A Circle Unbroken

Jerry Plantikow (’64) never expected to see his class ring again. More than 60 years had passed since he left Fox Valley Lutheran High School, worked in the mill, and then was drafted to serve in Vietnam. The ring that once linked him to his high school days disappeared somewhere overseas—one of many personal items lost in transit during his year supplying front-line companies with what they needed to survive.

His story might have ended there if not for a simple conversation at the Wisconsin Veterans Home at King. While volunteering, Dan Naylor of Immanuel Lutheran in Waupaca learned how proud Jerry remained of his FVL education, even after all these years, and how deeply he regretted losing his ring. Dan reached out to FVL with the goal of helping to honor Jerry in a meaningful way, and even offered to cover the cost of a replacement.

From that moment, something special began to take shape.

Last May, members of FVL’s Student Council traveled to the Veterans Home in King to surprise Jerry with a brand-new class ring. He had no idea what was coming. When the ring was handed to him, it bridged six decades of memories, —connecting an eager young graduate with the seasoned hero who has faithfully served his country.

The room filled quickly with smiles, stories, and emotion. Students gathered around Jerry, listening to his experiences at FVL and his time in Vietnam. The moment was as meaningful for them as it was for him.

“Such an amazing experience! Getting to see the surprise on Jerry’s face was so special,” said senior Ellason Popp. “The smile on his face will be unforgettable.”

For Dan, who had sparked the idea, the moment was everything he hoped it would be. “It was wonderful having Jerry’s relatives, our pastor, the very supportive staff and King members, and all of the FVL representatives present.”

For the students, the visit became a living lesson in gratitude, sacrifice, and the impact of a Christ-centered education—one that spans generations.

“I am so grateful I got to be part of it,” shared senior Katelyn Grady. “To see the impact FVL had on Jerry—even 61 years later—helps me appreciate the school I get to walk into every day.”

Throughout the morning, Jerry’s gratitude showed in every smile. “This is great! Thank you for the surprise; I appreciate it very much,” he said.

It became clear that this moment was about far more than giving a ring—it was completing a circle. The day was marked by honor, remembrance, and the quiet joy that rises when past and present meet. We were grateful to stand with Jerry and witness a bond that, even after six decades, remains unbroken.

— Cody Bohl
FVL Mission Advancement Counselor