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Senior Spotlight: Cael Ryan Wilka
By Gina Anderson
Apr. 17, 2025 12:00 am
Southeast Iowa Union offers audio versions of articles using Instaread. Some words may be mispronounced.
Cael arrived on Dec. 29, 2006, the perfect post-Christmas present for Ryan and Michelle Wilka. He is the middleman between sisters Paris and Shay. His grandparents are Ronald and Jo Wilka, Richard Wagner, the late Sue Wagner, and Launi Dane.
An original member of the Class of 2025, Cael has been on the track team since he was in 8th grade. Cael was also a member of the 2024 Homecoming court.
When not busy at school he enjoys working on his cars and hanging with friends and family.
His proudest moment was being a member of the 2022 track team that was state champions. His most embarrassing was when he hit the West Burlington score board with a discuss … oops!
When asked what’s special about his class, Cael said, “No one has been arrested yet.” His advice to the underclassmen is to keep good grades and not to slack off.
The people he singled out for special recognition are his mom and dad. About them he says, “They always support me and help me succeed in everything I do.”
Cael is in his happy place right now because it is finally track season.
Although he is still undecided about what is in his post-high school future, for now he is going to enjoy track and graduation.
Tiger Nation wishes Cael the best as he leaves NLHS. Here’s to your next adventure!