“Preach the Gospel at all times; when necessary, use words.” This quote, often attributed to St. Francis of Assisi, could well be used to describe the life of Notre Dame Academy alumnae, Mrs. Peg Geaslen Kohl, class of 1950. Throughout her life as a student, a wife, mother and grandmother, Peg has used her devotion to preach the gospel through her volunteer works and her interest in needlework and crochet.
During her four years at Notre Dame Academy, Peg was always described as “friendly” and “helpful” to her fellow classmates. She enjoyed expressing herself through her participation in the Choral Club, the Press Club and as a member of the Patrins staff. But her commitment to her faith and service grew through her involvement on the various committees that promoted faith and good works such as SDS, Eucharistic Vigil and Good Counsel. Especially during her senior year, Peg worked to promote decency in public newspapers, modesty in dress and civility in language through her involvement in SDS.
Peg Geaslen,1st student standing Peg Geaslen is last student on right Peg Geaslen, 1950
August, 2024 Jane Kleier and Jack VonHandorf accept the gift of a cross-stitched Face of Jesus from Peg Geaslen Kohl’ Class of 1950.
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“Face of Mary” now resides in the foyer of the chapel surrounded by icons of the patron saints of the NDA class families. The “Face of Jesus” now resides in the chapel reflection space.
After graduation, Peg married Paul Kohl and moved to Villa Hills where they raised their family. Peg spent most of her life as a homemaker, but never forgot the teachings of service and the example of good works instilled during her years at NDA. While raising their two girls, Peg found time to participate in many volunteer activities for her parish church, St. Elizabeth Hospital and Our Lady of the Holy Spirit Center, to name a few. At the same time, Peg found enjoyment in creating needlework pictures for others. This interest lead to the creation of her own company where she designed counted cross-stitch patterns that were sold in needlework catalogs and craft shops around the world.
Over the years, Peg developed a passion for completing needlework pictures which featured religious images. Notre Dame Academy is blessed to have received two different needlework designs, one of Our Blessed Mother’s face and one of the face of Our Lord, Jesus. Both now hang in the foyer of the school’s chapel. In more recent years, Peg has taken up crochet and continues her dedication to service by making afghans which she donates to residents of Hospice, to provide comfort during their stay.
Throughout her life Peg Geaslen Kohl has continued to “preach the gospel” through her dedication to serve others through her volunteer activities and to spread her devotion to Our Lord through her beautiful artwork. She is truly sharing her gifts to make a difference in the lives of those she meets.