STEVEN SHADE, '65, REPORTS THE PASSING OF JESSE BRADSHAW, '59:

----This obituary was forwarded to me this morning by 1965's STEVEN F. SHADE. It is for 1959's JESSE A. "JACK" BRADSHAW. I also received an e-mail from 1959's GARY E. BARNES, notified me that Jack was a member of the 1959 class. I don't even recognize his name, which I can hardly believe, and I did not find him in the 1959 Piratan, either. But at least this will be reaching you all, in time to pay your respects, should you wish to do so. Thanks to both Steve and Gary.


---And there you have it! More at 11--- B
-------Original Message-------

From: Steve Shade
Date: 05/14/09 06:32:36
To: Bonnie
Subject: WCHS Alumni obits

Bonnie,
As requested I am forwarding obits as I get them.
Steve

BRADSHAW, Jesse A. "Jack" age 68 of Donna, TX formerly of West Carrollton passed away on April 21, 2009. Jack was born to the late Jesse A. and Opal (Brooks) Bradshaw on September 21, 1940. He was a retired Detective with the West Carrollton Police Department. Memberships included the Frederick J. Beard Memorial Lodge F.O.P. #117. Jack is survived by his wife Ruth Bradshaw, 2 sons Jeffery (Lori) Bradshaw of Arcanum, Rodney (Connie) Bradshaw of Springboro, 5 grandchildren Christina, Marcie, Jacob, Caitlyn Nolan and 2 great-grandchildren Jack was buried at the Rio Grande Valley State Veterans Cemetery in Mission, TX on April 27, 2009. A gathering of friends will take place Monday May 18, 2009 from 6-8 p.m. at the SANNER FUNERAL HOME 800 SO. ALEX RD. WEST CARROLLTON. At 7 p.m. on Monday, family and friends will be able to share stories of Jacks life. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Comfort House Hospice 617 Dallas Ave. McAllen, TX 78501. Published in the Dayton Daily News on 5/14/2009

1959
- posted by Mikey @ 12:15 PM

 
On 11 May 2009, Bill Howard, ('56?) Sent the Following Information:

Regarding Vietnam casualties...
As you know, Lance Corporal Combs is honored by a street named in his memory in Miami Shores (Moraine, OH) (search this blog)

BERT GUERRA III, is honored on Panel 17E, Row 104 of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.
Full Name: BERT GUERRA III
Wall Name: BERT GUERRA III
Date of Birth: 4/28/1948
Date of Casualty: 4/5/1967
Date of Death: 4/5/1967
Home of Record: MIAMISBURG
State: OH
Branch of Service: MARINE CORPS
Rank: PFC
Casualty Country: SOUTH VIETNAM
Casualty Province: QUANG NGAI

THOMAS EUGENE COMBS, Panel 17E, Row 102 ofthe Vietnam Veterans Memorial.
Full Name: THOMAS EUGENE COMBS
Wall Name: THOMAS E COMBS
Date of Birth: 1/23/1946
Date of Casualty: 4/5/1967
Home of Record: DAYTON
State: OH
Branch of Service: MARINE CORPS
Rank: LCPL
Casualty Country: SOUTH VIETNAM
Casualty Province: THUA THIEN
- posted by Mikey @ 1:21 PM

 
HELLO ALL:
FOR ALL OF YOU WHO WEREN'T SURE - BONNIE IS LIVES!

On 03 MAY 2009, Bonnie wrote (finally):

(Opening "disclaimer:" With the very start of this bulletin, I'm going to offer an apology to each and every single, faithful reader. I'm truly SO sorry about this uncharacteristically-long period between bulletins. Although I made every effort to avoid it, it seemed the harder I tried, the more obstacles I encountered. Since February, I've had 11---count 'em, 11!---sets of houseguests! Now, don't get me wrong. I've enjoyed every, single one and in fact, just love having my company. But it's not the fault of my houseguests that I haven't gotten this bulletin done. For in addition to having houseguests, I still have a husband who's riddled with health problems and whose care I provide, 24/7. I've also got a gigantic house to maintain and the things relevant to running it, cleaning it, etc. But the kicker comes with the fact that I'm now 67 years old! So there it is. So many of you have written to see if I'm okay. I am. Such gestures haven't gone unnoticed and each one is so very appreciated. Again, I apologize to each of you and promise I will try my best never to let this occur again. I always miss the exchanges with all of you, when I don't get bulletin feedback. If I've missed anything, do remind me, and I'll get it in the next one. If news is dated, that's due to the long interval, of course. So now, let's finally get going on this long-overdue bulletin!!)

---With the beginning of 2009, I had vowed to try and be more punctual with our reports. (Yes, I'm aware I've said that before, but hey, don't we all make the same New Year's resolutions each and every year, anyway? Ha!) So off we go! But as is quite obvious by now, I'm not making it with this New Year's Resolution, just exactly as I thought I might not. Ever since the year began, I've hosted an endless stream of very welcome company and houseguests. So it's caused me to be the old procrastinator, once again, and far too much time has gone by, at this juncture, so I can only apologize for that.

Anyway, herewith are this bulletin's forwarders: 1949's ROBT. E. HOFFMAN; 1954's WM. L. MCNABB, FREDA P. FLETCHER; 1955's NORMAN E. JACKSON; 1957's LAWRENCE J. RENAS, JR., ERCELL P. PHILLIPS, THERESA M. ELLIOTT, THOS. D. ELLIOTT, LINDA L. BECKETT, BETTY L. CARROLL, RALPH H. WARNER; 1958's ROBT. W. "SMITTY" SMITH, WM. R. HOWARD, RONALD D. "TOM" FEE, BRUCE K. COPSEY, BRUCE E. CHENOWETH; 1959's GARY E. BARNES, BETSY R. MURPHY; 1960's C. SUE MCCLOUD, LINDA LEE SHANK, CHAS. A. "BUD" LOWMAN III, SANDRA L. WERNER, MICHAEL S. WEST, DELORES K. "DEDE" FAHRNEY, SHARON L. BORGER, RICHARD S. HOLT, LARRY M. PENDLEY, EULA FAYE BAILEY, EDGAR L. "EDDIE" KELLY, DAVID G. OTT, STEVEN M. KOKOT, JUDITH A. SLIFE, DAVID A. BLAIR, widow of RONALD P. CRAIG, Martha E.; 1961's A. ROGER MORGAN, JACQUELYN N. LESHER, PAUL R. BEARDSLEY, SANDRA E. BROCK, BARBARA J. TURNINGTON, CAROL A. MUMMA, SANDRA S. MAYO, SANDRA S. HOLLINGSWORTH, JANET L. WALTERS, SALLY L. GILLETTE, SHARON K. WENDEL-KEN, MARVIN A. COLLINS, CONNIE KAYE STREETE, DALLAS K. MATHIS, NANCY A. HALL, NANCY J. ERTEL, LARRY D. GILBERT; 1962's RICHARD. C. CALL, J. MICHAEL HARRIS, BARBARA T. O'NEAL; 1963's CAROLYN M. COOK, FRANCES L. PEFFLY, SANDRA K. MINIX, GAYLE E. LESHER. SHIRLEY ANN RANKIN; 1964's RICHARD L. DOLL, RICKEY A. BUSCH;1965's STEVEN F. SHADE; 1968's PAULA J. STRAUB; 1969's JACQUELINE J. CLARK, JOHN Q. KEMP; 1971's PAMELA K. SHIPLEY, JOY I. WOLFORD.;1981's D. BRIAN BRODBECK; and 1985's AMY LYNN HAWKINS.

Among the so-called missing for this report is the usual returned mail from 1958's KEITH E. ANDERSON, who is probably still languishing at his technology-free quarters, and surprisingly, 1957's DARELL L. TOBIAS, whose mail is now being consistently returned. Does anyone know anything about that? Also, we have an e-mail update from 1960's JOANN K. STEMLEY. So if anyone is as yet unaware on the change, do let me know, will you? This is a great time to remind everyone to keep me posted on e-mail changes. As you well know, we don't want to lose even ONE of us! Among those who have recently, "been good," and kept us posted on e-mail changes are1971 's PAMELA K. SHIPLEY and 1960's DEVONA S. TAYLOR. So thanks to both of you. (More later, on this.)

As you know, I dearly love being able to connect old high school pals. It's such fun and so terribly rewarding to feel you played a small role in such a reunion. Just such was the case, when 1961's JACK L. GODBY wrote to ask me if I perchance might know the whereabouts of his old pal and fellow classmate, THOS. L. WEIDLE, who's the younger sibling of the absolutely gorgeous 1956 alumnus, ANN C. WEIDLE. She was a fellow classmate of my late sister, JUDY A. RISNER. By the way, Ann, if you're reading this, please be aware that your 1961 brother's e-mail is also being rejected.

So I set about digging through all my books and records and notes, finding a Michigan contact number and info for Tommy. However, that did not provide the desired result. So I wrote to his sister, Ann, who was able to tell me Tommy is now residing in Folsom, California. (Isn't that the same town which hosts Folsom Prison, the topic of a fabled, country song, "Folsom Prison Blues," by Johnny Cash? I'm thinking it is, but not 100% sure.) Anyway, Ann gave me the e-mail address for Tommy, and I added him to our bulletin list, and passed that along to Jack.

Actually, I wrote an e-mail to Tommy, myself, but I haven't yet heard back from him. Are you out there, Tommy? We all want to hear from you and catch up on your news! Jack, did you yet write to Tommy? If so, give us a report, if you have any news on him. Jack is also seeking contact with 1959's SHARON L. KOOGLER. I had hoped for some info on Sharon from 1961's LILY K. "KITTY" BURDETTE, who mentioned her older sister, 1959's BETTY C. BURDETTE, is best friends with Sharon and in consistent contact with her. How about it, Kitty? Can you help us connect Jack and Sharon? In any case, we hope this finds you both faring well, Jack and Tommy.

Heartiest congratulations are in order for my 1960 classmate, PHILLIP H. WOLFORD, who has recently retired after---get this!!!---FORTY-FIVE YEARS with the accounting firm of Ernst & Young. If that isn't amazing, then I don't know what IS! Phil is going to be doing some part- time consulting with them. But after 45 years, you'd have to back off gradually, right? This will be a huge lifestyle change, I'm sure. Phil's wife, Cheryl, will continue in her distinguished teach- ing career and Phil tells me he wants to try his hand at a little cooking and get acquainted with a kitchen. Cheryl will like that, Phil! Phil retires with the title of Associate Director of Finance, National Operations. He has a new, personal, e-mail address. Please contact me, if you do not yet have it, or if you wish to contact Phil. Do enjoy your new station in life, Phil.

That wonderful 1959 story from 1960's KEITH H. CLENDENON, regarding the daring kiss he planted on the unsuspecting lips of NANCY E. "COOKIE" BOWIE, way back in 1959 during the Christmas season and under the mistletoe, has brought forth a wonderful (and long overdue) repsonse from Cookie, herself. I could literally read her smile in her writing, and she told me she's going to write you an e-mail, Keith. Did she do it yet? If not, I'll bet she will. Cookie is doing well, thriving in her home in Eatonville, Washington. Son Jesse is living in Wyoming and has found himself a bride whom he will soon marry, reports Cookie. (Brace up, I may repeat this later. I'm old, my brain is much, and I'm taking too much time to write this!)

Of course, I'm working hard on Cookie to get a commitment from her about being sure to attend our 50th in 2010. In fact, it would sure be nice if you would use 2009, as a warm-up, Cookie. It's pretty common knowledge that you were one of our most popular, glamorous class members, so of course, we all want to see you.

Cookie also reported that brother-in-law GARY D. MAYS, 1957, has sold his home in DeLand and now lives in Port Orange, Florida. As many of you recall, Gary was married for years to the late DONNA G. BOWIE, 1957, who was WC's homecoming queen, a cheerleader, and also Cookie's only sibling. I know we all wish Gary well, and hope to see him at WC functions, too.
She has just recently returned from a visit with Gary, and reported he's doing well and terribly happy. Isn't that what we like to hear? We just HAVE to get you to Ohio, Cookie!

Exchanges with 1956's RALPH D. WILSON are always newsy and informative. Ralph wrote to me several times, following the loss of sibling Paul Wilson, who had long been married to his classmate, DONNA J. PEFFLY. At this point, it is fitting to offer my sincerest apology to 1961's PAULA R. WILSON and her 1964 sister, ROSE M. WILSON. I erroneously reported the two of them as being Paul's nieces. They were, in fact, daughters, and not nieces. I am terribly sorry, Paula and Marie. Two of Paula's classmates of 1961, DONNA J. RICHARDS and JANET L. WALTERS, notified me of this error, as did 1963's LEE JEAN JORDAN. As I keep telling all of you, I need your watchful eyes!

Ralph does a lot of geneaology study on family members, and has been doing so much, he's got the family tree logged, all the way back to the year of 1820. Wow, that's great, Ralph! I wish I knew how to do that.

As everyone knows, we've again had another long list of losses, and I'm going to quickly recap them, for anyone who may have missed them. I really intensely dislike this part of doing the WC bulletins. But I've certainly discovered that folks really do want to know about these passings. In addition to Paul, there is HAROLD S. "SONNY" HAHN, Class of 1956. He had long-term illness and no one yet seems to know what. He lived in Belpre, Ohio. Thanks to Ralph for this one.

There was also WILBUR R. "BILL" HAWKINS of 1953. He had cancer, died at his daughter's on February 13, and was an only child, I'm told. So no WC siblings. Thanks to 1954's WM. L. MC- NABB for this one. Bill also subesequently sent me the full obit. It seems the deceased was also of the Lutheran faith, as was the case with so many of us during the 1940s, 1950s, 1960s.

On February 5, the mother of 1954's FREDA P. FLETCHER passed away at the Miamisburg nursing home, where she had long been a resident. I was notified of this by Freda. I believe her mom was 92 years old. She had a great run!

On February 6, the father of P. LYNNETTE GARRETT, died of liver cancer in Florida. I was notified by her husband, Frank L. Hawvermale.

On January 31, 1974's CYNTHIA S. BURG died in a Dayton hospital, after a long illness and lots of surgeries, as reported by longtime close pal, 1960's KEITH H. CLENDENON.

On January 19, 1968's STEPHEN H. BLACK passed away. I don't know a lot of details, but it was reported to me by his classmate PAULA J. STRAUB. It can be accessed in the DDN obits.

On February 9, SHARON K. CRUTCHFIELD died of cancer. She was the younger sister of 1958's K. JUNE CRUTCHFIELD. Not only did June notify me of this one, but also classmate, BRUCE K. COPSEY and 1963's JACQUELYN N. LESHER.

On January 31, ADA C. KING passed away, following a lengthy illness. notification on this one came from 1958's BRUCE K. COPSEY.

Here's one which hadn't yet been printed when I got the news, although it has by now, and it's for CLARENCE B. JONES, age 88. Although I carefully perused all Piratans from 1936 through 1941 for his senior photo, it was not to be found. But Mr. Jones had all his schooling in WC, so he was one of us. In his obit (the DDN), it does specify ties to two well-known WC families, Rix and Roddy. Thanks to 1961's JACQUELYN N. LESHER for this one.

Thanks to 1958's BRUCE K. COPSEY, I must report the passing of 1965's LINDA K. ADAMS, on February 25. Her surname was Berner, at her death. I did not know her, but it's in the obit archives for the DDN. Thanks, Bruce.

On March 3, we lost 1951's BERT E. CULTER. I didn't know Mr. Culter, but he was 75 years old and notice on this came to us from 1954's WM. L. MCNABB. Many thanks, Bill.

The mother of 1961's ANN HINTERMEISTER has also passed away, and this notice came to us through her classmater, JACQUELYN N. LESHER. She was 93 and died on Feb. 26. she was also the mother of the late JERRY ARMSTRONG, 1958, it appears.

On March 18, 1963's DAVID L. BARNES, the younger brother of 1959's GARY W. BARNES, passed away in Missouri. I understand it was a massive heart attack. STEVEN F. SHADE (of 1965) was able to locate the obit. Thank you, Steve. Gary had told me, too, of course.

Okay, let's try to move on to more cheerful news, shall we? I've received reports from several of us who have visited with 1960's PHILLIP D. HOWARD, who's been very ill. So it's sure nice to know he's getting those visits. Among those who have recently seen Phil (and his wife, who is 1967's MARIAN K. HUSSEY) are KEITH H. CLENDENON (1960), 1964's LARRY R. TACKETT, DONALD I. MCCOY (1958), CHAS. A. HIGH, JR. (1960), and maybe others, of whom I'm unaware. Let's all keep thinking those good thoughts and saying those prayers and pulling for Phil, okay? (Keith, your cousin, Larry, was in the 1964 class, lest you think I made a mistake. I actually did look at the Piratan to be sure.)

By the way, Phil and Kay, sending along special wishes are 1986's AMY L. HAWKINS and her 1981 spouse, D. BRIAN BRODBECK. Amy is the daughter of 1958's W. BAILEY HAWKINS and 1962's JACQUELYN S. HAYNES, while Brian is the son of 1958's VINCENT A. BROD- BECK and the late DOROTHY J. "DOTTIE" WILLMAN, 1960. That brings me to ask about you, Vince. How are you? I think of you fondly.

Still undergoing treatment for illness is 1956's ANITA RAE MASON. I speak often with her and she has that indomitable spirit and hangs in there, through it all. Anita celebrated her 71st birthday on January 28. We hope you have lots more of those birthdays, Anita!

By the way, also celebrating a January birthday was the disgustingly-youthful, golf-playing GARY L. WARLAUMONT, who turned 67 on January 13. Is it the golf which makes you retain your youthful appearance, Gary, or is trying to keep up with Jill? Other January birthdays of which I'm aware include 1961's NANCY J. ERTEL and 1958's BRUCE E. CHENOWETH. On February 13, "my first husband," 1960's LARRY M. PEND -LEY, celebrated his 67th birthday. (For those of you who are unaware, Larry and I played an old married couple in the class play. Was that our junior year or senior year, Larry? I'll have to look at my Piratans again!) Anyway, heartiest congratulations to all!

Continuing to maintain our wonderful WC blog is 1960's MICHAEL S. WEST. If you haven't checked it out lately, please do so, by going to ( www.wchs.blogspot.com ). There is a wealth of information there, thanks to Mike. By the way, Mike and wife Sally were sunning themselves in the Antigua resort of Sandals, for the month of February, returning in very early March to quite an accumulation of snow. I didn't have a flake, by the way, here in Kingsport. He sent me a few photos, too, which I hope will soon be on the blog. We all hope you both had a great time, Mike and Sally!

There is much more travel in the WC ranks, as I received auto-replies from 1963's LEE JEAN JORDAN and 1968's PAULA J STRAUB. So how about it, girls? Are you among our WC tra
-velers? I hadn't heard from 1963's FRANCES L. PEFFLY for a while as she has returned to Ecuador for a spell, but we'll have more later on Fran.

Once again, we welcome aboard new WC folks and that's always a thrill. This time, we've got a new 1956 alumnus, REBECCA J. POLING, who was also a close pal of my late sister, JUDY A. RISNER. Becci tells me she and Judy kept up a running contact and Judy gave her all the news. Becci is also a Miami Shores Kid, so we spent some time reminiscing about our childhoods in that magical, little village, and chatting about all the handsome guys who ran around that place, in those days. There were lots of them!

Becci says she heard great things about our big WC weekend, especially about the First Annual Miami Shores Memories Picnic and is going to try to be there for the next one. Becci lives far away, in Murrieta, California (which is 50-60 miles north of San Diego).

So many WC folks recall the good looks of the Poling girls. Among those is none other than WALLACE W. ROBBINS. Who has a better eye for the attractive females, than he, right? He called me not long ago, and we chatted for quite a spell. He wanted to contact Becci and catch up on old times. So did you and he get to talk yet, Becci?

Not long before Christmas, I got an e-mail from 1957's SHIRLEY ANN HILE, who advised she and her husband were getting ready to move to a different home. So did you finish your move yet, Shirley? How's life in the new place? I'm so sorry I wasn't able to get those bricks from you. (For those of you who are unaware, Shirley was saving Woody's bricks for me.) If I make a trip at anytime in the near future, I promise I'll come to get them, if you still have them. Thanks.

Who was it who submitted a great photo of two WC folks (also Miami Shores Kids), RUSSELL L. HARVILLE and HERBERT R. CARROLL? I think that was you, BETTY L. CARROLL (1957), so was it? Anyway, we got confirmation of the school year on the photo from 1954's WM. L. MCNABB, and I'm pretty sure it has found its way to the blog. Take a look.

On or about Feb. 7, 1958's WM. R. HOWARD wrote that he ran into 1957's CHAS. R. BOND ("Chuck") and that Chuck was in great shape and feeling good. That's always wonderful to hear, especially during this time of hearing of so many of us not being around anymore!

Bill also wrote to ask me if I'd heard anything on the issue of individual classes getting together every two years, instead of five years, once they have reached that fiftieth milestone. Actually, I haven't heard a word about that, Bill. You were the first person to make me aware of someone suggesting that. However, I'm sure we can all agree that it makes a lot of sense, once we get that far through life. So let's hope someone will put that together.

From 1963's. JOYCE A. KUHN came an e-mail to update me on classmate BARBARA ELAINE CRIDER. Barb had new e-mail address and I was getting rejects on her. I think all is well now, though. Are you there, Barb? Thanks, Joyce.

From 1954's FREDA P. FLETCHER, a current report and update came in, for her son, 1975's Dr. MARK T. SCHROEPPEL. It seems Mark is now in Belgrade (isn't that Yugoslavia?) and he is still in the employ of the U.S. State Dept. I'm glad he's out of Russia! Drop us a line, Mark, and let us know how you're doing!

Remaining firmly ensconced in Arizona for the winter season were 1960's CHAS. A. "BUD" LOWMAN III and spouse1961's SALLY LYNNE GILLETTE. They be returned to Ohio in March and said they very much enjoyed the stay in the western retreat. Wanting very much for them to visit while in Arizona was Sally's classmate, P. LYNNETTE GARRETT, who's at her place in Henderson, Nevada, until sometime in May.

From 1964's TERRY L. WILSON came a short e-mail, in which he reconfirmed how much fun he had, when he came to the WC weekend last October. Well, we were all thrilled you came to spend time with us, Terry, and we sure do hope it's going to become a regular habit!

Getting together with old school chums is such a lot of fun. Recently, that's exactly what happened, once again, at The Villages in Florida. The MAYS clan and other friends gathered there. Included in the group were 1960's J. DAVID MAYS and wife Ann, 1955's CARL R. MAYS and wife Marilyn, 1957's GARY D. MAYS and companion Pat, 1960's THOS. L. WOLFE, JR., and wife Susan, DANNY L. WALTERS and wife Phyllis. Also in the photo are Janice and Carroll Giles (whom I had previously met in Florida) and Larry and Bev VanDenEinde. So many thanks to you, Ann, for sending that info. I'll bet you can all view this photo on the WC blog, too!

There were also fun exchanges with two of the 1961 class members, NANCY ANN HALL and NANCY J. ERTEL. Nancy H. and I share a very long church history together, and Nancy E. and I have a WC trivia relationship, in which I think she does a far better job of recalling various, tiny details of things, than I do. Sometimes, I'm amazed by what BOTH of you recall. But once you've told me, I remember it, too! Nancy H. and her spouse were recently in Ohio and made a stop at the old Frisch's, of course! Nancy E. and spouse Don also had a little trip, opting to go the Hot Springs, Arkansas!

Nancy E. has instituted a facebook entry. She sent me some particulars and I don't know a lot about it. Nancy, I'll take a look at that, one of these days, when I have a chance to breathe! Nancy E. also mentioned e-mailing you, 1960's DENNIS A. ROSE. Did you answer her yet? If not, please do!

From 1965's STEVEN F. SHADE came an e-mail to advise me he's trying his best to keep all the WC info current, including our losses and the info which is always included in our dinner/ dance programs. You always do a great job with all of this, Steve. We all appreciate it, so please don't worry, and thanks.

We always get great news reports from 1957's BETTY LEE CARROLL, and this bulletin period is no exception. Betty is the spouse of 1957's RALPH H. WARNER and she reports that the son of RALPH E. "BUTCH" HARVILLE and 1958's BETTY C. BURDETTE, along with the son of 1962's RICHARD G. DENNY and LIELA K. GEORGE, have together purchased the old, original Angelo's Drive-In building in Moraine City on southbound old Route #25. They are successfully operating what I hear is currently a booming business. That's great news, Betty, and you were the first to tell me. Since you did, though, I've talked with a number of people who have gone there and they all report it's like a big WC reunion, every day. They also tell me the food is exceptional. Terrific!

We got one e-mail from 1966's ROBT. D. LOVETT, who is my only 1966 reader, I think, in which he asked to be removed from the list, due to reading about so many deaths. Well, I do understand what he means, of course. I so wish I didn't have to report such things. But I must. Of course, I hate losing anyone, as you all know, so I wrote back an e-mail to Bob, just to be sure he wanted to do that. I'd hate for you to miss all the other news, Bob. But he hasn't yet written back to confirm. I'll keep you all posted.

Cousin JUDITH L. SAMUELS and I continue our daily prattle of all things mundane, routine, and unexciting. However, we both enjoy it a great deal and always wonder where the other one is, if we don't do about a message a day or more.

Recently, I've spoken with 1956's ANITA RAE MASON, 1958's BRUCE E. CHENOWETH,
1959's BETSY R. MURPHY, 1960's SHIRLEY J. TUDOR, JOANN K. STEMLEY, THOS. D. YOUNG, T. BARRY RUSSELLO, EULA FAYE BAILEY, BEVERLY A. BOWMAN, CHAS A. HIGH, JR., and MICHAEL S. WEST. All of the aforementioned are doing well.

Bruce just visited me in Tennesse on February 20. He's having a ball, working on the restoral efforts for his 1948 Oldsmobile, his high school car. Betsy and Barry were vacationing in the Naples sun of Florida, during the last part of February, Shirley had returned to work in the family business (Merker Iron), Jo Ann is attending to family needs in Dayton, Tom thrilled by a new Springtime, hoping to join his high school pals (LARRY M. PENDLEY and DAVID A. BLAIR) in a few rounds of golf, Eula Faye is still working and spending time with her family, and Beverly is taking care of grandkids and even has great-grandkids! As previoulsy mentioned, Mike and Sally were at Sandals resort on the isle of Antigua, during this period.

Remaining sort of hampered by his wheelchair, in his Ohio home, is 1971's RODNEY R. GAB- BARD. He writes he's in pain a lot and can't get in or out, due to his lack of a ramp. But you all don't yet know of the progress on that front. Not at all to my amazement, that situation has been totally resolved for him, and yes, I'm going to elaborate.

Are all of you aware of the segment on nightly NBC news, entitled, "Making A Difference?" I'm happy to report that WC has its very own person who has done exactly that. This person insists on total anomymity, however. But this person did a remarkable act of kindness, contacting a contractor and paying all the labor and materials for Rod's long-awaited, wheelchair ramp. It's now completed and Rod is thrilled. So there will be no need for the previously-mentioned crew of WC volunteers to go to Rod's house and do the work involved in building his ramp. It was completed during the second week of April. He is now able to make a pain-free exit from his house. So Rod sends heartfelt gratitude and thanks to his anonymous donor. Remember, Rod, I advised you to hang in there, and you did hang in there, so now it's all done. It's this type of gesture which makes me so proud to be a WC alumnus! I'm sure you all share my pride.

Joining the ranks of our readers this time is 1953 class member, DEAN B. ELLIS. I'm not positive, Dean, but think you just may be my very first 1953 reader. In any case, welcome aboard, and we sure do hope you enjoy the bulletins. More importantly, though, we do hope to begin seeing you at the alumni functions!

Many thanks to my classmate, DELORES K. "DEDE" FAHRNEY, for bringing to my attention the fact that the date was reading incorrectly on all my e-mails. I was either WAY behind or WAY ahead, I don't know which. I've since fixed that, thanks to you, DeDe. By the way, DeDe has reported to me that her dad is doing pretty well. As most of us know, he is A. EMERSON FAHRNEY, Class of 1933. She wrote of Mr. F. having a right knee replaced on Jan. 13 and of his having the left one done on Mar. 27 (both in 2008, not 2009). That's truly amazing and we sure do wish him well, DeDe!

From 1960's LARRY M. PENDLEY, aka, "my first husband," came a great, newsy e-mail in which he acknowledged my sending him a birthday greeting for his Feb. 13 birthday. Of course, Larry has always been in that special group for me, of my alumni pals. In his case, we were MIami Shores Kids together, went clear through school together, every grade, all 12 years, and have always been great pals. So I was very pleased to hear from you, Larry, and thanks for that.

But Larry had far more important news than just that of alumni and birthday stuff. It seems he's expecting to be a grandfather, for the very first time, in late May or early June. The expectant mother is Larry's daughter, Megan. So we're all thrilled for you, Larry, and I know you're going to be a heck of a grandpa. Lord, help us all if it's a boy (Larry didn't have boys, but 2 girls, like me.) Do keep us posted.

There was also news from 1956's RONALD L. BROWN and wife, ANN C. WEIDLE. It seems the Browns spent Christmas at their daughter's home in North Carolina. They didn't return home until Jan. 6, having gone on to visit Ron's twin brother, DONALD, where they also visited with no fewer than 20 grandchildren. We hope you're both doing well, Ann, and thanks for the news update.

Also checking in was 1961's gorgeous belle of the ball, SANDRA S. MAYO. Sande reports she's having a great time, visiting here and there and seeing a number of old pals. Given her great, continuing popularity, I'm sure that's true. At the time she wrote, she was headed for a mini-vacation, she said, in Daytona Beach and St. Augustine. I hope you and yours have had a great time, Sande! Sande and I have a semi-steady exchange, so that we can stay up to date with what's happening. I maintain high hopes of seeing Sande coming up my driveway, one of these days.

Submitting copies to me of a wonderful news article on THOS. EUGENE "TOMMY" COMBS, were 1949'S ROBT. E. HOFFMAN and 1958's DONALD I. MCCOY. This really WAS a very nice article, and I've read it several times. My thanks to you both. Don continues great service to me on a professional basis, by the way, and has saved me a fortune on insurance premiums I was previously paying. Thanks, Don!

In a report from 1956's RALPH D. WILSON, we have learned of the serious illness of 1957's CHAS. T. CROY, JR. He was in hospice care, as of March 6, so said Ralph's e-mail, which was a recap of Chuck's brother's e-mail. A quick scan of the 1957 Piratan reveals that Chuck was the president of his senior class. I know we're all terribly saddened to hear such news about Chuck.

In the 1965 class, we've lost LINDA K. ADAMS, on February 25. I didn't know Linda. Her name upon her death was Berner. This was reported to us by 1954's WM. L. MCNABB. So thanks for this one, Bill. Our sincerest condolences go to Linda's family and friends, of course. She was retired from Moraine City's Civic Center, said the obituary.

Upon his return home from a month-long hiatus in Antigua, 1960's MICHAEL S. WEST and wife Sally were greeted by 10 inches of snow at their Gatlinburt mountain chalet, he wrote. He wanted to know how much snow I had in Kingsport, so I replied, quite truthfully, "We haven't seen even a flake here!" He was not amused! (But we really had not.) I think I mentioned that previously, but I just want to be sure everyone knows Mike had snow, while I did NOT, okay?

Those nasty old birthdays just keep rolling past, and like everyone else, I had one, too, on March 16, turning 67. Many of you sent lovely cards and many of you sent e-mail greetings. There are far too many to mention, I'm flattered to be able to write. So I thank each of you very much for your remembrance. I do so appreciate it!

We once again welcome aboard (after a long absence) 1961's GARY R. FRANK. who sent me an e-mail from his Florida abode. Gary is doing all right now, after a serious bout with heart problems. He sends regards to all and has a new e-mail address and also updated me on his postal address. He's thankful for all his friends, he wrote. We're glad you're back with us, Gary, and we do so hope you continue to improve, with your health. Do keep in touch!

How do I rate? I got an e-mail from 1960's GARY L. WARLAUMONT, in which he thanked me for his birthday and anniversary greetings. I'm still waiting on that visit, Gary. Yes, you were here in October, but you promised to be back in the Spring. Well, guess what, it's Spring!

We welcome aboard a new alumnus, 1961's BARRY R. WICKLINE. Barry has come to us, via his classmate, NANCY J. ERTEL. We do hope you'll love the bulletins, Barry, and we also hope you'll turn up at the events. Also coming on board this period is CAROLYN J. COOK, Class of 1963. Carolyn is another one of those Miami Shores Kids., as well as being a WC alumnus. So a hearty welcome to you, too, Jean (as she likes to be called). Jean now lives in Colorado, by the way. (I'm going to be a bit repetitive in this bulletin, as I want to make sure all news is there, due to the long period. So if I repeat something, just ignore me.)

Here are a couple more additions, too. We now have 1961's LAWRENCE L. LAKINS and his 1963 wife, CAROL SUE PRICE. So we sure do welcome Mr. and Mrs. Lakins to the fold, and we hope to see ALL the new sign-ons at ALL the WC events. Thanks to 1962's J. MICHAEL HARRIS for the addition of the Lakins. We've also added 1963's GERALDINA SELLARS (and yes, the first name is correctly spelled). We welcome you aboard, too, and I wonder if perhaps you prefer to be called Gerry, maybe?

Somehow, I missed getting this to you all in a timely manner, and I can only apologize for this one. On Feb. 4, 1968's PAULA J. STRAUB, wrote to tell me that the husband of 1968's KATHY KERR, passed away. It would have had to be latter January or very early February. Our condolences to Kathy.

Continuing an ongoing banter is not only with cousin JUDITH L. SAMUELS, but also NANCY J. ERTEL,BEVERLY A. BOWMAN, P. LYNN-ETTE GARRETT, and EULA FAYE BAILEY. Judy will be here for a visit in May, as usual. Of course, she has been instructed to touch none of the old, oak-framed, orginal, double-hung windows. Ha! (Shades of her taking one right out of its frame, when she was here, last year!) Nancy is trying me out as a recipient of her new Blackberry, Lynn is still at her Nevada home (at this writing), Beverly contents herself with lots of time with grandchildren and great-grandchildren (she's got 5 of those!) and Eula Faye continues to work and also to be involved deeply with her family, too. So all is well there.

A recent, lengthy chat with 1960's CHAS. A. HIGH, JR., revealed his ongoing, 24/7 care of his wheelchair-bound, stroke-ridden wife, who has sadly recently lost her sight in one eye. He somehow manages to do this, in spite of his own heart problems and the fact that he's had no fewer than 18 open-heart surgeries, himself. I'm continually amazed!

My own brithday-twin classmate, DEVONA S. TAYLOR, and I had our usual, long, windy chat on our birthday (or was it a few days prior?) of March 16. We also tried to get scheduled for a visit, here in Tennessee, as they went to one of the Wyndham Resorts to visit their son. But it was too far and we couldn't get it together, alas! But we'll keep trying, won't we, Dee?

Ann Mays (spouse of 1960's J. DAVID MAYS) sent wonderful photos of the spring wildflowers in the Great Smoky Mountains. Of course, I'm now very well aware of those, already. But they sure are breathtaking, for sure. The Mays' two daughters were visiting during April, as were my own two daughters, and their families.

BARRY R. WICKLINE, 1961, reports he has a 1962 Thunderbird, which has been totally restored. Wow, that's pretty nifty, Barry. We hope to see that car and you, at our 2009 alumni events.

Another e-mail arrived from my 1960 classmate WM. D. DUNCAN, in which he was wondering if I'm all right. Wow! That really got me moving! I know I'm behind, and I'm SO sorry. I can only apologize to all of you, and hope I will find time to stay more current, after this bulletin is done. Bill recently moved to Texas, I believe, with wife Suzanne. Other such messages came from 1957's THERESA M. MOSES and spouse, THOS. D. ELLIOTT, from 1956's RALPH D. WILSON, from 1961's SANDRA S. MAYO, from 1960's EDGAR L. "EDDIE" KELLY and from MICHAEL S. WEST, as earlier written in my disclaimer.

From 1958's BRUCE E. CHENOWETH came a new e-mail address. Are you all up to date on that? Bruce is diligently continuing work on his 1948 Oldsmobile. I can scarcely wait to see it.

Speaking of new e-mail addresses, we also got an update from 1961's CONNIE M. MARCUM, and she also wondered what on earth had happened to me. Ha! I simply got old, Connie, but thanks SO much for writing! I changed your e-mail on the readers list.

Yet another e-mail change came to me in March from 1960 classmate DANNY L. WALTERS. I just noticed that one, Dan, so let me know if it's not right. Thanks.

Did I write yet about the LOWMANs returning from Arizona (1960's CHAS. A. "BUD" III and 1961's SALLY A. GILLETTE? I'm thinking I did, but want to be sure. Preparing to depart from Nevada on May 6 is 1961's P. LYNNETTE GARRETT and spouse Frank L. Hawvermale. I always maintain contact with Lynn and Frank. They'll be visiting during the summer season.

As reported by 1958's WM. R HOWARD, his old pal and classmate, RONALD D. "TOM" FEE, was experiencing some PC problems. Is that all resolved yet, Tom? Be sure to keep us posted (or you can do that, Bill).

There was a nice hello this time from 1961's JUDY M. FRANTZ, who continues to work and (I'm sure) be the life of the party wherever she happens to go. Keep up the good work, Judy!

There was also an exchange with 1961's RICHARD L. DOLL, who indicates he's going to make a real effort to join us for this year's WC alumni weekend. We sure so hope so, Richard. You're going to love it!

Another classmate, JUDITH A SLIFE, and I have been having numerous exchanges and I sure am going to hold your feet to the fire, Judy, on that commitment to be with us this year. You haven't forgotten, have you? Ha! It's been so long, I was afraid you might. Judy and I have done lots of in-depth discussions about all the mysteries of life, haven't we, Judy?

Such is the case with 1961's SANDRA S. MAYO and I, too. Sande indicated she may be visiting me in June, and what a thrill that would be! Sande and I hung around together in school sometimes, and it would be such fun to catch up on life! Sande remains dedicated to her aging mother, who's in Florida, and caring for her pet pooch. We wish you well with both of them, Sande, and I'll look forward to seeing you.

Naturally, I've been in touch with 1960's EULA FAYE BAILEY. Somehow, no matter how busy we both are, we find some way to touch base about every 3-4 weeks, even if only for 10-15 minutes. That reminds me, Eula Faye, it's about that time again, isn't it? The same goes for my other old friend, BEVERLY A BOWMAN. I've got to get on that phone!

Dare I mention that I heard from 1960 alumnus and class treasurer, THOM B. THOMPSON? I think I will! He remains resistant about joining us for our functions, but I'm still not going to give up the effort. You know me!

Thanks a lot to you, 1961's PAUL R. BEARDS- LEY, for letting me know of the recent surgery of 1958's DONALD I. MCCOY. Don, how are you doing? How about an update? Further thanks goes to you, too, Don, for letting us know of the latest on PHILLIP D. HOWARD, 1960. As we all know, Paul's spouse is 1961's SANDRA E. BROCK, and Phils spouse is 1967's MARIAN K. HUSSEY. All are good friends who often see each other. Judy Slife sent a query about you, Phil, and wondered how you're doing. We want every one to be well and healthy, right?

A note from 1951's DOYLE A. LONAKER said his classmates and he always take time to honor and remember any class member who passes away. What a nice practice, Doyle. We thank you for sharing that with us.

A very cordial note arrived from 1961's DONNA J. SIMPSON, and it's been long ago, now, but your message's meaning wasn't lost, Donna. in it, she expressed thanks for her good fortune at living so near to her daughter and she remains dedicated to her grandchildren and enjoys them so much. Good for you, Donna!

Avery brief condolence note (re WILBUR L. HAWKINS) arrived from 1961's LARRY D. GILBERT. Larry, you've just got to put in an appearance this year! Aren't you in Ohio? We all want to see you!

As always seems to be the case, I learned a bit more of the mysteries of life from 1954's FREDA P. FLETCHER. Every time you and I have one of those lengthy exchanges, Freda, I come away feeling more educated than I was before you wrote. So how's everything, now?

We welcome aboard 1961's CAROLYN JEAN COOK. She was the step-sibling of 1956's JUDITH L. HICKMAN, who lives in Arizona, I do believe. She goes by Jean. So if anyone would like to contact Jean, do let me know. I hope you enjoy the bulletins, Jean. We did a bit of heavy reminscing about our Miami Shores days, by the way.

The traveling FULLER folks (1960's GERALD A. and his WC-honorary spouse, Rebecca A.) have returned to their Louisville home and are doubtless just back from the recent Kentucky Derby! Jerry and I had a long and windy chat, just a couple of weeks ago. Jerry is one of my very dearest friends in the world! I adore him.

Special thanks goes to 1963's LEE JEAN JOR- DAN, who sent such a moving recollection of so many special times at the old Scout House on the grounds of the original WCHS. She recalled Brownie Troup meetings, special events, and she especially recalled fond memories of the firm guidance of a WC teacher GERTRUDE WERNER, of whom she was so fond. I shared that reminiscence with Mrs. W.'s daughters, who are 1963's MARTHA G. WERNER and 1960's SANDRA L. WERNER. I'm sure they're both very aware of their mother's popularity.

Back on board, once again, is 1960's NANCY E. "COOKIE" BOWIE, easily among our most popular and glamorous class members. She's been writing e-mails to her fellow classmate and 1959, "surprise mistletoe smoocher," KEITH H. CLENDENON. They're having a good time with their memories, even though Cookie doesn't remember that one. Good for you both! Cookie says there was more snow at her home in the town of Eatonville, Washington, this year than ever before. She's very near to Mt. Ranier, by the way.

Also checking in was 1956's REBECCA JEAN POLING, who says she enjoyed the reading and wished she had news to report, but doesn't. It's okay, Becci. Sooner or later, something great will occur for you to share with us.

Okay, I'm going to tell you all about a great visit from one set of my houseguests. On the after- noon of April 16, none other than 1963's ANNA MAE STOKES pulled into my driveway, almost right after the arrival of her classmate, SHIRLEY A. RANKIN. Not too long after that, along came FRANCES L. PEFFLY, with daughter Kelly. We spent the next couple of days in constant laughter and hilarity. It was great fun.

We visited the nearby nail shop where everyone got manicures and pedicures. For me, it was a first. I had never done a pedicure, but finally did. By the way, JANET L. WALTERS (1961), you were SO right! How I wish I'd listened to you, in the first place! Naturally, we chattered endlessly about everything WC, and solved all the world's major problems. Shirley locked herself in the bathroom and couldn't get out. Anna Mae was the assistant chef to my grandson, as he made his famous venison stew for Kelly. Fran and I never did shut up for 5 minutes, I don't think, and we all sat in the great, Spring sunshine which is offered by Tennessee. Since Shirley happens to be a licensed cosmetologist, she gave me a great haircut in my back yard. She also brought along several of spouse Terry's great, hand- crafter birdhouses and feeders, and I bought 2 more of them. Love those things! It all came to a close, much too quickly, and they were on the road on Saturday. Shirley lives in Clarkrange, Tennessee, while Anna Mae returned to her Ohio home in Centerville. Fran and Kelly had a much longer trip, as they had to go all the way back to Dunellin, Florida. Everyone arrived safely and soundly, I'm happy to report.

This has covered all the e-mails I've received from all of you, in this oh-so-long bulletin period. I again profusely apologize to you all. This is just nearly embarrassing. I'm almost scared to make another promise about trying to do better, but believe me (yeah, sure), I will. We're all in this together, and I can't do it without you. So do keep those e-mails and the news coming. If you take a trip, tell me (which makes me wonder, "Where are you you, 1960's ROBERTA A. RICE
?" It's been WAY too long since I heard from you!) If you have a new grandchild, let me know. If you get a new car, tell me. If you get married, tell me. You get the idea, I'm sure.

Yes, we do have to report it when we hear of a death. I know none of us likes that, but don't we at least want to know? Are you there, 1965's STEVEN F. SHADE? If I've missed any of the ones of whom you know, please tell me, so that I can pass it along.

Let's all avoid the flu, although I'm not sure it's QUITE as bad as they're saying. But I'm sure not going to Mexico anytime soon, regardless (and I hope 1956's ANITA RAE MASON and her 1957 sister, SARAH M. "JACKIE" MASON aren't going, either, as they normally do, at this time of year).

Let's all try to stay connected, in spite of my own recent, lacking efforts. Call that old pal, visit that sick friend, send that card, make that call! It does truly matter. Above all, though, reserve the time for our alumni weekend. If you're not on the mailing list, GET on it! Do NOT miss the WC functions. They're fabulous and fun and oh-so-wonderful.

So I've finally done it. Again, I'm sorry for the very long interval. As I bid farewell for this edition, I leave each of you with my fondest wish for glowing health, great happiness, peaceful serenity, spiritual harmony, and boundless prosperity. Ciao!
- posted by Mikey @ 6:38 PM