In Memoriam
- Sue Conrad
- Dr. Daniel G. Williams '70
- Michael Wielgopolski '78
- David J. Walrod '64
- Stephen J. Kennedy '78
- Nicholas G. Iorio '95
- Walter R. Edwards '69
- Salvatore W. Pinardo '19
- David R. Snell
- Dr. Marshall D. Nickerson '58
- Jeffrey Patterson
- James P. O'Connell '04
- William J. O'Neal
- Judy Dettinger
- Theresa Emrick
- Fran O'Neal
- David M. Walrod '88
Sue Conrad
Sue Conrad
October 24, 1933 - August 16, 2024
With heavy hearts lifted by the Resurrection, St. Francis de Sales School announces the passing of Mrs. Sue Conrad.
Sue began her decades of service to SFS during the 1975-76 school year, giving lectures on human sex and sexuality to seniors. A registered nurse, she educated thousands of young people in the Toledo area in her course, lovingly referred to as “Sex with Sue.”
“If ever there was a woman who could be a true Knight, it was Sue,” said Rev. Ronald Olszewski, OSFS ’62, past SFS principal and president.
With her incisive wit and deep knowledge, Sue rattled off stories and insights honed from years of lived experience. As a long-time fixture on the faculty, it wasn’t unusual for Sue to have taught the sons of students she had decades earlier. Her love of SFS was evident, and she never truly retired from the institution, remaining present at events up through the past year.
“I have had the honor and privilege in helping parents develop solid young men who embody Christian values regardless of their chosen vocation or career path,” Sue said in 2017.
“Throughout the years I have watched SFS create men of integrity, men of service, and men who go beyond our doors to make a difference as workers, citizens, husbands, and fathers,” she said. “It is imperative that this work and ministry remains alive.”
In recognition of her legacy, SFS awarded Sue the Service Award during the 2012 Hall of Fame banquet. The award is the highest honor presented to a non-graduate of St. Francis who, through their generosity, involvement, and service, has made a significant impact on the school.
She previously received the Diamond Eagle Award from her alma mater, Notre Dame Academy, from which she graduated in 1951, and is also in the NDA Hall of Fame.
Donations in her memory will be added to the Edward and Suzanne Conrad Scholarship Fund
Dr. Daniel G. Williams '70
Daniel G. Williams '70
January 25, 1952 - May 20, 2004
Family, friends, classmates, and the St. Francis de Sales School Community pay tribute to the legacy of Dr. Daniel G. Williams for his compassion, kindness, and friendship. Dr. Williams left a mark on the medical community in Toledo and surrounding areas for his dedication to serving those in need and his genuine concern for his patients, serving as the chief of staff at St. Luke’s Hospital from 2004-2006.
Dan attended Saint Jude Grade School and St. Francis de Sales High School, where he participated in football, intramurals, the Glee Club, and the German Club. He attended the University of Toledo and the University of Cincinnati Medical College, graduating in 1982.
In honor of Dr. Williams, the family has requested donations to the St. Francis de Sales High School Foundation, Toledo, Ohio. Please select “I want my gift to recognize" and include the name of Dr. Daniel G. Williams so that we may share your generous tribute with Dr. William’s family.
Michael Wielgopolski '78
Michael Wielgopolski '78
1960 - March 8, 2024
Michael (“Mike”, or “Wiggles”) grew up in Bancroft Hills and attended Gesu School, St. Francis de Sales School, the University of Detroit, and Notre Dame. Mike returned to St. Francis in 1997, teaching courses in Latin, religion, and history until 2019 when he and his wife, Mary Beth, moved to Baltimore to be near family.
Mike was a challenging teacher, a compassionate friend, and a beloved classmate. He loved his wife, his family, the Detroit Lions, and the Catholic Church. Mike’s love for Jesus, in the Salesian tradition, informed his love for his students. He once wrote:
"Against his father's wishes, Francis became a priest who was known for his humility, optimism, and gentleness. As a Salesian school, we too are called to live out these virtues that truly set us apart from the secular world. I can hope for nothing better for my students than that they be known as Jesus' disciples."
At the suggestion of Mike’s wife and family, memorial gifts can be made for scholarships to the St. Francis de Sales High School Foundation.
David J. Walrod '64
David J. Walrod '64
December 9, 1946 - August 29, 2023
David J. Walrod was a beloved member of the St. Francis de Sales School community. His deep commitment to our school and his support over the years have left a mark on our institution.
David dedicated 40 years of his time and expertise to both the St. Francis de Sales School Board of Trustees and the Foundation Board. His dedication and passion for our school’s mission have made a lasting impact on many young men. One of David’s most cherished memories was the opportunity to deliver the commencement speech at a St. Francis graduation ceremony. He was also a Golden Knight recipient.
At the request of the Walrod family, memorial contributions can be made to the scholarship fund established in memory of his son, the David M. Walrod Memorial Scholarship, St. Francis de Sales High School Foundation.
Stephen J. Kennedy '78
Stephen J. Kennedy '78
1960 - June 24, 2023
The Kennedy family and St. Francis de Sales School Community are remembering the compassionate life of Stephen J. Kennedy and the impact he had on those around him. He will always be remembered for his kindness, curiosity, wonderful sense of humor, and his enjoyment of life.
Stephen's educational journey began at Gesu Elementary and St. Francis de Sales High School, where he graduated with honors in 1978. During his time at St. Francis, he participated in SFS musicals, intramural sports, and was a member of Collegium Honorum for all four years. After completing high school, Stephen pursued higher education at the University of Virgina, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree. He then went on to attend Harvard Law School, where he obtained his Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree.
In memory of Stephen, the family has suggested that individuals contribute to the St. Francis de Sales School Foundation in Toledo, Ohio. Donations made to the foundation will serve as a tribute to Stephen's life. If you wish to contribute, you can check the "I want my gift to recognize" box to indicate that your donation is in memory of Stephen.
Nicholas G. Iorio '95
Nick Iorio '95
February 11, 1977 - October 28, 1997
Nick Iorio was a scholar athlete who graduated from St. Francis de Sales High School in 1995. He was fun loving, a hard working student and athlete, and a believer in Christ who cared for other less fortunate people.
St. Francis helped to mold Nick into the wonderful young man he was. Throughout his four years at St. Francis he maintained excellent grades and participated in several sports with football always his passion. At graduation, he was awarded “The Athlete of the Year Award” and “The Oblate Award” given to the graduate who exemplifies the principles of St. Francis de Sales and the Oblates.
Those principles include excellence in academics, spiritual life and leadership. Unbeknownst too many, Nick was living with a mental health disorder which ultimately led to his death by suicide. At the time of his death, he was a 4.0 junior at Bowling Green State University in Bowling Green, Ohio. But, his heart always remained at St. Francis High School.
The Nick Iorio Scholarship is given in his memory to a junior student at St. Francis de
Sales who plays football , is a good student and who exhibits hard working qualities similar to Nick’s. The scholarship is to be used for the recipient’s senior year at St. Francis.
Walter R. Edwards '69
Walter R. Edwards '69
November 24, 1951 - June 6, 2022
The Edwards family and the St. Francis de Sales Community celebrate the life of Walter “Wally” Edwards. Wally was a proud alumnus of the Class of ’69 and continued to be devoted to his alma mater throughout the rest of his life.
Whether organizing golf tournaments, class reunions, or monthly hangouts, Wally was always working on ways to keep his classmates connected. He raised his three children on stories of the friendship and
love he shared with his St. Francis brothers.
Always one to end a phone call with “I love you brother”, calls and visits from the St. Francis Community strengthened and comforted Wally in his final days.
When Wally learned about students attending St. Francis who lacked access to food, he was deeply concerned and motivated to do something about it. In memory of his devotion to ensuring the best learning experience possible for all St. Francis students, the Edwards family kindly asks that contributions be made in memory of Wally to help feed students and families in need.
Please share your address and contact information on the contribution form so that the Edwards family may personally acknowledge your thoughtful contribution.
Salvatore W. Pinardo '19
Sal Pinardo '19
August 4, 2001 - December 18, 2021
The Pinardo family and the St. Francis de Sales Community thank you for your thoughts, prayers, and support. Sal was a beacon of light and faith to all that knew him. He will be deeply missed.
Sal graduated from St. Francis de Sales in 2019. Like his father, Rick ’95, Sal enjoyed participating in athletics, including football, basketball, and baseball. Sal enjoyed the competition of sport but more important to him was being a winner in life.
To honor Sal’s life, memorial contributions are being accepted through St. Francis de Sales School on behalf of the St. Francis de Sales Foundation for the Sal Pinardo Scholarship Fund. Scholarship support from the Fund will provide scholarship support to fellow Knights who lead with character, strength, and faith.
Please provide your address and contact information on the memorial contribution form so that the Pinardo family may personally acknowledge your contribution.
David R. Snell
Dave Snell
December 29, 1960 - December 26, 2021
The Family of Dave Snell and the St. Francis de Sales School community are celebrating the life and contributions of Robert “Dave” Snell.
Dave was an engaged member of the St. Francis de Sales Foundation and served as a Trustee on the St. Francis de Sales School. The SFS Community always looked forward to having Dave participate in our retreats and events for his encouragement, support, positivity, and wisdom. Dave’s sons, Drew ’04, Sean ’07, and Jay ’13 are graduates of St. Francis de Sales School.
As a tribute to Dave, the family has suggested contribution through the St. Francis de Sales School, Toledo OH for the benefit of the Snell Family Scholarship Fund.
Please share your address and contact information on the contribution form so that the Snell Family may personally acknowledge your memorial contribution.
Dr. Marshall D. Nickerson '58
Dr. Marshall D. Nickerson '58
The Nickerson family and the Francis de Sales Community are celebrating the life of Dr. Marshall D. Nickerson.
Dr. Nickerson was a member of the first graduating Class of 1958 and a lifetime member of St. Teresa Church, Toledo OH. Dr. Nickerson was the first African American to attend and graduate from St. Francis de Sales School.
He was known as an avid learner, positive influencer, and great classmate to all. He graduated with high honors, served as the Vice-President of his senior class, and participated in basketball, football, band, and drama.
Dr. Nickerson was proud to be an SFS Knight just as the St. Francis de Sales community is proud and honored to have him as a member of the SFS family.
Dr. Nickerson graduated from John Carroll in 1962 and Howard University Medical School in 1972 where he received his Doctor of Medicine. In his early years as a Research Assistant at Case Western Reserve, he was published in the American Journal of Experimental Molecular Biology, American Journal of Physiology, and several other professional periodicals.
He enjoyed traveling, being a father and grandfather, spectator sports, Jeopardy, jazz, and tutoring youth in math and science. His family acknowledges that Dr. Nickerson “set the example of family standard”.
To honor Dr. Nickerson’s memory and his affinity for St. Francis de Sale School, his family has suggested memorial contributions to St. Francis de Sales School, Toledo OH.
Please share your address and contact information on the contribution for so that the family may personally acknowledge your gracious contribution.
Jeffrey Patterson
Jeff Patterson
1961 - 2021
The Patterson family and St. Francis de Sales would like to thank you for your thoughts and prayers. The passing of Jeff is a difficult loss for his family and the St. Francis de Sales School community.
As the Director of Maintenance and Facilities, Jeff was an integral part of the school but he preferred not to be the center of attention. Jeff was a master craftsman that took great pride in his work and held himself to a high standard. He often worked on special projects for others but without any special fanfare or public acknowledgment.
It was often said that Jeff was the one person who kept the building operational on a shoestring budget due to his innovation and knowledgeable insight. Jeff was a kind and generous colleague; his presence is truly missed by all at St. Francis.
Many have asked what they can do to help during this difficult time. If you would like to make a memorial distribution in honor of Jeff, you may direct your gift to the St. Francis de Sales Office or make an online donation using the link below. All donations will be directed to Jeff’s wife, Terri, to benefit the family grandkids.
James P. O'Connell '04
James P. O'Connell '04
October 3, 1985 - February 20, 2021
The O’Connell family and St. Francis de Sales School Community are celebrating the life of James P. O’Connell (Liam), Class of 2004. James will always be remembered as a competitive, fun, and loving friend to all that knew him.
James was named First-Team, All-State Boys all four years at St. Francis and was also the State Doubles Champion in 2003 with his Cousin, Mike O’Connell ’05. James went on to play Division I Tennis at the University of Dayton, earning All-Atlantic Honors in years 2006-2008.
As a tribute to James, the family has suggested contributions through St. Francis de Sales School, Toledo, OH for the benefit of the Foundation,
Please share your address and contact information on the contribution form so that the O’Connell family may personally acknowledge your heartfelt contribution.
William J. O'Neal
Bill O'Neal
July 13, 1933 - October 29, 2020
Bill, like his wife Fran, had a passion for education, teaching and travel. Bill served the University of Toledo for 44 years, holding several positions, authored several publications, and received numerous awards. He was also a part-time Latin teacher at St. Francis teaching 4th year Latin to advanced students. In December of 2019, Bill established The Fran O’Neal Scholarship Fund to honor Fran’s love of English and Teaching and her devotion to him and her students. Fran taught at St. Francis de Sales for 25 years.
To honor Fran’s memory and their shared passion for teaching and education, Bill shared his wishes for memorial contributions to be made to The Fran O’Neal Scholarship Fund through the St. Francis de Sales School, Toledo OH.
Please share your address and contact information on the contribution form so that the O’Neal family may personally acknowledge your thoughtful contribution.
Judy Dettinger
Judy Dettinger
1946 - October 5, 2020
A Dettinger Family Scholarship Fund has been established at St. Francis de Sales School. The family asks that memorials in Judy’s name be given to the Dettinger Family Scholarship Fund. Judy was a beloved and patient wife, mother, and teacher. She had a special talent and interest in helping students with learning disabilities explore their individual talents and reach their goals.
In memory of Judy, contributions may be made through the St. Francis de Sales School for the Dettinger Family Scholarship Fund for the benefit of St. Francis de Sales School, Toledo OH.
Please share your address and contact information on the contribution form so that the Dettinger family may personally acknowledge your thoughtful contribution.
Theresa Emrick
Theresa Emrick
February 15, 1970 - March 3, 2020
The Emrick family and the St. Francis de Sales Faculty and Staff would like to thank you for your thoughts and prayers. The passing of Theresa Emrick was a very difficult loss as she was not only a colleague but also a friend and a member of our St. Francis Family.
Many have asked what can we do for the Emrick family in their time of need. Theresa’s husband Troy expressed that meal trains have already begun by other loved ones. Mrs. Skinner and Mrs. Bockbrader who worked closely with Theresa offered Troy some other options or ways we could bring comfort to their family and it was decided that the St. Francis Family will help Troy with the planning and costs associated with their son Braden’s high school graduation party this spring/summer. He said that is something that family would do, and since Theresa had begun working at SFS, it has always felt like family.
If you would like to make a donation to help with Braden’s graduation and to honor Mrs. Emrick’s memory you may send a donation into the office labeled “Emrick Fund.” You can also make a donation with PayPal using the link below.
Once again, we thank you for your love and support as we continue to pray for the Emrick family.
Fran O'Neal
Fran O'Neal
February 15, 1970 - March 3, 2020
Mrs. Fran O’Neal, a beloved teacher at St. Francis for 25 years, passed away on
December 20. She was an inspiration for her students and colleagues alike. Fran
had very high standards. She was an exceptional English teacher and expected
great work of her students. She also commanded respect in the classroom.
“Gentlemen, I will write you up in triplicate,” was a line Fran used sparingly but
with great effect to calm down youthful exuberance.
To honor and memorialize her love of English and teaching, Fran and her husband
of 56 years, Bill, established the Fran A. O’Neal Scholarship Fund. It will benefit
deserving young men at St. Francis who have demonstrated great proficiencies
and interest in English and teaching.
Fran devoted her life devoted to her husband, her students, and her community.
In memory of Fran, contributions may be made to the high school through the
Fran A. O’Neal Scholarship.
Please share your address and contact information on the contribution form so
that the O'Neal family may personally acknowledge your memorial contribution.
David M. Walrod '88
David M. Walrod '88
- March 14, 2019
In memory of David M. Walrod (March 14th, 2019), a memorial scholarship fund is being created to continue the traditions of Saint Francis that he held so dear. A proud 1988 graduate of St. Francis de Sales High School, this scholarship fund will be used to honor David’s legacy and to assist other future Knights to realize their potential as David did.
He lived his life embodying the SFS motto “Be who you are and be that well”. David’s impact on his family, friends, and community was immense and lasting. His fierce loyalty and love will be missed and will be honored through this scholarship.
In memory of David, contributions may be made through the St. Francis de Sales School for the David M. Walrod Memorial Scholarship Fund.
Please share your address and contact information on the contribution form so
that the Walrod Family may personally acknowledge your memorial contribution.