Diary of Alfred E. Potter May, 1956

01.  Tuesday: [Back to smoking today] Frank and Mary Getchel are married 35 years.  Attended Kiwanis luncheon South Park School Glee Club entertains us.  My guest Harv Lhost.  Francis Lamb is over for some signatures and also suggestions for our Profit Sharing Fond.  The Milwaukee Braves play their first game of ball yesterday since a week ago Sunday.  All their games were postponed either an account of rain or cold weather.  They lost to the St. Louis Cardinals 2-0.  Warren Spahn losing pitcher.  Attendance 6090 the smallest crowd ever to attend since the Braves moved to Milwaukee.

02.  Wednesday: Ted and Mary Radley are married 27 years.  Senator Alben Barkley 78 died of a heart attack Monday while making a speech at Washington and Lee University Lexington Virginia.  He was a Democrat political leader for many years.  Attended every Democratic convention as a delegate since 1920.  He had been congressman - both junior and senior senator and Vice president under President Harry Truman.

03.  Thursday: [TEG] Rain most of the day, but not heavy.

04.  Friday: Jacob and Goldie Klemmer are married 41 years.  Bob Bassett, publisher of the Milwaukee Sentinel, will become a vice president, of the Joseph Schlitz Brewing Company.  He resigned his position at a dinner given at his home and will assume his new duties and position next Monday.  Had company (unexpected) tonight.  Art Redmann spends the evening with us.  He is looking for work thought he’d like to help Ray Schmidt check merchandise and also clerk in the store.

05.  Saturday: [Victor Riesel pronounced permanently blind.]  Dr. Ray and Elsie Wagner are married 23 years as of today. Art and Marie Hill are married 5 years.  Harry W. Lee and Stella Neubauer are married 41 years. Our neighbor Ernie Koch is 69. Loyalty Day celebration in Oshkosh is somewhat marred by rain. Fred Baumgartner and Art Mueller are in Milwaukee today to be inducted into the Shriners. Sylvester Propson is also inducted. Tonite we have severe electrical storms and heavy showers. Victor Riesel will never see again according to his attending physician.

06.  Sunday: George and Elsie (Stoegbauer) Webb are married 44 years.  It is still raining this morning and keeps it up until noon.  Sunshine this afternoon.  To 7³⁰ Hi Mass – Father Milbauer still on the 4th Commandment, duty to priests – sisters.  By the way Father Milbauer is 30 years of age today.  Don and family stopped in at Father Schorn’s and Rose for a short visit (with the children).  Don family spend the evening at our place.  Mark is acting like measles coming up. 

Com.  Rose Hugger

07.  Monday: [M 3 M] Bill Murphy and Alice Baranowski are married 43 years.  Norm Brown is with us as usual for Monday noon.  Mothers Day Party for Christian mothers and Altar Society well attended.  Donald takes pictures, after the party to the store where Fred Roberts Eastman Kodak is waiting for him, then orders until 11.50 P.M.  Joe Koplitz 424 – 12th passed away at 8.45 this morning.  Born April 30 – 1873.  Married to Augusta Puetz June 17 – 1908.  Operated Simpson and Koplitz tavern years ago, also with Frank his brother the Brooklyn Tavern.  Retired since 1940.  Ben Beulen died 11 this morning.

08.  Tuesday: [M 12 M] Joe and Virginia Blechinger are married 16 years.  Edwin and Charlotte Serwas are wedded 33 years.  To Kiwanis luncheon.  Conservation program with a color movie “Watershed.” Very interesting.  This evening to Marquardts - Rosary by Father Schorn for Joe Koplitz.  Then to Fiss and Bills paid last respects to Ben Beulen.  Mother and style show workers are entertained by Elsie Wagner at her home with dinner and colored movies and also color slides taken by Donald.

09.  Wednesday: [M 3 M] Charles Wrage and Alma Hicks married 50 years ago today, by Rev. Wilson in Second Methodist Episcopal Church.  Honorary pallbearer at Joe Koplitz funeral, others Joe Schani– Gene Whittemore – Matt Mertz – Joe Lang – John Mateyka.  Mary Ann and me took a ride to Matt Drexler’s for a visit.  Find the folks gone.  Did some work in my den getting the religious goods sorted, and placed on shelves.

10. Thursday: [Markie begins to creep.   M 9 M] To 6³⁰ Mass - Father Schorn. Markie gives out today by beginning to creep. I visited Matt Drexler this afternoon. He is doing fine. His family was entertained at Hi K last evening which accounts for their absence. Also learned Amanda's birthday is today. Two of the Sacred Heart Sisters come to visit Matt while I was there. Their order is more lenient than the Notre Dame when it comes to visiting homes. They also enjoyed a nice piece of Mandy's birthday cake and ice cream. We attended So Side B M potluck at Columbus Club tonite. Won a large box of Les Borisch stationery.

Com.  Joe Koplitz

11.  Friday: Attended “Serra” luncheon at the Athearn.  Father Sladek gave a very interesting talk on “Lutheranism.” It would seem that Martin Luther was an over scrupulous person, had a good education, belonged to the Augustinian Order.  He never seemed to be at peace with his mind, in fact made three general confessions in one year.  Why would he do that.  Have our evening meal at the K.C. Club, had a nice visit with Norbert and Mrs. Landgraf and Mr. and Mrs. Tom Peck.  Paid last respects to Mrs. Carl Dreyer at Marquardts.

12.  Saturday: [John Felker is 49 today.   M 6 M] We almost went to the cottage to take off storms, and then it rained.  We are busy at the store selling Mother Day Presents and Cards.  John Felker has a birthday he is 49.  Temperature went to 80° yesterday the first eighty reading in nearly 8 months.  Rain to date  2.82 inches.  84° in Milwaukee yesterday.

13.  Sunday: Mary Ann to St. John’s 6 Oclock Mass.  Mother and I to St. Vincents 7³⁰ Low Mass –Father Schorn.  First Holy Communion Day for the little boys and girls, also Mothers Day.  Mrs. Jungwirth is with us.  Had quite a bit of rain during night and this morning.  Spend the day at home.  I worked from 9³⁰ to 12.30 6⁰⁰ to 7³⁰.  We spend the evening with Don’s family.  Father Schorn announced the passing of Mrs. Frank Zarter.  Born Ella Schwartz Aug. 19 – 1871.  Married Frank Nov. 5 – 1894.  She died Saturday 5³⁰ P.M.  She was a sister to Mrs. Pankratz Drexler –Albert and Wenzel Schwartz. 

Com.  Honor of Our Blessed Mother also Mother

14.  Monday: On the job at 8²⁰  A.M.  Fred Baumgartner – Joe Baier and myself present at our weekly meeting.  Art and Norbert Mueller missing.  Norm Brown is over this noon, as our guest.  Margaret Spanbauer widow of John passed away yesterday lingering illness.  Married John June 7 – 1909.  He died Aug. 9 – 1937.

15.  Tuesday: [M 6 M] To Kiwanis luncheon, round table this noon.  Program and Charter presentation tonite to newly formed Cirkle K Club from State Teachers College.  Mother and me paid last respects to Mrs. Frank Zarter and Margaret Spanbauer

16.  Wednesday: [Temperature 30° today.] Quite busy today getting things in order at the store before and three to Mercy Hospital at 4 Oclock.  I’m in room 205 new section, very pleasant, learn that Bill Bormann is my neighbor.  He is confined with “Mercury” poison.  Met a rather young Sister Paula who will be graduating May 27th.  Her family name Jacobs live in Appleton.  5 P.M. Nurse takes my blood pressure – 5.15 P.M. a generous sample of my blood is taken by a “darkie” nurse.  5.30 Call for Urine specimen 6 Oclock supper, one very small lean piece of meat, one large potato -½ Canned pear-½ piece Wheat Bread – 1 small cookie – and tea.  Mother – Don and Mary Ann spend the evening with me.  To bed at 9.30.

17.  Thursday: [Mailed package to Rothbauers 5.10 8 dresses 2 House Coats 2 Ladies Suits 2 Pair Shoes Insured parcel #6720.  My blood pressure is 110.] Frank and Lois Blechl 442 Otter St. are wedded 9 years.  Frank is one of our motor cycle officers.  Woke up during night, but it was time to get up, it was 10.15 P.M.  Woke again at 1¹⁰ A.M. and 4 A.M.  Up at 6.15 A.M.  Attended 7¹⁵ Mass.  Father Sladek.  Sisters are having retreat about 40 attended 7¹⁵ Mass.  Had breakfast at 9 A.M. about 9³⁰ Bill Wagner and Nyal Scheuerman are in.  Another Blood Specimen is taken by a nurse at 10 A.M.  Dr. Koehler takes Cardiogram 10.30 Nurse takes Chest X Ray –Another Nurse gives me 600000 Units Penicillin.  At 11 A.M. I’m home.  Spend the afternoon at the store back to the hospital at 7 P.M.  Donald spends the evening with me until 10 P.M. 

Com.  Sacred Heart of Jesus

18.  Friday: To 7.15 Mass Father Sladek.  Doctors Wegner and Scheuerman stopped in to see me.  Sister Capistrana stopped in for a visit.  She tells me that Joan Diley is doing office work has paid back for tuition. ___ Wollangk is also out and will have to pay back her tuition.  Visited Bill Borman, met Dr. Joe Kronzer.  Learn from Sister the Darky Nurse is Dorothy Jones, St. Louis, will make a very fine nurse.  To operating room at 10.30 back about 12 Noon.  The folks are over when I’m back in my room, I was still knocked out.  Don visited this afternoon – mother – Mary Ann tonite (Supper: Pea Soup and Tea)

Com.  Sacred Heart of Mary

19.  Saturday: Did not get to Mass this morning.  I’m still a little groggy.  Don is over with the mail.  We visited Doctor Louis Graber.  He is still unable to sit up.  He is looking forward to a favorable report on X Rays to be taken Monday.  Also visited Mrs. Mary Steckbauer, Frank’s mother.  She has been at the hospital since Oct. 5.  My noon meal; A sample potato – broth –small meat – tea – custard.  Don and family to the cottage this afternoon to take off shutters etc.  Annie Heip and Mother are my afternoon visitors.  This evening Don – Arlene – Mother –Mary Ann.

20.  Sunday: [Could not take Mrs. Jungwirth to church today.  Frank took her.  She insisted he take her past our house.] To 8 oclock Mass this morning. Surprized to see folks like Herb and Bee Wall there. The Sisters retreat ends this morning. Father Sladek is in to see me this morning. Looked up my friend Sister Iraneaea (Irene). Had a somewhat short visit as the folks are here to take me home. Had her come out to see Don's family; she is much impressed, she loves the children. Well Im home for the noon meal, feels good to be back, after our meal to Eddie Weisheipl's for another meal. “Tommie” made his First Communion. Couldn't let him down. They had plenty of company. Tommie gets a puppy from Uncle Oliver Stillman.

21.  Monday: Well I’m home for a day of rest, took care of the store mail here.  Norm Brown is over as usual, rather surprized to learn of my dental surgery so soon.

22.  Tuesday: Kept appointment with Dr. Luebke at 10.00 AM.  He took out the stitches, thinks the gums are healing as well as can be expected.  Then over to Dr. Norm Kleinschmit to look me over.  Tells me to come back in 10 days.  I’m on the job this afternoon and part of the evening.  Thres has a table of cards at the Columbus Club, Maxine – Emma – Annie Heip and herself.  Robert Drexler 706 – 5th Street. was found dead in his home this morning.  A cerebral hemorrhage is believed to have caused his death.  Born Dec. 25 – 1907.  Brother to Thres Polier – Emma Fenzl – John Frank – Joe Drexler.

23.  Wednesday: [Mrs. Anna Jungwirth found dead in her home.] Took Mother and Emma Lemke to the cottage, for a day of house cleaning and putting on screens.  It is quite cool, temperature at 42 this morning.  Joe Weisheipl enters Wood Veterans Hospital for treatment.  He seems to be suffering from liver or gall bladder trouble.  Cork and his mother Annie Heip are with him for the day.  Mary Kriz phoned us the sad news that our good friend Mrs. Anna Youngwirth 1516 Michigan Street was found dead in a chair at her home this morning.  We had been taking her to Mass with us Sundays for a long time.

24.  Thursday: [M 12 M] Little Donnie is 4 years old today.  He gets a haircut this morning and what do you suppose Little Markie gets his first haircut in the barbershop from Melvin Jansen.  Mother is not feeling up to par, so Donnie brings his presents to our house to show them.  Mrs. Walter Pommerening passed away unexpectedly at Mercy yesterday morning at 4.15.  Maiden name Esther Marx.  Married Walter November 1908 Mother to Fern Zobel and Harold.

25.  Friday: [M 3 M] This afternoon to Marquardt funeral home to pay last respects to Esther Pommerening.  Her husband Walter tells me he is at the Alexian Brothers Home, he is quite lonesome there.  This evening to Sitter’s where the Rosary is said for Mrs. Anna Jungwirth.  Met several of her daughters.

26.  Saturday: [M 12 M] Attended funeral of Mrs. Jungwirth.  Had Mrs. Anna Hetzel –Mrs. Julia Jungwirth – Mrs. Frank Robl with us.  Laid to rest in Riverside Cemetery.  Father Schorn conducted the services.  This afternoon we take a drive to the cottage.  Don and family are out.  Don and Arlene give the grass its first trim of the season.  Had visitors at my office this evening.  Sisters Alverna and Vera are in to see how I look without teeth.  They are in a kidding mood.  Art Mueller – Margaret and Kathy spend the day in Milwaukee.

27.  Sunday: To 7³⁰ Hi Mass, but without Mrs. Jungwirth, seemed we should be picking her up as usual.  We will be missing her for a long time.  Father Schorn speaks on the fifth commandment “Thou shallt not kill.” Worked only this morning.  Matt Drescler is over for short visit this evening. 

Com.  Anna Jungwirth

28.  Monday: [M 3 M] Norman Brown brings a "ice box pie" for me. He spends the noon luncheon with us. Mother treats with pig hocks, dumplings and sauer kraut.  This evening Mother and I to Hrnaks for flowers and took them to the graves of her dad, mother, Mary, Brother Ted, and also my parents Stanislaus Jarosch and Katherine Holzbauer. This afternoon I attended Cemetery Board Meeting. We vote to buy a Grave Digger.

29.  Tuesday: [M 12 M] To the cottage with Ed Radke this morning.  Ed checks our heater and finds the element is not working.  Joe E. Drexler 729-19th Street died this noon at his home.  Born Oct. 13 – 1900.  Married Helen Gorny Oct. 16 – 1923.  Assembler at Oshkosh Motor Truck.  Brother to Thres Polier – John – Frank – Carl.  Good friend of Father Alphonse Wagner, Usher also at St. Vincents.  Arthur Floether 26 Winnebago St. passed away yesterday 4.45 PM at home.  I understand he had an operation for rupture – also had Ulcer trouble.  Was a retired policeman.  Born March 26 – 1888.  Married Frieda Muza April 7 – 1920.  Brother to William – Eldor at the Sec. Bank.

30.  Wednesday: [I was initiated into 4th Degree K of C 35 years ago today May 30-21] Vic and Laura Delwiche are married 15 years.  Its a quiet memorial day.  Threatening clouds with a heavy downpour this afternoon.  I took the folks out riding about town this afternoon.  Harry Simpson died this morning at home 403 – 17th at 5.15.  We older folks at the store remember him running a barber shop on Oregon Street when Radke’s Electric Shop is located.  To the South of them was A.B. Dye’s Photo Gallery.  He was stamp clerk at the Post Office for 28 years.

31.  Thursday: [1 RLF   1 R Joe Drexler] Took a drive to Berlin this morning, and this afternoon to the cottage to check if our water heater is operating satisfactorily.  Marge Haverty is her own chauffeur today.

Diary of Alfred E. Potter April, 1956

01.  Sunday: [De Soto hit 52000 miles today.] To 7³⁰ Low Mass at St. Vincents. Had Mrs. Jungwirth with us. Father Schorn very pleased with the turnout at the Holy Week Services. Worked from 9 to 12³⁰ then took Donald's family with us to the Raulf Hotel for 1 oclock Dinner. The children are very comical especially little Mark. The family spent the afternoon with us and the Felkers spent the evening at their place. Thres, Mary Ann, and myself took in the movie “Marty.” It's a 4 Academy Awards Picture starring Ernest Borgnine and Betsy Blair. William Holden and Jennifer Jones star in “Love Is a Many Splendored Thing.”

Com.  Thanksgiving for our Redemption

02.  Monday: I attended 6⁴⁵ A.M. Mass Father Schorn.  Thres was sleeping so well, she did not hear me get up and go away.  Had a card from the Norman Browns, telling about the bad time they had getting to Chicago last Wednesday.  Card came from the Smokie Mountain region Tennessee.  We miss Norm at the Monday noon meal, he said we should keep his seat at the table warm for him.  Thres plays cards at Louise Zentners this afternoon.  This evening she is at the Christian Mothers meeting St. Vincents.  

Com.  Katherine Holzbauer

03.  Tuesday: [M 9 M] This is the big day, do we build a new High School on the Walnut Street sight?  Tonight when the election returns are in will tell the story.  To Kiwanis Club, no special program a lot of talk about taking nonvoters to the polls, this means people who should have voted and did not.  A Kiwanis idea.  Temperature up to 76° this afternoon. A tornado hits Berlin about 1⁴⁰ P.M.  I tried to get in touch with Harry, all circuits closed.  Attended Cemetery Board Meeting.  Nothing important came up.  Thres to So. Side B.M. Auxiliary potluck supper, cards and White Elephant Sale.  Lots of fun she reports

04.  Wednesday: Mrs. Laura Church passed away yesterday, widow of William Church – partner in the old “Church Brothers Fair” Main Street.

05.  Thursday: [Dr. Grabers family in auto accident at Hahira Georgia] Thres Fretschl has a birthday, she is 69.

06.  Friday: Just learned this noon that we forgot to send Thres Fretschl a birthday card.  An assailant hurled acid into Victor Riesel’s face yesterday in New York.  Mr. Riesel who is the Crusading “Labor Columnist” for many newspapers may lose his eyesight.  Dr. and Mrs. Louis Graber 235 Hazel Street and three of their 5 children with them were hospitalized yesterday afternoon after an accident at a street intersection in Hahira Georgia about 20 miles north of the Florida State line.  The Grabers were returning from a Florida vacation.

07.  Saturday: Julius La Rosa

08.  Sunday: To 7³⁰ Hi Mass with Holy Name.  Father Milbauer spoke on the 4th Command, “Honor Thy Father and Mother.” Took a drive to the cottage with Bill Mauritz to look over the boat house situation, if it can be enlarged or must it be torn down entirely.  This afternoon to Berlin to look over tornado damage, got into traffic jam took an hour from Waukau out to Berlin.  Harry showed us around to some of the places.  Damaged very extensive.  Sent Thres Fretschl a belated birthday card.

Com.  Our Spiritual Director.

09.  Monday: [M 3 M] No Holy Mass at 6⁴⁵ this A.M.  Thres and me to Holy Communion.  Meeting at the store at 8³⁰ with Art – Norbert – Fred and Joe.  Met with Vic Fink at Brand’s at 9⁴⁵ had Donald and Eddie Heip along.  Vic will be over tomorrow about plans.  Received a letter from Resi Kroll Rothbauer in Parsberg.  Letter and check arrived OK.  “A Coincidence” –she had a dream the night before she received a letter and money from us.  Rexall meeting at Town Grill tonight.  Bill Kelly was of find speaker and entertainer. Attendance 38 all. 

Com.  Mike Eichman

10.  Tuesday: [Rose Mauritz 54 today.     M 6 M] To Kiwanis luncheon.  Carl Thorson a juggler proves to be a good entertainer.  Attended Perpetual Help Devotion this evening and then to Rosary at “Fiss and Bills” for Bill Schaefer.  Bishop Grellinger led in prayer.  Thres entertains Thres Fretschl – Emma Lemke – Annie Heip this evening.  Rose Mauritz has another birthday, she is 54.

11.  Wednesday: Vic Fink and Don are over this morning to our South Store to take measurements for merchandising changes.  Donald and Eddie Heip help.  Mother and I paid last respects to John and Jennie Hables mother Mrs. Hansetter.  Then we take a drive to Berlin to visit with Harry and Agnes.  We get a good look at all of the tornado damage and a good perspective of the area it covered.  Had dinner at the “Wonder Bar” in Green Lake, a fine place to eat.  Met Kurt and Margaret Knopf at the “Wonder Bar.”

12.  Thursday: Father Joe Ahearn is celebrating his 40th year as a priest.  I’m not sure but I think he and Father Schorn were ordained at the same time.  Marge Haverty and Adeline Steinhilber are at Milwaukee today attended a beautician clinic at the Wisconsin Hotel sponsored by Irv Mettelman – Hudnut Co..  J.H. Evans Principal of Oshkosh Hi School announced this morning that he has accepted a position as Biology Instructor at the new Janesville Wis. High School.  Kinkers Corners Tavern a Fond du Lac County landmark is destroyed by fire.  Loss 80000.

13.  Friday: Serra Club meets at the Athearn this noon, about 30 attended.  Father Schorn spoke on the “Marriage Court.” After listening to his explanation we learned it is pretty difficult to get rid of your spouse in a Catholic Court, so may just as well keep them.  Mother – Mary Ann and me to K.C. Club this evening.  Have not been there since before Lent.  Dr. and Mrs. Louis Graber are flown home today from Florida in a special plane by Steve Wittman Dr. Graber’s injuries skull fracture – fractured shoulder – pelvis – hip and broken nose.

14.  Saturday: Forty years ago today Father Louis Schorn was ordained to the priesthood.  Donald – Arlene and Mary Ann are in Milwaukee today attending the wedding of Doctor Robert E Gerth and Nancy Spence – Saint Robert Church – Shorewood Wis.  Visited Matt Drexler this morning.  He is getting along quite well.  He got a job for his Sister Caroline at Buckstaff’s.  She had been at the Diamond Match over 35 years.  Also visited with Rose Mauritz for about ½ hour.  Don Arlene Mary Ann in town at 6⁰⁰.  Took them to Hi K for dinner.

15.  Sunday: Father Schorn celebrates Hi Mass of Thanksgiving at 7¹⁵.  We picked up Mrs. Anna Jungwirth for church.  Worked this morning.  This afternoon Bill Mauritz and Jo Ann came in.  Jo Ann is learning to drive.  She and Mary Ann to the Oshkosh to see Bing Crosby –Mitzi Gaynor – Don O’Connor in “Everything Goes.” Mother and I to reception for Father Schorn in the School Recreation.  I delivered magazines to the Sisters and had a nice visit with them.  Mother came later – tonight she is at K.C. Club House in the final playoffs of the card tournament sponsored by Council of Catholic Women. 

Com.  Father Schorn

16.  Monday: [Albert Koplitz died 2.15 P.M. Mercy.  Born July 11 – 1876   M 3 M] Norm Brown is back with us for Monday luncheon.  Fred Baumgartner – Loretta Art and Margaret Mueller –Thres and myself to Madison to Rexall banquet in honor of John Bowles new President of the Rexall Division.  Our table Mr. and Mrs. Uhl dean of pharmacy, Mr. Mrs. Hemmer Appleton –George Davis Vice President St. Louis.  Met many friends there –Joe Leiter –Warren Geehrs Milwaukee – Mr. Mrs. Oscar Rennebohm – Wilbur Booke – Madison Mr. Mrs. Dick Milbauer Clintonville – Kenny Sepersky – De Pere.  We stole the show when I presented Mr. Bowles with the size 62 Oshkosh B Gosh Overalls.  He told me they are going back to Rexall Square Los Angeles with him.

17.  Tuesday: [M 9 M] To Kiwanis luncheon and almost fell asleep listening to a talk on Automatic Vending Machines.  Snow flurries are plentiful today and the Baseball Season opens.  The Milwaukee Braves defeat the Chicago Cubs 6 to 0.  Temperature 39° attendance 39600.  I attended M of Perpetual Help Devotion and then picked up Thres for rosary and to pay last respects to Rose Hugger.  Also attended Cemetery Board meeting this afternoon.

18.  Wednesday: Thres entertains Theresa Siebold – Mary Beck – Mayme Haidlinger this afternoon.  Charles Forbush 823 South Park Ave. passed away yesterday afternoon at 3.30.  He was born in Fond du Lac Oct. 17 – 1869.  Came to Oshkosh in 1880.  When I was a boy the Forbushes lived just west of the Wisconsin Central Railway on 13th Street.  I lived just two doors east of the Railroad at that time.  Charles was brakeman for Bill Mossman at that time.  Paid last respects to Al Koplitz.

19.  Thursday: [M 12 M] Grace Kelly and Prince Rainier III are wedded at the altar of St. Nicholas Cathedral at Monaco.  The Prince is 32 Grace is 26.  Kept an appointment with Dr. Norman Kleinschmit at 1³⁰.  He takes pictures to plan if all or part of my teeth are to come out.  I learned of the last time I was there for dental extraction was May 26-1954.  Albert Koplitz laid to rest.  Solemn requiem – Father Vic Kandy Deacon.  Pallbearers Ed and Frank Binder –Ed Prellwitz –Art Ostertag –Erwin Mohr – Art Hill Jr.

20.  [1 AMTG]

21.  Saturday: Mary Jo Schraa who has been working at our West Store is married to Bradley Jones at St. Peter’s this morning at 9⁰⁰ oclock by Father Paul Vanden Hogan.  Marcella Polishinski is married to Robert Schmiedel at St. Vincents Rectory this morning at 11 Oclock by Father Schorn.  Eddie Bouygues former manager at the Athearn and Raulf Hotels died last night at Tucson Arizona of a heart attack.  He was a native of Oshkosh, 54 years old.  Eddie Rankels wife Martha Beglinger passed away at 8⁴⁰ this morning at Mercy.  Born April 19 – 1892.  Married May 27 – 1920.

22.  Sunday: To 7³⁰ Hi Mass – Father Milbauer.  Had Mrs. Jungwirth with us. 

Com.  Albert Koplitz

23.  Monday: Mother is with the S.S.B.M. Auxiliary Card Club today.  They have their banquet a little sooner this year at Ostertag’s Tea Room as Mrs. Ostertag is discontinuing business as of May 1.  The place will be converted into an “Old Ladies Home.” Norm Brown – Mary Ann and I have our luncheon at home.  I’m up to Dr. Will Wagner’s office for exam today.  He advises anasthesia, no local, when I have my teeth taken out.  Mother plays Bingo at Aunt Annie Heip’s tonight and I attend 4th Degree dinner and meeting with Ed Binder.  Ed Ostertag (91) from Appleton is with us.  Met Clem Schlaefer – Grand Master.

24.  Tuesday: Little Debbie breaks out with measles today. She was home from school yesterday. To Kiwanis luncheon, had a very fine program. Autos from Aurora, Ill. showed color slides of a trip to the Grand Canyon. Little Donnie and Markie get shots from Ray Wagner this afternoon. Harry and Agnes Kujawa are our dinner guests today. Took them to the Town Grill, our waitress Mrs. Pettibone. After the dinner to South Park Junior Hi where we enjoy a concert by the United States Navy Band, conductor, Charles Brendler.

25.  Wednesday: Carl Traeger was named the new principal at the Oshkosh Hi School last night by the board of education. He has been assistant principal since 1950, succeeds J. Harwood Evans, resigned.

26.  Thursday: “Fuzzy” Kinateder makes what may be his last visit with us today.  The Kinateders will be moving about the first of May.

27.  Friday: Attend Serra Club luncheon at the Athearn.  Bill Gengler is our speaker, a very good talk, but a little deep for me.  Had our evening meal at the K.C. Club.

28.  Saturday: [M 9 M    G 4 M] Up at 8 A.M. temperature 30°- not pleasant.

29.  Sunday: [TG] Up at 4³⁰ A.M. note it is raining.  Took Mary Ann to Don’s at 7 Oclock, it is raining quite heavy, picked up Mrs. Jungwirth attended 7¹⁵ Hi Mass – Father Schorn speaks on the 4th Commandment “How it affects us toward Government.” When service is over we find it is snowing and sleeting, later heavy snow until about 2³⁰ this afternoon.  Father Schorn announces the passing of Bob Genol.  He passed away last evening at 6¹⁰ unexpectedly of a heart attack. 

Com.  Hedwig Hansetter

30.  Monday: [Kinateders moved today.] The sun is out, the day is bright and clear and the snow is going fast.  Our “Rexall One Cent Sale” begins today.  Attended appreciation dinner at Catholic War Vets Club House.  Guests Charles Barnard – Charles Van Beynen – Harry Schmitt – Ray Kramer – and A.E. Potter.  Thres plays cards at Elsie Zentners.  Record breaking scores are registered by Mary Fenzl 81 by Alma Thobaben 79.  Next high 58 Thres gets 4th prize on a tie.  Aloys and Anna Kinateder moved today from our neighborhood 704 ½ - 15^th St.  They have been our neighbors for 22 years.

Diary of Alfred E. Potter March, 1956

01.  Thursday: [M 6 M] Latest Joke: Grace Kelly was’nt in any hurry to marry.  She was saving herself for a “Ranier” day.

02.  Friday: Today is Our Holy Father’s Pope Pius XII birthday.  He has completed 80 years of a strenuous and holy life.  In coincidence he was elected to the papacy 17 years ago today.

03.  Saturday: Francis Lamb is over today about changes recommended by the Federal Income Tax Bureau in regard to Mueller Potter Profit Sharing Plan.

04.  Sunday: Forty Hours begins at St. Vincents this morning.  Father Schorn has the 7³⁰ Hi Mass no sermon, only a letter from Bishop Bona in regard to next Sundays collection for the Catholic Relieve Service for foreign countries.  Worked this morning 9³⁰ to 12.30.  This afternoon to Holy Hour 2 to 3, down to work at 4 to 7, to evening service with mother at 7¹⁵.  Father Ivan Capuchin.  Father has a very interesting sermon on Faith and entire submission to God. 

Com.  Honor Blessed Sacrament

05.  Monday: We have our regular meeting at the store this morning.  According to report by the American Cancer Society, one of every four Americans is afflicted with cancer.  Cancer kills approximately 685 Americans every day.

06.  Tuesday: To Kiwanis luncheon, it is sports day; we have the athletic teachers such as John Nevers, Ronnie Nord, also the Hi School Basketball Seniors and Juniors from the new Webster Stanley who are presented with the sportsmanship trophy by Jim Bruins. Attended evening service and served as Honor Guard with the 4th Degree. Ted Bouchette was our leader. Father Ivan spoke on Deep Humility and thus ended another 40 Hour Devotion.

07.  Wednesday: Mary Ann’s birthday, she is 26 and we are greeted by a heavy snow on the ground.  It is very windy and most of the night.  Don’s family and JoAnne Mauritz are with us for dinner in the evening.  A lot more snow tonite.

08.  Thursday: Well every now and then you see folks out busy shoveling snow, about 4 inches fell during the night.  Gov. Walter Kohler has announced that he will not seek re-election or any State Post.  My rear top left molar throws up quite a fuss it seems to be infected quite badly.

09.  Friday: More snow this morning.  Francis Lamb is over for more work on our income tax report.  Steve Kircher calls for me and for my first “Serra” luncheon and program at the Athearn.  Father Becker from Menasha show slides of the Eucharistic Congress at Rio Janeiro Brazil last July.  It was very interesting lookin and listenin.  Ed Binder – Harry Schmitt – Walter Patri leave for Hot Springs.

10.  Saturday: [M 9 M] You know what day this is. It's pay day, that is its the day to pay monthly bills if you wish to discount them, in our case that means a savings of about 800 to 900 dollars. A snow storm which turns into the worst blizzard we have had this winter begins around 5 Oclock this afternoon. When I took Marge Haverty home at six it was going pretty strong. Later at night it snowed, with thunder and lightning thrown in for good measure. This was most unusual with temperature at 20°.

11.  Sunday: A good share of the Oshkosh population are out with a snow shovel this morning.  Don and Arlene picked Mother and me up for 7³⁰ Hi Mass while Mary Ann took care of the children.  Our sidewalks and drives are so drifted with snow, we could not use them until this afternoon.  Mother and I walked to St. John’s for Rosary and Benediction at 2 oclock.  Saw a very interesting story on Television this evening “Conspiracy in Hearts” a story were Austrian Nuns shelter Jewish children and orphans from concentration camps and eventually provide new parents in Palestine. 

Com.  John Loughgrin

12.  Monday: [T   M 3 M] From today and during this entire week, we have Services at St. Vincents in the basement of the church. The communion rail is being lowered to floor level.

13.  Tuesday: [M 6 M] Things are beginning to look more normal again, the St.s are in pretty fair shape.  To Kiwanis luncheon.  Gus Keller, Governor, and Mitchell District Governor are with us.  Our table Jim Ames – Ethan Pfefferkorn –Fran Van Keursen– Earl Burdick – Mel Kleinschmit and me.

14.  Wednesday: Paul Gomoll has a new post office box for me this morning, number 976 old number 1039.  This one is much more convenient to use.  Had a note from Father Wittman today, telling that to Msgr. John Dopp a classmate of ours passed away of a heart attack February 28th.  He was at Ft Wayne Indiana.  He was my catcher in baseball at Mt Calvary.  Drove out to Rasmussen’s this afternoon for apples and Vegetables.  This evening to Winneconne to visit Father Victor Kandy and Lovie.  We are just in time for evening Rosary and Benediction.

15.  Thursday: Mother and I to St. Johns Church for Requiem Mass, for Louis and Lizzie Hannes.  Matt Mertz is 89 today.  I sent him a spiritual bouquet for birthday present.

Com.  Matt Mertz

16.  Friday: Attended St. Johns Requiem at 8 oclock.  To work by 9³⁰. Mother is getting a Permanent this morning.

17.  Saturday: [M 12 M] Had to get out my special Green tie today “St. Patrick’s Day you know.  According to the papers, the East that is New York –Pennsylvania and other Coastal States are being battered by a severe winter storm.  Snowfall measured from 4 to 12 inches.  Hi winds whipped the snow at 25 to 35 miles an hour with gusts up to 60 miles an hour.  Annual Milwaukee Sentinel Sports Show opens at 1⁰⁰ oclock this afternoon at the Arena and Auditorium.

18.  Sunday: [Pat Faust birthday] Annual Corporate Communion Knights of Columbus at Sacred Heart Church.  Father Charles O’Hara assistant to the President of Marquette University gives a very good sermon on “Pride and Vain Glory.” A delicious breakfast served by the ladies of Sacred Heart Parish.  Mother attends “Day of Recollection” at St. Marys.  Mary Ann and me to “Stations of the Cross” St. Vincents at 2 P.M. then to the store for 3 hours of work.  Tonite we attend the “Oshkosh Civic Symphony” at Webster Stanley Auditorium.  Marilyn Schroeder this years “Young Guest Singer.”

Com.  John Loughgrin

19.  Monday: To 6⁴⁵ Mass, Father Schorn.  Services will be in the basement chapel for another week.  Surprising to see how many people attend this early mass.  Norm Brown is with us for the noon meal.  Mother leaves at 1⁰⁰ today to play cards at Dess Wirtz’s.  Dess serves bridge dessert before play, and it is delicious special home made pies.  They now serve home made pies at the restaurant.  Jerry Salzscheider (Nyal) is in for short visit today.  Mother and I attended Apostolate Meeting.  Miss Brady from Manitowoc gives an excellent talk on “Foster Homes.”

Com.  Honor St. Joseph

20.  Tuesday: [M 12 M] Believe it or not, it may not look like it and it does not feel like it, but according to the calendar spring is here since 9.40 A.M..  I attended Mass alone, Thres feels indisposed.  Attended Kiwanis luncheon, the talk on Vocational Guidance was not too interesting to me.  Fred Allen, born John Florence Sullivan, is laid to rest this morning.  Services St. Malachy’s Cath. Church, New York.  Thres has luncheon and plays cards at Columbus Club.  We attend evening devotion.  Text of Sermon by Father Schorn “And they crucified Him.”

Com.  Fred Allen

21.  Wednesday: Thres and I to 6.45 Mass.  Temperature at 30° at 6.30 A.M.  Com.  Theresa Siebold

22.  Thursday: [M 12 M] I’m late at getting up this morning 8³⁰.  Attended business men’s luncheon as guests of Bill Gengler.  Thres plays cards at Elsie Kirsch’s tonite.

23.  Friday: [TVG    M 3 M] I attended 6.45 Mass.  Thres with the “Christian Mothers” to 8 Oclock Hi Mass by Father Schorn.  It is their annual corporate Communion.  She also attended the breakfast.  We are greeted with snow, and rather wet, which lasts through most of the day.  To “Serra Club” at Alexian Brothers today.  Serve a fine meal “Brother Eugene Ratley gave a very interesting talk about the life of a Brother in a Religious Community.

Com.  Aunt Mary.

24.  Saturday: [Zero temperature    M 9 M    G 4 M] Anton Frůwirth is in to see me this morning.  He tells me his father and mother are due in this country April 15.  He is going to see Father Murphy at Clintonville this afternoon.  Father Murphy was instrumental in getting the folks over.  Arthur Redmann is operated this morning.  His gall bladder removed by Dr. W^m Clark.  Temperature down to zero this morning.

25.  Sunday: Foresters Easter Communion at St. Johns 7³⁰ Mass.  The Mass is a High Mass according to the new order of Holy Week Services.  This afternoon to Lenten Service at St. Johns. 

Com.  Arthur H. Mueller

26.  Monday: Had our regular meeting at the store this morning.  Heard from Donald the Matt Drexler had a heart attack Saturday evening, took a drive out to see him and learn he will have to stay down for a few weeks.  Dr. Joe Kronzer is taking care of him.  Norman Brown is with us for the noon meal.  He will not be with us for two Mondays as he is taking his family to Florida Wednesday morning in their new De Soto Station Wagon.  Thres entertains Jennie Miller – Annie Heip –Mary Notzke at cards this evening and I attend Fourth Degree dinner and meeting, met ___ Gonnering the new superintendent at County Hospital.

27.  Tuesday: [M 6 M] Mother and me to 6.45 Mass this morning.  The Communion rail is now lowered and almost completed, makes the Sanctuary much larger and better looking.  To Kiwanis luncheon.  Frances Cassard entertained with songs and a talk on Japan.  She has lived with a Japanese family for some years and is well versed on Japanese customs.  To Perpetual Help and Lenten Devotion this evening.  Weather is not too pleasant, rather like a blizzard and a cold raw wind.  Sent a letter and money to Resi Kroll Rothbauer.  Had a call (phone) from Punky Rhimes, Portage in regard to U.D. Wholesale. 

Com.  Gale Unser

28.  Wednesday: The Norman Brown family leave for Florida this morning and its a terrible morning for driving.  Ice and sleet a plenty

29.  Thursday: No morning Service.  Evening High Mass at 730 and also Holy Communion.  Church is packed with people. 

Com.  Thanksgiving Passion Divine Savior

30.  Friday: Business is close from 12 to 3 PM.  I attended “Seven Last Words Devotion” from 1 to 3 oclock.  Thres is too tired to attend.  Both of us attended 5 P.M. Service and Holy Communion.  This is the first time in our lives we have had the privilege to receive “Holy Communion” on Good Friday.  Service was very well attended.  No Solid Food for Communicants from 2 P.M.. 

Com.  Thanksgiving to the Crucified Savior.

31. Saturday: No morning Services.  I visited Matt Drexler this afternoon.  He is able to get up for very short intervals, is learning to follow his special diet.  Johnny and Joey are busy with dying Easter Eggs.  Matt appreciates visits very much.  Also visited Aunt Annie Weisheipl.  She is quite down-hearted when I come.  She is’nt over the shock from the Marge and Joe separation.  We attend the Holy Saturday Services.  We are very impressive lasts from 7³⁰ to 9³⁰ and Father Schorn looks very tired.  I substituted for Harvey Zweifel for Serra. 

Com.  Welfare “Serra International”