Celebrating Brotherhood and Legacy: Charter Class of 1965 Reunion Brings Lions Home

On Saturday, May 10, Saint Viator High School proudly welcomed back members of its first graduating class for a memorable celebration of the Charter Class of 1965. The day’s festivities honored both athletic achievement and enduring brotherhood, beginning on the baseball field and culminating in a heartfelt reunion on campus.

The morning opened with a special recognition of members of the 1965 Baseball Team—Tim Walinski, Don Kulla, Bob Stevens, and Chuck Heinrich—who returned to the Lions’ home field nearly 60 years after leading their team to a second-place finish in the Illinois State High School Baseball Tournament. Invited by Varsity Baseball Coach Terry Beyna, the alumni threw out the ceremonial first pitch and joined current fans in cheering on the Lions. Senior baseball players were also honored, connecting today’s team with the legacy of those who laid the foundation.

Later in the day, the 60-Year Reunion of the Charter Class gathered 52 registered alumni, including 31 who attended all four years on Oakton Street. The evening began in Querbes Hall, followed by a beautiful Mass in the Alumni Memorial Chapel and concluded with a buffet dinner and social hour filled with conversation, laughter, and reflection.

“A memorable gathering of Lions, in a setting that has changed significantly since our days of 1961–1965, who shared laughs, smiles, tears, and stories of both today and days long ago, made a 5-hour reunion feel too short a time to accomplish everything during an event of absolute fun,” said Chuck Heinrich.

“Handshakes, hugs, thoughts, and memories of being classmates and now alumni filled the main foyer, hallways, the Alumni Chapel, and Querbes Hall as classmates once again exhibited the motto to be so true, ‘When You’re A Lion, You’re A Lion For Life.’ My advice for all Lions, now and in the future, is: Never Ever Miss Your Class Reunion!”

The evening was also a chance to reflect on the school’s growth and continued excellence. “I met my expectation to talk with and renew friendships with classmates; however, I was really surprised by the number of positive improvements made since the 50th reunion and the overall cleanliness of the facility,” noted Ed Odmark.

Tom Zimmerman echoed the sentiment of gratitude and pride: “How fortunate we all were to share a night of friendship and memories with fellow classmates from the Charter Class of 1965—our 60th reunion! Saint Viator was and is a special place, and that belief was evidenced at our gathering. Back in the day, although we were Lions, we were known as 'Men of Viator.' I’m so proud to be a part of this unique group!”