Class Columns: 1950s

1950

Irving S. Bravman
211 Colonial Homes Drive NW, Apt. 2309
Atlanta, GA 30309-5201
bravman@comcast.net

President: Donald B. Chubb
Fund Manager: Donald B. Chubb
Reunion
Chair: James R. Madara
Web Page Administrator: Irving S. Bravman

I am sorry that I wasn’t able to attend the big 60th in June. To those of you who were able to attend, I hope that you enjoyed a great weekend. How about an update for the next column?

Jack Middleton ’50

Jack Middleton ’50

Congratulations to Jack Middleton of Freedom, N.H., who was recognized by the New Hampshire Supreme Court for his years of service and commitment to the bar and to the judicial branch of New Hampshire. This is only the second time the court has given such an award for an individual’s life’s work. Jack is president of McLane, Graf, Raulerson & Middleton, with offices in New Hampshire and Massachusetts, and is senior member of the firm’s litigation department. He focuses on arbitration and mediation, and has 50 years of experience as a trial lawyer and 24 years of service as a New Hampshire District Court judge. Middleton’s firm was one of only five law firms recognized by the New Hampshire Supreme Court for their pro bono efforts. In the past, Jack received a Boston University Law Silver Shingle Award for notable contributions to the legal profession, leadership within the community, unfailing service to the School of Law, and superlative contributions to society.

Russell Dotts of Newark, Del., passed away June 18. He attended Penn State University before World War II but graduated from Lafayette. He owned and operated R.L. Instruments until his retirement. He enjoyed sailing and fishing and was a man of great determination, refusing to give up or become despondent even after a car accident left him paralyzed. He was predeceased by his first wife, Isabella, and his second wife, Jean. He is survived by his son, Stewart, and his wife, Ellen, and their sons, Ryan and Stephen.

On May 2, we lost Romaine Deacon of Barto, Pa. “Deac” was married for 57 years to the late Josephine. He served in the Army in the Korean War, and was employed for 47 years in sales and sales management at Wallace & Tiernan. He leaves two sons and a daughter, their spouses, and three grandchildren.

Napoleon Morneau Jr. of East Longmeadow, Mass., died April 14. Nap graduated from Lafayette with a bachelor’s in metallurgical engineering. He worked for 29 years as a plant metallurgist at the Springfield Armory and General Electric. He also taught science in the Springfield, Mass., school system for 11 years. During World War II, he served in the Air Force, involved in special operations with 801st/492nd Bombardment Group, known as “The Carpetbaggers.” He was a past president of the St. Vincent DePaul Society, prepared and served meals monthly at Loaves and Fishes, and was active with Lions Club, Knights of Columbus, and the Elks. Nap was an avid Boston Red Sox fan and follower of UConn women’s basketball. His wife, Jean, predeceased him. Surviving are his sister, Lea, and his companion of 20 years, Rose Winn.

I am sorry to report the June 23 death of Dr. Alan Petty of Arnold, Md. Upon graduation from high school, he enlisted in the Marine Corps and served in the Pacific theater during World War II. He graduated from Lafayette with a bachelor’s degree in engineering physics. After time as a research physicist at the Franklin Institute in Philadelphia, where he worked on radar and airborne fire control systems, he moved to RCA labs in Camden, N.J., where he worked on programs relating to military weaponry and detection and surveillance systems. In 1959, Alan moved to General Electric’s Space Sciences Laboratory, where he worked on several well-known space projects. In 1970, he earned a Ph.D. in astrophysics from the University of Pennsylvania. In 1972, he joined the Naval Research Laboratory in Washington, D.C. As founder and first branch head of the Digital Image Processing Laboratory, he worked on the development of synthetic aperture radar used on satellites. He retired in 1989. Alan enjoyed fishing, nature, reading, and woodworking. Jeanne, his wife of 53 years, died in 2008. A son, two daughters, and one grandson survive him.

We also lost Richard Brown Sr., a lifelong resident of Interlaken, N.J, June 1. After graduation from high school in 1943, he entered the Cadet Pilot Program and flew 39 combat missions over occupied Europe in a B-17 as a tail gunner. After service, he entered Stevens Institute of Technology and later transferred to Lafayette. He worked for the Asbury Park (N.J.) Press for 40 years, much of the time as production manager. His first wife, Janet, passed away in 1981. He later married Mary Gay Rockefeller. On his retirement, the Browns enjoyed traveling, and Dick was active in the community, serving as a council member in Interlaken for 16 years, president of the Asbury Rotary Club, and president of the United Way. His wife, four children, seven grandchildren, two stepchildren, and three step-grandchildren survive him.

We also received a notice about the death of Geoffrey Kalmanson Dec. 1, 2007.

Our thoughts go out to all of the families who have lost loved ones reported in this column.

1951

John B. Cornish
1424-C Catasauqua Road
Bethlehem, PA 18017-7473
jbcornish@plazarealty.net

President: Joseph I. Diamond Jr.
Fund Manager: Henry Kohlenberger Jr.
Reunion Chair: Richard H. Knox

1952

John D. Kinard
209 Buttonwood Way
Glenside, PA 19038-3305
suzanne.kinard@verizon.net

President: Open
Fund Manager: Hugh H. Jones Jr.
Reunion Chair: John D. Kinard
Web Page Administrator: Open

Reunion 2010, Friday, June 4, was a remarkable occasion, a grand evening. It began with dinner in Marquis Hall, sharing with ’Pards like Marty Zippel ’49, Lois and Leon Fox ’53, and two of the five Landis brothers, Glenn ’44 and Ed ’56.

The key elements of our alumni get-together included President Daniel H. Weiss giving us a superb “State of the College” revue at a most challenging time in our history. Then came the renewal of a treasured custom from ’Pard evenings past: step singing on the steps of Old Pardee. Led by The Graduates, we gathered where ’Pards should be, more than 100 of us, candles in hand, lighting the early evening darkness with Lafayette carols in heartwarming song, such as “0, Lafayette,” “Way Down in Easton Is a College (and Lafayette Is Her Name),” “On Lafayette”—our own fight song—and “We’ll Gather by the Twilight’s Glow (in Front of Old Pardee)”—our own hymn—as we all responded, “On Olympus set, hail to Lafayette.” Congratulations, alumni office, for a great Reunion Weekend!

On recovering from the loss of Cy: We need all of your help, now more than ever.

Members of Class of 1952 present:

  • Reunion – the Easton cabal
  • Alumni Summer College – Larry Houstoun, Sonny and Dan Gichner

Pete Carril was spotted on TV in the front row at Citizens Bank Park June 6, when the Phillies played the San Diego Padres.

In other sporting news, Andrew Poulson ’10, #90, co-captain and superb defensive tackle on our Pard 11, was the first player to use my father’s locker in our new Kamine Varsity House. Lafayette players’ lockers are still available for purchase.

Your correspondent, “Le Bruisier,” is retiring from the Leopard Luncheon of our Philadelphia Alumni Chapter after 22 years and some 110 luncheons, passing the torch to two youngsters: Andy Starfield ’04 and Bill Casey ’85. All the best to them.

Our ’52 loss: Henry Bangser at 80, a loyal, contributing Leopard, passed on June 14. Hank was an economics and business major and a brother of Pi Lam. He and his wife, Rita, gave us a Leopard, Cary Bangser Scottoline ’76, a son, Robert, and four grands. Henry was an active, caring, concerned volunteer for many charities, including Lafayette in his generosity. He will be sorely missed. Thanks, Henry.

Finally, Bill Simon lives on. I recently uncovered a Simon classic in Bill’s inimitable handwriting:

Miniver Cheever, child of scorn,

Cursed the day that he was born.

Clearly, our Bill paid attention in his English classes at both Blair Academy in Blairstown, N.J., and Lafayette. Thanks for the memories, Sir William. Aloha. Go ’Pards!

1953

Leon H. Fox Jr.
6 Firethorne Circle
Lafayette Hill, PA 19444-2405
foxls@msn.com

President: Alan FitzGibbon
Fund Manager: George E. Patton Jr.
Reunion Chair: H. David Moore Jr.

George Patton reports that our class had 68 donors as of April; however, a 56 percent increase in total giving raised $73,172 for the Annual Fund. George also received a nice letter from our scholarship recipient, Bryan C. Hendrickson ’10, whose grandfather is Art Hendrickson ’51. Bryan reports that he has been redesigning Metzgar Fields. Also, the David Peach Project proposal that he and friends submitted was accepted, so they will travel to Bogota, Columbia, to conduct a camp for impoverished children. The Class of 1953 Scholarship had one recipient, and the grant amount was $2,959. The book value of the scholarship is $25,009.67, and the market value is $41,224.65.

George and “eight guys” went to the Phillies’ spring training and watched seven games. George keeps busy and plays golf, and Lorraine is still improving from her stroke. They had lunch with Barbara Lamont and Art Whitaker and his wife in Hazelton, Pa., June 13. Art is with a new firm, Wells Fargo Financial, and is active in politics as well.

The Pattons had lunch with Betsy and Dav Hubinger in Wilmington, Del., July 5th. Dav still plays tennis, golfs, and bowls.

Jane and Chuck Flanagan planned to head north July 21 for a week at the YMCA Sandy Island Family Camp on Lake Winnipesaukee, N.H., with their family, including the four grandkids. Next would be three weeks in Bayside on Penobscot Bay in Maine before heading back to the family camp, where they were part of the staff until after Labor Day. They planned to see Paula and Charlie Kuehn while at Lake Winnipesaukee. In September, they hoped to be in Charleston, S.C., for a reunion with folks they met on their China trip. The Kuehns were at Lafayette in late June and took a student-led walking tour of the impressive campus, programs, and activities. It brought back many old memories. Chuck, who has been retired for about 15 terrific years, says they are in good health and remain active.

John Wilson[*see editor’s note below] reports that he and Jean retired in 1987. He spent 32 years with New York Life Insurance Co., 10 years in Trenton, N.J., and 22 commuting from Bucks County, Pa., to New York City. He retired as a vice president. His dad, Bill Wilson ’24, was also with the company. In 2000, John and Jean moved to Pennswood, a Quaker-managed life care community in Newtown, Pa. They used to spend each summer at the Chautauqua Institution in New York, enjoying all the symphonies concerts, operas, recitals, lectures, swimming, golf, and great, cool weather, but health issues curtailed this. John reports that two of his three sons graduated from Lafayette (David ’81 and Steven ’82); all three have done very well in their careers. He and Jean have eight grandchildren.

Our sincere condolences to the family of Thomas A. Behney, who died June 26. Tom was active in the Lebanon (Pa.) Bar Association and for many years was assistant attorney general for Pennsylvania.

We extend our sympathy to the family of M. Edgar Rosenblum, who died April 18. He was an arts executive who nurtured Long Wharf Theatre in New Haven, Conn., into one of the most prominent regional theaters. He is survived by his wife, Cornelia, and daughter, Jessica.

On April 22, Lois and I attended the 139th Annual Philadelphia Chapter Dinner, featuring President Daniel Weiss. It was wonderful seeing Betsy and Al Rhodes. After a yearlong illness, Al is doing well.

Philadelphia alumni have been busy; recently, we joined them for an evening at the Phillies.

[*Editor’s Note: John Wilson passed away Oct. 1 just prior to press time for Lafayette Magazine. An obituary will be published in the next column.]

1954

John A. Ferrante
4 Del Mesa Carmel
Carmel, CA 93923
irenaferr@aol.com

President: Ronald E. Philipp
Fund Manager: Robert Aiello

Barbara and Ron Philipp sent a note about Bryan Hendrickson ’10, a recipient of the Class of 1954 scholarship fund. Brian works near Trenton, N.J. He and his brother share an apartment and develop and market web sites. They teamed up with an artist to renovate an old warehouse for use by artists, inventors, and other creative people.

Thomas Arcorace, 77, of Easton, died Nov. 27, 2008, in New Eastwood, Wilson Borough, Pa. Tom, an English major, was an attorney in private practice in Easton for many years. He was a member of St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church. His cousins survive him.

Jay F. Bitting died May 12 at his home in Chatham, N.J. He was a member of Chi Phi. Jay worked on The Marquis in his junior and senior years and played freshman baseball. He retired from J.P. Morgan as a vice president. One of Jay’s joys was attending New York Giants baseball games. His loving companion, Marilyn Lyn Mackie, and his children, Leslie, Carol, Pamela, and Nicholas, survive him. His first wife, Joan, predeceased him. His second wife was Mary.

Richard Van Ommeren, 77, of Macungie, Pa., died June 11. He was the husband of Gayla for 43 years. Richard graduated in economics and was active in the Soles Hall programs and Brainerd Student Union. He was a certified public accountant in Perkasie, N.J., and for 26 years was an officer and partner of the general contracting firm, Penn Builders Inc. of Quakertown, Pa., before retiring in 1995. He was a member of First Presbyterian Church, Allentown, Pa. Richard’s survivors include his wife, son David, and several grandchildren.

1955

John W. Gilbert Jr.
12 W. Edinburgh Road
Ocean City, NJ 08226-4618
(609) 399-3109
pards55@comcast.net

President: Ralph O. Doederlein Sr.
Fund Managers: Thomas F. McGrail, Mark B. Weisburger
Reunion Chair: Ralph O. Doederlein Sr.

I attended Reunion; 25 class members showed up. The College said it was a good turnout, coming as it did after our 50th. Art Rothkopf gave an informative talk at the class dinner Saturday night.

As senior vice president of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, he was able to give us an insider view of Washington, D.C. He retired in July.

Gerald P. Sigal, 75, died July 4 in Okracoke Island, N.C. The founder of Tri-County Legal Services, he practiced law for 50 years in NYC and Reading, Pa. Jerry served on the boards of the Reading Regional Airport Authority and Berks County Municipal Authority and was chair of the Ocracoke Board of Adjustment. He was an officer of the Reading Public Library and active in his synagogue. He is survived by his wife, two sons, and several grandchildren.

Gerald E. Beach, 83, passed away April 6 at a nursing home in Yarmouth, Mass., on Cape Cod. His son Craig notified the College. There was no formal obituary.

1956

Donald L. Mitchell
365 Carr Hill Road
Gettysburg, PA 17325
(717) 642-9094
dmitchell365@comcast.net

President: Richard W. Graham
Fund Manager: Cornelius Alexander IV
Reunion Chair: H. Kermit Green Jr.

I’ll begin at the beginning by reporting on a wonderful phone conversation with the man at the top of our class alphabet—and an outstanding alumnus—Dr. Rashid Abdu. I learned some details of his life that I didn’t know, or forgot: After his youth in Yemen, he spent his high school years in Falls Church, Va., won a full scholarship to Lafayette, and later attended medical school at George Washington University. For those unaware, he authored a memoir, Journey of a Yemeni Boy. Following the death of his wife, Joanie, from breast cancer 16 years ago, Rashid became engrossed in the care of breast cancer patients and has spearheaded the Joanie Abdu Comprehensive Breast Care Center at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital in Youngstown, Ohio. The center covers the whole gamut of care, from initial consultation and diagnosis to postoperative prosthetic counseling and support. The multidisciplinary program features state of the art technology necessary to the collaborating specialties. They even provide genetic counseling, as well as counseling for children and spouses of breast cancer patients. Rashid has been instrumental in raising $6 million of the $8 million needed to complete the facility, one of the few breast cancer treatment centers in Ohio.

His benevolent concerns don’t end there. Rashid also coordinates The Mission of Love, an enterprise that has donated a truckload of new medical equipment to the recovery efforts in Haiti. In addition, The Mission of Love sponsors and staffs clinics in the Gulf area since Katrina, and in Guatemala, with particular focus on the surgical correction of cleft palates. Apart from these works, Rashid enjoys his home in Canfield, Ohio, and time with his four children and three grandchildren.

I had an enjoyable phone chat with another of our classmates near the top of our alphabetical list, Neil Alexander. He was tending to his duties as class fund manager, calling to nudge me into a contribution. I was saved embarrassment by my having submitted a gift a few days earlier. Neil is one busy guy, keeping tabs on good friends and lifelong insurance customers, running high school reunions, and consulting on finances. We plan to get together the next time I visit my son, Don, and his family in Flourtown, Pa., a town away from Radnor, Pa., where “Shark” and JoAnne make their bed each morning.

Jim Murphy made a full recovery after a minor stroke in fall 2009. Following retirement after 40 years with Scott Paper Co., he filled an entirely different space as administrative assistant in the synod office of the Lutheran bishop of southeastern Pennsylvania. He held the position for seven (an important Biblical digit) years. It has been said that God is the divine architect and engineer, so it’s no surprise that a mechanical engineer of Murph’s caliber gravitated to a higher calling. In addition to an active role in his church family, he gives considerable time to other volunteer services, notably as past president of the homeowners association, and currently its transition team. I was happy to hear that he recently enjoyed an extended lunch with Joyce Veitch, our beloved Don Veitch’s widow. Joyce was in the Kennett Square, Pa., area, visiting her daughter, who is married to a son of Neil McKinnon ’53.

Murph brought me up to date on other classmates and Lafayette alums. He stays in touch with Evan Hineman, who prevails over recurrent cancer by sheer force of good doctors and determination. In the course of his career, Evan worked within the intelligence community, including the CIA, and is now a self-employed consultant. For his contributions in the global intelligence field, Evan received a lifetime achievement award. Murph also mentioned Sandy Smith, who continues treatment for cancer and diabetes. Those of us who cheered on Bob Machiorlette on the baseball field will always admire the loyalty and love that Sandy and Janet extended to Bob during the protracted illness that precipitated his death. We wish Sandy and Evan calmer days. Murph also keeps up with some of our mutual friends in other classes: Charley Wilson ’57, who like Murph spent his career with Scott Paper; two Phi Psi brothers, John Moser ’57 and Bob Moss ’57; and Don Cornelius ’54. Murph tells me he connects on and off with Norm Riley and wife Linda, partly because of mutual friends, racehorse breeders Gretchen and Roy Jackson, owners of the exciting Kentucky Derby winner, Barbaro, who, sadly, was euthanized in January 2007 after surgery failed to repair the leg shattered in the Preakness.

Lee and Carol Kane just celebrated the marriage of the youngest of their three sons. Though the nest is empty, Lee and Carol continue the good life they’ve enjoyed since his retirement from, and 1991 sale of, the Kane family scrap iron and metal business. Lee often speaks with Neil Alexander, still connects with Al and Elaine Ehrlich, and does a fair amount of golfing, and tennis, when opportunity arises. Lee and Carol return frequently to the Hill for football games, and each year for commencement, a ritual that began when good friend and fraternity brother Arthur Rothkopf ’55 was named president of Lafayette.

My roomy Charlie Myers, whose wife Donna has been ill for several months with increasing loss of mobility, informs me they moved her consulting firm into their home to enhance accessibility. Her doctors, stymied by her case, have referred her to Johns Hopkins for consultation and evaluation. Our prayers go out to Donna and Charlie.

I had a brief chat with Lew Beers, who makes his home in King of Prussia, Pa. He retired from GE some years ago after putting his mechanical engineering skills at their disposal for his entire career. He passes a lot of his time on the Internet keeping up with science and technology advances.

I called Jim Phelps and interrupted his and a friend’s fishing trip to New England. Jim and wife Jane are maintaining a busy schedule in spite of ongoing orthopedic concerns.

I continue to keep track of Phi Delt brothers from ’56–’59:

Dick Faust has come through a bout with bladder cancer, but with his usual optimistic outlook. Skip Ellison ’57 and Gordie Brown ’57 keep me posted with frequent emails, especially with reference to what has become an annual event, Phi Delt Reunion IV. This year, 16 of us, and our spouses, will meet at the Harvard game and celebrate the Leopard victory with dinner together, before heading home. Joe Bozik ’58 has been on the planning committee, with special emphasis on procuring a food factory for hungry ’Pards like us. I visit Skip and Mary whenever possible and am glad to say that he continues to make evident progress after his stroke. Gordy informs me that he and Delia planned to attend the 50th wedding anniversary of Cy and Barbara Blackfan ’57 in Medina, Ohio, in the fall. Congrats, Cy and Barbara!

Another Phi, Russ Wells ’59, will return to the Hill for our reunion in 2011. Russ, a history major, became a professor of biology at St. Lawrence University. He is now retired and lives near his daughter and her family in Selinsgrove, Pa.

The only other news to report is that Marion and I sailed to England on the Queen Mary 2 two days after I submitted these Class Notes. We planned to take in London, then train and ferry to Ireland for several days, before making our way back through Wales and Cornwall to Southampton in time to catch the return voyage to the Brooklyn docks.

I appreciate the time several of you gave me in phone conversations and also time taken by those of you who keep in touch by email. Really, there’s little excuse for not staying connected more often through the convenience of instantaneous Internet linkage. I hope you hear my sincere interest in your comings and goings. Reach out!

1957

Glenn E. Grube
77 Eagle Harbor Trail
Palm Coast, FL 32164-6149
(386) 437-9715
glenngrube@bellsouth.net

President: Walter Oechsle
Fund Manager: Robert E. Moss
Reunion Chair: Glenn E. Grube
Web Page Administrator: David E. Cary, www.class1957.net, decary35@aol.com

A promise is a promise! After a significant number of classmates requested I perform some “GG Magic,” I contacted Pam Jacobs and asked her to suggest cruises for January 2011. By the time you read this column, most of you will have responded to the email and received hard copy invitations to join your classmates, relatives, and friends on the Carnival Destiny out of Miami, Fla., for an eastern Caribbean cruise, Jan. 10–15. The cost of this cruise is unbelievably low. Mike McCooey, who recently retired from his year-round ski resort position, and his wife, Leslie, will be joining us for their first-ever cruise. If you have not yet signed up, go to our class web site for all the necessary information and the form. We look forward to a great time!

Gordie Brown and his wife, Delia, spent the first week of April at Hank and Carol Darlington’s beautiful hacienda in Los Barriles on the Baja Peninsula of Mexico. Gordie gave me a big thank you for encouraging him to go on our first class cruise in 2005, which allowed him to renew his friendship with Hank. To learn more about the Browns, who just celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary, join us in Miami.

Skip Ellison responded to my request for news and shared a lot of history about his Phi Delt classmates Cy Blackfan, Wayne Hainley, and three others who have since passed away. He also shared that Ray Milhous, Bill Schwartz, and Bruce Tempest were classmates of his at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine. Again, if Skip gets to Miami with his luggage and comes aboard ship, we will have six days to catch up on his lifetime of activities. Maybe even Don Mitchell ’56, yet another Phi Delt, will join us.

Glenn (my namesake) Fatzinger cannot join us, as he is still teaching business courses at Marymount University in Virginia. He will be in the Easton area to attend a mini reunion of Wilson High School in September and remains a steadfast follower of the Leopards whenever a team plays in the Washington, D.C., area.

Bill Pfotzer is confined to a wheelchair because of congenital spinal stenosis and cannot join us, but wishes that we have a great cruise. We wish him well.

Bob Moss and Dave Cary continue to keep our class informed and always near the top of every positive list that comes from the College. Three students benefited from our Class of 1957 Endowed Internship Fund originally instituted through Bob’s efforts. Go to Dave’s web site to catch up on a tremendous amount of information about our class.

Herbert Joseph “Burt” Gannon died in April. Dale Swann sent me the announcement of Burt’s death, which was soon followed by details from the College. Burt was living in Venice, Fla., having moved 18 years ago from New Jersey with his wife, Joan. As Dale shared, “He will be remembered fondly for his gentle ways and that straw hat with the bird feathers and sharks teeth.” Our condolences to Burt’s extended family.

Our condolences also go out to John Duncan, who advised that his wife, Lois, passed away in April.

Again, I am beginning to wear down after writing this column for the past 39 years. Gordie, Skip, Glenn, Dave, George Tiger, Dick Morgan, Chuck Lusch, and Ray Jacoby regularly send me updates, but I still would appreciate one or two volunteers who would write one column every year or so as guest columnist for the Class of 1957. Of special importance will be the opportunity for the guest columnist to share information about classmates whom I do not regularly hear from or see. Call or email me to volunteer and get additional information about gathering information and writing the column.

1958

Edward Brunswick
4931 Bonita Bay Blvd., Apt. 801
Bonita Springs, FL 34134
(239) 949-0801
(239) 949-0802 (fax)
ebrunsw901@aol.com

Jim Hourihan
8513 Sparger St.
McLean, VA 22102-1715
(703) 821-8225
jahourihan@hhlaw.com

President: Elbern H. Alkire Jr.
Fund Manager: S. Robert Beane Jr.
Reunion Chairs: C. Douglas Cherry, Spencer A. Manthorpe
Web Page Administrator: Elbern H. Alkire Jr., alkire1121@gmail.com

In the middle of June, while driving from New York City to Maine, your correspondent (Ed Brunswick) took a side trip to Portsmouth, N.H., to visit with Bob and Rosa Beane for lunch. They have a lovely house on the sound and were gracious hosts. Bob told me that he bought the house from Dennis Kozlowski, now in jail for the Tyco deal. Bob loves the private wine cellar. He has his own wines there, plus a good stash of cigars. It’s a relaxed atmosphere for the two of them. Bob ran into one of my neighbors from Florida and had to listen to “Brunswick stories” for an hour. I’ll deny them all.

My wife, Beth, ran a concert to raise money for the Health Center in Rangeley, Maine. This is the second time she has done this. The attraction was The Beach Boys. Yes, the real Beach Boys. They played for 100 minutes and performed all of their popular songs. The group attended the VIP reception before the event and afterwards, then they went to the bar across the street from their hotel and jammed with the locals. Great event—and made some money too.

A few months ago, I befriended Jack Walp on Facebook. Then I got a notice that he passed away. I always enjoyed hearing from him; I’m sorry he is gone. Born in Nanticoke, Pa., Jack went from Penn Charter in Philadelphia to Lafayette. He was in Navy Intelligence for five years and spent his career in consumer advertising. His wife, Beryl, and a loving family of children and grandchildren survive him.

Richard Repert passed away May 15. He spent five years in the Army as a commissioned officer and remained in the reserves, attaining the rank of lieutenant colonel. His career in the nonprofit area included serving as an officer for such charities as Children and Family Services, United Way, Salvation Army, and Protective Services for the Elderly. A private memorial service was held May 21 in Fairfax, Va.

The fact that the College sent out reminders to our entire class brought in many news items. Here we go!

Steve Fried writes that he is still in commercial real estate, although his son, Ron, really runs the business. Steve and wife Nina returned from a cruise in the South Pacific that put them over 500 total days at sea on cruises. After 15 years, he is still on the board of directors of the Screen Actors Guild, having served as third vice president, 2000–05. He recently visited the New York Fresh Air Fund camp where he met his wife 56 years ago. They celebrate their 54th anniversary in January. (As an aside, for me to be married to Beth for 54 years, it would be 2045, and I would be 109 years old.)

Charlie Bennett says he is still in Reynolds Plantation in Greensboro, Ga. He spoke to Ed Alkire in June to wish him and Gratia a happy 50th anniversary. Ann and Charlie are in traveling mode, having planned an Africa trip for the end of August. The Bennetts have been spending February and March in Bonita Springs. They plan to do so again this year, and between the two of us, maybe we can have some sort of mini-reunion with hot chocolate and tea sandwiches. They have family spread throughout the South in Nashville and Louisville.

Sam Saidel has been doing some traveling but finds the Northeast boring because he has read everything and can’t play golf. He has problems with his shoulder. So, the Saidels took their boat and headed to the Hamptons for some sun and fun. Sam still does some sort of work, because business meetings keep messing up his social activities. When he comes to the west coast of Florida, I hope to see him.

Because someone added my name to their distribution list, I keep getting news of the Phi Delts. There was a planned reunion during the Lafayette–Harvard game in October. The list of those who might have attended that mini reunion includes Joe Bozik and Peg Marcin, Dave and Betty Branch, Bob and Betty Graham, Jim and Sharon Hourihan, Don and Nancy Kitson, and Bill and Lucille Kurtz. I’m sure other classmates may have attended, so I’ll have an update for the next column.

Bob Harris plans to move to Kennebunkport, Maine (rubbing elbows with the Bush family), in the next six to nine months, depending on when he and his wife  sell their house. Bob is active in the dog show world. The Harrises showed their Scottish terrier in some major shows this fall. The dog has already won a number of blue ribbons and has three stud dates lined up in the next few months. This dog could be my hero. Westminster may be his next stop.

Nick Rotondo is still writing in Lotus, Calif. He had his 240th article published. This is his 10th year as president of the El Dorado County Writers Guild, and it is the third year of his teaching memoir-writing classes to senior citizens. He and wife Mary celebrate their 50th anniversary in January and will take a cruise around the world.

Lem Howell never knew how to say anything in a few words. He is a welcome joy when I receive his emails, which are full of fun, yet also some serious subjects. Lem, keep it up. Recently, he got a write-up in Super Lawyers and attended Alumni Summer College at Lafayette, July 15–18. He expected John Piper to be there, but John was on a trip out of the country. President Daniel H. Weiss gave a fascinating lecture on medieval art. I join Lem in his thought that Lafayette is extremely fortunate to have President Weiss as our leader. Lem continues: “Weiss pulled a coup de grâce by delivering the final lecture on Vietnam, the subject of his upcoming book. There was not a dry eye in the place.” Other professors spoke, and it was great. The food was better than he remembers as a student. Forty-five people attended the session, and Lem plans to return next year.

Lou Lyons writes that he retired 15 years ago. We all know that Lou has had severe health issues over the years, but he remains active in his computer club, where he is a past president and chief tech support guru for about 10 years. He sends his regards to all and thanks everyone for their support during his illness.

Dave Zeyher writes that he spent the winter in the Bahamas on his boat. He is a ham radio enthusiast and passed the highest-level licensing exam, Amateur Extra Class. If any of you are ham operators, Dave’s call sign is KB3UBN. Contact him; he’ll love it. I hope he will be in the Florida area this winter so we can get together.

Bob Felsenheld had lunch with Marty Phillips and Ray Hersh during the spring. Both have some health issues. Bob had a knee replacement Jan. 8 but is back playing golf and tennis.

Jerry Flanzbaum usually comes up to the Northeast right after Labor Day, but he delayed his trip because he and Marilyn planned to go to Greenland. They expect to fish in some exotic spots. He says his wife out-fishes him, especially when she caught a 12-pound northern pike on her ultra-light, 4-foot rod, with 6-pound test.

Bob Yohe will be buried in Arlington Cemetery during Thanksgiving. I had dinner with Judy before I left Florida, and she brought me up to date on the family. She spends the entire year in Florida now, as she sold the home in Pennsylvania. She has filled her schedule with travel, but welcomes old friends to catch up with her.

The gift-giving never ends. Please remember your alma mater when working on trusts and wills, or when considering sponsoring a scholarship.

Stay well.

1959

Norbert F. Smith
227 River’s Edge
Williamsburg, VA 23185-8933
(757) 229-7377
norbert.f.smith@cox.net

President: Edwin H. Feather Jr.
Fund Manager: James F. Mallay
Reunion Chairs: Jordan Engelman, Bruce L. Forbes
Web Page Administrator: Frank V. Hermann, frankh@lasvegas.net

Greetings to all our ’59 classmates, wherever you may be! Well, after enduring one of the coldest winters in recent years, we then experienced one of our warmest summers—go figure! This column will include class activities and classmate updates through late July. As always, thanks to those classmates who contributed; your updates make this column interesting, informative to all, and help keep us connected. Speaking of column updates, if you did not receive a June email from me requesting updates, then I do not have your current email address. Sending your email address to me would be appreciated—thanks! Current limitations on column length no longer enable me to thank each of you for submitting your update or to provide comments, but please know that I greatly appreciate hearing from each of you, and our classmates do as well!

For the computer literate who wish to find our class photos online, the College has updated its web site, so we have new instructions:

  • Go to magazine.lafayette.edu.
  • In the right sidebar of the magazine web page, click on Class Notes: 1950s.
  • Scroll down to the end of the text file to see the photo gallery for the 1950s.

Hope this helps!

Jim Mallay, our superb class fund manager, has submitted his “Annual Fund Status for the Class of 1959 for the Year Ending June 30, 2010”: “The Class of 1959 met its usual objective of outstanding giving to Lafayette this past year (July 2009 to June 2010) to both the Annual Fund and to capital needs. Giving to the Annual Fund was down about 5 percent from our 50th reunion year, which is typical of most classes, from $103K to $98K. The number of donors was also down from 65 to 55 percent of the class. The total class giving, including donations to capital projects, was still robust at $546K, compared to last year’s $755K. Great news! The Class of 1959 Marquis Scholarship Fund, which is still nearly $100K below goal, is making a significant difference for Lafayette students, however. The earnings from this fund will be awarded to a deserving student each year, and the student will be named ‘The Class of 1959 Marquis Scholar,’ even though the gift from the endowment will be less than the total award to the student. The shortfall will be taken from the budgeted financial aid pool for all Marquis Scholars.” Jim also stated that by the time you will have read this report, you will have received a letter from him, sent in October, challenging each classmate to keep up the good work. Jim’s email is jamesmallay@aol.com.

Len Achey sent the following note: “Marlys and I are planning to be on campus for THE GAME in November. I have a huge responsibility educating people in Spokane, Wash. that Lafayette College is NOT located in Indiana or Louisiana! Marlys and I continue to explore the beautiful Pacific Northwest with family and friends. We recently visited the Brothel Museum in Wallace, Idaho. The brothel closed in 1988, just before the FBI arrived on the scene. Wallace was also known for silver mining and having the only traffic light on Interstate 90.” Len’s email: lenachey@comcast.net.

Here’s an update from Gerry Crean, one of ’59’s great basketball stars: “On May 30, my son Gerry III ’84 and I went to Yankee Stadium, where we hooked up with Dick Kohler and his son Rich Jr. ’84. We had terrific seats and watched the New York Yankees play the Cleveland Indians. The Yanks made a late comeback and won the game. The Kohlers, who are Phillies fans, and my son, a Red Sox fan, were disappointed, but I’m a Yankees fan, and I thought the game was great! After the game we went to Gallagher’s Steak House on 57th Street and had a great meal. Dick and I were the best baseball players that day, as we both pitched no-hit games; yes, our sons picked up all the tabs! Everyone had a great time. Earlier this year, Jamie Hughes ’05 came to Southington, Conn., to meet me for breakfast to discuss his role at Lafayette. It was an interesting meeting. When Jamie stood up, his 7-foot frame was quite an attraction. The place we had breakfast did not take credit cards, and I got stuck with the tab. Well, you can’t win them all!” Gerry’s email: gptcjr1212@aol.com.

Dr. Ed Curley sent a nice update: “There are a couple of major events in my life. First, I’ve finally retired, at age 73, from the University of Michigan. This means that I will stop teaching, not that I will stop working. My aim is to have more time for my writing. If anyone’s curious about what I write, you can find several of my books on amazon.com, the ones by Edwin M. Curley. Those by Edwin A. Curley were written by my great-grandfather. The other thing is that there’s now a second wave of grandchildren, emanating from my son, Richard, who waited until he was in his 40s to get married. He and his wife had their first child, a daughter, last year, and are expecting a second this summer. My eldest grandchild, my daughter Julia’s daughter, is just finishing her first year in college. We thought for a while about the possibility of moving out to Denver, to be nearer Richard and his family, or back to Chicago, to be nearer Julia and her family. But it looks as though Ruth and I will probably stay in Ann Arbor, which we like a lot, and will look for some place warmer to go in the winter.” Ed’s email: emcurley@umich.edu.

Here’s the latest doings from our great Class President, Ed Feather: “We spent a delightful week in April at our timeshare in Hilton Head, S.C., and then on for another fun week at our timeshare in Orlando. In June, Mayleen and I attended the 50-Plus Club / 50th Reunion Class / Marquis Society Reception on Saturday of Reunion Weekend. They had a nice reception on the plaza in front of the old Memorial Gym. Later in June, we spent a weekend in Brigantine, N.J., just north of Atlantic City. Our daughter, Carol, has a little shack (and I mean it!) there with three bedrooms, a living area, a kitchen, and a deck on the bayside—just a place to eat, sleep, and go to the beach. We had a great time!” Ed’s email: feathersnest@hotmail.com.

Wally and Dot French celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary last Memorial Day with a surprise party thrown by their children and grandchildren, followed by a dinner party in June the couple hosted for their family. Wally and Dot were married June 11, 1960, in Plainfield, N.J. After graduation from Lafayette, Wally attended the Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania, and Dot graduated from Drew University. The couple co-founded Regulatory Research Associates Inc. in 1982, and the firm provided financial and regulatory information regarding public utilities to the financial community. Wally retired from the firm in 1999, and Dot retired in 2005. They are both active in their Presbyterian church, where they are Stephen Leaders and Stephen Ministers. Wally and Dot have three children: Bob, and his wife, Sandy; Scott, and his wife, Anne; Kathy, and her husband, Chris; and they have been blessed with six grandchildren. Wally’s email: w.dfrench@att.net.

Don Kein sent a great update on his family’s annual summer vacation on Cape Cod. “This area of the Cape is the elbow (Chatham, Mass.), and Janeen and I have been coming here for twenty years. Our kids grew up here (summers) and now our grandchildren are too. The place is nice, with a furnished out building where Janeen and I ‘bunk up.’ The kids and grandkids are in the main house.” Don also reports that he retired from his law practice in the fall. His new email address: donaldkein@gmail.com.

Rich Kohler, co-captain of Lafayette’s great ’58–’59 basketball team, sent a nice note: “I had a great time at John and Betty Ziegler’s 51st Phi Psi reunion in June. No one remembered who Mike Wilson was until he said he was the brother of Andy Wilson ’57. Gerry Crean and I spent the day at Yankee Stadium in the Cannon box with our two sons, Gerry III and Rich Jr., both Phi Psis, Lafayette Class of ’84 roommates, and business partners. I played golf with coach George Davidson, Tony Mack ’57, and Stu Murray ’57 in South Jersey. Coach still plays in the ’80s—his age. It was fun to play a sport with Murray and Mack where I had my own ball, without ever seeing the ball from them on the hardwoods!” Rich’s email: rkohler8@comcast.net.

I had not heard recently from Bill Lee, one of our world travelers, and here’s the reason: “I’ve been busy with health challenges. On June 22, I had a quadruple bypass procedure in Phoenix; I am on my cardiac rehab now and for the next several months. Travel plans are on hold until we go cruising in November with Grand Circle Great European River Cruises. That is about the time of the Christmas market displays, so the gals will be happy about that part. Meanwhile, I am on an enforced ‘staycation’ in Payson, Ariz. I am feeling better now that we are almost six weeks past the procedure and not taking pain pills anymore. I have three days of physical therapy or cardiac rehab a week, so that keeps me busy, along with the resting. We had lunch with John and Carole Clayton here in April, and they seem to be having a great time enjoying life. Next year is their 50th wedding anniversary, and they plan to go with their two kids on a European river cruise, which sounds grand.” Bill’s email: knblee2000@yahoo.com.

Erv Notter reports that he has a new email address: jbnewn@verizon.net.

Here’s a wonderful update from Dick Poey, one of our most talented alumni and a consistent column contributor! “It’s been an incredibly busy year so far. Here are some highlights. In mid-December, Heidi and I flew to Santiago, Chile, for a few days and then boarded a ship to go around Cape Horn, stopping at many interesting ports in Chile, Argentina, Falklands, and Uruguay, before ending up in the tango capital of the world, Buenos Aires. What a way to celebrate Christmas and New Year’s! It’s been a busy art season these past few months. I received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Society of Minnesota Sculptors. I have been in a number of shows this year, including the Spiritual Arts Show (yes, me); Society of Minnesota Sculptors Annual Exhibition; Hopkins Members Show, where I won Best of Show and People’s Choice awards; Minneapolis Luxury Homes Tour; the Minnetonka and Eden Prairie Arts Tours; and the National Sculpture Society’s online exhibition, “Recent Work.” The good news is that the arts business is picking up after a miserable 2009. Thank God for pensions!” Dick’s email: poeyart@comcast.net.

Nels Snook’s wife, Dee, sent me a note in late June: “Nels’ cancer had returned for the fifth time, and he had surgery to remove a tumor. All went well, and he recovered nicely. He will spend the rest of the summer in radiation therapy, as he still has one spot that needs attention. We all know that as soon as he can, he’ll be back at the racetrack watching his horses.” Nels’ email: dasnes@cox.net.

Jad Sortore, one of the most loyal contributors to our column, sent another wonderful update on the several travel adventures that he and Marian undertook in 2010: “Another year has slipped by with ‘business as usual’ here in Aiken, S.C. The one treasure that Marian and I stumbled upon last winter was Brookgreen Garden, south of Myrtle Beach, S.C. We spent two days there last January, taking informational walks given by knowledgeable volunteer docents. There are, inter alia, over 800 statues on the beautifully manicured grounds, plus a small zoo. This unique spot is definitely worth a visit. In April, Don and Janeen Kein stopped by as they returned from a long winter stay in Florida. Marian prepared Don’s favorite dinner one evening: English leg of lamb with all the trimmings. We had lots of fun hearing the old stories again! Later that month, Marian and I traveled to Vicksburg, Miss., for a reunion of my first naval ship, the USS San Pablo. A guided tour of the Civil War battlefield was included….The more I see of America, the more I love it.” Jad’s email: rooster1@gforcecable.com.

I received a nice note from Kurt Steckley, one of our near-campus classmates: “Good to hear from you. Life is peaceful here in the Lehigh Valley, in Forks Township. I realize there are many parts of the USA, like the Gulf, where life isn’t so good. I see that some California cities are looking to file bankruptcy to get out from under some benefits they agreed to pay in years past. The whole world seems to be having problems with earthquakes, floods, and mine disasters in China. I did participate in Lafayette’s Reunion 2010, in that I drove my ’87 Corvette in the parade. That was the extent of my participation. I did see that the Class of ’60 had a good turnout. Glad to hear that our great ’59 reunion record of last year still stands!” Kurt’s email: ksteckley@verizon.net.

Joe Stefanowicz, one of our greatest student athletes, sent a wonderful letter in the mail: “I look forward to seeing you and others on the Hill this year for some football. Here’s an update on things in Chadds Ford, Pa. My cancer has been in remission for 22 months now, and I feel good. Peggy and I just returned from an 11-day vacation in Panama. That was super! We went through the Canal on a 133-foot yacht, with just 19 other people. This was a lifetime dream come true. We even anchored overnight in Gatun Lake, mid-canal. Lastly, I just received notice that I am being inducted into the Delaware County (Pa.) Athletes Hall of Fame in October 2010 for my role as track and cross country coach at Ridley High School for 27 years, and cross country coach at Swarthmore College for 23 years.” Joe’s email: pg19317@verizon.net.

Here’s a nice update from my PKT brother, John Sterling: “I keep busy at the Daytona Beach Computer Learning Center site, where I teach Internet and email to seniors. I have two 1-year-old grandsons and a 3-year-old granddaughter. My brother-in-law Norm Leader ’61 and my sister passed through on their way back to Rochester, N.Y. They are doing well. I see Ed Skou about once a month. Sorry to see Phil Hamlin ’60 in the Alumni Memoriam.” John’s email: john.sterling@clearwire.net.

Jerry Turnauer, another of our consistent column contributors and one of our distinguished benefactors to the College, sent another great update: “Sandye and I spent most of the month of June in Friendswood, Texas, near Houston, to be with her sister both before and after her sister’s double bypass and heart valve replacement surgery. The operation was a success, but a couple of recuperation setbacks extended our stay to four weeks. I did get familiar with the Texas Medical Center and with the high-speed Texas highways. I visited Myrtle Beach, S.C., for the first time for our annual siblings’ reunion. Not being a golfer, Myrtle Beach was never in my sights as a destination, but after five wonderful days and a great time with my three sibs and their spouses, it certainly is now. We did do miniature golf but only because it was an air conditioned course indoors! I’d enjoy hearing from any classmates in the Tampa area, since we bought the Freightliner dealership in Tampa. I now spend several days in Tampa each month. As August approaches, we’re getting ready for a family cruise—19 of us—to Bermuda to celebrate Sandye’s special (is 70 special?) birthday. It’s a week cruise with three days in Bermuda, which is a delightful and welcoming place to visit. We’ll also start thinking of ideas to celebrate our 50th wedding anniversary, which we reach this December.” Jerry’s email: jturnauer@cox.net.

Bob Turner, another of my ’59 PKT brothers, sent a nice update: “We moved to Clovis, Calif., in August 2009 and now live with our youngest son and his family in a two-story farmhouse. We have three teenagers to keep the activity level going and one more who will be home from college for the summer. It is a wild trip, and at this rate, we will never get old, just feel like it!” Bob’s email: rhturnerag@yahoo.com.

Dick Wright sent a great update on the reunion of ’59 Phi Psi’s that took place last June: “At last year’s 50th reunion, several Phi Psis had such a good time getting together to share old stories and many laughs that they decided to get together in June for a 51st Reunion. John Ziegler, Jim Haering, Mike Wilson, Fritz Muench, Rich Kohler, and I, along with our wives, gathered at John and Betty Ziegler’s magnificent summer home on the water in Bay Head, N.J. The reunion began Thursday afternoon with cocktails, mandatory at all Phi Psi gatherings, and dinner. That was when the chiding, old war stories and endless laughter began, continuing nonstop through Sunday. The Zieglers proved to be fantastic hosts, having preplanned great dinners at their home, their country club, and their yacht club. Of course, these events always included a cocktail hour. John and Betty also had arranged box seats for everyone at the Monmouth Race Track, as well as another day of golf and swimming. The 51st reunion concluded on Sunday, with a plan to meet again for a 52nd next year at the Greenbrier in White Sulphur Springs, W.Va.” Dick’s email: cdrcrw@verizon.net.

With respect to yours truly, it’s “steady as she goes” for Maryellen and myself. We both keep busily engaged in all our local activities in the Williamsburg area. I always find time, however, to visit my young grandchildren in Southern California. I attended my grandson’s first communion and my granddaughter’s birthday in May, returning in late July to attend my grandson’s baseball “World Series.” They bring great joy to my heart! Maryellen and I extend a warm welcome to our ’59 classmates to come visit us in Williamsburg, any time of the year. Our guest bedrooms await you always!

1950s Photo Gallery