Man responds at time of band's greatest need
 No comments posted.
By JEFFREY HAGE jeff.hage@lee.net
Saturday, October 14, 2006 8:50 PM CDT
Ralph Couey knew he had received a message from God when Superintendent Mike Schoch called him one year ago on that fateful Sunday.
The owner of Connell’s Orchard was in the middle of a busy day during the apple season when the call came from Schoch, summoning the Central Lutheran Church youth leader to the school as a substitute teacher in the Chi-Hi Band room.
“It was a tough decision to make because I was right in the middle of our busy season and I didn’t have enough help,” Couey said.
“But I realized I was called to do this.”
As a Marching Cardinal alum, Couey had a connection to the band. He had served as Doug Greenhalgh’s first drum major when the director came to the school years ago. And he had made periodic appearances with the school’s pep band when time permitted.
Couey also had a connection with the students through band and through his experience as a part-time substitute teacher.
The day following the crash — and through the trauma-filled week that included a memorial service and funeral — Couey teamed with another youth pastor, Paul Ericksen, to watch over the Chi-Hi band members.
“We collected them, made sure they were in one place, and made sure they were not taken advantage of,” Couey said.
But most importantly, he provided students with a shoulder to cry on.
Couey watched something amazing that week as the human spirit prevailed during what was for many the worst tragedy of their lives.
“But kids can be amazing,” he said.
“They didn’t just sit back and cry, even though a lot of tears were shared. They made hand prints on the practice room wall, worried about others involved in the tragedy, and helped others wherever there was a need.”
Leaders were born that week, Couey said.
He saw the same reaction throughout Chippewa Falls.
“Our community responded. Parents took days off to be with the kids in the band room, the area clergy stopped in to offer support to the kids,” he said.
And the night of the memorial service left Couey nothing short of surprised.
“There were people in line for hours who I knew never met Doug, Therese or Morgan personally, but they were there showing their dedication and offering their respect,” he said.
“That says a lot about a community.”
As for Couey, he says he was glad to be able to give something back to his former band director.
“God gives you challenges — and that was a challenge. Wherever I can help out … that’s my job,” he said.
|
Archives