From left, Father Nicholas Weibl, pastor of Fostoria St. Wendelin; NCEA Catholic Elementary School Distinguished Graduate Award winner Carolyn Baker; and Cathy Krupp, St. Wendelin Elementary school principal. (photo courtesy of Fostoria St. Wendelin School)

The award was presented at a Mass attended by current St. Wendelin students, Mrs. Baker’s nine children and many grandchildren.

The award recognizes significant accomplishments of Catholic elementary school alumni across the country.

Mrs. Baker, a 1945 graduate of St. Wendelin Elementary School, is a homemaker and mother of nine children. A member of the St. Wendelin Rosary Altar Society for 30 years, she has been chairman of the parish funeral dinner committee since its inception 14 years ago.

 “My mother has a heart that is larger than anyone I know, as she is always there in time of need, offering a kind word, sending a card or filling bellies with her delicious food,” says a daughter.

A statement from St. Wendelin says Mrs. Baker “is a model of faith and volunteer service and a fine example of how Catholic schools educate people to become adults who live the ideals and values taught in their Catholic elementary schools. She is a wonderful representation of what we strive to bring to our students here at St. Wendelin Elementary: the simplicity of Christ and the humbleness of His example.”