Anna (Novak) Madison '09 was the middle child, with six older and six younger siblings, which mirrored the way she was centered in the life of our family. Although she had Cystic Fibrosis (CF), Anna intentionally lived beyond her diagnosis and refused to limit her life to her illness. She graduated from the College of St. Benedict with a degree in Elementary Education, completed student teaching, and received her teaching license from the State of Minnesota. She was a strong, independent, sassy, and joyful young woman who decided that-- for her-- CF would stand for "Courage over Fear". She lived bravely until her death in 2014 at the age of 23, leaving behind a legacy for her family to continue.

Throughout her life, Arlene Zeithamer championed access and investment in quality education for her 4 children and others in the community with unwavering commitment to their academic and life success serving as a guiding light, inspiring others to similarly prioritize the pursuit of knowledge and learning. She furthered this by giving in her community through 4-H as a leader teaching kids new and practical life skills. In honor of Arlene's memory, we provide this CRCSA scholarship to further the access and enablement to quality education.

Barb (Johnson) Conrad died in December 2023 after a two year battle with pancreatic cancer. Barb was a firm believer in education and was an educational assistant for over 20 years with District 281 in the ECFE program. She cherished every moment helping those parents and their children getting ready for their next phase of formal schooling. She is deeply missed and remembered by her husband, Steve '79, son Andy (Annalisa), daughter Kelsey (Joel) and grandson James Conrad along with brother-in-law Scott '80, late brother-in-law Jeff' '83, and sister-in-law Jenny '87.

Betty Cipperly was the Office Manager for Dr. Kottemann Orthodontics for more than 30 years. Betty was a huge supporter of the DECA program. She hired many students over the years through the CRHS DECA Program. Betty and her husband, Larry, had 3 children who were CRHS graduates in the early 80’s along with 3 grandchildren who were CRHS graduates.

This scholarship is given in memory of my dad, Bill Megarry, who encouraged me to be curious and to value my education. He and my mom worked hard to put my sister and me through college before he died suddenly in 1993. With our degrees, we became what he'd always hoped for us: independent and capable of making our own choices in life. I know Dad would be thrilled to know that his memory continues to inspire others to pursue their post-secondary plans. Heather (Megarry) Traeger

Billy Harper '10 was a gifted athlete, honor student, and known for his terrific smile. Sadly, Billy passed away too soon at age 19 while a student at the University of Minnesota – Duluth. A Legacy scholarship was created in his name by his loved ones.

Brady McClain '12 excelled in STEP or Secondary Technical Education Program. Sadly, Brady passed away in 2016. His family generously funds a scholarship with CRCSA to honor Brady and benefit students interested in furthering their education. He is remembered by parents John Lom & Kelly McClain, classes of 1987 & 1992, and sister Samantha Lom (2020).

Bruce Frank was a long time resident of Coon Rapids and was very involved in the community through the years making a difference in many lives and organizations. The Coon Rapids Community Scholarship Association stands on the shoulders of those who came before us. One such pillar and stalwart of the organization is our late friend and long-time CRCSA member, Bruce Frank, who passed away in 2018. With thoughtful planning and a strong desire to help make the world a better place, Bruce, in his estate planning, directed gifts to his favorite charities – one of which was CRCSA. He is remembered also by Nancy, David, Jill and Mike Goldstein

Pam and Carl Finney were highly involved in support for performing arts and education in the Coon Rapids community. They did extensive volunteering and were supportive of the Coon Rapids Middle School and High School music program and extracurricular outlets. Both within and outside of the performing arts sphere, Pam and Carl remained active mentors in the Coon Rapids community to many under-privileged youth and young adults throughout their lives. Remembered by son Mike Finney '10.

Darlene and Edward Landrus were married in 1958 and raised 7 children in District 11 schools. All 7 of their kids graduated from Coon Rapids High School. The family has been very involved in the Coon Rapids Community; including, but not limited to CRAA, boy scouts, girl scouts, Izaac Walton League, CRCSA, substitute teaching, volunteering and working in the community. Remembered by the Landrus family.

Dick Casey, along with his wife Kathie, became aware of CRCSA in the early 1990's and thus began their great and lasting contributions to the CRHS community. Being parents of three daughters in the school system, they were on board for many years of commitment. Dick was active in CRCSA for over two decades, always with an eye toward streamlining the qualification process and criteria. He became the architect of the "Casey Method" which the association uses to this day. Dick passed away in 2020 and the family knew they needed to honor his memory with a scholarship that can impact students at CRHS now, and into the future. Dick was always quick with a joke and quicker with a hug, he was a light that attracted everyone he encountered and that will never dim. He was rarely without a twinkle in his eye, a mischievous grin, and more than occasional shenanigans on his mind. He is remembered by his wife, Kathie, and daughters Andrea '95, Erin '97 and Meghan '99.

Duane and JoAnne Hammargren raised their 5 children in Coon Rapids, all of whom graduated from CRHS. The family was actively incolved in the community through sports, ownership of the local drug store and volunterrism. They emphasized the importance of education, which transferred to their grandchildren, 6 of whom also graduated from CRHS.

Edith Fraser was a media specialist/librarian at Coon Rapids High School from 1966 to 1990. A plaque in her memory is located at the entrance of the Library Media Center. Each year, a scholarship is given in her memory.

Elizabeth 'Liz' Helm was born on a farm in 1928 in northern Illinois. Liz attended school in the one-room schoolhouse that sat on the corner of their farm. Liz LOVED school. She would always work on the homework assigned to all grade levels, not just her own. Consequently, she was able to move on to high school 'in town' a little early. After graduating from high school, Liz attended Northern Illinois University, earning a degree in Education. She started teaching English and Gym at Sandwich, Illinois High School. During that time, Liz met a young pipeline engineer named Bill at a local diner. She left her teaching job to raise a family. In the mid-1960's, with her children in school, Liz returned to an educator role in Anoka County serving the Special Needs community. This was well before the mainstreaming of special needs children in the Anoka-Hennepin School District system. She served in this role until her retirement. When her husband, Bill, passed in 1978, Liz took an active role in the CRCSA. Liz established the R. W. "Bill" Helm scholarship that continues to this day. Liz passed on December 7th, 2009; Pearl Harbor day, the anniversary of a day that very much defined her generation. Her family honors her, and her devotion to education with this scholarship.

Eric Hyland '81 was on the debate team. He followed the love of debate to Lewis and Clark College in Portland, OR where he graduated in 1985 with a major in International Relations. Eric was a lobbyist by profession most recently starting his own business Eric Hyland Government Affairs. Eric cherished his many friends and business cohorts whom were an integral part of his life. Eric was a lifelong learner which led to his love of collecting. His love of golf, hunting, fishing and travel consumed him. He was a great son, brother and uncle whom always tried to put family first.

Geri Pedersen graduated from Hill Murray High School in 1977 and obtained a bachelor's degree in Social Work from the College of St. Thomas. She worked as a probation officer with the Adult Division, Ramsey County until retiring in 2019 after 37 years. She married her husband Glenn in 1990 and they had 2 sons; Jake Pedersen '11 and Luke Pedersen '13. Geri enjoyed Minnesota, the change of seasons-skiing & snowmobiling in the winter, boating and hiking in the summer. She enjoyed reading but her main passion was her boys-she absolutely loved them!

Howard Kortmeyer was a longtime guidance counselor at Coon Rapids High School. He started when the high school opened in 1964 and retired in 1987. In 1966, he founded the Coon Rapids Community Scholarship Association and the first 24 scholarships were awarded to CRHS students for a total of $4,010. After retiring in 1987, Howard continued as an active member of CRCSA until his death in 2013. We are all honored to have a great role model in our lives.

"Jackie (Johnston) was a graduate of Coon Rapids High School – Class of 1973. Her dedication and insistence for post-secondary education for her own children
prompted this scholarship opportunity for other students. Having many family members that served in the military, she dedicated time and money to help
veterans and their children through the organization ‘2 Wheels 4 Heroes’ to ease the cost of post-secondary education. Jackie’s memory will be preserved
through this scholarship."

Jim Law has left a long legacy at Coon Rapids High School. Six of his seven children were members of the Coon Rapids Swim Team as a swimmer or manager. Three of his children coached swimming at Coon Rapids, with son Jamie leading the boys and girls teams for over a decade. Jim's grandchildren stayed connected to the program with his granddaughter swimming and grandson coaching at Coon Rapids. Jim also became a swimming referee for the Minnesota State High School League, frequently working local competitions to stay connected to the Coon Rapids community. Anyone who knew him, knew his kind smile and laughter. His sons Jamie, Ian, Alan, and David have contributed to this scholarship on his behalf for many years to honor their father.

Jim Matison grew up in Austin, MN. He graduated high school and married his junior high sweetheart, Janice, in 1961. His family moved to Fridley and Anoka-Hennepin schools in 1972. Jim spent 30 years teaching junior high and high school English in Minneapolis. Jim was a firm believer in the importance and value of both public and higher education. Both of Jim's daughters followed in their father's footsteps and became public school teachers. He is remembered by his wife Janice and daughters Amy (Matison) Besonen '79 & Sarah (Matison) Kanotola '80

Joe Miller '79 died in a tragic accident in 2008. He is remembered by his wife, Cindi (Landrus) '79, and their children Johnathan '10 and Hannah '12; they hope that everyone remembers his generous spirit, hardworking attitude, deep humor and love of Hawaii.

John H. Koffski was one of the founding members of CRCSA. Alongside Howard Kortmeyer, they volunteered their efforts to raise scholarship funds for graduating seniors at CRHS. John served this country when he was called into active service from the National Guard. He was deployed to Korea and then Japan. He served to support veteran families in need through fundraising efforts over a lifetime. He loved nature and volunteered to clear trails for the parks in the Boundary Waters. He served so many in so many ways. John loved his family and a lifetime legacy has unfolded and lives on through 7 children, 13 grandchildren, and 18 great-grandchildren. Remembered by Clarice, John, Sue, Al, Debbie & Zach Koffski, Zac & Ashley Gerard (Alumni)

John Saboe valued education and the opportunity it provides to feed our curiosities throughout our lifetime. Upon graduating from high school, John very much wanted to earn a college degree, but had very little money to do so. He spent the next 6 years going to junior college, working on riverboats, and joining the Navy before earning his degree from the University of Minnesota. Working so hard and still struggling to pay for his education made John a lifelong believer that money shouldn't be a determining factor in continuing education, Through financial scholarships, he strived to support students who work hard and want to continue to learn and grow as humans.

If anyone understood the power of education, it was Julie. She graduated from CRHS with honors, was a stellar hockey player and school mascot. But her high school accomplishments didn't define her. Julie started her journey post high school by getting an architectural drafting degree. Unfortunately, it was during the 2008 recession she struggled to find a job, so she decided to go back to school to get carpentry, mason and construction management degrees.Julie really enjoyed working as a bricklayer. Sadly, she suffered a traumatic brain injury that forced her out of this career. She turned back to education. Julie went back to school to become an EEG technician. She went on to work at both the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor and the Mayo Clinic. All through her young adult life, Julie struggled with mental illness.She used her experiences with mental illness to help others in their struggles. She was very involved in Save Suicide Awareness, Voices of education. Julie ultimately lost her life to her mental illness in September of 2021. She was an amazing daughter, sister, aunt, friend and advocate for mental health.Julie understood the power of education for both your career and passions, but also for how it can help other people. Julie is remembered by her family. "Today is a milestone. It tells how far you've come. Keep learning, keep trying, keep accomplishing, and keep venturing through your journey." - Unknown.

Katherine (Kate) graduated from Coon Rapids in 1988 and received degrees from New York University, Univeristy of Minnesota and completed the Physicians Assistant program at Yale Medical School in 2001. She was hired by Mayo Clinic in Rochester Minnesota that same year and was instrumental in developing the PA program there for over 20 years. She earned the Karis Award, the Spirit of the Clinic Award, Nurse Practitioner/ Physician Assitant Educator of the Year, and the Mayo Model of Care Award. She served as course director and co-creator of the Hospital Medicine Simulation-Based Boot Camp for Nurse Practitioners and Physician Assistants, attended by more than 350 NP/PAs. She was also part of an NP/PA team that earned a Department of Medicine Innovation grant to develop a portable simulation-based training program and partnered with Winona State University to teach simulation-based education as part of their nurse practitioner program. As much as she valued her work, she also valued her family, friends and adventure. She traveled to 53 countries!

Kathy (Hammargren) Lovik '81 and her husband Tom Lovik '81 were high school sweethearts. Their four children Abby '09, Hank '16, Ava '17, and Louis '19 are also CRHS grads. Kathy and Tom also had siblings and nieces that graduated from CRHS. Kathy enjoyed volunteering at church, watching her kids’ sporting events, cooking for her family, time at their cabin and their dogs. Writing was one of Kathy’s passions which took her into a career as a Director of Corporate Communications for the Tennant Company. People with special needs and disabilities have been a big part of her life. The teachers that were involved with her daughter, Abby, were wonderful and the family wants the next generation to be strong. Sadly, Kathy died on June 6th, 2022. Her husband, Tom, along with their daughters, Ava Lovik and Abby (Lovik) Cassidy, proudly present scholarships in her memory.

Kelly (Dye) Andersen '77 was born in 1959 in Minneapolis. She obtained a degree in Education from Bethel and later a Master's in Education from the University of Minnesota. She taught for 5 years in Montana and then for over 30 years in the Anoka Hennepin school district. Without a scholarship and other aid she received, Kelly could never have pursued her lifelong dream of becoming a teacher. She taught for almost four decades at the elementary school level.

Ken Sunstrom was an advocate and staunch supporter of young people-as a dad, teacher and coach. His strong morals, infectious optimism and unwavering loyalty have influenced many lives. He was a member of the Coon Rapids community for over 65 years. He spent his entire teaching career in Anoka Hennipen schools and was the first varsity baseball coach at CRHS. His legacy persists in the Coon Rapids community today through the baseball team's continued success and his steadfast support of college bound CRHS students. He is remembered by many and missed terribly. Remembered by Pat Sundstrom and family.

Laurie Brown '80 died in 2010 after a courageous 3 year battle with pancreatic cancer. Laurie was a leader of a group of CR distance runners who started the tradition of excellence in girls cross country. While not the most naturally gifted runner, through drive and determination, she led the 1979 team that placed 5th in the State meet – the highest finish ever for a Coon Rapids team. Laurie is remembered by her husband, Robert Fox, and her two children, Duncan and Erika.

Lee passed away unexpectedly at the age of 38. Lee was born and raised in Coon Rapids, MN and graduated from Coon Rapids High School in 2002. He was active in sports, especially football and baseball. He was a devoted Minnesota Vikings fan even though he had a love/hate relationship with the team. Lee attended the University of Minnesota Duluth. He was employed with Lowe’s for 14 years, the last two years as Store Manager in Maple Grove. Lee had build his dream home in Blaine and was working on finishing a few things when he passed away. He loved his family, friends and his dog and loyal companion for 14 years Gizmo.

Lewis Peterson was a long-time Assistant Principal at Coon Rapids High School. He was very active in the community and was a friend to many. If he wasn't going to a committee meeting or volunteering in the community, he was recruiting you to serve for one of his causes. He was fiercely competitive in sports and games, always had 4 or 5 books next to his nightstand, enjoyed playing cards and doing crossword puzzles. Music and singing in the church choir played a large part in his life. He is missed, but fondly remembered by his friends and family.

Loren Hedman grew up in Southwestern Minnesota. His education began in a one room schoolhouse. After graduation, he farmed the family dairy farm until age 25 when he moved to Minneapolis. It is there where Loren met Cheryl, who he was married to for 54 years. They raised two children and were blessed with three grandchildren, two of which graduated from Coon Rapids High School and received scholarships through CRCSA. His family was very important to him. Loren passed away in May of 2023. He always wished he had gone to college or a trade school so we honor him with this scholarship.

Mary T’s mother and co-founder of Mary T Inc. She lived to be 100 years and 36 days. She was an inspiration to many and was involved in humanitarian work in many countries. She continued the work of her own mother in caring for seniors and people with disabilities in Coon Rapids through her many years as a founder, mentor and leader at Mary T Inc. Her life was committed to making a difference and she certainly did so!

Mark Lodge grew up a proud Johnson High School 'Governor' and developed a strong passion for sports early on that would shape the rest of his life. Mark taught history and geography at St. Francis ISD #15 for 36 years. He coached boys high school hockey in addition to Coon Rapids Little League and traveling baseball. He officiated hockey, football, softball and volleyball for the MN State High School League for over 40 years. He was very proud to have officiated over 6,000 hockey games in his lifetime. He played hockey with friends in a recreational league until he was 65 years old. He carried a deep love for history throughout his life. He spent many years collecting and restoring antique outboard motors and was active in the National Antique Outboard Motor Club for decades. Recently, he worked hard on a project archiving the history of Johnson High School Hockey. He also was on the reunion committee for his Johnson High School Class of 1970. Fellow referees and athletes he coached described him as a mentor, leader, friend, and a "class act."

Marlyce Dorff was a dedicated teacher at Coon Rapids High School for over 30 years – first as a full-time business teacher and then, in her later years, as a substitute. In addition to a life focused on education, she was a voracious reader and enjoyed an enduring zest for travel, both domestically as well as internationally. Marlyce always had a special affinity for Coon Rapids High School and was a long time supporter of the Scholarship Fund. Her children, Scott Dorff '75, Stacy (Dorff) Randall '79, and Stephanie (Dorff) Libis, take great pride in providing this scholarship, and establishing a perpetual Legacy Scholarship in Marlyce’s honor, with best wishes to this year’s recipient as well as to those recipients in future classes.

Marlyn Hyland dedicated his life to teaching and coaching. A 45-year career in education began in NE and lead to a 4-decade tenure with the Anoka-Hennepin school district. He taught and coached at CRHS from 1970-1994. Marlyn loved teaching chemistry and earth science, but his true love was coaching. He coached Cardinal wrestling and women's fastpitch. He was part of the brand-new coaching staff for the fastpitch team that won the first State tournament and CRHS's first team cahmpionship in any sport (girls or boys!). Those successful Cardinal wrestling and fastpitch teams earned him induction into the Minnesota coaches' hall of fames in both sports. A resident of Coon Rapids over 50 years, he was a great fan of all CRHS sports well into his retirement years. Marlyn passed away in January of 2023. Father to Eric Hyland '81 and Amy (Hyland) Baretz

Mikayla Peters was a Coon Rapids High School student that loved music. She sadly passed away way too soon. Nancy Henry-Socha and Dave Socha, and the Socha family, who are good friends of Mikayla and her family, generously support and joined CRCSA to fund the “Socha Family Scholarship in Memory of Mikayla Peters.” '13

Remembered by Coon Rapids Baseball Rec League. Paul Perez was a long-time coach and referee in the Coon Rapids Athletic Association. Paul died in 2014 at the age of 59. His wife, Dawn, and their children, Valerie, Paul, and Stacey were long time Coon Rapids residents and actively involved in the community.

Peter Rothstein was anchored in his family and his faith. He became legally blind during adulthood. Though he could no longer drive, he did not let it stop him from living life, supporting his family, and serving in both his church and as an adult leader in the Scouting program. When Peter attended school, he wanted to study art but his father made him take a "practical" path with accounting. He shared that experience with his own kids and always supported them in the educational pursuits they chose for themselves. He bravely faced cancer, showing remarkable courage and resilience. Peter is remembered by wife Cindy and children Aaron (Alumni), Sarah (Alumni), and David (Alumni).

R.W. 'Bill' Helm was born in a small town in 1922 in southern Illinois. After becoming an orphan at the age of 11 and being shuttled back and forth between his much older siblings, Bill managed to graduate from high school. Around 1940, Bill made his way to San Diego, CA and began wotking for Hughes Consolidated Aircraft. He worked on a defense project building PBY Bomber aircraft for the US Navy. On Monday, December 8, 1941 Bill stood in line at a US Navy recruiting office, only to be told he was deferred as he was building critical defense aircraft at Hughes. Bill persisted and was allowed to enlist in the Navy in mid January of 1942 on the condition that he serve on the aircraft type he worked on building. Bill saw combat duty in the south pacific for the duration of WWII. He served in the Caroline Islands and the Battle of Guadalcanal. Most of Bill's Squadron were lost at Guadalcanal but Bill's plane, his crewmates and himself survived. Bill returned home after the war and untilizing his hard-earned GI bill studied Engineering at the University of Missouri, at Rolla. After earning his degree, Bill worked on various engineering projects. While working on the Illinois Pipeling project, he met his future wife, Liz, at a small diner in Sandwich, Illinois. During his career he worked on many defense contracts eventually ending up at Cornelius Company as Director of Quality Control which brought Bill and his family to Coon Rapids. Bill passed in 1978. The R. W. 'Bill' Helm Scholarship was started by his wife, Elizabeth 'Liz' Helm, in his honor and is carried on today.

Remembered by Alex, Michael, Ron & Jane Stuedemann; Ray Koester - grandfather who passed away in 2004 Ann Stuedemann - grandmother who passed away in 2012.

Shirley and Merrill Golliet were a loving, generous,and hard-working couple whose faith was very important to them and their family. Merrill retired from Diebold, and Shirley was a long-time employee of Anoka Hennepin School District where she cheerfully greeted all at L.O. Jacob Elementary School every day. They are lovingly remembered by their family, many of whom are Coon Rapids High School Alumni.

Sue Scott '76 graduated from St. Cloud University in '81. She was a marketing professional in the hearing industry for many years. Enjoyed downhill skiing and cooking with family, especially for Sunday family dinners. Sue always remained close with her high school friends and had many other cherished friendships.

Tami Bayer was a teacher in the Anoka-Hennepin District for 22 years; the last 18 as an admired and respected second grade teacher at Hoover Elementary in Coon Rapids. Sadly, Tami passed away in 2017, at the age of 45. Her friends, family, and co-workers set up this memorial scholarship in her name, to be given to a student(s) each year from her 2nd grade classroom, over the next 9 years.

Tell and Wanda Yelle were residents of the community for nearly six decades, raising five boys, who all graduated from Coon Rapids High School. Tell, a WWII veteran was one the initial recruits of the CIA, who employed him until his retirement in the 1990s. Wanda was a homemaker when the family was young then took a job in the biology department at Anoka-Ramsey Community College. Tell coached in the American Little League program for a short period and also coached hockey over several years in the Coon Rapids Youth Hockey Association. Tell and Wanda Yelle’s five sons all played high school football at Coon Rapids and four of the five played hockey for the Cardinals. In addition, three of the five played championship-level baseball for Coon Rapids High School. While her boys worked their way through these programs and school, Wanda served as a Coon Rapids Community Scholarship Association board and continued to do so after the graduation of youngest son Paul in the mid 1980s for another 25-plus years. She stepped down from the position around the time her last grandchild graduated from Coon Rapids High School.

Ron Burgess, a Korean War veteran, who grew up playing baseball in Fargo, N.D. with Roger Maris and his brother, raised five girls with his wife Elaine in Coon Rapids over period greater than 40 years. All five girls graduated from Coon Rapids High School as did 10 grandchildren. Ron was was a painter and painting contractor, while his wife Elaine taught school at Northdale (Sorteberg) Elementary before becoming the longtime principal at L.O. Jacob Elementary.

Thomas Kluck had a dedicated career in the mental health field after recieving his bachelors in Psychology from Minnesota State Mankato and his masters in Forensic Psychology from Arizona State University. In addition to his career of service, he also happily volunteered as a lifting coach at the local high school near his home.Thomas died unexpectedly in October of 2023. He enjoyed all things Halloween and could be found powerlifting, reading pholisophy and listening to heavy metal in his spare time. He loved and was loved by his wife Andrea and their son Bennett. Thomas is remembered by his wife, Andrea.

Tom Corneil grew up a Willmar 'Cardinal' and would be honored to have a scholarship in his name given to a Coon Rapids 'Cardinal'. He lived life to the fullest and had a tremendous impact on those around him. In high school he excelled in academics, athletics, music, and extracurriculars. He was an active volunteer in his community and was known for his love of sports, positivity, and humor. His family is grateful to be able to honor his legacy through this scholarship.