Beta Theta Pi - University of Minnesota

Bert had a deep pride in the fraternity and an appreciation for the lifelong friendships he formed as an undergraduate. "Bert was the consummate Beta," said Bob Brunmeier '84. "You always knew where you stood with him. His boisterous laugh could be across the room, and you always looked forward to seeing him." In 1989, Bert began serving Beta Theta Pi Society of Minnesota House Corporation for more than 20 years, including several years as president. As a volunteer, Bert recognized and supported initiatives to increase investment in the fraternity, both at local and national levels. In the early 1990s, he raised thousands for improvements to the chapter house kitchen and other areas and helped fundraise for the Men of Principle Initiative led by the General Fraternity. In 2013, Bert served as honorary chairman for the society's The North Shall Increase capital campaign. With his guidance and leadership, our campaign raised more than $750,000, which helped finance the largest renovations to date at the chapter house in 2016. Bert also led a monthly Beta lunch gathering for a dozen local alumni, consistently making personal phone calls to each invitee every month and encouraging them to extend the invitation to others. "I derived much happiness and friendship from the fraternity, and I wanted to give back so that future generations can enjoy the same experience that I had," Bert wrote in 2016. "Once a Beta, always a Beta." Bert lived a long and full life. He was an active member of Minnetonka Lutheran Church for many years. Many of our brothers, across generations, are thankful to have known him. Beta left a mark on Bert, and Bert certainly left an even larger mark on Beta Pi. Our memory of him can inspire us for years to come. Yours in __kai__, Branden Peterson '05 betA thetA Pi A Legacy of Integrity IN MEMORY OF DONN P. BARBER '56 D onn P. Barber '56, of Minneapolis, Minn., passed away on August 2, 2023, at age 89. After graduation, Donn remained involved with Beta Pi at numerous social events. When his son, Paul '84, enrolled at Minnesota, Donn encouraged him to visit the Beta Pi house, leading to the two sharing a legacy connection. His journey in the corporate world began with notable positions at W.R. Grace and the Whirlpool Corporation, where he honed his skills and established a reputation for excellence; however, Donn's most enduring professional chapter was his role as Chief Financial Officer for Hartzell Corporation, where he dedicated over 30 years of his life. His commitment to financial stewardship and leadership was pivotal to the company's success and growth. Beyond the boardroom, Donn was an active National Association of Accountants and Financial Executives Institute member, demonstrating his dedication to his field and continuous professional development. Summers at the cabin on Lake Sylvia were a cherished tradition that allowed him to connect with nature, family, and friends. In his later years, Donn and his wife, Louise, became involved with the Edina Coalition for Grief Support, where they forged meaningful relationships and provided invaluable support to others navigating the challenging journey of loss. Travel was a passion for Donn and Louise. Their adventures took them to an astounding 64 countries, enriching their lives with diverse cultures, experiences, and memories. Donn was also a long-time member of St John's Episcopal Church in Minneapolis. He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Louise; sons Paul and David; and many other family members and friends. Chapter President Jacob T. Polzin '25 Vice President of Brotherhood Connor B. DeJong '23 Vice President of Finance Zachary S. Ahearn '25 Vice President of Communications Joseph A. Burgess '25 Vice President of New Member Education Simon C. Horning '24 Vice President of Risk Management William K. Allan '24 Vice President of Ritual Thomas J. Wolfe '23 Vice President of Programming Daniel J. Peters '25 Vice President of Recruitment Owen B. Ratgen '24 ratge006@umn.edu ONCE A BETA, ALWAYS A BETA Remembering Bert Leach '52 (Continued from page 1) CHAPTER OFFICERS Recruitment: Enlist 10 more members in spring 2024. Retention: Grow retention rates through brotherhood events and increased new member participation. Finance: Support the chapter's stability by securing members to live in the house for the 2024-25 academic year. THREE GOALS FOR 2023-24 Can you help us with our recruitment goal? If you know any men enrolling who would make a good Beta, send their info to Vice President of Recruitment Owen Ratgen '24 at ratge006@umn.edu or (651) 210-0149.

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