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It would be nice to have some personal memories written about our Classmates who are no longer with us. Please email us and we will post your responses next to their pictures. |
John Adamski In 1962, John Adamski and I were Marine Aviation Cadets (MCAS) in Pensacola, then Southern CA. John, a 2nd Lieutenant, was flying C-130s. He, Gus (a close friend), and I rented a house near the beach in Newport Beach. John lived the good life and was quite a lady's man. In 1965, John, Gus and I were all assigned to the same air station in Iwakuni, Japan. John flew all over the SE Pacific with plenty of time in Viet Nam. He returned to California in 1965, and joined Continental Air Lines. In June 1966, John and five other Marines performed the sword arch ceremony at our wedding. Soon, John was flying as captain, and the good life continued. Around 1975, he married Lorraine, then a Continental flight attendant. I am not aware of any children. Approximately ten years later, John developed a virulent strain of lung cancer and passed away shortly after. John stoically accepted his fate, and planned his funeral services. Bill Burg |
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Arden Apted Arden Roy Apted born July 25 1940 in Wenatchee Washington, died October 19th 2003 in Seattle. He was born to Harold Francis Apted and Ruth Mae Inglis Apted. Graduated Roosevelt High School in 1958, later attended Wenatchee Valley College and Western Washington University. Retired from Nordstroms in 1991, after 30 years. Arden and his wife Linda, made annual trips to the Baja where they started a church that ministered to snowbirds, and the people of Mexico. He was a charter member of the Washington Cathedral, youth soccer pioneer, ventriloquist, Bible School teacher, painter, golfer, baseball fan, father and devoted husband. He is survived by his wife Linda Rohlman Apted of Marysville, son Christopher, daughter in law Karol, grandchildren Samantha and Ian of Liberty Lake, and by his son Randall of Bellevue. He is also survived by a sister Marilyn Perkins of Athens GA, two uncles, eleven nephews, nine nieces many cousins and even more friends. Randall Apted _______________________________________________________________ Jack Waterworth told me about Arden Apted passing away. That brought great memories from Maple Leaf grade school. Arden and I were the two smallest boys in our class. We became good friends but lost contact after going to different Jr Highs. I can see now from Ardens BIO that he grew to be a very wonderful man with all his family, church and community work. Bob Campbell |
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David Ault Dave Ault was in the Men's Discussion Group at my church, where they get to know each other quite well. Keith in that group said, “Dave believed strongly in learning, in fundamental human dignity, and in the value of service to others. He demonstrated his beliefs in the way he lived his life.” He said Dave had a caring spirit, was committed to the principle of human equality, and was a fervent advocate for his beliefs. He had a good sense of humor. He loved music and genealogy and had a successful professional life with his Ph.D. in computer science. Emmy Dingwall Easton |
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John Backstrom What do you say? John Backstrom was a CHARACTER! What a fun guy to Know. He spent a large part of his life helping others. He had a lot of hills to climb but would just keep going and going. I got to see John a lot over the last 15 years and always enjoyed his company. I will miss him. Bob Campbell ________________________________________________________________ Margaret and I had been talking for so many months regarding the reunion and how much fun it was going to be. John was so excited about it and his enthusiasm was contagious. We were so looking forward to spending more time with him. Over the years he had visited us in Florida several times and we had stayed with him in Magnolia and Redmond. He actually saved my life in Oct. 1984. He introduced me to a new way of life...without alcohol! He had just celebrated his 25th year in AA on March 28, 2008....the same day I was born....March 28, 1940! All those who knew him loved him and we will forever have fond memories of his great sense of humor, his love of life and family, and his enduring optimism! Ted Streukens ________________________________________________________________ John was a well loved single parent and grandfather. He raised 3 kids, then worked with 2 of them in business. One daughter-in-law said John was “one of the kindest, most mild tempered and generous men you'd ever have the privilege of knowing.” He died July 7, 2008 of cancer. |
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Bert Balch Bert lived up on the hill and we used to walk home from school together sometimes. He tried so hard, and I liked him a lot because he tried. I was very happy to see him at the last reunion. There he was, enjoying life! But now he has passed away ... All of us who knew and liked Bert will miss him very much. Emily Vargas-Baron __________________________________________________________________ I first met Bert in 7th grade at Nathan Eckstein Jr. High, and we immediately became best friends all through High School. We both had Model "T" Ford cars in the 7th grade, and we drove them all around our neighborhoods. Bert's father, Albert Balch, was a prominent builder, and owned a lot of property (a former Navy housing project) in the View Ridge area, and we kept our cars there. Bert and I ended up owning and driving and buying and selling a lot of old cars during high school when old cars were not "cool" and girls did not like them. Sometime after High School, Bert opened up a locksmith business in the Wedgewood area (he was always good at picking locks in High School). He was also interested in electronics, and bought one of the first computers that I had ever seen. Bert had never married, but lived with a girl friend in the north end of Seattle for many years. During college I opened up an auto parts business on Roosevelt Way and then in Woodinville, and Bert would come by occasionally and we would keep in touch. Terry Jarvis |
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Sharron’s activities at RHS included Ski Club, Jr-Sr Party, Girls’ Usher Corps and Revue Costume Committee. She died in Bellingham in 2005, of cancer. She raised 4 children (her son predeceased her) and then was active in her grandsons’ lives, attending all their events. Sharron held a variety of positions representing the elderly and disabled. She was past-president of Skagit Valley Chamber of Commerce, and a member of the Soroptimists. |
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Bob Brandon He died unexpectedly in June 2006. He graduated from the Univ. of Washington then served in the navy. He got a master’s degree from California State, and a Ph.D. in mathematics from Colorado State Univ. He taught at the Univ. of Maine and Eastern Oregon University. He retired in 2002. He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed backpacking, hiking, bicycling, skiing, canoeing, and golfing. He ran several northwest races as well as the Boston Marathon. He climbed Mt. Rainier and canoed down the Moisie River in Labrador. From the Eastern Oregon University website. _______________________________________________________________ Bob and I became good friends while in the 6th grade at Fairview. We enjoyed playing basketball, baseball, golf and other sports together with Lanny Hobart, Mike Martin, Joe McClellan and George Nostrant during our years at John Marshall Jr. Hi. Leisurely summer days were spent swimming at Green Lake, bike riding and doing lots of other fun stuff together. Bob was a great friend, I will always treasure the memories of our times together. Jim Wickersham |
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Kathy Carlin had everything. She was so sweet, so cute, so bright...and also very vulnerable. The strict and often hypocritical mores of those times were sadly opposed to her warm and giving nature. I last saw her when my ship stopped in Los Angeles, en route to Europe, I970. From what I have heard, her life never evolved into a family or a passion worthy of her enormous potential. I hope I'm wrong, and if not, what a terrible injustice! I confess total inadequacy in letting that happen to such a dear friend. Linda McLean (de Nazelle) |
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Larry Carlson Larry lived right across from me on 5th NE. I met him in the 5th grade at Green Lake. There were 3 Larrys in our class (including Lannoye) and we all lived on the same street. Larry Carlson, Bill Gruber and I were the shortest guys in our class. In school, Larry was always very well dressed and a good athlete (I was just a farm boy ). He was quick-witted, intelligent and always fun to be around. He joined the Marine Corps after I joined the Navy. We worked together at Todd Shipyard, and though I stayed in the Navy, we hung around together for years and years and were close to the very end. Semper Fi Larry. I miss you. Larry Silverthorn |
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Michael Carp Mike and I became friends in the fourth grade at Bryant. We became closer through after-school sports and boy scouts. Later we took several road trips and camping excursions into the high cascades. Carp was always dependable. He was the one who remembered to bring things like matches and a hatchet…the rest of us were pretty much flakes. After our school years, we were relocated in separate directions around the country. We managed to get together at least once a year. Thanksgiving in Connecticut, the Army/Navy game in Philly and a really fun wedding in Reno stand out in my mind. Mike was a loyal friend and generous in every way. He died too young at age fifty. Gary Wilson |
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Gary Coble Gary and I became friends during our high school days at Roosevelt. We ran around together during those years doing all kinds of things, including camping out. The ultimate camping trip we did together was a 98 day camping trip throughout Europe during the summer between our Junior and Senior years in college. We took off from Seattle, spent a few days in New York City and then boarded an older French liner, the ill de France. We spent the next 6 days in the lowest area of the ship and finally arrived at Le Havre, France. We spent a few days camping outside of Paris and then we trained into Berlin (the Berlin wall was being build at the time). We spent a few days there and then picked up a VW and started off on our trip. We had a life time of fun and experiences camping and getting to know people from all over the world. While in Italy we ran into Paula Paup from our Roosevelt class. She was on an exchange program from Stanford. One of our fondest memories was visiting Richard Lawson in Bad Kreuznach (BK), Germany. Rich was in the 8th Airborne in BK at the time. We hooked up with Rich and his buddies who proceeded to show us a great time around the area; as only the American service guys can show you! For years after that trip, every time Gary and I would get together we never failed to reminisce about that wonderful time we had together in Europe. We could have written a book on all of our experiences and it gave me the travel bug that has continued throughout the rest of my life. Gary was a wonderful friend and travel companion. Steve Grey |
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Carol Coyne Frasier Saunders Carol Coyne Frasier Saunders died February 13, 2003 and it is still difficult to explain how much her family and friends miss her. Carol and I met each other at Eckstein Jr. Hi. but became close friends in the 80’s when many Roosevelt women would get together for mini reunions and invite “mystery guests” who were Roosevelt grads here for visits or vacations. We supported each other as we ventured from single parenting to second marriages and the pursuit of that perfect golf game. She had five holes in one and was a terrific player. Carol typified the statement “old friends are the best” loyal, dependable, honest and a wonderful sense of humor! Pam Frieze Cobb ___________________________________________________________________ Carol passed away in her home on February 13, 2003 after a short illness with lung cancer. Carol married Walt Frasier (RHS class of 56) in 1962 and began her career as mother and homemaker. She and Walt had three children (Pam, Steve, and Gail) and raised them at first in Seattle and later in Huntington Beach, CA where they moved in 1964. A year after Walt’s death in 1979 Carol brought her children back to Seattle. In 1984 she re-met a former classmate, Rob Saunders (RHS class of 56) and they were married in April, 1985 and made their home in Seattle. In 1980 Carol took up golf in earnest and the game grew to be a passion of hers. Carol’s grandchildren (Erlan and Wyatt) are now here and she would have been a proud, doting grandmother. Her family and friends all miss her very much. Sharon Flournoy Coyne |
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Lois Daily Utter In our junior year, Lois sat behind me in Mr. Mauermann's English class. What a delight she was! She brightened an otherwise dreary course for me. We engaged in a lot of playful teasing, and being seated right behind me, she had the advantage. I have always had fond memories of her. David Barnette Lois died in Seattle in 2003 |
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David Davies Died in Vietnam April 1966. Information about David can be found at The Vietnam Veteran’s Memorial website…TheWall-USA.com. In the section of the website titled messages, I paraphrased the message written by fellow Roosevelt alum, John NePage. I also incorporated information extracted from a fellow officer who was one of the few who last saw David alive. “A friend I will not forget---Dave and I were in school together from the 6th grade through high school. We served in Vietnam at the same time, he in the Army, I was in the USAF. He was billeted at the Hotel Victoria in downtown Saigon, a hotel that the US had taken over for housing. He was asleep in his hotel room when a grenade/bomb blew up in the room next to his. He died a few days later in the hospital of severe head wounds. Dave gave his life to keep America free.” Carolyn Wilson _______________________________________________________________ I went through ROTC at the UofW with Dave. He died just days before he was about to come home from Viet Nam. Like many in our class who went to Viet Nam and were killed, Dave never was able to fulfill his potential. Lloyd Hara |
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Michael Dudley Mike and I got to know each other our senior year at RHS when he was trying to teach me to play the guitar. I visited Mike when I was at Dartmouth and he was at MIT before he transferred back to the UW. Later, while we were both living in Texas, Mike visited me and helped me catch up on several classmates. I will always remember Mike's friendliness and sense of humor, his intelligence and his many talents. John Walkup |
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Katie Eaden Hales This Spring I was going through some old pictures and ran across a picture of two children from 1973. Their names were Sarah and Burke Hales. Their mother was Katie Eaden Hales. I was anticipating our reunion this summer as I had lost touch with Katie and I wanted to recall with her the many fun times we had giggling our way through Nathan Eckstein. I was devastated one morning when I opened up the paper and her beautiful face was smiling at me from the obituary pages. Nancy Oldenburg Cordry _______________________________________________________________ Katie Eaden Hales was an amazing woman, a wonderful friend. She was witty and fun, adventuresome, mischievous and wise. She had that quick, quirky, sense of humor that seems to be the special province of the very intelligent. She had a way of seeing things others did not, and she invariably laughed uproariously at her own jokes. After leaving Roosevelt she attended Stanford University. (We were all so impressed)! But it wasn't long after meeting the love of her life, Jake, that she migrated north to the UW so they could be closer. They were married right after she graduated in December 1961. As the two of them traveled to pursue his post graduate degrees, she taught English to inner-city high school students in Cincinnati, then junior high English in South Lyon, Michigan, and finally Kindergarten in Kennewick. She later returned to UW to earn a master's degree in Library Science. She enjoyed her stint as overseer of the library program in two schools, but it was her next career move that brought her the most satisfaction. As anyone who has been associated with elementary school education can attest, it is the principal who sets the tone for the entire school. And this was Katie's next position. Here at last her gifts of administration, teaching and communication, her love of learning, enthusiasm and ability to inspire were fully utilized. No doubt Katie would have been hugely successful at any career she chose, but here she found her passion. She worked tirelessly to inspire teachers and kids alike to love learning, to get excited about the world around them, to challenge themselves, explore, imagine, create. As her daughter Sarah said, "She put in the 80 hour week before the 60 hour week was even fashionable." Aside from her professional work, she served as an adjunct for WSU as well as a loyal volunteer for the Safe Harbor Crisis Nursery. She was a member of Delta Kappa Gamma and Women Investing Their Mad Money. And yet, she always had time for her family and many friends--especially her family! For Katie each family member from Jake right down to the youngest grandchild was positively the best, brightest, funniest, absolutely dearest person on planet Earth. To be her grandchild was to be the center of the universe. Although her time on this earth was far too short for all those who loved her, she epitomized a life well-lived. We miss you, Kate! Margaret Shaw Dasso ______________________________________________________________ "Katie Eaden was always kind to me, and loved to give me hugs... she had a wonderful smile." Joan Garlick Yant |
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Harold Ellis Harold and my older brother Tony were friends so he was around our house a lot. Harold and I and Pat Imbery took dancing classes together in grade school. I think Skip Getzendanner and Johnny Jacobi might have been there too. Anyway, Harold lived down the street on the way to Pat's house and I used to have to go by his house to see her...I thought he was the cutest! Specially when his Dad bought him the '57 Chevy! My mother and Harold's mother were dear friends which is how I know about him after school. He eventually became a successful podiatrist and he was married with one child. Dawn McNamara (Ward-Smith) ______________________________________________________________ Growing up Harold Ellis was my best friend. We met in the 5th grade at Maple Leaf Grade School. We did everything together from that point on--1st dates, snow skiing, water skiing, golf, tennis, basketball and baseball and so on. Two days after graduating from Roosevelt, Harold and I went into the Coast Guard with Jerry Franks and Tim Schlosser. Harold entered the UW in December of '58 and graduated in 1962. He went to school in San Francisco to study Podiatry and upon graduation married and had a son. He was a Podiatrist in the Seattle area until his untimely death in the mid 90's. Harold was bright and fun loving and a very loyal friend. Someone once said that the tragedy inherent in true, good and brave friends is that they have to leave us one day. I think that they are probably okay, while those of us who are left behind are not. I will always be grateful that I had a chance to meet Harold and to be his friend. John Jacobi ________________________________________________________________ I first met Harold at Jane Adams Junior High. I remember he was one of the cutest boys I'd ever seen. We were in the same algebra class together and because of so many absences, I fell behind. Harold knew I was struggling and offered to help me. He was kind then and always. We became very good friends, with a passing romance that we chose to keep on a friendship basis. He was a very good friend until I finished school in January of '58. I never saw him again, but I always remembered him with great fondness. Merle Stull McCann |
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George Fectzo Born March 3, 1940 Passed 10/6/92. George married Carol Lauria Feb 11, 1967. Had a son Darin and Carol was a widow with 2 daughters. Raised family in Orange, Ca. Gina Lauria ____________________________________________________________________ I met George in Jr. High. We were on the same football team for all 3 years. The teams were competitive and there was a great group of teammates and we had a lot of fun. George was an enthusiastic participant in both the football and the fun. Neither of us was big enough, or good enough, to play football at Roosevelt. George did stay with the game and was the quarterback of the winning intramural football team our senior year. Our sophomore year in high school George suggested that we go fishing at Lake Erie (up by Anacortes) on opening day. I had never been fishing before. George said not to worry, he would teach me everything he knew about fishing. It turns out that didn’t take long. I don’t remember that we caught any fish. I do remember that we had a great time. In researching for this, I saw one of the two “interests” that George listed in the Strenuous Life was fishing. Pete Lucas |
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Glenn Frederick I met Glenn when we started at Roosevelt as sophomores. It was obvious that Glenn was a talented academic and I can remember through my Roosevelt years trying to keep up with him in mathematics classes which of course I was never able to do. Glenn and I created a game where we would pitch a tennis ball to each other and, if we could hit it, we had a system for scoring hits, runs, etc. We played that game off and on until we both graduated from the UW in 1962. Our big problem was finding a tennis ball that would work the way we wanted it too. Glenn went on to receive a Master of International Affairs degree from Columbia University in 1966. He worked in Europe for Cummins Engine and Mobil Oil and became very interested in public policy and strategic planning. He was accepted at the Stanford Graduate School of Business to do special Ph.D work in Economics, Public Policy and Business in 1970. He went on to work in the Office of the Secretary, U.S. Dept. of Health, Education and Welfare and eventually ran as a candidate in Seattle-King County for the U.S. Congress in 1973-4 (obviously he didn’t win). He then became a consultant in strategic planning working with organizations in the U.S, Canada, and Europe. My last contact with Glenn was in 1983 or so when he was getting married again. He was very excited about that and also about getting some kids in the process. He was in New York at that time. Glenn was one of the most interesting and stimulating individuals I have met in my life although I am not sure I recognized it at the time. I regret very much losing touch with him in the mid-80’s and was very sad to find his name on the memoriam list as I was really looking forward to seeing him at the reunion. Mike Cordry _______________________________________________________________ SEE GLENN's BIOGRAPHY WRITTEN BY SEVERAL CLASSMATES POSTED ON THE MESSAGE BOARD (found on the left-side border) UNDER THE CATEGORY REMEMBRANCES |
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Sherry Gallant Sherry was interested in both art and music at Roosevelt. She listed her vocational choice as 'dental assistant.' Sherry was listed in the 1978 reunion book as having already passed away, so she died very young. |
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Nancy Gaylord Haworth I didn't get to know Nancy until high school as she'd gone to Marshall and I'd gone to Eckstein. She drew Marcia Miller and I into her circle of friends and years later when we'd all graduated from college and had families, Nancy would be the one to organize a get-together when someone was in town. She was a good and loyal friend. She got me interested in being a camp counselor and taught me to hike, chop wood and build a fire. Nancy majored in physical Education/Health at the UW. She married John Haworth (RHS class of '56) and they had three children (John, Roger and Kathy). She taught at Marshall and Garfield. Nancy died suddenly a short time after our 35th reunion. I do miss her. Carol Bell _______________________________________________________________ Nancy was a thoughtful, loyal friend to her high school pals. She was the hub that kept our group of friends in touch with each other as we moved around the country. Nancy taught Physical Education at Garfield High School. She loved her family especially her two children. She was a wonderful friend and we all miss her and wish she was here to celebrate our fifty years together. Judy Barnhart Blair |
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Sue Goulter Stuart Sue Goulter and I were best of friends in high school. Besides living in the same neighborhood, we served on the annual staff together for two years, and spent untold hours together when we weren’t in school. We were in each other’s weddings. Sue was exceptionally energetic and enthusiastic about everything, and at the same time, she was uncritical. I never heard her say an unkind word about anybody. She was a brilliant student, and enjoyed her years at Stanford and studying abroad in Germany. I will always deeply treasure our years together! Emmy Dingwall Easton ________________________________________________________________ I could hardly believe it when I saw Sue's name in the archives of Teddies who are no longer with us. I have many fond memories of Sue in high school of course, and was so glad the friendship continued over many years. In particular, when we were living in San Rafael, California in the early 70's, Sue and her then husband Dave Pistole and family would stop by and visit us on several occasions. They were such welcome guests! Sue was every bit as enthusiastic, delightful, intelligent and high spirited as she had always been. Rick May |
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Bill Gruber Bill Gruber and I became best buddies when I came to John Marshall in the eighth grade. Our relationship was somewhat irregular because Bill had to work to help support his mother and brother. Despite working long hours, Bill was a great student and after graduating from the UW in engineering he earned a PhD from Cal Tech. While he was a student, he and some friends started an engineering consulting company in Los Angeles where Bill was involved in the invention of the air bag sensor as well as many other high tech gadgets. He eventually sold the company to a big corporate conglomerate but continued to work as an engineer. Bill’s only child died in infancy and he shortly thereafter divorced. He spent the last twenty years of his life devoted to the love of his life, Lynn Drain. The couple befriended and took into their home numerous foster children as well as abandoned animals. His outreach program was actually pretty limitless. Bill died suddenly at age 50 while vacationing with Lynn in Mexico. It’s pretty easy to make new friends but it sure is hard to make old ones. Dick Baerg _______________________________________________________________ Bill and I grew up one block apart just south of Green Lake. We went to Green Lake Elementary, John Marshall and Roosevelt together. Bill was always the smartest guy in our class and many of us worked hard to try to do as well as he did. He used that intelligence along with his personality to have a very successful life and it is a big loss to lose him at such a young age. His house was very close to where Lee Folkins lived and I can still see the two of them walking together – a real Mutt and Jeff picture if there ever was one. Mike Cordry |
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Jim Handley Jim always reminded me of the character "T. J." in the comic strip "Luann." Full of mischief, a bit of a rascal, but always with good intentions. It was Jim's church group that hired my dance band for our debut gig at the long gone Wesley House in the U District. We knew maybe ten songs at the time, but he kept telling us how "smooth" we were and how much everyone enjoyed our music. What a great diplomat - or con artist. On one New Year's Eve, Jim, Joe Wesson and Del Ball all camped out on the floor of my basement bedroom. No complaints, we four bad boys had a terrific time staying up most of the night reading Playboy magazines and swigging coke. Pretty reckless behavior! Most especially, Jim was a loyal friend and I never heard him say a nasty word about anyone. Rick May |
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Kent Harmon Kent Harmon and I were good friends from Jr. High at Nathan Eckstein. His parents and mine were members of the same golf club in Kenmore and in addition to hanging out in the halls of Eckstein, we spent a lot of time at Inglewood playing the game we both loved. At Roosevelt we played on the golf team and most times rode to and from the different courses together. Two things which stand out in my mind about Kent were his fierce pride in his father, and his dry sense of humor which could cut to the bone. He also had a practical jokester side to him evidenced by a ritual we practiced when we played Jefferson Golf Course as part of the Roosevelt team. Jefferson was located close to a pie factory and after our golf match we would rush to the car and drive rapidly to buy at least one large pie. While stuffing our faces with pie we would drive to the nearest overpass and wait for our unsuspecting team mates. The remainder of the pies were deposited on the hoods, windshields and roofs of their cars. Boysenberry was the weapon of choice as I recall. Kent and I lost touch after high school, and I was deeply saddened to learn of his death. I know he will be with us in spirit on August 16th. Grace and peace, Jack Shriver ________________________________________________________________ After high school, Kent went to Central, the U of W and then graduated from SU with a degree in business. He worked as a stock broker for F.I. DuPont and Merrill Lynch. Kent and Janey Wrede had two sons during their 10 year marriage. Kent moved to southern California in 1975 where he lived with his second wife for 25 years. He was a lifelong Husky and LA Rams’ fan. He loved golf, cars and cooking. His sense of humor kept everyone around him laughing. He died when an aneurism in his brain burst, 5 years ago. Kent would have been an enthusiastic participant in our reunion and will be keeping an eye on us on the 16th! |
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Tom Heaphy I knew Tom only casually, but knew him to be a really nice fella. My strongest memory is in our mutually detested gym period, where Lou Hull made each of us do a rope climb all the way to the top. Tom was my gym partner and we were determined to do it. Tom made it first, of course, then held the rope and shouted encouragement as I tried. It took more than one gym period to do it, but when success finally came, Tom whacked me on the back in celebratory glee. Then just a week later he was gone. Rick May __________________________________________________________________ Tommy Heaphy was such a gentle soul, how sad it was to lose him at such a tender age. That was the first death of a friend in my life and I remember the funeral which hit me hard. Steve Straight ___________________________________________________________________ I have great memories of Tom Heaphy from elementary school because he sat behind me in 5th or 6th grade. He had a playful, almost detached view of the world and a great sense of humor. He was always teasing me - and probably others - and I really enjoyed knowing him. I was so sad when he died in a wilderness accident during high school. Emmy Dingwall Easton |
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Judy Ellen Hill For Judy
Emily Vargas-BarónStrawberry blond sweep of light and kindness Best friend of best friends Always generous and loving. Battling childhood diabetes A symbol of her inner strength: Few, if any, knew… With loving husband Michael Andrews, And after great effort, Judy gave birth to beloved David and Brian. On August 7, 1995 Judy received her parents’ welcoming embrace. We had so much, so much yet to share… As all of us feel about our most dearest, long-lost friends. |
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Doug Holms Douglas Holm lived a block away from me and he would come over to tinker with my old Chevy to get it running..a good mechanic and great guy who loved mechanical things. Doug passed away too young, in his 20's. Lloyd Hara |
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Jay Hornbeak Jay was vice president of the TR's service club, and was active in Boys Club activities. He and his wife lived in Bellevue, raised two sons, and then had a grandson. He owned Hornbeak Irrigation. He was very active in his community with various youth activities in early years, and with his country club, his dogs and fly fishing, later. He was surrounded by many friends. He died unexpectedly in September, 2002 in Bellevue. ______________________________________________________________ Jay Hornbeak was my date for my 16th birthday. My aunt knew his aunt and arranged a date a few weeks earlier. There was usually a group of us who went to his house house after the football games to swim in his heated pool. He was a nice guy and I was looking forward to seeing him again. Karen Johnson Tooley |
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Larry Huckabay |
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Karen Hummon Dennis Karen Hummon was an important friend of my "growing-up" years. She was one of my pals, along with Karen Claussen Timberlake, who also went to University Lutheran Church . Her dad was pastor of the church. When I married Don, our pastor was from that church. At one of the reunions, about 10 years ago, Karen and Judy Adams saved me a place at their table, really making me feel special. She was that kind of person. I was very sad at her passing. Nancy Walters DeTurk Pittenger ________________________________________________________________ I remember Karen in particular from Aristelle MacDonald's drama classes. She really loved the acting process and was completely involved in Senior Play and the Drama Festival. During one performance of "Harvey," as it happens to so many actors now and then, Karen went up on her lines. I was onstage alone with her, but never lost confidence she'd remember the words. I just started doing some general onstage business and in just a moment, without missing a beat (or the audience even aware of it), she got those lines going again, and turned her scene into a memorable performance. She told me later that this was a pretty tough way to do theatre, but was delighted that it turned out so well. Rick May ______________________________________________________________ I met Karen Hummon at Nathan Eckstein, Jr. High. She, Judy Dance & I became very good friends there, which continued on to RHS and for all three of us, for the rest of Karen's life. We all went to separate colleges and had separate careers but, always kept in touch (the old fashioned way - cards & letters. Karen was employed by Continental Airlines for many years and then as the secretary of her church for many more. Karen was the preacher's kid, daughter of Ed Hummon, Pastor of Univ. Lutheran Church. He and my dad were wonderful friends, as well. My husband & I stood with Karen and her groom, Ed Dennis ,as they were married by her dear dad. He had vowed he would eat a hamburger at her wedding reception instead of cake...and he did! Karen and her dad shared a devilishly charming sense of humor. Karen & Ed's only child was born just a few hours after our 3rd child was born, which gave Karen & I yet another close bond. Through the years, we kept track of our kids with many Mother-hood chit-chats...by 'snail mail', yet! We exchanged Christmas gifts, holiday cards, phone calls and visited one another whenever her family could get away from the San Francisco area to come up here or we could travel down there. We enjoyed our friendship until her passing. I was aware of her illness but, was caught off guard by how severe it was and how rapidly it took her from us. I feel sadness that she had known her only grandchild since her birth only a few short months before. I have tried to keep in touch with her family and believe her mom is still alive at over 100 years of age. I miss Karen's happy zest for life and her beautiful smile. She was a bright light in my life and a true long time friend in every way. I, along with so many others, miss her. It was an honor to know her. Judy (Adams) Thomas
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Pat Imbery Semrau Memory of Pat Imbery...Our memories go way back to 6th grade dancing class at St. Stephens Church...then on to our mixed JOG, Jr. Orthopedic Guild in Jr. High School...Pat was always doing something for the school...posters etc. When I returned from New York to relocate in Seattle, Pat helped me get a job with American Express, working on the Worlds Fair. She was always quietly there for me, and I miss her. Janet Getzendaner ________________________________________________________________ Pat and I became best friends when we met at Maple Leaf Elementary School in second grade. Needless to say we got into a lot of trouble. Our mothers wanted us to be separated in third grade, but our teacher told them that was not a good idea because we would be friends for life and we were. Pat and I were in Brownies and Girl Scouts together, our mothers were the leaders. We took Dancing lessons at St Stephen's Church with Janet Jennings, Harold Ellis and many other friends from the class of 58. The two of us shared many wonderful summer days during grade school on Puget Sound at Spee Bi Dah and Hermosa Beach. Pat and I didn't see each other much during college, but afterwards, she and her husband, Dale, were our very close friends, Todd and I shared many wonderful times with them. When I think of Pat, which is often, I will always remember her as my oldest best buddy and a wonderful friend. Sally (Dillon) Conover |
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Sue Patricia Ivanhoe Steinke Sue's family immigrated from Canada to Seattle in 1951. In her years at Roosevelt, she joined both Bulletin Board Committees (ASR and GC), and she worked on the "Teddy Echo" newsletter. She married Dean Steinke (who survived her) and they lived in Granite Falls. Dean stated that she loved living in the country. She died on September 10, 2003, from a long ordeal with breast cancer. |
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Coralie Jenson Conger Coralie was a caring, fun loving friend for fifty-plus years. She loved to sail and ski. Along with our husbands, we skied the resorts in Utah and Wyoming, and sailed the Northwest waters. She could be seen every weekend from Thanksgiving to April skiing at Snoqualmie pass. Coralie worked as an accountant and property manager for Bellevue Square and Carillon Point. Her granddaughter was the delight of her life. Coralie lost her valiant battle with cancer in 2004. She is greatly missed by family and friends. Fondly by Judy Barnhart Blair |
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Pete Johnson I first met Pete at Nathan Eckstein. At RHS we ran track together and I think we were in Chuck's Ducks at the same time. I believe someone told me that Pete had died while serving in Vietnam, but I may be mistaken. I always thought Pete was a lot of fun to be around, and he was an excellent athlete. John Walkup |
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Susan Keene Hardy Susan and I kept in touch off and on through the years. From visiting her at her rooming house in San Jose, to her home in Santa Monica, to coming full circle back to 36th N.E., no matter how long since we'd seen each other, we reconnected. One experience comes to mind. When the Hardy's were still living in So. Cal. we went one night to the Velvet Turtle, a now defunct restaurant chain. We were at the bar having an after dinner drink when the staff closed up and went home. We suddenly noticed we were left alone in the restaurant in semi-darkness and locked in. We laughed about it for years. Our last conversation was shortly after Susan had attended Carol Coyne's memorial service. At that time she expressed the hope that there would be no war in Iraq. About two weeks later I got the call from her daughter. Despite a myriad of health problems, Susan never lost her acerbic wit, her genuine hospitality and empathy. She would have loved going to the big Reunion. Paula (Paup) Meschwitz ________________________________________________________________ I have many, many memories just being with Susan during our formative years at Bryant, Nathan Eckstein, and Roosevelt. We had many adventures together: "wild" slumber parties; taking 2 hours to walk home from school each day; bus trips to a tiny record shop on East lake that allowed us to listen to "banned" 45's as long as we wanted; bus trips to Golden Gardens in the summers; selling Seafair Skipper pins all over downtown Seattle and then spending all of our salaries at the sales at Best Apparel; etc., etc., etc. After high school, we went our separate ways but I will always consider Susan as an essential part of my childhood and am greatly saddened with her passing. Nancy Oldenburg Cordry ______________________________________________________________ Susan Keene was probably the first girl my age I ever noticed. The year was 1941 and Susan and I were one year old. The Keene's bought our house on 36th N.E. ave. The next time I saw her was in the eighth grade. WOW was she cute and funny. I remember I had a crush on her. Bob Campbell |
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Martin Kohler Martin Kohler and I went to Whitman College together. He was charming, gentle, quiet, and brilliant. He became ill during our freshman year, and died before our sophomore year. It is so hard to believe that almost 49 years have passed, and I've thought about him often over the years. Emmy Dingwall Easton _______________________________________________________________ For Marty
We wonder why… Why such a kind, brilliant and good person is no longer here. Why he left his family. Why he left his friends who admired and loved him so. Taken from us by hidden forces. Taken so soon. Perhaps he is still there Swinging down 65th, Shyly trying to play his guitar… Emily Vargas-Barón _______________________________________________________________ I remember Martin Kohler who liked math and science and went off to Whitman College. I still remember our study group with Dick Stucky, Martin and myself to ace Mr. Stucky's calculus class. Lloyd Hara ______________________________________________________________ Martin was a great friend, highly intelligent, and a terrific athlete. Trying to beat him in tennis was, for me at least, a lost cause. I was away at college when told of his illness, and heartbroken when I heard he had died. I still think of Martin as one of my closest friends in our class. Martin's life reminds me that our lives don't have to be long to be significant. John Walkup |
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Bill Lauer Bill Lauer and I were married for 21 years and had 2 children, Randy, born 2/25/61 and died 2/22/08, and Tami, born 1/19/64. He worked at various jobs, including project engineer for Gordon Ball Construction Company, and we followed jobs to Gladstone,OR, Glenns Ferry, ID, Auburn, CA and Wenatchee, WA. We bought an orchard in Wenatchee and he worked also for the phone company. He suffered for several years with cancer and passed away on January 6, 2008 while living in Florida with his second wife, Lynn. Marlene (Synstad) Speidel |
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Russell (Sam) Lawson I first remember Sam,Russ or Rusty [take your pick] in Jr High. We were in shop when Russ got into a duel with another kid with torches. I don't know who won but Russ lost a good sweater. Another time Leroy Schenk and I had just got out of the Marine Corp when we ran into Russ and one of his army buddies. Russ was driving his Jag sedan and suggested we go downtown to the Kings? tavern for a few schooners or was that pitchers? We never quite made it back to the U-District that night. It couldn't have been the beer so it must of been those terrible Lucus headlights in the Jag. Coming off the University bridge missed the turn,jumped the curb and hit a utility box. Never trust those Lucus lights! Years later when Russ returned from the east coast he came out to see me to talk cars. He then moved to Index and called a few times. Now I wish I had seen more of him. Bob Campbell _______________________________________________________________ I remember Russ from Fulton’s art classes where he usually could be found seated in the front left side of class, and it was only when other students went over to his desk that they would see the beautiful drawings and paintings he created. He didn’t waste time visiting like the rest of us – instead was always completely focused on his current project. I was initially stunned to see someone my own age creating such mature work with such high quality, and as a result, found myself challenged and inspired to explore my own possibilities more deeply. He never knew he’d been the source of a turning point in my life (I ended up with a career as an artist and high school art teacher), and I suspect he inspired many other students in much the same way. Carolyn Wheeler ______________________________________________________________ Russ (and brother Richard) along with Jim Nordstrom and me, were inseparable playmates through all of junior high school and much of high school. "Playing" with Russ (a.k.a. Sam) consisted of wrestling, boxing (sometimes with gloves and sometimes without), diving off high towers, bridges or whatever dare devil activity he would find. I remember one day Sam saying, "Jim, you're going to love this! Bend over and take 10 deep breaths!" I did as instructed (better than boxing without gloves) and when I stood back up, Sam reached around my chest from behind and squeezed as hard as he could until I lost total consciousness and collapsed to the ground. Upon regaining consciousness, Sam enthusiastically said, "OK, its your turn to do it to me!" And, I did. Then there was his jumping out of cars phase. We would drive along Windermere Road and Sam would sit in the passenger seat looking for a patch of lawn to land on. We would start this exercise at 5 MPH, but, in to time he (NOT me) was jumping out of the car at 35 MPH !! For those of you whose memories of Russ are primarily from our high school days, most of what I have written would not surprise you. What you may not know about Russ is in the second half of his life he became a very accomplished artist. Russ also became a devotee to certain spiritual teachings in which he developed mastery and later became an elder teacher. It was inspiring at his Celebration of Life event to hear from the many people whose lives had been touched deeply by Russ. Russ lived his life with great adventure and zeal to his last breath. His final words to me and his beloved wife, Yvonne, were, "My bags are packed and I am ready to go." Jim Jensen |
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Gene Leonard Gene Leonard would be working diligently at the City of Seattle as an engineer and died too soon. When I was City Treasurer, Gene would stop by my office and chat about Roosevelt friends and how he was planning to retire after 30 years of public service. He always looked forward to the Roosevelt reunions. Lloyd Hara |
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Walt Martinsen |
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Joe McClellan Despite his slightly bad boy image and C student status at Roosevelt (where he didn't give me a second look), Joe became a dedicated scholar at the UW School of Business (where he finally had the good sense to ask me out). He graduated Phi Beta Kappa and Outstanding Student in Marketing. After working for Ford Motor Company for many years, he started a finance company and operated it successfully until his death. We planned to retire to our home at Wapato Point, Chelan. During his 40s, he became an avid runner, completing several marathons, and fitness buff. We traveled as much as time would allow, and had several post retirement trips planned . Even though he was in splendid good health, he somehow contracted bacterial meningitis in Hawaii during a March, 2002 trip, and died in three days. The trauma, unfairness and suddenness of his death is still stunning to me, our family and friends. We were married for 38 great years and raised three amazing children. Judy Ange McClellan ____________________________________________________________ Joe and I were Marketing Majors at the UW in 1962. We studied together on occasion. Joe was a very serious student and no one had grades to compare with his. Gerry Hackett |
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Linda McMann Linda is remembered as a kind and gentle friend. Many of us were in the Girls Gleeclub and Nonettes singing group with her at Nathan Eckstein and Roosevelt and played two pianos in concerts in the Roosevelt auditorium. Linda was a marvelous piano player transitioning through one key to the next if we needed to sing in a different key and all without music. She was an excellent student at Roosevelt and attended the University of Washington where she won a prestigious contest by Mademoiselle Magazine and was given a position as guest editor. After Linda married and had two children, she and her family moved to Amsterdam. Over the years, we heard how much she enjoyed living in Europe. Throughout her life, Linda was highly allergic to peanuts, which caused severe asthma attacks and eventually her death while living in Europe. We miss Linda, but the memories from our times at Roosevelt still bring much joy. Karen Claussen Timberlake, Barbara Giedt Fisk, Belinda Bailey Going |
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I was deeply saddened by Midge's passing. She was a fellow Teddy at RHS but, became a sorority sister, room mate & close, personal friend at Univ. of Puget Sound. She & her husband remained close friends & she is remembered with love, joy & many shared memories. I miss her very much. Judy (Adams) Thomas ________________________________________________________________ Midge lived across the street from me when we were growing up in Seattle but it wasn’t until 1973 when I returned to the northwest that our friendship began to grow. We met by accident in Tacoma on a field trip for our kindergartners and continued to see each other over the next twenty years. Midge was a hard worker and a loving mother and grandmother who is surely missed by many. Judy (May) Baerg |
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Lee Miller "I always remember Lee Miller saying she was going to Hawaii [but then she moved to Alaska]. I decided that someday I would be able to say that I was going to Hawaii, too, which I did ... even lived there for awhile. Lee had the prettiest hair and the cutest boyfriend." Joan Garlick Yant _____________________________________________________________ The most memorable thing Lee Miller and I did was to get kicked out of Spurs (honorary group for Senior Girls) because we left two days early from school to go to Laguna Beach for Spring Vacation with her parents - Oh, the good old 50s - take THAT for breaking the rules!
Lee went to the UW and later moved to Alaska where her husband, Andy Eker, joined her father and brother in the construction business. She was in Anchorage in the late 60s when that terrible Earthquake actually divided streets in half! After her children were raised she turned to art and then died much too early, as so many of these we are celebrating did.
Elizabeth Freeman Sjursen ____________________________________________________________________ Lee Miller was home for a visit in January of 1965, and so was Carolyn Snow. We joined Sandy Ray for Bridge one evening at Carolyn's mom's apartment building near the NE Branch Library, and lost all track of time. Mrs. Snow tapped on the door. "Did you girls know it started snowing hours ago and there're several inches on the ground?" We hurriedly left Carolyn and finally got Lee down to her folks' house in Laurelhurst (but when Sandy couldn't get up that last block of my 65th street hill, although by now it was 4 a.m., she walked all the way home up by Eckstein). Lee had called after the Good Friday earthquake. Although she'd been in her Anchorage home at the time, miraculously they'd only had a few cracked plates in the cupboard. She also called me on my birthday. She "hated to write." I loved Lee for her character and class, and Carolyn for her style and enthusiasm. Ginny Pearson (Smith) |
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John Morrison One of my favorite stories about John was when we were both in the Army stationed in separate areas near Frankfurt, Germany and we decided to get together one evening for some fun. Having a car, though quite small, I volunteered to drive. Julie and I drove to pick up John and seeing his quizzical look when he first laid eyes on my car was priceless. You could read his mind “How do I get into this thing”; John sat behind the front seats and getting into the back area was somewhat like watching a contortionist. It must have been quite a sight with the three of us cruising around Frankfurt in this miniature car with John, knees up around his ears and head squished up against the roof. What an evening of laughs and fond memories. Rich Lawson _______________________________________________________________ "Glory Morry" was his nickname--and he was probably the best athlete in our school (sorry Charlie)--only I don't believe athletics were a high priority for him. His love and enjoyment of life was his thing and at that he excelled! When I was 16 he "brokered" a deal between his brother, Jim, and myself--with me purchasing a '47 Ford--cherry red, white convertible top, dual pipes, lowered--the whole deal! Part of his "brokering" was that I was to give him a ride to school every morning (when the car was running). Boy, were we cool--top down--it could be 30-40 degrees in the winter--didn't matter--we were smooth cats! I learned from John that having fun in life is important and that being a good and caring friend is the best thing a person can give. John Jacobi |
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Jackie Neese Robblee For Jackie,
One day amongst the ferns, After building forts from rotting logs of pioneer relics in our ravine, I discovered Jackie lived on the other side. We shared dreams of future lives, Creating imaginary worlds. I regretted so moving away from Jackie and others. I had hoped to catch up with her one day… Her happy spirit remains with us all. Emily Vargas-Barón ______________________________________________________________
Jackie Neese and I were married right after her graduation from UW. We went to Thailand in 1963 for three years to serve as houseparents and teachers in schools for Missionary Children whose parents where working out in "the bush". We returned in 66 and had a baby boy -Tim, who now is director of Bands at WSU. Jackie died of chemical complications from child birth in 1968 and is greatly missed. She was a wonderful girl, wife and mother. Dave Robblee _______________________________________________________________ In Memory of Jackie Neese Robblee By Carolyn Roberts Niva Jackie and I were the best of friends from 7th grade until the time of her death. At Eckstein and Roosevelt we did Girl Scouts, Job Daughters, and school committees together. We did overnights, long phone conversations, cooking and sewing projects, and of course, competing for grades. But she always won with straight A’s. We joined University Presbyterian Church together while we were juniors in high school. When Jackie and Dave started dating, our families would seat the three of us on the same side of the table because we were all left-handed. During our four years at the UW, Jackie and I saw each other or talked daily – we even sat together at commencement in June 1962. In 1966 my husband John (Niva) and I traveled “low budget” around the world. Staying with Jackie and Dave in Chiang Mai, Thailand was one of our fondest memories. Jackie met us at the Bangkok airport and together we traveled 17 hours north by 2nd class train. The people in front of us had chickens in crates under their train seats – vendors sold “interesting food” through the train windows at each stop. We left Thailand a few days before Jackie and Dave because they had been invited to a farewell tea with the King and Queen of Thailand. We met up again in Agra, India and proceeded to travel together through Iran, the Middle East, and Italy. These are memories of a lifetime. I remember clearly the joy of Tim Robblee’s birth and then the anguish of Jackie’s illness in the months to follow. There are medical answers, but not spiritual answers why Jackie died so young. Jackie’s life ended in a tragic way, but that is not the end of the story. Three years later, Dave met Anne and have raised a beautiful family. We continue to be close friends. They were close to me during John’s illness and death. Just yesterday my oldest son, Brad, was talking with an employee of Six Robblee, Inc. and told him, “I grew up feeling that Dave Robblee was almost my uncle, our families did so many things together.” |
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Darlene Nienau Harrison Darlene and I became good friends when we started John Marshall Junior High School. She was bright and always kind. As a graduation present from Roosevelt, our parents let us take the bus to Los Angeles to spend spring break at Disneyland. We had great experiences together and arrived home safely. We were roommates at Whitworth College our freshman year and then came back to the University of Washington. Darlene and Dick Harrison dated at Roosevelt and got married when Darlene was in her sophomore year at the UW. I stayed in contact with Darlene until she died after a courageous battle with cancer. Darlene was a very strong Christian who was full of love and forgiveness for all. She especially loved her children and grandchildren and of course, her husband Dick and she spent quality time with them all. I was lucky to have a friend as good as Darlene. Judy (May) Baerg _______________________________________________________________ Darlene lived life to the fullest and enjoyed every single day. We used to pull our boat, car loaded with kids and dogs and go and spend vacations in Eastern Washington. Sometimes we just looked up and followed the sunshine. We would spend a week or two camping and then return. Darlene never complained about the mess left for her to clean up. She enjoyed life because she enjoyed doing for others. Darlene struggled with cancer for 8 1/2 years, even undergoing a very difficult stem cell transplant. She chose to spend her last days caring for and enjoying their eight grandchildren, being with their children and Dick. Her courage, selflessness and strength helped her life end peacefully in 1997. Dick Harrison _____________________________________________________________ When I think of high school, I also think of best friends. Darlene, Cherie Wilson, Loann Tratnik and Judy May considered ourselves best friends. Although over the years we didn't see each other much Darlene and I stayed in touch. I was very happy I got some visits in towards the end of life. She seemed so ready by then. I will miss her. Kathie Armstrong Coart _______________________________________________________________ I always thought of Darlene as a sprite – she was so light in her physical movements and the way she spoke. She was a pleasure to talk with, interested in many things. And she liked to keep in touch with high school friends. I’m sure she took great delight in her grandchildren. It doesn’t seem possible that such a lively spirit is gone. Sonja (Magnuson) Larson |
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Jim Nordstrom I remember that day a boy, the same age as my brother and I, moved onto our block, how great it was to finally have a playmate. Our afternoons, sometimes included sitting in Jim’s family room watching Don Winslow of the Coast Guard, Buck Rogers, and of course Howdy Doody. When not in front of the t.v. there was bike excursions, football and basketball. In the summer the mornings always started with trying to get Jim out of bed and of course we couldn’t start our busy day at the beach until he got his quota of Swedish pancakes. In high school there were those trips during Spring Break to California and Mexico with lots of body surfing and skin diving and those Mexican silver rings, for our girlfriends, which always turned their fingers green. So many fun memories... Rich Lawson ____________________________________________________________ Apart from my wife, Jeri, Jim was my closest friend from the sixth grade to the day he passed in April 1996. Jim was the ultimate "Great Guy". Nothing was more important to Jim than his family and friends. He was an incredibly loyal friend and ALWAYS available, if needed. Jim was also a very savvy businessman. His leadership and dedication to customer service (again loyalty) helped guide the Nordstrom chain to become a hallmark brand in customer service that has had great influence among other retailers across the country. Jim also became an aviation fanatic. He loved to fly and owned a float plane as well as a Citation II private jet. I have flown hundreds of hours in the cockpit in the right seat next to Jim while our wives, Sally and Jeri enjoyed the flight sipping chardonnay from the back. Jim had the greatest sense of humor. He was very funny, entertaining and just plain fun to be with. On our vacations together it would not be unusual to find Jim and me playing gin rummy for 8-12 hours a day. A lot of laughter, a few "Ah Shit's" and plenty of scotch and rum. He was a true Captain in every sense of the word. He is missed greatly, yet I feel so blessed and grateful to have been his friend. Jim Jensen _______________________________________________________________ Jim....high school shoe salesman, in UW classes playing odd/even matches, friend to presidents, never full of himself, just a great guy! Over the years we were able to visit each other a number of times....in Florida, Palm Desert, Seattle at the '93 reunion. We were looking forward to '98 and seeing Jim and Sally again....then the news of his passing changed our plans. He was a good father, husband to Sally, and friend to many...he is missed by us all. Ted Streukens |
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Allan Oakland Allan was in the army from 1959-1965. He served in Izmir, Turkey. Then he was an estimator for Anderson/Magruder Mechanical Contractors. "Allan enjoyed hunting and fishing, was a good family man, and spent a lot of time with his children and grandchildren" He retired in early January, 2000 and died seven months later. His home was in Kirkland. |
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Sherry Olson Chase Sherry Chase was a committed teacher with 32 years of service at Lynndale Elementary School. She influenced hundreds of children with her dedication and creativity. She received numerous awards and recognition. In 1970, she was awarded the Golden Acorn for her "service to children and youth". In 1987 she was nominated for the National PTA's Phoebe Apperson Hearst Outstanding Educator of the year award. In April 1991, she was chosen Edmonds Education Association Educator of the Month, and was elected Educator of the Year in June 1991. And in 1994, she was a School District Finalist for the Washington State Teacher of the Year Program. Sherry graduated from Whitman College in 1962. The Whitman Chapter of Kappa Alpha Theta has set up an annual award in her name to be presented to "one who reaches out when least expected, having the special ability to brighten our days with thoughtfulness and fun; seeking no recognition, only the pure pleasure of sharing a joke, a prank, a helping hand and unconditional friendship." Shirley Olson Dubendorf |
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Colleene Porter Klineberger Colleene in the early 60's married Chris Klineberger, a gentleman in the fur business, who traveled back and forth to Alaska. She traveled with him throughout the world during the years they were married, had one son, Kent. She lived a happy life until about 10 years ago when she passed away due to esophageal cancer. Gayla Trandum White |
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Marcia Pratt Marcia listed RHO, the girls' intramural program, as her main activity while at Roosevelt. She was interested in skating and was planning to enter the field of social service. |
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Saundra Ramsey Cooper Saundra was a charming and quiet presence in our class. She was active at RHS, serving on several committees, and she was president of JOG. She lived in Lynnwood. She was a widow, mother of four children, grandmother of six, and even a great grandmother! She died in December 2002. |
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Hugh Redford Hugh lived up the street from me. We both attended Bryant Elem. I remember his large farm style house on a big lot with trees across from Ravenna Park. (It's now condos). Hugh's mom was very friendly and his Dad taught English at the UW. Hugh was the oldest of three - brothers Steve and Myron. Carol Bell ________________________________________________________________ Hugh graduated from Yale Law School in 1965 and practiced law in San Francisco. He was a senior law partner in his firm and was really active in the SF legal community. He left many good friends when he died unexpectedly at age 32 in 1973. “With his bold and outgoing personality, he never hesitated to stride into the middle of anything that looked remotely interesting and if he could stir things up, he did - relishing every minute.” [Scott Barksdale, classmate and friend, Yale ‘62 obituaries] |
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Steve Richardson Steve and I were born one month apart and grew up together in the Laurelhurst area of Seattle. We went to school together from grade school through College at Linfield College in McMinnville, Oregon, just south of Portland. We were also fraternity brothers (Theta Chi) and for a couple of years roomed next to each other. Steve was a great guy and always a lot of fun. I remember one time while at college Steve was going to return his fathers Jaguar coup to Seattle after borrowing it for a few days. Steve asked if I wanted to ride home to Seattle with him and I said great. We left after midnight and headed north. Steve was a great driver and even when he was driving extremely fast you always felt safe. After getting on the road Steve settled in and we were cruising at close to 100 miles an hour. As we passed through the small town of Newburg, Oregon, at over 100 miles an hour, we were spotted by the police who finally caught up to us and pulled us over. There was no issuing of tickets or a lot of discussion by the policeman who pulled us over; he just said to follow him. We preceded to the Newburg court house where the judge greeted us, issued a ticket and a fine quite a bit greater than our speedometer reading. We settled up and were shortly on our way again. Typical of Steve, it was not too long after leaving the court house that we were once again cruising at over 100! Steve and I lost contact after college. He went to Navy flight school (which seemed appropriate based on his automobile driving record) and I went into the Coast Guard Officer Candidate program in Yorktown, Virginia. The next time I had contact with Steve was my last. I attended his funeral after he had crashed his plane in Vietnam, military records show he was 100 miles east of the DMZ. Seattle Times wrote that his plane crashed in the sea while trying to land on the carrier Ticonderoga; he was never found. He was a wonderful friend and we had a good time growing up together. He is missed. Steve Grey ________________________________________________________________ Steve was one of my oldest friends from kindergarten until he died. We kept in touch through college and he was an usher at my wedding August 19, 1962. Steve was one of the wittiest, funniest people I have ever known. He would come up with stuff off the wall. I remember driving down a rural road in his MG-TC when a large bug splattered on the windshield. Steve looked at me and said, "You know, it took guts to do that." I laugh at that one today. I miss him and finally got a rubbing of his name off of the Viet Nam Memorial Wall. Steve Straight |
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Harry Shaw Harry L Shaw passed away about 7 years ago. Harry "SAM" was married to Linda, class of 59, and they have three daughters. Chuck Parsons ________________________________________________________________ I was really saddened to see that Harry had passed on. I knew Harry all through high school as a good trombone player, and most importantly as a good pal to hang out with. Many good times on double dates, too. I'd go to his house quite often after school, and we'd listen to jazz records with Jordan Ruwe and other musicians. Harry was in the swing band, of course, and played in my band for quite some time. Then he struck out on his own and formed his own band. Good pals first and always, we did enjoy a friendly rivalry. A good guy and a funny guy too, with a sly sense of humor. Rick May |
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Don Sjostrom It is hard to believe that Don died over 40 years ago. After graduation from the U of W, he joined the Peace Corps where he served in Thailand for two years. Don was then recruited by the U.S. Agency for International Development where he worked with the hill tribes in northern Laos. He had been there for 15 months until he was killed by the Pathet Lao when they attacked and overran his village. In the mid sixties, when I was stationed in Hawaii with the Marine Corps, Don would stay with us for a few days when he was traveling between Southeast Asia and Seattle. Those visits with Don were great. We did a lot of body surfing and swimming. We also had a lot of laughs, drank some beer and talked about the "old days" at RHS. We caught up on news of our other classmates and talked about Don's activities in Laos. Those visits with Don are special memories and we are lucky to have them. Pete Lucas _______________________________________________________________ Don was a tall, smart, nice-looking fella in my senior newswriting class. He was rather reserved -- no goofing off. What I most remember about Don is that last name of his. I had never seen any spelling like that and I remember being somewhat astonished when I heard a teacher or student say "Shoo! strom..." Ah ha, so that's how you pronounce Sj... ! Marilyn Druby Anderson _______________________________________________________________ Don was "Sugarfoot" and I was "Jacudi Bowlingstad". In the 57/58 year we were co-sports editors of the RHS news. We wrote together what we thought were very clever columns and tried to include in each a risque double entendre about a RHS athlete--like Jim Jensen (easy to do)--Ken Dupar (not so easy). We thought they were very funny and only we highschool folks would get them. Well, not so! Even Cecil Bullock caught our stuff--and the reprimands were neither funny nor fair. Besides his creative writing style, I learned a lot from Don in the short time I knew him. He was a warm, gentle, funny and supportive guy who was as genuine as they come--no phony in him. He was definitely "Sugarfoot"! I miss him. John Jacobi _______________________________________________________________ Don was a great friend, a loving son and a brother to Jane, a patriot, and a humanitarian! I had transferred to Michigan State University in 1960 and was teaching in 1964 when Don came to Indiana for Peace Corps training. We were able to get together again and when he got to SE Asia and was in a teaching situation, we each had our classes correspond (sending packets of letters to each other which the kids loved)...a nice international exchange! Then came Jan. 6, 1966......I'll never forget him! Ted Streukens |
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Carolyn Smith I have a memory of Carolyn Smith. We were in a typing III class and she twisted her ankle when she tripped on a desk leg. She said that she couldn't walk on her foot to the nurse's office. So I said that I would help her to the nurse's office. As you remember the typing classes were on the third floor. When we got out of the class room and started down the stairs, she said that it really hurt bad. So I picked her up and carried her all the way to the nurse's office. Morrie Olsen |
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Judith Smyth I met Judy through Camp Fire. We were in the same group and occasionally went to her home. Judy's family owned Smyth Van and Storage and she use to joke about their slogan. (Smyth not Smith ) Judy was very active at Roosevelt. She was in Girls Club Cabinet, active on many committees, Revue Music Chairperson, active in the Usher Corps, Spades, and she was a Torch member, too. Carol Bell |
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Carolyn Snow Carolyn and I did not grow up together but we met at Roosevelt and became best of friends. We had E. Smith for English and Carolyn excelled in that class. Writing and poetry came so easy for her. She also had an artistic side which blossomed after she left high school. Carolyn & Lee Folkins were married just after high school and she asked me to be her maid of honor. They had three children and lived in Norman Oklahoma. Carolyn wanted everyone to know she was a "crazy hippie chick" who loved to help people. She co-founded the Firehouse Art Station in Norman Oklahoma, was the first female prison guard in the State of Oklahoma, started Institution Programs Inc. in the Oklahoma prison system, was a Poet and a Potter in Residence and co-founded American Kids, Inc. She wrote two children's books, "The Baseball Raccoon" and "The Cornflake Chicken." Her work has been published in various poetry and literary magazines. Carolyn had many gifts - all of which encompassed a caring for people. Her positive, genuine attitude made a difference in many lives and she will be missed by all who knew her. Carolyn died in December 2005 at her home in Branson, Missouri, following a brief battle with cancer. Peggy (Button) Kaastrup ______________________________________________________________ "I remember Carolyn Snow living close to me in grade school. She was so much taller than me ... we had a hard time walking together, my being so short." Joan Garlick Yant |
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Simon Stanway Simon was into intramural sports and O-Y at Roosevelt. His big interest was basketball. He passed away in January, 2007 after a courageous battle with cancer. He had a loving family and good friends who miss him. His courage was such that his caregiver said "He was a very smart, kind hearted and generous and a humorous man. We shared a lot of laughs together." |
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Dennis Tagas Dennis got married right out of high school when he was 19 to a girl from Holy Names Academy. He was married twice and has five daughters. After leaving the Armed Forces, he started his own successful business selling produce. He developed a line of salads that he prepacked, sealed and delivered from San Francisco to Alaska. Dennis died in a plane crash in 1978 flying his own plane during a fishing trip to Canada. He was lost for 3 years until his airplane was found. Gayla Trandum White _______________________________________________________________ Denny was one of my closest friends in high school and afterwards. Denny was a high spirited, fun loving, teasing character. Just before our senior year, he took me fishing on Greenlake, where with his help, I caught my first fish, a pretty undernourished trout. Denny laughingly cleaned it and took a picture of me gingerly holding this thing up by the tail. We used to harass each other mercilessly on our political stances, he being more conservative as the years went on, and I going the other way, and I was looking forward to seeing him at our 20th reunion where we could resume our battles. I'll never forget the shock at seeing his name among the departed Teddies at that reunion. You could always count on Denny to crack you up - and I still do smile at memories of some of the mischief we'd conjure up. Rick May |
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Nick Tanner Nick was a good friend, a terrific trombone player, and one really nice guy. In addition to playing in the RHS band, swing band and other groups, Nick discovered another talent - he could act! I fondly remember him in the small but important role of the cab driver in our senior play, "Harvey." While backstage waiting for his cue to go on, he turned to me with a huge grin and said, "This is really fun!" I've never forgotten his spontaneous joy at that moment. Rick May |
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Les Thomson Les listed intramural sports -- football and baseball -- as the activities most important to him at Roosevelt. He was in Spades, and enjoyed hunting. Les lived in Lynnwood, and died long ago, in August, 1973. |
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I knew Hank way back from the last two months at Eckstein (we had then just moved to the Seattle area), through RHS, the service and beyond. Hank was an interesting contradiction - he adopted the persona of a tough guy with a bad attitude - but I came to realize he really had a good hearted nature underneath. When I came to Eckstein late in the 9th grade, it was Hank who befriended me, brought me to his house after school and invited me to join a small combo, playing drums (badly) with other chums like John Hogan and Nick Tanner. At RHS, we were strong rivals in the trumpet section, but there was little animosity. One really enjoyable memory is the 1957 Seafair, where I was invited to be one of the Seafair Queen's trumpeters. They needed two, and of course I recommended Hank for the job. We had a terrific week blowing fanfares from the floats in parades, and at every other Seafair event. Some years later, when Hank was in the navy and I in the army, we were both coincidentally stationed at the Naval School of Music in Washington, D.C. No music academy for the army, so we had to co-exist with the navy. Military efficiency at its finest. Needless to say, Hank and I were pretty happy to be able to hang out together so far from home. Over the ensuing years, Hank would occasionally show up at our doorstep to chat and maybe grab a free meal. I wouldn't hear from him for a long time, and then he'd track me down and call me up out of the blue. I never knew his family, but from our conversations I could tell he was a pretty devoted family man. The last couple of times I heard from Hank, he told me he wasn't doing so well. Complications from emphysema and COPD took its toll. My very last, and now ironic, communication from him was an inquiry for details on the upcoming RHS reunion. Less than two weeks afterwards, Hank passed away. Rick May _______________________________________________________________ I was very sorry to hear that Hank had passed away. He and I went to our Senior Prom together. We were in the Roosevelt orchestra and concert band and jazz band together. Hank played trumpet and I played bass. I remember he had a shiny green customized 1950-ish Chevrolet that he worked on constantly which was his pride and joy. Hank always marched to the beat of a different drummer, but he was a very talented, interesting and smart individual. I saw Hank again in the early 60’s in Long Beach, CA where I was living and playing in the Long Beach Symphony. He joined the orchestra for a short time while he was stationed in the area. Through the years, I would hear about Hank, that he had a nice family and was a successful business man. I so wanted to see him again after so many years. Wherever Hank is, I know he’s playing his heart out on the trumpet and is probably working on another fancy customized car. Tammy (Abbey) Burdett |
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Wes Warner Wes listed golf and roll room rep as his main activities at Roosevelt. His other interests included cars and hunting. We believe Wes lived in Edmonds, and died in 1988. |
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Al Wheller Alf was built like a brick, seemingly indestructible. He once jumped off the roof of our house after retrieving a Frisbee. His thud caused my dad to come out thinking we were having an earthquake. Of all the fun times at Roosevelt, the most memorable were our trips to Winnemucca, Nevada. Our friend Dennis Whiting moved there after our sophomore year. We thought Nevada was great because they didn’t discriminate much against minors. Among other things, we were able to disprove several theories on beating the Twenty-One dealer. Alf died in a rollover accident near Mount Vernon at age twenty. As his passenger, I was barely scratched. It took me years to begin to comprehend the devastation that his parents must have felt. Gary Wilson _________________________________________________________________ Alf was a friend to everyone. He loved to have fun and was always ready to try something new, but he had a serious and soft side too. Because he had two brothers, he enjoyed spending time with my younger sister, who was 4/5 at the time. (She thought he was great and called him "Elf"). Alf died in an automobile accident in 1961 on his way to Bellingham, where Peggy (Button) Kaastrup, Susan (Mullin) Zwiers, and I were attending Western for a quarter. Such a young age ~ he was going to school, had a small business (that one of his brothers ran for awhile), and was just beginning his adult life. There are many fond memories of Alf for so many of us in this class, and when we think of him, we smile. Vicki Skewes (Schmeil) _______________________________________________________________ Alf was a new-found friend at RHS our sophomore year. He and I shared Igor Gladstone's Spanish III - IV class. The class was unique because it was all boys and me. Seated alphabetically, Alf and his friend, Hal Webber, sat behind me. Gladstone was the original Chauvinist pig, and it was always Alf who said (whispered) just the right thing when Gladstone sent forth his discouraging zingers. From time to time, Alf needed a little coaching in the language, and it was my pleasure to help him whenever he asked. I remember his sweet nature to this day and the kindness and generousity of spirit he showed me. So many of us lost a good and true friend that sad day when his car overturned. Merle Stull McCann |
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Karen Wieland Karen was a very dear friend. Our friendship began at a young age, as our parents were close friends too and they also graduated from Roosevelt High! I always think about Karen, and wish her life had not been taken so young. We shared many memorable years together in the summers on Whidbey Island. We learned to water-ski, hunt agates, sleep in the sand and watch the stars. We appreciated our friendship. At John Marshall Jr. High, Peggy Button, Vicki Skewes, Susie Dewar, Karen and I became five very close friends. We had slumber parties on the week-ends, and the laughter and giggles were constant. One funny memory was all us decided to bake a six layer cake for the junior high bake sale at Karen's house. Her Mother supervised us in their kitchen, and we diligently worked for hours only to finish and have the cake collapse! Karen had a fabulous sense of humor. She was a caring and thoughtful listener as a friend. In her quiet way, she always knew what to say. She had a beautiful smile and loved to laugh. I admired her role as a Mother. She had three wonderful children and was very devoted to them. She was a Mom before I was, so I called her often for advice! Karen called me two weeks before her untimely passing, and I was not able to see her at that time. I have always wished that visit had taken place. I will forever miss Karen and hold all the special memories very dear to my heart. She was one of those people who gave unconditional love. Judy Doan Johnson _____________________________________________________________ Karen was a neighbor and a good friend in high school. I was looking forward to seeing her after all these years. I was sadden to hear of her death. Kathie Armstrong Coart |
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Terry Wienir Terry was a quiet, shy person, but enjoyed working on the Torch, Traffic Safety Committee, Ticket Force, Lunchroom Committee and the Usher Corps. Sue Kates Israel __________________________________________________________________ I remember Terry, and am sure sorry to hear that he died. Terry was a big help with our ticket force during our senior year. His sense of humor added greatly to the team both in the office and at the games. Don Smith |
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Cherie Wilson Norris I first met Cherie because she lived next door to my aunt and uncle when we were at Roosevelt. But it was while we were both attending the U. of W. that we became close friends. We had many adventures together. Our Jr. year we took a trip along with two other girls to Laguna Beach during Spring Break. On the way, we felt so sophisticated when we were served drinks (we were under age) at Tiki Bob's in San Francisco. The object of the trip was of course to go to "Where the Boys Are". The trouble was that when we got there, there were no boys as no one else was having a Spring Break. We proceded to get quite sun burned and Cherie decided she needed to buy a pretty blue swim suit she had been coveting. It took all of her money and she no longer had any money for food for the rest of the trip. Well, you know, what's more important? Another thing we did was sew our dresses for the various functions and dances we attended. We would buy the fabric the day before an event and be hemming a dress as we went out the door the next evening. Cherie's mom taught us how to knit and we would sit and knit sweaters for our boy friends while watching TV reruns instead of studying. After graduation, we both landed teaching jobs in California so we shared and apartment in Sunnyvale. Cherie had a long commute by train to San Bruno but preferred living where one could see the green lawns and orchards rather than being in a tiny apartment in San Francisco. We cooked our first turkey dinner together for many friends for a Thanksgiving Feast. No one got sick! We were in each other's weddings. Cherie died in her early thirties of an aneurysm in her brain while pregnant with her second child. Cherie was smart, kind, sweet, funny, talented and a loyal friend. I have always missed her and I will still always miss her. Nancy Oldenburg Cordry ______________________________________________________________ Cherie Wilson and I met in the fifth grade at Fairview Grade School. We became special friends growing up together. Cherie’s mom always found us jobs—from gift wrapping at Frederick and Nelson’s to stuffing envelopes. We used the money to take the bus downtown to have lunch at the Paul Bunyan Room at Fredericks and then go up to the fabric floor. We both loved to sew and knit and made most of our clothes. Cherie had a good voice and would always try to sing harmony with me—a mistake as I am a monotone! Our friendship continued and we in each others weddings. We played bridge with our mothers (the moms usually won) until Cherie moved to Camus and I moved to the east coast. She died many years ago but I still think of her as a most important part of my life growing up. Judy (May) Baerg ______________________________________________________________ I knew Cherie at Roosevelt, but it wasn’t until my wife (Sharol Powell, Lincoln 1960) took a teaching position next door to Cherie (Briarcrest Elem, Shoreline School District), that we became good friends. Cherie was married to Ralph Norris (this class) and the two of them lived in Seattle and Camas, Washington. The four of us lived within walking distance of each other in Wedgewood, which led to many fun times and unforgettable memories. Many weekend nights were spent playing bridge and trying and/or inventing a new cocktail, most needing a quick trip to the liquor store for that “one time” ingredient. The girls spent hours lesson planning together, always interfering with the night’s dinner preparation....the Spaghetti House, on Lake City Way, was their kitchen of choice. I remember the girls practicing their ukuleles, marathon sewing sessions, and trials and errors with the latest craft. Cherie was never happier than the day she found out she was pregnant, and delivering a son, Michael Jared Norris. Her life and friendship ended far too early for all of us…..November, 1972. Tim Buchanan _____________________________________________________________ Cherie has been gone a long time now but I still think of her often. She was part of our group of best friends. We had so much fun putting on our dance productions for every possible occasion. Kathie Armstrong Coart _______________________________________________________________ I got to know Cherie our sophomore year of high school playing croquet at Judy May's (Baerg) house, but we didn't date until our freshman year of college at the UW. We dated off and on through college until Cherie graduated on time in 1962 and move to San Jose with Nancy Oldenberg (Cordry) to teach in Sunnyvale, CA. My good fortune brought us together on a train back to Seattle at Christmas time that year. I was in basic at Ft Ord, was dead broke, and had pnumonia when I got on the train for Christmas leave. By chance Cherie and Nancy were on the same train and got me home in one piece. Our romance was rekindled and we were married a year later. Cherie taught in Shoreline with Tim Buchanan's wife Sharol for six years while I finished college. Following my graduation we moved to Camas, WA where Cherie retired, we bought an old house, and worked at learning to live life in a small mill town. To our great joy our son Michael was born in 1969. Cherie continued to be involved in sewing, knitting, painting, volunteering, and playing bridge while making new friends and assuming the roles of mother and homemaker. During these years we spent much time exploring the Gifford Pinchot Nation Forest (on the slopes of Mt St Helens and Mt Adams) and on the Oregon and Washington coasts. As Nancy noted Cherie died much too young of a brain aneurysm in 1972. Our son Michael grew to 6 ft 4 inches 220 solid pound, is athletic, and inherited Cherie's gift for making music. He lives in Camas, works in the Bonneville Power office in Portland, and has a son. Ralph Norris |
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Trudi Zedick Trudi always had a big smile on her face. She was interested in drama and participated in the plays at school. She was on the Entertainment Committee and involved with Spades. She moved away from Seattle after she got married. Sue Kates Israel __________________________________________________________________ My most indelible memory of Trudy comes from the RHS Drama Festival, where she won the Best Actress award. You have never seen such an excited and thrilled young lady, and I was overjoyed for her. She was darn good, too, and deserved that accolade. Rick May |
