Hundreds attend Ulrich benefit

By FRITZ BUSCH

Journal Staff Writer

NEW ULM -- Despite Saturday night's wintry weather, hundreds of people attended a benefit for New Ulm native Randy Ulrich at the American Legion Clubroom.

The son of Carole and Gerry Ulrich of New Ulm, Randy played quarterback on the football team, point guard on the basketball team and a variety of positions for the baseball team for New Ulm High School in the 1970s.

He played shortstop on the 1978 New Ulm American Legion baseball team that won 16 straight games, advancing to the American Legion World Series Tournament in Yakima, Wash.

Regarded as the team's best bunter and a team player with his encouragement and light-hearted jokes that kept his teammates loose, he was part of the New Ulm High Eagles baseball team that advanced to the 1978 Minnesota High School Baseball Tournament.

Ulrich is battling a rare form of cancer. He recently had a Klatskin tumor removed from his bile duct near his liver. No matter, he was in good spirits at the dinner.

"I'm having fun today, come hell or high water," the fun-loving Ulrich said, with the wide smile he usually wears. "It's great to see everybody again. Old teammates, neighbors, even my babysitter."

He is upbeat about his coming health challenges.

"I've got to take care of some things," he said.

Ulrich is taking antibiotics and sees doctors often at the University of Minnesota Hospital.

He is currently living at his sister's lake home near Osakis. He's been getting lots of calls, cards and visits from his New Ulm friends, much to his enjoyment.

His health has caused him to change his outlook on life. He has turned his attention away from materialism and more towards religion and cancer support groups.

The benefit included an auction of a wide variety of athletic and outdoor sports items, gift certificates and polka music by the Northside Dutchmen.

Two of New Ulm's most prolific athletes, former Oakland A's and Minnesota Twins catcher and former teammates of Ulrich's, Terry Steinbach and professional softball pitcher Stephanie Klaviter signed autographs.

Auction memorabilia included autographed photos of major league players and Minnesota Twins memorabilia.