Project Description
“She is Onalaska,” exclaimed Evelyn Pertzch about Orlene Hough, a 1952 graduate of Onalaska High School.
Orlene (Anderson) Hough’s parents moved to Onalaska when she was entering 8th grade. She became entwined in the city through her volunteerism, community support, and profession. Her talents for bookkeeping kept her busy in various organizations through the years. Orlene was treasurer of various organizations: the Onalaska Historical Society, the Women’s Guild for First Lutheran Church and the Elizabeth Circle. Secretary was another responsibility she assumed for the Onalaska Alumni Association and the Onalaska Historical Society. Being treasurer and secretary were not glamorous roles, but they suited her. She was a humble person and did not care to be in the spotlight. Instead, her preference was to keep people up-to-date and accurately informed from the passenger seat.
Orlene enjoyed being a part of the Onalaska Alumni Association. She demonstrated her Hilltopper Pride by the countless hours she put into organizing All-School Reunions, which was a time she could see every class come together as one.
Orlene also volunteered as an active member of Centering Onalaska. She wanted Onalaska to move forward but at the same time retain the “small town flavor and beauty.” Whether it was walking in parades to promote the organization or planting hanging baskets that line our Main Street, Orlene was there.
Orlene worked for the City of Onalaska from the mid-60s until 1998; first, as an administrative assistant, and then as the Onalaska City Clerk.
Induction Classification: Class of 1952
Induction Year: 2012
WHO WILL BE INDUCTED NEXT?
Nominations for the Wall of Excellence are accepted every year in the spring. Past nominations that have not been inducted can be nominated for consideration. There can be up to three inductees per year. The induction ceremonies are held in the fall as part of the homecoming festivities.
Calling All Onalaska Alumni! Send Us Your Updated Contact Info!
The Alumni Association partners with Onalaska High School to keep updated records of alumni. This helps individual classes with connecting for class reunions as well as the All-Class Reunion held every three years. Click on the button to send us your updated contact information.
