(Le Mars) — The Friends of Gehlen Ball were able to raise $265,858.40 for the local Catholic school during the 30th year for the special event that was held Saturday evening at the Le Mars Convention Center. “Generations of Excellence” was portrayed by the Nemmers family, who have had four generations attend either the former St. Joseph Catholic school, or the current Gehlen Catholic School. During the course of the 30 years, the Gehlen Ball has raised $4,198,404.37. A large check was presented by former chairs of the Friends of Gehlen Ball.
The Peter J. Gehlen Spirit Award was given to two recipients. Stan and Bonnie Meyer of rural Ireton was presented with the honor by Father Kevin Richter. The Meyers received a thunderous applause and standing ovation when their names were mentioned as the recipients. After Father Richter presented the award to the Meyers, Gehlen Ball co-chair Jeff Arens informed the gathering of a second deserving recipient for the annual award. It was apparent to everyone in the upper level of the Le Mars Convention Center shortly after Jeff Arens began explaining the many accomplishments achieved by the individual that he was speaking of the popular priest and Gehlen Catholic president, Father Kevin Richter. Both the Meyers and Richter were surprised by the recognition and honor, and all were humbled. In accepting the award, Bonnie Meyer told the crowd that “prayers really do work.” The Meyers have been supportive of many of Gehlen activities, but mostly have remained “behind the scenes” and are the unsung heroes of Gehlen Catholic. The Meyers have volunteered to sell Football Mania raffle tickets, work in the concession stands, making telephone calls for the Gehlen Ball, prom, and more, as well as their continued service in the parish and community. The Meyers have had a challenging year as their daughter Emily, currently a sophomore at Iowa State University, was a victim of a tragic auto accident that happened in June of 2016. Immediately, following the accident, Emily was unable to walk, but with the thanks of prayers, hard work, and determination with her physical therapy, today, Emily is able to walk unassisted.
Father Richter said there will always be a special place in his heart for Gehlen Catholic, and the town of Le Mars. He spoke of wearing a green colored jacket with the Gehlen logo featured, and was approached by an individual and asked if he would be getting rid of the jacket, now that he will be moving to Carroll, Iowa, and will be associated with Carroll Kemper Catholic School. Father Richter informed that individual and told the gathering at the Gehlen Ball, “Absolutely Not!”
Father Richter was joined on stage with his sisters and brothers, and their families.
