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100

Years 100 Lives MILWAUKEE CATHOLIC HOME 1915 - 2015

100

Years 100 Lives MILWAUKEE CATHOLIC HOME 1915 - 2015

Published on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of Milwaukee Catholic Home by Second Story Creative October 1, 2015

CONTENTS iii

FORWARD

PROLOGUE 1911-1915

CHAPTER 1 1916-1925

CHAPTER 2 1926-1939

CHAPTER 3 1940-1979

CHAPTER 4 1980-1999

CHAPTER 5 2000’s

CONGRATULATIONS AND BLESSING

FORWARD

ear Friends, For 100 years, Milwaukee Catholic Home has shaped the lives of far more people than the title of this commemorative book suggests. An icon in the Catholic community and revered throughout Milwaukee, Milwaukee Catholic Home is so much for so many. For some, it is a picturesque building on the historic East Side. For some, it is a partner in outreach and leadership. For some, it is a champion of care and compassion for the elderly. For some, it is a spiritually-enriching community of faith. For some, it is simply, beautifully, ‘home.’ During my treasured time as archbishop of Milwaukee, I came to know Milwaukee Catholic Home as all of those things and more. I hope within the pages of this book, we may all come to appreciate not only the history and the people of Milwaukee Catholic Home, but the powerful contributions it has yet to make. Congratulations to the residents, staff, benefactors and volunteers of Milwaukee Catholic Home, past, present and future! God’s blessings,

Timothy Michael Cardinal Dolan Archbishop of New York

Timothy Cardinal Dolan

Former Archbishop of Milwaukee (2002-2009)

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100

Years 100 Lives

PROLOGUE

1911-1915

n the morning of March 21, 1911, Anna Marie Hackett gathered with six friends at her home on Prospect Avenue in Milwaukee. The group, aquaintences from their membership in the Marquette Women’s League, talked excitedly over coffee and refreshments. Mrs. Hackett posed a question: as her own family and friends grew older, what sort of future did they have to look forward to? Who would be responsible for their care? Who, in fact, should be responsible for their care? The women were thinking of a place that was not institution or clinical. They were thinking of a place that was home. Energized and motivated, they made to-do lists and timelines and, thanks to their established positions in the city, secured a meeting with Archbishop Sebastian Messmer. The group met just 10 days later, and the archbishop promised his support. A weekday coffee gathering had turned into the first meeting of the founders of Milwaukee Catholic Home.

For two years, meetings were held, notes were taken, plans were drawn up, and the beginnings of a home were constructed, brick by brick, person by person. A charter was granted in June of 1913, and the first official meeting of Milwaukee Catholic Home for the Aged Corporation was held right back where it began, at the home of Anna Marie Hackett. The next year saw a flurry of continued activity as an advisory committee was appointed. Milwaukee Catholic Home for the Aged was officially established in 1915. On July 26, 1915, a special meeting of the Board of Directors was called to make the announcement: the Goodrich family home on Astor Street in Milwaukee had been acquired as a gift from an anonymous benefactor. With 20 rooms, six bathrooms and central electrical heating, the home was perfectly suited for Milwaukee Catholic Home. Archbishop Messmer, true to his word, celebrated Mass at the grand opening of Milwaukee Catholic Home for the Aged Friday, October 1, 1915.

Founding board members (left to right): Mrs. Charles Morris, Mrs. Loyal Durand, Mrs. William Conan and Mrs. James Hackett.

1 Anna Marie Hackett FOUNDER

One of the founders of Milwaukee Catholic Home (then called Milwaukee Catholic Home for the Aged), Anna Marie Hackett was re-elected as president of the Board of Directors for 27 years in a row. As wife of a popular physician, Dr. James Hackett, Anna Marie used her influence to lead multiple Catholic organizations in Milwaukee. She was one of just a few lay Catholics in the area to be decorated by the pope – in 1925, Pope Pius XI conferred on her the cross “Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice,” in recognition of her charity work.

1911

Marquette Women’s League members request Archbishop Messmer’s permission to plan residence for aging Milwaukeeans.

MRS. HACKETT GOES TO WASHINGTON Anna Marie Hackett frequently represented Milwaukee on the national Catholic stage by attending the National Council of Catholic Women Convention in Washington, D.C. She was a member of the local Milwaukee Archdiocesan Council of Catholic Women.

1913 Milwaukee Catholic Home for the Aged granted charter. By-laws are written and approved. Anna Marie Hackett serves as first president.

2 Archbishop Sebastian Messmer ARCHBISHOP OF MILWAUKEE, 1903-1930

Collaborative and supportive of Milwaukee Catholic Home, Archbishop Messmer served on the board and blessed the home at its official opening.

Archbishop Messmer corresponds frequently with the committee of the Marquette Women’s League and the “Home for the Aged” about the official opening of Milwaukee Catholic Home.

Without Anna Cudahy, Milwaukee Catholic Home would not exist – literally! She donated a private home on Astor Street in Milwaukee to be used as the first Catholic Home residence. Anna and her husband – Patrick Cudahy, founder of Cudahy Packing Co. – were widely-known philanthropists. Five years after her friend and fellow community leader Anna Marie Hackett, Anna received the papal cross for distinguished service to the Catholic Church. When Anna passed away, Milwaukee Catholic Home Board of Directors held their regular weekly meeting, but immediately adjourned out of respect for one of their most enthusiastic founders.

Anna Cudahy FOUNDER

The first Milwaukee Catholic Home for the Aged.

1915 Milwaukee Catholic Home for the Aged officially opens its doors to 12 residents.

Milwaukee Catholic Home residents are initially required to pay a $1,000 entry fee. Most of the operational costs are funded by private donation. Fundraisers, card parties, bazaars and Christmas sales help raise money and awareness for the Catholic Home.

Board meeting notes.

Mary Weiman RESIDENT

Mary McNulty left her family’s farm to begin her own dressmaking shop in Milwaukee, appropriately titled, “McNulty’s.” Mary eventually married Anthony Weiman and continued to make a name for herself making bridal dresses and ball gowns. At one time she employed as many as twenty women, one of whom was Anne Phair, pictured at left with Mary.

Sigmund Kleiser RESIDENT

A pioneer resident of the Milwaukee Catholic Home, Sigmund at different times in his life worked as a coachman for Byron Kilbourn and served as a volunteer fireman. In 1869, his cabbage took home the first place prize at the Wisconsin State Fair!

In 1915, a bakery delivers supplies to the Catholic Home daily. Freshly-baked bread is 2 1/2 cents each day. Milk is five cents per quart.

Quilting bees and dance performances entertain residents.

THE ‘CATHOLIC’ IN MILWAUKEE CATHOLIC HOME The Mass has been an integral part of Milwaukee Catholic Home from the beginning. Founders emphasized the importance of their faith in daily life. For many years, only Catholic residents were admitted. This spiritual component had great impact on the greater community. One particular example: the first altar boy at Milwaukee Catholic Home, Eustace Brennan, went on to become a priest.

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Years 100 Lives

CHAPTER ONE

1916-1925

esidents, staff and board members of the new Milwaukee Catholic Home settled in to life on Astor Street. The home was an impressive place for its time, with a sizable lot, six bedrooms, electric lighting and central heating (at a cost of $323 per year). Friends of the home donated money as well as furniture and other decorations to make the residents’ surroundings comfortable. As one visitor put it, “Not anywhere is there the slightest indication of institutional atmosphere...From the moment one mounts the steps...one is enfolded in the atmosphere of homelikeness and quiet elegance.” It was the founders’ goal all along. As with the running of any home, there was always something to be done. A matron was hired for $60 per month, as was a cook. Weekly meetings with the 27-person Board of Directors (all lay women) oversaw the home’s management and finances. Arrangements were made with food services and funeral homes alike to tend to all aspects of the residents’ care.

Milwaukee Catholic Home continued to grow as word spread and demand increased. In 1920, 24 residents, three servants and three boarders lived at the home on Astor Street. A chaplain was appointed to serve at Milwaukee Catholic Home by Archbishop Messmer in August of 1921. The chaplain’s duties were to say weekly Mass and hear confessions, and support the spiritual lives of residents. In January 1925, the Milwaukee Catholic Home community received devastating news. Board President Anna Marie Hackett received official notice from the City of Milwaukee: the property on Astor Street was being reclaimed by the city for the expansion of Juneau Park. In September 1925, a hearing confirmed that the city would purchase 544 Astor Street for its appraised value of $40,000. What did all of this mean? Milwaukee Catholic Home needed to find a new home.

1916

Friends of Milwauke Catholic Home support the organization by furnishing individual rooms in memory of deceased loved ones.

6 and 7 Thomas and Janet Desmond BENEFACTORs AND RESIDENT

A friend to Milwaukee Catholic Home from the beginning, Thomas Desmond was a graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and founder of The Catholic School Journal. Thomas and his wife, Janet, lived in a historic mansion on Lake Drive. Later, Janet became a resident of Milwaukee Catholic Home. The story goes that Mrs. Desmond insisted upon having a kitchen in her residence, even though at the time no apartments had private kitchens and Mrs. Desmond herself did not cook. She simply believed, “It’s not a home if there is no kitchen!” A kitchen was installed, and she never set foot in it. The Desmond family has been part of Milwaukee Catholic Home’s history ever since. Thomas and Janet’s grand-niece, Sr. Janet Desmond, BVM, is a volunteer to this day.

9 Frances Starkey RESIDENT

A retired Milwaukee Public School teacher, Frances Starkey was the first resident to pass away at Milwaukee Catholic Home in 1917.

Ellen Lynch RESIDENT

Born in Ireland in 1832, Ellen Lynch was a wellknown writer and historian. She founded the Rosary Reading Circle at the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist in Milwaukee. As a child, she played ‘tag’ on the cathedral’s construction site!

Mary Foran RESIDENT

An outdoor garden party for residents includes bingo and card games for residents and visiting family members.

Early resident Mary Foran taught at the 4th Street School in Milwaukee, today known as the Golda Meir School, for 41 years. A Third Order Franciscan, Mary taught students over the years who went on to become some of Milwaukee’s most recognizable names: Joseph Uihlein, son of August Uihlein; William Schuchandt, local architect; and Walter Berger, a manufacturer.

REQUIREMENTS FOR ADMISSION In the early years, Milwaukee Catholic Home residents, or “members,” as they were often called, met the following admissions requirements: • Must be at least 75 years old • Must have lived in Wisconsin the two years preceding admission • Must pay minimum fee of $1,000 • Must convey any property to the organization.

1920

24 residents, three servants and three boarders live at Milwaukee Catholic Home.

Elizabeth Mellon RESIDENT

An orchestra plays for women of Milwaukee Catholic Home.

Early residents of Milwaukee Catholic Home depended on Elizabeth Mellon for their vegetables as well as beautiful floral arrangements. Mrs. Mellon was the Catholic Home’s unofficial gardener and worked single-handedly to maintain the beautiful and functional space.

A list of Milwaukee Catholic Home residents, 1921.

1921

A flu epidemic hits Milwauke Catholic Home for two months, cancelling all meetings and “extra” activities for residents and board members.

Matthew Lister RESIDENT

Matthew Lister was known around Milwaukee Catholic Home for two things: First, that his cousin invented Listerine; and second, that Matthew himself played Santa Claus at Gimbel’s department store in Milwaukee.

A resident sets a place at tea for George Washington in honor of his birthday.

13 Katerina McKee RESIDENT

Katerina McKee lived at Milwaukee Catholic Home in the 1920s, but almost never went by her given name. Instead, her cheery disposition and ever-present smile gave her the nickname: “the Sunshine Lady.”

Mary Sheridan RESIDENT

Wife of a prominent Milwaukee judge and mother of a Jesuit priest, Mary Sheridan was a known community leader in her time. She was among the first group of directors of Milwaukee Catholic Home, and also was active in the Marquette Women’s League, Milwaukee Archdiocese Council of Catholic Women and the Catholic Foresters women’s order. Mary was a parishioner at St. Robert Parish in Shorewood.

Milwaukee Catholic Home residents and staff gather for a group photo in the dining room.

1925

The City of Milwaukee reclaims Milwaukee Catholic Home’s Astor Street property for the expansion of Juneau Park. In celebration of their 25th wedding anniversary, Milwaukee Catholic Home founder Anna Marie Hackett and her husband, James, take a Mediterranean cruise. The trip makes newspaper headlines: the Hacketts were considered society leaders and Mrs. Hackett had once again been recently named president of Milwaukee Catholic Home.

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Years 100 Lives

CHAPTER TWO

1926-1939

new Milwaukee Catholic Home building ushered in a new era of purpose, focus and energy for residents and board members alike. After selling the Astor Street building to the City of Milwaukee for $40,000 at the end of 1925, the hunt was on for the perfect real estate in 1926. Many original founders still served on the Board of Directors and oversaw the search. The founders kept location, function and finances in mind. The perfect match came in the form of the former Milwaukee Infants Hospital on Bradford Avenue. The sale of the hospital included an adjacent home at 519 Prospect Avenue. Milwaukee Catholic Home purchased both properties for $70,000 on July 6, 1926. The end of 1926 saw residents move to their new, larger facilities, and the capacity of Milwaukee Catholic Home grew to 40 residents. Board members pitched in by donating funds to facilitate the move. Archbishop

Messmer blessed the new building and celebrated Mass on site in 1927. The turn of the decade meant an important anniversary for Milwaukee Catholic Home was approaching: 1935 brought a flurry of dinners, Masses and celebrations to honor the Home’s 20th anniversary. Residents and board members continued to make valuable, memorable contributions not only to the Home, but to the greater Milwaukee community. Life at Milwaukee Catholic Home was active, spiritual and upbeat. The new Bradford Avenue building perfectly suited the residents’ emotional and health needs, giving all members ample space for work and play. As the decade drew to a close, the death of founder Anna Marie Hackett in 1937 meant that an entire community was in mourning. Mrs. Hackett had served as president of the board since the Catholic Home’s beginnings. A new board president was elected to take the reigns: Milwaukee Archbishop Samuel Stritch.

1926

Milwauke Catholic Home moves to the former Milwaukee Infants Hospital on Bradford Avenue. Capacity increases to accomodate 40 residents. Pat Costello RESIDENT

Irishman Pat Costello was a favorite bartender among businessmen and politicians. Said Judge John Gregory, “The name of Pat Costello is linked with the days of fine old living in Milwaukee.”

1927

Archbishop Messmer blesses the new home.

A child dancer entertains residents. Pioneer resident of Milwaukee Catholic Home Virginia Fowler did all of her own sewing and mending until she passed away at the age of 95. She was a proud proponent of women’s equality, and praised so-called “modern girls” for speaking their minds. A fundraising campaign brochure, 1926.

Virginia Fowler RESIDENT

Christmas greetings from Milwaukee Catholic Home residents to their loved ones.

Irene Young RESIDENT

During World War II, Irene Young founded a company that made bandages for wounded soldiers.

19 and 20 Mr. and Mrs. Paul Hoppe RESIDENTS

The Hoppes celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in 1933 at Milwaukee Catholic Home. Their story was featured in the Wisconsin News, where the couple was interviewed about how to have a long and happy marriage. “Marriage is more than a mere ceremony. It’s friendship and companionship as well,” they told the paper. Mr. Hoppe was a mechanical engineer born in Germany. Mrs. Hoppe was from New York and moved to Milwaukee with her husband.

The student forestry club at a local high school donated a Christmas tree to Milwaukee Catholic Home.

Maxine Gilboy RESIDENT

In the 1920’s and 1930’s, Maxine Gilboy accompanied the young Judy Garland on the piano during concert and radio performances. As a resident, she became a favorite performer at Milwaukee Catholic Home.

Celia Timlin RESIDENT

Widow of Supreme Court Justice William Timlin and mother of Court Commissioner William Timlin, Celia Timlin was a member of the early Milwaukee Catholic Home Board of Directors.

22 Fr. Bill O’Connor CHAPLAIN

Fr. Bill O’Connor, famous for his wit and golf game, served for 10 years as chaplain of Milwaukee Catholic Home while simultaneously teaching philosophy at St. Francis de Sales Seminary in Milwaukee. He had spent time as a military chaplain in Europe during WWII. Years later, Fr. Bill would be named bishop of the Diocese of Superior, Wisconsin, and, eventually, the Diocese of Madison.

The chaplain was assisted by visiting priests, who said Mass, heard confessions and distributed Communion to residents.

1935

Milwaukee Catholic Home celebrates its 20th anniversary.

Residents play harmonica and celebrate the feast day of St. Anne, patron of Milwaukee Catholic Home.

Mrs. E. L. Hanley BOARD MEMBER

Board member Mrs. E. L. Hanley often hosted on-site events for visitors and potential donors to the home. Handiwork was displayed and sold, proceeds going toward future improvements to the chapel and occupational therapy department. Mrs. Hanley headed the push for a new wing built between the Bradford Avenue building and the Prospect Avenue building, adding 20 rooms to the total complex.

1937

Anne Hooley Resident

Milwaukee Catholic Home founder and president Anna Marie Hackett dies. Archbishop Samuel Stritch is elected to the Board as president.

Louise Cattoi RESIDENT

When Eleanor Roosevelt visited Milwaukee in the 1930s, reporter Louise Cattoi fought for the story byline...and won. She was the first female reporter and went on to become the first female editor for The Milwaukee Journal.

Anne Hooley, president of the National Council of Catholic Women and Milwaukee native, was honored to meet First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt at the 14th annual convention of the council in Washington, D.C. Mrs. Roosevelt addressed the gathering on “Needs of Organization of the Community for Leisure Time.” After Anne resigned as president of the organization, she went on to be national chairman of the group’s Youth Committee, and was awarded the Immaculata Medal for distinguished social service.

Archbishop Samuel Stritch

ARCHBISHOP OF MILWAUKEE, 1930-1940

A letter from Eleanor Roosevelt to Anna Marie Hackett, 1936.

Archbishop Stritch served as president of the Board of Directors of Milwaukee Catholic Home from 1937 until 1939, when he was transferred to Chicago. He was made a cardinal in 1946. Stritch was a strong proponent of the Catholic Action movement sanctioned by Pope Pius XI.

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Years 100 Lives

CHAPTER THREE

1940-1979

sweeping era of renovation, restoration and rebuilding was upon Milwaukee Catholic Home. Life for residents carried on, with birthday parties and community activities, luncheons and fundraisers. Behind the scenes, board members and other influencers were making prayerful decisions for the future. Minor improvements were made throughout the 1940’s, making way for the major changes of the early 1950’s. Former board member Elise John passed away in 1952, and her death served to only continue her life of service and generosity. Mrs. John left the bulk of her estate in a trust to Milwaukee Catholic Home. The trust would be payable in 20 years. This extraordinary gift was a source of hope, enthusiasm and encouragement for large-scale future planning. Mrs. John’s gift was the first of several financial gains during this time. Most notably, in 1965, the Anna Madden Cudahy Endowment was established with a

$200,000 gift from the Patrick and Anna M. Cudahy Foundation.These funds were used as a kick-off to a campaign to build a brand new Milwaukee Catholic Home. The building campaign was launched in 1971, and in October, ground was broken for the present-day building at 2462 N. Prospect Avenue. The new building was stunning and expansive, with 105 apartments and a 44-bed health center, not to mention a chapel and recreation space for residents. The addition was so well received, and Milwaukee Catholic Home was in such demand, that just two years later, ground was broken on the next phase of the full-scale project: a south wing addition to the new Prospect Avenue building, increasing the number of apartments by 54 for a total of 159. More than 150 apartments meant that Milwaukee Catholic Home was making strides for its residents, following its mission to offer a comfortable home for the older adults of the area.

Capt. George J. Bennett

Residents make quilts and other gifts for a Christmastime “needlework sale” to support renovations to the home.

RESIDENT

Captain of steamer ships for Michigan’s N. & B. Mills vessel company in the early 1900s, Bennett was a resident of MCH who shared harrowing tales of survival at sea with fellow residents.

1940s Milwaukee Catholic Home undergoes a makeover and plans are approved to build an addition to the existing property. Resident capacity and necessary improvements to fire escapes and porches are made.

The first resident to celebrate their 100th birthday at Milwaukee Catholic Home was Margaret O’Grady, in 1942. Born in Ireland in 1842, Margaret worked making stovepipe hats on the East Coast before coming to Milwaukee in 1867.

28 Mary Whelan

STAFF AND RESIDENT Superintendent of MCH for 26 years, Mary retired in 1951 and later lived at MCH as a resident.

Margaret O’Grady RESIDENT

Group birthday parties are a tradition at MCH.

Kamil escaped Nazi Poland in the 1940’s and went on to translate for Pope John Paul II during his trip to the United States. They became good friends.

Kamil Dziewanowski RESIDENT

Residents support the war effort by purchasing hand-made dolls dressed in military garb.

31 In the 1940s and 1950s, Msgr. Harold Prudell served as a chaplain/colonel for the United States Military. He became chaplain of Milwaukee Catholic Home in the 1980’s. In this photo, Msgr. Prudell hears a soldier’s confession on the front lines of Korea - June 23, 1951.

Adella Carpenter RESIDENT

Milwaukee Catholic Home resident Adella Carpenter worked as a cook in World War II.

Photo courtesy of the U.S. Army Chaplain Museum.

1952 32

Msgr. Harold Prudell CHAPLAIN

Mrs. Elise John, a former director, passes away. She leaves her estate in a trust, payable to Milwaukee Catholic Home, to be acquired 20 years after her death.

Elise John

DONOR AND BOARD MEMBER A board member of MCH, Elise was the daughter of Miller Brewing Company founder Frederick Miller. In 1938, she became president of Miller. She is the only woman to have ever run a major brewery.

33 and 34 Joseph and Patricia Frinzi RESIDENTS

Joseph purchased Milwaukee’s famous Frinzi’s Meat Market from his father in 1956, and he and his wife continued to run the business until he retired in 1989.

Dr. Liebman started his medical practice after he served in the U.S. Navy Medical Corps in WWII. He taught at the UW Madison School of Medicine and the Medical College of Wisconsin until he was in his 80’s. He authored several novels and poetry collections.

Dr. Albert Liebman RESIDENT

37 and 38 Governor Patrick and Jean Lucey RESIDENTS

Governor Patrick Lucey’s political career took off during the 1960 presidential campaign. As the Democratic Party’s state chairman, he helped secure President John F. Kennedy’s win. He was a trusted aide of Bobby Kennedy, and was elected governor of Wisconsin in 1970. In 1977, he resigned as governor and served as ambassador to Mexico during the presidency of Jimmy Carter. He and his wife, Jean, were residents of Milwaukee Catholic Home. At right, he celebrates his 95th birthday here with his granddaughter.

Milwaukee Archbishop William Cousins speaks at a Milwaukee Catholic Home anniversary celebration dinner.

1964 Membership fee structure adopted, replacing the “Life Care” concept. This increased Milwaukee Catholic Home’s financial stability and gave residents greater control of their own finances. 22

Resident John Savage made his career at Miller Brewing Company. After graduating from Marquette University Law School, he started as secretary of the company, and went on to serve as General Counsel and, eventually, Vice President.

John Savage RESIDENT

Milwaukee Catholic Home dining room and kitchen staff, 1960s.

At a 1968 meeting, a resident lists suggestions for improvements to MCH, including, “music room with Hi-Fi” and “chaplain quarters.”

Pictured with her famous, beloved sewing machine, Mrs. Elizabeth Hochstein celebrated her 100th birthday at MCH’s annual tea party.

Elizabeth Hochstein RESIDENT

A newly-elected board hosts a tea party at the Milwaukee Catholic Home.

1965

A $200,000 gift from the Patrick and Anna M. Cudahy Fund established the Anna Madden Cudahy Endowment.

MCH residents are featured in the Milwaukee Sentinel paper as the world tuned in to their televisions to watch the Apollo 11 flight in July of 1969.

Gertrude Cobeen RESIDENT

Charles Cobeen was a great benefactor to Marquette University. A dormitory was named after him. Here his wife, Gertrude, who went on to live at Milwaukee Catholic Home, and three daughters stand with Marquette President, John P. Raynor, S.J., at a ceremony honoring Cobeen. Bottom right, Gertrude (right) poses with Archbishop Cousins at the Catholic Home.

40 23

Jean was a journalism trailblazer: in 1972, she became the first woman to work as an editorial writer for the Milwaukee Journal. She was also the first female president of the local Sigma Delta Chi, the Society for Professional Journalists. In 1979, she was elected as the first female president of the national society.

Jean Otto RESIDENT

1973

A new Milwaukee Catholic Home opens at 2462 N. Prospect Avenue with 105 apartments and a 44-bed Health Center.

An architect’s sketch of the dining room in the new 2462 building (top), and the finished result (right).

From Christmas parties to summer dance contests, residents at Milwaukee Catholic Home always have reason to celebrate!

1971-72 A $2 million dollar bequest from the estate of former board member Elise John leads the campaign for a new Milwaukee Catholic Home facility. The groundbreaking takes place in October 1971.

Carolyn Dineen

PRESIDENT AND DIRECTOR Carolyn Dineen served as director and president of Milwaukee Catholic Home in the 1970s while simultaneously working as director of a comprehensive health planning agency of Southeastern Wisconsin. She was appointed by the governor to the state’s health policy council. Her husband was the chairman and president of Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance.

Members of the Board of Directors greet Archbishop Cousins at the dedication of the new building after the archbishop celebrates Mass in the new chapel.

The grand opening celebration welcomes residents and family members to tour the new facility, which includes a beauty salon, administrative offices and a game lounge for residents.

David and Kathleen Kelling RESIDENTS

Messmer High School sweethearts, David and Kathleen married and spent 30 years working for the CIA in the Middle East and Europe. They were educated together, worked together and eventually lived together at Milwaukee Catholic Home. They even passed away together–Kathleen died just one month after David.

1976

46 and 47

A building project adds a south wing, increasing the number of apartments by 54 for a total of 159. Lawrence and Anne Donovan RESIDENTS

Active in the arts, Anne was the first woman on the Board of Directors for the Milwaukee Art Museum. Together, Lawrence and Anne founded the Milwaukee Chamber Quartet.

44 and 45

A 1977 Catholic Herald newspaper ad for Milwaukee Catholic Home.

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Years 100 Lives

CHAPTER FOUR

1980-1999

he 1980’s was a time of celebration as the Milwaukee Catholic Home family looked with gratitude back at decades of success, growth and vision, and looked forward with anticipation to the Catholic Home’s 75th birthday.

The 75th anniversary celebration in 1988 welcomed residents, family members, staff and the general public to the Catholic Home. Congratulations came in from around the world, as politicians, business and religious leaders sought to somehow be part of the party.

Residents’ care and lifestyle remained the number one priority. Activities such as dance, art and computer classes filled the days, as well as time to attend to necessary health needs. The Chapel’s upstairs balcony saw a new art installation as a local artist was commissioned to create modern Stations of the Cross.

Additional renovations were made in the late 1980s and early 1990s before another major project began: a state-of-the-art health center with specialized dementia, sub-acute and rehabilitation areas, and intergenerational day programs. After a successful capital campaign, Milwaukee Catholic Home officially broke ground to build a dedicated Health and Rehabilitation Center in 1996.

In 1987, just one year before the Diamond Anniversary celebration, board members led the charge for yet another large-scale renovation to Milwaukee Catholic Home. Twenty-four new residential apartments were added to the west wing, and updates were made in the kitchen, dining room and lobby.

The Health and Rehabilitation Center opened at 2330 N. Prospect Avenue in Milwaukee in 1997. The new Health Center was connected by underground tunnel to a parking garage, the Residence and St. Mary’s Hospital, making a fully-functional, convenient campus for residents.

An MCH newsletter features a historical overview surrounding the 70th anniversary.

Elizabeth Clarke RESIDENT

MCH resident Elizabeth Clarke was the granddaughter of Solomon Juneau, the founder of the city of Milwaukee.

1985 In 1985, Virginia created 14 modern illustrations of the Stations of the Cross, inspired by the new Way of the Cross writted by Pope John Paul II when he was Karol Wojtyla. The collection was displayed in the chapel balcony.

Virginia Broderick ARTIST

The Milwaukee Catholic Home Foundation is established to raise and manage funds intended to benefit Milwaukee Catholic Home.

50 Josephine Lyons RESIDENT

1987

Another expansion to Milwaukee Catholic Home adds 24 new apartments to the west wing, and updates the dining room, lobby and kitchen. 28

In her younger years, Josephine Lyons owned a women’s hat shop in Milwaukee, and personally designed and made many of the hats she sold. When she moved to MCH, she sewed for residents and made banners for the chapel.

A resident of MCH celebrates the 75th anniversary with her family.

1988

Milwaukee Catholic Home celebrates its 75th anniversary with a Mass and open house.

Hilda was affectionately known as “The Hat Lady” at Milwaukee Catholic Home. She had a very large collection of hats, many of which were created by fellow resident Josephine Lyons.

Hilda Heald RESIDENT

Kenneth Burgess RESIDENT

Kenneth founded a data processing company, ADD Inc., a division of Journal Communications. Through his company, he worked closely with the Archdiocese of Milwaukee and eventually served as financial administrator there. He volunteered his time working with a company that brought solar ovens to third world countries. Kenneth remained active in his work even when he moved in to MCH – he had an office set up in his apartment.

The MCH 75th anniversary planning committee keeps a list of attendees and registrants for the celebration.

51 and 52 Pauline and her husband Ken, a permanent deacon for the Archdiocese of Milwaukee, sent their 14 children to Messmer Catholic Schools in Milwaukee. So when the announcement of a possible closure came in 1984,they were pioneer members of the “Save Messmer” committee. The movement was a success.

Ken and Pauline Vernon RESIDENTS

Letters of congratulations from the mayor, the governor, and the Holy Father arrive for the 75th anniversary.

Residents appreciate amenities like computer classes that Milwaukee Catholic Home offers residents.

RESIDENT

At her 100th birthday party, Clara gave roses to every resident at Milwaukee Catholic Home.

1989 Anna Torcivia RESIDENT

Clara Bendel

Renovations to the health center increase capacity from 44 to 56. Non-Milwaukee Catholic Home residents are admitted to the Health Center for the first time.

Red Andrews

RESIDENT

Anna was a daughter of the Balistreri family, Milwaukee’s famous restauranteurs. Anna had her own claim to fame as one of the first women to graduate from Marquette University’s School of Teaching (after she went against her father’s wishes by attending in the first place).

58 and 59 Paul and Faith Kozelka RESIDENTS

Paul and Faith moved to Milwaukee from New York City, where Paul was an English professor at Columbia University. His specialty was Shakespeare, and he published seveal books about the playwright. Paul entertained fellow MCH residents by playing piano.

Milwaukee Catholic Home residents return from a fall outing.

Phyllis Smythe RESIDENT

Phyllis worked as a professional reader for the Milwaukee Public Library system, reading and reviewing potential books. She did the same for the State of Wisconsin.

62 and 63 Baptiste and Diane Gardetto RESIDENTS

As the founders of Gardetto bakeries and snacks, Baptiste and Diane were happy to be generous for the good of all their fellow residents. They installed an underground watering system and donated Christmas trees for the holidays.

Resident Red Andrews and his wife lived in the Residence, and could always be found holding hands. When she was confied to a wheelchair, he would push her around and bring her ice cream. Red liked ice cream so much, the dining staff began giving him what they deemed “the Andrews portion” of dessert.

1994

The addition of 122 nursing home beds clears the way for a significantly expanded facility. Plans begin emerge for a stateof-the-art health center with specialized dementia, sub-acute and rehabilitation areas, and intergenerational day programs.

Floor plans and layouts for a new health facility begin to take shape.

Lucella donated the stained glass windows in the St. Joachim Chapel, part of the proposed new health center.

Lucella Brand RESIDENT

1992

RESIDENT AND ORGANIST

Former St. Aemilian-Lakeside property, adjacent to Milwaukee Catholic Home, is purchased in partnership with St. Mary’s Hospital. Roy, a CNA, was a member of the MCH nursing staff. Roy tragically passed away when he drowned trying to save a friend of his. The MCH continuing education fund is named in his honor.

Paul Huber

A retired choir director and musician, Paul never stopped playing. Even when his health was failing, he played the organ for residents at Mass, and even founded a choir. Before coming to MCH, he had worked for 15 years at Gesu and for 20 years as the organist at the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist.

Roy Sims STAFF

Nursing staff assist residents in the new Health and Rehabilitation Center.

Marie Gross RESIDENT

As a resident, Marie knew every bird in the solarium, and even gave names to each one. She was obsessed with the Green Bay Packers, and kitchen staff would deliver her lunches early on game days so she would not miss kick-off. When she passed away Marie left $2 million for renovations to Milwaukee Catholic Home.

67 and 68 Paul and Mary Noelke RESIDENTS

1996

Paul was a partner at the Milwaukee law firm of Quarles and Brady. He and Mary were active in the fine arts, particularly in their support of the Milwaukee Repertory Theater.

Dr. Clifford Mortimer

The granddaughter of Patrick and founder Anna Cudahy, Pauline was a portrait painter, specializing in portraits of Sioux chiefs. In fact, Pauline was inducted into the tribe and given a Sioux name. After a career as a portrait artist in New York, she moved back to Wisconsin and entered Milwaukee Catholic Home.

RESIDENT

Dr. Mortimer, originally from Germany, made his career studying bodies of water. He founded the Center for Great Lakes Studies, now part of the School of Freshwater Sciences, at UW-Milwaukee. In 1995, he won the A.C. Redfield Lifetime Achievement Award for his contribution to the fields of limnology and oceanography.

After a successful capital campaign, Milwaukee Catholic Home expands its health care and rehabilitation services with the building of a designated Health and Rehabilitation Center. Groundbreaking takes place in 1996.

Pauline Williams RESIDENT

Winifred and Emily Lampe RESIDENTS

The Lampe sisters both worked at Marquette University. They dressed in identical outfits to fool the freshmen each year.

70 and 71

Marguerite and her husband David founded a liquor distribution company. Fellow residents remember when she lost her only son, doctor for the Center for Disease Control, to an infection he received while helping the victims of Hurricane Katrina.

1997

The Health and Rehabilitation Center opens at 2330 N. Prospect Avenue.

Marguerite Kohler RESIDENT

72 74 and 75 Franz and Virginia Bidinger RESIDENTS

It’s a family affair at the Milwaukee Catholic Home.Virginia Loeffler married Franz Bidinger, owner of Bidinger Music House in Kenosha. Together, they pursued a lifelong passion for music and the arts, and created the Franz and Virginia Bidinger Endowment for the Fine Arts.

Virginia’s mother, Gertrude Loeffler, was a resident at MCH just before the Bidingers. In fact, Gertrude forbade her daughter from entering the home before she passed away, because she didn’t want her friends to know just how old she was. Gertrude donated funds for the new Health and Rehabilitation Center in 1997.

Gertrude Loeffler RESIDENT

100

Years 100 Lives

CHAPTER FIVE

2000s

he 100th anniversary of Milwaukee Catholic Home is a momentous ocassion not simply because of the new buildings and the increased occupancy numbers. All of those things are blessings, and all are worthy of gratitude. But what makes Milwaukee Catholic Home truly unique is its people. What is a home, after all, without family? In this new millennium, Milwaukee Catholic Home offers a full continuum of care for older adults, including independent living, assisted living, skilled nursing, memory care, and rehabilitation services, as well as many active partnerships with parishes, schools, and community organizations. Milwaukee Catholic Home holds meaning for people far beyond the reach of our residents. It has become a staple in our community and a standard for a level of love, compassion and care for our brothers and sisters. With more remodeling, including a breathtaking renovation of the St. Anne Chapel and the Health and

Rehabilitation center, Milwaukee Catholic Home feels more like home today than ever before. Milwaukee Catholic Home is more than just a place to live. It is a place to experience life at its fullest. Residents have countless opportunities to grow in mind, body and spirit through musical performances, lectures, art exhibits, wellness programming and community prayer and worship and more. Our welcoming, supportive and socially-vibrant environment is vitally connected to the larger Milwaukee community. Our unique approach to retirement services allows residents to age in community, finding support for changing needs while maintaining dignity and independence. Milwaukee Catholic Home’s Catholic identity, rooted in the values of service and compassion, lies at the heart of who we are. The culture is one of loving service to others and joyful celebration of God’s gifts. No gift more important, perhaps, than this very place.

79 and 80 Jorge and Laverne Rossi RESIDENTS

MCH residents celebrate summer at an outdoor luau.

Part of the Gehl Manufacturing Company family of West Bend, Al (second from right) joined his family’s company with his brothers and went on to become CFO. His sister, Anita, also went on to live at Milwaukee Catholic Home.

Al Gehl RESIDENT

As a fashion designer for J.H. Collectibles, Laverne wore high heels until the day she died. Her husband, Jorge, was from Argentina and worked as an attorney for a steel company.

In 2000, at the age of 70, Anne joined the Peace Corps, traveling to the Dominican Republic. She used her extensive science background (she received her PhD in Biological Sciences) to teach and write curriculum in the local school system.

81 Anne Robinson RESIDENT

82 Greg Raab RESIDENT

Dr. James Cameron RESIDENT

Dr. Cameron survived a lynching when he was a young man. His life’s mission became to write and speak about race. He founded the Black Holocaust Museum, and while he was a professor at UW-Milwaukee, he founded the Black History department.

Greg was a painter who worked at both the Milwaukee Public Museum and the Art Museum.

Genevieve was the “roving reporter” of Milwaukee Catholic Home, interviewing her friends and writing up stories for newsletters. At the age of 96, she published her first children’s book: “The Adventures of Peter Churchmouse.”

Genevieve Sanfelippo RESIDENT

83 Arthur Saltzstein RESIDENT

In between his start as a lawyer in the city attorney’s office and his post-retirement stint as interim director of the Milwaukee Public Museum, Art was secretary to Milwaukee mayor Frank Zeidler.

003

Milwaukee Catholic Home houses 150 people in beautiful apartments and 122 individuals in the Health and Rehabilitation Center.

85 Mimi Bruce RESIDENT

Mimi Bruce was raised in a tight-knit clan, and she seemed destined to someday live at Milwaukee Catholic Home: her father helped establish the first chapel at the original MCH location. Active in politics and pro-life ministry, Mimi founded a Wisconsin Right to Life chapter.

Genevieve was 107 years old when she passed away, the oldest resident in the history of Milwaukee Catholic Home. In her 20s, she danced with the famous Rockettes at Radio City Music Hall in New York City.

Genevieve Worthy RESIDENT

The lobby store in the Health and Rehabilitation Center is modeled to look like a coffee shop, and serves snacks and beverages to residents and visitors.

2012 The Marie Hasenoehrl Fitness Center in the lower level of the Residence helps the MCH community stay healthy and active.

Bernice Blenker BENEFACTOR

A generous benefactor, Bernice donated $10,000. Her money went specifically to a Benevolence Fund, because she felt strongly that no resident should be asked to leave for financial reasons. Growing up, Bernice’s family owned a shoe company that was eventually bought out by Allen Edmonds.

88 and 89 Gus and Betty Dreyer RESIDENTS

Gus and Betty lived together at MCH after Gus retired from his real estate appraisal business. In his later years, Gus became skilled at playing the cello.

Milwaukee Catholic Home undergoes an extensive renovation.

Volunteers modeled fashionable outfits from each decade of Milwaukee Catholic Home’s 100 years.

2013 Milwaukee Catholic Home celebrates the 100th anniversary of the Home’s founding in 1913.

William Gutzwiller RESIDENT

Msgr. John Donovan RESIDENT

Msgr. Donovan earned his Canon Law degree from the Catholic University of America and served in the Archdiocese of Milwaukee Tribunal Office. He was pastor at several parishes in the archdiocese. He retired at the Catholic Home and continued to con-celebrate daily Mass in the St. Anne Chapel.

2013

Residents celebrate the 100th anniversary of the founding papers being signed with a day’s worth of events in June, 2013.

A resident at the Health and Rehabilitation enter, William Gutzwiller was a well-known electrical engineer who held 27 patents. He created the first variable speed electric drill, as well as the first solid-state light dimmer switch, now a household necessity.

Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett recognizes June 28, 2013 as Milwaukee Catholic Home Day in the City of Milwaukee.

Larry “The Legend” Johnson RESIDENT

His nickname “The Legend” turned out to be prophetic, as Larry Johnson blazed the trail for talk radio in Milwaukee. He was among the most popular, and most well-paid, radio personalities in Milwaukee during that time. Coincidentally, current MCH staff member Ann Catalane was Larry’s producer at WISN.

2014

The St. Anne Chapel is renovated and rededicated. Mary Helm

RESIDENT

JoAnne Asperheim CHAPLAIN

JoAnne was the first lay chaplain at Milwaukee Catholic Home. She also founded “Stepping Stones,” a prayer and meditation group in her neighborhood. When cancer prevented her from continuing to work, she entered the Health Center where she lived until her death.

Mary, a painter by trade, worked as the director of the UW-Milwaukee Art Gallery. She continued to paint during her time at Milwaukee Catholic Home, and some of her work is displayed there to this day. Below, Mary’s painting of the MCH patio, as seen from her room.

94 and 95 Robert and J. Lou Hall RESIDENTS

Robert and his wife, J. Lou, took over the family business of Hall’s Chevrolet from Robert’s father. Hall’s was a staple in Milwaukee for decades, and to this day, the business is still family-run.

Ruthellen Sanders

RESIDENT AND VOLUNTEER

Justice Donald Steinmetz RESIDENT

As a resident, Ruthellen volunteered her time to run the Milwaukee Catholic Home library. She was recognized as Volunteer of the Year in 2008.

2015

97 An Italian immigrant, Joe worked his way from general laborer to lawyer. He passed away at MCH at the age of 103.

Joseph Ziino

Milwaukee Catholic Home, in partnership with the Franciscan Friars of the Assumption BVM Province in Burlington, launches Clare Gardens, a five acre vegetable and flower garden that supports MCH’s farm-to-table program.

RESIDENT

100

In 2015, staff and residents went on a pilgrimage to Italy in honor of the 100th anniversary of Milwaukee Catholic Home.

Carl, the so-called “silver-haired dean of broadcast news,” had the longest-running career in Milwaukee broadcasting history. Carl began broadcasting a “newscast” from his family’s living room when he was just 12 years old. He lived at Milwaukee Catholic Home for the last eight years of his life.

Congratulations

MILWAUKEE CATHOLIC HOME “The Cudahy family was fortunate to have been a part of the founding of Milwaukee Catholic Home in 1913. Our community is better for its 100+ years of providing a vibrant environment or older adults.” Rick Cudahy Great-grandson of co-founders Anna and Patrick Cudahy

“The Catholic Community Foundation is proud to help an organization that is so important to providing compassionate care and a wonderful community for our older adults. Milwaukee Catholic Home is a vital part of the Milwaukee faith-based community that allows our older adults to live life!” Mary Ellen Markowski President, Catholic Community Foundation

“I see Milwaukee Catholic Home as a place where excellence and compassion live side-by-side. They have been a reputable friend and neighbor for over 100 years and Catholic Financial Life is proud of our relationship.” Bill O’Toole President, Catholic Financial Life

“Milwaukee Catholic Home is very dear to my heart. With its long history of helping people, it shows the face of Christ to so many. Residents, staff and administration and supporters are all to be blessed for making it such an obvious and special place of grace!” Very Rev. Timothy Kitzke Vicar General for Urban Initiatives, Archdiocese of Milwaukee

Congratulations

MILWAUKEE CATHOLIC HOME “On behalf of all of us at Marquette University, I send warm congratulations on the occasion of Milwaukee Catholic Home’s 100th anniversary. For a century, Milwaukee Catholic Home has been a wonderful community resource, providing compassionate care based in faith. I wish you every success in continuing this mission throughout the next century.” Dr. Michael Lovell President, Marquette University

“It was my privilege to serve on the Board of Directors during the construction of the Health and Rehabilitation Center and to participate in the dedication of this fine facility. I am also pleased to know that Milwaukee Catholic Home is often an interim placement for the Sisters of St. Francis of Assisi who are recovering from surgery. ” Sr. M. Camille Kliebhan, OSF Chancellor, Cardinal Stritch University

“I want to personally congratulate Milwaukee Catholic Home on its 100th anniversary. Columbia St. Mary’s is grateful for the many ways our two organizations collaborate and we look forward to a strong future in providing for the needs in our community.” Travis Andersen President and CEO, Columbia St. Mary’s Health System

Blessing of Milwaukee Catholic Home on its 100th Anniversary Blessed are you, O Lord. In the Passover of the Old Testament you kept unharmed the houses of your people that were sprinkled with the blood of a lamb. The fulfillment of your signs is the true paschal lamb, the Son you gave to us. He was crucified for us and raised from the dead, so that we might all be filled with the grace of the Holy Spirit. On the 100th Anniversary of Milwaukee Catholic Home, Bless these people and this place they call home, as well as all those who serve them in this place, so that the joy of your love may gladden the hearts of all who live here. We ask this through Christ our Lord.

Archbishop Jerome Listecki ARCHBISHOP OF MILWAUKEE

Adapted from the Book of Blessings, USCCB 1998

MISSION AND VISION

Mission Rooted in our Catholic tradition and commitment to Christian love and community, Milwaukee Catholic Home provides continuing care services for older adults.

Vision Milwaukee Catholic Home will become the standard against which others are measured by delivering the highest level of services to older adults across the continuum of care. Our board, management, staff, benefactors, volunteers and friends will unite around the shared belief that we are called to do more.

2330 & 2462 N. Prospect Avenue Milwaukee, WI 53211 milwaukeecatholichome.org