Comments from Classmates
Last Updated October 21, 2009. Arranged in Alphabetical Order of Last Given Name!
Note to all Classmates: Feel free to send in updates. Recent additions are highlighted by 
Christa Elaine Adams
"As a single parent with three small children, I completed my B.A., M.A., and Ph.D. Today I am a college president living in Ohio. Realistically, I have a solid career. Idealistically, I want to make a difference in this very complex world. My three children illustrate one way I have been able to make a difference. My older daughter is a physician in Dallas. Her husband is a celebrated entrepreneur with a successful Internet business. They have two children. My younger daughter has her M.S.W. and counsels children for the Colorado Dept. of Mental Health. Her husband is a high school coach. They have one child. My son is a high school English teacher in Austin, Texas."
Bonnie Allen Drake
"I retired this year. My husband of 40 years retired two years ago. We have traveled quite a lot and plan to continue. We have one married son and two grandchildren. We also make crafts and sell to retail stores. We play country music, clog dancing and Western Square dance. Gee, I need more paper..."
Helen A. Azbell
"I retired from Anchor Hocking after 35 years - now working part-time for my cousin's building firm and Judy Morehead's photography studio. Doing volunteer work with Twig groups and West School. Still working as much as possible. Thinking of new ideas for next reunion."
Gary H. Bailes
"This year starts my 4th year of retirement from the Lancaster High School System. My wife and I spent a month this past summer in Africa (the reason I missed this last reunion) visiting with my son and his wife who have been backpacking across Africa for ten months. We went on many safaris into the bush, cruised up the Zambezi River, camped out in the bush, flew over Victoria Falls, and panned for gold. We also climbed aboard elephants for a trek out into the bush."
Barbara Barker DeVore
"I am now enjoying retirement. My husband and I bought three acres of land in Jax, Florida. We plan to build and eventually move to Jax. Have a son who is in the Navy and a daughter living in Jax."
Carole Beth Bender Henderson
"We moved to Bowling Green, Ky. after living 50 years in Lancaster. We have been here 7 years, Dick has been retired three years. We have decided to remain in Ky. We do quite a bit of traveling, which was the reason for missing the last reunion. I still maintain very strong ties in Lancaster; we are only 6 hours away. I have one son living in Bowling Green, two daughters living in Columbus and a son in Chicago, four beautiful grandchildren and a wonderful life."
William C. Beougher
"I attended Otterbein College, Westerville, Ohio. I married in 1968 to Nancy Jean Gwisinger and then again in 1999 to Margaret Ellen Green. I have two children. A daughter, born in 1972, named Carla Jane, who is now 27. A son, born in 1975, named James William Beougher, who is now 24 years of age. I have a grandson, named Tristin Michael Wengert aged 4, and a granddaughter, Megan Marie Wenger born this July, 1999. I work as a forklift operator for now. I was a pastor of United Methodist Churches during the period: 1968 to 1980."
Alice Bope Oiler
"Resident of Las Vegas for 24 years. Husband: Gary. Cat: Scamper. Occupation: Registered Nurse Case Manager. Deacon @ First Presbyterian Church- Member of 90 voice chancel choir and sing with the Nevada Opera Theatre."
Tillie Bowers McCarty
"My inspiration comes from many different sources/directions and I want to thank Janet (Williams) DeLong for an inspiration I will carry for the rest of my life. Janet shared the story of her older aunt who wrote Janet's as _ _ _ _ _ _ _@hotstuff.com, and then called to see why the mail didn't fly. Perhaps '@hotmail.com would do the trick.
Thank you Janet for that lil'giggle from me each time I write an e:addy."
Michael D. Campbell
"For those of you who lost track of me after HS graduation, I spent a few years in college in Southern California. I came back in 1962 to Ohio, married in 1965; had #1 son (David) and then graduated from Ohio State in 1966 majoring in geology and hydrogeology. Upon graduation, we moved to Australia. Had #1 daughter (Julianne) in Sydney in 1968. Worked there for a major international oil and minerals company (Conoco Mining) through 1970. Relocated to Denver and Casper, Wyoming for a few years with another mining company. Returned to Columbus to work on EPA projects with one-time professor at OSU. Turned the effort into two textbooks, one published by McGraw-Hill and other by Office of Rural Water, Washington, D.C. In 1973, I was awarded a fellowship in the graduate school at Rice University and moved my research group to Houston to work toward a Ph.D. Received the Ohioana Award in Science for the McGraw-Hill text in 1975. Interrupted graduate work to pay bills by joining a new group within a large consulting company in Houston and converted graduate work to Master's degree. Divorced in 1975 and then married in 1977, acquiring #2 son (Davey). Produced third textbook in 1977, published by the Houston Geological Society. In 1979, had #2 daughter (Jennifer). In 1981, had #3 daughter (Jessica). Served as Director for major consulting engineering company for eight years, traveling in the U.S. and overseas on industrial projects and for the United Nations and UNESCO. Resigned in 1982 to form a consulting company. One project involved developing and operating a gold mine in Nevada. Managed operations until 1988. Served two national environmental engineering firms and Du Pont through 1993. Resigned to go into private practice, consulting in environmental, water supply, and mining projects, including litigation support and expert witness services.
Over the years,
- #1 son (David) graduated from, yes, Lancaster High School in 1983 (Maxine and Clarence (my folks) looked after him during that year), and later from Texas A&M University with B.Sc. majoring in geology/biology, (now an Internet whiz as well), about to find the right woman;
- #1 daughter (Julianne) graduated from Antioch College with B.A. and M.A. in art management (married a Danish guy, lived in Nice, France and taught in the American School in Monaco and after a few years moved back to Santa Barbara, CA, and now teaching at a private school in the San Diego, CA area. Married great guy;
- #2 son (Wesley) graduated from U. of Texas and UTMB medical school, finished an internship in radiology at Johns Hopkins, now in practice in Miami area;
- #2 daughter (Jennifer) graduated from Sarah Lawrence College in New York and taught in the Teach America program in New Jersey and returned to Houston just after 2001 attack and is active in the Houston arts community and is teaching theatre and drama in a Middle School of a western Houston suburb; and
- #3 daughter (Jessica) just graduated from the University of Houston summa cum laude. She made the Dean's List a number of semesters and is planning to go to graduate school to study archeology. She is working for a consulting firm involved in archaeological investigations for industry.
My wife, Mary Margaret, works for Baylor College of Medicine and she is also a Professional Genealogist, see (Here).
For the rest of the story on what I do, see my company website at: I2M Consulting, LLC.. No plans or desire for retirement, yet. If you really want to monitor my family's moments, see: (Here)."
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Larry D. Childrey
"After graduation, I served in the Air Force for 4 years. Barb and I have been married 34 years and have a son and daughter. We have lived in Kansas City, MO and Chicago, 29 years in Columbus, OH and back to Lancaster since 1997. I have been in sales most of my adult life."
Nancy Conrad Evans
"I have been most fortunate in my life, for which I am very grateful. My interest and later career have always been focused on the welfare of children. My first teaching job was in 1963-67; later, I resumed teaching part-time in 1975 after getting my masters at Michigan State University. I then began teaching full-time in upper elementary levels in East Lansing, Michigan in 1979. I loved it. During the last three years, before I retired in 1996, I was an Elementary Principal. I have many fond memories of the children and our learning experiences together. I have a wonderful second husband, David Evans. He's an ordained Episcopal Priest; served in the Michigan legislature for 10 years; and was Michigan Clerk of the House for 10 years. David came into our family when my daughters, Tonya (now 33 yrs.) and Erin (30 yrs.) were young. Tonya is presently a homemaker and at home with her young daughters Emma (27 months) and Claire (10 months). She graduated from U. of South Florida and taught in Florida for 7 years. She also has her real estate license. Erin went to Dennison of Ohio and transferred to U. of Michigan to get her MSW degree. She presently works for the Michigan House of Representatives as a budget analyst for the Family Dependence division. Can you tell, I'm very proud of them all.
A few years ago, David and I decided to venture off to Grand Haven, Michigan (a resort town on Lake Michigan) to open a summer retail store, called "Peace Frogs." Last year we opened a coffee house also, called "Jumpin' Java." We have since sold it to our manager. We are now attempting to decide what next challenging thing might we do. I hope to do more reading; travel more; and devote more time with friends and family and do more volunteer work. It has been great to reunite with my dear high school friends!!"
Karen Shaeefer Delong
Karen Shaffer Delong
January 7, 2009
"Dear Classmates:
I don't know if you all knew but my son experienced a head injury in 2001. Someone broke into his house and beat him nearly to death. He laid for 24 hours before anyone found him, and was then transported by Life Flight to Mt. Carmel for brain surgery. He recovered up to a point, but was left with a seizure disorder.
Then, in 2004, he was crossing the street in front of his house, had a seizure and fell into the side of a moving garbage truck. He died but the doctors resuscitated him. It left him with severe brain damage, he couldn't walk, or care for himself and we had to put him in a nursing home. Afterward, we had two years of hell before we found a good nursing home for him.
The point I want to make is how much our Classmates have helped me through this nightmare. Pat Gilmore was head of Metropolitan Housing and she helped me get through all the red tape and get him a good place to live after the first head injury. Esther Apple (retired from being an administrator at a nursing home) helped me deal with some very bad nursing homes and finally got him into a good one. So many of our Classmates helped with advice and encouragement, sympathy and silly e-mails. I won't name them all for fear that I would miss someone. Just wanted to let the Classmates know that what the website says in the Introduction to the Home page, that our Class is a very special Class, is so true. The Class has been a blessing to me. I hope I can last until the 50th Class Reunion this year so that I have a chance to thank them in person, but in case I don't, let this message express my feelings toward the members of the great Class of 1959.
Karen"
Dick Ellinger
"Lived in Philadelphia, PA, Buffalo, NY, Richmond, VA, Pickerington, OH, Macon, GA and finally back to Columbus, OH since 1977. Been manufacturer's rep since. Started with Anchor Hocking in 1963 for ten years. Now I represent them again. Petey (my wife) teaches 1st grade at Olde Sawmill in Dublin, OH. We have two kids: Richard, Jr., 29, computer type in California. Pam, 26, Lawyer in Phoenix, AZ. Great places to visit."
Darlene Ervin Coon
"Tillie, many thanks for catching up with me here in N.C. It was a joy to go to the class web page and see where many classmates are today. My husband is retired and we spend half our time in Florida now. I have two children, 5 grandchildren, and 2 great grandchildren! After marrying my wonderful husband, I graduated from nursing school, then later got my license as a managing cosmetologist. In 1996, I acquired my ordination as a minister. I have been interim pastor of 3 churches since then, and Associate Pastor of the First Church of God here in Archdale, N.C. since 2001. I'm semi-retired now, since we have a place in Florida during the winter. We are Blessed! Our love to all."
Barbara Funk Alexander
October 7, 2009
"I am speechless! Almost... this is amazing and of course, one of my Bucket List's items. This is the story. My son Joe (a math teacher at Liberty Union) called to asked what I was doing Saturday. No plans yet....turns out I was very sick in the night and still in bed sleeping with cold sweats, headache, etc., at two in the afternoon.
He proceeded to tell me about the most wonderful news, of the unbelievable kind. He had been thinking of the two of us going to the OSU game before I leave here and then heard from Lisa, suggesting the same thing, if it could be worked out. He got on Face Book and within only one hour, had tickets and for not just any seats; we will be close, if not next to the tunnel!!! I watched the ramp entrance on YouTube, two years ago, when living at Joe's. I was crying like a baby, so I am emotionally invested already. Joe is taking me up there early to attend the Skulls practice as well.
That year at Joe's, Pat (who works for McGraw Hill Publishing) took me to the Spring Game, for Mother's Day. He will have to tell you about my actually, jumping, leaping and running from the computer room to the kitchen and back, cheering like some kind of crazed fan. That was made even more special, since he loves Blue!
My heart is full...you have to know this is more than I could ever imagine would happen for me. I am so proud of and grateful to all of you, my kids, and kids-in-law, for making this happen; Joe told me there are 'chip-in's' on the tickets.
My dad is looking down on all this right now. I will feel his presence. He was such a huge OSU fan, attended many games in person and always teared up when the band took the field, most especially when the "I" was dotted. I will be doing the same and sending my love to all of you. I know, if you are watching the game that day, you will be thinking of me, sitting with Joe, loving every minute of this, one of the biggest events of my life.
Go Bucks!!! Are you kidding me?
Love, Mom (Barb)"
May 27, 2009
Hi all:
It has been awhile since I've written; the testing schedule which would have given new information was changed, so I had nothing to report.
The last PET scan, reported last week by my Oncologist, showed no activity of the cancer in the bones. The cancer is still there, just not doing anything, thankfully. She further explained that once the cancer becomes active is when the metastasis will occur to other organs. They have treatment for that when it happens, but eventually, there will be nothing that can be done. She is still very encouraged by the lack of activity at this juncture and is hopeful, as are we, for two to three years.
I am having pain in my right leg, especially in the knee and am having to use my cane once again. There is a catch pain that causes me to stop walking for a few seconds, and when the severity of that calms down, I can be on my way. The right sided pain, which the doctor is certain is the cancer in the ribs continues to be an issue. I have nausea that is controlled with medication.
I am grateful that I only have to take one medication daily and that I have 'as needed' meds, like that for pain, nausea, and vertigo.
I have been able to get back to choir at church; love being back with those friends. I am doing my project of separating all my photos, 'art work' and cards from my children and grandchildren through the years, I have six storage bins, one for each of my children's families, into which I put those photos, etc. The next step will be to make scrapbooks for each family.
The Furmans, friends for years, invite me to spend days and weeks at a time to have a change of pace from the family of seven, that I am blessed to live with; some of you may remember my oldest daughter, Lisa, who is the mom. I have plans in June to visit a week at a time, my two daughters who live in this area.
My daughter, Judy is getting married the end of July. My sister Judy and her family are coming down for that and I will be returning to Ohio with them for an extended visit with the Ohio Crew...my boys there and of course, attending the reunion. I am so excited about seeing all of you; it keeps me going on 'down days.'
Each day brings its own challenges, but, there are more blessings, laughter and wonderful memories than things that tend to bring me down. I am very positive and know that I need contact with friends and family to keep me going. I so appreciate all of you and love hearing from you.
Thanks for posting this.
Love to all of you,
Barbara"
March 27, 2009
"Hi all:
Went to the Oncologist yesterday for my treatment and test results from the MRI of the brain and has hoped for, it was normal, or as the doc said, "There wasn't anything in the brain." I continue to be very grateful for my progress and hope to be able to see you all in August for our 50th; one of my Bucket List items.
The pain that I have with this treatment is severe for three days or so, but, it is bringing me such wonderful results, it is worth it. This IV medication strengthens the bones.
I will be working on one of my Bucket List projects starting today. I have put pictures and art work of grandchildren in two boxes for years, and I will be sorting them according to family and into scrapbooks. After that project, I will make the attempt to write the children's books that I have been encouraged to do for years. They seem silly to me, but my cousin who lives in California, after listening to several on a road trip we took, not only said they could sell, but that he would illustrate them and be my agent. I would be going to California sometime after the project is completed at my end. He bought land after he retired on top of a mountain! The view from there is breathtaking. He has horses, an art studio, just finished directing a play and is happy as a clam. He and I have always been close; our personalities are so similar; we love to stay busy.
My love and appreciation to you all. I continue to hear from you by email, phone calls, cards and letters. Thanks so much.
Love,
Barbara"
March 17, 2009
"I had a brain MRI yesterday and will go to the doctor Thursday next week to see about the results. I'm thinking it might be standard procedure. I recently had a four-week battle coming off a medication I had a reaction to and those symptoms included being confused, sleeping a lot, and not being able to put sentences together. I am actually better, but my doctor is just being cautious, I'm thinking.
Also, I was wondering if I could make a request of asking our high school gang to send birthday cards to my son, Brian. He was sent to Afghanistan five weeks ago and will be celebrating his 40th there. He also is a recent newlywed. He was sent there as a consultant and as an instructor. He tells us he is making great friends among the population there and is slowly learning the language. He said they are warm and welcoming.
I know he will be pleased and I would be so grateful.
Address:
William B. Muck ACAG-KAIA
APO, AE 09354
This is the full address and has to be written just like that.
Thanks to all of you for your continuing prayers and thoughts for me.
More later.
Barbara Alexander"
January 21, 2009
"Dear family and friends:
I have the most wonderful news! The three months of treatment have resulted in what the Radiologist reported as "dramatic results." My Oncologist said, "this is absolutely remarkable, we don't see this often." She showed Lisa, (my Nurse Betty) and I the first Pet scan, done three months ago, and the one I had last week.
The scan is produced on an 8x10 X-ray film, containing five images of the entire spine, legs, neck, pelvis and shoulders; therefore, they are very small. The side view of the vertebrae, for instance on the scan done in October, looked like little black blocks, stacked one on top of the other. The radioactive substance they injected into my vein recognized the cancer activity there, was absorbed and then appeared on the film. The other areas looked 'black' as well.
Last week's scan showed almost nothing; possibly one very small area in the back. Dr. Bondly said the cancer is there but not active, or moving to other areas. There is no activity in any other organs. Our understanding is that I will continue on this treatment until it is no longer affective, then other hormone treatment options will be used. After those are exhausted, we would have radiation and chemotherapy options. The doctor had told us she has patients who have lived 1-3 year after diagnosis, and even ones who were diagnosed at my stage of the disease.
I am so thrilled to be able to let all of you know about this. I know you have been supporting me in many ways, including the most important one, that of prayer. Lisa was sure I was better without the news from the scans, as I am walking without the walker or cane, am up most of the day, doing light housework and am planning to return to choir next week. I'm thinking our 50th reunion may certainly be a possibility for me now.
I will also be able to start some projects. One, going through two very large boxes of pictures and the children's artwork that I have saved through the years. I will be making scrapbooks for each of those six families. My biggest Bucket List hope is to go to California to visit my cousin who is an artist. He, years ago encouraged me to put into writing stories I have made up for grandchildren, with each of them as the characters in the story. He has offered to illustrate them. To be honest, he sees more potential in these stories than I do.
Because the cancer is in the bone, skydiving has been ruled out for me, but it was at the top of my list before The Bucket List became a movie. It is heartwarming and a must see; I had the pleasure of watching it with my son.
Thanks again to all of you for your support; the cards, letters and emails really are touches that keep me encouraged. The only issue I have now, which the doctor said is not cancer, is pain in the kidney area for two weeks. It is fairly severe; I will be seeing a Urologist for that. The bone pain is reduced and most days I am only relying on the pain patches that I wear; happy to take little to no oral medication.
I have been so encouraged when reading those postings on the LHS59 Class Comments page; it always helps to know you are not alone, and even more so, when it has to do with friends we have had for years. I am very grateful, to those of you involved in and contribute to the LHS59 website.
Barbara"
January 7, 2009
"Happy New Year Everyone:
I had a blessed and busy Christmas. Joe and his family came for a few days and of course, we got together with the girls who live here and their families. Dave and Lisa are doing a bit of redecorating and what has been accomplished is beautiful. Today is the first day back to school after vacation.
I will have the routine PET Scan on the 13th and the visit to the Oncologist on the 15th., for those test results and the once a month IV, Zometa, which makes the bones ache severely for 3 or 4 days. That medication can be accredited for making the bones stronger, so it is entirely worth it as I have not used my cane for four weeks. The Pet Scan is every three months. The pain seems to stay on the right side of my back and down into the pelvis on that same side. I take Arimidex once a day to reduce the level of Estrogen'; it reportedly reduces that level, shrinking the tumors and preventing the occurrence of any others. Nausea is an everyday visitor, some days not as bad as others. I feel very encouraged that I am having a level of comfort that enables me to be active and involved in life.
My love and prayers for you Karen. I remember our many conversations about your son and how hard his life was for him and of course for you and your husband. I feel peace for you in this sad time and I hope you can hang onto that as well. You did everything for him that could be possible. I recall your taking on staff so he would have better care where he was staying at that time; finally deciding to transfer him. I know he felt cared for and loved.
Thanks to all of you who keep in touch with me. It means so much and is so encouraging. I will stay in touch.
Love and prayers to all of you,
Barbara Alexander"
December 28, 2008
"Hi Everyone:
My son Joe from Ohio and his three children came for Christmas. We had a great time. I started a Holiday Art Show four years ago with the children drawing their choices of items. Each child gets something for participation, we have first prize in each category and Best in Show. It was fun and added to our very laid back celebration.
I am going for the quarterly PET scan on the 11th of January and then to the doctor, a few days later, for the news about that. I will also have an IV treatment that day. I have been walking without the use of a cane or walker for a month now and feel much stronger. I do pay a heavier price for doing too much. The pain increases to the place I have to spend the day in bed.
The doctor further explained that this treatment will be effective for only a period of time. Other forms of hormone therapies are available and I will be taking advantage of those when the time comes. As each of them becomes ineffective, we will move into the chemo round of choices. Each of these can be effective for quite a while. I am grateful that the new treatment discoveries are available to me, allowing me to have a longer life. My prayer is that the cancer is contained in the bone and that they are shrinking, which is a possibly, according to the Oncologist.
I appreciate all of you and pray for you as I know you are for me.
God bless you,
Barbara"
November 21, 2008
"I have some different information than our last update. My cancer is Stage 4; my understanding of that is that anytime the cancer metastases, they identify it that way. My treatment consists of the oral medication I take daily, Armidex, which suppresses Estrogen and the tumor and the once a month IV treatment of Zometa, which strengthens the bone. For 4 to 7 days after the Zometa, the pain we were told that the pain in the bones would be more severe. They were telling the truth about that. Whew!! I consider it a positive and look at it as something that has to hurt to help.
On the first of December, I will be having an MRI of the brain. I have been having some vague and rather full feeling in my head and some involuntary jerking of my limbs. She is confident that we won't find anything and is doing it to ease my mind.
I return to the doctor a month from now and the month after that will have another PET scan, a routine follow up to see if there is still any activity in the lymph node, in a new place, or none at all.
As I write I don't always feel as though I'm expressing myself well, but it could be the abject fear I'm having on some days, the vague head symptoms I spoke about, or the medication. I would rather communicate with you at some level, rather than none at all, of course..so bear with me.
My bone strength in my legs is increasing and I sometimes forget to grab up the cane when leaving a room. Yesterday I didn't use it at all.
Dr. Bondly explained to me that the suppressing of the Estrogen and the strengthening of the bone is actually stopping the tumor in its tracks. What is there will not go away, however. She told us as well that if this treatment does not or if it becomes ineffectual there are other things they can try. Once that list of options is exhausted will be all we can do. She is treating some women at my stage of disease and with the same metastasis who are living now into their third and fourth years.
Years ago, I decided that if I got cancer, I would not treat it as in my area of work, had seen such sadness and disappointment and ravaging illness. I remember the day you called it "the monster" and I have taken your advice and am punching the darn thing as often as I can. This is just so scary.
Something that keeps me going is hearing from all of you, which I do regularly. God bless all of you for that. Hope you are doing well Phil. This won't hurt your Bridge game will it?
Keep in touch. Go Bucks! Love, Barbara
November 15, 2008
"I'm downstairs long enough to check mail. Could you send the link address for our class. Becky is home from Cleveland Clinic already and her surgery was a success. She returns in December for the surgery on the other kidney. She is a tough cookie.
I don't know if you posted this last email below; please do, if you don't mind.
Thanksgiving this year will be a huge event. My son is leaving for Afghanistan the first of the year as an instructor; he and his new wife and their children will be joining the Alabama crew. Also my sisters from Ohio and their families will be here. I was the center for our family football game last year; I have been assigned to cheerleading, which should be an event in itself. I will be making my annual pinata for the children and we end the day with the guys against the girls drawing on a huge white board for our pictionary competition. The girls have won each year but one, so it has become a grudge match.
Happy Thanksgiving to all of you in the Class of '59. I am so encouraged by all of you and look forward to each correspondence I receive."
November 13, 2008
Subject: short update
Please send this update to the class. I am living at my daughter's, possibly only for the short term. My treatment plan is one of taking Arimidex to reduce the Estrogen level, and getting an IV, not chemo, but something that strengthens the bone, once a month, the next one on the 20th. I have been ill most of the time since I last wrote you, but seem to be getting stronger with rest, eating well, reading some great books and enjoying being with this family that includes five home schooled children.
My daughter, the mom of this crowd, will be sending an update after our next visit to the Oncologist. This form of cancer is described as breast to bone, the bigger medical term escapes me right now. It is the best of what could be going on for me. The last test, a PET scan showed some activity in the lymph nodes under the right arm. The biopsy of that area gave us a long awaited answer. It is a terminal form of cancer, but if one of the varied treatment plans works, my life can be extended. The bones affected include the upper arms and legs, the pelvis, ribs, breast bone, and the spine.
I have times of feeling frightened but for the most part continue to keep my pink boxing gloves on, in an effort to fight the good fight. I am walking with a cane and rarely using a walker; an improvement.
Also, Becky Seesholtz is at Cleveland Clinic, operated on this morning for multiple, embedded kidney stones. She will have this procedure done on the other kidney in December. Does anyone else have any information about Becky?
I want you all to know that my hearing from you in all the forms in which I have, has helped me more than I can tell you. I feel comforted and loved by all of you.....thanks a lot for your care.
God Bless You All,
Barbara Funk Alexander"
Thomas A. Gossel
"Married 37 years; three children; five grandsons. Lived in Ada, OH since 1972, and don't have immediate plans to leave. Professor of Pharmacology / Toxicology at Ohio Northern University, College of Pharmacy, and past Dean of the College. Active in church mission, and pastor for a small Presbyterian Church in the village of Ada, OH."
Larry Henshaw
Accidentally ran into the Class of '59 website and realized that my name is on the "missing in action" list. This is to tell all that I'm alive and kicking.
Here are some of my particulars:
- BA Bus. Admin. Eastern Illinois University
- BS Mathematics Eastern Illinois University
- Retired Air Force Lt. Col (KC135 Pilot)
- MBA Western New England College
- Retired afterwards from Connecticut pharmaceutical company
- Retired from Brevard County School Board in 2005
Carl J. Hickman
"Married Emilie Orr in 1962. Have four children (Greg, Jeff, Kendra and Keri) and seven granddaughters. Employed 30 years by General Mills Inc. and retired in 1996. During those years lived near Chicago (13 years) and Minneapolis (11 years). Moved to near Jackson, MS two and a half years ago."
Roselyn Hildebrandt Schodisch
"We have moved seven times since 1961 and maybe moving in the near future. We have two beautiful grandsons. We remained in one location for 16 years. Our son and his family moved to Fort Wayne about two years ago. My birth family located me and I now have three younger brothers and two younger sisters. It was a pleasant occasion to meet them. Would enjoy returning to Ohio."
Dick & Carol Hoffman
"Dick's retired. I'm still a homemaker. Three children, six grandchildren. They are what we live for."
Gail Horcher Barber
"Paul and I were married between my Junior and Senior year of high school. We have been married now for 41 years. We have two wonderful children, who have blessed us with four wonderful grandchildren. Twelve years ago we built our home here on Cattail Road in Millersport, Ohio. We live in the country and we both still love it. We both feel that The Lord has richly blessed us, and continues too, as we serve him, as we go through life together. Hoping to see you all at the next reunion."
Keith Jones... continues to recover:
October 30, 2009
"Hi All,
Keith was discharged from the hospital on Fri., Oct. 23. Terry took him shopping, he picked up some groceries and then "settled" in his house in McArthur. (109 Rosemont, McArthur, OH 45651) He told Terry that he was planning on coming to Lancaster on Tuesday to attend to a few things and he would call. We did not hear from him, so Terry finally managed to contact him Thursday evening and he said that he had not made the trip up. His reply to "what have you been doing?" was "resting". He still does not have a stove and refrigerator in the house, does not have a TV connected yet and has been "eating out". So, I don't know about the healthy lifestyle going on, but he says he feels OK, is getting stronger and he is taking his bag full of medicines each day. He has upcoming Dr. appointments at the Cincinnati VA Hospital on Nov. 2 and Nov. 13...evaluations on his heart progress mostly I think. (possibly a pacemaker installed at some point to help stabilize the arrhythmic atrial fibrillation problem) The intestinal/colon surgery healing has seemed to go well and there are no concerns about cancer at this point. He's "out of the woods" now, but still has a long road to recovery. Everyone has appreciated the thoughts and prayers for him and our family. Thank you.
Sue and Terry O."
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October 21, 2009
His Sister, Sue, writes:
"Keith had phoned last evening and was all "excited" saying his Dr. had told him that he would probably be discharged from the hospital today (Wednesday). However, he called again around noon today and said that they had told him that he would have to give himself an injection in the abdomen every 12 hours. He told them that he did not think he could do that. So, he didn't know what his status would be now...he'd call later. Terry tried to phone him a couple times after that and he was not answering his phone, so he finally got a direct line to his unit and talked to Keith's nurse. She said that he was definitely not getting out today and that now he was "down" (depressed) and sleeping off and on, so that is why he was probably not answering his phone. She said that she didn't know if his prognosis was coming down to educating him about being able to administer those injections to himself, or if it would have to be a change of medications? The medication is Coumadin and Terry asked if his bowel surgery was the reason that he could not take that in pill form. She said that was part of it, but he was also on 2 types of Coumadin therapy and the pharmacist would have to be the one to make the determination on these things. So, he's back to "wait and see". But, he told Terry on the phone last night that he feels the best he has since the beginning of the summer when all his problems started developing, and he was really looking forward to getting out of there. I'm not sure of how aware he is that there's still a long road of rehabilitation involved here, (and no one to be with him and help him on a consistent basis), but he is at least in a better frame of mind now and getting physically stronger also. Will keep you posted. The prayers have been helping...so keep them coming. Thanks.
- Sue"
Kay Kindler Kastor
"Over the past 49 years, I graduated from Grant Hospital School of Nursing, Columbus, Ohio in 1962; married in 1963; entered Army Nurse Corp as 1st Lt. in 1967; have lived in Texas, Montana, Missouri, Ohio and then Wisconsin from 1976 to present. Two daughters, Sandra (40) and Paige (37). Three grandchildren, Shannon (6) Dylan (5) and Sedona (2) who all live in Bloomington, Illinois....the loves of my life! Divorced in 1997. Recently retired from full time work as Medical Services Coordinator for an HMO. I remain employed there part time as auditor and consultant.
My two sisters have lived in Lancaster all their lives, so I visit there from time to time. Am looking forward to receiving details of the 2009 reunion. It should be a great one with good attendance... our 50th, can you believe it? Looking forward to reconnecting...."
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Sandra Kay Kisor Willison
"I am married and we have four children. Youngest is a junior at Ohio State. I received B.S. degree in Nursing in 1984 from Ohio University and work as a school nurse for Columbus Public Schools in a High School and Middle School. Plan on retirement in Florida soon."
George Lambert
November, 2008
"I have three children, Andy 44. John 42, and Joshua 35. Andy is married to Carol and they don't have any children together, but he is a stepfather and step grandfather. His wife has one daughter Sara who also has a 3 1/2 year old daughter Mattie.
John is married to Nancy and they have three children. Niki 15, Mitchell 11, and Jessica 7. Niki and Mitch are both Honor students. Mitch score 577 out of 619 in math on the 5th grade state test. School is so easy for him that he gets bored with it. Scary. He's also an excellent baseball player. Niki is also an honor student. She loves music, plays the piano and flute. She also plays the bell and chimes at church. Jessica is also a good student, but right now she's just Daddy's little girl.
Joshua lives in San Diego, Ca. He is not married, but I think he is looking for a girl. He's taking Salsa dance lessons.
Andy is a computer administrator for the Lancaster Municipal Courts. John is a superintendent for a company that supervises the building of the big building in Columbus and other cities. He keeps the contractor to follow the time line of the buildings completion. Joshua is a computer networking administrator for Convair a company in San Diego.
Betty and I feel very fortunate to have good children With good careers. We are Blessed."
September, 2008
“I worked in the electrical field for 45 yrs. 40 yrs as an Industrial Electrician and Electronics Tech. I retired shortly before I was 66. And now I just encourage my three sons and three grandchildren. Two of the boys have good jobs in the computer field and the middle son is a supervisor for a building consultant company building the tall buildings. He supervises the contractors and keeps them on the time line for the completion of the building. And I have three wonderful straight A grandchildren also. My life couldn't be better. Life is a wonderful thing when you do your best. I have been married to a wonderful women for 45 yrs. Her maiden name was Betty Love. Without her support I don't think I would feel as good about life as I do. Looking forward to seeing everyone in 2009 at the reunion.”
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Bonnie Mason Broxson
Tillie Bowers McCarty in a phone conversation with Bonnie Mason Broxson reports that:
"Bonnie wanted to say HELLO to everyone even if she doesn't have a computer and let people know that she has been in Florida for 25 years and both she and her husband are now retired.
Bonnie said, 'I was always so strong, but diabetes has led to legal blindness in one eye, and Fibromyalgia is causing me great pain'. Bonnie also said 'I am still lucky and look forward to the 50th Reunion since my husband takes good care of me and we plan to be in Ohio at that time,'
I will look forward to seeing Bonnie and her husband, and hope that she will hear from some of her friends. Tillie."
Sharon Murray Walton
"Retired elementary school teacher; grandmother to five; enjoy genealogy research, e-mail, reading, antiquing, traveling, and spending time with the family."
Nancy Palmer Goodman
"I married Jerald (Butch) Goodman. We have owned and operated Mid-Ohio Drywall, Inc. since 1971. We have 2 sons, 1 daughter, 3 grandsons, and 3 granddaughters. We spend most weekends from March to November on our boat on the Ohio River near Cincinnati and enjoy snow skiing, traveling, reading and doing remodeling projects."
Ronald Prather
"I was in the U.S. Air Force from 1959 to 1963, stationed in France for 3 years. I worked at Anchor Hocking as Electronic Technician until 1986 when I retired to travel. Since then, I've been in Alaska, Costa Rica, Russia, Morocco, Indonesia, Malaysia and Puerto Rico. Other countries to come."
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Jacqueline Rienschield Headley
"I've been married for 36.5 years. I have a son and two daughters married. Five grandchildren that keep me real busy. I love them all."
Sandra Rudolph Arnold
"Ivan (Class of 57) and I have lived in Athens since 1973. He is employed at Kroger's and I work with Ohio Dept. Rehabilitation and Correction in Nelsonville (Hocking Correctional Facility). I supervise the inmate records office - do calculations of time and deal with the Parole Board."
George E. Ruff
"B.S., The Ohio State University, 1963; M.S., Cornell University, 1965; 1st Lt. U.S. Army, 1965-67; Senior Vice President-Investments w/ Prudential Securities, Inc., 1967 to Present. Wife: Dorothy "Cookie" Ruff; four children (three now married) with three grandchildren. Involved on boards and as officer of several Columbus charities and service organizations. Still a tennis player, cyclist, and traveler, both domestic and international."
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Nancy Schulz McLaughlin
December 27, 2008
"My N.Y. resolution is "Stay healthy from now on after my cardiac successes" and "Help as many kids here by teaching them "peaceful" resolution for problems between each other." I work for the County Judge and his wife and I run Teen Court Diversion classes connected to Peace Jam in Arvada, Colorado This is the headquarters for a world-wide Peace Jam organization. With hundreds of kids, we will meet Jody Williams at the Retreat Conference in Denver this year. Jody has been fighting for the end to landmines and cluster bombs which have killed and maimed millions of people in war zones. The U.S. is the main producer for these ridiculous weapons of mass destruction of innocent people. A major movie is being made to come out this year about Jody's life. She will be played by the gorgeous Naomi Watts.
Blessings,
Nancy"
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Allen Sellers
"When my family moved to Lancaster from Jackson, Ohio for my Junior year many classmates made an effort to be friendly and helped make the change easier; I remember all of them with gratitude. I worked as an Electronic Tech, Electrician and Electrical Designer for 45 years and retired from Anchor Hocking in 2007. I qualified for five pensions although a couple are small, especially the one from the U.S. government PBGC agency when Cerberus welshed on their retirement plan.
During the last 25 years I was laid off three times and quit two jobs. Thanks to the excellent teachers at LHS, an AAS degree from Franklin University and my hobby of Amateur Radio I was able to match or exceed my previous wages each time. Two jobs ago, I got tired of being abused as a salaried employee and returned to being a hourly Union Electrician (IBEW and AFGWU).
I married Linda Lama (LHS63) in 1972 and we have two boys; the oldest lives in Lancaster and the youngest in Canton, Ohio. I spent two years in the USAF (one year in Korea) and five years active reserve in the Ohio Air National Guard.
I looked forward to my sixtieth birthday so I could take free classes at OU-L. I did take several classes but subsequent birthdays have not been anticipated as eagerly.
I don't hunt or fish as much as I once did but I am more active in Amateur Radio and do lot of reading; mostly history and science fiction. Occasionally I participate in the events of the very active Central Ohio Orienteering club. I serve as a BSA Merit Badge counselor and volunteered the summer of 2008 for three weeks at Camp Falling Rock, near Newark, where I lost 10 pounds and really enjoyed interacting with scouts and the bright, squared-away young men on the staff."
Phillip M. Valentine
"Retired April, 1999. Sold my corporation."
Barbara Weidner Ike
"The best Christmas is when you already have everything you want before the packages are opened." Isn't that the truth? When our families are with us and we're all healthy and happy, what more could we desire? And it describes so many of us, who have all the 'stuff' we can ever use."
- Barb Ike
Mary Ann Woodgeard
"Two great kids — Beth and Doug. One and nearly one grandkids. I adopted daughter, Cookie. Love life in North Carolina. Still a graphics student. Presently struggling with Adobe Go Live. Mother still in good health and able to live on her own in Lancaster."
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Susan Youst
December 1, 2008
"Hello, fellow 59's,
I can't believe it's been fifty years since high school!
I am retired after forty years as a nurse. I worked in med/surg/, ortho, ER, OR, OB office, and an Internal med office. My favorite was OR, which was about half my nursing career. I am a Sister of Notre Dame de Namur since 1977. I live in Cincinnati in a community of five. We are in Westwood, which, needless to say, is on the west side.
I am currently a full time volunteer for Power Inspires Progress. It is a job training program for hard to employ, inner city people. Many of them are recovering addicts, or felons, some have never worked in their lives. We teach them to handle. prepare, and serve food, by running a pizza parlor and a catering business. They are tutored in math and reading, and are expected to work on their GED if they don't have it. There are also in services about getting along with your co-workers, anger management, etc.
I am still fighting my lifelong battle with weight. Sometimes I do better than others. I have been lucky to travel to Belgium for a month to attend a meeting. Was also able to see a bit of London and Scotland while I was there.
My brother, Roy, lives in Canal Winchester with his family.
Am really looking forward to our reunion and seeing all of you.
Blessings,
Susan Youst"
