Winter 2012 • Volume 73 • Number 1

A MAGAZINE FOR FRIENDS AND ALUMNI OF HILLCREST ACADEMYCONNECTION

remembering

BILL COLBECK

SO MUCH MORETHAN A DIPLOMA

LIVE. LEARN. GO.

I spent my share of time in Mr. Colbeck's offi ce. He was my Principal for 3 years, my senior Social instructor, my basketball coach, and my Student Council advisor. He was also my employer

while I attended seminary and taught at Hillcrest. When a new Campus Pastor position was created in 1996, I returned from the pastorate to work under his leadership.

A great number of others also knew Mr. Colbeck as coach, teacher, advisor, principal and employer. His involvement with Hillcrest Lutheran Academy spanned nearly four decades. This Hillcrest Connection issue is dedicated to his memory as a prominent leader in the story of Hillcrest Lutheran Academy.

Following Mr. Colbeck’s retirement from HLA, his offi ce location changed. And once again, I found myself in Pastor Bill’s offi ce, this time at Bethel Church. He wanted to share with me some of his thoughts and ideas on fundraising, as Hillcrest had just launched the "Fresh Breeze" Capital Campaign. It was clear that his desire

was to see the capital campaign a success, as an effort to ensure a strong future for Hillcrest. Bill’s love for Christian Education continued strong until his passing. We are truly grateful for the many years of faithful service Mr. Colbeck gave to Hillcrest Lutheran Academy.

In the immediate pages that follow, we remember the life of HLA Principal William H. Colbeck. This issue also provides some of the highlights of Hillcrest’s current year in progress, as well as an update on the “Fresh Breeze” capital campaign. May God continue to use this school for His glory as we seek to equip students in a Christ-centered bible-based environment for a life of signifi cance.

God's peace,

Steven J. Brue, HLA President

Dear Alumni and Friends,

GREETING2

HILLCREST ACADEMY REUNIONS 2012

BEACON of M E M O R I E S

CONTENTS

4

7

8

10

HillcrestCONNECTION

FeatureBill Colbeck

FocusMission Minot

StewardshipCharitable ConnectionClub Members

Campus News Dominican RepublicMission Trip

12

13

Campaign Finish Strong

Alumni News 2012 Reunions & GraduationIn MemoryAlumni Updates

HILLCREST ACADEMY BOARD OF DIRECTORS

DWIGHT SCHMIDT | Chair Jamestown, ND

OLAV SANDNES | Vice Chair Mt. Bethel, PA

ROD SCHEEL | Secretary Fergus Falls, MN

DAVE EGGE Alexandria, MN

ANNIE JACOBSENSuccasunna, NJ

KATHY JOHNSONFergus Falls, MN

TODD MATHISONMinneapolis, MN

J. BURDEAN ROGNESSEden Prairie, MN

LISA SCHULTZ-FREDFergus Falls, MN

FRESH BREEZE CAMPAIGN CABINET

OLAV & GINA SANDNESCampaign Co-Chairs

ELLING & BARBARA HALVORSONHonorary Co-Chairs

DWIGHT SCHMIDTHLA Board Chair

LISA FREDHLA Board Member

BURDEAN ROGNESSHLA Board Member

STEVE BRUEHLA President

NICK ROBERTSAlumni ‘05

CAROL STUCKERAlumni ‘81

DEAN STOUTLANDAlumni ‘76

GARY THOMPSONAlumni ‘68

RANDY TRETTEVIKAlumni ‘76

KEVEN CRABTREEBusiness Leader

KERMIT KVAMMEAlumni Parent

STEVE UNDSETHFaculty Representative

Winter-Spring 2012Hillcrest Connection is published

triannually by Hillcrest Academy.

Hillcrest Lutheran Academy610 Hillcrest Drive

Fergus Falls, MN 56537

STEVE BRUE | President Editor-in-Chief

sbrue@ffhillcrest.org

RYAN ERICKSONManaging Editor/Graphic Design

rerickson@ffhillcrest.org

LINDA PATCH Alumni Relations

lpatch@ffhillcrest.org

MISSION STATEMENTThe mission of Hillcrest Lutheran Academy is to equip students in a Christ-centered, Bible-based environment for a life of signifi cance.

The following tribute was shared by Rev. John Kilde at Bill Colbeck's funeral on November 21, 2011:

(When I learned that) Pastor Bill Colbeck had died suddenly...I was stunned. “What!” I exclaimed. … immediately a sense of sadness came over me. A fl ood of memories coursed through my mind. Bill: a friend, a colleague, a sometime fi shing companion (once we went through the ice…probably were walking too close together!), A role model in so many ways – gone! …I went to my offi ce, plunked down in my chair, folded my hands and thanked God for Bill’s life, for his many contributions to the work of the Kingdom of God, particularly to Hillcrest, to the community of Fergus Falls, and to the countless individuals he touched…

To give you an idea of how long Bill and I knew each other and worked together, he and I and the other members of our LBS Holiday Gospel Team sat in our motel in Toledo, Ohio, and watched the Minnesota Gophers defeat UCLA in the Rose Bowl game. That was a long time ago – 50 years to be exact and the Gophers haven’t been back there since!

But my friendship with Bill actually began several years before that – at Lake Geneva Bible Camp near Alexandria, Minnesota. We were both 15 or 16 at the time. Joe and Silence Levang brought him to camp from their parish in Chicago. Insofar as one teenager can be impressed with another, Bill impressed me a lot, even then.

Now my assignment this morning is to pay tribute to Bill: William Harvey Colbeck. I loved calling him “Harv” in our lighter moments. But I want to do this tribute in a little different way.

I want to pay tribute to Bill’s Lord and Savior and the way he chose Bill, touched and molded Bill’s life so that Bill could impact us.

To begin, I wish to honor God for the way He reached out and brought Bill into a saving relationship with Himself at 15 years of age. The Holy Spirit made Bill aware of his sin and his need and then this same Spirit of God gave Bill the faith to believe the Gospel and be assured of his salvation.

IN MEMORY

REV. WILLIAM H. COLBECK1936 - 2011

HILLCREST INSTRUCTOR, COACH & PRINCIPAL

4 FEATURE

In the days following Bill's passing, Hillcrest's Facebook page was fl ooded with condolences and memories shared by former students, colleagues & friends. Some of those refl ections are shared below.

I wish to honor God as well for the way He moved Calvary Lutheran Church in Chicago and Pastor and Mrs. J.H. Levang in particular to take an interest in this friendly, athletically gifted, tow-headed boy who lived just a couple of doors from the church. In those days only God knew what the long range results of that outreach would mean.

This too: I wish to honor God for the call to ministry he placed upon Bill’s heart as a high school lad. God made this call so clear to Bill that he turned down a basketball scholarship to the University of Michigan in order to come to Fergus Falls for a year of pre-theological studies. The Wolverine recruiters must have thought he was very foolish.

One personal refl ection from that year of pre-seminary studies I cannot resist. The Billy Graham fi lm “Oiltown: USA” was being shown in Fergus. Bill and I both attended, going with our dates: he with Joy Sandeno and I with Ruth Elayne Vettrus. Eventually Bill would marry them both. He was a tough competitor.

One more point: Again I wish to honor God for endowing Bill with the talents and spiritual gifts to teach effectively, preach persuasively, thus offering up to God, in the words of Eugene Peterson, “a long obedience in the same direction.”

I made reference earlier in this presentation to the LBS Holiday Gospel team trip to our East Coast Churches. I sang. Bill preached. He used the same text and preached the same message in each place we ministered. The text was Micah 7:7. I think Bill would like you to hear that testimonial from God’s Word:

“But as for me, “the prophet testifi ed, “I watch in hope for the Lord, I wait for God my Savior; my God will hear me.”

That was the prophet Micah’s testimony. It was Bill’s testimony, too.

“To God be the glory.”

I will miss Bill Colbeck very much. I too have fond mem-ories of having him as a teacher as well as a principal. He was like a dad to me when I was away from family many many miles away. - Julie England

I had the privilege of knowing Bill as a stu-dent and as an employee. As a student, I ap-preciated the fact that he spoke his mind with regard to important issues and in spite of the occasional gruff exterior, he truly cared about his students. As a faculty member under his leadership, I witnessed his resolve to get things done, as well as the private moments, when he was moved to tears, when discuss-ing a colleague who was suffering. Thank you Bill for teaching us much about leadership from the vantage point of a Christian world-view. - David Strom

Mr. Colbeck came with the "Good News Singers" on tour Spring '81. He was such a character on that trip, joking around and getting in on some pranks. During the concerts he would give an informative chat about LBS, but then he would open the word and share from his heart what God had laid there. I learned much from him those days ... and came to think of him as a friend. What an encouragment he always was. I'm so thankful that God had him as part of my life, he will be missed indeed ... blessed be his memory. - Betty Haugland Hibler

I especially remember the inspiring and enlighten-ing teachings from Ephesians in Bible class with Mr. Colbeck. Thank you very much Mr Colbeck! Have a great time in heaven...now you can put your holy armor at rest and spend time with the Savior himself :-) - Ann Kristin Leganger Solsvik

Bill Colbeck has left his mark on family and friends, students and associates, church and community. He loved them all. His infl uence will be signifi cant for a long long time. Thanks to Bill and Glory to God. - Joel Egge

Mr. Colbeck exemplifi ed mercy and grace to me on numer-ous occasions while I was at Hillcrest! He was a man that served the Lord until the end and will be missed. There is a saying that "only the good die young" but it seems that God often saves the best for last. I will look forward, this time, to meeting with you again one day. - Sean Erickson

Read more comments at www.ffhillcrest.org/colbeck

GIFTS GIVEN IN HIS MEMORY WILL BE ADDED TO THE WILLIAM H. COLBECK

MEMORIAL ENDOWMENT, ESTABLISHED BY HIS FAMILY.

5FEATURE

HLA MISSION MINOT PARTICIPANTS

6 FOCUS

Students were aware that they were signing up to assist with cleanup following a terrible natural disaster, but few were prepared for the scene that awaited them upon arrival in Minot, ND. "At fi rst I wondered where the destruction was," said Gracia Larson, HLA Senior. "As we drove into town it looked very normal. Then, as we went into the valley, everything turned from normal into wasteland."

On June 24, 2011, a record-shattering fl ood overtook the city of Minot, ND. As the waters receded, the call came out from Our Redeemer's Lutheran Brethren church for workers to assist with the monumental task of cleanup and rebuilding. Hillcrest

answered that call with a group of 16 volunteers who spent the weekend of September 23-25 helping in the relief effort.

The group was split into three teams, each assigned a different project area. Two teams worked in varying stages of demolition while another assisted with carpentry at sites that were ready for rebuilding.

"At fi rst I felt helpless," recounted Gracia Larson, "there was so much to do. Then I realized that even though the work seemed endless, our team had accomplished in four hours what had taken days for the homeowner. We were making a huge difference in that person's life."

While working on a demolition project at a church member's home, one team was approached by a neighboring homeowner who was also in need of help. His wife had given birth just before the fl ood hit. Between his demanding schedule at the Air Force base and caring for their newborn, they did not have time to repair their home. Although it wasn't on the schedule, the team was able to fi nish their other work early and show up at this man's door, offering help. While they were there they had the opportunity to discuss matters of faith and invited his family to connect with Our Redeemer's church.

(Continued on page 8)

"It looked like a ghost town. I was shocked to see that kind of destruction in real life."

-Eivind Samset, HLA Junior & Danielsen Student

7FOCUS

CharitableCONNECTION

Legacy

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Heritage

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societyooooooooocicicicicicicicic etetetetetetetete yyyyyyyyysosossossososososssss yyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy

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A Series on Creative GivingCONSIDER A GIFT OF APPRECIATED STOCK, BONDS OR OTHER SECURITIESGifts of appreciated stock are deductible at the fair-market value, even though the unrealized gain is taxable neither to the donor or the charity. From a tax standpoint, it's nearly always more benefi cial to contribute appreciated stocks (as well as any other kind of appreciated assets) rather than cash.

Consider this example:A couple is planning a gift of $10,000. They are considering two possibilities: (1) a gift of cash or (2) a gift of highly appreciated stock.

Several years ago the couple purchased 100 shares of stock for $10 per share ($1,000). It is now valued at approximately $100 per share. If the couple gives the stock to Hillcrest Academy they can claim its full-market value ($10,000) as a charitable deduction. Assuming a combined federal-state tax rate of 35%, the couple stands to realize a tax savings of $3,500 on their gift. They also avoid the capital gains tax liability they would have had if they had sold the stock themselves.

For more ideas, visit www.ffhillcrest.org/creative-giving

Stanley Arlton EstateKenneth & Mavis Austin John & Cheryl BackstromSteve BenjaminIrv & Kay BergsagelSteve & Linda BrueKeven & Debbie CrabtreeEvelyn Ebner EstateEdward D. Jones & Co.David & Val EggeJoel & Barbara EggeMarian Egge EstateLori FedjeFirst State Bank of Alex-CarlosMabel L. Foss EstateAgnes Freeland Charitable TrustAdleide GunhusG. T. & Ann GunhusElling & Barbara HalvorsonRichard & Linda HegglandRoy & Barbara HegglandHillside Lutheran Brethren MissionsInterstate Inc.Gladys JensenElmer & Julia KaardalJack & Sharon Lacey

Marine NutriceuticalsMinnie NelsonNordic Contracting Co, Inc.Olsoe Charitable Remainder TrustClara OlsoeJohn & Donna OlsonWesley & Ruth OrrestadOtter Tail Power CompanyFrank & Karen PellegrinoRon PowellDonald & Marie Roberts Charitable FoundationNicholas & Leann RobertsJ. Burdean & Kay RognessDarren RognessLaWayne & Bev RognessOlav & Gina SandnesSecurity State BankDwight & Gwen SchmidtEwald & Alice SemsNorma SenumEleanor Sollie Thrivent Financial for LutheransVictory Lutheran Brethren ChurchViking Construction Corporation

The Fresh Breeze campaign provides an opportunity for friends of Hillcrest to name the school as a benefi ciary in their estate plans. This is one of the ways that donors may participate in the campaign, through a deferred gift. Already, the campaign has on record over $1 million that will be gifted through estate plans. While estate amounts that are designated for Hillcrest are not included in the campaign goal, a record of these future gifts helps to ensure future support for the school. It also gives Hillcrest the opportunity to thank families who choose to name Hillcrest in their estate planning.

We would love to include any who have named Hillcrest in their estate plans. Please contact President Steve Brue at 218-739-3371 to discuss this further.

The HLA Legacy Club acknowledges individuals

and groups whose accumulative giving reaches

$25,000 or above.

The HLA Heritage Society acknowledges those who have named Hillcrest in an

estate gift.

Stanley Arlton EstateIrv & Kay BergsagelWilliam Colbeck EstateKeven & Debbie CrabtreeEvelyn Ebner EstateJoel & Barbara EggeMarian Egge EstateMabel L. Foss EstateRich & Karen IversonSelma Langeland EstateMyrtle Nilsen EstateJohn & Donna OlsonGlenn & Yvonne RognessLaWayne & Beverly RognessDwight & Gwen SchmidtLisa Schultz-FredNorma Senum

Minot (continued from previous page)

STEWARDSHIP8

"People were amazed at how many Christians were showing up to help," said Eivind Samset, "they wanted to know what was so special about these people that were willing to lend a hand without expecting anything in return."

"When neighbors asked why we were there, we had a perfect chance to share our faith with them," added Gracia Larson.

Our Redeemer's associate pastor, Pete Pederson, who lost his own home in the fl ood, has a unique perspective on the aftermath. "What I experienced from having people help our family recover from the fl ood is that, while God’s love for me didn’t keep my house from being fl ooded, it was experienced all the more through the love expressed by His people who are fi lled with the spirit of Christ. As a pastor in our community I thank the Hillcrest students and adult leaders for the work they accomplished and the hope they infused into the people they helped."

The work in Minot continues. If you are interested in ways to get involved, please visit www.missionminot.com or contact Our Redeemer's Lutheran Brethren Church at 701.838.0750.

Anonymous (4)Dawn Aandahl LaVerne, CAGeorge & Alice Aase Fergus Falls, MNPaul & Phyllis Aasness Fergus Falls, MNPeter & Katie Aasness Fergus Falls, MNKathi Abel Fergus Falls, MNGuy & Beth Adams Lexington, KYErik & Janet Ambjor Succasunna, NJHans & Kari Andersen East Wenatchee, WAWilliam & Miriam Aune New Brighton, MNPhilip & Joyce Aune Underwood, MNRoy & Marie Barsness Kirkland, WAJoseph & Susan Battillo Mount Bethel, PALiesel Beck Eden Prairie, MNIrv & Kay Bergsagel Minnetonka, MNTim & Mary Bigelow Erhard, MNEthan & Carla Bjornlie Fergus Falls, MNOlive Blikstad Fergus Falls, MNJoyce Boehland Arvada, CORoger & Kay Borowski Campbell, MNJohn & Ellen Borseth Rockford, ILDoug & Nancy Bounds Jamestown, NDTimothy & Lynnette Brennan Fergus Falls, MNCathy Brokke Minneapolis, MNNick & Dahlia Brue St. Paul, MNCharlie & Carrie Brue Fergus Falls, MNBenjamin Brue Fergus Falls, MNHans Brue Bloomington, MNMatthew & Faith Brue St. Louis Park, MNLindsey Brue St. Paul, MNSteve & Linda Brue Fergus Falls, MNTom & Kari Brue Bloomington, MNTitus & Ashley Brue Lino Lakes, MNArlen Brunsvold Naperville, ILThor & Edna Bugge Willow Street, PALorraine Burt Chicago, ILJohn & Larissa Campbell Edmonton, OKDavid & Tonya Cardin Winona Lake, INArt & Betty Christenson Fergus Falls, MNDavid & Dagney Christenson Lynnwood, WADavid & Eunice Christenson Fergus Falls, MNJoel & Liz Christenson Fergus Falls, MNScott & Val Christenson Fergus Falls, MNLane & Lori Christopherson Everett, WACountless Energy Wahpeton, NDKeven & Debbie Crabtree Fergus Falls, MNDan & Lita Crowley Marysville, WADave & Vicki Crowser Fergus Falls, MNClair & Sharon Daines Bozeman, MTLeif & Sonja Dalen Mt. Bethel, PAThelma P. Dalene East Hartland, CTSteve & Kathy Doering Fergus Falls, MNTorbjorg Donoch Scotch Plains, NJDavid & Val Egge Alexandria, MNJoel & Barbara Egge Fergus Falls, MNChuck & Penny Eidem Altadena, CASpencer Endrud Buxton, NDJohn Endrud Loves Park, ILRich & Jeanene Engebretson Edina, MNGerald & Sheri Erickson Mukilteo, WAElroy & Judy Erickson Fargo, NDRyan & Kristin Erickson Fergus Falls, MNMicah Erickson Banning, CAGary & Cynthia Erickson Dalton, MNEric Ewan Fergus Falls, MNCarol Featherstone New Hope, MNLori Fedje Beaverton, ORLawn Pro of Fergus Falls Fergus Falls, MNDr. Allan Fischer Hillsboro Beach, FLMark & Joan Folden San Jose, CAGay & Carol Folden Fergus Falls, MNDavid & Ruthann Forland Huntington, NYE. Thor & Lillian Foss Southold, NYMark & Joanne Foss Glastonbury, CTAllen & Goldie Foss Everett, WAMasson Family Foundation Laguna Beach, CAKevin & Lisa Fred Fergus Falls, MNRoger & Gloria Fuller Lancaster, WISharon Fuhrman Joice, IAWayne & Ruth Goats Scottsdale, AZ

GT & Ann Gunhus Underwood, MNRichard & Diane Gunhus Blue Earth, MNAdleide Gunhus Fergus Falls, MNVictoria Hackett San Francisco, CARoy & Heather Haegeland Lake Stevens, WAElling & Barbara Halvorson Woodinville, WAEvelyn Hansen Snohomish, WATore & Vivian Hansen Mt. Bethel, PALuke & Angela Hansen Edina, MNLes & Sandy Hanson Fergus Falls, MNDonald & Saundra Haugen Marysville, WAGreg & Rita Hayek Fergus Falls, MNKim Hazel Eden Prairie, MNJoy Headrick Denver, CODavid & Beverly Heggen Rothsay, MNRich & Linda Heggland New Port Richey, FLAmanda Heggland Farmington, CTDon & Cathy Heitkamp Mooreton, NDPaul & Sheri Hohncke Fergus Falls, MNDiane Ihrke Fergus Falls, MNGary & Renee Isaac Denver, COJeff & Missi Isaac Fergus Falls, MNRich & Karen Iverson Barnesville, MNMartha Jacobs Seatonville, ILHerb & Helen Jacobsen Mt. Bethel, PAElizabeth Jacobsen Minnetonka, MNJohn & Annie Jacobsen Succasunna, NJKen & Ann Jensen Huntington, NYGladys Jensen Staten Island, NYEdgar & Myrtle Jensen Mt. Bethel, PARichard & Carol Johnson Willow City, NDTim & Karen Johnson Little Falls, MNFred & Elsie Johnson Boone, IADennis & Kathleen Johnson Fergus Falls, MNBrent & Ruth Juliot Fergus Falls, MNElmer & Julia Kaardal Saint Paul, MNCurtis & Elaine Kavlie Richville, MNVaughn & Deb Kavlie Eden Prairie, MNJohn & Janet Kilde Fergus Falls, MNKermit & Grace Kvamme Fergus Falls, MNKevin Kvamme Williston, NDScott & Becky Kvamme Fergus Falls, MNPhilip & Marilyn Labrosse Saint Paul, MNAndy & Brenda Lacey Wendell, MNJack & Sharon Lacey Wendell, MNPaul & Jane Langseth Fergus Falls, MNMorris & Myrt Larsen Fergus Falls, MNJosiah Larson Minneapolis, MNVictory LB Church Jamestown, NDHillside LB Missions Succasunna, NJMatthew & Sue Leach Naperville, ILFrank & Elaine Legerat Fairbanks, AKBrian & Jennifer Leivestad Loveland, COCarol & Michael Lewin Keizer, ORPatricia Linson Fargo, NDLloyd & Thelma Listor Brooklyn, NYSteve & Heidi Listor Mt. Bethel, PAElaine Loeschner Westland, MIHarry Ludvigsen Kerhonkson, NYJoel & Alice Lunde Fergus Falls, MNDorothy Madsen Fergus Falls, MNJeffrey & Eileen Mahn Albuquerque, NMKrista Marshall Minot, NDBrad & Trena Martinson Fergus Falls, MNLuther Mathison Maddock, NDTodd & Anne Mathison Minneapolis, MNJohn & Lisa McAteer Mt. Bethel, PALois McNeill Lincoln, NEBruce & Irene Miller Jr. Mt. Bethel, PATom & Gladys Moline Erhard, MNTom & Bobbi Monacelli Mt. Arlington, NJAlice Monsen Richfi eld, MNSolveig Nelson Fergus Falls, MNWallace & Audrey Ness Fergus Falls, MNWilliam & Marcia Nilsen East Hartland, CTPeter & Lillian Nilsen Brewster, NYJoseph & Berit Olafson Louisville, KYClara Olsoe Seattle, WAManley & Janet Olsoe Fergus Falls, MNJohn & Donna Olson Fergus Falls, MN

Wesley & Ruth Orrestad Bellevue, WAGraham & Priscilla Parker Richland, WAKevin & Linda Patch Fergus Falls, MNRollin & Beverly Pederson Billings, MTKenneth & Norma Peeders Richville, MNFrank & Karen Pellegrino Mt. Bethel, PAIrv & Helen Peterson Menomonie, WIEd & Elaine Peterson Wahpeton, NDGaylen & Kristen Peterson Lake Park, MNRichard Pickett Fergus Falls, MNWayne & Dianne Preston Fergus Falls, MNGregg & Marie Preston Fergus Falls, MNLowell & Paula Quam Fergus Falls, MNLeRoy & MaryAnn Quernemoen Fergus Falls, MNCory & Erika Reinertson Fergus Falls, MNNick & Leann Roberts Houlton, WIDonald & Marie Roberts Trust White Bear Lake, MNLes & LeAnn Rogness Fergus Falls, MNDarren Rogness Moorhead, MNLoran & Lois Rogness Fergus Falls, MNBurdean & Kay Rogness Eden Prairie, MNLee & Lavonne Rogness Fergus Falls, MNLaWayne & Bev Rogness Fergus Falls, MNKevin & Brooke Rogness Fergus Falls, MNGlenn & Vonnie Rogness Underwood, MNEugene & Rhoda Rubey Eugene, ORRon & Barbara Samuelsen East Hartland, CTDee Sanberg Fergus Falls, MNJack & Rochelle Sand Moorhead, MNWill Sandnes Mt. Bethel, PAOlav & Gina Sandnes Mt. Bethel, PALavona Sather Los Angeles, CALynn & Matthew Scarfo Island City, ORDanny & Diane Schatz Fargo, NDRod & Jo Scheel Fergus Falls, MNErnie & Cathie Scheid Fargo, NDNick & Danielle Schmidt Jamestown, NDDwight & Gwen Schmidt Jamestown, NDLois Seaver Edgerton, WIRay & Ardith Seaver Fergus Falls, MNEwald & Alice Sems Lehigh Acres, FLPaul Senum Brooklyn, NYNorma Senum Mt. Bethel, PAArlen & Julianne Severson Esko, MNJane Shulstad Pelican Rapids , MNLeland Sjule Springfi eld, MOEd & Shirley Smith Laquey, MOJohn & Tess Soholt Golden Valley, MNAlf & June Soholt Minneapolis, MNEleanor Sollie Brooklyn, NYElwood & Marie Sollum Rancho Palos Verdes, CADonald & Janet Sorenson Vancouver, WASecurity State Bank Fergus Falls, MNArna Stedjan Fergus Falls, MNWayne & Nancy Stender Fergus Falls, MNDoug & Carol Stender Fergus Falls, MNDan & Eleanor Stenoien Minneapolis, MNDean & Doreen Stoutland Northridge , CARobert & Lorrette Strack Rochester, MNShawn & Amy Stroud Moorhead, MNCarol & Aaron Stucker Paradise Valley, AZDoug & Margarethe Swanson Burnsville, MNWai Nam Tam Flanders, NJGuy & Amy Taylor Fergus Falls, MNJustin & Phyllis Thompson Antler, NDGary & Dorinne Thompson Fergus Falls, MNBorgny & Stan Thompson East Hartland, CTNancy Thompson Boca Raton, FLBrent & LeAnn Torkelson Foxhome, MNGeorge & Julie Townsend Mt. Bethel, PARosemary Traina Roxbury, NJRandy & Diane Trettevik Mill Creek, WACordelia Trones Edina, MNJulie Trones Wayzata, MNGrande Lake Trust Lake Park, MNMark & Cathy Tungseth Fergus Falls, MNRoger & Amy Twedt Fergus Falls, MNLois Tweten Helena, MTTara Tysver Fergus Falls, MNBruce & Lori Tysver Fergus Falls, MNMarvin & Opal Undseth Salem, ORSteve & Lois Undseth Fergus Falls, MNMarty & Mim Valder Everett, WARuth Vall Aitkin, MNJames & Lucinda VerSteeg Richfi eld, MNElroy & Evalee Vesta Fergus Falls, MNDale & Leanne Vesta Sycamore, ILDavid & Lynn Vettrus Watertown, MNDavid & Crystal Veum Fegus Falls, MNKrisjohn & Lindsey Veum Fergus Falls, MNShawn Veum Fergus Falls, MNJason Walkup Fergus Falls, MNLes Watson Fergus Falls, MNAndy & Margaret White Toccoa, GAArthur & Marion Wickstrom Fergus Falls, MNRosalie Williamsen Medical Lake, WAJim & Cheryl Wold Fergus Falls, MNRichard & Oddny Wolderich Bangor, PABette Woodburn Rolling Hils, CA

Club|120 Club|250

Club MembershipClub|500 Club|1000

Club|2500 Club|5000 Club|10000

100 Club Members 5 Club Members 82 Club Members54 Club Members

11 Club Members 7 Club Members 3 Club Members

A wonderful way to participate in Fresh Breeze is by joining a Hillcrest giving club. Club members support the school's annual fund, a vital initiative of the $5 million Fresh Breeze campaign.

STEWARDSHIP 9

DIOS ES BUENO!by Katie Thorkildsen, HLA Senior

"Dios es Bueno, Alábale! Dios es Bueno, Adórale!" Sweaty, tired and covered in dirt, we belted out the words of this now beloved song as we rode back to the COI (Christian Outreach International missions group) house after a long day's work out on the mission fi eld.

The words in English are, "God is good, praise Him! God is good, love Him!" This song was the background of our entire trip in the Dominican Republic. Our Mission: to spread the Gospel and tell the good news of Jesus Christ.

Before we left, we were warned that we would be seeing extreme poverty, but that it shouldn't be more overwhelming than the fact that these people are also poor when it comes to the word of God. The poverty we witnessed in the DR was devastating, but the smiles we saw on nearly every child's face were, in a way, confusing. How can they be so happy when they have nothing? We couldn't understand.

It makes sense that we went to the DR during Thanksgiving break. While we were down there, we realized everything we had to be thankful for. It is so easy to take the simplest, yet most essential things for

granted every day: sturdy homes we live in, running water, fl ushing toilets, safe water and food, cars, beds, clothes and most importantly our exposure to the message of Jesus Christ.

While we were down in the Dominican Republic our primary goal was to visit Santa Fe and distribute all the supplies that had been collected beforehand. However, we quickly discovered that God had greater things in store. After our fi rst full day in the DR, He redirected our priorities. On Saturday morning, we visited a very deprived school called EI Brisol. They were in desperate need of construction help. While we were there we made a plan to restore their school building by constructing a roof and fi xing the existing concrete fl oors. This project consumed most of our time, but the team was involved in many other things as well, including visiting a compassion school, a Haitian village, the Santa Fe school, playing basketball and baseball with local children, and several other n e i g h b o r h o o d outreaches.

CAMPUS NEWS10

RAISING THE ROOFby Grant Malmstrom, HLA Senior

The burning Dominican sun beat down on the bright red backs of the guys laying sheet metal on the newly framed roof. The sheets were diffi cult to nail down. It certainly didn’t help that the metal acted like a mirror, refl ecting the sunlight back on to their faces and into their eyes. They worked up on the roof for 3 days. Nearly every hand had blisters from trying to pound dull nails through endless sheets of steel. It was all starting to take its toll on the group.

Conditions on this roof building project were less than favorable, but the reason for why the work was being done far outweighed any temporary discomfort.

When the mission team arrived at El Brisol School and saw the leaky roof, rotting rafters and an unfi nished cement fl oor, the leaders knew that they needed to help, even though it wasn't on the schedule. For the next few days, the team worked together to fi nish the fl oor and construct an entirely new roof. Head of construction, Craig Nersten said, “The condition of the fl oor was awful and the roof leaked. Class had to be cancelled whenever it rained”.

Once the decision was made to start renovation, the fi rst step was to clear the desks and children out of the school to prepare the area where the new cement would be laid. The teachers couldn't have class while the school was being worked on, so while some team members hacked and shoveled to clear the cement area, the others played with the kids. A favorite of the children was “caballo” or “horse” rides on their backs. The girls would also braid each other's hair.

The next step was to mix and lay the cement on the fl oor. Since the mission team did not have access to modern machinery, all the cement needed to be mixed by hand. Once that was done, Craig and some local Dominicans quickly laid and smoothed the cement to complete the fl oor.

Once there was a solid foundation to work from, the team began demolishing the old roof. This was relatively easy, considering the existing boards were only held down by bent rebar.

Again, the lack of proper equipment became a challenge that the team had to work through. They needed to construct a roof without using any scaffolding. The majority of the time was spent getting everything cut correctly, put into position, and erected in the best possible way. Once all the rafters and support beams were put up and secured, the team worked on getting the sheet metal up and nailed in. This was challenging work. In order to reach the upper parts of the roof, the workers had to climb over the slippery sheets to get into position. For everyone but Craig, it was their fi rst experience doing construction. They had to learn quickly and be very careful. “Everyone was focused, listened to instruction, and there was zero complaining from anyone.” Craig commented, “It was miraculous that we got it done on time and no one was hurt.

In the end, the El Brisol school was able to function without the worry of water or wind causing damage. The team returned to the school the next day and were interviewed by a local TV station. Through this opportunity they were able explain to the entire community why they had come and used the platform to share the Gospel.

CAMPUS NEWS 11

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FRESH BREEZE SUCCESS STORY #2

STUDENT SCHOLARSHIPS ARE BEING AWARDED

Providing fi nancial aid to families really resonates with HLA donors. The $300,000 campaign goal to grow Hillcrest endowments was exceeded

early in the campaign. An additional 6 scholarships have been awarded in this current year with over $50,000 in total awards.

CLASSROOMS

Sponsor a Yard

Finish 3 feet of perimeter wall in the classroom section

of the Hillcrest building. Sponsorship includes furring,

insulating, wiring, drywall & taping.

Refi nishing classroom walls allows for much greater

energy effi ciency and functional placement of electrical and data connections while signifi cantly

enhancing room appearance.

Suggested Gift: $1000/yard

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9. Buy A Classroom Lighting Fixture8

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7. Buy An Acoustic Panel

10. Buy A Classroom Window

“Thank you for the scholarship gifts that enable me to attend

Hillcrest. Every year I learn so much, not only academically,

but also about scripture and apologetics. I am so glad you have

given me the opportunity to surround myself with a Christian

environment. I am eager to follow God’s calling in my life.”

- Student, Class of 2012

“Thank you so much for awarding our son a

Hillcrest scholarship. This scholarship made

it possible for him to return to Hillcrest. Our

family is extremely grateful, knowing his time

at Hillcrest has made a big impact on his life.”

- Parent, Class of 2012

Millwork Restoration

Classroom Acoustical Treatment

Anti-glare Classroom

Lighting Fixture

Window Replacement

Hillcrest’s classic structure is full of beautiful craftsmanship,

much of which is in need of specifi c attention. This gift

provides for the restoration or replacement of woodwork,

trophy cases, window trim, molding, doors and door jams.

Hardwood fl oors will also require repair when radiators and

pipes are removed as part of the campus HVAC upgrades.

Hardwood fl ooring and other solid surfaces pose signifi cant challenges for

classroom acoustics. Specially-designed acoustic paneling offers sound dampening

properties while preserving the classic aesthetic of Hillcrest’s classroom spaces.

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reduce eye-strain in classroom

and offi ce environments.

Due to the extent of renovations, some windows

must be replaced.Suggested Gift: $2,00010 Needed

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FINISH STRONG

The Fresh Breeze campaign is already a success! The Lord has been blessing our appeal with an overwhelming response from alumni and friends of HLA. What a joy it is to announce that less than $700,000 is needed to meet the $5 million campaign goal!

In early December, Hillcrest mailed the Finish Strong Project Completion Catalog to all alumni and friends of the school. This catalog captures some of the highlights of the campaign in progress. It also gives you some very practical ideas of what your gifts will do

to fund a huge improvement that past operational revenues haven’t been able to fund.

To date, we have received a tremendous response from this appeal. If you haven't yet had the chance to browse the catalog and make a selection, we encourage you to do so soon. Every dollar counts as we bring the campaign to a close during the graduation weekend festivities this year. A postage-paid response envelope has been included in this magazine.

It’s time for another renovation project in the “old castle.” Your generous response will help to make this happen! Thanks for providing an extra stream of revenue to make this dream a reality!

Organization Phase

Commitments received from most Board &

Cabinet Members and full-time HLA Staff

Quiet Phase

Lead Gift Commitments

Public Phase

Public launch banquet in Fergus Falls and additional Fresh Breeze gatherings across the country

$0

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$2,000,000

$3,000,000

$4,000,000

$5,000,000

26%

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83%

86%

86% Received inCash and Pledges

$4.3 Million

$698,00014% Remains

Winter 11-12Summer 11Spring 11Winter 10-11Fall 10Summer 10Spring 10Winter 09-10Fall 09Summer 09Spring 09Pre-Campaign Spring 12

CAMPAIGN12

Register for the Alumni Brunch!Online at www.ffhillcrest.org/brunch or call Linda Patch at 218-737-6414

HILLCREST ACADEMY REUNIONS 2012

BEACON of M E M O R I E SFor more than 70 years each graduating class of Hillcrest Academy has had an edition of the Beacon to call their own. Each one is a celebration of another year of memories, another year of achievements, and another year of Hillcrest continuing to carry out its mission of being a beacon of light to students all over the world.

We love the expressions on faces of alumni as they return to the HLA campus and begin to recall fond memories of their time at school. It isn’t long before the memories become stories for the telling and retelling.

It is our pleasure to welcome you back to the Hillcrest campus for this year’s Alumni reunions and Graduation festivities. Plans have begun… it won’t be long before Friday, May 25th rolls around. We hope you’re making plans to share the weekend with us.

GRAD WEEKEND SCHEDULE

MAY 25 FRIDAY3-5 pm Guided Campus Tours*

7 pm HLA All-School Concert

Bethel Lutheran Church

MAY 26 SATURDAY10 am Alumni Brunch* & Class Photos

HLA Student Activities Center, All HLA/LBS

alumni and families welcome. $10 per person.

3:30 pm Senior Honors Awards

Bethel Lutheran Church

4:30 pm Senior Honors Banquet (by Invitation)

Bethel Lutheran Church

7 pm Senior Class Night

HLA Student Activities Center

MAY 27 SUNDAY10 am Baccalaureate & Commencement

HLA Student Activities Center

12:30 pm Traditional Singing of Class Song

HLA Front Steps

* RSVP Requested

ALUMNI NEWS 13

IN MEMORY:

Addie's senior portrait from the 1956 Beacon.

Charlotte (Strand) Moline (H'35), died Monday, Sept. 5, 2011, at Lakeland Hospice House in Fergus Falls, surrounded by her family. She had been a resident of and cared for by the staff of the Hospitality House on Dayton Lake since June of 2007.

She was born June 19, 1918, in Towner, N.D., the daughter of Olaf and Clara (Oberg) Strand. She was baptized by her grandfather, K. T. Strand, who was a pastor in the Church of Rolette, N.D., which later became Ebenezer Lutheran Brethren Church.

Her last two years of High School were spent in Grand Forks, N.D., working for her room and board while attending Hillcrest Lutheran Academy. Her dad

sold a pig for $30 so she could attend. The school district took care of her tuition. She treasured her time at Hillcrest, the friends she made there, and now she has joined those who have met the Lord.

On July 17, 1940, she married James T. Moline. They farmed for many years in Frontier, Saskatchewan, Rolette, ND, and Roseau.

Charlotte is loved and will be greatly missed by her 13 children, six boys and seven girls. Charlotte loved her family and all her grandchildren so very much. She enjoyed fl owers and gardening. She was a member of Bethel Lutheran Church, where she served as a deaconess and was a member of the

Quilters Group and WMF.

Addie (Rolfsen) Mathison (H'56), died Thursday, Sept. 15, 2011, at Sanford Health in Fargo.

Adeline (Addie) Rose Mathison was born June 22, 1938, in Wolf Point, Mont., to Robert and Agnes (Holoien) Rolfsen. Her father passed away when Addie was two years old. Ten years later, her mother married his brother, Arnt Rolfsen. She attended school in Malta, Mont., and Fergus Falls, graduating from Hillcrest Lutheran Academy in Fergus Falls in 1956.

She married Luther A. Mathison on May 31, 1959, at Bethel Lutheran Church in Fergus Falls. The couple lived and farmed near Toronto, S.D., from 1960 to 1970. While living on the farm, they had two boys and a girl.

Addie and Lu served with Lutheran Brethren World Missions in Cameroon

for 17 years developing an agricultural training program, and in Chad for three years helping launch a new ministry to Muslims.

Addie taught Sunday school in Cameroon and trained Sunday School teachers with a team of African pastors. They returned to the U.S. July 2001.

Addie’s children and grandchildren were a great joy to her. Addie had a strong, child-like faith in Jesus Christ, and she served her Lord on three continents and in fi ve countries. Her life verse was 1 John 5:13: “I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life."

She will be remembered for her love of people, and her enjoyment of fun, games and song; she brought joy wherever she went. Above all, Addie’s love, support and dedication to her husband, Lu — throughout their life together, and in their many ministries near and far — will never be forgotten.

Lucille (Habberstad) Emerson (H'39) was born October 16, 1921, in Minneapolis, MN, the daughter of Sigurd and Helen (Sethre) Habberstad. The family moved to Seattle, WA for 2 years and then to Braham, MN where they farmed and Lucille was confi rmed. In 1936 the family moved to Fergus Falls. Lucille’s father worked as a custodian at Lutheran Brethren Schools where she graduated from in 1939.

On April 10, 1943, she married Reuben B. Emerson at Fergus Falls. The couple resided in Montana before returning to Fergus Falls. Lucille worked various jobs at the Pioneer Retirement Center and also the Broen Memorial Home before retiring and moving into Riverbend Apartments.

Lucille is a member of the Living Faith Lutheran Brethren Church and volunteered with several community organizations. She found great joy and comfort in her faith in Jesus Christ and his unfailing love.

Lucille passed away Thursday evening, October 26, 2011 at the Good Shepherd Nursing Home in Watford City, ND.

Pastor Burton Bundy slipped into eternity on Sunday, December 25, 2011. Burton George Bundy was born December 26, 1925 in Esmond, ND, to Anton and Josina (Waterud) Bundy. The family lived on a farm near Esmond, ND. In 1943, Burton graduated from Beaverton High School in Beaverton, OR. He was drafted into WWII with the Army and served in Okinawa, Japan where he was severely wounded. He received the Bronze Star, the Purple Heart and other various medals for his service.

After nearly a year of hospitalization from his wounds, he returned to the farm in North Dakota where he married his fi rst wife Helen (Simonson) Bundy and had three children Michael Bundy, Daniel Bundy, Susan (Bundy) Jenks. Helen passed away from complications with Multiple Sclerosis. Burton later remarried to his current wife Bonnie (Delaney) Bundy on November 28, 1954. From that union three more children were born Jane (Bundy) Backstrom, Patricia (Bundy) Roeder, and Barry Bundy.

Burton’s heart was always in serving his Savior and throughout these moves he was a lay pastor for many churches. He played a great role in planting many churches.

Even in his 80’s God was not through with Burton. He had a vision for a church in Watford City and with his son, Dan at his side, they started putting together a number of people in that town to organize a group of people to start an LB church. While poor health slowed Burton down, the church planting

Memorials continued on the back cover...

ALUMNI NEWS14

ALUMNI UPDATES

1930’sA biography of Vernon Ellingson (LBS'33) entitled Pitching My Way Through World War II has recently been published.

This inspirational story of devotion, duty,

and love includes over 300 letters Pfc.

Ellingson wrote home to North Dakota

while serving during World War II, as

well as over 700 photos and illustrations.

Vernon passed away in 2001.

The book may be ordered online at:

www.bookstopshere.com or by phone

at 505-296-9047.

Congratulations to Palmer Valder & Wava (Ramsey) Valder ('39, both) who celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary on

February 14, 2012. They met

each other while attending

Lutheran Brethren Schools.

They were happily married on

Valentine's Day, 1942, at Zoar

Lutheran Brethren Church in

Lake Mills, Iowa.

1940’sDonna Herleikson-Murk (H'48) went to be with Jesus on Monday,

February 13th, after 3 1/2 years of being an invalid at home. She

is survived by her husband, Jim, her 5 children, 15 grandchildren,

and 4 great grandchildren. There aren't words for how much she

will be missed. Her children are all serving the Lord and all of

her grandchildren know Jesus. She lived for the Lord with all of

her heart, especially in the context of her husband, children, and

grandchildren. She spoke often of her days at Hillcrest and her

love for all of her friends there. We trust that God has had His will

in calling her Home and yet she will be missed beyond words.

1990’sKristi (Johannessen) Ramsden (H'92) writes: I am happy to

announce the birth of my son, Kolton Jon, on Valentine's day,

Feb 14th, 2011. I now have 3 wonderful children that are all

growing so fast. My husband, Curtis is a marine mechanic and

I am a pharmacy technician. I fi nd it so hard to believe that

it has been 20 years since we graduated coming this May. I

hope everyone is doing well and am hoping and praying that

my family will be able to make it for our 20th reunion. I am on

facebook, so look me up or send me a message.

Nancey Bridston Hocking (H'93) and Captain Christopher

Hocking welcomed daughter Victoria Lily on May 11,

MEMORIAL GIFTSHillcrest Lutheran Academy has been honored to receive gifts in memory of several alumni and friends. This list will continue to be updated with new gifts as they are received.

In 2011, gifts were received in the name of:Janet (Monsen) Aasby of Fergus Falls, MNC. Lloyd Bjornlie of Fergus Falls, MNRussell Christopherson of Seattle, WABill Colbeck of Fergus Falls, MNMargaret Drechsel of Fergus Falls, MNS. Arlo Eliason of Bloomington, MNLucille Emerson of Watford City, NDMarilyn Endrud of Mayville, NDLeighton Erickson of Austin, TXOlene Erickson of Roseville, MNAdleide C. Gunhus of Blue Earth, MNWalter Halvorson of Fergus Falls, MNGrant Hammond of Minneapolis, MNIda Hanson of Fergus Falls, MNHeidi Helland of Fergus Falls, MNElthea Lass of Glyndon, MNFern Liechty of Jamestown, NDBeverly Loge of Valley City, NDDennis Madsen of Fergus Falls, MNAddie Mathison of Maddock, NDCharlotte Moline of Fergus Falls, MNKeith Nash of Fergus Falls, MNMyrtle Nilsen of Bloomington, MNAndrea Nix of Eugene, ORToralv Ostensen of Fort Myers, FLWendell Patch of Billings, MTJonathan Rinden of Rochester, MN

Alan Ryan of Sunburst, MTPauline Stalsberg of Viroqua, WIBeverly Steiner of Fergus Falls, MNSylvia Strom of Fergus Falls, MNDuane Trones of Minneapolis, MNPeter Tungseth of Fergus Falls, MNJoseph Undseth of Fergus Falls, MN

In 2012, gifts have been received in the name of:Alice Aanden of Fergus Falls, MNMargaret Bergsagel of Seattle, WABill Colbeck of Fergus Falls, MMWillard Dutcher of Pearce, AZRuth Eriksen of Raymond, MEHoward Graff of Eden Prairie, MNRobert Johnson of Minneapolis, MNAddie Mathison of Maddock, NDCharlotte Moline of Fergus Falls, MNJerome Rognes of Lake Mills, IAJoseph Undseth of Fergus Falls, MN

We would appreciate your help in selecting candidates for the 2012 “Alumnus

of the Year.” Please submit the name(s) of the Alumni whom you believe are deserving of recognition and fall into the following criteria:

Have graduated from Hillcrest Academy

Have demonstrated faithful service in church, community and/or nation

Have shown continued interest in the mission and ministry of Hillcrest Academy

Please email the name, address and a summary of your reasons for nominating this person to Linda Patch at lpatch@ffhillcrest.org. You may also contact Linda by phone at 218-737-6414. Deadline for nominations is April 30, 2012.

The new Thrivent Choice Program requires Thrivent members to re-designate “Hillcrest” as a recipient of Thrivent’s charitable grant dollars for 2012. Please contact us at 218-739-3371 for more information on how you can participate.

(continued on back cover)

ALUMNI NEWS 15

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ALUMNI BRUNCH 2012

Register Today!

Saturday, May 26 at 10am in the HLA

Student Activities Center. $10/person.

Register online at www.ffhillcrest.org/brunch

or call Linda Patch at 218-737-6414.

IN MEMORY (cont.)

CLASS UPDATES (cont.)

2011. Christopher is stationed at

Hanscom AFB in Boston and we

live in Merrimack, NH, where I

keep busy with a rowdy baby and

freelance projects as historian,

archivist and editor.

John and Caristy Olson (H'97, both) write: Hi everyone!

We have moved over to Taiwan where John is the English

pastor at a Chinese Lutheran Brethren Church. We have

two handsome boys - Nikolas (born in '07) and Mikah

(born in '09). We are expecting our third child, a baby girl,

sometime this winter. We are very blessed!

2000’sJosh Sawyer (H'00) proposed to his girlfriend, Patti, of fi ve

years in the Spring of 2011. They will be married in a private

cermony in Oak Glen, CA in August 2012.

continued and there now is an LB church in Watford City, called Living Faith where he and Bonnie are members.

Burton’s main interest was serving the Lord, but he also enjoyed people by visiting and getting to know them. He was a servant leader. Even in his last days, he demonstrated his love for others with kindness to those who cared for him. Burton passed away at Luther Memorial Home and went home to be with his Savior. As he told his daughters in the last days, “I want to see Jesus.”

Olene (Olsen) Erickson (H'47) passed away peacefully Oct. 24, 2011. She was born to Elias & Elizabeth Olsen on September 14, 1929. She graduated from Hillcrest Academy and Norwegian Hospital Nursing School in Brooklyn, NY. Olene is now with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Myrtle (Vall) Nilsen (H'??) "Myrt" age 81, of Bloomington, MN passed away May 5th. She was born September 16, 1929 in Aitkin, MN to Oscar and Evelyn Vall. She was a graduate of Hillcrest Academy, Fergus Falls, MN and Lutheran Deaconess Hospital School of Nursing, Mpls., MN. Myrt is now with her Savior Lord Jesus Christ. Blessed be her memory.

Jerome Rognes, age 92, of Lake Mills, died Saturday, January 14, 2012, at the Lake Mills Care Center in Lake Mills, Iowa.

Jerome was born on January 9, 1920, in Winnebago County, IA, son of Alfred and Jenette (Bye) Rognes. He was confi rmed at Bethel Lutheran Brethren Church in 1935 and graduated from Joice High School in 1939. At a young age, he accepted Jesus Christ as his personal Savior.

Jerome married Mavis V. Olson on April 14, 1943 in Mason City, IA. He farmed in the Joice, Leland and Emmons area until a farming accident in 1968. Upon leaving the farm, he worked at the Lake Mills Light Plant and drove school bus for the Lake Mills Community Schools.

He has lived in Lake Mills since 1973 and moved into the Lake Mills Care Center in February 2008. Jerome and Mavis are longtime members of Bethel Lutheran Brethren Church in Joice, IA.

Jerome was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and great-great-grandfather. Four of his daughters are alumni of Hillcrest Academy, as well as two granddaughters.

Duane Trones was born in Minneapolis, MN on December 14, 1926 to his parent Rudolph O. Trones and Molly M. (Jacobson) Trones. He passed away on Friday, July 15, 2011 at age 84. Duane graduated from Minnehaha Academy in 1944 and earned his BA and BS degrees in Education and Electical Engineering

from Augsburg College and the University of Minnesota.

He married Cordelia (Kilde) Trones on November 20, 1948. Cordelia went to Hillcrest Academy and graduated in 1944. Duane and Cordelia's three daughters also attended Hillcrest, and like her, loved being at and involved in the school, including the wonderful music program! Mary Beth (Trones) Carlson graduated in 1969, Debra Jean (Trones) Becker graduated in 1973, and Julie Trones graduated in 1976.