Deceased O to R

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Deceased, O to R (33) as of November 05, 2022

Mary Clare O'Brien (Sweet),
  521 West Maple Avenue
Cambridge City, IN  47327

Activities Key, GAA, Honor Award Committee, Honor Roll, Home Room Vice-President, Information Squad

40th Reunion  

Mary Clare "Dolly" O'Brien Sweet, Cambridge City
 Dolly passed away July 19th, 2010

Mary C. "Dolly" O'Brien Sweet, Cambridge City, IN, writes:  Attended Purdue University where I met my husband, Jim.  Married August 25, 1951.  Have 6 children, 2 daughters & 4 sons, 10 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren.  We bought out my father-in-law's construction business and operated it until 2003 when we closed the doors.  Presently involved with the American Cancer Society, local sorority, high school - June 2008.  Does not plan to attend 60th Reunion.

June 2008:  Tom (deceased) found an e-mail address for her so she is still kicking.

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Joy Irmelin Ostergaard (Hunter)
Pittsburgh, PA
February 25, 2004

Armed Service Committee, GAA, Home Room Officer, Ways & Means Squad, Y-Teens

    7th grade

Information received February 1, 2018, from Jerry Scherer, Nancy Eckenrode's husband:  I was in the class of ‘47 and arranged our reunions   Note:  Joy Ostergard was married to Bob Hunter from our class.  They lived in the area and Bob had a business “Hunter Sales.”  I think the sons still operate it

From Gretel Braun Barnes (deceased):  I have some more information about Joy.  She died the  morning of February 25th due to complications from heart failure.  The service was held at Beinhauer Funeral Home last Saturday.   Truly sad.

 50th Reunion    

From Bill Erdman, WebMaster:  I was not ready for this news.  Bob Woeber (deceased) sent a simple note, "Bill, I just heard that Joy died recently."   Nothing else.  I sadly moved Joy from the "Active" page to the "gone.htm" page.  A relatively simple operation.  But the memories aren't so simple.  The only information on her page after 55+ years was a 7th grade picture, a senior picture, a 50th reunion picture, one line stating what she was involved in in High School and "Died early 2004".  That's it!  I can only remember her as a vibrant and attractive classmate who was always nice to talk with.  Fifty-five years later I haven't a clue as to her accomplishments, family, successes or any thing else that would be nice to reflect on at this point.  How very, very sad.  Joy, we never knew you and it was our loss.

If you have read this far, stop, think about Joy, spend a little of you precious time left on this earth and drop a line to me so your classmate will have some little idea of who you turned out to be.  Just click here and send it to me on-line:    I'm taking my own suggestion and going to update my page before I send this.  Bill, February 2004

Robert Ray Ott
Pittsburgh, PA  15226
Deceased, March 27, 2010
 Bob's Biography

OTT ROBERT RAY - Age 79 of Mt. Lebanon on Saturday March 27, 2010.  Beloved husband of the late Eary Lozano Ott.  Loving father of Robert Ott, Eary Ott, Aleta Weakland, Ilena (Bill) Yurochko, Bruce (Mary) Ott.  Grandfather of Daniel Ott, Michael & Patrick Weakland, Billy & Stephan Yurochko, Adrian J., Alyssa & Dillon Ott.  Robert was a graduate of Mt. Lebanon High School.  He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree and played football under Lou Little, at Columbia University.  He also served in the Navy during the Korean War.  Funeral Arrangements are in the care of Beinhauers.  A private Memorial Service will be held Saturday April 17, 2010.  Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Eary L. Ott to the: Susan G. Komen Foundation . 1133 S. Braddock Ave, Suite 1A, Pittsburgh, PA 15218.

Activities Key, Basketball Co-Captain, Football Co-Captain, Honor Roll, Home Room President, Hospitality Committee

Kay and Bill:  Thank you for the beautiful happy faces of your family pictures.  It is always a deep pleasure to see a healthy happy three generations celebrating their love and appreciation for each other.

Thank you for including me.  2005 and 2006 are years of surgical repair, but all will be well when they are completed.

May the blessings of the season bring your family together to share and celebrate.  Bob.- December 2005

From 1958 Reunion Newsletter: BOB OTT.  Bill Stanley reports that he ran into Bob while aboard an aircraft carrier in the Mediterranean & that Bob married a Wave from Bill's ship.

Bob's Biography - February 2003 I lost my wife to cancer two months before the 45th reunion.  Five children have produced eight young grandchildren. Highlights are:  An AB from Columbia -- Business, Economics, and football, in that order  US Navy -- 4years, US Steel -- 27 years  Consulting -- 15 years. My career has been about helping organizations develop structures and performance systems and processes to effectively educate, develop, utilize, and celebrate their human resources.  Bob

From Bill Erdman, WebMaster:  What a loss.  His note (above) from December, 2005, is special to me.  Unfortunately we were not able to get together although I talked with him on the phone.  He was as much of a gentleman then as he was in high school.  His last line of his biography above says it all - Knowing Bob was to know that he would help, educate, develop, utilize and celebrate others.  He was a friend to all.  Bob, thanks for being a friend to me.  Bill, March 2010

A. ALAN PAULUS  12 Mt. Lebanon Blvd. Pittsburgh, PA  15228 October 21, 2014 Grade school?   Football, Hi-Y, Home Room Basketball, Track, Wrestling 50th Reunion Al & Lois @ 55th Reunion Click to enlarge PAULUS ALFRED ALAN - Age 83, of Mount Lebanon, passed away on Tuesday, October 21, 2014, in the company of his daughter, Amy Pople.  Beloved husband of the late Lois Ann (McCullough) Paulus; cherished father of Tim Paulus, Amy Paulus (Andrew) Pople, Mike Paulus and Sid (Shaun) Armour; loving grandfather of Elliott, Simon, Jeremy and Mitchell Pople, Finn and Zuzu Armour; brother of the late John Adam Paulus. Al was a trustee and choir member at Mt. Lebanon Evangelical Presbyterian Church.  He served his country in the US Army.  He retired in 2013 as a Vice President at Hefren-Tillotson, Inc.  He was also a five-decade member of Shawnee and Past President of The Bond Club of Pittsburgh.  Al was a lifelong Steelers fan and a proud witness to the Immaculate Reception.  Al was deeply loved by his family and friends and will be dearly missed. From Bob Stabile (deceased), August 2010:   Bill, I just learned that Al Paulus' wife, Lois, passed away on 7/25/10. Al an I were hi school and college buddies. They had 4 children:  Tim Paulus, Amy Paulus Pople (Andrew), Mike Paulus and Sue Armour (Shaun).  And 6 grandchildren:  Elliott, Simon, Jeremy and Mitchell Pople, Finn and Zuzu Armour

Joan Adele Peck (Maury)
September 21, 2006
Atlanta, GA

GAA, Home Room Secretary, Traffic Squad, Ways & Means Squad, Y-Teens

At reunion - Click to enlarge

50th Reunion

Per Tom (deceased), May 2008, Joan's husband Thomas J. Maurey was a Regional Manager for Marsh & McLennan and they moved around; Little Silver, NJ, Laguna Niguel, CA, Atlanta, GA, etc.  On SS Death Records I found: Joan P. Maurey died September 21, 2006 in Atlanta, GA.

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Nancy Joyce Piper

"Lost" - No information about Nancy since graduation (70 years).  Reluctantly assumed deceased

William Polachek

"Lost" - No information about Bill since graduation (70 years).  Reluctantly assumed deceased

 

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JAMES A. POLSON  271 Possum Hollow Rd. Greensburg, PA  15601 Hi-Y, Home Room Basketball, Home Room VicePresident, Studio Squad Have not heard from Jim since 40th reunion (30 years).  Reluctantly assumed deceased Grade school? 40th Reunion

Nancy Ponting

"Lost" - No information about Nancy since graduation (70 years).  Reluctantly assumed deceased

Charles Portman
Pittsburgh, PA
April 20th, 2001

8th grade

Bill, one of the few upsides regarding our deceased classmates is finding the obituary and being able to revel in reading the accomplishment of our departed friends.  I had forgotten how involved Chic was in Three Rivers Stadium.  All reference to him in the obit is Chic and we use Chick, but not sure what his preference was. – Tom (deceased), August 2008

Deceased: CHARLES E. PORTMAN HE RAN STADIUM IN STEELERS, BUCS GLORY DAYS
April 25, 2001 Obituary - Charles E. "Chick" Portman ran Three Rivers Stadium in the 1970s, the glory days when the Steelers won four Super Bowls and the Pirates won two World Series.

Mr. Portman, a lawyer and lifelong Mt. Lebanon resident, served as the stadium's executive director for 10 years, from its opening in 1970 until resuming his law career in private practice in 1980.

"That place was always busy.  It was a great deal of fun," said James L. Smith, a Mt. Lebanon insurance executive who chaired the Stadium Authority board when Mr. Portman was director.

"Chic was the guy -- the point man on tickets.  Everybody wanted tickets for the playoff games or World Series, but sometimes he would have to say no," Smith said.

"Just as there is with PNC Park now, there was a lot of excitement back then with Three Rivers," said former Mayor Pete Flaherty, who named Mr. Portman as stadium director.

"Chic had to do yeoman's work to get the new stadium all figured out.  It was a big move, going from Forbes Field in Oakland to the North Side.  But he was a lawyer and could understand the complicated lease terms with the teams."

Mr. Portman died Friday of complications of pancreatitis. He was 70.

“Mr. Portman did a great job of running the stadium and making it a viable and terrific place for the Steelers," said team owner Dan Rooney.

Brian Portman, the youngest of Mr. Portman's eight children, recalled how his father would take them to the stadium in the 1970s.

"It was brand new back then.  We went in through the back doors and went into Dad's office.  We had access to the locker rooms.  The equipment manager would let us run around.

"One day the Steelers and Pirates played a softball game (at the stadium).  My brothers and sisters and I got to run around on the field that day.  [Steelers founder] Art Rooney gave us a football signed by the players, and [then-manager of the Pirates] Chuck Tanner, I think, gave us a baseball signed by the players.  It was really cool."

Shortly after the stadium opened, some children were injured jumping off one of the ramps, Smith recalled.  For some reason, there was a lot of red tape involved with getting protective rails installed.

"But Chic said, 'I'll get it done,' and he did," Smith said.  "Everything about the stadium was a big deal.  Whatever was newsworthy, it was three times as much because it had to do with the stadium."

Mr. Portman's first wife, Anne, the mother of his children, died in 1991.  He married Maureen Coyne in 1999.

In addition to his wife and his son Brian, who lives in Chicago, Mr. Portman is survived by four other sons, Charlie, Mark and Eric, all of San Diego, and Dan of Portland, Ore.; three daughters, Jean Mosites of Peters, Emily Klink of North Canton, Ohio, and Christine Hunter of Chicago; three sisters, Mary Lou Ward of Wheeling, W.Va., Patricia Cain of Pittsburgh and Virginia Wintz of Orlando, Fla.; a brother, James Portman of San Diego; and eight grandchildren.

Chick's first wife was Ann Brown, Class of 1949 or 50 from Mt Lebanon.  She died of Cancer.  Chick re-married Maureen Coyne 2 years ago.  A wonderful couple.  He had been in the hospital for an operation which was a "last ditch" effort to take care of his complicated problems.

Bob Woeber (deceased) says, "We had been good friends.  We will miss him."  - April 2001

Bill, I just heard last night that Chick Portman died yesterday (April 20th, 2001).  He had been in the hospital for an operation which was a "last ditch" effort to take care of his complicated problems.

Chick had been married to Maureen Coyne for around a year.  We had been good friends.  We will miss him. - Bob Woeber (deceased) - April 2001

Ann Pricer (Niepp)
December 31, 2001
Pittsburgh, PA

From Bill Erdman, WebMaster:  Ann Pricer and Mary Jane Wibner are 2 more sad additions to this page.  I didn't know Ann very well in High School but that doesn't ease the pain of moving her from her rightful place on the "P" page.  Mary Jane is a lot tougher as I knew her reasonably well from various classes we had together.  Again, I am so sorry that we didn't get a chance to know more about them as I am sure that they both made this world a little better place for all those that knew them.  So long you two, it's been good to know you both, even for  little while.  Bill, May 2003

Barbara Ann Pritchard (Evanson)   270 Thornhill Court Barrington IL  60010  Ann's Biography October 4, 2021 GAA, Home Room Ofticers, Medical Squad, Y-Teens Ann Evanson, 90 years young, passed away in her home October 04 in Tucson, Arizona of multiple metastatic cancer. She did not suffer and has been surrounded by family over the past two weeks. To many she was Ann, to her high school friends she was ‘Pritch', to the three of us she was Mom, and to her three grandchildren, she was Gramie.  Mom was a loving parent to us; a good friend to many; and a gracious hostess to everyone who entered her home.  We feel lucky for having had her in our lives for as long as we did, and grateful that she was healthy and active almost until the end.  Although she will be missed forever, the example of her zeal for life, her optimism, and her generosity remains with us.  Mom asked that there be no funeral, flowers, or contributions to a charity. Just keep her alive in your memories, and especially remember how much she loved you — her dearest friends.  Our happy memories of Ann will unite us with one another. In memory of her gracious spirit, Rick, Barbara, and Bill Valicenti.  October, 2021 40th Reunion 50th Reunion Ann and Anne Mosites @ 60th Reunion Nancy Godden, Mitzie Fantl, Anne Mosites, Suzanne Divine , Marilyn Brey, Mary Murrie and Ann @ 60th Reunion   Ann and Anne Mosites Miller - 65th Reunion Nancy Gregory Detwiler, Marg Degiavanni Colella, Ray Ferarro, Mary Murrie Hardy, Ann Bowman McClymonds, Nancy Godden, Jeanne Vayda (deceased) McCallum, Ann and Suzanne Divine Williams at 65th Reunion Suzanne Divine Williams, Jeanne Vayda (deceased) McCallum, Ann Bowman McClymonds, Anne Mosites Miller, Ann, Mary Murrie Hardy and Nancy Godden at 65th Reunon Lyndon (gd), Linda (dil), Sonny (gs), Rick (s), Barb (d), Bill (sil), Ann, Cliff (h), Bill (s), Evan (gs), Noni (dil) & Derrek (gs) Ann Pritchard delivered the sad news from Barry Norris:  Barbara Adams passed this afternoon from severe stomach cancer.  Two of her children were with her.  We all will miss her very much.  Barry - June 18, 2018.  Ann added this note:  Even in our very early years, as young girls, Barbara was the epitome of peaceful grace.  That remembrance of her will be ever pleasant and present for me. - 2018 At our age I think the old adage "No News is Good News" applies here....I am, thankfully, about the same as I was at our reunion in 2013.  I look forward to seeing my classmates in 2018.  "Pitch" - November 2017 Hi Bill, Just thought I'd update my bio before the reunion. My late husband, Cliff Evanson passed away in 2004.  In 2011 I married Chuck Porter, a widower, wonderful friend and great bridge and tennis player. Now it's the name game!!!  In the Mt.L. yearbook I am Barbara Ann Pritchard (never ever used the Barbara.)  My high school friends all call me "Pritch."  In 1950 I became Ann P. Valicenti when I married Fred Valicenti who died in 1973.  Then Ann V. Evanson in 1977 when I married Cliff Evanson.  Having been widowed twice and now married for the third time you can imagine the name confusion.  I've chosen to be Ann Evanson which is the name that I have carried for the longest period in my life.  Find picture of Chuck and me attached to this email. See you at the reunion, Ann Evanson "Pritch" - July 2013 Hi Bill,  Thanks for the update.   I assume that, though the yearbook has me as Barbara, you know I go by Ann and I have sent my money to Bob under Ann Pritchard Evanson. The committee sure has worked hard and planned a wonderful weekend.   I'll be staying with Anne Mosites Miller along with some of the other widows.   Bill Miller will have a houseful of women to contend with.  We're really excited about the 60th and look forward to a great time. Again, thanks Bill for keeping us informed.  Ann  ("Pritch") - 2008 From Mary Murrie Hardy, January 2007 - Hi Bill,  thought you might like to see this picture that was taken in October at Suzanne Divine Williams' place.  The lake in the background is right behind her daughter's house, and the good looking group are from left: Jeanne Vayda (deceased) McCallum, Ann Bowman McClymonds, Mitzie Fantl Murphy, Nancy Godden, Anne Mosites Miller, Suzanne Divine Williams, and Ann Pritchard Evanson.  I took the picture.  We had a wonderful 4 days together in the New Jersey, Philadelphia area. October 2005:  The first week of September the annual "DBC" reunion was held at my home in Lake Barrington, IL, a suburb of Chicago.  It was five days of talking and eating.  We spent two days in Chicago seeing the sights including the new Millenium Park (which is great fun and like no other park), the Architectural Boat Tour on the Chicago River (a must do) and a night on the town.  We told everyone that would listen who we were and that we had graduated from Mt. Lebanon High School in 1948.  We hope "they" were impressed! This picture was taken after a long day of touring and shopping so we're a little worse for the wear.  Not bad, considering!  Seated: (L to R) Ann Bowman McClymonds, Suzanne Divine Williams, Peggy Crissman  Funkhouser and Nancy Godden holding my Italian Greyhound, Misty.  Standing: (L to R) Jeanne Vayda (deceased) McCallum, Anne Mosites Miller, Mary Murrie Hardy and Ann Pritchard Evanson.   Barbara Adams (deceased) sent this picture of the latest "DBC" reunion in Stone Harbor, NJ, July 7th, 2003. (See picture below) Suzanne Divine Williams, Jeanne Vayda (deceased) McCallum,  Ann Bowman McClymonds,  Barbara Adams (deceased), Roseanne McIlvane Casey, Ann Mosites Miller, Nancy Godden, Ann Pritchard Evanson and Mary Murrie Hardy.  (Click to enlarge)   Ann's Biography - August 2003: In 1950 I married Fred Valicenti (Mt.L'46) and lived in Mt. Lebanon and Upper St. Clair for 23 years until his sudden death in 1973. We had three children: Rick (b.) 1951, Barbara (b.) 1953 and Bill, (b.) 1960.  A wonderful life for those 23 years!  Always members of the reunion planning committees for both 1946 and 1948.  Fred was a custom home builder and real estate broker and seemingly we knew everyone in town.  It was great fun. Shortly after Fred's death our son Rick graduated from college, married and went on to graduate school.  The other two children and I moved to the North Shore of Chicago where I joined my sister in her interior design business.  My parents also moved from Mt. Lebanon to Lake Forest, Illinois at the same time. In 1977 I met and married my present husband, Cliff Evanson, who had been widowed in 1975.  Another wonderful life for me and it's now been 26 years! Cliff had his own consulting engineering firm, TAB Engineers.  During the 1980's he was national president of the American Consulting Engineers Council and the National Technical Services Association and is a life member of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers.  We were fortunate to visit all of our 50 states; some many times.  Through my work I have also held offices in national and international interior design associations.  We have lived in Highland Park, Lake Bluff and Glencoe, all on Chicago's North Shore. In 1991 we "retired" to Sea Pines, Hilton Head Island, SC, where we were very involved in community affairs.  After college and marriage the children and their children had all settled in Barrington Hills, Lake in the Hills and Crystal Lake, Illinois, respectively, all northwest suburbs of Chicago. Even though we enjoyed the resort living in South Carolina we felt the pull of family.  We returned north in 1997 to Lake Barrington Shores, a resort community too, but within fifteen to thirty minutes of all the children.  And again we are involved.  Cliff is president of our 120 unit condominium association.  There are a total of 1320 units here with a president of each 100 or so units.  18 holes of golf, tennis, pools and all the amenities and in Northern Illinois no less!  We play lots of bridge to keep our brains active and we walk the three miles around our lake to keep the bodies active.  Also, I am recent past-president of the Welcome Wagon Club of Barrington and continue to serve on their Board.  "Pritch"

Joanne Raciappa (Chewning)
November 18, 1997

Information found by Tom Arganbeight (deceased), May 2008:  Joanne Raciappa died November 18, 1997 in Fredericksburg, VA.

Kenneth Reardon

Have not heard from Ken since graduation (70 years).  Reluctantly assumed deceased

Robert Rees

Have not heard from Bob since graduation (70 years).  Reluctantly assumed deceased

PAUL RHODES
 6933 Xene Lane North
Maple Grove, MN  55311
 Paul's Biography

Activities Key, Honor Roll, Home Room Officer, Intramural Referee, Student Court Judge

High School      

45th Reunion

50th Reunion

Paul and Jan @ 60th Reunion

Paul and Jan @ 60th Reunion

In August of 2022 I sent out a blanket email trying to interest people in having a "Zoom Reunion."  Paul's email came back as "not-valid".  Sadly I must transfer him to the deceased list in hopes that someone will correct me if I am in error. - August 2022.

Mind wants to come but body says no.  I'm almost immobile.  Hope everyone is fine -- Have a great time! – Paul – July 2013

Paul writes:  My walking has become a near disaster.  I'm trying but it hasn't got any better.  Still in AZ in the winter.  Want to come to the reunion but if I don't get better I'll have to pass. - December 2012

August 2010 - Now I have reached the "magic" age also.  Still fairly healthy but don't see or hear as well as I'd like.  Planning to return to AZ this Nov.  Love to see anyone that visits Phoenix this Winter. - Paul

We are leaving our winter home in Fountain Hills, AZ on May 2.  I have some aches & pains but still trying to play golf.  Have enjoyed a great winter.  Hope all is well with all of you!! - April 2010

Janet and I are about to return to Minnesota from Arizona.  I've had an operation on my legs and am walking somewhat better.  Loved seeing everyone at the 60th.  Will try like mad to make the 65th - Paul, May 2009

February 2008 - Right now I plan to attend with my new wife, Janet.  Paul

August 2006:  My first wife of 50+ years died in early 2004 after a long illness.  I met Janet in August of 2004 and married her in May of 2005.  We live in Fountain Hills AZ 6 months and Maple Grove MN 6 months.  

Have traveled to France & Italy -- New Zealand and Australia since we got hitched.  Planning trip to Vienna this fall.  Janet has 4 kids so we have 5 around us and I have one in Salem, OR.  

Am going to try hard to make the 60th.  Best regards to all.  Paul C. Rhodes

Yes, Martha and I were married on Sept 9, 1953.  Another Harvard guy.  Incidentally Martha is still in a nursing home here.  She's very gradually getting worse.  - In response to Igor Alexeff's (deceased) 50th wedding celebration notice - March 2004

November 2003:  We would have liked to come to the 55th.  However, Martha has either been in a nursing facility or hospital since July 29th.  She has brain cancer and it's robbing her of her mind.  I go to the facility every day.

My brother and I went to AZ where Martha and I have a home.  We brought all the stuff back and are renting it this winter.  Martha's outlook is muddied but she needs more help than I can give her alone.  You may not know but Dave Lucas (deceased) also has a rare disease, but his outlook is better than Martha's. 

I wish you all a very happy and healthy holiday season and a great New Year.  My plans are on hold for a while.  Paul

July 2003:  Bill: We are not going to make it this year. Martha has gotten much worse and I have prostate cancer and am going to need Knee surgery.  Love to be
there ---- maybe next time.  Paul C. Rhodes

I would like to come to the 55th.  My problem is that my wife has a brain tumor and shouldn't be left alone very long.  She has told me to go to it, but has other stuff wrong also.  If I can find someone to stay with her I'll come.  Right now we're in Fountain Hills, AZ.  We plan to return to the Twin Cities in May.  Regards, Paul Rhodes, February 2003

June, 2001  Congratulations on finding Herb Kindle! (Now deceased - January 2007)  Please send me his E-mail or snail mail address.

We had an uneventful fall and winter.  We went to Arizona in January and stayed until April.  We opted out of the super cold and snow in Minnesota.  Martha had a problem with her lungs but everything worked out OK with her biopsy.  

We stopped in Santa Fe, NM on the way home from Arizona and remained there longer than planned.  I had an acute gall bladder attack and had to call 911.  Seven days later I left the hospital minus the gall bladder but with a serious case of atrial fibrillation.  

We cancelled a trip to St. Petersburg, Russia, because of the ill health.  We are planning to take a trip to Lake Louise and what have you in the late summer with the kids and grandkids.  Am still playing golf, but alas nowhere near as well as bygone days.  Paul & Martha Rhodes 

August, 2000:  We went to Rome and Florence last summer and did all the tourist things.  We saw Capri, Naples, and the Leaning Tower of Pisa. 

Martha had her 50th high school reunion in September of 1999.  They looked as old as we did!  

We went on a cruise to Australia and New Zealand and enjoyed it.  We would recommend it to everyone. 

We spent the winter in Fountain Hills, AZ .  Paul enjoys playing golf and swimming.  Martha goes swimming and catches up with the movies.  We have some relatives there also.  Our health is fair and hope to make the 55th.  Paul and Martha Rhode

From 1958 Reunion Newsletter:  PAUL RHODES.  Harvard Grad per Ben McDonald

Paul's Biography Graduated Harvard College 1952 with AB- NO HONORS.  Majored in history and the dismal science -- Economics. Married the love of my life- Martha Ludeking 1953. (still married) Children - Louise and Thomas. Three wonderful grandchildren. Martha and I are members of St. Stephan's Episcopal Church in Edina, MN. I was a choir member there until my hearing got so bad I couldn't hear the other parts. Joined USAF in 1952 and became an Observer (navigator radar bombardier) on S-16, a B-36 select crew in the Strategic Air Command.  I was also Squadron Adjutant of 336th Bomb Squadron of 95th Bomb Wing.  Retired as a Captain. Joined Charlotte Observer in 1956 as retail advertising peddler. Received MBA from University of North Carolina in 1960- NO HONORS. Joined Kerker and Associates, (an advertising agency) as an account executive in 1960. Joined BBDO (an advertising agency) in 1967.  I handled First Banks (now US Bank), Burlington Northern, Honeywell, Northwestern Bell (now US West), National Presto, 3M, Advance Machine Company, International Multifoods, Cargill, Winnebago, two defunct beer brands, and many others. My business career was a lot of very hard work; but very illuminating, stimulating and rewarding. Retired Dec, 1984 as an account supervisor. Became a self-employed marketing consultant in 1985. Retired again in late 1992. Have been a SCORE member since 1976.  SCORE is the Service Corps Of Retired Executives.  We help small business people for free. It turns out that I was blessed with the ability to help small business people and really enjoy it. I also have had a significant impact on many golf courses.  At times, in the past, I played extremely well and have the trophies to prove it.  Almost all of the time now I'm very mediocre.    Paul

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Charles Rettberg
 Ponta Vedra Beach, FL
Summer, 2007
 Charlie's Biography

June 2008 - Per Charlie's son, he died last Summer (2007)

From Bill Erdman, WebMaster:  Too much sadness this May and June!  With all the updates, "Lost" people "Found," new addresses found, in-active Classmates heard from and e-mails of pleasure at finding our web site, I'm having a hard time getting my mind wrapped around Charlie's death.  I liked him as a person and miss him in the same way.  Bill, June 2008

CHARLES J. RICHARDSON   410 Katy Lane Oakdale, PA  15071 Home Room Basketball, Home Room Vice-President Have not heard from Charles since 1958 reunion (60 years).  Reluctantly assumed deceased From 1958 Reunion Newsletter: CHARLES RICHARDSON.  Per Bill Lurty, Studied Engr at Perdue and Carnegie Tech.  Graduated from tech in upper 5 of class.  Married and father of a girl and dog.  Dog’s name is Lady and is daughter of Bill’s dog.  1308 Lakemont Dr, Pgh., PA.

SHERWOOD RICHARDSON  550 Miranda Drive Pittsburgh, PA  15241  Sherwood's Biography Hi-Y Secretary, Home Room  Representative, Track Manager Heard from Peggie Richardson yesterday (October 17, 2021) that Sherwood (Skip) passed away .  He lived in Florida but will be buried in Pittsburgh.  He had suffered with various things over the years and always had a bad back.   We are losing them too fast   Mary Murrie - October 2021   40th Reunion 45th Reunion 50th Reunion 50th Reunion 55th Reunion We're celebrating Bud's 70th 60th Reunion 60th Reunion Sherwood & Peggie @ 60th Reunion   Sherwood and Peggie and Ellie and Bob Lund (deceased) at 65th Reunion Peggie and Sherwood at 65th Reunion Bob Woeber (deceased) writes:  I thought you might like to know that Sherwood Richardson and Peggie moved to Florida about a month ago.   They bought a home in Estero, just north of Bonita Springs.   Skip said that it was "gut wrenching” to leave their home here, but apparently they both like their new digs.  I believe that Skip should be more mobile there.   I certainly hope so.  - May 2014 Sherwood's Biography - September, 1999 From Bob Woeber's (deceased) October e-pistol:  P.S. We see Anne Mosites Miller and Mary Murrie Hardy occasionally.   They both look wonderful and seem to be active and happy.    We see Skip Richardson a lot.   He has some physical issues, but is always upbeat and pretty active.  He's a wonderful guy and a great friend.  S. Richardson checking in with some bio info which should take me off the guilt trip you have had me on for the last year. I attended Purdue for most of my engineering (Civil) education but my degree is from Carnegie Tech (now Carnegie-Mellon University).  A year long bout with cancer came in between and it was a slow process getting back on my feet and I ended up with my father's engineering firm where I remained for all of my career.  Our firm's primary business was bridge design and in 1985 we were acquired by the international architectural / engineering firm of HDR of Omaha.  I retired in July of 1989. Married Betty Armstrong of Forest Hills, L.I. in August of 1953 and Betty passed away of cancer in January of 1972 when our children were 8, 10, and 14. Remarried in July of 1973 when I did the greatest sales job of my life to Peggie Purcell of Pittsburgh and our marriage has been blessed with two children. The children are somewhat scattered although Kathy the oldest lives here with husband, Rick, a V.P. with National City Bank, and their two sons who are 8 and 11. Kevin lives in Charlotte where he is General Manager of the Ryerson Steel plant.  He and wife Kathy have a daughter 4 and a son 1. Sue lives in Orlando where she is the counselor at Reedy Creek Elem. School in Kissimmee. Son Mark is also in Charlotte where he is the Mgr. of Cutter's Cigar Bar in the Marriott City Center Hotel. Kirstin is now a freshman at Indiana University in Bloomington which means there are no children rattling around the house for the first time in 42 years. Now that we are empty nesters we expect to do some traveling although we both have mothers to worry about.                                                             Top Of Page                                                            ROBERT F. RINK  35 Oak Knoll Drive Berwyn, PA  19312 November 15, 2015 Hi-Y, Home Room Basketball, Lantern Sports Editor, Usher Squad Earlier than reunion 50 Reunion 60th Reunion Robert F. Rink 82, of Wayne, a life insurance company executive, died Friday, November 15, of a thoracic aortic aneurysm, at Paoli Memorial Hospital. Starting in 1955, Mr. Rink worked in the life insurance industry, rising to president of the Life Insurance Company of North America, which became a subsidiary of CIGNA Corporation.  Following his retirement in 1989, he taught business and finance courses in the Eastern College degree completion program. Born in Pittsburgh, Mr. Rink graduated from Mt. Lebanon High School and the University of Pittsburgh. After college he attended Navy Officer Candidate School and was commissioned as first lieutenant.  He was an overseas Navy veteran, serving on the USS Waller. Mr. Rink was an active member of Wayne Presbyterian Church where he was a ruling elder.  He previously served on the Finance Committee of the Presbytery of Philadelphia and Board of Visitors at Wake Forest University. Mr. Rink loved playing golf at Waynesborough Country Club, but his greatest joy came from family, including summer mystery trips with each of his five grandchildren: Daniel, Jeremy and Liz Getman; and Adam and Ryan Springer. Mr. Rink married Virginia Saunders in 1953; she predeceased him in 2006.  He married Susan Clair Haabestad in 2007.  Besides his wife and grandchildren, he is survived by a son, John Scott; daughters Susan Rink Getman and Cynthia Rink Springer; step-children Kathryn Clair; Peter Haabestad; and Julia Bartosh; eight step-grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. From Google search, November 2015 Have kept hoping severe allergy issues would clear up in time for me to say, "I'll be there", but reality is they haven't and (with great regret), I won't.  Have a great time, and thanks (as always) for all you do to keep us together as Mt Lebanon's Class of '48!!  Bob Rink – August 2013 November 2011 - Hi, Bill- Thanks for your continued effort to keep us together as a class.   No big news - most of it medical.   I had one day this summer my back didn't hurt, and I shot my age (80).   Otherwise, my golf wasn't pretty, except that I still could play, although  not at a level I enjoyed.   Hope all well with you - the  web site has become ever more imp't to those of us from MtL '48, and I'm sure the others appreciate that as much as I do.   Stay well and enjoy the holidays.  Bob Rink August 2010:  Thanks, Bill, for another '48 update - you really serve us all so well.  I'm doing well - remarried 3 years ago last week after losing Ginny in 1/06.  Keep busy with church and golf.   Handicap has gone from 9 to 19, a somewhat unpleasant trip, but still have the occasional good round - an 83 two weeks ago, just 4 shots over my age.   The computer wouldn't believe me when I entered the score for handicap purposes.   Stay well and thanks again for all you do to keep us together as THE Class of '48.   Bob Rink February 2008:  Thanks for your diligence, Bob and Bill.  Hope to see you in August. June 2006 - Thanks for keeping us in touch.  My info not good - my wife of almost 53 years,  Ginny Saunders (Class of '49), died in January while we were wintering in Phoenix.  I am afloat, but without rudder or sails.  Bob Rink

Keith W Roberts

Have not heard from Keith since graduation (70 years).  Reluctantly assumed deceased

Sam Robinson
March 15, 1995
Pittsburgh, PA

Have not heard from Sam since graduation (70 years).  Reluctantly assumed deceased

FRANCES R. ROHRICH (Habe)
 500 Plum Run Road
Canonsburg, PA  15317

Chorus, Devotions Squad, Honor Roll, Home Room Vice-President, Traffic Squad, Y-Teens

All we know is that Frances R. Habe died 9/12/00 in Canonsburg, PA

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John J. Ross
11064 Babcock Blvd
Gibsonia, PA  15044 
April 22, 2009
 Jack's Biography

Cafeteria Squad, Hi-Y Chaplain, Home Room Basketball, Home Room Representative, Usher  Squad Chairman

        8th grade    

From Pittsburgh Post-Gazette:  ROSS JACK, 4/26/09

Age 78, a resident of Pine Twp., since 1984, formerly of Ross Twp., died on Wednesday afternoon, April 22, 2009, at his home.  Jack was born on September 3, 1930, and grew up in Mt. Lebanon, the son of the late Donald R. and Elizabeth Stiteler Ross, Sr.  A graduate of Graceland Junior College in Lamoni, Iowa, he received his Master's Degree in Architecture from Iowa State University in Ames, Iowa.  Jack began practicing Architecture as a sole proprietorship on March 13, 1964.  Eight years later, he was joined by John F. Schonder to form Ross and Schonder Architects.  In 1988, the firm was incorporated as Ross, Schonder, Sterzinger, Cupcheck, PC.  He retired in 1995. 

He was a member of the American Institute of Architects and in 1975 he served as president of the Pittsburgh Chapter.  Some of Jack's notable projects include the Northland Public Library, the Society of Automotive Engineers, Aerotech, Inc., and the Western Pennsylvania Order of the Eastern Star Home.  Jack was also responsible for the design of numerous religious facilities throughout Pennsylvania, Ohio and Michigan.  Jack was a longtime member of the Community of Christ in Gibsonia, and also fellowshipped with Memorial Park Presbyterian Church.  He was a member of Rotary International since the early 1970's and was a member and past president of North Boros Rotary Club.  He was also a Paul Harris Fellow.  He served many years on the North Hills YMCA Board of Directors and was involved in the design and construction of the North Hills and South Hills YMCA, along with several buildings at Camp Kon-O-Kwee and Deer Valley.  He was also a member of the Northern Allegheny Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and a recipient of the Chamber's Arcadia Award.  Jack was an avid sailor and often took friends on his 505 sailboat at Moraine State Park.  He also enjoyed freehand sketching and sculpting in clay.  He greatly admired the works of prominent Architect Frank Lloyd Wright.  Jack found such joy in his work and such fulfillment in community service, such comfort and strength in his family and his church. 

Surviving are his wife of nearly 55 years, Bonnie Luray Carmichael Ross, whom he married on August 7, 1954, a daughter, Ann Jeannette Smetanick, and her husband, Patrick, of Berryville, VA., two sons, Douglas G. Ross of Pine Twp., and David R. Ross of Shreveport, LA., a sister, Jane Ross Mercer, and her husband, R. Jack, of Ontario, California, a brother, David L. Ross, and his wife, Donna, of Ann Arbor, MI., and his grandchildren, Peter J., Raymond, and Abigail J. Smetanick.  He was preceded in death by a brother, Donald R. Ross., Jr. 

Friends and invited to a celebration of Jack's Life at 11:00 AM on Saturday, May 16, 2009, at the Four Points Sheraton in Warrendale, PA.  The family will greet friends from 10:30 until the service at 11:00 AM.  Relatives and friends are invited to join the family for a buffet lunch after the service.  If you would like to remember Jack, contributions may be made for a book in his memory to the Northland Public Library Foundation, 300 Cumberland Rd. Pittsburgh, PA 15237. 

From Bill Erdman, WebMaster: Jack and I have stayed in touch over the 61 years since graduation and I probably visited him more than any other classmate.  He and Bonnie were a fun couple to sit and talk with and talk with on the phone.  Usually the act of writing about the death of a classmate / friend is very emotionally draining and traumatic.  With Jack, it is different.  We saw him after the 60th Reunion and talked, laughed and joked around this March on the phone.  Jack had been having some health problems but was in good spirits and comfortable with his spiritual life.  This is the way I will remember him along with a whole bunch of crazy memories from high school.

 Bonnie called last week and told us Jack had been admitted to Hospice.  I called back 2 days ago and had a last, one-sided conversation with Jack and reminisced to him about our wild youth and told him I loved him.  The tears are coming again as I write this.  Tears for a friend.  Another friend I was able to say "Good by" to before it was too late.  Jack, thanks for the memories (Remember when you showed me the kinks in your "wire recorder"?  Remember the 1/2 tank of gas you used, backing up from the pool to the Women's Club?  Remember.....) and the priceless friendship.  As I said Jack, "I Love you, man." - Bill <>< April 22,  2009

From Bill Erdman, August 2008:  Kay and I visited with Jack and Bonnie after the reunion and told him as much as we could about the activates.  He was sad that they missed it but he just wasn't physically able to attend.  He has a great attitude but his body just doesn't want to cooperate.

From Bill Erdman, May 2005:  Kay and I visited with Jack and Bonnie on a trip through Pittsburgh this Spring.  After 36 years in Florida I had forgotten how beautiful it is in Pennsylvania area during the season change.  I don't want to move back but would like to return next Spring.

Jack is holding his own with the normal problems related to aging.  We had a lot of laughs as we reviewed the web site and the information it contains.  Jack is not computer literate and thoroughly enjoyed the review.

Dear Bill and Class of '48, (August 2003):  Life has been very good to me.  I started college at Graceland College, in Iowa, in Electrical Engineering (the family tradition), the summer after my first year I decided to change to Architecture.  My Dad did not like the idea but after my second year I transferred to Iowa State in Architecture, then told my Dad.  He was a quiet good sport.  I brought back a Missouri Bride, Bonnie, that I met at Iowa State. 

Shortly after college I went in for an Army Physical.   They gave me the good / bad news that I had cataracts on my eyes.  I became 4F. 

After about 7 or 8 years working for other Architects and learning like crazy, I went on my own, working out of my house that I was building in the North Hills.  After a couple of years I got a legitimate one room office in an actual office building. 

Making this short, about 10 years later I had my own six person office in the North Hills when the North was just starting to develop. 

In brief, I retired 2 years ago with about 3500 projects behind us, with about a 15 person staff.   Most of our work was office, manufacturing, municipal and church facilities.  It has been a blast.   Not often is a person's job spending other persons money and get paid for doing it.  Looking back, I have not worked a day in my life. 

I'm sorry that I have lost contact with most of the class but those years we were all together gave me a foundation that has served me very well.

I look forward to seeing you all soon.  And my thanks to all you who are doing the leg work to make this 55th Reunion happen.  Thanks,     Jack Ross 

From 1958 Reunion Newsletter:  JACK ROSS.  Registered Architect with Ingham, Boyd & Pratt. 'Went to Graceland College for 2 years then to Iowa State College for 4 years (Bachelor of Architecture Degree).  Married Bonnie, a Dietitian.  Jack’s comment on the Reunion, "It was good to see that others had lost as much hair as I had".  1523 Dormont Ave, Pgh. 16, Pa.

Jack's Biography - July 2003 After High School, I went to a small church college in Iowa that got me to think creatively and stick my neck out for what I felt was the right thing to do.  Consequently, I started in Electrical Engineering (the family tradition).  While spending my first summer working for my Electrical Contracting father, I counted light fixtures and measured wire, etc., etc. and I noticed that drawings were made by an Architect (I was not even sure how to spell it).  I had taken the Drafting Class from Ray Peters in High School and loved it.  I mentioned to my Dad that I would like to go into Architecture.  He said, "Oh No, that is a luxury business, you want something tangible." Knowing that was a dead end conversation, in the middle of my second year at the Junior College in Iowa, I signed myself into Architecture at Iowa State College.  When my Dad found out it was too late to change and he gave in.  It has been a ball. I met Bonnie, my wife, at Iowa State and brought her home with me.  She is very patient, and to be married to me that is essential.  I worked (learned) at a couple offices in town then went on my own.  We ate a lot of peanut butter in an unfinished house that was my own design - I was laborer / designer.  I went on my own in Architecture when my "office" was in the Kitchen of the unfinished house and the kitchen was in the Laundry.  Everyone thought I was nuts, and they were probably right.  Over 10 to 15 years it grew to about a 15 person "Office" and looking back, I do feel that I have not worked a day in my life.  At 65 I forced myself to retire and left the younger guys in the office in a not too shabby operation.  They now even have a web site. I am glad I am retired, this technology is not my speed.  I am sorry to run on at the mouth but looking back, Mt. Lebanon High School and the experiences I had there taught me that you don't say "I can't".  Thanks Mr. Peters!!!  Bonnie is very patient with me and has put up with and been very supportive of me and I could not have done it without her. Seeing the first 15 or 20 pictures that Bill and Bob have put on the Tube is terrific.  Thanks!!!!!!!! from all of us out here for helping us remember the good friends and experiences we had together that have made a difference in all of our lives.  Jack Ross

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Gary W Russell 

Have not heard from Gary since graduation (70 years).  Reluctantly assumed deceased

The above list constitutes the names of classmates who are known by the Committee to have died or have not been heard from for more than 15 years.  Considerable effort has been made by Bob Woeber (deceased) and Tom Arganbeight (deceased) to locate all of our classmates.

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