1960 REUNION NOTES
George Anderson
To think it was 50 years ago that we started on our adventure. Since the last reunion I retired for a second time from Northrop Grumman/TRW. My wife still works but we do cruises, visit Honolulu, and love Las Vegas. I am coaching 9-and 10-year olds in Pony Baseball. Cannot help loving the game. We also attend the Chargers and Lakers games. That is our main hobby with gardening the yard. Sorry I can not come, but we are off on a cruise.
Joe Banks
I have a new hobby: making canes and walking sticks. Standing by as my wife remodels our house, working continues as a Pediatrician and ADHD consultant, staying in touch with FIJ buddies, playing golf! Priceless.
Diana Everhart Barcket
Since our 45th reunion I retired from substitute teaching which has enabled me to spend even more time with my “local” 6-and 4-year old granddaughters. In the past five years I have had two nice trips and a wonderful family reunion this past summer. Living in the area has its advantages even though getting out of bed at 5:00 am can usually be a huge hassle!
Jon Barker
I have continued to live in delightful retirement with my love of 44 years, Elaine. We enjoy our daughter, Katie B. Abdallah (OWU 1993) and our granddaughter, Ayah (2020?). I deeply enjoy preparing fresh sermons for “gill-in” parish work in The United Methodist parishes. I am involved in chaplaincies for the American Legion, Submarine Vets, Fire Departments and EMS Squads and local Police Departments. I relax by doing research to plan, build and maintain model railroads.
F. James Becher, Jr.
Mead Corporation- Exec-1961-1979 Geneva Corporation-Exec-1979 Present Wife Betty Copeland Becher Daughter-Paige Becher Langston Grandson, Jack, age 14, and Gray, age 8; granddaughter, Catherine, age 12 Daughter-Kristin Becher Frankum Grandsons, Carter, age 6; Davis, age 5; Charlie, age 3
Sarah Haviland Blackmun-Eskow
I’m a doctoral student at the Fielding Graduate University, a private, accredited graduate school with faculty and students all over the world. My dissertation research will be in the field of anthropology of globalization. I’ll do the fieldwork in Ghana, where my husband, Dr. Steve Eskow, and I collaborate with Ghanaian University and a faith-based network to help bring appropriate technology (e.g., solar lamps) and education to villages far from the more Westernized cities. We hope to spend six months in Ghana working on this project; at the same time, I’ll be doing dissertation research with the hope of receiving my Ph.D. in 2011. The web site describing our work in Ghana in here: http://www.pangaeanetwork.org.
*Update taken from 2010 Alumni Today Directory
Carol Anderson Boche
We’re still living outside Santa Margarita, CA. Retirement gives me lots of time to read, knit and, most important, pay attention to our cats. I volunteer for the local library and symphony and we attend lots of concerts and theater. We travel occasionally, most recently to Costa Rica and Egypt.
Jean Talcott Boomershine
I have retired from teaching kindergarten in Trotwood, Ohio. Then I moved to Des Moines, Iowa, where many of my family reside, and was joined by my son Michael and family (who moved from Atlanta to Des Moines). I have taken care of their children who are 6 and 8. Now that the children are in school full-time I have been involved with the Peace Activists of Des Moines. I am also happy to be living close to my son Tom (a Methodist minister) who recently moved to Iowa from California.
Jackson D. Brown
The last OWU reunion I attended was the 25th, in 1985. Over the next 14 years, I continued to work in the advertising and communications business and finally retired from my long- term employer- Leo Burnett Company-in 1999, as an Executive Vice President. Since retirement, I have been splitting my time between Lake Bluff, IL (summer/fall) and Dataw Island, SC (winter/spring). I have been happily married for 46 years (to Mary Ellen Lathers, a DG from Wisconsin), we have two wonderful children who have successful careers in marketing and advertising and three terrific grandchildren. Today, I am continuing to enjoy retirement and staying active. I do some marketing and communications consulting and am serving on three boards having to do with national and local historic preservation issues and one boys/girls club board. My hobbies/interests include sports, fishing, antiques, history and preservation/conservation and ecology projects.
William “Bill” Brown
After graduation I attended Naval OCS, became an officer in the U.S. Navy, and eventually was stationed in Long Beach, CA. I met my future wife in Southern Carolina, and needless to say, I was never going back to Gallipolis, OH.
After the Navy I had a brief stint in the retail clothing business, and in 1965 joined Walker Zanger, then, a small regional store and ceramic company with one location and eight employees. When I retired in December 2008 as V-P Marketing, I left behind a company with 16 locations and 435 employees.
My wife of 45 years, Frances, and I still live in South Carolina. Why go anywhere else? During my working years I traveled extensively around the world with Fran going with me whenever possible. We still enjoy traveling, but our age (we all know we are all in our early 70s, right?) it seems to be more of a hassle.
We are blessed with three great children, Stephen (OWU class of ‘88, Karen class of ‘91 and Christopher who went to college in CA.) Steve has 3 children, Karen has 2, and Chris is not married. My two hobbies of golf and gardening have taken a back seat to the good old back problems. Aah, the “golden years”. My other passion is USC football. Sorry Buckeye fans, but I become addicted to west coast football and USC since I arrived here in early 60s. John A. Burns
Fifty years. A lot of water over the dam. Gone from how difficult medical school would be to trying to figure out how to lower my golf handicap and add 10 yards to my drives. Still working three days a week but gave up doing hospital surgery at age 70. Many hobbies, but master of none; fishing in Canada and Alaska, bird hunting in the U.S. and South America. Golf occupies many afternoons in the summer.
My wife Sue and I remain in reasonably good health. We divide our time between our home in Powell, OH, Hilton Head, SC, and Denver, CO, where our son and daughter live. Daughter Jenni is a pediatrician with three great children. Our son Andy also has three super children and is sales rep for Automatic Data Processing.
It’s been a great ride because of a great education at a great university.
Linda Zehring Butler
Shortly after OWU we transferred to Philadelphia where husband Dan was involved in the financial world while I remained at home with our four children. During the 70s, when money market funds were first “invented”, we started a weekly newsletter, “Butler’s Money Fund Report”, later sold, but currently still being published by an English company under their name IBC. Dan began running Corporation Service Company in Wilmington, DE, incorporating companies through law firms and online for individuals. I started a microwave cooking teaching service and worked as an independent contractor in our nearby three states. My avocations are the stock market, being a serious gardener, and enjoying our 11 grandchildren. Good music is another love and we are lucky to live near the Philadelphia Orchestra. Other interests over the years have included choral singing, being a real estate landlord, travel, and tennis. Cheers to all of my classmates!
Dan Cochran
Having retired (mostly) in 2001 from being a State Farm Ins. agent, my wife Nancy (Lightell)’60 and I reside in the Florida Keys. When not fishing (windy days), Shrine club fundraising for Shriners Hospitals and Kirk of the Keys Financial Chairman keeps me really busy. Also, as a century club realtor, it’s my pleasure to help people find their home in paradise. In summer, we spoil grandkids (8).
Nancy Lightell Cochran
I retired from the Education Profession in 2001. My husband Dan Cochran retired also. We bought a home in Marathon, FL, after visiting there many times throughout the years. Most of the time is spent in Florida and the rest in Ohio. I have been active in the Ladies Shrine in the Florida Keys serving as the President and Fundraising Chairman. The organization has luncheons and style shows to raise money for the Shrine Children’s Hospitals.
I continue to stay active in education by substituting in the Marathon Schools. Participating in helping to build the membership in the Presbyterian Kirk of the Keys has also been rewarding.
During the summer we visit our three children and eight grandchildren in Columbus, Cincinnati, Ohio, and San Jose, California.
Merrill Dean Darlington
I last visited OWU in 1995 for our 35th reunion. I continued to work as a clinical psychologist in outpatient mental health clinics until 2003 when I retired from the County of San Bernardino. My wife Peggy and I have hosted weddings for two of our three daughters and have another one coming up next year. We enjoy traveling and have taken Tauck, Grand Circle, and Elderhostel tours. We also enjoy working-out to stay fit and healthy plus spending time with our two young granddaughters, ages 3 and 6. Since retirement, I have been active in church and the California Society of Mayflower Descendents plus working on some family history. I also have enjoyed classes for seniors through the Osher Program at the University of California at Riverside. Life has been good to us and we feel blessed to have a comfortable retirement and a happy healthy family. I welcome emails at [email protected].
William Darrow
Wow! Fifty years is a long time. Not sure where the years went but I am pretty sure where the extra pounds came from. Since our 25th reunion all three kids have grown up, been married off, and grandchildren. Janet and I sit back and enjoy being the “pushover” grandparents. I retired in 1994 as Sr. VP and worldwide head of medical research and regulatory affairs at Schering-Plough (now part of Merck) and in 2000 as their senior medical advisor. Duty compels me to report that my golf game has only improved slightly since graduation.
Natalie Vernon Davis
I retired from teaching English at Kearsarge Regional High School in 1994. I live in New London, NH, and have been married to Dan Allen for 24 years.
Richard E. Dawson
After graduating, I earned a Ph.D. in Political Science at Northwestern University and taught at Washington University in St. Louis for 22 years. In the mid ‘80s I moved back to Columbus with my family. My wife and I had a small consulting business, doing program planning and evaluation with educational and social programs. I have retired from that work and am currently serving as chaplain at a local Unitarian Universalist Church, mainly doing pastoral work with older seniors. I married Karen in 1965. We have three children and seven grandchildren.
*Update taken from 2010 Alumni Today Directory
Lucinda Shetter Denney
Since the last reunion we’ve added another grandchild, Lena Lucinda Denney, so now we have a total of three wonderful grandchildren. Jon (OWU ’61) and I have been fortunate enough to have traveled widely; most notably to India where we saw the Taj Mahal and were guests for dinner at the American Embassy. We also rode a camel and an elephant in Jaipur. On other trips we fished for king salmon in Alaska and sailed from Athens to the Greek Islands and Istanbul. Recently we took a trip at Danube. (Don’t worry---I will not bring any slides to the reunion). I am a consultant to Executive Arrangement, Inc., a company I co-founded, for its 30th anniversary celebration. I volunteer with The Women Council of The Cleveland Museum Art where I received the “Volunteer of the Year Award”. I am active in the Garden Club of Cleveland and still enjoy playing bridge and golf. I look forward to recognizing all of you at the reunion.
Jerry Dickey
My past four years going through Transcipt newspapers, LeBijou yearbooks, and other materials has been an interesting journey into our time together at Ohio Wesleyan University from our 1956 entrance at Freshman Camps to our June 1960 graduation. And if it were not for each of you, and my appreciation for all your work and contribution to my four years at OWU, I would never have spent the time as President of our 50th Reunion. I have enjoyed the experience.
So what has happened since my days at Ohio Wesleyan? I attended Boston University School of Theology from 1960 – 1964 where I studied theology and religious drama earning my S.T.B.
I spent two separate years studying in Europe (1967-68 and 1971-72) in Denmark (Ollerup Gymnastic College, University of Copenhagen, and International People`s College); Germany (Goethe Instituts in three different towns, and the Sonnenburg Institut) and France (the Alliance Francaise).
In 1983 I was accepted into the doctoral program and spent a year on campus at the Pacific School of Religion which is part of the Graduate Theological Union in Berkeley, California, earning my Doctor of Ministry in May of 1985. My thesis was titled: “The Creative Christian – A Workbook in Lay Ministry.”
I served in two churches in Massachusetts: Cochituate Methodist and Reading Methodist. In Ohio, I served in five churches: Glenwood Methodist in Columbus, Central Methodist in Springfield, Armstrong Chapel in Cincinnati, and First United Methodist in Lancaster. After retiring, I spent a decade of volunteer work in Clifton United Methodist in Cincinnati and worked one summer in Bay View, Michigan.
In December of 2005 I signed a contract to publish my book: THE TWELVE STORIES OF CHRISTMAS by Dr. Jerry Dickey with the Trafford Publishing Company in British Columbia, Canada. The book was copyrighted in 1996. Trafford Publishing is now part of a parent company, Author Solutions, Inc., headquartered in Bloomington, Indiana.
In my book, Christmas stories are shared which I wrote over a forty-year span of time, from 1965 to 2005. If you would be interested in having me sign a copy to you, or to others to whom you wish to give a gift, or so you could donate one to your local library, I`d be honored to do that! Since I get a better return on my investment when I sell books myself, I took out a transient vendor`s license to do so.
You can E-mail me at: [email protected] or [email protected] (in case the first E-mail, my present phone, or my present address ever changes); phone me at (513) 984-4765; or write me at: Dr. Jerry Dickey, 4765 Happiness Way #4, Cincinnati, Ohio, 45236-2752.
Of course, you could also order it through Amazon.com or through my web site: www.trafford.com/05- 3193, or through your local bookstore. Paperback ISBN 1-4120-8227-7 Hard Cover ISBN 1-4122-0220-5
Elizabeth Ann Dixon
Various places for employment – like selling furniture the best.
Barbara Barr Drake
It’s been 10 years since I last visited OWU and about 10 years since I retired. So life consists of the usual many commitments to boards/non profits and community involvement, book clubs, hiking group, quilting, church leadership, many friends, and visiting our three adult children. Ralph and I will celebrate 50 years of marriage next year. Life is good.
John Drury
It’s all in the numbers! I went to school every year for 60 years, earned 3 degrees, taught math in 4 high schools, 1 community college, and 3 universities. I have owned 7 houses, 15 cars, and 4 set of golf clubs. My family includes 3 daughters, an equal number of sons-in-law, 7 grandkids, 3 dogs, 2 cats, and 1 loving wife (50 years).
Ann Adkins Dye
Since attending our 40th reunion and retiring a year later, I’ve taken up Chinese painting, crossword puzzles, Jazzercize, occasional Spanish lessons, and enjoyed regular summer trips to Europe, as well as a couple journeys further afield (Antarctica, Galapagos/Peru). This year we will have the joy of seeing our grandchildren graduate and head for college.
Marcia Pelot Early
I started a small business years ago with two friends. We strive to help our senior clients remain in their homes by “helping with the business of daily living.” We serve as surrogate family members, assisting with transportation to appointments, planning social outings, shopping, errands, and household financial assistance. This work has helped me to finally decide “what I want to be when I grow up!”
Norman Edwards
The last five years have been much like the precious five years. I have been fortunate to have good health and enjoy the practice of family medicine in our small tour. My friend and I are avid Lawrence County High School fans, and of course UK football and basketball fans. Sue and I enjoy our family, traveling some and reading a lot.
Sue Taylor Edwards
Having a teenager in the house again was probably our biggest challenge since our last reunion. Our oldest grandson spent his two years of high school with us and graduated in June 2009. We have been privileged to do some traveling with family and friends to Stockholm, Sweden, Alaska, and the Holy Land. I look forward to hosting a Women’s Bible Study in our home. Our four children and their families, including 10 grandchildren, provide us with many opportunities for making special opportunities. It has been such a joy connecting with classmates for our reunion fund-raising effort!
Marjorie C. Emerson
Married 12 years – 2 sons, born in MS- divorced ’73 in Ventura, CA- taught pregnant minors & directed infant/toddler nursery- then tutored K12 in home/hospital program, have studied art, photography, child development, Mediterranean plants, alternative healing and massage., visit friends in London yearly-have made 4 trips to India to see Sathya Sai Baba- follow strict vegan diet- attend Quaker Worship group- after a.m. yoga and meditation, I walk with Border Collie- hike at private Mediterranean Garden/nature sanctuary- wear glasses now-considering cataract surgery-working hard to hang on to my teeth.
Anita Parrish Emery
I returned to my home town, Daytona Beach, to continue teaching elementary school (mostly 6th grade). I retired in June, 1991, after teaching for thirty years. I was widowed in June, 1992. I continue to live in our home with my beloved pets. I enjoy gardening, walking, music, visiting our fine area museums and spending some time at our family cottage in Balsam, North Carolina, with my brother and sister-in-law Don and Molly Parish (also Ohio Wesleyan graduates).
Patricia Ross French
I’ve been the librarian at the Christian Science Reading Room in Bethesda, MD. I’ve also been reading, writing, researching, going to plays and concerts, and especially laughing at almost everything my grandchildren say to me.
Verrick French
I’ve downsized French & Company, my consulting firm, to its bare essentials: computer, cell phone and two small clients in the business of environmental restoration. That leaves Pat and me plenty of time to entertain two sparkling grandchildren, try to stay in shape at our local gym, take pleasure in Washington’s good theater scene, read widely, and enjoy the diversity of music by the Capitol Hill Chorale, the National Symphony Orchestra, and traditional jazz bands. I also exchange tart political essays with the King’s Contrivance Discussion Group, a crew of seven guys, OWU graduates from 1958 to 1960, who lunch often at restaurant of that name near Fort Meade, Maryland.
Judy Folk Gaffga
We have sold our Michigan cottage and our defiance Ohio home and made the permanent move to Naples, Florida.
Don Gebhart
I have retired from 35 years in private practice of ENT and 10 years working in hospital administration since the last reunion. Presently, I am spending winters in Florida, spending time with family, volunteering and playing golf.
Wilhelmina Good Ginaven
I retired from my position as a district library-media teacher in 2002 but stayed on as a part-time consultant until May 2009. My husband and I travel a lot. I volunteer at my church and our local library. I walk on the beach with my friends every morning enjoying our beautiful San Diego weather. I also spend as much time as I can with my five grandchildren, ages 17-21.
Jean Schaffner Graham
A small group of us from OWU have been getting together annually since our 45th reunion. It has helped bring our friendship and years at OWU alive, once again. My retirement from teaching in 1998 continues to be filled with many opportunities. A part- time job in our local Skaneateles, NY, library includes ordering children’s material. Some of this I use when reading weekly in a childhood center as well as volunteering in a nature center. Helping to launch the Skaneateles Education Foundation has been a challenge and exciting new venture. Each summer Chamber musicians fill our Augusts with outstanding concerts. I coordinate housing for them. Summers are also filled with golf, gardening and family while winter encourages us to travel to a warmer climate for a week or two. Dave (Bates, class of ‘60) and I are fortunate to have good health and a loving family.
Joy Cudd Greene
I worked as the Supervisor of the Technical Library at Amoco Oil Company (now BP British Petroleum). After retiring, winters have been spent as First Mate on a sailboat in the Florida Keys and summers in Illinois. I enjoy visiting my grandchildren in Illinois and California.
Phillip Kirby Gull
AB, Ohio Wesleyan University 1960; M. Div, Perkins School of Theology, SMU, Dallas, Texas; MSW, Our Lady of the Lake University, San Antonio, Texas, 1969.
In 2000 I retired after 43 years as an ordained minister, college professor and professional social worker. As a minister I was appointed to churches in Ohio, Texas, South Dakota and Iowa and served on numerous UMC boards and agencies. As a professor I have taught courses in sociology, social work, philosophy, religion and ethics and pioneered the early development of undergraduate social work education. While on the faculty of the Augustana and Sioux Falls College I was a consultant for the State of South Dakota in working with its Native American population and in the development of a state level licensing protocol for undergraduate social work. I have further experience in child welfare, child guidance, mental health and medical social work.
I have three grown children from my first marriage. My present wife, Rosanne, and I just celebrated our 21st year of marriage. She continues to work as a surgical dental assistant having completed her 35th year in the same dental practice.
In retirement I continue to be very busy. I have published 10 books on my family history, had articles appear in historical journals, and continue to officiate at weddings and funerals. Both my wife and I are involved in our local UMC church.
We enjoy traveling, reading and antiquing. Rosanne loves to garden and our yard is a wonderful cacophony of color and fragrance throughout the summer. Of course visiting our three grandchildren as often as we can is perhaps our greatest pleasure.
James Guthrie
After many years in the publishing sales business, I retired in 2008. Now I continue to read and garden. Karlee and I are regular travelers back and forth to Seattle to see our grandchildren.
John W. Guy
I travel frequently, play golf (weather permitting in Ohio), visit grandchildren in Cleveland (daughter Amy) and Pawley’s HS., SC (son John).
Also, I work part–time (as a Retiree) selling specialty advertising products to friends and business acquaintances. And I spend a good bit of time working for team OWU and other OWU programs and functions.
Lydia Chawner Hadley
Traveling to see families in Arizona, Tennessee, and Colorado. Taking care of children and grandchildren when needed. Traveling out of the U.S.A. Volunteering within Columbus. Learning more about healthy eating, organic foods, medication and exercise…enjoying life.
Nancy Gates Harris
Still working (Kohl’s Distribution Center, material processor, now 11 ½ years), some camping, visiting oldest son and family frequently in Michigan City, IN. One great granddaughter, born October 5, 2007, and expecting a new grandchild in August 2010. Many prayers for youngest son who returned from his 2nd tour of Iraq with Marine Reserves, thankfully, safely and is now in TN where he lives with his family. (Now has been a Marine for 20 years). Attend movies with friends, sew, crafts, and attend St. Andrew’s United Methodist Church.
Sue Harris
Since graduation I have taught secondary English and have been a high school guidance counselor. In 2000 I retired from the Euclid Municipal Schools and the Cleveland Museum of Art.
Judith Barnes Haskins
Five years ago my husband and I bought a condo in Naples, FL, and we very much enjoy spending winter there along with several other couples from our home church who also have places there. We all attend the same church in Naples and have made friends there also. We love to travel. Our latest trip was last summer to western Canada, Banff, Lake Louise, Glacier National Park and the Road to the Sun. Our two children are close to us so we see them often and rejoice in two darling granddaughters (5 and 10 years old) and one grand-dog who is a Jack Russell terrier. My husband Bill had a couple triple bypass surgeries this past August and is going through cardiac rehab at McConnell Health Center. We both love to read and I especially love music which was broadened when I took Music App at OWU. I also enjoy knitting.
*Update taken from 2010 Alumni Today Directory
Richard M. Heaston
Retired in 2004, enjoying our retirement. Home in Estero, FL. Major activity golf.
Margaret Beeson Heinisch
Visits to Canada; Fripp Island, SC; Johannesburg, NYC-trips to Otterbein College with husband Jim (who was a trustee there) until his death in July 09; Elderhostel trip to Belgium for two weeks. French immersion course September 2008.
Virginia Vanmeter Herrick
In 2005 Jim and I ended our nomadic lifestyle of five years and purchased a house in Las Cruces, New Mexico, near our eldest son Jeff and his wife. We continue to spend three months each year living in our motor home while volunteering at Big Bend National Park. The wildlife and beauty surrounding us there have helped us heal from the 2006 loss of our middle son, Kevin.
In Las Cruces I have given much time to Casa de Peregrinos, the local food pantry, by volunteering, serving as a Board member, and involving our local congregation in this outreach. Believing that “the answer comes up every morning,” we added solar electric to our home two years ago and recently added solar heating and hot water. Following our 50th reunion we will head to Syracuse, New York, to visit our youngest son Mike and his wife. Then will continue further east to visit more family members. William Hickok
After attending OWU I taught Social Studies and Physical Education here in Ohio in the Newark and Worthington City Schools. My coaching experience included football, girls basketball and softball in the Worthington and Westerville School Systems. I played fast pitch softball in the 60s and 70s and still play in the Senior Leagues and I am still involved in coaching. My wife Nancy Howard OWU ’62 and I live in Westerville.
Ellen Ratkovich Hill
I retired after 20 years as an Episcopal priest the last 101/2 as Rector of St. Michael and All Angels, Studio City, which is part of Los Angeles. Since then I’ve been traveling with my husband Lamar and enjoying our four grandsons. Unfortunately, I cannot attend the Reunion as we will be in Paris visiting friends.
Jon R. Hillegas
Since my last attended reunion in 2000 I have been winding down my general and vascular surgery practice. My wife Marge and I have been motor-home traveling more which is a wonderful way to really see Alaska!
Getting out of Phoenix in the summer is a priority, and we have built Habitat for Humanity homes across Canada in Halifax, Ottawa, and Windsor on summer trips. We’ve also built in Alabama, Louisiana, and Vera Cruz, Mexico, with the Jimmy Carter Work Projects for Habitat, and the Fuller Center for Housing.
In Sept/October 2007, Marge and I spent five weeks at the CURE Kabul, Afghanistan Hospital, teaching surgery to Afghan MD residents, and Marge trained indigent Afghan women to become “nurse aides” in this general hospital. Her program continues. This trip was a life-changing experience for us.
Presently I’m still involved in doing vascular ultrasound studies at the hospitals and clinic since I just “can’t quit” yet. Some recent health problems have limited our traveling, but we’re getting better and looking forward to seeing all at this 50th reunion.
Linda Cole Hillegas
Retired from teaching completely. Spend time with friends and family. Lots of world travel and community volunteering. Enjoy my home and pets!
Recently rebuilt and updated after being destroyed by fire.
Richard Hodge
I retired as a judge of the Alameda County Superior Court in 2001 after 20 years of service. “Retirement” is not within my conceptual vocabulary. For the past 10 years, I have served within the “private judiciary” as an arbitrator and mediator. Someday I will be found face down in brief.
Robert Holm
After three years in the Air Force following graduation, I returned to Ohio Wesleyan where I had a very fulfilling 40-year career in University Relations, including serving as a Director of Annual Giving, Director of Development and Vice President for University Relations. Since retiring in 2003, I have remained involved as a volunteer for several organizations in Delaware and Columbus. My wife, Mary Steele Holm ‘60, and I have enjoyed traveling more since we retired, particularly several cruises and two extended trips to Norway and Sweden, including visits with many relatives there. Most of all, we enjoy time with our three children, Bob, Anne and David, their spouses, and five granddaughters and one grandson, including lots of time at our summer cottage on Lake Erie, at Van Buren Point, New York.
Mary Steele Holm
I am grateful for the many positive experiences of life for which Ohio Wesleyan prepared me, including the opportunity to serve as a Pastor in three exciting settings: Worthington United Methodist Church, Summit UMC (near the Ohio State campus), and as a Chaplain at Wesley Glen Retirement Center. Bob and I are now greatly enjoying our retirement years, with emphasis on travel and our family since he completed his 40-year career at Ohio Wesleyan in University Relations. We are especially proud that all three of our children are OWU graduates, with diverse majors in Pre-Med/Zoology, Broadcast Journalism, and Fine Arts. Now our granddaughter, Ashley Brown, is completing her freshman year, also in Fine Arts, beginning the fourth OWU generation for our family since my mother was also a Wesleyan grad class of 1929! Life has been very good to us! Raymond Hopkins
In the last five years I had two leaves and then early retirement. I miss some of the activity during my 40 years as a professor of politics at Swarthmore. Before retirement there was time and money for family, home, teaching, writing, traveling, consulting, and starting a community service organization. Since retiring some of these activities continue, less intensely. I did a three-year stint as ruling elder in our Presbyterian church, joined Rotary and raised money for a water project (now installed after three trips) in a rural Belizean village, and joined a men’s discussion group. Carol and I lived in Cape Town a portion of last year (while I taught at UCT). We also traveled to attend the weddings of our two children: Kathryn in Sta. Cruz Mountain (near Los Gatos) and Mark in the foothills of the Italian Alps (near Pinerolo). Each marriage has led to one new grandson. This January we took care of eldest (age two) while his parents were in Europe. Our children’s families have visited us often and invited us to their homes in Redwood City and Gettysburg. We hosted them together, along with cousins and mothers-in-law last summer at our Maine home that overlooks the ocean. With an addition to the original log cabin, a project I designed and oversaw building the past years, there is space for the entire family together for sailing, tennis and good cuisine. These family moments have been joyous times and we expect to repeat them in the summer 2010. Aside from the inevitable physical “stuff” of aging and the shock of owning only 201Ks, life is marvelous. In the last five years I have worked for the State Department in Kyrgyztan, gave papers (some published now) at conferences in Turkey, Slovenia, South Africa, Canada, and several in the U.S. We have traveled on many short trips to New York, Washington, Canada, and the SF area—sometimes doing what academics call “working”. As a student, I never appreciated that faculty might be getting paid for work so enjoyable that they would do it free (except the grading).
Marjorie Keller Hottel
Fifty years of marriage and fifty year OWU reunion make for a great combination. Dick (’58) and I were married February 1960, he left for Germany in May. Graduation was in May and I joined him in June. The three years in Germany were travel-filled and exciting. Our twins were born there and our third son shortly after in the family mechanical contracting business. Our daughter was adopted a few years later. Our lives have been full with church and community outreaches. I co-founded a church co-operative nursery school and was involved with the usual kids’ school and sport activities. In 2009 I retired from the administrative job held for 30 years at the Georgetown Family Center, presently the Bowen Center. Dick is taking small steps toward retirement. The Chesapeake Bay offers so much, our shared interests are music, gardening, travel, history and good friends.
Sharon Rose Howard
Since the last reunion I attended in 1995, I moved from Vermont to North Carolina to be near my son John who is a Navy doctor since he and his family were stationed at Camp Lejeune. I went back to teaching until retiring in June 2009. I am now living in Oriental, NC, in a beautiful log house built with my daughter Tara and her husband. We all got to travel to Sicily when John and family were sent there. I went by myself to Italy in 2007 to visit Rome, Venice, and the Florence area. I also regularly visit friends from my years in Hawaii who live in Nashville, TN, and New Orleans, as well as son John now in Pensacola. I also drive north to see friends and relatives in New England. One week before the reunion, I returned from Hawaii where I stayed with my nephew and visited old friends and fondly remembered places.
David M. Hume
Still working (most of the time) enjoying our beautiful Lake Michigan cottage with family and friends and watching our wonderful seven grandchildren nurture and grow.
Marilyn Lais Irwin
Enjoying every day of retirement.
Bev Terry Ison
Since retiring from teaching in 1997, I have moved to Sun Lakes, Arizona (outskirts of Phoenix) and have become involved in the retirement community’s many activities: Water aerobics, Rock and Gem Club, Gardening Club, and the Chandler College from which I have taken 14 different classes this fall. The Lutheran Church has become more important to me by my helping to Braille the Bible and game nights with weekly Bible study groups.
Marilyn Fouse Jennings
After graduation I worked in fundraising until 1962. I married Richard Jennings in June 1961 and we moved to Sacramento, CA. Two of my children, Douglas and Karen, were born there and Susan was born in 1968 after we moved to Columbus where Richard eventually became the Sr. VP of Lazarus. I kept busy volunteering at school, for the Blaine and Girl Scout Troops of my daughters, joining Buckeye Boys Ranch Service Band, Childhood League and Children’s Hospital. I returned to work in 1981, first for Riverside Methodist Hospital, then the Kappa Kappa Gamma, both as a fundraiser in their development departments. I retired in 2000 and enjoy my eight grandchildren, gardening, reading, playing golf and bridge. Lucky me to escape Ohio’s winter in lovely Naples, Florida. I love to travel and look forward to a trip to Alaska this summer.
Anne Carpenter Johnson
During the last five years I have been living a happily retired life in Middleton, WI, a city close to Madison. I moved here in 2004 when I retired from teaching. My daughter is a twenty-year Madison resident, and she, of course, is the reason I abandoned Elyria, Ohio, and moved north. I don’t mind the snow and the sunshine often.
Barbara Martin Kamman
Retired from Chico State University -12/31/02- and Butte Community College -12/31/02- but taught @ Butte Community College until 5/31/04
Relishing grand-parenting Lidia 7, Bella 4, Johnny 4 and ½
Volunteer: Chico Christian Middle School, Patrick Historical Ranch, singing in a community choir, playing a bell choir
Lunching with friends
Loving life with handsome Arnie of 50 years, parenting adult children and thanking God for the blessings of life.
Michael E. Katz
After living behind the counters of my four drug stores in NYC and Brooklyn for about 30 years, I went to work for a not-for-profit whose mission it was to keep manufacturing in NYC, a much more interesting line of work than drug stores. For budgetary reasons after 9/11 our organization was closed down by the Governor and I retired to Ft. Lauderdale. I am an active member of the investment committee of a multi-employer pension fund with assets of eight billion dollars, (ten billion prior to the debacle) and also a trustee of a benefit fund with 400,000 beneficiaries. I fly to NYC for meetings once a month. I have been married for 45 years-and to the same woman! The most engrossing and interesting teachers I had at OWU were Dr. Bill Heald, Ruth Davies, Ben Spence (Dr. Ben), Hubert Bonner, and Lloyd Easton. I maintained correspondence with Heald and Spencer until their deaths. My letters to the editor have been published by the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, and the London Review of Books. Several of my classmates at OWU have become lifelong friends. September 2009.
*Update taken from 2010 Alumni Today Directory
Ann Votaw Kauffman
After teaching in Ohio, Colorado, Iowa, and South Carolina, I’ve retired for the job I was meant for. I continue to tutor at my last school. Jim and I spend our time between Pittsburgh (2 grandchildren) and St. Joseph, MI (4 grandchildren). Carol Kraus Kepner
I graduated from OWU with a major in Religion. Twenty years later I got my master’s degree in Education from The University of Southern California.
September 1960 I married Harry Kepner ’59 and became an Air Force wife. We’ll celebrate our 50th this year! We have two married daughters and five grandchildren. Right now we all live in Texas but from 1960-1980 our family moved 10 times! 1964-65 Harry was in Viet Nam and I stayed in Ohio with my parents waiting for the birth of our daughter, Linda. Harry returned in1965 and we headed to Texas A&M, then to the USAF Academy for four years, where our daughter Katy was born, then back to Texas for six and to Germany for three. When we returned to the States, Harry retired. We headed directly for Dallas where he worked for EDS for 16 years. We loved being an AF family and the travel it afforded us. We have visited all 50 states and 40 countries. Our last trip was India! As one who had rarely traveled, I never dreamed I would ever have these opportunities and I am grateful.
As we moved, I worked in Christian Education in four locations. Since settling in Plano (1980), I’ve established/directed the Senior Citizens Center, worked as a career counselor, worked for the Chamber of Commerce, volunteered as a host for Plano Television Network and been a member of Toastmasters International. I have worked as a public speaker and I’m now writing family memoirs and other stories. For the last 10 years I’ve been a Pastoral Care Volunteer at our local Presbyterian Hospital…my favorite job of all.
I treasure my liberal arts education from OWU and am grateful to my professors who taught me about all the wonderful things going on in our world past, present and future!
Charlotte Sivon Kieffer
I am working in the family business, enjoying the grandchildren and traveling.
Gloria Linsay Kilfayle
I retired from teaching fifth grade, however, I still teach GED classes. Now I play with my grandchildren, travel, read, and knit. Now my husband Cliff and I are planning our fiftieth wedding anniversary by taking our children and grandchildren on a fabulous trip.
Donald L. Kline
Pastor VMC 1964-1985 V. Pres Fellowship Companies for Christ 1985-2000 V. Pres Kings Medical Group Ministry 2001-2009
Kenneth Lauterer
Relegated to watching sports as opposed to playing. Spend time between our home in the North Carolina Blue Ridge and Gainesville, FL watching the Gator championships pile up.
Charlene Steinmetz LaVanway (Char)
Dear Classmates,
According to instructions, since I have not been to a reunion, we are supposed to go back 50 years! I will try my best.
I transferred after my second year at OWU and received my B.S. from the Ohio State University. My husband Jim and I met at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. He was in his fourth year of medical school and I was finishing my Masters in Psychology.
We have made our home in Colorado Springs, CO, which we truly enjoy. Jim and I have two children, one granddaughter and one on the way. Yeah! We started late ourselves.
I was a stay-at-home Mom and enjoyed volunteering at the church and other organizations. Jim is a general and vascular surgeon - now semi-retired. We enjoyed skiing but now have changed that sport to golf. Our daughter Kristi graduated from University of Colorado at Boulder and received her master’s degree from American University, Washington, DC. Our son Andrew graduated from Gettysburg College and received his master’s from Georgetown.
If you are ever visiting Colorado Springs, please call and we will show you around.
Joy and blessings in the years ahead.
Carolyn Whipps Leick
Working hard at seventy-two, squeezing leisure activities between fat but stimulating workloads, sometimes craving a break, other times relishing the excitement and, most of all, the camaraderie…I’d never predicted this, and I experience it with wonder.
As Director of Christian Education at Trinity United Methodist Church in Columbus (Upper Arlington/Grandview/Marble Cliff), my work spans from birth through end of life. “Confronting the Controversies” is the title of an adult Sunday school class we have just finished. It’s one of five-to-seven classes for adults that we provide every Sunday morning on respect and caring in discussions on global warming, effects of advertising, euthanasia, homosexuality, religion and mental health.
Working with the kids, supporting inter-generational programs, blending the arts with the scriptures, coaching them as they participate in services by reading the scriptures, leading prayer with their own prayers, singing, and even providing a sermon is an enormous honor. The world moves forward even as we sometimes feel as if that is not happening. It’s a joy to remain in, and affect to a small degree, the currents of that forward movement.
My adult children, still studying at University of Maine for their unknown features, live in my house there, providing for me a place of respite and beauty to return to often. I continue to sing and am preparing for a recital of Schumann songs for Lancaster (Ohio) Music Festival this summer. At present, I look forward most of all to seeing cherished friends in Delaware in May, with gratitude to all who have worked to provide for us this event.
Sally Conner Lincoln
I am enjoying retirement after being an art teacher for many years. I continue to enjoy tennis and golf, travel, art projects, reading and two grandchildren. My husband and I have lived in East Aurora, NY, for 35 years after moving around a lot and find it an ideal home base.
Roger Lockwood
Operating and building Taco Bell restaurants in Southeastern MA and throughout RI; board service league school for autistic children; DANA-Farber Cancer Institute; First Congressional Church, Norwood. Enjoying life with bride Sheila of five-year marriage, summers and sailing on Cape Cod; traveling; visiting OWU friends everywhere; enjoying eight grandchildren.
Julie Kuhn Lodewick
I have lived in Dallas, Texas, for 48 years. We have two children and four grandchildren- all live in Dallas.
My “golden” (or so they say and how did they get here so fast!!) years have been occupied with the enjoyment of our grandchildren.
Jane Wiegel Lohnes
With exception of one year in River Falls, WI, and one year in Ankara, Turkey, I have lived the major part of my life in Ames, IA. This sleepy little town is the home of Iowa State University which dominates the community and provides marvelous learning and entertainment opportunities. It is a “cultural oasis” in the heart of Iowa. I have developed a love for the land and I am currently finding prairie restoration very interesting. For ten years I owned and operated a catering service. And then I was employed for 20 years by the ISU College of Agriculture Student Services Office, a rewarding job which involved constant interaction with students. I have been retired for the past ten years; I have traveled extensively and I participate in Classes for Seniors plus all of the usual volunteer activities retirees enjoy. I have two children and one grandson who brings me joy. In retrospect, I realize I did not lead my life-my life lead me!
John Charles Macilwaine
After 40 years of association with Battelle & Battelle, CPAs, (28 as a Partner) I retired in 200. The firm, founded in 1913 (the year federal income tax went into law), is probably the oldest established firm in Ohio. The Battelle brothers were both graduates of Ohio Wesleyan. My wife and I established a ten-year plan for retirement that included travel to wonderful places (Australia, Africa, and many others). We are near completion of the first ten-year plan. We have three children located in California, Illinois, and Maryland. Two are graduates of the University of Michigan and one was a graduate of Northwestern. We have nine wonderful grandchildren, seven beautiful girls and two boys (the descriptions are exactly accurate as for all grandparents). My wife (Paula Sanders Macilwaine ’62) and I dabble playing golf when we are not traveling. I have yet to find a ball that isn’t defective. The ones I have been using seem to either curve to the left off the tee, or bend to the right. I’ll keep trying.
*Update taken from 2010 Alumni Today Directory
Perry R. Mahaffy Jr.
We are conducting a Mini-economic development, evangelical outreach to Northern Mexico’s Eastern Sierra Madre Mountains to prepare villages to be economically self- sufficient building ponds for raising fish, repairing cracked windshields, raising high quality pigs, goats, and rabbits for market. We take physicians, dentists, nurse practitioners, and construction teams into the mountain villages. Also, we have a health team outreach in the Northern Regions of Panama and provide medical care and dental services to the Panama/Costa Rico Border for indigenous villages and at coffee plantation. We have done similar projects to Russia and Honduras rural areas.
*Update taken from 2010 Alumni Today Directory
Gail Rogers Makowsky
I lived and taught in Connecticut (44 years) and 30 (teaching). I have two wonderful daughters: Jennifer and Lynn. I moved to New Mexico in 2004, and I love it here.
Joan Dillon Mays
I have had two new grandsons and one more granddaughter born from 2005 to now. I have a total of thirteen grandchildren, so far. I also substitute frequently in the Carmel Clay Elementary schools. I walk regularly all year long. I am very involved with neighborhood bible studies. I would like to go on a missionary trip or do more volunteer work to help others. My husband and I look forward to being able to travel more.
Judith McCombs
I attended OWU 1956-58; University Chicago, BA and MA 1960-61. I’m a poet and scholar, taught at Wayne State University; founded Moving out, a 1971-96 feminist literary arts journal; became full Professor at Detroit’s BFA College of Art. I teach now at Bethesda, MD, Writer’s Center, edit for Word Works, and arrange the Kensington Row Bookshop Poetry Series. Married Ernst Benjamin (OWU 1958); we have two thriving kids, Cassandra and Daniel, and two wonderful grandkids. My poems appear in Calyx, Nimrod (Neruda Award ), Poetry, Poetry Northwest, Potomac Review, (Poetry Prize), Prairie Schooner, Prism, Sisters of the Earth (Vintage); on-line in Beltway, and other Selves (Glass Bell, Detroit, MI); Against Nature: Wilderness Poems (Dustbooks, Paradise, CA), and The Habit of Fire: Poems Selected and New (Word Work, Washington, D.C.). Many readings. Experimental word/art in two one-artist shows. Scholarly work in Canadian Literature, Women’s Studies, MLA’s Teaching Margaret Atwood; colleagues, students, and peer workshops; Woodrow Wilson, NEH and Canadian Embassy Senior Fellowships, and MI and MD State Arts Grants.
Evelyn Sibernagel McCord
When I retired from OSU, I had no idea what I wanted to do, but since Doug was golfing all the time and I wasn’t, I entered the world of the Volunteer. I started out with the Columbus Literary Council for about 2 ½ years and am now a Volunteer at Riverside Methodist Hospital. I worked about 6 years on the oncology floor and am now Volunteer Patient Advocated in the Emergency Department.
I’m trying to get five generations of photos scanned and put in some order for our children and write the stories of our history. I never thought I would be interested in genealogy, but it is very seductive and I became seduced!
Doug and I will celebrate our 50th wedding anniversary, this spring. Our eldest grandchild, Adam, will turn 18 in April (how did that happen?) and graduate from high school in May. Our “granddaughter-by-marriage”, Hannah, will be 13 in June. Our granddaughter, Becca, will be 5 in May.
Doug is still golfing and is a USGA Golf Official. I’m in a book club, a luncheon group, and get together with some of my high school buddies when we can. I can’t to see some of my OWU friends in May!
Robert McCrie
Since my last reunion (1995) the time has been full and gratifying. Our daughters married and we now have four grandchildren (all under four) plus a wonderful step-grandson. Professionally, I continue to teach, research, write, and consultant. Intellectually, my most important endeavor is to complete a book on prison reform written for the public.
Edward W. Metz
I recently sold my building supply business and am enjoying retirement. A little bit of traveling, a little bit of grandchildren, reading, gardening etc.
Judith Ransone Michaelsen
In 1974 we moved to Paris, France where we lived for 7 ½ years with our four children and two dogs while my husband Ralph (UCLA 1953) worked for IBM. We returned home to New City, New York, for four years and then moved to Tokyo, Japan for three years. In 1989, Ralph retired and we settled in Annapolis, MD. We have been here since. We have been fortunate to travel a great deal and still enjoy traveling to Europe. We also enjoy boating on the Chesapeake Bay on our 38-foot Hatteras which we have taken to Florida two times. Our children are scattered between California, Mississippi, and New York. They have provided us with six grandchildren ages 19 to 3 years. We have so far enjoyed relatively good health. We enjoy being involved with the Annapolis Sail and Power Squadron, our computers, digital photography and gourmet cooking. Annapolis is a great place to retire too. Life is busy. Life is good!
Robert I. Millard
Diane (Dutch ’59) and I have enjoyed our extended family and friends with good health and memorable experiences. I have been retired from a private practice in oral surgery for 18 years, and we will be celebrating our 50th wedding anniversary this June. We presently live in Escouelido, CA. We have been blessed by having our son and two daughters, six grandchildren, living in CA so that we attend their activities. I have enjoyed playing golf at our club, church activities, travel, and walking our golden retriever, “Bear”. Sue Thornburgh Morris
After living in many exciting cities for 25 years (Boston, Rochester, New York, Wilton, CT, Dallas, Atlanta, Northport and back to CT again) my husband’s company finally transferred our family to Jacksonville, Florida, in 1989. Nick and I built on the St. Johns River in St. Augustine where we enjoy the many historical and cultural events in “Nations Oldest City”.
Since retirement in 2000, I no longer teach but keep plenty busy with grandchildren, volunteering, church activities, boating, Jacksonville Symphony and cheering for our Jacksonville at all home games.
We travel as much as we can with recent trips through Europe, England, Scotland and Ireland (to discover our heritage), Western U.S.A., New England and many visits to son Jim and family (two grandchildren) in Cincinnati. Daughter Nikki’s family lives nearby with two more grandchildren which provide us with many hours of babysitting opportunities.
Overall, we continue to love the lifestyle and leisure time that retirement brings to us!
Nancy Belt Muldoon
Since 1985 (my first reunion) our four children have graduated from the University of Kentucky and presented Sam and me with ten grandchildren. What a joy!
Sam retired about 15 years ago from practicing transportation law and now we spend our winters in Naples, Florida.
We still own College Traditions - a store specializing in OSU memorabilia. The store is on campus and has been a huge plus in our lives.
My family and I dedicated the Belt Fitness Center in 2000 in memory of our father Arthur A Belt ’34. Now the Beltway which will unite the academic and athletic campus is in progress.
Best of luck to the Class of 1960.
John Mumma
My wife and I moved to San Antonio in 1971- me to establish my private practice in Pediatric Ophthalmology, as well as resident teaching at our University, and Judy to resume her career as theatrical director-choreographer. I became a “Texan” immediately, but it took around ten years for me to transfer my love of my childhood Ohio sport’s teams over to our Texas teams. However, in 1974 we both joined the bandwagon for San Antonio’s newly acquired pro-basketball Spurs (four NBA champions to date) and we remain among their most fervent fans. We both had very successful, satisfying and gratifying careers in our chosen fields. Except for continued University teaching, I retired in 2007. We established an online antique business - “Time Dances By”- in 2000, which keeps us as busy as we care to be in our retirement - not to mention covering trips, computers and even a little profit. We have been fortunate to have traveled extensively, but now mainly return to. Our favorite - New York, New Orleans, Santa Fe and Sedona. I’ll always be grateful to OWU - not only for the great experience - but also for preparing me for what life has had to offer.
Nancy Tamlyn Nagel
Raising a family, teaching, volunteering, enjoying ten grandchildren, relaxing and retiring with my OWU sweetheart - Jack Nagel ’58.
Rev. Dr. William Dennis Nelson
I retired from the United Methodist Church in June 2004, following seven years with the Englewood UMC in Florida and serving as a British Methodist parish in northeastern England the summer of 2003. Previously, I have served parishes in Marion, Lima, and Toledo, Ohio and in Maryland. Re-located to South Carolina with my wife, Elizabeth Minners-Nelson, who is service director for St. Elizabeth’s Place, a residential facility for seniors in Pawley’s Island. We are active in an Episcopalian Church there. I am a peace activist with the Quakers here.
Max Neufeldt
I have never gone to a reunion. In recent years our married daughter has given us a grandchild. We enjoy good health and find living near the ocean in our self-made house for 40 years most pleasant. Judith Mahoney Nock
I married Dennis Nock ’58 and began middle school teaching two weeks later. As the first of our four kids arrived in 1963, I retired and became a full-mom, then worked for twelve years in the business office of a large church in Boulder, CO. For the last 30 years our primary residence has been near Boulder, but from October through April we also spend as much time as possible in Tucson, AZ.
My passion for volunteering in the community was developed in large part by my years at OWU. We moved thirteen times in the first 20 years after graduation and several times in Colorado; volunteering has been far more a life saver for me than for the recipients. I am or have been involved in Presbyterian churches, public schools, all kinds of sports (in support of the kids, not as participants!) I’ve also served on several hospital boards and currently am a trustee of the Boulder Community Hospital Foundation and board member of Special Transit, a non-profit providing transportation for those with mobility needs.
Sandra Kershaw Nunnally
The years since graduation have seen both struggles and joys. I have raised two wonderful children who, as teenagers helped me through seminary. They encouraged me to go for the lifelong dream of visiting China, Japan, Okinawa, The Philippines, Spain, Scotland, and Italy, added to the list of countries visited. The last three, thanks to my new retired Navy Chief daughter, Mari (Sal). Son, Jonathan, too, has “done me proud.” I celebrated my 65th birthday by marrying a man, James (Jim) Nunnally, who loves to cook, clean, make things, and sew. As a life time bowler, he has encouraged me to love the game too. My average is 130, but it is good fun, good exercise, and good socialization. As Administrative Assistant for the Southern Association, I help the Church and Ministry Committee and the Executive Committee keep track of 31 churches and over 100 retired and active United Church of Christ Pastors in southern Orange and San Diego Counties. An avocation is design and digitizing machine embroidery for gifts and fundraisers.
*Update taken from 2010 Alumni Today Directory
Robert William Olson
We live in Arizona seven months and Oregon five months. My two children live in Arizona. I teach college courses online and play golf, hike, and bike with my wife. We have recently traveled to Uganda. OWU was a great place to attend college. I appreciate the quality of education and the great staff and student relations attained during and after graduation.
*Update taken from 2010 Alumni Today Directory
Walter A. Parker
Sorry I will miss the reunion. That weekend I will be in Moscow in transit to Irkustk in Siberia.
Married Jeanne (OSU, 61, Horticulture) a couple of years after graduation. We met in New York City where I was with the accounting firm Price Waterhouse and she was on the instruction staff of the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. We moved to Connecticut where we still live. We have two sons and two granddaughters.
Entered the education profession and retired 14 years ago after 30 years at Central Connecticut State University as a professor of accounting and School of Business administrator. I was also involved in international programs and continue to teach in Central and Eastern Europe. I am in Poland every year for about a month at the University of Technology in Wroclaw and usually the former Soviet Union a month a year where I have taught in Russia, Georgia and Ukraine.
Jeanne and I enjoy traveling and have had adventures in Asia, Australia, all corners of Europe and most of the 50 states.
David James Pierson
I’m writing the “old-fashioned way” as our computer has been down for a few weeks here in Ajijic, Mexico where I am enjoying a semi-retirement.
The class of ‘60 is my graduating class, but it was originally ’59, so please give my friend, Evan Corns, my best.
There are two people who I am not sure that OWU has honored for their achievements over the years: One - Tates Locke ’59 coach of West Point, Clemson, Jacksonville, The Buffalo Braves in the NBA, at Indiana and Indiana State, where he won conference “Coach of the Year”.
Two – Trish Dressed whose “movie name” is Trish Van Devere. Trish starred in many movies including Island in the Stream with her late husband, George C. Scott. Trish was in the class of ’63, but I am not sure if she completed her studies at OWU though she was outstanding in theatre production.
As for me, I was a lousy student. However, despite not playing any varsity sport, I went on to a fine high school coaching career in Hawaii and New York and eventually became the GM/VP of the Hawaii Islanders, the San Diego Padres AAA team in the Pacific Coast League. I was also OWU’s first Peace Corps volunteer following my US Army active duty in 1961. I have worked in Iran, Saudi Arabia and the Philippines, managed Maui Tropical Plantation and the Kona Reaf Hotel, all spliced into sixteen years of teaching and school administration. About thirty years ago I started doing auctioneering and will be traveling to the “Mesquite Madness” auction for the 7th time. It is a benefit for abused kids sponsored by the Exchange Club. I founded the auction in 2002 and it has been a very successful fundraiser. It will be at the Casablanca Resort in Mesquite on 13 March. So, that’s my update for the class of ’60. I’m sure I’m the only PE major to rise to GM/VP in professional baseball, whose “W” came from being a cheerleader!
I’m proud to be an OWU alumni and so pleased to read of the many community and international projects that you are leading.
I wish I could send a larger check, but I have my obligations. Lastly, please help my brothers to live up to their ideals as well as having fun!
John Poulos
Retires to Columbus, Ohio, to be with my three sons and seven grandchildren. After practicing Anesthesiology for 46 years in Cleveland, Ohio, I am enjoying renewing old friends in the Columbus area as well as traveling, golf, and above all, my grandchildren.
Marcia Palmer Pyle
Since our last reunion, I have retired from my position as Preschool Director on our church staff. Getting used to more unscheduled time with new choices has been delightful. I’ve enjoyed some traveling, time with my grandchildren and friends, and more opportunities to volunteer. Each day is a real blessing.
Marsha Snowberger Reynolds
Retirement as a librarian who worked in a variety of special libraries from corporate to governmental and finally hospital; left me with the opportunity to explore and do research in my own fields of interest, American history and genealogy. It also provided time for book clubs and to read novels I had missed. My husband, Robert, and I had time to travel. We traveled the states investigating possible retirement cities and locales. We often stopped to visit with family, our son and daughter-in-law in St. Louis and son in NYC. Libraries were definitely on the list of stops. Meeting with success in a family search meant we added new places to visit. I have done research in the very smallest of libraries to the great collection at the New York City Public Library. Most enjoyable was our trip to the Czech Republic where we walked about a mile from the train station to the village of Mirovice. My husband’s grandmother once lived in this village. We visited every shop around the town square. The best part of our trips was meeting and talking to the local people. Thank goodness retirement allows for time to do just that. Hoping to go to Switzerland next, from where my forefathers emigrated to Philadelphia. Having concluded. Denver is where we will remain. We keep busy with all the city offers from museums, plays, concerts, park walks and hikes in the nearby foothills. Any OWU friends traveling through or around Denver, please feel free to give me a call.
Phillip Grisier Roos
After receiving my Ph.D. from MIT in 1964, and with my wife Pat and daughter Kirsten, I went to the University of Maryland-College Park. To my surprise, I spent the next 41 years there teaching and carrying out research in nuclear and particle physics. Over the years, I did spend extended time at other laboratories with a three year stint at Oak Ridge National Lab from 1965-1968, and sabbatical leaves in France, Vancouver, South Africa, Los Alamos National Lab, and at Indiana University. I loved my academic career and carried out research at more than a dozen particle accelerators in North America, Europe, and Japan resulting in over 130 publications. In 2005 I retired from the University and with my wife Pat moved to Hilton Head, South Carolina. We have really enjoyed the “Low Country” with its marshes, the ocean, the food, and the warm weather (especially in winter). Our daughter Kirsten still lives in our Maryland house, and our two grandsons are in their 20s and working.
*Update taken from 2010 Alumni Today Directory
Kathy Kappel Rose and Jerry L. Rose
Since retiring we have enjoyed travel and several other leisure activities. We have been to both Australia and New Zealand several times. We also enjoy having our grandchildren visit when we’re at home in Northern Minnesota. We spend our winters in Fountain Hills, AZ.
Judith Heis Rosene
Since leaving OWU, I taught elementary school for five years, married in 1962 and raised two daughters, Bonnie and Carolyn. Eventually I went back to teaching, received my Master’s degree in Teaching in English to Speakers of Other Languages from the University of Findlay, and continued teaching ESL until my retirement in 2003. My husband retired from being a college librarian in 2008, and we have been enjoying traveling throughout the world. Our daughter Bonnie, and her husband, Dug, have our grandchildren, Dugan (8) and Sage (6) and live in Chicago. Carolyn now resides in Hillsboro, Oregon.
*Update taken from 2010 Alumni Today Directory
Terry Ross
After retiring from teaching in 1991 I took a part-time position at the University of Akron supervising student teachers. Still employed and still enjoying it. Other than taking cruises, visiting Las Vegas twice a year, playing a lot of golf, and enjoying my children and their families, not much time to relax. We have six grandchildren - ages 18-14 in one family, and six-year-old triplets in another. Never a dull moment. My wife Lois and I have enjoyed 47 wonderful years.
Robert Rusoff
Since graduation in 1960 I have served in the United States Air Force as an Intelligence Officer, married Judy, my wonderful wife of 45 years, and raised two children--- Rob and Lisa. Judy and I are blessed with three grandchildren—Dillan, Austin, and Justin. After the Air Force, I spent over 40 years in Procurement and have been an active Rotarian for over 20 years.
Stephen “Rick” Schaal
A couple of years ago I switched to professor emeritus and discontinued practice of cardiology. I continue to teach medical residents and cardiologists in training as well as perform research. My wife Barbara and I spend considerable enjoyable time at our cottage on Lake Erie. A particular highlight is the summer weeks at the Lake where we are joined by our three children, spouses and eight grandchildren - marvelous times. Spare time is spent gardening (Barbara and I are avid gardeners) birding, biking, golfing and reading.
Jane Derbyshire Schmidt
I am now retired and enjoying my four grandchildren as well as sailing, tennis, volunteering and some traveling. Life is good!
James Schroeder
Rita and I were married November 2008, in a beachfront, barefoot wedding at the Buccaneer, St. Croix. We have settled in all the beachfront Essex and Sussex Spring Lake N.J. (Mary) Lynn Whipple Shackelford
I have been continuing my piano teaching, organist and choir directing careers and have been helping my youngest daughter take care of her 3 year old – lots of fun!
Don Sherlock
I was Sports Editor and then Vice President/Circulation for The Record newspaper in Hackensack, NJ. I am now Associate Editor of several weekly newspapers on Cape Cod, MA.
Sue Shidaker
I have enjoyed professional consulting in the fields of educational curriculum and leadership and find it a pleasant path to gradual retirement. Travel to Italy and Spain have been favorite recreational pursuits. Visiting my son and daughter and their children is some of the most enjoyable time of this stage in life. Having enjoyed a six- year return to Ohio and residence in Cincinnati, I returned to the Washington coast in 2007 and I am enjoying being near mountains and ocean.
Esther Swallen Shores
I’m in final negotiations with the Cliburn Foundation to endorse one of the top three prizes of the Van Cliburn International Piano Competitions for perpetuity. It will be called the Esther Swallen Shores Crystal Award. The Van Cliburn International Piano Competition is considered to be the best in the world.
Elizabeth Berlin Slagle
More of the same- living the good life and well aware of how fortunate we are –winters in Florida-travel-lots of time with grandchildren.
Carol Goodspeed Smith
Fifty years in 200 words? Impossible? First and best: children, Roger, an architect (University of Illinois) with two sons; Ron, a Disney computer animator (Ohio University) with a son and daughter; Martha, (Illinois University) with three sons and a daughter. All are sources of my greatest joys with their varied activities and sports. In my “spare time”, I have taught 5th grade, worked as a church secretary, worked with three psychologists and was an administrative assistant in our district office. Now “retired”, I teach in the Adult Literacy Program. Traveling has been my most fulfilling avocation, from Yangtze River and South China Sea nations to North Africa and Central America. So much to learn and so many delightful people. Now, slowing down a bit, I look to Exploritas, book clubs, church activities, swimming and live theater to fill the time between more frequent naps. It’s a challenge to accept, but those naps and the DVR are nice too! OWU seems another lifetime, but I eagerly look forward to renewing memories.
Richard “Dick” K. Smith
Completed 39-year career with Procter & Gamble; remarried in 1987; now have combined family of seven children and 19 grandchildren; travel to seven continents, 70+ countries.
Larry Spees
I retired after 29 years of teaching at the University of Rio Grande and began wintering in Naples, FL. We travel a great deal, mostly in Europe. I began taking instructions in watercolor painting and enjoy many of the results. Reading is another of my great past times.
Mabel Kinney Stehler
Fred (1959) and I enjoy our children, grandchildren, and traveling.
Elizabeth “Betsy” Sanderson Stobbs
Since graduating in 1960 I have enjoyed living in Columbus, OH, Rochester, NY, Tenafly, NJ, Mountain View, CA, and Black Mountain, NC.
I have been a primary teacher/substitute teacher/volunteer in schools for these 50 years and still love being involved in the education of children.
My husband Dwight and I have three wonderful children who have been a great blessing to us. We have three bright and beautiful granddaughters (ages 11-15), who are a joy to us.
Our most exciting and interesting travels have been to England, Germany, Austria, France, Switzerland, Hawaii and across our country and back (for our moves).
In 1999, we retired and moved to what we think is our final earthly abode in Black Mountain, NC. It is a charming little town nestled in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains near Asheville.
I am involved in an excellent adult education program, school volunteering and a book club. I am a passionate knitter and am in three knitting groups. One is a charity knitting and crocheting group which I started ten years ago and we have donated 15,000 items to charities.
I am grateful for life, health, education, family and friends.
D. Jean Orndorff Summers
I have retired from my non business as a financial services consultant. Fortunately, I did that before this last market upheaval! My husband continues to work (Blackhauk engineer). I stay busy with golf, travel (China, Africa, Turkey, etc.), and my garden, as well as volunteer board activity. Our Florida Condo is a great escape. Life is good.
Nancy Eden Swain
I attended the 30th reunion in 1990; my comments are about experiences since then. Still live in Arlington, VA (outside Washington, DC), so am around “city life”. Completed a graduate degree in social work (MSW) in 1993; also completed postgraduate work. Have been working part-time for more than ten years.
Our three children are married, have children of their own, and currently live from Portland, Oregon, to down east Maine. Grandchildren range in age from four to twenty- two. Last spring attended the college graduation of the oldest grandchild…a memorable event! During August, Derk (my husband) and I celebrated our 50th anniversary with family reunion at Cape Cod. Lucky to get together as one family lived in Tokyo at the same time.
As a clinical social worker, have worked for Huntington’s Disease Society of America. Also worked at a non-profit agency, a counseling, career development, education, and resource center.
Feel grateful for basic health and family. However, several years ago incurred an unusual hearing condition, hypercusis, from noise damage. I hear too well! While it has limited travel and some experience, can still lead a life.
Thank you for the opportunity to write an alumni note.
Mary Wilson Taylor
My husband and I continue to facilitate workshops for the Episcopal Church Pension Fund. In between conferences, we can be found in Lenox, MA, where we spend lots of time going to Tanglewood, taking long hikes, playing with our children and four grandchildren and loving the gift of good health, rich memories and new and old friendships.
Frederick “Roger” Thaler
Since retiring as VP of Colonial Williamsburg in 2000, I, like many, seem to have become a professional volunteer. I spend my days keeping up with three children and spouses and ten grandchildren (nine boys under eight) and two antique British cars (1967 Austin Healey and a 1948 MG TC). Imogene and I travel a great deal (Arctic, Antarctica, South America, Nepal, Bhutan, etc.) to hike and sight see. Our son Rick and I summited Mount Kilimanjaro (19343 ft.) on his 40th and my 70th birthday last year. I still do consulting work for Colonial Williamsburg and play at golf.
William R. Thompson
U.S. Navy 1960-63. Travelers Insurance Co. 1963-1975, Surety Bond Underwriter, Brower Insurance 1995-2000 (Partner). Married for 46 years to Sally (Skidmore College), son and daughters; daughter Julia Goth married (three grandchildren) retired 2000 living in Palm Bend Country, FL, and Dayton, Ohio. Lived in Massachusetts, Minnesota, and Ohio.
Virginia Day Walker
Music continues to be an interest in church choir and a senior chorus member. We recently moved from Berea to Strongsville after living in our Vera home for 44 years. Greetings and best wishes to members of the class of 1960!
Donald Arthur Webb
Rev. Dr. Webb, Scholar-in-Residence at First United Methodist church, Shreveport, is the author of two books, “Deep Calls to Deep” (2002) and “The Best Year Yet” (2006).
Taken from Alumni Today 2010
Gloria Fox Wendel
I’m still organist/coordinator of music and worship at First United Methodist Church. I will have finished 50 years doing the same job in June 2010, and still enjoying it! Larry and I celebrated our 50th anniversary in Sept. 2009. We’re blessed to have four children, three of which are OWU grads, nine grandchildren who enjoy sports and music with their parents and us. We all enjoyed a cruise together, eighteen of us last summer.
Blanche Glavis Werner
Since my husband retired, we spend a lot of time in sunny Texas. We enjoy traveling, our grandchildren, and good friends.
Stephen B. Whitehead
After completing medical school (University of Michigan) in 1964, I trained at the University of Iowa Hospital (1965-1969), was married in 1966 and established practice in Boulder, Colorado, in 1969. Two children (Stephen, 41 and Tracy, 39) live in the Boulder- Denver area. I have been active hiking, backpacking and skiing since moving to Colorado and attended a Cleveland Indian fantasy camp in 1993.
Catherine McGeough Whitright
I have taken a wonderful train trip across Canada, retired after a fulfilling career at the Geough Co. Board of Elections. Spend time with my children, husband and 11 grandchildren. Active in Country Library Friends, Family Planning, United Way, Church (UCC); enjoying retirement.
Sarah “Sally” Taylor Yocum
Following our last reunion my husband and I looked forward to enjoying retirement, traveling and spending time with family and friends. We took a cruise-tour to Alaska in 2007 and a birthday celebration trip with our son to Costa Rica in 2008. I kept busy with volunteer opportunities at church and at the school where I taught as well as serving as a hospice volunteer.
Then in December 2007, Bob was diagnosed with a progressive neurological disease called PSP. Progressive Supranuclear Palsy is a secondary Parkinsonism for which there is no medication or treatment. Since Bob has very little energy, he needs a wheelchair to ambulate and has largely lost his ability to speak, we have made many adjustments. Last summer we sold our home of 30 years and purchased a wonderful condo home that suits our needs beautifully. As I am primary caregiver, my volunteer activities have greatly diminished. We are blessed to have some good caregivers and, especially, supportive family friends.
Our son Brian is in Chicago where he is Director of Advancement for College of Architecture and the Arts at the University of Illinois at Chicago. Amy, our daughter, husband and three children live nearby. The grandchildren, ages 9 ½ , 6 and 1 provide much joy in our lives.