For decades, Dennis Menke and his wife, Kate, shared a steadfast belief: that faith-based education is one of the greatest gifts a community can give its children. Together, they envisioned schools where academic excellence and spiritual formation walk hand in hand where every student grows not only in knowledge but also in faith and character.

Through their dedication, the Holy Trinity Catholic Elementary School became a living testament to that vision. Dennis’s leadership and Kate’s commitment helped raise the funds, rally volunteers, and bring to life a new school that continues to serve families across Southeast Iowa with pride and purpose.

Before his passing, Dennis had already begun laying the groundwork for Phase Two, a thoughtful expansion that would answer the growing need for more classrooms, early childhood spaces, and specialized learning environments. With his unexpected passing, Kate and their family have affirmed a deeply personal mission: to honor his legacy by completing the next phase he started, expanding a school that continues to shape lives through Catholic education.

The Menke family’s enduring faith and vision remind us that when a community builds together, it builds more than walls it builds hearts, hope, and generations of believers.