Al and Rose both grew up in large families—Al in Minnesota and Rose in Missouri. Al attended Assumption Catholic School in Eden Valley, MN, with the support of two uncles, Father Pete Gruenes and Father Al Gruenes, who became father figures to him after his own father passed away when he was young. Rose spent a few years discerning a religious vocation in the convent before returning home to help her family with obligations, ultimately deciding not to take her final vows.

The couple married in 1968 and settled in the rural Colon area in 1973. They became deeply involved in their parish, St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, where they initiated the Roast Beef Dinner and supported the Bus Fundraiser at Bishop Neumann High School. Their dedication to their parish and Catholic faith extended to Saunders Catholic Schools, where they became steadfast advocates for the clergy, religious, and Catholic education.

Their commitment grew as their two children and five grandchildren attended St. Wenceslaus Grade School and Bishop Neumann High School. Al and Rose firmly believed in the role of Catholic education in fostering vocations to the priesthood and religious life.

In alignment with their strong faith and dedication to Catholic education, they established an endowed scholarship to help other families access a Catholic education at Bishop Neumann High School, ensuring their legacy of faith and service continues for generations to come.

If you’d like to financially support this scholarship, please click the donate button or contact the development office.
Families must apply in FACTS to be considered for this Scholarship program. Families only need to complete one application for all scholarships. One application fee applies per family.