Walter R. Wieloh
August 27, 1926 ~ October 28, 2009
Walter R. Wieloh, 83, of Weirton, passed away Wednesday, October 28, 2009 in the Weirton Medical Center.
Born August 27, 1926 in Weirton, he was a son of the late Walter K. and Nellie Blasczak Wieloh.
As an original faculty member of Madonna High School in 1955, Walter taught English, Latin, and Theatre. He served as Chairman of the English department for many years and was the founder and faculty advisor of the national award winning Little Magazine, until his recent retirement in 2009.
He was recently inducted into the inaugural class of the Weirton Hall of Fame, and previously honored with the Bishops Cross Award for Excellence in Education from the Wheeling Charleston Diocese.
Mr. Wieloh is survived by his sister Louise Gaudio and her husband Patsy of Follansbee; brothers Bernard Wieloh and his wife Clementine of Warwood, WV and Richard A. Wieloh and his wife Patricia of Weirton; nieces and nephews, Patrick and Mark Gaudio, Rebecca Houser, Paula Prichard, Amy Wieloh – Darmelio, Rick and Jessica Wieloh, and several grand nieces and nephews.
Friends will be received Friday from 4 to 7 PM at the Greco-Hertnick Funeral Home, 3219 Main Street, Weirton. Funeral Mass will be celebrated 11AM Saturday at St. Joseph the Worker Roman Catholic Church.
The Reverend Father Dean Borgmeyer will officiate.
Interment will follow in St. Paul Cemetery, Weirton.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Madonna High School, 150 Michael Avenue, Weirton, WV 26062.
Share tributes and memories at www.grecohertnick.com
Walter has been a mentor and friend for over 40 years. Though it is difficult to comprehend that he is no longer with us physically, his spirit will live with us forever. My sympathies to his immediate family and his extensive Madonna family. Rest in peace my good friend.
Mr. Weiloh has made such a positive impact on all of his students over the years. My thoughts and prayers are with your family. He will be missed.
Mr Wieloh was such a wonderful man, he will be missed by all of his friends and of course his family. He was everything that a teacher should be, dedicated, kind and an inspiration to his students. The Madonna community has suffered a great loss, but is also left with years of wonderful memories and the legacy of his devotion to teaching.
Dear Wieloh family, My thoughts and prayers are with you. Walt and I had been friends for a very long time. He will be greatly missed. Carol Hudachek
My prayers and thoughts are with the family, friends and co-workers of Mr. Wieloh. He certainly was a great example of what a “Teacher” truly should be. He not only taught but inspired his students as well. We who knew him will always remember him.
Mr. Wieloh will always hold a special place in my heart. Not only was he a great teacher and mentor, but a wonderful friend. I know that you are with Alfred and Leo now and at last it will be the “Big Show” again. Love you always, Anna Pompa Gillespie
HE WAS TRULY “A CLASS ACT” !!!
one of the most dedicated individuals in Madonna history. He remembered students names decades after they were his students. Madonna’s loss/Heaven’s gain.
I have some many memories of Uncle Walt growing up, I do not know where to begin. He was always there for his family and especially his nieces and nephews. I will always remember the Christmas shopping trips to Pittsburgh,trips to the Ocean and those backyard picnics at the house. You were a mentor to many and loved and respected by everyone you came in contact with. I truly believe you are with Walter and Nellie in heaven now. Uncle Walt, I will always love you as you will always be in my heart and my memories.
Mr. Walter Wieloh was a true and dedicated member of the teaching profession. I know that I have many fond memories of my time at Madonna in the class of 1964, and that Mr. Wieloh contributed much in his life to the Christian and academic values he hoped to instill in his students. May he rest in peace with our Lord, Jesus Christ.
It is with great sadness that I received this news. I do believe St. Pete would have met him at the gate !! May your soul rest in peace.
So many memories of Mr. Wieloh! What a great man. He will be greatly missed by the Madonna community. Thoughts and prayers to his family.
It’s hard to imagine Madonna without Mr. Wieloh. He was a force of encouragement in my life long after my high school days were over as I am sure he was for so many others. He was the common thread for all Madonna students for so many years. I think Mr. Davis said it best in another posted message, “Madonna’s loss/Heaven’s gain”.
To the Weirton Community and the Wieloh family, I am sorry for your loss and regret not being there to share in what will surely be a celebration of Mr. Wieloh’s life. Every Madonna student, faculty, parent, has, in some way shape or form been touched by Mr. Weiloh. He has taught generations of many of us. He will surely be missed and long be remembered.
Mr. Wieloh inspired so many of us for generations. Thank you Walter for your dedication, for sharing your knowledge, for the respect you showed us, and for your love and friendship. Madonna has lost it’s heart today.
So sad to hear of this great loss. Mr. Wieloh will always be a part of Madonna and live on in the heart of each of his students! To quote Webber & Rice, “There’s one more angel in heaven!”
Dear Rich, Patty, and Family, There are no words to describe the pain and sadness that I feel at the passing of this wonderful man. He was so many things to so many people and had the unique privilege to influence the lives of hundreds of young people, and he did!! He was an institution at Madonna High School and will never be forgotten because he touched the life of every student he taught. He was kind, knowledgeable, funny,and above all had such a devotion to his faith, his school, his family, and his God. Several years ago when he was honored for his forty years of teaching at MHS, I worked with Angela Bernabei, Linda Kucan, Bernadette Puzzuole, John Capito, and several other former students in planning the evening that honored Mr. Wieloh. We wanted a theme and finally decided on this: Walter Wieloh–the man, the teacher, the dreammaker. He was all of these and more.
I will never stop missing you, Walter. Teacher Poet Artist. I was so very lucky to have had you as a friend and mentor for so many years. All blessing and peace to you and your loved ones. Andee
Rich and Patty, I was so sorry to hear about the loss of such a wonderful man and teacher. I have so many great memories of Mr. Wieloh. He truly made a positive impact on every life he came in contact with. Amy, thank you for sharing “Uncle Walt” with me. I will keep all of you in my prayers. Love to all.
Thank you, Mr. Wieloh. You made a tremendous difference in our lives.
Mr Wieloh and I didn’t see eye to eye on many things especially my writing but he taught me to love the English language and to read to enjoy and to learn. He was a great treasure to thousands of Madonna students and to the teaching profession. Rest in Peace you have certainly earned it.
I feel blessed to not only have been taught by such a wonderful influence, but to have formed a pen pal friendship with him over the years. Madonna will never be the same. His memory lives on in every graduate’s heart.
I have heard this before, it takes an army of people to raise children. He was a huge part of that idea and more. He was so classy in dressing and ideas, in that he brought the big city to us in Weirton. Such respect for the kids, would never embarrass or yell. Always so encouraging and seemed to remember most of us by name! I am proud to have had him as one of my leaders and “General in command” who raised me and all of us at Madonna.
Thank you for the dedication and devotion affecting the education and formation of thousands of young people in the Weirton area. We personally learned so much from you and are continually inspired by the way you lived your life. You leave an unbelievable legacy and we are better people because of our good fortune in having known you.
A treasure among the hills of West Virginia. As hard as I try, I just can’t call him anything but Mr. Wieloh. That seems trivial but I believe it is truly a measure of my respect and admiration for him. His commitment, dedication and unbounded love of teaching inspired generations of Madonnians. God Bless, Mr. Wieloh.
What can you say about someone who touched our lives in such a positive way. I remember his driving us to NYC for a Sodality conference–what patience and what concern he showed for us. He was an outstanding teacher,a mentor and a loving son. All of those who knew him will miss him sorely. Rest in Peace.
It was with great sorrow and peaceful joy when I heard of Mr.Weiloh’s passing. I am greatful that I saw him again at our reunion last year. We joked that he had to have looked at the yearbook first, because he knew more people there than I did! In all these years he was never anything but Mr. Weiloh, out of respect to him as my teacher, friend and the cornerstone of Madonna. My prayers are with you Rich and Patty, and with those who will walk the halls of Madonna and not have the honor of calling Mr. Weiloh “My Teacher”. Sleep with angels, my friend.
I knew Mr. Weiloh as a teacher (Madonna class of ’68) and later in life as a cheer leader and encourager. I am so thankful for his life and ever so grateful that God spared him from protracted pain. God bless you in handling the loss of a truly wonder-full person.
Mr. Wieloh, Even though I didn’t have you as a teacher I would like to thank you for always talking with me, and being such a generous person. You will be deeply missed not only by the Madonna community, but by everybody that ever had the privledge to meet you. RIP.
Dear Mr. Wieloh, Angels took you to your just rewards, They gently brought you to Heaves Gates, You are given the Keys to enter, Your great love of Madonna and her students has set a place for you at the Table of Christ. I own all that I am to you Mr. Wieloh and Madonna. Always with love and condolences
1000 characters or less? What a challenge! Mr. Wieloh created so many lifelong memories: sodality conventions, visits to the Knights of St. George Home, Roman festivals, school plays, chat sessions at his home. He tolerated our foolishness as we “levitated” in Latin class and pulled other pranks. He inspired many of us to write, draw, shoot photos and use our creativity to capture life and be published in “The Little Magazine.” He guided us in life’s struggles and always made us feel that he was proud of our accomplishments as if he were our uncle. He mentored many of us teachers. He taught our siblings, children, and grandchildren. And even through the most difficult eras, he continued to teach–it was his life. He deserves the great tributes many are giving him this week. I, like you, will miss Mr. Wieloh, my teacher and friend.
May the Angels lead you into paradise; may the martyrs come to greet you and lead you into the holy city, the new and eternal Jerusalem. Mr. Wieloh taught me Latin, Religion and English at Madonna High School, but he taught me so much more about living an ethical life of service to others. He was a cornerstone of Madonna High School, being a founding faculty member. He leaves a gigantic legacy.A humble man in spite of the many accolades he received, I remember his final comment at the MHS 50th anniversary celebration: I am grateful that I have spent my life exactly where God wanted me to be. He is still exactly where God wants him to be.
We have all been blessed to have had Walter Wieloh touch our lives as only he could. Thank You, Mr. Wieloh, for sharing your life with all of us. Now is your time to rejoice in your glorious reward.
Mr. Wieloh was one of the kindess and most caring men that we have ever known. He taught so many students at MHS over the years and yet when you saw him he always called you by name. He will be remember coast to coast as is evident by all the memorials coming from all across the country. Our deepest sympathy to his family. Ron & Patty Komorowski
My love and peace to the Wieloh families. Walt spoke so often of all the kids and what joy they brought to his life. We have been friends for over 35 years……no one knew me better….I will miss him greatly. I am glad he is no longer in pain, and now knowing the peace of being in God’s hands.His spirit will live on!
To the members of the Wieloh family, It is difficult to put into words the deep sorrow that I felt when I got the news today that Walter had passed away. He had such a profound influence on my life and the lives of so many other young adults as we passed through Madonna High School, it is hard to imagine future generations never having the priviledge of calling him teacher and friend. He dedicated his life to all of his students, and we were all better for having known such a caring and wonderful man. God must have needed an excellent English teacher and so called Walter home this day to enjoy his eternal reward.
Great teacher who made learning fun – Patty. A wonderful gentleman, both for learning English and mentoring in drama. He was not only a teacher but a good friend – Marilyn
My heart is sad today. Walt was such an influence on my life…his guidance, wisdom and laughter will be missed! I have received a birthday card from him for the last 27 years…rest in peace. You were a true gentleman. My sympathy to the entire Weiloh family. God bless you all!
My love and peace to the Wieloh families. Walt spoke so often of all the kids and what joy they brought to his life. We have been friends for over 35 years……no one knew me better….I will miss him greatly. I am glad he is no longer in pain and now knowing the peace of being in God’s hands.
Walter was more than a teacher to most of us: he was a friend and mentor as well. He loved us all as his children and gave his all for us! Walt, we did appreciate and love you for it! Thank you for encouraging me to “go for it” and follow my dream! I’m glad that I did! You will be missed and remembered by generations! To all the Wielohs, I send my love and condolences! You’re a special family! You know how much I loved Walter! All of you and he will be in our prayers this weekend and always!!
Dear Weiloh family, My daughter, Sara, is a student at Madonna and will not have the opportunity to be taught by Walter Weiloh, but I know he had an impact on her just the same. She has told me of watching him walk into the school in the afternoon and what pleasure it gave her. Although, she will never have the opportunity to be taught by this wonderful man, he has made an impression on her that will never go away. My deepest sympathy at your loss and may God keep you all in the palm of his hands. Mary(Carpini)Lyons
My sincere sympathy to the Wieloh family and the MHS community for their loss. God bless you and yours always. God speed Mr. Wieloh!
Rich & Patty – Your brother was one of a kind and influenced so many of us – He was Mr. Madonna. I’m so thankful that I knew him.
As one reads through the abundant amount of guestbook entries, it doesn’t take long to realize how many lives Mr. Wieloh has touched and influenced. He truly was such a wonderful, kind and gentle man…not to mention a dedicated teacher. I really enjoyed his classes and learned many writing skills that I still carry with me today. He made learning interesting, fun and challenging. When I needed his help with my research paper for my Master’s degree, he said he was always willing to help and loved to keep his mind challenged…what a great love for learning! He will be greatly missed by so many. To the Wieloh family: my sincere condolences.
God rest your soul Mr. Wieloh. You were one of the kindest, most sympathetic people I ever met. You deserve a great place in Heaven with God. You did his work on earth. I’m never gonna forget about you ever. Watch over us.
Thank you Mr. Wieloh, for not only touching my life, but also my children. We have been so blessed to have had you in our lives. We love you and will miss you. You were Madonna High School, the consummate educator! Rest in peace with Jesus and the angels.
So many fond memories of you from my High School years. I have never forgotten you and you probably haven’t fogotten me or any other of the students that you taught over all the years at Madonna. What a great memory you had. Like so many other people and students have said, “MR.MADONNA”. Our prayers go out to the family and he will be greatly missed. Heaven is getting a “Great Person”. Class of “63”
Mr. Wieloh, Thank you for all that you did at Weirton Madonna. You touched so many people over the years with your teachings, and will be missed. Rest in Peace !
What a sad day for the Madonna Family due to the loss of our beloved Mr. Wieloh. I feel sorry for the young students who will never be able to say that Mr. Wieloh was their teacher. How fortunate and blessed so many of us have been to know him as a friend, mentor, teacher, and advisor. He was all these things and so much more for over 50 years to the students of Madonna. What an incredible example Mr. Wieloh has been to so many. My deepest sympathy to his family, his colleagues and especially to Mr. Bill Barrett who has been such a great friend to Mr. Wieloh over the years.
Mr. Wieloh it was an honor to know you. I’m sure that Madonna will never be the same without you, but your spirit will live on in the lives of so many that you taught, mentored and advised by word and example.
Condolences to the entire Wieloh family.It was my fortune in life to have Walter as my teacher, mentor, colleague,but most of all, friend. Our Madonna community loses his mortal presence, but his spirit lives on in each and every one he touched. The ultimate “class act”.
Mr. Wieloh will be truly missed. I am grateful to have had the pleasure of being one of his many students. he was a great teacher and he loved teaching. He touched many of our lives. May he rest in peace.
I offer my deepest sympathy to the family of Mr. Wieloh. Our school community was richly blessed with the presence of this teacher and mentor. As pastor of Madonna, be assured of our continued prayers.
My condolences to the Wieloh Family. I fondly remember Mr. Wieloh as a wonderful and accomplished teacher, and how much he gave his students in terms of knowledge. But Mr. Wieloh also taught his students life lessons through example, with his humor, kindness and grace. May he rest in Peace.
We have lost a valuable person not only to education, but to the quality of life. Walt was an important influence in my life. He gave me direction and introduced the world outside of Weirton. He will be missed by many.
Walt was a wonderful mentor, friend, teacher, Christian, man, person. There are many things that come to mind when one thinks of Walt, but I think Jesus said it best when He told us, “Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.” This is what Walt was to everyone whose lives he ever touched. He will be greatly missed and I will miss our small talk anytime we saw each other. My love and sympathy to the Wieloh family.
Dear Rich, Patty and Family, Please accecpt my deepest sympathies on the loss of Mr. Wieloh. I didn’t know him personally, but through my children and granddaughter, who had nothing but wonderful things to say about him. Love & God Bless. Rosalie
We were saddened to learn of Walter’s death. He has been such an important person in our lives for the past 50+ years. He was a wonderful teacher, friend, and mentor, and we were truly blessed by his presence in our lives. We will miss him always.
I am saddened to hear of Walter’s passing. I fondly remember the years I spent with him at Madonna, especially going to the theater in Pittsburgh and working on the Little Magazine. Walt was always so supportive of me and my musical endeavors. What a gift! No one knows the impact he had on the hundreds of students over the years. He will truly be missed. My condolences to the Wieloh family and the Madonna community. Requiescat in pace.
Mr. Wieloh aka “We-Man”: Every single student or person within the Madonna family is grief stricken with the sad news of your passing, but we all know that our lives have been enriched through having the opportunity to not only learn from you but to know you as a person. Thank you for your continued help as I graduated from MHS and entered law school. You were always so willing to go far and beyond to help those in need. I will never forget it. My condolences to the Wieloh family. May God rest your soul, We-Man.
Our condolences to the Wieloh family. Walter was such a positive influence on our three children as well as thousands of Madonna students. You will be missed.
Mr. Wieloh taught many, loved many, and befriended many. Many listened, many learned, many loved, and many will miss. It is such a great loss to lose such a wonderful man. He was a wonderful teacher and friend. His heart was in his work and always with his students, past and present. This is a hard loss for the Madonna family. He will be missed greatly. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Wieloh family.
Walter Wieloh was a great educator, a true mentor, and an inspiration for his students and fellow educators. He will be missed. The Wieloh family is in our prayers.
You know the power and impact a person has on your life when you haven’t seen that person in 17 years and news of their passing fills your eyes with tears and your heart and head with fond memories. Mr. Wieloh was a treasure to the Weirton Madonna community and his impact will be felt for years to come. Jessica, my thoughts and prayers and with you and your family!
My deepest sympathy to the Wieloh Family. What a kind and gentle man. He will be sadly missed by all.
To the Family of Our Beloved Mr. Wieloh, How oppressive it can be to not have the knowledge or tools needed to express oneself. Conversely, how liberated and empowered one feels when he finally is able to communicate intelligently his thoughts and feelings. Yes, we all know some poor communicators, and, at some point, each of us was one. However, if we were graced with the knowledge, direction, inspiration, and friendship of Mr. Wieloh, which he always imparted so lovingly to his students, then we are among the most fortunate. Because of you, dear Mr. Wieloh, we are not only better writers; we are also more successful in every facet of our lives – from our personal relationships to the quality of our professional performance, we are better able to approach and accomplish everything as deeper thinkers and better Christians, because of you. May the Lord grant you the peace and joy which you so deserve. Domenico G. Di Bacco Class of 1991 and Teacher of 15 years
Dear Wieloh Family, I just wanted to say how sorry I’m to hear of the passing of a dear friend. I have done Mr. Wielows house keeping for about 3 years. We had many laughs together. It was my pleasure to keep house for him.I know how much he enjoyed teaching. May God give you his peace at this time. Rebecca Wargo
To the Weiloh Family: My thoughts and prayers are with all of you during this difficult time. My heart is saddened to hear of Mr. Weiloh’s passing. He was truly an inspiration to so many people. I consider myself honored and truly blessed to have had an instructor and mentor who cared so much for all of his students. I want to personally thank you Mr. Weiloh for your guidance, support, encouragement and most of all your love. I will never foret you. Love, Kenyatta Coleman Grant Class of 1991
WOW! What a person to have watching over us in Heaven! He watched over us for 60 plus years from behind the desk and now he watches from the throne! God Bless him as he blessed us!
Dear Wieloh family, you have my deepest sympathy, all of you will be in my thoughts and prayers at your time of great loss. Be comforted in the thought that Our beloved, Mr Wieloh went directly to heaven. It was an honor and pleasure to have known him. The halls of Madonna will never be the same without Mr. Wieloh walking through them any longer.
Dear Wieloh Family & the entire Madonna Family, It has been said that no man is indispensable, but some are irreplaceable. We think Walter is one of those men. It is without question that his loyalty to Madonna High School is unchallenged. However, it was not only his loyalty, but how he went about demonstrating it. Always with the gracious attitude of one who was here to serve. Our three sons all experienced this. Abraham Lincoln once said: “I like to see a man proud of the place in which he lives, I like to see aman live so that his place wil be proud of him”. Walter Wieloh, we are all proud of you a grieve your passing. Tony & Ruth Licata
Dearest Wieloh family, How sad it is to lose someone who made such an impact in such a short lifetime. Mr. Wieloh was not only an outstanding educator but his daily walk with Jesus reflected the true Catholic witness that we should all be. For many years he shopped at Rite Aid on a regular basis, and he was such a joy to deal with. Always a gentleman, always kind and compassionate. We had many a meaningful conversation in the aisles of Rite Aid. Mr. Wieloh will be forever remembered in our community. You all are in my thoughts and prayers.
Thank you Walter for always being there for us. Especially going to all of the girls basketball games and celebrating with us winning the State Championship in 78. Your spirit will live on in me forever. Thank you my friend.
I remember Mr. Weiloh not anly as a teacher at Madonna, but as a member of Sacred Heart of Mary Church. I remember how he cared for his mother and brought her to church after his father passed away. What a shame that so many students will never get to experience him. He was truly an awesome man, who touched the life of everyone he met. Webster could redefine many words, (amazing, dedicated, knowledgeable, inspiring, reverant, and so many more) using only two words: Walter Weiloh. Heaven is truly a better place with him there, and earth is missing one of the greatest men who ever lived. May the peace of Jesus Christ be with the Weiloh family as you mourn the loss of your brother. The entire Weirton community is mourning with you. God rest your soul Mr. Weiloh.
Paula & Tracy – your uncle was a wonderful man and a blessing for everyone of us. He’ll be missed. Diana Magnone Danielle, Bobby (Class of 2006), and Tarin Kovalik
Please know that our deepest sympathies are with all of you. Walter was a wonderful man and will be miss. Sincerely, Paul and Betty Simon and Mary Beth Smon
“Mr. Wieloh”: We have been blessed by your kindness, dedication, inspiration, and friendship. Rest in peace, our mentor and friend. My thoughts and prayers are with the Wieloh family.
Dear Mr Weiloh, I smile from my heart when I think of you and all the fond memories of my years at Madonna. You gave me and so many others so much of you on which to build our own lives. I will always remember you and think of the good times and all that you passed on to us. “Well done, good and faithful servant”!
Our deepest sympathy goes out to your family. Your memories will live on through your former students and through the many hearts you have touched. In your many years in the classroom and mentoring, you never looked down at anyone. The shining light from your soul will beam down forever.
Like so many Madonna Alumi, I am saddened by the news of Mr. Wieloh’s death. Also like many alumi family generations share stories and smiles about him. Even now I write this with a dictionary to be sure my spelling does not dissappoint him yet again. I am grateful for his teaching. Know that your sadness is shared by many.
Walter never forgot family. You could look forward to a greeting card every birthday,holiday etc. He will be missed.
Louise, Bernard, Richard, spouses, and children, Walter was a wonderful man who gave his life for the benefit of others. What a wonderful legacy. In your sorrow, my God comfort you and grant you peace. Sincerely, Jeff And Carole (Przybysz) Smay
My condolenences are to the Wieloh family. Mr. Wieloh was a great, great man and a terrific teacher. He was always available when I needed him during my Madonna days and even after. He will be missed by all. Rest In Peace
May heaven welcome this gentle man of God with open arms and smiles as big as the ones with which he always greeted us. I am still amazed at how he always remembered each of his students by name . . . . generation after generation. He is truly one of Madonna High School’s icons. My prayers and condolences to the family.
Walter was my teacher and role model. He lived a life of faith and gave of himself day after day–in the classroom and in the world. I miss him but I look forward to seeing him again.
The Donnelly Clan send their condolences to the family. Mr. Wieloh taught all nine children and has influenced our lives!
This guestbook shows Mr. Wieloh’s students now scatter the country, and his memory lives on through each of us. He touched everyone who was once lucky enough to sit in his classroom, and we are blessed to have had him in our Madonna family. Rest in Peace, Mr. Weiloh. You will be missed.
Dear Family, To say that Mr. Wieloh will be missed is certainly an understatement. What a wonderful person, teacher, friend and listener! I will always remember him saying, “Sharon, you can call me Walt now” and I’d say “ok Mr. Wieloh”. I will remember him always! My Love & Prayers, Sharon (Antonelli) Higgins Class of ’83
Mr. Wieloh, What a great man. What great memories from High School class of 1986. I am positive that Mr. Wieloh earned his angel wings long, long ago. He has earned his spot in heaven many times over. Condolences to family and friends. Sincerely, The Varitek Family
On behalf of the Kendrick family I would like to extend our sympathy to the Wieloh family. Mr. Wieloh taught my husband and all three of our children. Jon enjoyed teaching with him at Madonna last year. He certainly touched many lives and inspired and challanged many young minds. I know he will be missed by the entire Madonna family but his legacy will live on. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Don and Kathy Kendrick
Mr. Wieloh will remain in our hearts forever. With sincere sympathy, Rose Ann(Dofka)Keller Class of 59
I can honestly say that I would not be the person I am today if I had not met Walter Wieloh. The encouragement and love that he gave me changed me, and it is something that I could never repay. An amazing man, and his legacy will not be forgotten. When someone refers to him as “teacher”, it reminds me of the way the apostles referred to Jesus. He truly did God’s work here on earth.
No matter where we live or where we are, we always knew we could come home to be warmly greeted and remembered by Mr. Wieloh. He made Madonna home to each and everyone of us, living and giving in the spirit of Christ. You will always live on in us and may you rejoice in heaven with Jesus whom you role-modeled so well for us. We know what Jesus would do because of you. Fly with the angels as you smile down upon us from heaven.
Walt will be very much missed, we shared vacations, holidays, dinners, many visits in Wheeling and at my house, we had some wonderful times together. He was a true friend and I will dearly miss him. Mary
Dear Wieloh Family, I am so sorry for your loss. Mr. Wieloh was such a kind hearted loving man and one of the greatest teachers I have ever had. He leaves a legacy behind that no one will ever match. I wish I could be there for his funeral, you all will be in my thoughts and prayers. To Mr. Wieloh, you will be greatly missed and never forgotten! My deepest sympathy, Joanna Bernabei-McNamee Class of 1993
Uncle Walter was a wonderful man, and will forever hold a place in my heart. All my love to the Wieloh family. xoxo
Dear Rich & Patty and the Wieloh Family. We were so sad to hear about Mr. Wieloh’s passing. He gave us such good memories of our high school years with him. The Madonna Family will not be the same without him. He took a piece of everyone’s heart to heaven with him. We were blessed to have known him and to have had him as a teacher at Madonna High. With Sympathy, Dolores Ference Koper, class of 65′ Mike Koper, class of 62′ Jean Ann Ference Custino, class of 62′ Ann Marie Ference Liferink, class of 68′ Mary Jo Ference Otey, class of 80′
My condolences go out to the Wieloh family. Mr. Wieloh was a great man and educator. He was a caring man and was always there when you needed the extra help in class and when you just needed someone to talk to. He helped me become a better student and taught me to become a better person. I will never forget him and he will always be in my heart. Class of 2007
What a great loss Madonna will suffer without him. He was such a devoted teacher, I was blessed to have him at Madonna and my son has also been taught by him. My deepest sympathy to the family. MHS CLASS OF 1981.
To the Wieloh and Madonna Family, There are many educators, a lot of teachers, a few really good teachrs and just one Walter Wieloh, and we knew him. How lucky for us.
When I think of Madonna, I think “Walter Wieloh”, when I think of the history of Sacred Heart of Mary, I think “Walter Wieloh.” He has certainly left an imprint during the course of his life and shall be saddly missed. My prayers go out to you and all who grieve his absence.
My deepest sympathy to all members of Mr. Wieloh’s family. My children, Lisa McCardel, Mike McCardel and John McDonald had Mr. Wieloh as a teacher. He was wonderful and we will miss him. We treasure the memories we have and will never forget his kindness, professionalism,fairness,humor, helpfulness. Mr. Weiloh is Madonna High School. Rest in Peace.
Dear Weiloh family, We are saddened by the lost of Walter. Our loss is heavens gain. He was able to bring a smile to anyone he came in contact with. He was truely one in a million. He will be missed. The Robinson Family
The true mark a man has made on society lies in the testimonials written by the individuals whom he touched. The unanimous amplitude of the memorials in this guestbook unequivocally attest to Mr. Wieloh’s distinction amongst mankind. He will fondly be remembered. I extend my deepest sympathy to his family.
Dear Wieloh Family, I am so sorry for your loss. Mr. Wieloh was such a kind hearted loving man and one of the greatest teachers I have ever had. He leaves a legacy behind that no one will ever match. We all now have another angel up above looking down upon us.
I am very sorry to hear about Walter’s death. I knew him for over 50 years and my fond memories of him are too numerous to recount. Betty Kuchak Simon and I were friends with him at tThe College of Steubenville and then taught with him at Madonna High School during its early years. Betty was there tilll 1957 and I till 1958. He. of course, stayed on to uphold the high educational, moral and ethical standards that were established when we were there together. He will be missed by all who knew him. Marlene Kokochak Marsh
For someone like myself who agonized over the prospect of conjugating Latin verbs and shrank in fear at the thought of being called on in class to read a passage I still find myself after all these years bragging how I was able to translate Caesar’s Gaelic Wars into English. Such was the influence of the teacher, Mr. Wieloh. Class of ’64.
I am so sorry to hear about the passing of this dear man Walt. . .I have very fond memories of his kindness and creative spirit during my teaching at Madonna High School. He left a lasting impression on my heart. . .he will be missed and always remembered. Sincerely. . . Pat Moran
Our deepest sympathy to the Wieloh family on the loss of a wounderful human being and excellent educator. Walter was Madonna High School, and few of us have such an impact on the thousands of students that walt had during his tenure at the school. I’am glad that I had the opportunity to teach in the same building with him for elevin years.Some of us influence a few in our lifetime , Walt shared his knowledge with all that came through the doors of Madonna. He will be missed,but long remembered.
We were privilged to have known you as a teacher and a friend. You immeasurably enriched our lives. We will miss you dearly and hold fast to our memories of you. Godspeed, Walter.
Cousin Walt.. that was always the way he signed a greeting card. He never forgot us not one time. My only hope is that this intellegent, caring, gentle man did not suffer. My mind holds the best memories of strolling with him at “Lesniowski Park” and his lessons on the best way to skip a stone, on the creek! That is how I will always remember him.
Deepest sympathy to the Wieloh Family. His teaching had a great influence on many students and their parents. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Sincerely, The Molino Family Mary T. John ’88, Debby & Daughters Max ’89, Joelle & Daughters
I still remember the thrill Mr. Weiloh felt from receiving photo or essay for the Little Magazine sent from a former student and it brings a smile to my face. He was an example to me of how written word, art, or theater could spark such emotion. He taught English in the classroom, but kindness and class through example. By teaching generations of numerous Madonna families, he became a member of many. I am blessed my family experienced such a one of a kind gem. Thank you,Weiloh family, for sharing him with us all. Mr. Weiloh & Madonna are one in the same. Comfort and blessings to you as you celebrate such a legacy.
Mr. Wieloh was a gift to so many. I hope he knew how much he was loved and admired. He exemplified the meaning of “teacher” in every way. He will truly be missed.
To all the Wieloh family … I have had so many thoughts and memories since hearing of Walter’s illness and death … certainly, grief for the loss of a long-time friend … but more so gratitude for witnessing a life well-lived, always following the example of Jesus. I’m especially remembering our years as young adults in the CYO (remember, Bernie?) – what fun years they were, laying the foundation for life-long friendships – visiting Walter and Nellie at the home on Weir Avenue – spaghetti dinners are my parents home. Even remembering the early years, I’m realizing that Walter was the consumate teacher – he was teaching all us even at that early age how to live with grace, gentleness and respect and how important it was to live a life of love and service. He has already heard the angels sing and “well done, my good and faithful servant” certainly applies to Walter. I’m so grateful to have had him as my friend. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Family of Mr. Walter (Walt) Wieloh, I am saddened to hear of Mr. Wieloh’s passing. He was a super person and teacher. Many lives have been touched through his life and influence at Madonna High. May you find comfort during your time of grief.
I didn’t think it would be this hard. I will never forget the gift of a book each Christmas to share knowlege. I love you and will miss you forever. God Bless. Love….Your Bird.
To the Wieloh Family~~~I am so grateful that Mary Ann Tonski Thomas, John Rurak, and I had the opportunity to dine with Walt last December here in Pittsburgh. It was then we were able to reminisce and to personally thank him for introducing us to New York City (SSCA),our first Broadway play, Radio City Music Hall, and other cultural events. We also shared cherished memories of those home-from-college parties at the holidays~~~complete with Mrs. Wieloh’s chop suey! A Renaissance Man, Walt was foremost a sterling Christian. Although I feel that an era has ended, I know Walt will live on forever in our hearts. JoAnn Znoy Class of ’60
To the Wieloh Family I am proud to had Mr. Wieloh as my teacher at a great institution as Madonna. Reading some of the other entries , yes Mr.Wieloh is Madonna Steve Klash
To the Wieloh Family my deepest condolences. A great man who touched so many people – God Bless You
I always planned on coming to Walt’s funeral but it just wasn’t possible…I’m sad to miss honoring him but will be at Mass here in our Chapel today at 11:00. I loved Walt deeply as a colleague and friend and will miss our “chats” about every subject imaginable. He was a gentle, humble, dedicated Christian man who loved his family, his work and his students. My sincere sympathy to his family, Madonna and all those who loved him. As John O’Donohue says in his book of blessings: ” May you continue to inspire us: To enter each day with a generous heart. To serve the call of courage and love…” God speed Walt.
We would like to express our sincere sympathy to the Wieloh family. Walter was the most compassionate and caring man I have ever known. Always a smile on his face and a hello for everyone. He will greatly be missed by the entire Madonna Family. Heaven truly will gain from our loss.
My deepest sympathy to the Wieloh family and the entire Madonna family. I know we all feel this great loss. He was a great mentor. Class of ’79
My deepest condolences to the Wieloh family. Walt embodied the spirit of Madonna High School. He was always there for the students. His passion for teaching, his dedication to the students, and wonderful sense of humor will always be a treasured memory. I was lucky enough to benefit from four years of his wisdom and guidance. May his soul rest in peace.
My sincere sympathy and prayers to the Wieloh family. As so many others, I was blessed to have been a student of Mr. Wieloh.
How much can you learn from one man in four adolescent years of high school? Let’s see— a greater appreciation for works of literature and the beauty of the written word in English class; the recognition that community service is important through Sodality ; and who knew that Latin could actually be interesting. Mr. Wieloh was synonomous with Madonna, his presence and influence will be missed.
Walter was a unique and intersting person. A man… a teacher, who I’m sure inspired all those he came in contact with. He helped to elivate our learning, our faith, and expose us to what life has to offer. His dedication to his profession is likely unrivled. I am sure he is recieving his eternal reward, and will probably, with humility say, “Lord I was just doing my job”. Thank you Walter…… thank you Lord. Tom Class of ’66
To the Family of Mr.Wieloh I was honored to attend Mr. Wieloh’s funeral this morning. I wish to extend my deepest condolances to you all. I have been blessed to have had all three of my children attend Madonna and to have them experience his teaching them, now my grandchildren are going there and I am sad that they will not have the opportunity they did. However, On behalf of my entire family I say thank you to a most dedicated and caring man. May he rest in peace.
To the Weiloh family: It breaks my heart to see that such a wonderful gentleman has passed through the halls of Madonna for the last time. He was a mentor,a character builder and a giving man. He introduced me to the arts and music culture which I have instilled in my children. I’ve always held those memories close to my heart. Thank you Mr. Weiloh. You will be missed. Toni Orlando Gurskey
Mr Wieloh was an example of a truly selfless individual.Heaven has just welcomed another angel.
I am a 2002 graduate of Madonna High School, and Mr. Wieloh was one of my favorite teachers. He always had a special place in my heart and influenced my decision to become a teacher as well. I know that nothing can be said to heal your pain and loss, but know that he held a very special place in my heart and many others. He was a very special individual and he will never be forgotten.
Mr. Wieloh was an icon at Madonna High School! All that you taught us and shared with us will live on in memory of you. May your family find peace in all the memories they have had with you and knowing that you touched so many lives. Susie
The memorial Mass for Mr. Wieloh this morning was a beautiful tribute, and captured the spirit of this gracious man. All four of our children are lucky to have shared memories of Mr Wieloh. The youngest would have missed having him as a teacher, but for an online Latin class. Mr Wieloh was so delighted that someone was studying Latin again, he dug out his old textbooks and stood by to help. This is just another example of the generous nature of this caring man. Our family was blessed to have known him.
We are saddened to hear of Mr. Wieloh’s passing. He touched so many lives in his career. This guestbook is a testimony to his life. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family. God Bless.
It was so good to sit with you and visit at our last reunion (2008)! Our deepest sympathy to Your whole family…Your example of class and fairness will long be remembered by the Madonna community.
I always loved Mr Wieloh. He was an excellent teacher and role model. he will be sadly missed by all.
Dear Rich,Patty,and family George and I were so honored to attend Mr. Wieloh’s funeral. It was truly a testament of love and friendship by all. He will always be remembered as a wonderful teacher and community inspiration. He only wanted to do his job with no recognition but he was so much more to all of us. The Class of ’65 gave him fits but loved him.
my thoughts and prayers are with the family….
Dearest Rich & Patty, Don & I send our love and condolences. Know we are with you there in prayer and thought. I believe the Class of ’62 (our class) was Mr. Wieloh’s first homeroom class way back when Madonna first opened it’s doors in 1955. We were only 6th.graders at the time (highest grade being 9th grade)and the only class that spent 7 years at Madonna. No, we weren’t slow it just took 4 years for Madonna to be a complete High School, by that I mean Freshman through Senior Classes. Just a little info for those who may be interested. I believe we weren’t the best class discipline wise but Mr. Wieloh sure knew his subject well and put up with us while we learned. Over the years I’ve heard my twin sister Joann contribute her knowledge of good grammar to Mr. Wieloh. Madonna has lost an icon but he’ll never be forgotten. God Bless all of the Wieloh family and also the extended Madonna Family. Jeanette Rocchio-Whitlatch and Don Class of 1962
Walter was a gentleman, a dedicated teacher and a great influence on so many of us. He set the standard for dignity and integrity. We are sure that the good Lord has welcomed Walter home and congratulated him on a job well done.
To Mr. Wieloh’s family: We have been so blessed to have Walt as a part of our lives. We were students and friends. Having ministered Holy Communion and prayer with him over the past few years has been a life’s experience. When told that so many people were praying for him, he would say humbly,”that is all I need”. I think Sophia’s painting said it all: “Well done, my good and faithful servant”. God’s rest. Jim and Linda Pauchnik
Mr. Wieloh was a very special teacher to so many. He taught my father Rick Majoris, my brother Todd Majoris class of 1985 and myself Darcee Majoris class of 1989. He was such a great influence on so many students. May God bless his family, friends and students and keep them in his loving care. Darcee Majoris Groves Class of 1989
To Mr. Wieloh’s Family…. I’m truly sorry to hear of Mr. Wieloh’s passing. He was a great teacher of mine, class of 1963. He and family will be in my thoughts and prayers and may Our Lord keep you all close to His Heart at this sad time. He will truly be missed.
My thoughts and prayers go out to Mr. Wieloh’s family.
Mr. Wielho taught my sister and I. I enjoyed his classes in high school and he was a wonderful person. He would often call me by my sister’s name but since I know who he was referring to I answered. He will be greatly missed.
To the Wieloh Family, My sincere condolences to all of you for your loss of this wonderful teacher and human being. I too carry treasured memories of this fine man from my years as one of the many students he taught at Madonna. Sincerely, Joe Ricciardi class of ’69
These memorials are a tremendous testament to Mr. Wieloh. As I read them, they brought back memories, laughs, and tears. I wish we all could sit around and “chat” about how Mr. Wieloh influenced so many. I was his student, his co-worker at Madonna, and I retired after 39 years as a teacher…all before Mr. Wieloh retired. He loved what he did…teaching all of us to reach for our dreams.
Mr. Wieloh was truly the rock that Madonna was built on. His guidance and teaching have inluenced all of our lives. Rest in Peace my friend and god saved a special place in heaven for you.
Prayers for the family.
He inspired many people who will always remember and charish the memories of his years at Madonna. I for one am thankful to have had him in my young life for his teachings carried me through many years. Thank you Mr. Wieloh!!!!! My thoughts and prayer are with all of you.
My prayers are with the friends and family of Mr. Wieloh. I was a student of his in the mid 90’s. He once gave me some funky looking “This book belongs to…” stickers because he thought I’d like them (which I did). I was amazed that a teacher could think of me as more than their job or just another test to score. He actually showed an interest in the personalities of his students. I spoke with him a few times after graduation and was able to see him then as more of a person rather than a teacher and he was definately a wonderful and funny person. His passing is a great loss for the whole community.
Many condolences to the Wieloh family. Bravo! to Mr. Wieloh for living a great life, a life that touched and inspired many…we are so grateful that you were our teacher.. an important,yet humble profession in our close-knit catholic high school…days gone by but not forgotten..you will be remembered as a great man…Thank you Mr. Wieloh..God Bless
My condolences to the Wieloh family, and the MHS community. Walt was my Godfather, and a distant cousin, as well as my teacher of English, Latin. He taught me never to be afraid, be creative, and generous. Walt will live in my heart, as we do in God. I know in faith his yesterday’s death gives birth to eternal tomorrow. Well done faithful servant! May you rest in peace. Sister Anne Dorice DeFebbo,OSF (Anna Mary DeFebbo, Class of 1965)
How fortunate we feel to have had Walt Wieloh in our life. He was not only our teacher and friend but an incredible mentor to all who crossed his path.Yes, the Madonna family will greatly miss this kind, wonderful and compassionate man and we are all blessed to have know him. How amazing to think of the many changes he has seen through the generations of students he taught; and one thing remained constant, Mr. Wielohs’ dedication to his profession and Madonna High School. Our deepest sympathy to Rich, Patty and all the Wieloh family.Also to Mr.B who lost a great friend. Ted & Kathy Spadafora Gill Class of 63
My deepest sympathy to Mr. Wieloh’s family. He was a great man and a wonderful teacher. Dedicated to his students. Madonna will miss him. I will never forget him. He was always good to me. I am so glad that Our Faith in Jesus Christ says that we will see one another again. I am looking foward to our next meeting. Blessings to you all.
To the Wieloh Family, Mr. Wieloh was and always will be a Madonnian icon. He taught me not only about literature, but about life. The community has lost a very wonderful man, but Heaven gained a true literary critic. He will be missed. Sincerely, Rita R. Ruszkowski
Mr. Wieloh, a humble & dedicated man was an inspiration & highly respected; he was a “standard of excellence” in every way. We were blessed to have him as our teacher & treasure the memories of how he enriched our lives.His kindness & smile will not be forgotten.Rest in peace, Mr.Wieloh, we will miss you. Michael & Marlene Rybka Runkel Class of ’64
You cant just talk the talk if you dont walk the walk. We would never have allowed them to affect us as profoundly as they did, to touch us in our hearts, if we had not sensed that they loved us. They were men and women of faith, who taught us in the most effective way possible by their good example. The bible says, Men come and men go. Earth abides. For Madonna alumni, there are two men who are like the earth itself. Students come and students go. These two remain. Mr. Walt Wieloh and Mr. Bill Barrett. At the Madonna 50-year Reunion, Mr. Wieloh told us that he is a happy man because he knows that he is exactly where God wants him to be. Well, Amen! to that. We are happy to have you here. We thank God for you. We appreciate your faithfulness. You gave your life to us. We want you to know that we love you too. – Madonna commencement address, May 2007.
My condolences to Mr. Wieloh’s family. A true teacher and mentor has been lost, but a good and faithful servant has made his way home. Rest in peace, Mr. Wieloh.
I am deeply saddened by the loss of Walter.I was missioned at Madonna in the early 60’s for one year. Since that time, I have always recieved a card at Christmas from Walter,a man of deep loving relationships. I will miss his visits to Long Beach Island where we would meet for a bite to eat and a show at the Surflight. Many happy memories of his life and his achievements will remain in my heart and memeory. Blessings to his family. Virginia(formerly Sr. Renee)
Thank you, Mr. Weiloh, for having more faith in my abilities than I had myself. As I teach, I think of your patience, your understanding that every student has potential — and to keep an eye on the quiet ones — they, too, need to be drawn out and appreciated. Thanks for sharing your gifts.
Mr. Wieloh was such an integral part of my happy memories of Madonna. I feel blessed to have known him.
Dear Wieloh Family, It was with great sadness that I learned of Walt’s passing. He was a wonderful man, a talented instructor and a true example of the love of Christ. I will always cherish his kind and gentlemanly ways and I count it my privilege and honor to have known him both as a teacher and a friend. He truly had a gift to inspire students to reach higher and dream bigger. For that I will be eternally grateful. May the God of Peace reign with you in this time of sorrow. With deepest sympathy, Stan Poszywak (Class of 82′)
My heartfelt sympathy to Walt’s family. Used to be he, Bill, and Beth would make the drive to Burgettstown during the Christmas season to visit our family, it was a special time out of Latin class. He was the sponsor of many memories and lessons that have made me a better person. Requiescat in pace.
7 years later and i still miss you with all my heart. you were the most understanding uncle ever. all my love, becky