Roger Bacon High School Announces Largest Single Gift in School History, Honoring the Legacy of Alumnus Ronald Amrhein ’51

Roger Bacon High School Announces Largest Single Gift in School History, Honoring the Legacy of Alumnus Ronald Amrhein ’51

Historic $2.8 million estate gift marks the second record-setting commitment in two months and will transform future generations of Spartans.

Roger Bacon High School is proud to announce the receipt of a $2.8 million estate gift from alumnus Ronald "Ron" Amrhein ’51—the largest single gift in the school's history. Ron passed away in 2025, leaving behind a legacy defined by hard work, faith, humility, service, and an unwavering commitment to caring for others.

This historic gift comes just two months after Roger Bacon High School announced what was then the largest gift in school history from alumnus Ronald Dauwe ’53. The gift marks the second record-setting estate commitment Roger Bacon High School has received in as many months, underscoring the deep commitment of alumni and friends who believe in the school's Franciscan mission and its impact on generations of students. Together, these transformational gifts represent an unprecedented investment in the future of Roger Bacon High School and the students whose lives will be shaped by its mission for generations to come.

The $2.8 million estate gift will have a lasting impact on the future of Roger Bacon High School. The gift establishes a permanent endowed scholarship that will provide tuition assistance to future Spartans while also supporting continued campus improvements. In recognition of Ron's extraordinary generosity, the community room within the new Anne Nurre Heidt Atrium will be named the Ronald Amrhein Community Room—a welcoming space where students, alumni, families, and friends will gather for generations to come.

A self-made businessman, builder, roofer, real estate owner, and gifted investor, Ron built a remarkable life through hard work, discipline, wise stewardship, and a lifelong commitment to living within his means. Known for his uncanny ability to identify winning stocks and make sound long-term investments, he quietly built lasting wealth through patience, thoughtful decision-making, and a frugal lifestyle that reflected his values rather than extravagance. Those who knew him best remember him as humble, hardworking, deeply devoted to his family, and unwavering in his Catholic faith. He faithfully cared for both his wife and mother, remained active well into his nineties, and lived a life marked by generosity and purpose. As a student at Roger Bacon, Ron excelled on the football field and earned multiple collegiate scholarship offers, including one from Virginia Tech, before proudly serving his country on the front lines during the Korean War.

Although he lived a humble life, Ron never forgot the education and values he received at Roger Bacon. His final gift reflects a lifelong gratitude for the school that helped shape him and a desire to ensure future generations would have access to the same Franciscan education.

Amrhein was also a dedicated member of the Fr. Andrew Fox Society, Roger Bacon's planned giving society. His transformative gift stands as a testament to the profound impact planned giving can have on future generations of Spartans.

Established in 1992, the Fr. Andrew Fox Society recognizes individuals who include Roger Bacon High School in their estate plans. Named in honor of former teacher and principal Fr. Andrew Fox, OFM, the society celebrates those who make a lasting commitment to sustaining Roger Bacon's mission of developing the hearts, minds, and bodies of young men and women in a caring and challenging Franciscan environment.

“Getting to learn more about Ron’s life has made this extraordinary gift even more meaningful,” said Brandon Spaeth ’11, Director of Advancement. “Ron was a hardworking, faithful, and generous man who quietly dedicated his life to serving others—embodying the very qualities we hope every Spartan carries with them long after graduation. His generosity reflects a lifetime of wise stewardship, a deep belief in Catholic education, and an enduring love for his alma mater.

It is especially fitting that the Ronald Amrhein Community Room will become a place where students, alumni, families, and friends gather for years to come. Combined with the endowed scholarship established in his honor, Ron’s generosity will continue to open doors for future Spartans and strengthen the Roger Bacon community for decades to come.”

Those interested in learning more about the Fr. Andrew Fox Society or planned giving opportunities are encouraged to contact Brandon Spaeth ’11, Director of Advancement, at bspaeth@rogerbacon.org or 513-641-1300.