Lonnie and Anita Lemmon
Lonnie and Anita Lemmons’ connection to Holy Cross Catholic School spans nearly four decades. After moving back to the Kansas City area in 1988, they enrolled their children at Holy Cross, where they became deeply involved in both the school and parish. Throughout their years as parents of Holy Cross students, Lonnie and Anita held numerous roles, including positions with the PTO, coaching CYO teams, and contributing to the school’s growth. Lonnie served as Athletic Director and played a key role in organizing the popular "Twilight Madness" event. Anita’s contributions included a 28-year tenure as the school secretary. The Lemmons’ dedication to Catholic education remains evident, with three of their grandchildren now attending Holy Cross, and their daughter Stefanie continuing the tradition of service in the school office. Their legacy of service and love for the Holy Cross community will never be forgotten.
Brigid Burgett
A member of the Holy Cross Parish since 1973, Brigid Burgett has dedicated countless hours to serving the community where she and her family have celebrated sacraments. As a teacher of 2nd grade CCD and a leader in marriage preparation with her late husband Rod Pikus, Brigid’s passion for guiding others through their spiritual journeys has had a lasting impact. In 2002, she helped form the Mother Teresa Circle, a vibrant group with incredible success organizing retreats, teas, fashion shows, and dinners to support the entire parish community. Brigid has also been involved in serving funeral meals, Lenten dinners, visiting nursing homes, supporting Women of Holy Cross and assisting with various parish functions. Currently serving as President of St. Teresa Circle, Brigid’s tireless service, especially her work ironing altar linens, reflects her deep love for the parish and its mission. She is truly grateful for the remarkable parishioners she has worked with over the years, and for the opportunity to continue serving the Holy Cross community.
Sue and †Tony Rinella
As founding members of the Church of the Holy Cross, Sue and †Tony Rinella helped establish the parish community from its earliest days. They became involved in numerous aspects of parish life, with Tony serving as a lector, Eucharistic minister, CCD teacher, Serra Club member and active supporter of perpetual adoration, while Sue was known for her kindness in providing meals to those in need. Together, they raised six children who received their sacraments at Holy Cross, and the family was a fixture at Saturday evening Mass. Following Tony’s passing in 2009, Sue continued to be supported by the Holy Cross community, who remained a source of love and friendship. The Rinellas’ legacy of faith in action continues to inspire their children and the parish.
Janine Obershaw
Janine Obershaw’s journey at Holy Cross began in 1994, when she moved from her beloved Wisconsin and joined the school as a Physical Education teacher and later served as the Athletic Director for the CYO program. Janine’s passion for teaching and athletics has shaped the lives of many students over the past three decades. She has been a steadfast presence in the school’s growth, including the opening of the new gymnasium in 2000, which was a great blessing to the Holy Cross community. As both a parent of two Holy Cross grads and teacher, Janine has been an integral part of the school’s mission, building strong relationships with students, parents, and staff. She is grateful for the opportunity to work in such a supportive and close-knit community and is proud to have seen her own children flourish at Holy Cross.
These Beacons of Light have exemplified what it means to live with faith, service, and love for others. Their contributions to Holy Cross have left an indelible mark on the hearts of all who have been blessed to know them. We thank them for their unwavering dedication and commitment to our shared mission.