Class Notes 1950

   

Jack Reilly

1371 Dill Road
South Euclid, OH  44121
216.291.5762
tatlerjack25@sbcglobal.net
 
   
   
fall 2008

The 2008 Reunion is over and our 1950 class is already thinking about our 60th in 2010. We hope you will start thinking about attending. Rita and John Buckon, KT and Jim Conway, Lois and Len Terry and Fred Korey attended. Making his first visit since graduating was Gerry Fenton and wife Stephanie. He said the campus changes were greater and more impressive than what he had read about. I had a mini reunion that same weekend at my granddaughter’s wedding. Besides myself were my grandson Steve Kowalski ’03 and Dave Galvin ’91. Dave is a Deacon at St. James Catholic Church in Charles Town, WV. We saluted JCU in the appropriate manner. ... John Chambers had an 80th birthday party given by his wife, Helen. Attending were Eugene Lavelle and wife Monica and Helen Sennett. Gene and John grew up within walking distance of JCU. Gene said he just returned from Florida via the Auto Train and said it’s a great way to travel. Gene worked for the family mechanical contracting business and retired 13 years ago. The Lavelles had three children: two girls and a son who passed away a few years ago. Gene’s favorite saying is “I’m getting older every year.” ... Sorry to report that George Murphy, of Lakewood, OH, and Robert Sheil, Ft. Myers, FL, passed away since our last issue. Our prayers and condolences go out to their families. ... Robert Brihan, Windsor, CT, and wife Irene have five children and eight grandchildren. He spent 25 plus years with Wyeth Labs. Over the past few years he has had a number of surgeries and considers himself close to being “bionic.” ... One of the other twins, Ernest Centa, Euclid, OH, (brother Emil was in last issue) and his wife, Lillian, have three children and three grandchildren. Ernest and his wife still try to go to Europe every year, always through Slovenia. Still active part time in his law practice, Ernest finds time to play the stringed bass in both the Euclid and Lakeland Civic Orchestras. One of his daughters is a graduate of the Cincinnati Conservatory of Music and taught music in China. ... James Leonard, Berea, OH, taught and was department chair of the Liberal Arts Department at Tri C West Community College in Parma. He has been there for 42 years and still teaches philosophy part time. He also taught Latin, English and religion. He and his wife, Kay, have five children and 16 grandchildren -- one a Carroll grad. Originally from Akron St. Vincent’s Jim joined the Jesuits after graduation from JCU and taught at St. Ignatius. ... Jerry Driscoll, Carlsbad, CA, spent 31 years in the United States Navy as a pilot, mostly on patrol type planes, attaining the rank of captain. After retiring from the navy he spent the next 14 years with Logicon. He and wife Rose Marie have six children and 17 grandchildren. They spend their spare time traveling and visiting with the grandkids. ... Paul Morrison, Indianapolis, IN, was ill when I called so his wife, Joyce, and daughter Paula filled me in. Paul spent 30 plus years in sales with Broadhead Garrett Co; retiring in 1987. The Morrisons have three children: two boys and a girl. Paul spends his free time with his second greatest love, his grandchildren. Get well soon Paul. ... Until the next column God bless and all the best. Please remember in your prayers, our deceased classmates. Jack
   
   
summer 2008 Emil Centa, Highland Heights, OH, and his twin brother Ernest may be the only twin attorneys practicing law in Ohio. Emil’s specialty is probates. Although retired, he still practices on a reduced scale. Emil and his wife, Mary Ann, have three children and 11 grandchildren. Emil says he enjoys the time spent with them. ... Had a great conversation with Tom Mahoney, Galion, Ohio. About two years ago Tom popped a vertebrae and had it surgically repaired. Following the doctor’s instructions Tom exercised regularly. Low and behold while exercising he popped another one. He declined a second operation and now takes a shot (medicine) every day. Tom says his Golden Years are a little “tarnished.” Tom sees Warren Cummings on a regular basis as both wives were roommates in college. ... We are sorry to report the death of Bob Zarobell. After graduation, Bob went to work for the City of Cleveland and retired from the city in 1985. After he retired he reverted to his first love, the piano. Bob, an accomplished piano player, played with many local “Big Bands” and did some touring with them despite gradually going blind. Bob was a twin and leaves five children: four sons and a daughter. ... Bill Kilfoyle, Elyria, OH, has retired twice -- first from an Elyria Bank and then from his law practice. He now spends his time golfing and doing yard work. Bill and his wife, Marci, have six children, 13 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Bill and Marci have 17 siblings living in Florida and every St. Patrick’s Day they host a party for them. Bill and Bob, also a classmate, are twins. During the summer he plays golf with Bob O’Donnell. ... John Bonner now lives in the Mount Dora Retirement Center in Mount Dora, FL. Since retiring from his Akron and Painesville beer distributorships, John has lived in Florida, close to his son and daughter. After graduation John joined the Marines and became a fighter/bomber pilot. He flew over 100 missions in Korea and received the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Bronze Star and the Navy Flying Cross. He says he would like to hear from some of his friends. ... After graduation, Dr. Richard Blackwell taught philosophy at Carroll for five years. He then went to St. Louis University where he did research on the Vatican Library micro film created during and after World War II. He said his interest has always been on the Religion/Science area especially as it pertains to Galileo. Richard has written ten books, his latest being “Behind the Scenes at Galileo’s Trial.” Richard’s wife Rosemary died six years ago. The Blackwells have six children. Although he retired in 2000, Richard is still at the library doing his research. ... Please remember our sick and deceased class members in your prayers. Until the next issue, God bless and all the best. Jack
   
   
spring 2008 Depending on the publication date, I hope you had/will have a happy St. Patrick’s day. I hope you have as many good memories of this day as I do. Received a Christmas card from Jerry Fenton in Naples, Fla. By now he should be back from his trip to Egypt. Jerry and his wife, Stephanie, usually take one big trip a year. Other than a few new parts here and there, he is doing OK. ... Jim Conway was recently honored by Regina High School. He was given their Lifetime Achievement Award for the many volunteer hours he has given them. ... My wife, Kathleen, and I went to the Christmas Show at Severance Hall with the Tri-City Senior Citizens. Who sat right behind us on the bus but Bob Knotek and his wife, Marian. I meet him in the strangest places! I once met him in Grand Central Station in New York City. Bob says he makes a few trips with them every year. ... Louise and Bill Reagan now live at St. Edwards Retirement Home in Fairlawn, Ohio. Bill has had his share of health problems, causing him to say “these aren’t the Golden Years.” ... Another person fighting the “Golden Years” is Al Buchynsky. He too, is upbeat and doing the best he can and sends his regards to all. ... Called Jack Eggl in Toledo and he reports all is quite there. He and his wife, Pat, are going to Arizona in a few weeks. Next year the Indians will be there. ... Bill Schirmer of Ashland, Ohio, went into the service after graduation from JCU and followed that up with a degree in chemical engineering from Case. He and Marilyn have been married for 57 years, and have five children. Three of the five are surgeons and one a nurse. One is not in the medical field. He retired from Ben Venue in Bedford, Ohio. One of Bill’s memories at Carroll was being asked by the varsity football team to be their pitcher on their intramural fast pitch team. ... Rev. Howard Stunek, OFM, is retired and in residence at Queen of Peace Priory in Burling, Wis. He recently had knee surgery. ... I went to the Mass of Remembrance at JCU in early November and thought it was poorly attended. I think there were only three or four from our class, Jim Conway, Fred Korey, and myself. Considering the effort put into it by the university and the reason for the Mass, more of us from the Cleveland area should attend. ... Tom Powers from Mayfield Heights, Ohio, retired from his own Property Survey Company about 10 years ago. He said it was a natural for him since he was a math major. He and wife Jerry’s children all live out of town although his oldest daughter went to JCU. An interesting fact is that Tom is still active in the Christian Life Community movement that he and others started while at John Carroll. ... Tom Ott retired from his own window shade and drapery business. He and wife Rita have been married for 58 years and have four children. One son, Tom, writes for the Cleveland Plain Dealer. Although restricted by cancer, Tom remains upbeat about the future. ... Rev. Andrew Krafcik from Arlington, Va., was recently surprised by his family with an 80th birthday party. He said he had just returned from a trip to Slovakia, where he visited family and friends. Father is now retired and in residence a Culpepper Garden Retirement Homes in Arlington, Va. He wishes to be remembered to Hugh Gallagher and Don Vondriska (Holy Name classmates). ... Ray Ogrinc from Westlake, Ohio, and wife Carole have been married 48 years and have five daughters. Ray played football for Carroll and one of his fondest memories is being in a carpool with Sig Holowenko ’51. He added it was a thrill a minute. ... Raymond Grasberger started in night school and lives in Pinellas Park, Fla. He retired after over 40 years in the auto/trucking business. He and his wife Grace have been married 58 years and have four boys. After retiring, he volunteered at the Florida International Museum where artifacts from the Titanic, ancient Egypt, etc. are displayed. He spends a lot of time helping his grandchildren. Ray, a Benedictine grad sends his regards. ... Dr. Jim Lasch retired from his surgery practice in 1995. He and wife Mary have eight children. He loves to putter in the garden and other than recent knee surgery, his health is good. ... Please remember in your prayers our sick and deceased classmates. Also I would like to hear from those of you who live outside Ohio. It will cut down on my phone bill. Best regards to all! Jack
   
   
fall 2007

On September 19, I along with about 35 other WWII veterans had the privilege of being flown to Washington, D.C., to visit and reflect on the WWII Memorial. We also visited the Vietnam and Iwo Jima Memorials. The visit is a project of Honor Flight, a nonprofit organization created solely to helping veterans with a visit to their memorials. Top priority is given WWII veterans. Space prohibits me from going into details but it was truly one of the most meaningful experiences of my life. I was very proud to serve my country during WWII and equally honored by those who took time at the airports and restaurant to stand, clap and say “Thank You” as we went by. The program is now in 14 states. If you are interested contact: Honor Flight, Inc. Tel. No. 937-521-2400 or at www.honorflight.org. ... John Friedel was transferred to Columbus, OH, where he worked in sales for Glidden Company. Now retired, John is recovering from heart surgery. One of John’s sons is a pilot for Southwest Airlines and the other a high school teacher. ... Dr. Ken Whelan retired after 40 years of teaching at Baldwin-Wallace College. He also did management training for Warner and Swasey Company. He and his wife, Betty, have seven children. He said to say “hello” to his friends. ... After graduation from Carroll, Dr. James Callow got his Ph.D. at Western Reserve University in American Culture. For the past 40 years he taught at the University of Detroit. Now retired, Jim spends his free time swimming and working on his folklore web site. Jim has over 40 years of customs, superstitions, tales, jokes and games in his folklore collection. Included are folklore on Manx (his roots) and the Celt cultures. He promised his students he would publish them someday. When the web site is completed I will published it in the column. ... Dr. Joseph Kastelic retired from the staff at Akron General Hospital. He also was an associate professor at NEO College of Medicine where he still teaches part time. His specialty was pediatric hematology and oncology. Dr. Kastelic and his wife, Cathy, are the parents of seven children. One who graduated for John Carroll University and one grandson also is a JCU grad. Joe stated that he was guided by the philosophy and religion courses at JCU and that they helped him grow and persevere in life. ... ... Our class must have been pretty smart because here is another grad with a Ph.D. Dr. Joseph Cassidy lives in New Bavaria, OH, with his wife, Rita. They have seven children and 24 grandchildren. Joe retired from Northeast Community College where he taught chemistry and physics. He lives on a farm and said that “I caught him before he left for his nightly ‘chores.’” Note: The selection of all the Ph.D.s is purely coincidental. ... John Chambers is retired from Gilmore Academy and wife Helene is retired from St. Vincent Hospital. John does as much as his body allows. He keeps busy and spends his free time in Florida or visiting his grandkids. ... The JCU Alumni Chapter of Erie, comprising of Jim Cox and John Tullio, meet every now and then at Carmen’s Restaurant in Erie. Jim is recovering from prostate cancer. He sends his regards to all. ... Our condolences to Ed Schaefer, whose wife, Loretta, passed away in September. ... Saw Frank Ruther at Giant Eagle. He looks good. Frank retired from All State Insurance and now lives in Euclid. He keeps active at his old parish, Christ the King, and by driving for Meals on Wheels. ... Bob Lyons is still active in his accounting firm. He is, however, quite active with Betty and son, Kevin -- both require assistance. Betty is scheduled to go to Boston in November for treatment. Betty and Bob still go to Vegas (with a side trip to California to visit family). Bob says it is a cheap vacation (only if you win, Bob). ... Rev. Robert has been a priest for 50 years and is presently at St. Anthony’s Parish in Akron, OH. He taught at Borromeo Seminary and was a classmate of Rev. Frank Van Bergen. He also keeps in touch with Father Schell. He says “hello” to Dick Sweeney and has some great memories of John Carroll University. ... Jack
   
   
summer 2007 This column will replace the quarterly letter that I have sent out the past few years. As with the letter the purpose of the column is to keep you informed of other classmates. We have about 200 on the 1950 class roster. So please keep me informed of your doings -- see above for contract information. ... Again many thanks to Charlie Byrne for his dedication in writing this column. We hope you have a speedy recovery from your knee replacement surgery. ... Sorry to report the passing of John A. Burke. John had a very interesting life, before, at and after John Carroll. He got his diploma at an adult high school, served in the Navy as a dental technician and worked on ore freighters as a deck hand and as kitchen porter. He also was an accomplished artist, railroad train buff and active in the Great Lakes Historical Society where he was a board member. He also received the first Historic Interpretation Award from the Association of Great Lakes Maritime History. Our sympathy to his wife Anne. ... Called John McCauley -- he is still playing bridge five days a week. His wife, Rita, is recovering from heart surgery. ... John Brattoli retired 23 years ago from Lorain County Community College. He said that he was a professor in the Business College. He lives close to Bob O’Donnell. John asked me about Jose and Larry Kiska ’51. If you know anything about them, let me know and I’ll pass the word on. ... Went to the Alumni Reunion in June (our next one is 2010 mark it down) and saw Fred Korey and Jim Conway. Rev Francis Lihvar, SJ, from our class, was a concelebrant at the Alumni Mass and Moment of Remembrance. ... Tom DeMay has been retired for a number of years from Ohio Casualty Insurance Co. He and wife Laureen have eight children -- four boys first and then four girls. When the post office opened at JCU in 1946 or ’47, Tom was its first mailman. Tom would like to know the whereabouts of his old roommate Bucky O’Connor, also from Conneaut. ... Since my last “Reflection” letter, our class has lost Dr. Jack Porter, Jim Calkins, and Bob Nook. Our belated sympathy to their families. ... George A. Kmiecik, who spent 29 years with the Cleveland School System, is busy at home taking care of his son, George, also a JCU grad class of 1976. George’s other two boys went to B-W. Keep George in your prayers. ... Bob Knotek is still busy at the Cleveland Playhouse and as a Eucharistic minister at the Cleveland Clinic. He recently made his annual trip to Niagara on the Lake. He said he had a great time. He recently became a great-grandfather. ... Bill Reagan is in St. Edward Assisted Living in Fairlawn, OH. Although the first half of 2007 has not been good to Bill and wife Louise, they look forward to a much better second half. ... Talked to Robert Heinz (Cleveland) who retired from General Motors, Terex Division. Bob and his wife, Dee, live at the Olympia Senior Citizens Development Complex. He is active in the development complex and also the St. Vincent DePaul Society. Robert and Dee have four children and send their best wishes to everyone. ... Paul Kleinhenz (Cleveland) retired from IBM. He and his wife, Jeanette, live in Parma and have two sons. Other than a bad knee his health is good and he spends his free time gardening. ... Ward Hill had his second heart operation last fall and is feeling good. To quote him “I’m still kicking but not quite as high.” He and Nancy have been married for 57 years. They still go to their cottage in Vermillion. ... Retiring after 30 years with Allstate Insurance, Joe Smoltz spends a lot of time golfing. He also spends some time boating, but not as much as he would like. He said his wife died about 30 years ago. ... I would like to hear from more of you, especially out-of-state classmates. I can be reached at my address above. Have a safe and happy summer. Jack
   
   
spring 2007 Charles Byrne's last column

I had but one contestant respond to my picture quiz of last month, and yes it was John Buckon identified by Joe Raymond long time resident of Saginaw, MI. Joe spent time in the Marine Corps, as this writer did, and was relocated to Saginaw by Procter & Gamble Company as a regional sales manager for many years. (Serving in the Corps in Korea for a year can prepare you for anything!) The father of seven children and 13 grandchildren, with some family in town he keeps busy with this twenty! Yet I hope to be able to buy him that beer! ... I was able to reach an old pal, Pat Monroe (Kay), by phone to find out he too is still working! Though his children bought the business of tools sold to the fiberglass trade in 2000, they can’t seem to get rid of Pat, the wise old master no doubt! Wonder if he gets a salary yet?? He and Kay had six children, all in the area, half of them working with him, they produced 19 grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, with three more expected! Prolific group they! ... Some fellas take their Godfather responsibility seriously – Jim Conway, Godfather of Neal Buckon ’75 recently visited the Lt. Col. Chaplain at his post-Iraq assignment to the 57,000 soldier garrison at Fort Sill, OK. Jim who retired in 1967 as a Lt. Col. after 24 years as an Infantry officer (five years active and 19 years reserves) has tracked his Godson ... visiting him in 2001 at Fort Steward, GA, in 2004 at Heidelberg, Germany and now Fort Sill ... and a long way to go for confession! ... Hugh Gallagher is doing well after his triple bypass of almost a year ago. Has retired from his business of “giveaway” type products -- Chinese competition here too he says. ... We have lost two classmates this year, Robert Stack and Fernando Calimano-MacCormac. Our sympathies. ... Class president Jack Reilly likes to call some of you from time to time and pass on information to all the class, and since my recent right arm rotator cuff surgery was not successful, I find my attempt at typing this occasional article a difficulty. Thus, I am asking him to take over this task! Good luck comrade! Finis, Charlie

Thank you Charlie ....


   
   
winter 2007 Our class has been prominent at many of the Saturday lunches of 40 year gatherings of the Mystic Knights of the Sea. In particular, a few weeks ago when the Carroll News interviewed a number of us who were quoted and obliged to offer photos from our World War II days for the News’ Veteran’s Day issue. This infrequent visitor happened to be there and was noticed sitting in a frequent attendee’s “official seat”! Yes, timing is everything! Which brings to mind the picture herein of one of the usual visitors. I am offering a contest for those able to recognize and identify this “cute looking” class of ’50 regular. Class of ’50 members who are NOT Mystic Knight members are eligible for a free beer at Muldoon’s Saloon and Eatery on E. 185th St. at a future Saturday “meeting.” ... To more sublime reporting: Last month I reported about Nes Burkhart and his travels and said his son Pat was the faculty of “Rolling Rock University.” Though NOT a beer expert, and not having my original notes, of course I suggested it was the editor’s office’s mistake! We old vets know how to pass the buck! It should have been Slippery Rock University, a fine old PA school! ... One of the Saturday “founders,” Jim Conway, continues at CWRU -- is THAT the name -- senior advisor to the Development Department. Octogenarian he, having brought fundraising to an art form at CWRU! We “old goats” remain able! ... Marge and Tom Lynch are co-chairs of a “Top of the Towers” benefit for the St. Augustine Health Center. Much “grazing” and a silent auction, and fellowship will occur. Honored guest Bishop Pilla will be on hand at this early March event. They hope to beat the 2006 target of $100,000. ... I have found the “Gray Streaks” luncheons at JCU to be quite enlightening with talks by the president and faculty. Finis, CAB
   
   
fall 2006 Sal Calabrese is retired from what we knew as Euclid Road Machinery years ago, subsequently Volvo. As an accountant by vocation he works part time for H&R Block now! He and Dorothy celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary last August. They had seven children, and 15 grandkids, and are in general good health. Most of the gang is in the area. ... Ray Chay is still enjoying his retirement in the Columbus area. He and Dorothy had three children, and have two grandchildren in the area. Ray was in marketing for Ohio Bell for years and takes in those Ohio State football games when he can. ... Jim Cox, in Erie, had a clothing store in downtown Erie for years, downtown has died as many downtowns have. He was a good college friend of Hugh Gallagher and the late Fran Calkins. He still will make a classy custom suit for those willing to be measured on an Erie visit. Fran Calkins was a customer of his. Great Italian clothes of course! He’s had his share of health problems, bad knees from basketball playing at St. Ignatius and the Navy among them. Jim and Mary had five children and 10 grandkids but no one closer than Pittsburgh. ... Ward Hill is recovering from a heart valve replacement at his home. He is part cow now. How does it go -- how now brown cow? ... John Buckon hasn’t had the greatest health of late, but he hasn’t lost his sense of humor at all. Having read the flyer from the university about the John Carroll Mass and brunch for deceased classmates, he suggested he and I couldn’t go because we were still living! Clever English major he! ... Our sorrow to the families of Joe Uskert and Jim Cullen who recently passed away. Jim was not only at JCU with me, but we were at Christ the King and St. Louis parish in Cleveland Heights for years. Jim had a great prayer on his card: I’d like the memory of me to be a happy one; I’d like to leave an afterglow of smiles when life is done. I’d like to leave an echo whispering softly down the ways, of happy times and laughing times and bright and sunny days. I’d like the tears of those who grieve, to dry before the sun of happy memories that I leave when life is done. CAB
   
   
spring 2006
It took another golden age lunch at JCU to find out that Jim Conway responds with dispatch to the screams of women! At a meeting downtown Jim heard the exiting female exhortations about a purse snatcher, and our hero captured him then held him until the police arrived. Hurrah! Conway’s law partner, Clyde Thomas ’51 said he didn’t possess such a “death wish”! Editor Pockar gave a university update at lunch. ... The university passed on a note from ’50 alum Leonard Siegel in California, PA, south of Pittsburgh. I called him and we had an informative chat (which reminds me that I have an 800 number that NO ALUM chooses to use to call me with any info!). The town of California, PA, was founded in 1859 and Siegel taught at California University of Pennsylvania for 32 years as a history professor. He and Lorraine have two children in their young 40s. Leonard was raised in Lakewood, OH, as a child and in 1960 earned a Ph.D. in history at Western Reserve University. He won an award from Congress for his writings on the Anatomy of Dictatorship! In short – he has an extensive history background. Never gets the alumni news he says, trust that will be changed! ... Jo and I attended St. Colman’s March 17th having heard about the great Mass and music on St. Paddy’s Day. It was well worth the struggle with the crowd. Fr. Jim Conry ’49 was among the 20 concelebrants. The marching bands and musicians were fabulous! ... Finis, CAB
   
   
winter 2006
On December 16, the Mystic Knights of the Sea met at a new spot for their Saturday lunch event, J. B. Milano’s at the Cuyahoga County airport. The new owners, of only three months, opened especially for the group, not knowing just what they were in for of course! In the course of conversation, Jim Conway was prompted to elucidate on the great merits of planned giving for us as individuals as well as for JCU or a like charity we might choose. Pete Bernardo ’67 would have loved to have heard him! Conway will represent John and Rita Buckon in Heidelberg, Germany, in April when Fr. Neal Buckon ’75 receives his latest promotion to Lt. Colonel. Conway likes that German beer! ... Jim Cullen and Julius Sukys ’48 attend Tai Chi class at the Gathering Place and find it most relaxing. The “Knights” plan a January 7 lunch with wives! I recently saw Ed Schaefer at the Green Road University Hospitals facility,where one can see countless Heights friends on any given day. He looks very well and, JCU’s former VP for nusiness, seems to be enjoying his retirement of ten years. Though not too many of the Schaefer’s seven children are married, they have nine grandchildren. ... We lost classmate Fran Calkins in recent weeks and his 12 children and 36 grandchildren helped fill Gesu Church! ... January 7th arrived and eight of us brought the finer sex members – wives and/or gal friends among the many widowers among us. Bill Sweeney ’48 was alone, but Jim Conway and Katie, John Buckon and Rita, Julius Sukys and guest Marg Knoblauch, Charlie Eder ’48 and Laverne Powell, Myron Wettrich ’45 and Jane Keller, class pres. Jack Reilly and Stephanie, and my Jo and myself. We missed some regulars, Ed Hawkins, Bill Coyne ’48 and Jim Cullen – the latter I understand was ailing. We all had a jolly time and good food at J.T. Milano’s (forgot Jack McKenna ’49 and Babette Casey!) ... Jim Conway announced the death of J.V. Gallagher ’43 in San Diego! A great old friend; and Jim and Katie were leaving for San Diego. ... The golden alumni lunch bunch met at JCU mid-January because parking was available! We had a fine presentation by John Scarano, director of Campus Ministry, who described his function in depth. It was a great event and we do hope we can do more of these golden alumni lunches at JCU. ... Fred Korey has had a dull winter so far -- no trips to Hawaii. CAB
 
 
fall 2005
A number of class members were at the Little Sisters of the Poor on October 8 for the 80th birthday Mass for Dave Hackman ’49. Bishop Pevec G’56 was the celebrant, and there was quite a crowd! The Hackman children provided a great lunch following Mass. David, Mary Ann, Kathleen, and Elizabeth put on quite a spread! ... John and Rita Buckon, Jim and K.T. Conway, Ed and Dorothy Hawkins from the class of ’50 attended. Bill Sweeney ’48 and Myron Wettrich ’45 were on hand as well. Myron “tickled the ivories” of course. Dave seemed to enjoy the festivities. ... In a previous column I referred to Ed and Dorothy Hawkins as Calkins in error, a likely bit of dementia per chance, and since Fran Calkins is a ’50 class member, the able editor and staff accepted it. Oh well? ... The inauguration of Robert Niehoff, SJ PH.D., was a festive event -- countless classes were represented, representatives from a number of Jesuit colleges and universities, not to mention delegates from a number of other colleges and universities. Quite a gathering! ... We had the initial Kelley/Ryan “lunch bunch” at Milano’s at West 25th Detroit and it seemed to be well received. The Play House Club was not too convenient for many. ... Finis CAB
 
 
summer 2005
At our 55th reunion ‘bash’ Saturday evening, I was able to get some news from those not often seen -- 38 classmates and “significant others” seemed to enjoy themselves, but I sure wish Gesu Church would lower the air conditioning level! ... Three brave widows of former classmates attended: Jackie Murphy, Helen Sennett and Marilyn Cunin -- God love em! I did get some data on Marilyn Cunin’s activities, a pal from St. Louis parish years ago. She remains in the parish yet, and daughter Jane ’83 resides with her and serves as her executive assistant in assisting her in pursuing her various board functions! She’s chair of the Bruening Foundation, John’s former employer we knew as Bearings Inc., on the board of Notre Dame College, and honorary trustee of her long time charity where their handicapped daughter was a patient -- Our Lady of the Wayside. With sons out west -- John and family in Las Vegas and Tom in Folsom, CA, -- she travels to those locations a few times a year. Son Bill is in Nashville, and 14-year old twins number among the five grandchildren. ... An honorary class of ’50 member, Jesuit Fr. Frank Lihvar, was here, semi-retired and teaching a “Cicero” class at JCU. He lives at Schell house here at JCU. ... Ed and Dorothy Calkins sat with us, as well as Ed’s sister Mary and her retired surgeon husband, Jim Lasch. They too had eight children such as the Calkins, and remain in Cleveland. One child, a daughter, has followed in her father’s medical career and will be at University Hospitals. Ed and Dorothy seem to be getting better, their handicaps not slowing them down! ... Lois and Len Terry have left Florida after 25 years and plan to settle in Michigan. They are expecting a sixth grandchild from a daughter who herself is a grandmother! This all happened from a previous marriage as I understand it???? The “cruising” Bob Knotek’s are to be on the Mexican Riviera in October. ... Our condolences to the Brett family, classmate John passed away early July. And regrets to the family of classmate Wm. O’Brien who passed away in California. ... CAB
 
 
spring 2005
The Class of ’50 was well represented at Jim Sennett’s funeral at Gesu just after Pope John Paul II tributes. Jim died on Friday, March 31. Mass was celebrated at Gesu with Bishop Edward Pevec ’56 as the main celebrant. The Bishop was a life-long friend of Jim and a classmate from Latin ’43. Jim had been a partner at Jones Day for 35 years and retired in 1960. The Mass and Shaker Country Club luncheon was filled with Latin, Ignatius, and Carroll alumni and by Saturday luncheon “Mystic Knights” were present en masse: Jim Conway (pallbearer), Jack Reilly (as you recall Reilly was president of our class), Jim Cullen, Ed Hawkins, and John Buckon. The classes of ’48 and ’49 were represented by Julius Sukys, Bill Coyne, Bill Sweeney, Charlie Eder, and others. Charles Byrne was ailing and couldn’t make it! ... Conway tells the story that a couple years ago while Sennett and he were visiting Jack Gallagher in Coronado, Sennett threw a golf ball into the Pacific with the comment “that was the only water hole in 40 plus years of golf he didn’t heave a ball into.” ... W are planning to make our 55th JCU Reunion, June 17-19, even better. Dr. Ken Callahan has agreed to be our master of ceremonies. His inspirational recollection of the influx of World War II veterans to JCU in 1946 was both fitting and nostalgic. ... Even though your Reunion is FREE please mail in the reservation form and indicate which lunches and dinners you will attend. If you have any questions call 1-800-736-2586 and ask for Rosalie Massey. ... CAB
 
 
winter 2005
At our Cleveland Play House Club luncheon in November, Bob Kirschner, Director of the Annual Fund, spoke of the university needs from a funding standpoint. He is new to JCU, recruited from CWRU in recent months. He is an undergrad from Miami University and secured a master’s from Ohio State. Though a native of the Pittsburgh area, he doesn’t have that unique “o” that defines those natives, having left at a young age. The percentage of alumni support is important in evaluation by those rating colleges, and tuition generally covers 75% of per student cost. Thus, any gift is helpful, and some 17-18% of those enrolled are offered full scholarships. Bob was quite informative! ... I had the pleasure of meeting Jim Sennett at where else but the Green Rd. University Hospitals facility – where one meets MANY friends! Jim looks great, having gained back much of some 50 pounds he had lost along with a few parts! He is his hearty self despite his “close shave.” The sainted Helen was instrumental in pulling him through, and the thousands of prayers sure helped! More on the health front, Ed and Dorothy Hawkins seem to be making progress after suffering setbacks, and Jim Cullen still must carry some oxygen with him, but is circulating! ... We extend our sorrow to Rita and John Buckon on the death of their oldest child, Elizabeth O’Brien ’74. ... Fred Korey continues to travel to see relatives, he was in Denver for Christmas with a niece. ... Hugh Gallagher is working on the JCU golf outing for June 6th at Sleepy Hollow. Fellow correspondent Tom Harrison ’49 is on the committee. Hugh has also received an award from Magnificat for his sterling devotion to them for 35 years. ... Tom Lynch’s wife, Margaret, was one of the five in the country to receive a Lifetime Membership in the Ancient Order of Hibernians this year! She has been quite active at the local and state office levels! ... 2005 represents our 5th graduation party time. You all may have been advised of the same, and a number of us are calling alums to see who among you will be attending. These are ALWAYS great times with former classmates. DO make an effort to attend! ... Sadly, I recently learned that Phillip Tripi passed away on January 14. ... FINIS, Chas
   
   
summer 2004
At our May Playhouse Club meeting, we had Tom Fanning, JCU admission director, speaking and he gave us some interesting insights as to the task of Admission. Freshman classes seem to be growing, and the female/male numbers are close. The numbers seem to tip into a few more percent for the ladies in recent years. About 85% choose to live on campus, and some 35% of incoming classes are alumni related! JCU has a commendable graduation rate, ranging from 76.2% to 80.7% in recent years. the l graduation rate of ALL colleges is 23%! Miami, Xavier and Ohio State are the big competitors JCU has to contend with. Our magnificent campus is a plus certainly, but it is a struggle to get proper name recognition. ... Ed McKenna ’49 lost his wife, Lila Jane, recently to cancer. They were married 53 years, and Ed is left with 4 children and 12 grandchildren. He has a lot of personal things to sort thru too. ... Tom Lynch’s daughter Mary, her husband, Paul, and two and five-year-old children have left Pittsburgh for a 2-year stint in Geneva Switzerland for Alcoa. Paul is the human relations officer for a few continents! ... In an attempt to do comparison shopping on the subject of slot machines, Bob Lyons and Bettie Boop went to Reno and Lake Tahoe to compare the equipment with that in L.V. (Las Vegas). Bettie Boop had the good fortune to hit the jackpot on a nickel machine for $1,003.00, which translated to 20,060 nickels. Can you imagine trying to get that bagful through security at the Reno airport. Fortunately the payoff was made in 100-dollar bills! ... Thirty, CAB
   
   
spring 2004
Through the efforts of the ever talented Pete Bernardo ’67 and staff, the pre-1940 alumni who often lunched at Mr. Z’s but may be joining our Kelly/Ryan group at the Playhouse club the ten months we meet there for lunch. A great number of them were with us in March. Pete gave us much more updates on the university, and the joining of forces faces the reality of the “winnowing of the herd” as the deer say! FACT: as spoken by Bernardo, of the only 94 Chaplains in the U.S. Armed Forces three are JCU grads! ... There was a misunderstanding of a few servings being charged in error, but “Superman Bernardo” moved right in and successfully adjudicated the issue. Our hero! Ta Da. ... The April Playhouse luncheon had Francesco Cesareo from The Institute of Catholic Studies who outlined the program and its vision for Catholic students to carry their faith in the marketplace and their vocations. Some 10% of the student population pursues the program, but somehow it seems that was the thrust of a Jesuit education yonder when we old goats attended??? ... We lost Ray Walsh to leukemia. Ray was a pleasant lunch regular! ... Finis, CAB
   
   
winter 2004
Tom Harrison, class columnist for ’49 informed me some months ago about the golfing feat of ½ foursome of Hugh Gallagher and Jim Cullen’s “modified low put competition” –whatever the hell that means- at the last JCU outing months ago. That was before I learned that Hugh was responsible for the great lighting of his past church, St. Colman’s. It certainly looks super from I-90. Also before Jim Cullen lost a lung too. He is recovering quite well and I am sure he looks forward to returning to the links. ... The “Kelley lunch bunch” at the Playhouse Club continues to grow. Bob Zarobell hopes to enlist more members from his class to join us. We “vets” and younger grads of the late ’40s and ’50s are all welcome. ... Pete Bernardo ’67 and his female counterparts from Development plugged us in on JCU activities and progress at the November luncheon. Bob Knotek entertained us with his tale of high storms and his Hawaiian cruise some months back. Loss of food and drink from tables for 4-5 days was a repeated routine. ... We celebrated the end of ’03 at Charley’s Crab on the 31st. We were fortunate enough to sit near retired JCU French teacher Lucien Aubé and his wife. Some good chatting ensued. ... FINIS, CAB
   
   
summer 2003
Tom Lynch has been asked to be our class chairman for the $125 million fund drive now underway. ... Jim Cullen reports his granddaughter Colleen Miles has graduated summa cum laude in her humanities studies at St. Mary’s college in Indiana. ... Medical breakthrough -- Bob Lyons reports he has gout in his left pinky finger! This may have something to do with his constant companion Betty Boop opening up casino in Seneca, NY. ... Prudence Lyman advised of the death of her ’50 classmate husband, Reginald T. Lyman, Sr., on February 1 of this year after a long decline from Alzheimer’s. ... Finis -- CAB
   
   
spring 2003
Don Hilfer is looking for additional retired JCU members who like to golf on Thursdays at any number of courses in the general area. They meet at 2:00 p.m. and have a jolly time. Call him at 216-531-3682 -- the group starts in May. … Hugh Gallagher received the annual prestigious Father’s Club award from Magnificat High School for his unstinting work on their behalf. … Lacking too much alumni activity to report, let me share a letter I wrote to the Plain Dealer that will not be published. My “quote” for the year has likely been used up and it’s only February as I type this. “Letters” -- Plain Dealer -- Hurrah for ethicist Jean Bethke Elshtain and her proposition that “Bush can make moral case for war.” P.D. 2/8/03. Her audience of a number of John Carroll professors against war action, makes one wonder about their (professors) intellectual credentials. As a Marine Corps World War II veteran of the South Pacific, and combat, I detest what I know of war, but question the ethics of those opposing Bush and imputing all sorts of evil reasons for his attitude. ALL of it is supposition of course but Saddam has a heinous track record of evil deeds they patently ignore! These are intellectuals? They appear to be bigoted, fuzzy minded intellectual charlatans! … Finis, CAB
   
   
winter 2003 Ed and Dorothy Hawkins hosted the Sat. "Mystic Knights" luncheon group at their lovely home in South Euclid in recent weeks. Dorothy and three daughters put on a bountiful buffet, and Jim Sennett and Myron Wettrich '45 demonstrated their piano skills for entertainment. A grand time was had by all. … The well traveled Bob Knotek and wife were at Mt. Rushmore in the summer, and later went to Estonia, Berlin, and Copenhagen before the floods. … John Buckon reports that Fr.Neal will be in Ft. Jackson-Columbia, South Carolina soon. … Fred Korey visited family in the Denver area, and will be back with them for Thanksgiving…. Jim Onway, Jim Sennett, and George Knoblauch '48 and their wives took a 5-ay cruise of the Great Lakes. They had much fun. Finis. Charlie
   
   
summer 2002
The reunion 2002 was a great party, especially for we “50 plus” members who enjoy the party as guests of JCU! Don Hilfer is looking for more golfers to join his current group of “duffers.” Thursdays at 2:00 p.m. is the day and time they play -- presuming we have sunshine. They travel to many courses in Lake and Cuyahoga counties in the main. If interested, do call Don at 216-531-3682. There has to be a number of good days left to play. ... John McCauley and wife were in from their Florida locale to attend reunion weekend, and visit with daughter Patrice Hulseman ’80, mother of 12 of the McCauley grandchildren numbering 23. The McCauleys enjoyed the Tim Russert ’72 luncheon event a few weeks earlier in Florida. ... John Koval had returned from two weeks among the Hawaiian Islands. ... Clyde Thomas ’51 was at our table, always a pleasure; Clyde has a store of gags! CAB
   
   
spring 2002 What I failed to say in the last column, about the cook-out many months ago at the Buckon home, was that Fr. Gene Moynihan’s ’48 mass was for the deceased JCU members and that their widows were in attendance too. In keeping with this type of activity both Jack Reilly and Jim Sennett have had lunches and a few libations for these “Mystic Knights” of JCU who still meet for Saturday lunch at Muldoon’s on 185th Street near I-90 for those interested in some conversation. ... Taking in a trade show myself in Florida in February, with a few days visiting friends on the West Coast -- to see how the other half lives, I realized only upon returning that Jim and Mary Cullen were on Marco Island as we were for one day. ... Vegas regular Bob Lyons and pal, Betty Boop, on a recent visit -- with astute gambling skills -- won a nickel jackpot of 7,661 nickels. You math wizards can translate that into dollars. ... John and Rita Buckon’s oldest child, Fr. Neal Buckon ’75, is with Army troops in Saudi Arabia, and has had some unique experiences there. “There was plenty of irony the day we sang Christmas carols across from the largest Islamic university in the world. The Mattawah, who police the practice of Islam, and prevent the practice of any religion other than Islam, are trained here.” Neal speaks of entertainers visiting and mentioned Drew Carey was due soon. The chief of chaplains, a two star General, and a Lutheran minister visited, and Neal was in charge of escorting them about the base. ... Neal was fortunate to visit Aviano, an hour North of Venice. He visited the enchanting Venice too. A “treat” in contrast to Saudi Arabia when soldiers are very confining. He mentions the annual visit to Mecca which we have recently read about. CAB
   
 

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