Alumni Focus - Wilt Feider ('65)

As a member of SCLA's third graduating class, now retired after a long career as an engineer and having served in the Navy, Wilt Feider '65 reflects on the close-knit early community of SCLA. He recalls the experiences that shaped him and the teachers who left a lasting mark, inspiring his curiosity and appreciation for other cultures. Wilt is currently working with fellow alumni and SCLA to organize an "All 60s" reunion that brings together our pioneering alumni.  

What are some of your favorite memories from your time at St. Croix?

In those early years, St. Croix was a really close-knit community and family. Even though the school was new, there were plenty of second-hand items and used equipment, especially the bus, which was hand-pushed on several occasions. Crusader Avenue, Stryker Avenue, and our parking lot were not paved, and so we spent a lot of time pushing cars through snow and mud. We were very social and really liked to hang around together - there were regular "non-sanctioned" events at different students' houses (always chaperoned, of course). We didn't have lockers, but there was a large coat room with some space to put books between classes. This became the "hangout," and many pranks were hatched in that space.

Were there any teachers or staff who had a big impact on you?

Mr. Arlyn Boll - Showed me you can be gentle, but firm.  Also a great example of patience.
Mr. Paul Kock - Made me more aware of world events and the curiosity to dig deeper.
Mr. John Oldfield was a great example of gentle leadership.

What lessons — academic or personal — did you carry with you after graduation?

It was important to me to be curious. I still love going down rabbit holes and learning new things. The history, civics, and current events courses gave me the desire to travel and see other cultures and world locations.

Were you involved in any extracurricular activities or activities that helped shape who you are today?

I became a student council member from the very beginning through graduation, and it started a lifelong path of volunteerism in my church, my workplace, and in the community. We didn't have a huge sports program, but I played varsity baseball and basketball. I don't know if our 0-13 basketball record was ever matched or surpassed (there are different theories on how that shapes your character). I also participated in as many intramural activities as I could. I'm still not one to sit still and relax.

What path did you take after graduating? How did your goals evolve over time?

I started in the civil engineering field, and while I was in the U.S. Navy Seabees, I was responsible for many quality control activities on construction projects. That led to my career as a quality engineer and quality manager in manufacturing facilities. My goals were always to improve our products and our relationships with our customers.

What advice would you give to your high school self or to current students?

Don't be afraid to show your faith in your thoughts, words, and actions. Treat others as you would want them to treat you. Don't give up when things get tough. Regularly tell the people who are close to you how much you love them.