Deceased, J to L (35) as of October 12, 2022
June 2003: Retired after a lifetime selling fire hose and equipment to city governments all over the Southeast from a Ft Lauderdale base. Married 36 years, three daughters - all successful'. Has 6 grandchildren. Is in good health. From Bill Erdman, WebMaster: Death comes regardless! I find this very interesting that he said, "good health" one year before his death. We all expect that final day to come way off in the future but death is faithful - it WILL come. Tell your loved one that you love them TODAY. Don't wait. Bill, May 2008
Activities Key, GAA, Honor Award Committee, Honor Roll, Ways & Means Squad, Y-Teens
*** Ruth Jackson Coate November 12, 1930 - February 11, 2013 *** It's been several months now since Ruthie passed away. Now it's time for me to thank all of you for your heartfelt messages of sympathy, sorrow and love - they were so uplifting to me. The Saturday after Ruthie's passing, we held a memorial service here at Friendship Village. 158 people were in the congregation - a wonderful gathering to celebrate Ruthie's life. For those of you who weren't able to be here, I'd like to relate a sketch of what was said and done at the celebration: After the introductory music and prayer, one by one, the family gave their reflections of Ruthie. Dave: I started by referring to the pictures that were displayed in the adjoining room showing Ruthie as our life and family progressed - she was so very beautiful. But what you can't see in the pictures, of course, is her inner beauty - her spiritual worth. She looked for people to help, for instance needy ones at the Guild for the Blind. She'd sit there holding their hand, and describe the action at the ball game or opera where we'd taken them. Besides her beauty, we all were surprised at how brave she was. Yes, brave in the face of many ugly complications that sapped her vitality for the past year, till the inevitability became more and more evident. Towards the end, Ruthie would say to me things like: "I need so much help; you're so good to me". And I'd tell her: "Tweedles, I'm so good to you because I love you so much. You know it's not you or me; it's all about us." Enough of the downside. Let's move it along here so the kids can tell you what it was like growing up, when your mother was the most beautiful girl in the world. Lisa spoke of the times Ruthie taught her to sew and how it blossomed into a lifetime hobby and occupation. Andy told of how he could depend on Ruthie for support when he had problems as a kid - "I'll call my mom". Amy & Burt told a little about Ruthie's 7 grandkids, and how she worked to mold them into people she could be proud of. Dan recalled following Mom all around the house as a 4 year old. "She always found interesting things for me to do." To wrap up the family's recollections, Dan sang one of Ruthie's favorites: "Will The Circle Be Unbroken" accompanied with his banjo. The service was concluded with some scripture readings and our church soloist sang "In The Garden", a favorite of Ruthie's . Dave - June 2013 ..............In the sky, Lord in the sky. To all you loving friends: If you haven't heard already, Ruthie passed away Monday February 11, 2013 at 3:30 AM. She gave it her best; she was happy but hurting to the end. But the end really came last Tuesday morning (2/5). It was a relief for her and us when she succumbed: no prospect of recovery - too much pain. A memorial service will be held in the Commons here at Friendship Village (1290 Boyce Rd, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241) 11:00 AM Saturday Feb.16. Ruthie got the most out of that bit of life that God blessed her with this past year. She was a beautiful lady, a wonderful wife and mother. I loved her so very much. God is great; God is good! Dave - February 12th, 2013 Dave, Ruth's husband, asks that you keep her in your thoughts and prayers as she continues her battle with cancer. Thank you. - February 6, 2013 Greetings Everyone: Ruth and Dave Coate have moved to: 1290 Boyce Rd. Apt C402, Pittsburgh, PA 15241. Our new email address is available from this site - Contact Bill Erdman and he will give it to you. New phone number here is: 724-941-4704. We are both healthy and happy to have the move behind us. Looking forward to exploring our new life here at Friendship Village! We'd love to hear from you and share your latest adventures. God bless you all, Dave & Ruth – April 2011 May, 2005: From her husband Dave: Our update for Class Of '48 web site concerns my wife, RUTH JACKSON Coate. This past April she underwent surgery on her heart: a catheter ablation of the A/V node followed by the installation of a pacemaker. She was exhausted during the four week recovery but now has recovered most of her former vitality and is looking forward to resuming tennis next week. Our youngest son, Dan, and his family are returning July 1st from a year's assignment in Bangalore, India, where he instituted a healthcare outsourcing facility. Cause for family celebration. Hi Bill, Finally I am answering you with an update on myself. I have been married for 53 years to Dave Coate [MTL 46]. We have 4 children and 7 grandchildren. We have lived in Upper St. Clair for 30 years and Dave retired from Westinghouse in 1992. We still see old friends like Claire Hatch (deceased) Moore and Sally Fellows O'Connor (deceased), fun to meet for dinner. We also play bridge with Mtl oldest bridge club Paul Benz & Jack Eckenrode [MTL 46] and Chal McCombs [MTL 47} and wives. We enjoy our home but we go to Chautauqua Lake, NY in the summer and Bonita Springs, FL in the winter. Our youngest son, wife and 2 children have been living in MTL and we as grandparents have attended programs at Washington school and Mellon Jr hi. De Ja Vu!!! But now they are preparing to move to India for several years we will miss them. Thank you for all your updates and appreciate all that you do for the class of 48. Carpe Diem Ruth Jackson Coate. WebMaster's note: I cannot move these wonderful people from the "Active" pages to the "Gone" pages without thinking back to high school. I do this process with tears in my eyes. It's been almost 65 years since I last talked to the Ruth Jackson I remember from high school. Yes, I've talked with her briefly at several reunions but my real memory is from high school. Ruth is one of those sweet, wonderful memories a guy carries around with him. She was usually happy and always took time to smile and say, "Hello." In those days most 12th grade guys didn't date 12th grade girls. I've always regretted that I never asked her out, but I wasn't into rejection then. Dave, thanks for loving Ruth as you did. I was able to work with you long- distance for awhile and appreciate your abilities and concern for others. Bill
Activities Play Business Committee, GAA, Honor Roll, Lantern, Medical Squad, Y-Teens Have not heard from Babe since the 1958 reunion (60 years). Reluctantly assumed deceased From 1958 Reunion Newsletter: BABE JANCIER. Secretary‑receptionist for Christopher Corp., DuPont Bldg., Miami, Fla. Husband type "Mr America" sighted but not sunk. Babe went to Coral Gables Home for vivacious, dynamic, & effervescent waifs. 3000 S W 3rd Ave, Apt. #3, Miami 36, FL.
MARSHALL JEANNERO Marshall we haven't heard from you for 15 years! Our cutoff date for those "Lost / Gone" is 15 years, otherwise we would show 80%+ classmates still alive and that is not statistically possible. We would love to hear from you and would be very happy to move you back to the "Active" list. Bill <>< - January 2018 June 2003: Marshall went to Antioch College. Enlisted in the Army and spent his time in Germany toting a BAR around and trying not get shot by the guy behind him. Grad-school at Fletcher School of Law & Diplomacy near Boston. Taught Economics at Suffolk University. Went into the Foreign Service then got his Ph D at Fletcher and spent the rest of his career teaching Economics at Bentley College. Two kids and no grandchildren
7th grade He was previously married to Nancy Godden for 25 years and they have 4 children - Lee Alden Johnson, Lane Christine Johnson, Lynde Sue Johnson Voet, and Tia Paige Johnson Fabiszewski. They have 4 grandchildren. From Bill Erdman, WebMaster: I've been putting off moving Grant here because I didn't want to face another loss of a classmate - particularly one I knew well from school. I was able to move Bob Hogan without great sadness as I didn't know Bob very well - This does not diminish the loss of Bob however. With Grant's passing I find I'm at a loss for words. My wife, Kay, and I just returned from possibly the best vacation we have had in 48 years of marriage. We are in great health and were able to see all our kids and grandkids twice. Awesome! Grant reminds me, and probably you also, that life is very fragile we must enjoy every moment, spend quality time with our loved ones and most importantly - TELL THEM THAT YOU LOVE THEM! AFFIRM each and everyone of them every chance you get. October 2005
Honor Roll, Physics Laboratory Squad In the SS Death Index, I found a Kenneth A. Johnson, born 3/26/31 with SS# issued in PA, so birth date and SS# were right for our Ken. With a death in 1999 in Lincoln, MA, I found address and phone for his wife Gladys and in speaking with her she said Ken was a graduate of Mt. Lebanon. He had been a high profile professor of Physics at MIT and I believe their Johnson Athletic Center is named for him. Our high school listing has him on the Physics Laboratory Squad and he sure pursued that interest in spades! – Tom (deceased), July 2008 Professor Kenneth A. Johnson dies at 67; taught physics at MIT for 40 years CAMBRIDGE, Mass. -- Kenneth A. Johnson, a physics professor at MIT for 40 years, died of cancer Tuesday at the MIT Infirmary. Professor Johnson, 67, was a leader in the fields of quantum electrodynamics and quantum field theory. Professor Johnson, born in Duluth, MN, on March 26, 1931, earned the BS from Illinois Institute of Technology in 1952 and a masters and PhD from Harvard University in 1954 and 1955. He was a research fellow and lecturer at Harvard and a National Science Foundation Fellow at the Institute for Theoretical Physics in Copenhagen, Denmark, before joining the MIT faculty in the fall of 1958 as an assistant professor. He was promoted to full professor in 1965. Professor Johnson's research deepened the understanding of quantum field theory and quantum electrodynamics. In quantum field theory, he was the first to observe the dimensional and chiral anomalies. His work in quantum chromodynamics provided a method of describing the properties of a system of confined quarks, the MIT bag model. It was one of the first models to describe the properties of hadrons, including protons and neutrons. "Ken was an outstanding member of the department in every way," said Marc Kastner, head of the MIT Department of Physics. "He was a superb mentor for young faculty and students, an excellent classroom teacher, and a wise counselor on departmental issues. We all miss him." "Ken was a widely admired and respected figure in his field," said Professor Francis Low, a colleague and friend for more than 40 years. "He was a marvelous man to have in your department. He sought scientific understanding at the deepest level, but he was always ready and able to support and assist his colleagues." Professor Johnson was a Fellow of the American Physical Society, the American Academy of Arts and Sciences and the American Association for the Advancement of Science. He is survived by his wife, Gladys (Diaz de los Arcos) of Lincoln, MA, and one son, Keith, a researcher at Alkermes Inc. who resides in Hudson, MA . Burial was private.
Medical Squad, Poster Squad, Y-Teens Social Committee SHIRLEY A. ROGERS (nee Johnson) 81, passed away June 24, 2012. Beloved wife of Herbert Rogers. Loving mother of Niles P. Rogers (Debbie), Michael J. Rogers (Claudia) and Chris Rogers (Linda). Dear grandmother of Bryon, Daniel, David (Melanie), Joann and Melissa Rogers, Sandra Nock, Rebecca Price Karoly, and David Price. Dear great-grandmother of five. A memorial service was held Friday June 29, 2012 in North Ridgeville. Interment was at Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery in Rittman. Memorial contributions may be made to Seeds of Literacy Project, 2001 W. 65th St., Cleveland, OH 44102 or Project Learn, 2728 Euclid Ave. Floor 4, Cleveland, Oh 44115. June 2008: I just talked with Shirley. She and her husband Herb are both in rehab; they fell separately and broke bones and hope to be back to their condo in N. Ridgeville, OH later this month. Shirley gave me a new email address. Shirley and Betty Robb were very close friends in HS and had lost touch so I was happy to let her know I'd found Betty. – Tom. December 2005; Nancy Rankin Linn writes: I've also had good phone calls and emails from friend Shirley Johnson
Chorus, Devotions Squad, Three Year Music Letter, GAA, Home Room Officer, Operetta, Y-Teens Have not heard from Anna Lou since graduation (70 years). Reluctantly assumed deceased
June 2008: I have found the following for Harriet Jones (Herget) on the SS Death Index to add to her web page: Harriet J. Herget d. 6/2/95 in Pittsburgh 15243 - Tom (deceased) From Bill Erdman, WebMaster: Tom (deceased) confirmed Harriet's date of death some years after she was moved here to the deceased list. As I update this I remember that Harriet was my first actual "date" in high school! I died a hundred deaths getting up the nerve to call her and when she said, "Yes," I didn't know what to do next. It snowed the evening of our date so I used 1/4" of snow on the ground as an excuse not to take her out. I called and cancelled! What a dope! I regret that I never had the opportunity to apologize to her. June 2008
Band, GAA, Orchestra, Traffic Squad Have not heard from Pat since the 1958 reunion (60 years). Reluctantly assumed deceased From 1958 Reunion Newsletter: PAT JONES Shiffler. Marine Air Corp husband is to be shipped to Okinawa for 2 years. Has a boy 3 and a girl. Info thanks to Janie Morris Rex. 8481 Inchon Pl., Wherry Park, Santa Ana, California.
"Lost" - No information about Bob since graduation (70 years). Reluctantly assumed deceased
Chorus, Color Guard, Cross Country, Operetta, Stage Crew, Track 50th Reunion Have not heard from Joe since graduation (70 years) although I do have a picture of him and his wife from the 50th Reunion. Reluctantly assumed deceased From 1958 Reunion Newsletter: JOE KARCHER. Married & planning 3 year tenure as missionary‑doctor in Pakistan. 242 Edward Ave, Pgh. 1, Pa.
40th Reunion Information found by Tom Arganbeight (deceased), May 2008: Jeanne Kappler died February 22, 2001, in Pittsburgh, PA.
From
Bill Erdman, WebMaster:
Jeanne was one of our Classmates that I had a crush one every so
often but since she was the same age I dumped her for younger girls -
Jeannie never knew this of course. As I write this I wonder
what she was like as she went through life. I guess I'll never
know.
KARLOWITZ, BELA A., Age 73, of Upper St. Clair, on Sat., Nov. 8, 2003; loving father of Katie, Mark, Anne and Matthew Karlovitz and Elizabeth (Mark) Mason and the late Eric Karlovitz; son of Béla A. and the late Maria Karlovitz; brother of Maria Peters and the late Les Karlovitz; also survived by three grandchildren. The family requests memorial contributions to the International Rescue Committee, 122 East 42nd St., New York, NY 10168. From Bill Erdman, WebMaster: I just sent out an global e-mail chastising everyone for not sending up-to-date information following our 55th reunion. I received one rather snippy comment back but no update. Then today I received the Funeral Notice for Bala Karlovitz and I thought, "How very, very sad that the only thing I have to put on his web page to show for his 55 years after graduation is his Death Notice! And people wonder why I keep asking them for information about their life." As I get older I find I do care about people I have known over the years - I do care about their successes and how they have dealt with tragedies over the year. We are all unique in the sight of whatever God you worship - If you are an atheist, I guess you are still unique but no one cares. Don't let your web picture only show the "dash" between your birth and your death. Let us know what you have accomplished during your "dash". November 2003
GAA, Home Room Officer, Lantern, Library Squad, Medical Squad, Y-Teens I am sad to report that Nancy Kelley (Mrs Donald) Trageser died very recently in Florida. - Marty McVay Hills – September 2010
Hi-Y Basketball, Home Room Basketball Information found by Tom (deceased), May 2008: Dick died in April of 2004 From 1958 Reunion Newsletter: DICK KELLY. Mary Frances Troxell Stanley’s (deceased) brother‑in‑law. 6 Margaret St., Pgh. 38, Pa.
June 2007: Per note from Bill Smith, MtL 1947 : Did you know Herb Kindle died? When I got home from our Lehigh Reunion I looked him up then called his home. His wife answered and confirmed that Herb died in January on their 18th anniversary. High school - Basketball, Honor Roll, Home Room Basketball, Home Room President June 7th, 2001 - I talked to Herb also and by golly, he is alive! His wife Grace thinks so too because she laughed at his jokes. Herb promised to give us an update as soon as he fully comprehends his miraculous recovery. - Bill <>< June 6th, 2001 - From Bill Smith, MtL 1947 : "Tonight I reached Herb Kindle on the phone--and he is not now---or ever has been deceased. His address is as shown in the Lehigh alumni guide. His phone number is as shown but his new area code is 727. Herb lost his first wife a number of years ago and has been remarried for 12 years. He is in Seminole, Florida." (Editor's note - 1,002 apologies to Herb. I was told that he had died several years ago. This is the first report of my error. Bill <><) Herb's death notice is the fourth in 3 weeks. Too many, too quickly. As you can tell from above I had reported this 5 years ago from misinformation. Sadly it is true now. I always appreciated Herb from high school and college. I didn't see too much of him at Lehigh but when we did meet he was always a gentleman and a pleasant guy to know. I'm sorry I don't know more about him to report. I tried to talk with him by phone but was unable to communicate directly. As usual. I'm saddened by the loss and saddened by the lack of history to pass on to you. Bill, June 2007
ROBERT
KIRKHAM
Last heard about Robert was from picture of him at 60th Reunion - 2008 Donald E.
Kirsopp Home Room Basketball, Home Room Officer From 1958 Reunion Newsletter: DON KIRSOPP. Works for Union Carbide Chemicals. Children: Carol June 4, Roberta Claire 3, Ruth Filby 1. No, Don, I don’t know the secret for boys. Don spent 4 years in the Air Force. Married Mary Ann McKee of New Castle. Has been with UCC for 4 years. Also mentions he is losing his hair. 2402 Walnut, Victoria, TX
Activities Play, High Honor Roll, Home Room Secretary, Operetta Lead, Triple Trio, Y-Teens
TOPSHAM — Lois Koerber Wilcox, 84, devoted mother and grandmother, died Thursday, Dec. 4, 2014, at The Highlands Cadigan Lodge in Topsham, Maine, with her family by her side. Lois was born on Oct. 17, 1930, in Pittsburgh, Pa., to Ralph and Edith Koerber, joining older brothers Ralph and Everett. Lois showed amazing musical talent at a very young age. After an audition at the radio station KDKA in Pittsburgh, Lois was given her own radio program starting at age 9 until age 15 when she retired from the station to star in her high school musicals. As a young girl, she was very active in Mt. Lebanon Presbyterian Church in Pittsburgh where she was a church soloist. After high school, Lois, nicknamed Taffy for her blonde hair, went to Washington, D.C. to work as a “G girl” or “Where's the story?” government girl at the Pentagon to raise money to attend Muskingum College, which she attended for a year. While in D.C., her musical talent was once again discovered. She became a performer with the USO and flew to numerous locations to bring music and entertainment to the troops. After singing at a government event, she received an invitation to sing at the White House in the East Room where she sang for President and Mrs. Eisenhower and Cabinet members. She was 22 when she shook President Eisenhower's hand and was invited to his inauguration. Lois left her government job to become the singing star at The Lotus nightclub in Washington, D.C. She also came in second place in the Miss Washington D.C. Pageant. Her talent, beautiful smile, and love for others always drew people to her. She left her singing career upon marriage to Richard Wilcox and beginning a family. Lois excelled at secretarial work, including working with her daughter Bonnie in Baltimore for the LPGA, son Rick for three years, and later as the assistant to the owner of the Pimlico Racetrack in Baltimore. She was up to the challenge of any position she held and was begged to work part time after she retired from her position with Howard County in MD in the mid 19905. She moved from Baltimore to Topsham in 2001 to be with family and kept many old friends while making new ones. A very quick learner, she loved playing games of any kind with her family or friends, and made a formidable opponent. She loved fireworks, chocolate, and cats. She enjoyed the Maine State Music Theatre, the Portland Symphony Orchestra, and leading the choir at The Highlands in the early 2000s. Lois always believed her greatest calling was mother and grandmother to her family. She had a positive attitude and brought humor, music and the love of animals to her family. She would worry about any animal she felt was neglected or in need. She is survived by her children Rick and his wife Lame of Topsharn, Maine, Ken and his wife Robin of Edmonds, Wash„ and Bonnie (Bienert) and her husband Tom of Crystal Lake, III., as well as 11 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. A Celebration of Life service was held on Sunday, Dec. 7 at The Highlands Main Lodge Georgetown Parlor, 30 Governors Way, Topsham, Maine at 10 a.m. Lois Koerber Wilcox peacefully passed away this morning, surrounded by her family and friends. Just wanted to let you know. Grandson, Kevin - December 4, 2014 I am Lois Koerber's grandson and I'm reaching out to you for some pictures, stories, recordings, or any information you may have about my grandmother that I may show her and eventually keep to remember her by. We know she was an excellent singer in her early years and even sang some for Pittsburgh radio stations KDKA and WESA from age 10-20. She eventually went on to a small career in Washington D.C. singing for the USO and at the Lotus Lounge, before she met my grandfather and settled down to a life as a homemaker at age 23. She has always regretted that she didn't pursue her singing career more fully. She looks back fondly on her days in Pittsburgh / D.C. She has many news clippings from D.C. newspapers raving about "Lois King" as she was known, and also performed at the White House for President Eisenhower and company during one of their formal dinners. If you happen to think of any other memories or thoughts of my Grandma I'd love to hear them! Thank her classmates for their love and ask that they share in our memories. I'm sure my grandmother would also send her best wishes though she doesn't know I'm doing this and she isn't feeling well enough to be emailing or talking with many people at this time. Thank you, Kevin Wilcox – October, 2014 Lois, Topsham, Maine, writes: Just checking in. I've been living in Maine for the last 12 years. Marge (DiGiovanni Colella) told me about the reunion and it was fun hearing about everyone. Sorry I couldn't attend. I would have loved to see all you nice people. You're doing a great job! Thank you for all you do. September 2013 February 2008: Hi, Bill. This is Lois Koerber Wilcox. So nice to get your Emails. August 2003: My home was destroyed by fire in 1999 - struck by lightning while I was away on a trip. I decided not to move back in after rebuilding my home, but instead to move up to Maine near my son and his family. Maine is a beautiful state - however, the difficulty is that it is so very far away from the rest of the world! I have recently had surgery and am not quite ready for traveling. I will really miss coming to the reunion, and the opportunity to see so many old friends once again. The last one was great, and I hope this one turns out to be a huge success as well. Most of all, I hope and pray that you are healing well, Bill, and will soon be back to your old self (did I say "old" - I didn't mean that! - let's say "former"). Please take good care of yourself. Lois Moved to Maine in 2001. Unsure whether I will be able to attend reunion - will certainly come if I can! Lois, March 2003
Home Room Basketball, National Scholastic Rifle Champion, Publicity Committee, Rifle, Scoreboard Squad
Have not heard from Steve since graduation
(70 years). Reluctantly assumed deceased
Football, Track June 30, 2008: Received a letter from Bill's wife, Ethel today. She attached a typed letter from Bill and a hand written note that said, "Dear Bill, It's with a heavy heart that I mail this letter to you. I found it on his desk, perhaps written on June 22. He passed away June 24 (midnight of June 23). He has left a crater in my heart. Sincerely, Ethel" Bill Kurtz's letter to Bill Erdman: Dear Bill: Sorry it has taken me so long to get this letter to you, but I work slowly. Plus my typing is poor due to my right side which was affected by a severe stroke in 1993 and has never corrected itself. I hope that I wrote your home address correctly, or this letter will come beck to me eventually. What happened to me after high school: 1.) Applied to Pitt, got in by the skin of my teeth, but made it thru in four years; graduated with a Bachelor of Business Administration. 2.) The same year I graduated I asked to be drafted; went into the Army, spent two years ‑ primarily in Baltimore, Md., Holibird (Fort) A tiny enclave of CIC training school for Army intelligence people who primarily went after AWOLs. 3.) Ended up working in the dispensary until my discharge. 4.) Went home to work with my Father in his business. Which in 1962 we (my father and I) had to find another product line to support two families. (Ethel and I got married in 1956) Ethel studied dietician at Carnegie Tech and she took a job with Interstate United food service. And worked at U.S. Steel for 27 years in the executive dining room ‑ Irvin Works. 5.) Our new product line: Medical Gases & related equipment. We were the only ones to offer medical oxygen and treatment equipment and lab gases and deliver, set‑up. But it wasn't until Medicare came into play that that business took off like a rocket. 6.) In 1981 we were approached to sell the business. I really did not want to sell; neither did my Father; but the offering company persisted with an offer you can't refuse plus a working agreement for me and my Dad. My Father died 6 mos later. What a messy letter, I apologize. I had a sister who never married and worked at Children's Hospital ‑ and Allegheny General as a clinical pediatric psychologist (Spelling). Died in 1997. Thats it ‑ Thats all: Sincerely, Bill June 14, 2008: Talked to Bill today. He received a BA from Pitt, spent 2 years in Medical Dispersements with the Army and upon discharge went to work with his father in Pittsburgh. Heavy competition forced him into another line of work selling medical gases and equipment to the elderly population. Finally bought out by Las Angeles firm and worked for them for 4 years. In 1986 he and his wife, Ethel, moved to Naples, Florida. He bought 1/2 interest in a Cremation Society business. Ran this until he sold it and retired. Health wise he has had a rough time of it. A stroke, right hip replacement, right knee crack and 3 heart attacks have left him leaning to him right. Otherwise he is doing reasonably well. Bill said he would send pictures and more information soon. From Bill Erdman, WebMaster: This is a very sad project for me this evening. If you follow the events above you know I called Bill on the 14th and asked him to send me some information about his journey from MtL to now. He wrote the letter 8 days later and died midnight the following day. Now just 2 weeks after hearing him on the phone I must transfer his picture and stuff to the deceased page. I called Ethel this evening and talked briefly about how I remember Bill from high school - Quiet and friendly and easy going. Bill was a joy to be around. May he sing with the angels. Bill, June 30, 2008
Orchestra 55th Reunion Ruth and Lou ,we haven't heard from you for 15 years! Our cutoff date for those "Lost / Gone" is 15 years, otherwise we would show 80%+ classmates still alive and that is not statistically possible. We would love to hear from you and would be very happy to move you guys back to the "Active" list. Bill <>< - January 2018 February 2003: Thanks for the information about the class web site. It’s hard to believe it will soon be 55 years since leaving high school. It’s sometime even harder for me too believe I’m still around. Lou and I are looking forward to the upcoming reunion, although, I doubt that we’ll recognize many others there. As for my (our) activity over these years, I would have to say the most significant thing I have done is to have married my high school sweetheart (Lou Hazel, also class of 48 and also declared deceased in 2018) in 1952 and in bringing up three outstanding young sons. During this time, he spent twenty-one years in the military (both stateside and overseas) and an additional nineteen years as a civilian with the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Several years prior to our retirement, we started building a home on the water in Reedville, VA. In 1991, we sold our home in Fairfax, VA and moved here permanently. Health permitting, we still enjoy fishing and sailing on the Chesapeake Bay. Ruth
"Lost" - No information about Bob since graduation (70 years). Reluctantly assumed deceased
"Lost" - No information about Don since graduation (70 years). Reluctantly assumed deceased
Information found by Tom Arganbeight (deceased), May 2008: Jim Lastaukas died May 1963.
Chorus, Highest Honor Roll, Home Room Secretary, Log Typist 7th grade Gretel Braun Barnes (deceased) writes in March of 2003: Your web site is great, but I still can't find Carolyn Lay Davis. I saw her in Cincinnati, Ohio around 1986. Jeff Davis, her husband (class of 1947) died at the age of 52 On People Search I got Carolyn Lay Davis in Cincinnati where she was seen in 1986 but her husband Jeff Davis had died. Listed as relatives was Kimberly Davis Carnahan, age 51, assumed to be her daughter and below is listing for her and husband. I then found on SS Death Index a listing for Carolyn L. Davis, born 11/29/30 and died 4/8/93 in Cincinnati, OH. I say this is she and can be moved to deceased. Tom (deceased) -May 2008 From Bill Erdman, WebMaster: A special lady in my life. In 1942, I had my first date with a girl! Carolyn Lay! We were in Markham Elementary School together. I asked her to a Saturday Matinee at the movies but my good friend, Bunky Wilder, had asked her also and rather than goof up a friendship she agreed to go with both of us. We went to her house together, all 3 rode on the Jitney Bus to town, sat on either side of Carolyn, shared the same bag of popcorn, took her home, and Bunky and I walked home together and discussed the date. Conclusion? Both of us thought the idea of dating was highly overrated! Sad to say that I lost track of Carolyn after high school and even more sad, I lost track of Bunky when we graduated to Junior High School. That year I lost track of Bunky, Carver Kennedy and Georgie Bowers - 3 good friends that probably would have made a difference in the person I am today had we gone through high school together. What a thought! Carolyn, Bunky, Carver, Georgie - I miss knowing about your lives! Bill, May 2008
Bulletin Board Squad, Chorus, GAA, Orchestra, Scenery Squad, Triple Trio Have not heard from Joanne since the 1958 reunion (60 years). Reluctantly assumed deceased From 1958 Reunion Newsletter: JOANNE LEWIS Blanchard. Children: David 3, Debbie 2, Robbie 1. 9 Rockville Ave., Lexington 73, Mass.
I just wanted to let you know that my mother passed away so you can update your records. Many thanks, Kally Mavromatis August, 2007 - Hi Bill! I was looking for something in my Mom's files, and look what I found: The Mt. Lebanon HS Class of 1948 high school graduation program! (My mom kept *everything*.) I thought you might like to share it with the others, so I scanned it and created a PDF document. I really enjoyed looking through it, although I am curious: What was W.M.T.L.? And the presentation; were those skits? (Yes) Songs? (No) I would love to hear! Also looking through, it appears as though the following people signed my mom's program:
Hope all is well, and look forward to hearing from you! Kally Mavromatis (Regina Liadis' daughter) Dear Mr. Erdman, (Written by daughter, Kally, in June 2005 I saw that you updated your "Gone...but not forgotten" page with the news of my mother's passing. Thank you. I also read with interest that the news came after a discussion on death. I thought you might find it interesting to know how my mom died. She had been diagnosed with diabetes for many years, and, because she was headstrong and stubborn (and how fun it was to read that you considered her "quiet!") she continued to live her life on her terms. Eventually her kidney function dwindled and she suffered a simultaneous heart attack and stroke. She finally agreed to "give dialysis a try," after steadfastly refusing to acknowledge that she would need it. This was in June. By November, she knew that she hated living this way. She was also aware that her condition had become tenuous; the doctors had given her a "poor" diagnosis and felt that the end could come at any time. And so, typically Regina!, she decided that after her birthday in February she would discontinue the dialysis, and I would take her home to die. My mother was not afraid of death. For her, it would be a chance to be reunited with my father (who had passed away 15 years earlier), her parents and other beloved relatives. Even more, she felt that she had lived life to the fullest -- had traveled extensively, had had an engaging, rewarding career, a good husband, and a good daughter (well, I tried!). If she was going to die then it would be on *her* terms -- just as she had lived. For the three weeks she was home, friends and relatives came to say their goodbyes. And when the end came, my aunt and I were there, holding her hand. It was peaceful and, even more important, there was nothing that went unsaid -- or undone. The wonderful people of hospice were so kind -- they are truly our "unsung heroes." The one thing that sticks in my mind to this day is something one of the nurses told me. She said that she had been present when so many people had passed, that she knew that we don't "die" -- that our "souls," or our "lifeforce" continues on; that it simply leaves this world of consciousness for another. I can only hope she's right. But what I do know is that, in teaching me how to die, my mother taught me how to live. As a postscript, if anyone is interested, for 22 years my mother worked at the Summit County (Akron, OH) Department of Human Services. As a social worker, she was involved in many different types of areas, from working with abused children to the abused elderly to starting the state's pilot program for SSI. She was a crusader, and she loved it. She loved to take on whomever and whatever stood in the way of helping others. She *adored* opera, her home and people -- my mom could talk to anyone, anywhere. (And did.) My father was Food Service Director at the University of Akron for 23 years; he died 3 months after he retired. Fortunately, the two of them were not the types to wait to do things "after retirement;" travel was a constant for us, whether it be the drive to California we took in 1972, or the weekends in New York, Boston, Chicago, Philadelphia, Washington D.C., etc., or to Europe -- my parents took me everywhere to experience as much as possible. It was great. I am an only child, and work for myself as a freelance writer / reporter in Akron. Sadly, although she always wanted to be a grandmother, she had to content herself with a grandkitty. I hope this isn't too long! Again, thank you for the kind words and interesting thoughts about my mom. Sincerely, Kally Mavromatis From Bill Erdman, WebMaster: I still teach youth classes at church and today we threw my lesson plan away and I talked with a teenage girl about her fear of death and the mind boggling prospects of "nothing, forever" if you had no belief in a Creator. Either there is a God or there isn't - no middle ground. The "infinite nothingness of life without hope" is a scary thing for her. I admitted to her that you can be 73 and still have these same thoughts occasionally. Without belief, this life can be a scary place. For where I am in this context, see my page. To me it is interesting that I received this note from Regina's daughter, Kally, just after I returned from my youth class on death. Again I am paying the price for keeping this web site up. I have gotten to know my classmates much differently than I ever imagined. I find myself touched by everyone I went to school with in different ways - from a casual, "I wonder what he / she is doing now." To a typical, "I wish I knew more about so-and-so and what he / she is like today." To a heart-breaking, "I wish I had a chance to tell Regina that I remember her from high school and I remember that she was quiet, friendly and pleasant to talk with." How sad that all I can add to her page is her daughter's note and a reminisce from me. To Regina, I can only say, "I wonder what you were like the past several years. I wish I knew more about you. I remember you from high school - you were quiet, friendly and pleasant to talk to." Bill, May 2004
"Lost" - No information about Marian since graduation (70 years). Reluctantly assumed deceased
Baseball, Football, Hi-Y, Home Room Basketball, Tennis Have not heard from Art since the 1958 reunion (60 years). Reluctantly assumed deceased From 1958 Reunion Newsletter: ART LONG. Per Bill Lurty: Art is a jet pilot and went to Bucknell. No dog.
Honor Award Committee, Home Room Secretary, Mounty Co-Editor, Quill & Scroll, Traffic Squad, Y-Teens President Last heard about Sylvia sometime in 1998, 20 years ago, so reluctantly assume she is deceased Note from Marilyn Springer Harrison Hi.. ran into Connie Lopez.. older sister of Sylvia Lopez.. got her address.. Sylvia Lopez Paton, 134 Rosetree Lane, Exton, PA 19341, phone 610 594 8651. Connie said Sylvia has retired from working as a social worker for the state a few years ago. She is now working part-time for a woman's program. She also has been widowed twice, once in 1970 and again in 1982. So there you go - another 1948er is found. Most I could find out. Keep up the good work as our electronic historian. Marilyn, Circa 1999
From
1958 Reunion Newsletter:
SYLVIA LOPEZ Paton. Per
Ruth Osborne Rouleau., Sylvia
has 3 children. 152 Shabbona Dr., Park Forest., Illinois.
Before time began? Baseball, Football, Hi-Y, Honor Roll, Home Room Basketball, Home Room President From Paul Rhodes (deceased), June 2006, Looking through the news it looks like you missed Dave Lucas' death in Oct of 2004. He had been ill for over three years. From Paul Rhodes (deceased), November 2003: You may not know but Dave Lucas has a rare disease, but his outlook is better than my wife Martha. Paul From Bill Erdman, WebMaster: I will always remember Dave as a gentleman in HS. He was always pleasant and usually had a kind word for everyone. His sad news hit me about the same time Charles Enlind wrote to me about his wife, Pat - while on a trip out West. I've had time to absorb the news and am more objective than I usually am when I have to move a classmate from his / her live page to the "Gone" page. Those are emotional times and is a very tough thing to do. This in no way diminishes the sadness I have for not knowing the classmates and their spouses more personally. Again I wish all that read this would do two things for themselves and those they love: 1) Tell them that you love them - NOW! 2) Send me an e-mail and update your page so we know you a little better. Bill, June 2006
Band, Football
Ellie Lund wrote me a short note: “Bill, I am not sure if you knew that Bob passed away on Feb 7, 2021." October 2022.
Mitzie Fantl
writes:
I hear from Bob Lund on
occasion and when I move I will live closer to Ellie
and Bob
and we are going to meet for
dinner. Mitzie Mitzie Fantl writes January 2011 - Bob Lund stopped in for a visit a few months ago as he still calls on customers in the area, he says he may retire soon!! Bob looks wonderful, he and wife Ellie live about an hour from here. From 1958 Reunion Newsletter: BOB LUND. Per Bill Lurty: Bob went to Case Institute in Cleveland for his Engr. Degree. He is Eastern United States Representative for an Industrial Engr. firm. Bob is married and has a boy, a girl and a dog named Spook (son of Bill Lurty's dog Suzy). 50 Lakeside Ave., Devon, Pa. Gordon Lunsford Have not heard from Gordon 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. Last Revision: October 12, 2022 |
Edwin
S 
RUTH
BUCKLEY
BERNICE
C. 
R.
Grant 
SHIRLEY
ANNA
LOU
Harriet
Card 
PATRICIA
Robert
Higgins 
DR.
JOSEPH
Jeanne
Bela
A. 
NANCY
JOYCE
Richard
Herbert 
LOIS
M.
STEPHEN
CORINNE
Henry
W. (Bill)
RUTH
L.
Robert
Donald
Donald 
James 
Carolyn
Jane
JOANNE
Regina 
Marian
Howat 
ARTHUR
H.
SYLVIA
MARIE
David
M.
ROBERT
P.
