2011 Year in Review

Appreciation Night

Charles Grenier, President, and the Board of Directors of the LHSAA, welcomed alumni who helped at various alumni functions to The John Molson Room in the Molson Brewery. It is the Association's way of saying thank you to all of you who have given of your time to lend a helping hand - whether it be at CSP events, helping out at the golf tournament, organizing reunions and the like. As always the evening was a wonderful venue with lots of laughs and a great sense of camaraderie. For those of you who could not make it, we raised a toast in your honor. Thanks one and all.

Toronto Luncheon

On May 19, high atop the Toronto skyline, some sixty Loyola alumni attended a luncheon hosted by Gerry McCaughey '72, President and CEO of the Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce. Special guests included Father Michael Murray S.J., Loyola's President, and Father Winston Rye S.J., who now works and resides in Toronto. Alumni Director, Bob Shaughnessy '61, was accompanied by a strong contingent from the Development Office: Pat Dubee '64, Jim Pearson '49, Maria Carneiro and Yuri Mytko '93.
In his opening remarks, Pat Dubee recounted how an old Loyola High School rival might think that their alumni own the country; however, to their dismay, Loyola High School alumni run the country, evidenced by graduates like Finance Minister Jim Flaherty '66 and our gracious luncheon host, Gerry McCaughey '72. Pat Dubee introduced Gerry who recalled some of his favorite moments at Loyola and then spoke about the attributes of his Loyola High School experience and stressed how important that experience will be to future generations. Gerry was thanked by Jim Pearson '49. As Dan Haney '69 put it so well; "It seems that regardless of the location of the event, a Loyola High School Alumni gathering brings the Loyola spirit to the forefront and in a few reflective moments, indeed makes one truly grateful for the Loyola experience, even after forty-two years."

The Annual Ottawa Pub Night

Pictured below; Bill Brown '76, Chris Bolger '74, Steve Campanelli '85, Maria Carnerio, Nick Neuheimer '88, John Mayo '77 and Stephen Hendrie '78, joined up with fellow Ottawa alumni and the usual contingent from the school, namely Dubs, Shag, Yuri and Maria, for yet another fun filled evening at The Clock Tower Pub. Always a great time and we look forward to seeing everyone again next year.

The Eighteenth Annual Peter Ferguson Golf Tournament

It was a perfect day for the Annual Peter Ferguson Golf Tournament. Over ninety enthusiastic golfers crossed the Mercier Bridge to test their skills at The "Royal and Ancient" Lafleur Golf Course. You could hear shrieks of laughter, choruses of moans, and much ribbing, as an amazing assortment of golf shots were executed throughout the day. Peter's friends and teammates were out in force along with many of the usual suspects and a number of new faces. They come to remember a good buddy and all young men and women who are no longer with us. In the spirit of the tournament, where camaraderie and a sense of family hold sway, all had a great time, which was enhanced by the odd libation and a great dinner afterwards. A special thank you to Tom Reynolds for taking the pictures (view more photos in the Photo Gallery) and to Sean Burke for procuring the majority of the prizes. Each year we raise a bursary in Pete's name ($6000) and this year was no different. Thanks guys and we look forward to seeing you on the links next year.

Class of 1961 Celebrates its Fiftieth

Pictured below are members of the class of 1961 who attended a cocktail party in the High School on the Friday Night. Standing: left to right: Steve Pond, Eugene D'Iorio, John McCallum, Rick Santo, Al Radl, Peter Quelch, Mike Cullen, Bob Leclerc, Kevin Foster, Bob McCluskie, John Corbett, Barry Macdonald, Gord Lackenbauer, Bob McGovern, Terry Prendergast, Bob Shaughnessy and Jim Pearson (former teacher). Sitting: L to R: John Mancuso, Dave Wayland, Lech Lesiak, Peter Shea, Rick McConomy, Doug Potvin (former teacher) and Joe Hevesy. Missing: John Beland, George Filotas, Paul Guay, Emile Knystautas, Brian O'Connor, Gord Pallett, Victor Pappalardo, Charlie Smith, Paul St. Georges and Paul Tutsch.
We all thought we were twenty again. Four days and nights of telling stories, laughing, playing golf, tours of the school and the city, going to the Cirque de Soleil and reconnecting as only Loyolans can taught us otherwise. We're a tad older. The last time some of us had seen each other was fifty years ago, as we said goodbye in the summer of '61. What a thrill it was to see each other again and to see that everyone was still full of life, blessed with good health and with a twinkle in their eye. There was Al Radl who came from Austria, stepping on Canadian soil for the first time in ages. His good buddy, Brian O'Connor, came in from Ontario and gave us an excellent presentation on the life of our classmate Rick Monette, a force in Canadian theater, who passed away in 2008. Bishop Terry Prendergast, S.J. said Mass in the high school chapel on the Saturday before the main event and prayed for our deceased classmates. Bob Leclerc gave the "Address to the Graduating Class of 2011"  and Barry Macdonald generously hosted the Saturday night finale at the University Club. During the proceedings on the Saturday night, a number of classmates took us back on that magical journey to our youth and regaled us with insights into those days long gone. But for a moment ... Bob McCluskie set the tone with his wit and humour and even got a little whimsical. It was wonderful to hear the stories and the laughter that followed. We should not be surprised that we still have great affection for each other. Thanks to all for making this event truly memorable. Let us always live our lives with unbridled optimism, with a desire to be a force of good in the world, and that "Forever Young" spirit. We will not wait five years to once again enjoy each other's company - we will be in touch. Till then, God speed.

 Address to the Graduates

Robert Leclerc '61 graduated from Loyola High School fifty years ago. This June he returned to Loyola to give the address to the graduating class of 2011. He posed the question: "What would I do as a graduate in 2011? A university education is a good start and clearly gives you a ticket to the dance of life. It does not end there. You need to think things through seriously and discuss choices with your parents and others who may bring some wisdom to the table. Be in no hurry to jump at the first opportunity. You have also had the benefit of a Jesuit-influenced education and have heard that it is a good thing to be a man for others. See what you can do for the general good and avoid placing yourself first and foremost at all times. The quality of our lives should be linked to others and if, through the grace of God, we are provided with a better assortment of talent than others, let's use it. In my book, "compassion and care are just fine."

The Loyola Medal

Charles Grenier, recently elected President of The Loyola High School Alumni Association, presents the "Loyola Medal" for being the most representative student in all areas of school life, to Kyle Martis. The final selection is made by a vote of the faculty and the graduating class. The LHSAA presents the medal and a check for $1000 each year at graduation.

Christian Service Program

Once again, fifty or so alumni came to Loyola on a Saturday morning in early December, and with Loyola students and family in tow, canvased the streets of NDG for food and donations for The NDG Food Depot. Over the years, the Depot has evolved from simply handing out food to the needy of the community to addressing the age-old question: "How do we break the cycle of poverty?" They have embraced a holistic approach to poverty, namely, the nourishing of spirits and minds and not just nourishing bellies alone. This mission of providing food became a unique opportunity to connect people to a variety of resources and information they were often not aware of. The once little food bank now provides cooking programs as well as a variety of projects to help prepare people for their next step in life. It has become a Community Hub where people can find meaningful ways to engage and forge new solutions to hunger, poverty and social isolation. In the words of Executive Director Fiona Keats: "The overwhelming support and encouragement that we receive from our community tells us that our approach resonates with many people. We are actually building the kind of community we can be proud to live in." We thank all our alumni who helped to collect the food for an organization in our community.

Labre House

The boys and girl (that would be Kathy Mullins), with some with their children in tow, once again drove down to "The Point" and helped with a Bar-B-Q for the homeless in the area. This event has become quite well known and there were over 150 people who were more than happy to wolf down the traditional fare of hamburgers and hot dogs. A special thank you to all for showing up and helping out.

Summer Outing

Each year, the LHSAA organizes a "summer outing" for Alumni of all years. This year it was decided to revisit the popular dinner cruise/fireworks evening down at the Old Port. Forty-five of us were treated to a spectacular fireworks display from the deck of an AML cruise boat in the St. Lawrence, dinner and drinks on board, and a cruise down the St. Lawrence. Pictured below, from L to R: Frank '85, Lexia, Calvin and Lina Zullo, Rebecca and Jason Campbell '93. A great night was had by all. Till next summer!

 The Fifteenth Smoked Meat, Oyster and Beer Bash

The Loyola High School Alumni Association (LHSAA) thanks all alumni for making the fifteenth edition of The Annual Homecoming Smoked Meat, Oyster and Beer Bash the best one yet. Over 550 Alumni from all years (but especially the reunion years) descended on the premises to celebrate all that is special about being a Loyola Grad - namely, a sense of family and commitment to one another and the community we strive to serve. This fifteenth year marks a key milestone for this very popular event that we all look forward to each and every year. It was first started in 1997 by our founding President, Patrick Shea, who, in close collaboration with his dad, Peter, and other members of the Alumni Board, were the initial sparks that helped make the LHSAA what it is today - a thriving organization as witnessed by the turnout. We salute Patrick and we sincerely thank all members of the Board of Directors over the years for their on-going support! This evening would not have been possible without the hard work of the usual suspects and a special thank you goes to Father Mathieu for saying the Mass on the Saturday. But it behooves me to mention our sponsors for their contributions to the Silent and Live Auctions. These auctions are the lifeblood of the Association, as they enable it to donate to various causes and to attain its present quest - namely, a permanent bursary in the name of all Alumni - we are almost there. To each and every one of our sponsors: "You guys are the best."

Kudos to your classmates who organized the reunion years. Here's what David Boyd '71 had to say about the fortieth: "One thing that I found interesting, and it was also mentioned by a couple of others in our class, was the fact that of the attendees, there wasn't any one group of guys who were part of the same gang they hung around with while at Loyola. It was interesting to catch up with classmates that we weren't close to in high school - some of whom hadn't yet been to any reunion. I think the shared experience of Loyola is really a feature that transcends whatever individual interests and cliques we had while in school. And this was evident at our reunion. I look forward to the next one." You can read more stories in the fall edition of Loyola Today.

 Some would think that all the stories had been told, but we all know that these stories just get enhanced as the years go on. As the evening came to an end (just a beginning for many of the boys), there were smiles and salutations, with friendships re-forged and promises to meet again in the near future. It is indeed magical to see so many guys come together in this spirit of camaraderie and share in the delight of seeing each other. We look forward to reconnecting next year. Even if it is not your anniversary year, come on out. If your grad year ends in a two or a seven, and you would like to be involved in the organizing of the weekend, please contact Bob Shaughnessy at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Pictured below: A happy contingent from the class of 1986, celebrating their twenty-fifth reunion: L to R, Marty Valasek, Frank Vela, Jimmy Rogers, Pierre Monaghan and Joel Neuheimer.
(view more photos in the Photo Gallery)

 Alumnus of the Year

 The summer meeting of the Board of Directors of the LHSAA was held in an informal setting (Shag's back yard). Pictured below: Top row, L to R: Mark Shalhoub '86, Charles Grenier '78 (President) and Pawel Morawski '81. Second row: Jeff Clarke '81, Matt Eramian '98 and Serge Bouharevich '70. Bottom row: Matt Rooney '97, Pierre Shousha '78, Paul Fortin '68 (Treasurer), Derek Dolan '97, Ed Piro '99, Scott Phelan '70, Chris Phelan '67, Matt Marilley '81, Peter Shea '61, Jim Newman '60, Ray Spruzenieks '78 and Charlie Dunsby '86. Missing from Photo: Pino Di Ioia '86 (Vice-President), Paul Vanasse '56 (Legal Counsel), Al Deschamps '94, Frank Di Stefano '85, Per Nyberg '87 and Richard Pawulski '77. 

The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the "Alumnus of the Year" award to Treasurer, Paul Fortin. Paul has served the Association as Treasurer since its inception (he was also one of the founding Directors) and his skill in all things financial has enabled the Association to meet its obligations. More than this, Paul's quiet demeanor (sprinkled with sound insight and a touch of humor) has been a key element in the workings of this dynamic group. His sage advice and altruistic attitude have swayed many a discussion in a positive direction. Moreover, he has been a force in the CSP activities of the Association - always willing to participate in, and help organize these events. Congratulations to a "Man for Others".

Permanent Bursary

About five years ago the LHSAA decided to sponsor a Permanent Bursary in the name of all alumni. The cost of this bursary is $110,000. By the end of this year, we will have contributed just over $100,000. Monies received at the beer bash auctions are the source of this amount (if anybody wants to "top it up", let Shag know. Otherwise we will pay it off next year). We thank, once again, all alumni who have contributed items to our silent and live auctions over the years and look forward to many more years of having alumni come back to the school to celebrate reunions and help us be a vital link in continuing the traditions of the school.

Obituaries of Note

Roger Abbott '63

Part of what Donat Taddeo '63 wrote:  "All the tributes to Roger came down to one simple thing, Roger was a good and decent person, respectful of others, never took himself for someone else, and was always ready to help. As Don Ferguson was giving his tribute and reflecting on this as well, all I could think about were the days we all spent together at Loyola High School and how we all managed to respect and relate to one another, no matter our backgrounds or what part of town we lived in. What a tribute to the Jesuits and to the lay staff at the High School for successfully instilling those fundamental principles in us during our formative years in a lasting and meaningful way! I guess that is why our friendships are so solid and genuine and why it hurts to lose Roger. But let us take solace in the fact that he had a great life, a great career, was loved by his family, by his personal and professional friends and that above all - as all the speakers testified - he was truly a Man for Others. God Bless Roger and may he rest in peace."

 Art Wickham, '45

Art was one of the founding members of the LHS Alumni Association. Over the years, he has been the Alumni historian, painstakingly cataloguing minutes of meetings, helping to update the constitution, and being a source of information on all that pertains to the Loyola identity. This was right up his alley for Art was a respected Notary in Montreal since he graduated from McGill back in the early fifties. Art was admired for his ability to put people at ease and his unassuming manner which made everyone feel an equal participant in any discussion. Last summer he was named Alumnus of the Year by the LHS Alumni Association. On April 5th, 2011, Art died peacefully at the Palliative Care Centre in St-Jean-sur-Richelieu. We acknowledge him for his years of service and wish him "God speed".

 Fr. E McKenna, S.J.

Father Emmett McKenna died peacefully on May 1, 2011 in Pickering. Father was a teacher and Student Counselor at Loyola in the early sixties. In 1967 he went to St. Paul's School in Winnipeg where he spent the next ten years, including three as Principal. In the eighties he worked at the Manresa Retreat House and the Martyrs' Shrine in Midland. In the nineties, he was the Director of the La Storta Infirmary and later became its Chaplain until 2007. May he rest in peace.

Larry Cullen, '57

This summer Larry Cullen '57 passed away. Larry starred on Loyola's football teams, served in Vietnam with the Marines and was involved in diverse activities from teaching, to being a stockbroker, to working in the Hollywood film industry, before becoming a computer programmer. Perhaps Larry's greatest gift was friendship and his great respect for others. On Sept. 17th, six members of the Loyola College 1962 Championship football team (pictured below: Bernie Young '60, Rick McConomy '61, Jim Newman '60, Mike Kostin '59, Peter Shea '61 and Peter Howlett '59) gathered to commemorate his life and the recent passing of two other team mates, Bob Bourgeault and Murray Orlando '59. A fiftieth reunion is planned for the autumn of 2012.