Mr. Schmidt ran the Pitman Company of Chicago
from 1952 until his retirement in 1977. They enjoyed
summers at Lauderdale Lake, and upon retiring, moved to
rural Elkhorn.
Education was very important to the
Schmidts. They were particularly sympathetic to the
plight of young students who worked hard but lacked financial assistance. Throughout their lifetime, the
Schmidts gave generously to many organizations, including VIP Services in Elkhorn, Matheson Memorial Library,
Lawrence University and The Elkhorn Area School District. Occasionally, Mr. Schmidt dropped by the Elkhorn
Area School District business office, unannounced, with a check or stock certificate for the benefit of the
Elkhorn schools.
According to their granddaughter, Jenny, the Schmidts believed that high expectations
equaled achievement. "Be kind, polite, and generous," she said, would best sum up her grandparent's approach to
life. Paul and Katherine Schmidt set up their scholarship and personally funded it.

Education is the best provision for the journey to old age.

Aristotle

JACK AND ELIZABETH CODY

In 1988, at the age of 100, Jack Cody established a sizeable scholarship fund for the benefit of Elkhorn
Area High School graduates who were continuing their education. The fund, "The Elizabeth Cody Memorial
Scholarship," was established in loving memory of his wife of 63 years.
Jack was born in San Francisco on December 28, 1888. His wife, Elizabeth Thielen, was born in Chicago on
February 7, 1901. They married in Chicago, in 1924, and moved to Elkhorn in 1930.
Jack worked as a farmer and a carpenter, and was
well known in later years for his colorful storytelling of his
experiences in World War I and of his life and memories in
Elkhorn. He served in the US Army and was a member of
the American Legion Post 45 and VFW Post 6375. Before
he died, Jack Cody was confirmed to be the oldest living
World War I veteran in the state of Wisconsin and one of
the oldest remaining in the US. He passed away on March
25, 1996 at the age of 107.
Jack and Elizabeth Cody had one daughter, one son,
three granddaughters, and three great grandchildren. The
scholarship is now known as the "Jack and Elizabeth Cody
Memorial Scholarship."
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RICK WALTER
Rick Walter was born on June 22, 1963. The son of Don and Sandy
Walter, he grew up in Elkhorn with his one brother and two sisters,
and attended Elkhorn schools. He was a member of the Elkhorn High
School graduating class of 1981. While in high school, Rick was very
active in FFA. He held many offices and was top fruit salesman one
year. He was also a member of the state Junior Dairyman's
Association and was elected a state officer from District One.
After high school, Rick continued his education at Southwest
Wisconsin Technical College where he studied Agriculture-Mechanics.
He graduated in 1983 with his Associates Degree. While attending school in Fennimore,
Wisconsin, he was elected president of the Wisconsin Agrifuture Organization. Upon
returning to Elkhorn, he became involved with the Elkhorn FFA Alumni, serving as its president
in 1989.
Rick held several jobs in the agricultural field until finally settling in at CB & C
Implement Co. in Cuba City, Wisconsin. CB & C sells and services a large range of farm and
outdoor equipment including John Deere tractors and other utility vehicles.
Rick had a life-long love of tractors and was an avid tractor pull fan. He owned a
tractor which he repaired and modified for
competition in tractor pulls which he entered all
over the state of Wisconsin. His leisure time was
often spent helping others with tractor repair or
doing field work.
A scholarship fund in Rick Walter's name
was established in 1995 with funds donated by
family and friends. It continues to be funded by
the Elkhorn FFA Alumni and is offered each year
to a graduating senior who is planning on pursuing a
four-year degree in agriculture, agribusiness, or an
agricultural related field.

Dont ever dare to take your college as a matter of course because, like democracy and
freedom, many people youll never know have broken their hearts to get it for you.
Alice Miller

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NICHOLAS MARK VAN DYKE

Nick was born on March 27, 1983, to his parents, Charles (Chuck) and
Mary Van Dyke, at Lakeland Medical Center. He was the youngest of six
children, and had two brothers, Dan and Scott, and three sisters, Kyle, Erin and
Brooke. His love of cars, trucks, and anything that involved an engine began when
he discovered his first Matchbox car and continued for the rest of his life! Nick was able to
achieve a lifelong dream...to become the tallest male in his immediate family. At 63, he
towered over his sisters, mother, father and two older brothers. Tragically, Nick left this world
much too early, but he lives on in the many lives that have and will continue to benefit from the
donations of his soft tissue, eyes, skin and bones that were made to the Blood Center of
Wisconsin.
Nick graduated from Elkhorn Area High School in 2001. In middle school, he participated
in flag football, basketball and track; in high school, he was a member of the soccer and
basketball teams. Nick loved music and participated in choral music programs. After high
school, he attended one semester of college at Utah State University.
Nick embraced his fathers work ethic at an early age. He was hired as a part-time
cashier at Lockharts Service Station when he was 16 years old, and acquired the knowledge and
skills to become what he always wanted to be - an auto mechanic. Following his untimely death,
numerous stories have been shared with his family detailing random acts of kindness Nick
bestowed on people he knew only casually when he thought they needed his help.
Nick also secured a second job as a bartender and worked at several areas bars before he
started working at the Lauderdale Landing in 2010. Nicks amazing smile and infectious
personality quickly won the hearts of the customers who frequented the establishment.
Nicks primary focus in life always centered on his family:
his parents, siblings, and most importantly, his beloved nieces
and nephews. He had no children of his own, but many people
thought he did when Nick cornered them and started showing off
his most recent pictures of the newest niece or nephew or photos
of their milestone events. He became an uncle when he was 16
years old, and it was a role he cherished.
In Nicks memory, the Lauderdale Landing established a
scholarship that will be awarded to a graduating senior who has
chosen to enter the automotive field, and will annually be hosting The Nick Van Dyke Memorial
Shamrock Shuffle to fund the scholarship. The graduating senior selected for this award will,
hopefully, share Nicks passion for a field of study that sparked his interest as a young child and
blossomed into a career he loved and was extremely proud to claim as his own!

Thousands of candles can be lighted from a single candle, and the life of the candle will not be shortened.
Happiness never decreases by being shared.
Buddha

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KEVIN WALDECK
Kevin Waldeck was a career educator who regarded his time at the Alternative High School as
the highlight of his career. He cared deeply about his students and helped them to succeed with
courage and grace.
Kevin was born in Peoria, Illinois, on June 13, 1944. He received his Bachelor of Arts from
Marquette University, and his Master's degree from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater.
He taught at Badger High School in Lake Geneva for 27 years, where he was the chairman of the
social studies department. He taught American history, humanities, law, world history and
environmental education. After leaving Badger, Mr. Waldeck was the Director of Secular
Education at the Torah Academy in Milwaukee.
Kevin was greatly committed to the city of Lake Geneva. He served on the planning commission
and as an alderman for the first ward on the Lake Geneva City Council. He helped develop the
city's master plan and zoning code, and was instrumental in improvements made in Library Park, as
well as the building of the Beach House and Lake Geneva City Hall. He was a past director of the
Committee to Save Geneva Lake. He was passionate about his work on historic and environmental
preservation.
Mr. Waldeck's wife, Kathy, his children, Sarah and Dalton, his family, friends and students
appreciated his kindness, as well as the rare insight and wit with which he regarded the world and
his place in it. A scholarship fund was set up in his honor. Money is awarded each year
to Alternative High School graduates who are pursuing additional education. It is funded in part
by the annual Freeze For Life event held each winter in Lake Geneva. Students and friends come
to Geneva Lake for traditional watersports such as tubing, waterskiing and wake boarding in
December. A full day of activities takes place on the lakefront and in the water. The money
raised support cancer research and scholarships for the Alternative High School graduates, all in
honor of Kevin Waldeck.

Freeze For Life

You must be the change you wish to see in the world.

Mahatma Ghandi

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DR. EDMUND SORENSON

Dr. Edmund Sorenson was a prominent physician who practiced

medicine in Elkhorn for 56 years. He was a beloved member of the
community, and was closely tied to the people and events of Elkhorn for
almost six decades. He set up and funded a generous scholarship which is
awarded each year to a graduating senior.
Edmund D. Sorenson was born September 10, 1895, in Beaumont
Corners, to Soren C. Sorenson and Christina Hanson Sorenson, who had emigrated from Denmark. He
graduated from Union Grove High School in Kenosha County, and served in France during World War I
as a member of the Ambulance Corps. After the war, he returned home and earned his medical degree
from Marquette University Medical School.
In 1923, Dr. Edmund Sorenson moved to Elkhorn, Wisconsin, where he joined the medical
practice of Dr. E.T. Ridgeway. On August 28, 1924, Dr. Sorenson married Mildred Henry, a teacher
who had taught in Beaumont and Union Grove. They married in Viroqua and made their home in
Elkhorn, where they became involved in various civic, church, and community activities. The Sorensons
were parents of three sons, Edmund, Robert, and Joseph, all of whom graduated from Elkhorn High
School.
Dr. Sorenson was a general practitioner who was known as "Elkhorn's Baby Doctor." Between
the years of 1924-1959, he delivered almost 3,500 babies. He frequently made house calls, and he
held evening office hours for patients who worked during the day. He stopped delivering babies in
1959, but continued to actively see patients until 1978 when he went into "semi-retirement" at the age
of 83. He then mostly kept up with his geriatric patients whom he had cared for most of their lives.
Dr. Sorenson was a member of the first elected Elkhorn School Board. The election took place
in 1936. Dr. Sorenson continued to serve for the next 25 years, most of those years as the President
of the Board. He was a member and past president of both the Wisconsin Medical Society and the
Walworth County Medical Society. He was a past president of the Lakeland Hospital Medical Staff
and served as the Medical Advisor to the Walworth County Selective Service Board. Dr. Sorenson was
very active in community affairs including the Masonic Lodge, where he was a 50-year member, The
Royal Arch Masons, The Elkhorn Blue Lodge, the Madison Consistory, and Zor Shrine. He was honored
by the Elkhorn Lions Club, of which he was a member, in 1973 with the Dan Kelliher Distinguished
Service Award. Lakeland Hospital Medical Staff and the Walworth County Board of Supervisors
honored him in 1978 at a special banquet for his devotion to the community.
The week after his death, in 1982, Frank Eames, of The Elkhorn Independent wrote, "Doc was
woven into the community fabric of the area in a manner reserved for only a few very special
people.......Dr. E D Sorenson definitely left his mark on Elkhorn and to paraphrase a familiar, old
expression, the community is a better place because he decided to make his home here back in 1924."

The true meaning of life is to plant trees,

under whose shade you do not expect to sit.

Nelson Henderson
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23

We invite you to send us additional stories and photos for our

"work in progress." Please send information to:
EAHS Scholarship Foundation, Inc.
3 North Jackson
Elkhorn, WI 53121
or
Visit our website at:
www.elkhorn.k12.wi.us/STAFFWEB/scholarship_foundation/index.html
A questionnaire is available for downloading.
There is also a link to email the foundation.

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