St. Anthony Parish Celebrates 2024 Hall of Fame Inductees

St. Anthony of Padua Parish celebrated its 2024 Hall of Fame inductees at the Spring Gala held on Saturday, March 1 at the Keller Convention Center. This year's honorees include Eric Zeller, Bill Farrey, Roy and Kate Weber, Andrew Gardewine, and Dan Niebrugge.

The evening began with Mass at St. Anthony of Padua Church, followed by a cocktail reception and dinner before the induction ceremony. The event drew community members together to celebrate individuals who have contributed significantly to St. Anthony parish and schools.

"This annual celebration recognizes those who exemplify the values and dedication that make our parish and school community exceptional," said Pastor Fr. Peter Harman. "Each of our inductees has left a lasting positive impact on St. Anthony through their service, achievements, and commitment."

The 2024 St. Anthony Hall of Fame inductees were recognized in the following categories:

• Alumni: Eric Zeller (Class of '91), who coached boys and girls cross country for eight years at St. Anthony and has been active in numerous parish activities. Zeller, a graduate of the University of Illinois in Chicago and Washington University's Olin Business School, currently serves as president at Crossroads Bank.

• Faculty, Staff, or Coach: Bill Farrey (Class of '73) has been a scorekeeper for over 40 years for both high school and junior high boys and girls basketball games. Farrey was previously inducted into the Illinois Basketball Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 2004.

• Friends of St. Anthony: Roy and Kate Weber, dedicated parish members since 1977 who have served in numerous roles including Eucharistic Minister, Lector, Funeral Mass Server, choir members, Sacristan, and Bible Study facilitators.

• Athlete or Team: Andrew Gardewine, 2014 800-meter Illinois State Champion whose athletic accomplishments include multiple state qualifications and championships in track and field, as well as recognition in basketball. Gardewine continued his success at McKendree University as a three-time Great Lakes Valley Conference Champion.

• Booster Club Member of the Year: Dan Niebrugge, recognized for his years of dedication to the St. Anthony Booster Club, including serving as president, creating an advisory board, developing a tracking system for transportation, and contributing to numerous sports facilities updates.

The St. Anthony of Padua Hall of Fame was created to honor those who have left a positive mark on St. Anthony parish and schools. The Booster Club Member of the Year recognition celebrates exceptional contributions of time, talent, and resources to the athletic programs of St. Anthony schools.