The Alumni Achievement Committee of Riverside-Brookfield High School has announced the names of the recipients of the award for 2005, a group of alumni of the school who have distinguished themselves in various fields of endeavor.
Jack Hagan, a graduate of the class of 1949, has been a successful businessman, community leader and volunteer. Among his accomplishments, Hagan established a presentation on business issues which was given to students at RB and other area high schools.
While living in LaGrange he was involved with the LaGrange Citizen Council, served on the park district board and as a village trustee. Currently living in Western Springs, Hagan continues his work with volunteer projects. Hagan maintains in contact with his fellow class of 1949 graduates by serving on reunion committees and an annual meeting held in Arizona.
Barbara Reinmann graduated from RB in 1965. She began her career with Crate and Barrel stores 30 years ago in the area of sales, and is presently the senior vice president of operations with the company, which now has stores nationwide.
Reinmann is credited by her fellow employees for her mentoring skills as well as being a great businesswoman. She keeps up with activities at RB through her nieces and nephews who attend the school.
Joseph Tucek of the class of 1948 served in the United States Army during the Korean War and received the Silver Star for gallantry. As a sergeant, he subjected himself to machine gun and sniper fire in an effort to protect his platoon. His heroic efforts resulted in the safe withdrawal of his men.
Tucek received an honorable discharge and returned to civilian life. He and his wife raised five children. He has also volunteered as a coach for his children’s sports teams and has been an active member of his church.
Michael Witwer, M.D., a graduate of the class of 1959 is an Infectious Disease consultant for the State of California. His interest in medicine was sparked while he was a student at RB and was a member of the Bios Logos Club.
He earned a degree in medicine from Northwestern University and, following graduation, became a member of the U.S. Naval Reserve, serving in Vietnam, where he earned A Combat “V” Device Award from the U.S. Marines for contributions during combat and efforts in Vietnamese villages.
He received severe injuries while in Vietnam, resulting in his being evacuated from the war zone. Dr. Witwer continues his work in the area of infectious diseases and AIDS and contributes his time to various charitable venues, including those in underdeveloped nations. Despite injuries to his leg, Witwer has participated in 106 marathons in the United States and abroad.
An Alumni Achievement Dinner will be held on Thursday, Oct. 20 to honor the recipients. The price of the dinner is $40. For more information contact Riverside-Brookfield High School at 442-7500.
