Muskego Teacher's Memory Honored with Naming of Observatory at High School

The nature of science is discovery, and it was an irony that the passing of a former Muskego High School science teacher on February 4 would lead to a rediscovery of an otherwise unknown and rare asset at the school.

Jerry Stueber was a teacher at MHS beginning in 1957, and in the midst of the "space race" and his own passion for studying the heavens, he orchestrated the construction of an observatory, complete with a pull-back roof and high power telescope. Stueber's astronomy students used the facility, as well as other students, staff and an astronomy club that formed as a result. 

The decline in interest has left the observatory idle, and apparently forgotten,  until now.

"I have to admit, I worked inside the school for four years, and had no idea we had an observatory," said School Superintendent Kelly Thompson on Monday night at the district's board meeting.

The school board heard from Stueber's longtime friend and colleague Robert Lang, who requested that the observatory, which is located at the far south end of the building, be renamed in Stueber's honor. 

Stueber was named Teacher of the Year in 1978, and retired from teaching at MHS in 1990 after 33 years. He also taught science, chemistry and geology, led the photography club, and hosted AFS students at the school. He was an active part of the Muskego community, serving on the Friends of the Muskego Public Library and in the Kiwanis Club with his wife Marge. She still resides at Tudor Oaks in Muskego.

Lang offered to pay for any costs for the recognition, such as a plaque bearing Stueber's name. 

"I came to Muskego in 1966 and had the privilege of serving with Jerry," Lang told the board. "I can't think of anyone more deserving of this honor."

Board members were unanimous in granting the request, and said that the observatory should be again highlighted as a community asset.

"I think this is something we need to get out there, perhaps to open up the idea of an astronomy club in the city, or allow for its use through parks and rec programming," said board member Brett Hyde.

A memorial for Stueber has already been planned on April 27, and Lang said the recognition would be another great addition to the event.