Cardinal Stritch Retreat House

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The Staff.

We present to you some of the people whose job it is to make your stay comfortable, quiet and prayerful.  In doing what we do here, we, as a staff, try to be guided by the Benedictine core values of Hospitality, Stewardship, Justice and Respect.  We are ever-mindful of the mandate of St. Benedict's Rule 53: Welcome the stranger in whom you will see the face of Christ. 

Ben Pfaller, formerly our chief “minister of maintenance,” a former Chicago police officer, is now taking orders from his son Patrick Pfaller, our new "chief."  Both of these men, together with George Schopper, apply tender loving care to keep this large building running.  Truly, we could not keep the doors open without Patrick's, Ben’s and George's gifts of craftsmanship.  They exemplify the Benedictine value of stewardship.

Ben, maintenance wizard
Ben

George and Patrick
Patrick Pfaller, our new maintenance chief--on the right of course--and George Schopper, on the left

Eva Schopper, office manager and general "take-charge" person, is the one whose voice you will likely hear when you call.  Eva has been with Stritch for many years in a variety of capacities and knows the operation from top to bottom.  Presently, she is the manager of all administrative functions at the House.  Eva is a graduate of advanced studies in education in her former home in Hungary.

Eva Schopper
Eva Schopper

Our housekeeping staff is led by Gladys Naval.  She, together with Erika, makes sure the place is clean, healthy, safe and welcoming.  Our sheets smell fresh—just how Mom used to do it.  Gladys and Erika are often complimented on how clean everything is.  They make the place shine--literally--and we could not run this place without them.

Gladys and Erika
Erika (l.) and Gladys

Morrison Senior Food Service is the company which is contracted to serve the nutritious and attractively presented ample portions of food.  It is the case that one of the things that we do best here, many say, is the food.  We try to tailor our offerings to the group which is staying at the Retreat House.  Ask if we can accommodate any special needs.  Kris Salvador is the manager of the fine, courteous staff, which frequently is commented on for its solicitude for our guests.  Mark Kroplewski, our executive chef, has recently joined us and it is a pleasure to behold Kris and Mark collaborate together with the able support of the rest of the Morrison staff, some of whom are pictured below.  We are the retreat house with the gourmet dining and the polished, professional staff. 

Mark the Executive Chef
Our shiniest new team member--Executive Chef Mark Kroplewski

Judy
Heeeere's Judy!

Bill
And Bill provides our famous "service with a smile."