Class Notes 1952 |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Dorothy Poland |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| fall 2008 | Happy summer everyone (at last)! Much has gone on since the last column. First there was the Alumni Awards Dinner, at which I was given the Silver Quill award for being a columnist. I never thought I would be given this honor so I was delighted. I had some of my children and their spouses to help celebrate, which made it even more memorable for me. ... June 21 was the annual dinner on Reunion Weekend. I sat with Jim Previt, his wife Jo and daughter Renee. I asked Jim why he never sent me any news and he said Larry Casey is in charge of that department. Well, Larry does send me news, but mainly funny e-mails. The food was good, even though there was a major power failure. The outage affected Bob Tayek’s musicians since some of them were wired for sound. Joe Valencic was sitting at the next table. So, all told there were three 1952 graduates at the dinner. I realize it was an off year, but it is still a nice time and I think more of us should attend. ... We lost another classmate recently, Judge Timothy Cotner. ... I also hear from Don Terrell. Don says his wife, Ann, has been having great results from taking Norwegian Cod Liver Oil after having surgery. As Don says, after fighting taking it as a child, it just may be worth it now. ... Now I get on my soap box. I think we should all vote to shorten the campaigning in election years to August, September and October. There should be a cap on money spent for electioneering. I am up to here with both candidates, but don’t know if it is legal to vote for “none of the above”! This would also help the candidates who supposedly have “jobs” as Senators to do what they are being paid for. ... Till next time, stay safe. Love and prayers, Dorothy |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| summer 2008 | Hi everyone. It looks like spring is finally here (although I do expect snow sometime in April). I heard from Mike Gavin. He and wife Marjorie entertained the presidents of Beaumont School and Ursuline College and Sr. Angelita (Mother Superior of the Ursuline Order in Cleveland) at their home in Florida. There was boating, lunch and dinner. By the time this goes to press, Mike and family will be home in Ohio. ... I have had several e-mails, from friends and alumni suggesting that everyone should stop what we are doing at 8 p.m. Central time each evening for one minute. A one minute prayer from everyone contacted could work wonders. It couldn’t hurt! ... I also had an e-mail from Don Terrell, Santa Barbara, Ca., forwarded from someone who claimed that Bill Gates and Microsoft would give money if the message was forwarded on. I don’t think I did that because I never got any money. Anyone else? I’ve also gotten many e-mails from Tom Fields ’71 re: elder abuse, physical, psychological and financial. I feel very fortunate to have not one, but three, attorneys in my family. ... Jeanne and Larry Casey will be in the Cleveland area soon, but won’t be here for Reunion Weekend. Larry sends me some great e-mails, which I appreciate! ... My computer and I are barely on speaking terms, so I can’t give the rest of Elizabeth and Bill Kenealy’s trip yet but I will. ... George Englehart and I were the only ’52ers at the Gray Streaks Luncheon in April. One last one, on Tuesday, May 20, when Father Niehoff will be the speaker. ... Well, I am off to Houston tomorrow, where my daughter tells me it is warm and sunny. Till next time, please let me know how you are doing. God bless, stay safe, Dorothy |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| spring 2008 | Well, it’s snowing. What a surprise for Northeast Ohio in the middle of January. So far the winter hasn’t been too bad but we are only part way through it. This column will be very short. I have a new computer and the person who is supposed to be helping me only has a limited amount of time. He works three jobs, so you can tell I am not a very high priority! That said, I hope all of you had a great Christmas and a safe and happy New Year. ... I missed the first Gray Streaks Luncheon of the year. Those of you who are in the area should make an effort to attend. The food is good, the price is okay, the companionship is irreplaceable, and they even let you bring your spouse! ... I have had several communications from Larry Casey and Don Terrell, and I still have to finish the saga of Betty and Bill Kenealy’s cruise. Lee Cirillo ’51 tried to send me a photo, but I couldn’t download it. Fortunately another friend sent the same picture and that time I was successful. ... I have also had numerous e-mails from Tom Fields ’71 of Mentor. Tom is deeply involved with elder abuse and the laws that try to rectify said abuse. If any of you have any problems in this area, you might want to contact Tom - tvfields@oh.rr.com. ... Until next time, when I hope to have retrieved my information, stay safe and enjoy the weather. Dorothy | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| fall 2007 | I CAN’T STAND IT! After literally years of drought, I have so much news that I will have to carry some of it over to the winter edition. First, Boo-Hoo for the Cleveland Indians. They did give us an exciting season. ... Good luck to John Wetzel in his run for president of City Council in Medina. John has served on council but would like to take it in another direction. He is one of three vying for the position. ... Jeanne and Larry Casey will be in Cleveland from November 8 till after Thanksgiving. Their stay will include attending Benedictine High School’s November 11 Memorial Mass, breakfast, and alumni meeting. They will visit family and friends, finishing up with a Thanksgiving feast at the home of daughter Mary Beth in Chagrin Falls. Larry talks about a July 4th family reunion when they lived in Chesterland at which there were 197 present. Wow! ... As promised, Bill Kenealy wrote about the cruise he and Betty took around the British Isles and Normandy. I want to do justice to their account, so I will delay the report until next time. Bill did mention that John Carroll was well represented in the 23rd running of the Army Ten-Miler held yearly in Washington. Their son and both daughters were part of the 26,000 runners who participated. They all finished in less than two hours but the real winner was six-year-old granddaughter Olivia who streaked the course in 49 seconds. (She ran the 100 meter course for her age group and received a medal and other precious memorabilia). Being a devoted cruiser I will not forget to give you all the low down on their cruise. ... I received a note from Bill Myers in Lutherville, MD. His enthusiasm for John Carroll has filtered to some of his family. His nephew, Mark Despoth ’07, was the recipient of the Cleveland Public Accounting Firms Award at the Senior Awards presentation. Mark’s brother, Matt ’10, also attends Carroll and brought along six of his classmates from Toledo St. John’s High School. Bill is trying not to lose his Carroll class ring, he is on number three. Bill also mentioned Msgr. John Schmitz as the person responsible for encouraging him to attend John Carroll. ... Sunday, October 21, I saw Mike Gavin at calling hours for his sister, Therese Motko, a classmate of mine at Ursuline Sacred Heart. The first thing he said was “I supposed you are going to bawl me out for not sending news for your column.” ... So take care that I don’t start nagging. Check out the rest of the news next time. God bless and stay safe, Dorothy |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| summer 2007 | Well gentlemen, I thought I might have some news after the latest issue of our magazine arrived. I did hear from Jerry Miller, but he will send news later. You missed a good reunion, our 55th, June 22 to June 24. The weather was good and the students working the events were so helpful. I had the privilege of reading the names of our deceased classmates at the Moment of Remembrance during Mass on Saturday evening. We have lost another 34 from our class. After Mass there was the class picture, then cocktails and dinner. Ten members of the Class of ’52, and in some cases their spouses, had a great time talking over old times. Thomas Dannemiller from Akron, Mary and Thomas Emling from Bedford Heights, Jim Harrington and Bob Regan came from Toledo. Marcia and Andy Kaschalk came from Willowick and June and Bob McCarthy came from Mentor. Jo and Jim Previt brought daughter Renee from Seven Hills, Nancy and Joe Valencic hopped over from Euclid, Bob Tayek was here from Sagamore Hills, but he was busy playing keyboard with the band. And I popped in from Ravenna. ... The ones who get the prize for traveling the farthest are Elizabeth and Bill Kenealy from Virginia. From what Bill said, the sea is in his blood. Even though he is retired from the Navy, he and Elizabeth love to cruise. Last fall they took the Scandinavian tour. This August they plan on visiting ports in England, Ireland, Scotland and Normandy. Their oldest son, who works for the Lord Mayor of London, will join them as a tour guide. What fun! Bill also made me aware that Elizabeth may be the only person with ties to John Carroll who is a survivor of the attack on Pearl Harbor. ... Stay safe and God bless till next time, Dorothy |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| spring 2007 | It is a beautiful spring day, after all the snow we have had, and I am enjoying the sunshine. This column will be very short because I have not heard from many of you. I have had e-mails from Don Terrell and Lee Cirillo ’51 and Tom Fields ’71, but where are the rest of you hiding? If any of you are interested in “Elder Abuse/Law” the go-to guy is Tom Fields. I have his e-mail address if any of you are interested. This is our 55th Reunion year and I hope many of you are planning to attend at least some of the events. I did get to the last Gray Streaks luncheon early in April and saw George Englehart. Any of you who are still in the vicinity should try to make some of these luncheons. The food is good, the company is exceptional and the speaker brings a wealth of knowledge to us. I have been writing this column since November of 1981 to August of 1992 when Paul Mooney took over. When Sam Wetzel asked for help a few years ago, I was happy to help. It is really difficult to give out news of classmates when nobody tells me what is happening in their lives. I would rally appreciate hearing from you! Till next time, God bless and I hope to see you at the Reunion in June. Dorothy |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| winter 2007 | Greetings. Hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas and a safe and Happy New Year. Now we can get ready for Valentine’s Day and then Lent and Easter. Wow the year is going by quickly! … I have had several e-mails from Tom Fields ’71 about the ongoing efforts to protect older citizens. Unfortunately, his e-mail refuses to recognize his address. If anyone knows about this please contact me at my e-mail address. ... I received a great Christmas card (e-mail) from Don Terrell and I frequently hear from Tom Corrigan ’42. Tom and his wife, Marian, live in Salt Lake City. … Larry Casey sent news too. He and his wife Jeanne live in Indiantown, FL, not in Miami as the 2004 Alumni Directory states. They were blessed with seven daughters, five sons, 18 grandchildren and three great grandchildren. And Larry, you are listed in the directory as a 1952 graduate. … Received a wonderful, long e-mail from Joe Valencic with tales of his daughter Michelle’s trek through Hong Kong, Cambodia and Viet Nam. It was an eye-opening experience for her. She is now at home in Chicago and is an equity partner in a law firm in that city. Joe’s son-in-law was recently promoted to lieutenant on the Beachwood Police Department. … Wonderful news from some very nice people. I appreciate your e-mails. Please keep them coming. Until next time, stay safe and God Bless. Dorothy | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| fall 2006 |
Well, they say “no news is good news,” but I don’t believe it! I’d love to hear from my classmates so there is something interesting to read. In the meantime, put Reunion Weekend, June 22-24, 2007 on your calendar – our 55th! ... I hope everyone had a delightful fall, and a Happy Thanksgiving – now on to Christmas fun. Please send me some news. I have written about the e-mails I have received, but haven’t gotten any since the last issue. Stay safe and God Bless. Dorothy
|
|
|
|
summer 2006 |
| Hi, Hope you are all having a great summer, even if the weather has been a bit strange. I have news from some classmates and others from JCU. Tom Dannemiller still lives in Akron. We spoke at the reception for Fr. Niehoff. He is looking forward to the 55th Reunion in 2007, even though his wife, Evelyn, has passed away. She really enjoyed talking with our classmates and the Jesuits. Two of their six children are also JCU grads. ... I have had brief notes from Don Terrell and Dan Boland ’54, both from California. I also had a very long e-mail (with the attachments) from Tom Fields ’71. Tom was very involved in the White House Conference on Aging December 11-14, 2005. He was busy with handouts about “Preventing Financial Fraud, Abuse and Exploitation,” especially of Alzheimer’s patients. This is so important. I can’t include all the information but you can contact him via e-mail for more information -- TvFields@aol.com. ... Missed graduation this year, it was downtown because of the rainy weather. I did attend the Reunion and as usual it was very enjoyable. Andy Kaschalk and wife Marcia and I sat together. The only other ’52 grad was Bob Tayek who was playing nice music with the band. ... I suppose I will have to start nagging now about our 55th next June. The Reunion Weekend is a really nice time and I hope some of you will make an effort to attend. It would be nice too if someone besides Bob Tayek, George Englehart and I would attend some of the monthly luncheons. ... Till next time be safe. Dorothy
|
|
|
|
spring 2006 |
| Greetings on this lovely spring day. I hope you all had a great Easter and that this nice weather is helping our old bones to start moving again. I am on the mend after knee reconstruction and am being very good and doing all those exercises that hurt but you have to do them anyway! ... Sad news ... at the March Alumni luncheon, which was held at JCU, Gene Wetzel ’53, said that brother Sam had passed away and would be buried on Friday. Sam was a good friend to many and will be missed. Rest in Peace, Sam. ... I had a couple of very nice e-mails from Warren (Don) Terrell. Don and his wife, Ann, live in Santa Barbara, CA, in an old hunting clubhouse built in 1908. Doesn’t that sound neat? They have six children, nine grandchildren and six great grandchildren. Don retired in 1986 after 16 years of teaching high school, several years with the sheriff’s department and then as a financial consultant with a local bank. A very full life -- contact Don -- wdt84@cox.net. Thanks for the notes Don. ... Also heard from that “old geezer” (his words, not mine) Lee Cirillo ’51 who sent me four e-mails with this new e-mail address -- lee.cirillo@comcast.net. ... Till next time, be safe and please send me some news. Don’t forget, #55 is coming in June of ’07. Dorothy
|
|
|
|
winter 2006 |
| Gentlemen, Hope you all had a great Christmas and a safe New Year. No one has written me for this column, but I was able to glean some information from various sources. The reception I attended in Akron for Father Niehoff was elegant. I saw Tom Dannemiller there. ... I attended the January golden alumni luncheon on January 11. This time it was held at JCU. There was quite a nice crowd, but there were only three of us from ’52. Bob Tayek, George Englehart and I made up the contingent from our class. The food was very good and the program by John Scarano, director of Campus Ministry, gives hope for the future of our faith. It appears to be in good hands, at least as far as the students at JCU are concerned. They are doing some very good things. The next luncheon will be at Massimo Da Milano, on W.25th. If you are free at the time of the luncheon, you should try to come. ... Saw George Wetzel at the luncheon and he said Sam is doing okay. ... As a member of the board of trustees for Reed Memorial Libary, I invite you to come and take a look at our renovated library. We have expanded from just over 13,000 sq. ft. to over 34,000 sq. ft at a cost of over 7 million dollars! So come one, come all -- we will open to the public January 21. If any of you are in the vicinity of Ravenna, stop in. ... Now if some of you would be so kind as to drop me a note, or an e-mail, I would be most appreciative. Till next time, when I hope to have some news, take care and stay safe. Dorothy
|
| |
|
fall 2005 |
| Greetings once again. This column came up rather quickly after the last one but I do have a bit of news. It was a busy summer. We (the seven children, their spouses and some grandchildren) met for a mini reunion in Ramona, CA, for a week in August. Cookouts, beaches, spa, golf -- lots of fun. ... I must apologize. I ask for news from you and then neglect to print the news I do get. Larry Buynak sent me a note last March and it got away from me. Sorry Larry. He is retired, lives in Gahanna, OH, and is keeping busy restoring a 1966 Dodge Charger hard top, slant back sedan. According to Larry, this is the model year that put Chrysler back into the lead in auto racing. The car was found in Pennsylvania, a total basket case, but is being worked on with great hopes for success. I admire you for your dedication. I know where the gas cap is and the tires need air, but that’s about it. Good luck! ... I also had a note from Ray Wiemer ’51 who lives in Rocky River and is also retired. Ray especially remembers the time he and Pat Trese put out a special edition of the Carroll News for the JCU/Syracuse game. Pat Trese was editor in chief and Ray was managing editor. He enlisted in the Coast Guard from 1952-1956, married in 1953 and raised four children, a boy and three girls while working in the advertising business. Ray’s wife has also retired from a career as an RN. Thanks Ray. ... Lee Cirillo ’51 sent a note mentioning memories of putting the Carroll News together, but regrets he never had one of those hot fudge sundaes. Sorry, Lee, you weren’t invited. Lee mentioned faculty advisor professor Bernard Campbell, trying to hold the line between control and chaos. It was all hot lead (linotype machines), cold beer (but not on campus), brash talk and heated debates. Lee and wife Joan are off to London to play grandma and grandpa to two Brit grandsons, offspring of youngest daughter Leslie. ... I was honored to represent the class of 1952 at the inauguration of the 24th president of John Carroll. It was very impressive! Thanks for the news gentlemen. I hope this means that a few more of you will do the right thing and send some tidbits my way. Take care of each other till next time. Dorothy
|
| |
|
summer 2005 |
| Hi again. There has been so much going on, that I don’t know where to start. Then again, yes I do. I was present at the awards night when Sam Wetzel received the Silver Quill Award. Of course that wasn’t the only one given that night, but Sam seemed happy to receive it. It was a very nice affair. The following Sunday was graduation and I did mention to Pete Bernardo ’67 that the Grey Streaks should lead the grads instead of having to stand and wait while 900 YOUNG people parade in. In a few years he’ll realize what I mean. There is always a very nice reception after the ceremony, and God smiled on us and it didn’t rain! It’s too bad that Bob Tayek and I were the only ones from the class of ‘52 present. ... Next was Reunion Weekend which is always fun. During the dinner, I sat with Bob McCarthy and his wife, June, and Bob Tayek was playing in the band! ... I received an e-mail from Daniel Boland ’54 that brought up memories and names from the far distant past. Dan transferred to Notre Dame in ’52, but we worked together on the Carroll News when I was the first female editor. Lee Cirillo ’51 was editor, Bob Huddleston ’51, Pat Trese and Paul Mooney, plus several other staff members put out a pretty good paper! The thing I remember most about that time is Jim (later husband) picking me up after we finished putting the paper together and going over to Howard Johnson’s on Cedar for a hot fudge sundae with coffee ice cream and high test coffee. What a blast. ... That’s it for now. I would really appreciate any news you can send me. Stay cool till next time. God Bless, Dorothy
|
| |
|
spring 2005 |
| Dear classmates, I am back again. I thought I had done my duty by this column the last time. Paul Mooney took over from me, and who can remember back that far. At any rate, the arm/shoulder is improving, as are my typing skills. I promised in the last column to tell more about Joe Lynch and Louis Colussi. It seems they are both lawyers -- and having three children in the practice, I will stand for no smart remarks about lawyers! As you may remember, Joe was president of our illustrious class and has gone on from there. He graduated from Cleveland-Marshall College of Law and went on to get his MBA from Harvard. He and Vi have lived in the Boston area since 1967. Their nine children, four boys and five girls, live as far away as Texas and as near as the Boston area. They have 14 grandchildren, and two more are expected in 2005. Joe was here for the 50th Reunion in ’02 and wasn’t that a grand affair! Joe has asked me to include his e-mail address in case anyone would like to contact him. jevmlynch@hotmail.com ... Lou Colussi remembers rooming next door to Don Shula ’51 and Carl Taseff ’51 in Rodman Hall. After leaving Carroll, Lou served two years in Alaska, then went on to Georgetown Law School. He served 10 years as an attorney-advisor with the U.S. Dept. of Justice in examination of the Federal District Courts throughout the United States. He is still practicing law in Erie, PA, and still enjoys working full time. ... Sam is being awarded the Silver Quill on May 20 at John Carroll. I am planning on being there to cheer him on. This will be after I return from the West Coast; Portland, OR; Kennewick, WA; and Ramona, CA. Can’t just visit one or I would be in deep trouble. Till next time (unless I can convince one of you to take over) God Bless, Dorothy
|
| |
| winter 2005 |
| Hi guys. Since I had rotator cuff surgery on January 3rd, of course on my right shoulder, this will be short and sweet. Darn it and I finally have news! First of all, Sam’s new address: 12799 Doula Lane, #115, North Royalton, 44133, 1-440-237-5397. I know he would enjoy hearing from any of you. ... I did receive two e-mails, one from Joe Lynch, president of the class of ’52 and one from Lou Colussi. I will give more info next time. My left arm is growing weary, since it is not used to working this hard. ... Two last things saw Mike and Marge Gavin at calling hours for Judge John V. Corrigan ’43 on January 2nd, also Don ’44 and Grace McDonald. John V. and wife Eileen were two very nice people. My family and his family were friends since I was a small child -- a long time. ... Charles Dolan ’52, if you read this, either you or Helen, please call me at 330-296-4259. Thanks. ... Hope all of you had a great holiday season and 2005 will be a wonderful year. The offer to take over writing the column still stands -- take care, Dorothy
|
|
|
|
fall 2004 |
| Hi guys. Since Sam didn’t feel up to writing this column, I said I would stand in for him. Sam is still at Anna Maria in Aurora. His e-mail is working suwetz@aol.com. I picked Sam up for the Institute of Catholic Studies program in September. The program was quite interesting. We saw Bob and Bernadette Tayek there and several other (older) alums. I have also gone to the last two Wednesday luncheons at the Play House. Both speakers were really informative. If any of you are interested, I think you would enjoy the experience. Tim Ryan ’49 is the guiding light behind the luncheons. George Englehart was at the last luncheon. As for me, I finally married off my last chick in July. The wedding took place in Columbus, with the reception held at Deer Creek State Park. We were also having our annual Poland family reunion the same weekend, so it was a busy, fun time. ... If any of you would like to take over writing this column, I would be glad to give it up. If not, at least PLEASE send some news. Again, Sam’s e-mail address is suwetz@aol.com. My e-mail address is PolandMomdot@aol.com. Waiting to hear from you -- thanks. God bless, DP
|
|
|
|
spring 2004 |
| To the Class of ’52 -- a long time ago I was your correspondent, and then came Mooney, then Sam. Well, Sam has had some health problems and is in assisted living at Anna Maria of Aurora nursing home. I had lunch with him the other day and he is looking good. He said he gets out to lunch with some of you once in awhile but can't drive which limits him somewhat. I agreed to type this as a way to let you all know that he would appreciate any news you can send him. He still has the same e-mail address, suwetz@aol.com. We had a nice chat about last year's reunion which was very enjoyable, but Sam missed Saturday evening because he didn't feel well. I thought it was great, and sat with Mike and Marge Gavin, who looked great as always. Hoping to see more of you at this year's Gala. For my part, I have moved back to Ravenna because I was anticipating knee surgery and needed to be on one floor. They tell me it was very successful and things are coming along. I did have a chance to go to Australia and New Zealand in February, on a cruise, and joined three friends in the fall on a cruise from Rome to Barcelona and over to Venice. Was pleased to attend the dedication of the Dolan Center in September. Both Charles and Helen looked well and the structure is something to be proud of. Thanks to them JCU is continuing to grow. If you have ANY news, please send it to Sam or to me at PolandMomdot@aol.com. Or, if one of you would like to become the new correspondent, please feel free! Thanks, stay well and safe -- DP
|
|
|
|
winter 2004 |
| I regret that I don’t have a newsy column for this issue. ... I had hoped to have reunion updates ... I attended reunion on Saturday but became ill and was unable to stay for the dinner and the festivities. I’ve been having a little memory problem but physically am doing well. Temporarily, I’m at Anna Maria of Aurora for rehab. When I’ve done all the rehabbing I can, I won’t be returning to my apartment in Aurora – I’ll be moving into one of the assisted living units here at Anna Maria. Please drop me a note at the above address or give me a call at 330.562.6171 and ask to be connected to my room. ... Take care and I hope to hear from you. Sam
|
|
|
|
summer 2003 |
| "Now is the winter of our discontent" ... W. Shakespeare. This lament rings clear every year the last week of February in N.E. Ohio and this winter 2002-03 has been one that will disgruntle even the most philosophical of men! ... But there is always a bright side to every time of year and this year it was the birth of Jacob Matthew Zuzek, the first grandchild for Z. Joseph and Nancy Valencic. Parents are Nina and Mark ’92 Zuzek. ... The Carroll Cruisers met for dinner in Aurora recently. Walter and Judi Patriski, Z. Joseph and Nancy Valencic, Edward and Mary Pat Mundzak ’53, and yours truly with my friend Barbara Burns. ... This just in from sunny Florida, where many of our alumni spend winters or are year round residents. Z. Joe and Nancy Valencic sent the following: During our stay in Florida the month of February, Nancy and I visited Ed and Mary Pat Mundzak at their condo in Bradenton and then went down to Naples and stayed with Walt and Judy Patriski for a week. While in Naples, Jerry and Helen McDonough invited the Patriskis, Valencics and the Jim Schills to dinner at their condo on the Gulf Shore. Helen McDonough had her cousin Mia visiting and we really had a very nice evening with Helen serenading the group on her grand piano. Helen was very modest about her musical abilities but in fact played very, very well. Helen claims it is therapy for her arthritis to play the piano. We should all try it. Then the next day, the Patriskis, Schills and Valencics drove up to Port Charlotte to have lunch with the Mundzaks and Lavonne Padden. Had a great time and on the way back to Naples, the Schills invited the Patriskis and Valencics to visit their beautiful home in Bonita Springs. The weather was beautiful and so was the company as we thoroughly enjoyed a respite from this terrible winter. ... Not much else happening this bleak winter of ’03. Spring cannot be far away and with summer comes reunion time again. Hope to see some of you June 12-15 on the Carroll campus. ‘Til then, let's hear from you, and you, and, oh, you too over there. Only you can make this column newsy and worth all the effort. E-mail me at suwetz@aol.com. Sam ... P.S. Yes, it's true , I did have surgery, but I won't give an organ recital at this time!!
|
|
|
|
winter 2003 |
| It's unanimous! The class of '52 reunion on the magnificent campus of John Carroll University was an unqualified success in every sense of the word! The one aspect that could have possibly been improved upon would have been an even larger participation! Make no mistake about it -- it was a "wing dinger" weekend of good food, good fellowship, and great reminiscing! On a personal note, it was the very first time I had lived on campus, even for just a weekend. The accommodations were beyond my expectations. The days and evenings were filled with interesting and fun activities. There was at least one solemn moment: Late Saturday afternoon at the statue of St Ignatius of Loyola in front of Saint Francis Chapel. It was there that we paid a devout tribute to a very special friend and educator, Fr. Joseph Schell SJ. Then, accompanied by bagpipes, we marched across Miramar to Gesu Church for Mass and communion. On Friday there was a parade of classes to Kulas Auditorium for the "State of Carroll" address. The Saturday night dinner/dance was a convivial evening of relating old stories of those bygone years. Those attending also received a commemorative silver plate and other mementos of a fabulous weekend. 1952 was also the 50th wedding anniversary for many of those present. It was truly a nostalgic and rewarding weekend for us all. It reinforces once again just "why we chose JCU in the first place." ... Ed Mundzak is the only class of '52 alumnus, to my knowledge, who walked, with his wife Mary Pat, to the reunion festivities. They have been married 39 years and live in a Fairmount Circle apartment. Ed retired this summer. He was associated with Dean Witter/Morgan Stanley Corp. for some 48 years. Now, it is going to be golf, traveling and winters at their Florida condo. Ed and I first met at the VFW post on lower Broadway in Bedford, OH, 54 years ago. ... The Carroll cruisers '52 dined at the very trendy Bronte Bistro on Shaker Square. Celebrating 50 years of friendship were the following: Gerald and Helen McDonough, Edward and Mary Pat Mundzak, James Schill, Lou and Eleanor Spreitzer, Walter and Judi Patriski, Z. Joseph and Nancy Valencic, Dr. Frank and Marjorie Zeleznik, and yours truly with my dear friend Barbara Burns. Dr. Zeleznik is a retired NASA scientist. ... This is from a Spanish proverb: "The lucky man has a daughter as his first child!" Sure worked for us and then we had 2 more girls and 5 boys. Add to that 31 grandchildren, 2 great grandkids and a third due in March 2003. Surely my cup runneth over. Have a safe and satisfying holiday season. Sam
|
|
|
|
summer 2002 |
| I received the following letter from Bill Kenealy to the editor of John Carroll and thought I’d pass it along to everyone.
Dear Jerry,
Winter edition of the JCU magazine is great -- maybe because it answered some questions I’ve had for years. Also, because it converged the lives of so many of our JCU alumni who were in the same time and place. ... First - Ensign Halloran - The Arizona -- I visited this shrine many times as an official Navy guide but never heard his story. One of my distant relatives, Ensign Walter Savage, was on the Arizona and died at the same instant. They must have known each other (Ensigns band together out of mutual sympathy). Could have been roommates. Ensign Savage was the Arizona’s paymaster so he knew Halloran for sure. A destroyer was also named after Savage. ... Second - Pearl Harbor Survivor -- As a child, my wife lived in Navy housing at Pearl Harbor. She saw the attack, as her housing unit was one of the few units actually strafed by zeroes. Her father was a member of the rescue teams that may have tried to save Halloran and his shipmates from the burning Arizona? We’ll never know. ... Third - Vietnam 1971-1972 -- Thanks to your story about General Lavelle, now I know the rest of his story. I was in Vietnam at the same time he was and am familiar with the issue of the 7th AF hitting unauthorized targets. I was interested because US Forces were pulling out of country and those remaining behind had only US air support and the Army of the Republic of Vietnam (ARVN) to protect us. Lavelle was only a name in the news to me and it was only later that I found out he was a fellow JCU alumni. It is an interesting convergence because for a period of time -- June 1971 - April 1972, it could be said that the alumni from a very small university in Ohio controlled the air (7th AF); all Naval resources, littoral, river and Support Bases (I was the comptroller for US, Vietnam and Korean navies) and by a little stretch, the ground transportation? (JCU TC alumni). I am not an apologist for the General, but having been there I can tell you that I am glad he modified the rules of engagement and kept the bad guys off our neck. The battle of An Loc was a classic example of the use of air power and took place not too far from my headquarters. In another war, like the ones being pursued right now in Afghanistan, Lavelle would be a hero. For bending the rules to better protect his people, he lost two stars. ... During the same period, but not related to the Lavelle issue, a fellow JCU ’52 alumni, Navy Commander Herb Hetu, visited Navy Headquarters in Vietnam. Had not seen Herb since graduation and to my knowledge he was my only other classmate to enter the Navy. He was the aide to Admiral Zumwalt, the Chief of Naval Operations who was visiting his former command together with the Secretary of the Navy, Chaffee. Another strange coincidence of time and place, and I have never seen or heard of Herb since that meeting in Saigon 30 years ago. ... Your 2001 summer edition was good in that it celebrated the scholastic and business achievements of our alumni. Unfortunately, we are not free to pursue these worthy goals unless there is someone guarding the gate. The winter edition put a timely spotlight on those who provide that which we formerly took for granted -- national security. Come to think of it, wasn’t Ignatius a soldier before he became a saint?
Sincerely,
Bill Kenealy ’52
|
|
|
|
spring 2002 |
“We few, we happy few, we band of brothers; for he who today signed up for our 50th anniversary Reunion, June 14-16, 2002, shall be my brother!” A parody from Wm. Shakespeare’s Henry IV, St. Crispians Day. Of course, we should expect a very large “band of brothers” and “sister” chair lady, Dorothy Poland. This is a “bench mark “ anniversary, and there are many other incentives to join this “merry band” to be sure. If you are in reasonable good health and want to have a great weekend of reminiscing, imbibing and celebrating our longevity, you won’t want to miss this opportunity. On this weekend, the campus is as alive as a medieval festive affair. The main tent is bigger than the Ringling Bros. ever dreamed. There are activities, meals and events from Friday noon ‘til breakfast on Sunday morning. The accommodations are great and completely free of charge and designed to entertain and accommodate you every minute. Put yourself in the picture and come enjoy! ... Lavonne Padden sent word of the wedding of son William Raymond Padden and Alexandra Ann McKelvey. They were married August 2001 and now reside in Sarasota, FL. She said: “My sweet husband Bill (deceased) would be so happy that our grandson, Michael Roesch is planning to attend St. Ignatius High School. It will be a long commute for him from Chardon, OH., but his grandfather, Bill, used to hitch a ride every morning and afternoon for 4 years to attend school there. Thank you Lavonne for keeping in touch and we sure would like to see you in June. Bruce McAuliffe, who is a reunion committee member, sent this note: “I am planning to attend the 50th class reunion. My wife, Nancy, died 2 years ago of cancer. We were married 31 years. We have four children, two boys and two girls. We sold the optical business and retired seven years ago. I am here at home taking care of the yard and house myself. Best regards, Bruce.” ... And now this e-mail message from Bill Perusek ... “Hi Sam: Nice to hear from you and enjoy reading your column. Retired after 30 plus years with GE in numerous Human Resources positions ending up in Gainesville, FL. That followed 3 plus years in the Navy. Anne and I have 3 children and 4 grandchildren in Atlanta and Daytona Beach. One more due in April. We really enjoy all the GATOR sports, especially basketball, and the college environment here is great. Enjoying golf, umpiring tennis at the collegiate level and some pro tournaments, volunteering at Catholic Charities food pantries, Boys and Girls Clubs and do some HR consulting. Had the great pleasure of a brief discussion with Don Shula ’51 when he was here at the University of Florida for a speaking engagement before 2,000 students and community members. Very motivational and inspirational and mentioned John Carroll more than once during the Q & A session. He was wonderfully received by the students and stayed to sign autographs forever. What a great credit he is to our school and the quality of a Jesuit education. Wow Sam, 50 years! You must be very old by now! Best regards, Bill” ... Bob Grindereng e-mailed the following: “Got the latest meeting minutes today from Rosalie. I have been calling the few classmates that I still have contact with. Dr. Bill “Muggs” Malone will be at the reunion, as will John Gordon Gay. I saw Bill Perusek at the Niles McKinley High 50th reunion in ’98. Haven’t heard from him yet, but hope to get him to this 50th. I was 13 years in Venezuela, and lost contact with most of my JCU classmates. My four children grew up there and all but the youngest attended the local Loyola HS in Puerto Ordaz at least one year. The family returned to the States in 1977 and I worked as accounting manager for Texas Uranium Operation US Steel Corp. I retired from USS in 1989 and moved to Arizona as Controller of Malapai Resources, the mining operation of Pinnacle West Capital Corp. In 1991 Malapai was sold to EDP, a French Utility Co., and I retired again. My wife, Mary, loves Arizona, so we are still here in Phoenix. Bought a new house at South Mountain two years ago on the Legacy Golf Resort. I hadn’t played golf in years and went to an Orinoco Mining Co. reunion in Orlando, played 18 holes, and haven’t recovered since. Went to Mayo Clinic in Scottsdale and the surgeon who did my hip replacement 3 years ago, said it was just bursitis in my knee and not to over exercise it. Still hurts after 4 months. Sincerely, Bob “Ole” Grindereng” ... And just the other day, an e-mail from John Wetzel of Medina, Oh. He writes: “Sam, with each issue of JCU magazine I promised myself that I would get in touch with you but somehow never got around to doing so. You know what they say about good intentions. I just wanted you to know that I am alive and well and living in Medina. My wife and I have lived here since 1950, reared 3 children -- none of which will probably set the world on fire. We’re proud of them never the less. I am “sort of” retired. I have a part time job which keeps me out of trouble and out of the house and therefore not under foot. My wife is pleased about this. My primary interest, aside from my family, is serving as a councilman on Medina City Council. I spend a lot of time doing this, as I enjoy it very much. I will probably continue doing so as long as I am able to, and as long as I can continue to get reelected. I have been able to fool the voters for some time. That’s about all I have to say, Sam. Just wanted you to know that I read your column and look foreword to each issue of the magazine. I believe that I remember several of your brothers and would be pleased to hear news about any of them that you would like to share. I think that I was in a physics class that was taught by your brother John. I could be wrong about this. I will have to confess that I have never returned to JCU since graduation day. I would like to do so some time. Please keep in touch if you are so inclined. Your fellow alumnus, John Wetzel” ... And this from Larry Buynak: Greetings to all his classmates, from suburban Columbus, OH. Following a formal engagement ceremony in John Carroll’s Chapel, Larry wed Mary Elizabeth Gahan, Ursuline ’53 the morning after his last test. The happy couple is looking forward to celebrating 50 years of marriage next year. Parents of three and grandparents of seven, they are enjoying their extended family. On his return from Korea, Larry joined Western Electric, where he was quickly promoted and given the task of pioneering a marketing program with Ohio Bell. The program’s success led him and his family to an assignment at headquarters, in Manhattan, and a home in Westfield, NJ. Two of his major telecommunications projects out of New York were the first Houston domed stadium and the now closed Denver Stapleton Air Terminal. Larry happily took a transfer to the Columbus manufacturing facility, where he held a number of second level manager assignments in personnel, industrial relations, benefit services and public relations. After a 35+ years employment history with AT&T, including 20 years in public relations, he took retirement the last day of l989. In retirement, he keeps busy with managing his children’s 401Ks, financial and investing, photography, and the oversight of the restoration of a 1966 Dodge Charger Classic Car. He also heads up a group of retirees, making monthly dinner arrangements for them and their wives, so the group can stay in touch.” ... And lastly, but not leastly, this e-mail from Z. Joseph Valencic regarding his recent cruise: “The cruise was really terrific. Started in Curacao (Dutch Island), then on to LaGuaira, Venezuela, where my cousin came to meet us. He negotiated a van to take us on a tour of the devastation as a result of the flood they had awhile ago where they lost 80,000 people. It looked worse than Japan after the B-29s got through with bombing Tokyo. There were silt filled buildings up to the third story and remnants of buildings teetering in broken foundations because of thousands of boulders (as big as a good-sized room in your house) rolling down the mountains. There are still some luxurious hotels which are still standing empty -- guarded by the army after the scavengers looted them taking all of the toilets and fixtures that were removable including any copper pipes. They are still digging up, on a daily basis, the many bodies that were buried. Many of the abandoned buildings have been occupied by the barrio people and they cannot get them out. They told us that theater is just like our “Wild West” used to be where your six shooter was the law. It is a lawless territory where you take your life in your hands if you drift into the wrong areas. IT IS UNBELIEVABLE! We then went to a very nice hotel restaurant not too far from where the ship docked and we had a terrific lunch with a couple bottles of wine. We sang a few Slovenian songs, took some video, had some good conversation and then he took us back to the ship. LaGuaira is about 35 miles east of Caracas and my cousin lives about 150 miles west of Caracas. He was about an hour and a half late because of an accident that backed up the traffic plus the demonstrations that were going on in Caracas trying to oust Chaves. We were together from about 8:30 a.m. until 2:20 p.m. He was a little eager to get past Caracas and be home before dark. We then went on to Port-of-Spain, Trinidad, Fort-de-France, Martinique, St. Thomas, Half Moon Cay and they back to Ft. Lauderdale. Food and entertainment was out of this world. They picked Nancy to assist a comedian/magician on stage and on one of three formal nights the chorus line doing the can-can came down and took me up on the stage to dance with them in my tux doing the line kick. That was out 15 minutes of fame. Great time!” Big ZZZZ ... We hope to see you all in June. ‘Til then, I remain your delighted columnist these last 8 years. Sam |
|
|
|
| Return to Top |