by Kim Donovan
STE. GENEVIEVE — When family and friends are asked to describe Ernie Flieg, through a tender-hearted smile, they consistently describe him as an unpretentious man with deep faith and rooted convictions. Ernie was his own man, traveling through life in a way that drew little attention to himself, yet consistently impacted those who were part of his life in a very positive way. Stories told of Ernie remind those about his frugal nature and how his gifting process was very personal, not necessarily by the monetary value of the gift, but the love and kindness behind the gesture. Many had the pleasure to know Ernie, but very few were aware of the legacy that awaited Valle Catholic Schools Foundation after his death.
Throughout the years, Ernie saved his money and made some very wise investments. As his investments grew, Ernie never changed his style of life, knowing that one day he may be able to give something back to his family that he dearly loved, and to Valle Catholic Schools. Ernie stayed the course.
Valle Catholic Schools Foundation was notified that they were named in Ernie Flieg’s will, but little did they realize what an impact this man would make in their ability to support the quality of Catholic education at Valle Catholic Schools. Ernie was very specific in his wishes and knew Valle Catholic Schools Foundation was the vehicle by which his wishes would become reality.
“We are both humbled and energized by Ernie’s gift to Valle Catholic Schools Foundation” said Cindy Loida, President of Valle Catholic Schools Foundation. “Our mission is to enhance the academic excellence in classrooms at Valle Catholic and to provide long term financial strength by professionally managing the gifts we receive.”
So just how much did Ernie Flieg give to Valle Catholic Schools Foundation? This humble man, who gave of himself throughout his life and through his dedication to his vision of the greater good that a Catholic education can provide, gave the Valle Catholic Schools Foundation $700,000.00 upon his final wishes. Please remember Ernie in your prayers; it is because of the generosity of people like him that Valle Catholic Schools Foundation will be able to support Valle Catholic Schools today, tomorrow, and for future generations.
Ernie was not alone in his vision for the future of Valle Catholic Schools. Valle Catholic Schools Foundation has become the recipient of several generous donations through donors who understand that a Valle Catholic Schools education is a gift that has transformed their lives. The legacy of exceptional Catholic education in our community can only continue when alumni and friends realize the importance in giving back, like the generations before them.
To learn more about how to initiate your charitable legacy please visit www.valleschoolsfoundation.org or call 573.880.5591. Your legacy, like Ernie’s, can begin today.