Larry Mastalish
Occasionally in the Knights of Columbus, a prospective member is pursued, almost hounded, to become a part of the Council.  Such was the case with Larry.  His father-in-law was a Knight and he occasionally talked about some of his experiences.  He especially remembers the social aspect of the Knights.  As far as his relationship to Council 10243, several people had been asking Larry to join up, and he decided he would become a part of the organization after Father Dave Pleier did likewise.  Though he recently came to be a part of the Council, he knows that there were several men urging him to join and he doesn't remember which one actually accomplished the final deed.  He knew that the Knights who were active in the St. Bernard area and he thought it fulfilled a need especially for younger men, to get involved in the Church and in the community.   Another part of Larry's reason for waiting was that he doesn't like to get involved in things in name only, but hopes to become a part of the things that the organization is all about.  He's still feeling his way around the Council, and we look forward to his involvement in the activities of the Council. 

Larry retired ("At least I thought I retired.") in 1994 after 35 years at P & G, where he had been a public affairs manager.  His job involved being a representative to government agencies, community relations, donations, publications and the like.  His retirement came at a time when he had about a year left in his preparation for ordination to the diaconate so it was a good time for him.  His interest in the ordained ministry is long standing.  He recalls the example of his parent and also things back to his younger days growing up in the Goodman/Armstrong Creek area.  Since he attended a public school, religious education came through a couple of weeks with admirable sisters who came to the area to handle religious classes.  As time went on, he was influenced by a variety of people including Father Haessly, Msgr. Borusky, Deacon Ed Gagnon and Deacon Bob Jacqmin.  That all led to his interest in the Diocesan program and ordination as a deacon in May of 1995.  Since his ordination his ministry has included coordinating the baptism program and the preparation couples, scheduling ministry to Bornemann Nursing Home, handling services at the church and the Nursing Home, coordinating the returning Catholics program, handling communion visits to the homebound and visiting hospitals as well as wake services, committals and the like.  A highlight of his career has been the opportunity to baptize three of his grandchildren. 

After serving in the army, Larry attended Green Bay Badger Business College back in the 50's where he met his wife Doris.  They have been married about 43 years now and have two children and five grandchildren.  Doris is involved in parish ministry as well.  She attended most classes with Larry in his preparation for the diaconate and she works with the Elizabeth Ministry at St. Bernard and is also involved in the Catholic Women's Club of Green Bay.  Larry has continued in military service, working in the reserves as an ombudsman.  We are grateful that they have become a part of the Council 10243 family and we look forward to getting to know them through the activities of the Knights. 

September 2002