On Thursday, May 15, 2025, the Mendel Alumni Association paid tribute to fallen Downers Grove Officer Richard Barth (‘67), who was killed in the line of duty in 1974. In recognition of Officer Barth’s valor and ultimate sacrifice, the association presented $500 checks to two Catholic grammar schools in Downers Grove—St. Joseph’s School and St. Mary of Gostyn School—in his name.

The checks were presented by Andy Youpel, Pat Regan, and Mike Dreznas to the principals of the schools, Christine Kalat of St. Mary of Gostyn School and Beth Cunningham of St. Joseph’s School. Notably, Beth Cunningham’s father, Russ DeBruin, was a member of the Mendel Class of 1962, and Beth proudly wore her father’s Mendel High School ring during the ceremony.

The Mendel Alumni Association received a heartfelt note from Beth Cunningham following the event:

Friday, May 16, 2025
Dear Mike and Members of the Mendel Alumni Association,
Thank you for the generous gift to St. Joseph School in memory of Richard Barth. Your connection to the community and to one another is a testament to Catholic education. I enjoyed sharing stories about Mendel and the connections we have through our families and friends—it really is a small world! Go Monarchs!
I hope you enjoy the pictures.
God Bless,
Beth A. Cunningham
Principal, St. Joseph School
4832 Highland Ave., Downers Grove, IL 60515

This tribute reflects the Mendel Alumni Association’s ongoing commitment to honoring the legacy of its alumni while supporting the broader community.