Longtime Bus Driver Honored with Roncalli Award

Allan Kluthe recognized for decades of service and support for Pope John XXIII Central Catholic

Apr. 2, 2026 at 1:12pm

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At the 40th Annual Pope John Development Dinner in Petersburg, Nebraska, Father John Norman presented the prestigious Roncalli Award to Allan Kluthe in recognition of his long-term dedication and contributions to Pope John XXIII Central Catholic. Kluthe, a longtime bus driver who safely transported generations of students, was praised for his kindness, generosity, and steadfast support of the school's mission.

Why it matters

The Roncalli Award honors individuals who have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to Catholic education and the Pope John XXIII community. Kluthe's decades of service, from driving the school bus to supporting events and encouraging students, exemplify the values of the award and highlight the important role that dedicated volunteers and staff play in the success of parochial schools.

The details

For many years, Allan Kluthe served as a bus driver for Pope John XXIII Central Catholic, safely transporting students to games, activities, and events. But his role went beyond just driving, as he was known for his kindness, generosity, and grandfatherly spirit - always having root beer barrels and butterscotch candies on hand to share with the students. Kluthe and his late wife, Doris, were also faithful supporters of the school, attending events and standing firmly behind the mission of Catholic education.

  • The 40th Annual Pope John Development Dinner was held on March 29, 2026.
  • The Roncalli Award was presented to Allan Kluthe during the dinner.

The players

Father John Norman

The priest who presented the Roncalli Award to Allan Kluthe.

Allan Kluthe

The recipient of the Roncalli Award, recognized for his decades of service as a bus driver and faithful supporter of Pope John XXIII Central Catholic.

Doris Kluthe

Allan Kluthe's late wife, who shared his generous spirit and commitment to supporting the school.

Pope John XXIII Central Catholic

The parochial school in Petersburg, Nebraska that presents the annual Roncalli Award.

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What they’re saying

“Allan dedicated countless hours and miles as a longtime bus driver for Pope John. Generations of students have been blessed by his steady presence behind the wheel — safely transporting them to games, activities, and events. But Allan's role has always been about more than driving a bus. He has been a quiet guardian, a friendly face, and a constant supporter of the students entrusted to his care.”

— Father John Norman, Priest

“And of course, anyone who knows Allan knows he is famous for always having root beer barrels and butterscotch candies on hand. Students quickly learned that a ride with Allan often came with a sweet treat — a small but memorable gesture that perfectly reflects his kindness and grandfatherly spirit. Those candies have become part of his signature, a simple tradition that has brought countless smiles over the years.”

— Father John Norman, Priest

What’s next

The Pope John Development Dinner is an annual event, so the community can look forward to the 41st edition next year, where a new Roncalli Award recipient will be honored.

The takeaway

This story highlights the vital role that dedicated volunteers and staff play in the success of parochial schools. Allan Kluthe's decades of service, from driving the school bus to supporting events and encouraging students, exemplify the values of the Roncalli Award and the importance of community members who selflessly give their time and energy to support Catholic education.