Class Notes 1959 -- REUNION June 19-21, 2009

   
  Jerry Burke

1219 W. Grove Street
Arlington Heights, IL 60005-2217
847.398.4620
gburke987@sbcglobal.net
   
   
fall 2007

Sadly, as I write this, the Cleveland Indians are going down to defeat to the Boston Red Sox in Game Seven of the baseball playoffs. After performing so brilliantly against the Yankees and the early part of this series, they appear finally to have caved in to the pressure of the situation. What is that you say? How did my Chicago Cubs do? Don’t even ask! The recurring theme song: Wait Till Next year. ... Tom Basehart has joined the ranks of the unemployed. Tom has retired. He and his wife, Joyce, are currently residing in Rocklin, CA. If you can find Rocklin, CA, you are invited to come by for a visit. ... Tom McGann is doing quite well after successful hip replacement surgery. He is cooperating with his therapy program with an eye toward getting down to his Florida home by the end of October. Out of respect for my old roomie, I will mention nothing about the football prowess of his beloved Fighting Irish. ... Bonnie and I recently enjoyed spending some time with Ann and Bill Marks while hiking in the mountains of North Carolina before journeying down to South Carolina for the annual “Walton’s Pond” weekend as guests of Kathy and F.X. Walton. ... This weekend has a sports theme and this year the Female Sports Trophy went to Donna Breznai and the Male Sports Trophy to our host, F.X. Walton. I was able to wrest the Basketball Free Throw Shooting Trophy from John Breznai this year. ... Roger Risher has won the state lottery, worth $ 40,000,000. He is inviting any one from JCU to contact him. Roger, in responding to my complaint that no one was sending information for this class column, suggested that I make up information about people. Thank you, Roger. I think that was a great idea! ... As the leaves start changing colors and the temperature slowly starts to drop, I look forward to seeing a number of you in Florida this winter. If you will be down there this winter and would like to get together with some of the class of ’59, please contact me. In fact, even if you can’t be in Florida, please contact me. Your fellow classmates and I would like to hear from and about you. Be well – stay warm. Peace, JB

   
   
summer 2007

Mike Campo and Leland Hall both checked in to see if I was still alive when they discovered no column in the last Journal. From Mike I got a letter, e-mail and phone call. He reports that his son, Chris was married recently in a somewhat non-traditional ceremony. The wedding was held on a farm with the reception taking place in a barn with a bar-b-queue dinner and country western motif. Chris is also moving to a rural area and planning to open a bar with a mechanical bull. Mike and Lynda are still scratching their heads. ... Leland Hall reports that he is alive and well and still living in Florida and he is finally retired. This is his third attempt but he assures me this is real. He is also a candidate for a hip replacement for his 14-year old hip replacement. With two new knees our sweat face has paid a price for athletic prowess at JCU. But he has no complaints. As he said, who would listen? ... Some time ago I received a visit from Art Granzeier who happens to live in my town. My latest visit was from his wife who, like Art, is also a retired social worker. They are both doing well and enjoying their grandchildren. ... We just returned from our tenth annual McGann weekend as guests of Louise and Tom McGann. Also joining us were Donna and John Breznai, Mary and Ed Paglione, Carolyn and Joe Ruble, Ann and Bill Marks, Dolores and Paul Brust, who joined us all the way from Scottsdale, AZ, and Bill Colson and Philomena Malizia (Nat’s sister). Philomena also informed us that Nat’s brother Jerry Malizia ’60 is getting married in AZ. Our heartiest congratulations to him! ... We missed Mattie Mathews this year who stayed home to teach kids how to fish at a local Skaneateles Fair. The kids were lucky to have him but we sure missed Mattie and those delicious pancakes. Hopefully we will see him this fall at Cathy and F.X. Walton’s in South Carolina with Dempsey, Breznias, Marks and McGanns. ... If you are planning on being in the Tampa Bay area this winter be careful. Joe Ruble and Tom McGann are looking into a franchise for geriatric motor scooters. I am not sure if the entire state of Florida is ready for this dynamic duo. ... Finally readers of the Journal I am sure noticed that Jerry Schweickert recently took over the column for the class of ’60. When John Veres, who did an excellent job as our columnist, passed the baton some years ago I took over the job. However, I think the time has come for someone else to step forward. I would very much appreciate it as I am sure would the folks at Carroll who have had to endure my technological illiteracy for too long. If you have any interest contact either me or the school. ... Peace, JB

   
   
winter 2007 Although the Blue Steaks basketball team lost to Division I Loyola University back in November, the event drew a good crowd of Chicago area alumni that made for a very enjoyable evening. Loyola was kind enough to provide accommodations for gatherings before and after the game which afforded us the opportunity to catch up with some old friends. Among those in attendance were Jim Mason ’60 and Jerry Schweickert ’60 who journeyed over from Cleveland. The subject again turned to a joint ’59/’60 mini-reunion which seems to be generating a fair amount of interest. Our maiden voyage will be at next year’s Homecoming weekend of September 28-30, with wives included. Director of Alumni Relations Ryan Daley ’99 has offered his full cooperation. We do understand that most of the Class of ’60 is required to take afternoon naps to get the proper rest, but we felt some competitive events would be appropriate and welcome your suggestions. We have agreed on a prune juice chug-a-lug contest. Jerry Schweickert assures us that golfing arrangements can be made for those interested. More arrangements will be forthcoming but if you are interesting in attending mark your calendar and contact either myself or Ryan Daley at JCU 216.397.4516. ... Marty Dempsey is organizing a one week rafting trip out west (probably Utah) in late June or early July that should be a very fun-filled and exciting experience. If you are interested, contact Marty to see if any slots are open. ... The Toronskis are alive and still working – Jack, part-time and Dianne, full-time. They are convinced it keeps them young. In October Dianne and some of her family including Tom Szarwark’s widow Rita, made a special trip to the land of their ancestors, Poland, which included a pilgrimage following the footsteps of Pope Paul II. ... Bonnie and I are off to Able Rock State Park, SC, to spend some time with Kathy and F.X. Walton and their family. Then it is on to Florida. First stop will be at the Breznais for some golf and good cheer with the JCU/Tampa crowd. Then we head over to the East Coast for fun and sun with the McFauls and the Beahans. From there we fly to Buenos Aires to spend the month of March with our oldest son, Joe, and his family. ... John Breznai reports that he heard from Dave Ross, who sends his regrets at not being able to join the Tampa crowd this year. He and his wife will be going to the Florida East Coast to visit with Jack Piatak in Ponte Vedra Beach. ... By the time you read this, the Chicago Bears may have won the Super Bowl, which is truly remarkable considering their inconsistent play on both sides of the ball – but we will take it! Hope you survive the winter – still waiting to hear from you. Peace, JB
   
fall 2006
In a very sad and ironic twist of fate, John Chuchman reports the death of his son, Mark, on July 24. Mark was 46 years old and a JCU class of ’82 graduate. John states that his son suffered much in life and never complained. He was truly a gentle man. After a distinguished career in the automotive industry, John has devoted his life to grief counseling and, in his own words, now walks the grief journey that he has walked with many others as pastoral bereavement educator and companion. John, be assured that you and Maureen and your family are in our thoughts and prayers as you attempt to cope with this tremendous loss. ... Congratulations to Don Hagerty who recently received the prestigious Circle of Distinction Sales Award for his work with Prudential Residenz, Realtors. Don has been specializing in the sale of houses, condominiums, and other residential properties for the past 15 years and is a well known realtor throughout Dayton’s southern suburbs. He and his wife, Phyllis, are residents of Centerville, OH, where they are active members of the Ketterings Central Christian Church and the Hithergreen Senior Center. ... On November 10 Nat Malizia’s sister, Philomena, is having a one year Memorial Mass said for her brother that will be attended by friends Bill Colson, Marty Dempsey, Duffy Moran, Roger Risher, Ed Doody, Jim Hill, Bill Marks, Tom McGann, Tom Tully, Jim Atten, John O’Brien, Mike Campo, Ken Rowley, and Jerry Burke. We will then adjourn to Nat’s favorite restaurant to raise a glass and honor the memory of a truly wonderful guy. ... A week later most of the group will gather again at Loyola University as the JCU Blue Streaks basketball team comes to Chicago to play our fellow-Jesuit school. We believe it will be the first time these two teams have met since our era. We are hoping for a large turnout of JCU alumni to root the Blue Streaks to victory over the Ramblers. ... Bonnie and I were guests of Tom and Ellen Tully for the ND-Stanford game a few weeks ago. We also had a chance to visits there with Tom McGann. He was anxious to get down to his new home in Florida, which he purchased last year. ... Think your financial overhead is high? The Tullys have three kids at Georgetown University this year. Retiring any time soon, Tom? ... Had to miss the Walton weekend this year because a friend was entering our high school Hall of Fame, but did get a call from John Breznai announcing that he again won the basketball free throw shooting contest with a perfect score. Of course, we were thrilled. ... Finally, I can conform that there is no truth to the rumor that the Cleveland Indians and Chicago Cubs are going to merge and move the new team to the Island of Manila – the new team to be called the Manila Folders. Stay warm. Would love to hear from you. Remember – this is your column. Peace, JB
   
summer 2006 Mike Campo checked in with a tribute to Nat Malizia who he described as one of the best people he had ever known. He recalled how Nat helped to guide him through some serious personal problems at JCU and later during law school, when his car wouldn’t start, how Nat would go out of his way to give him a lift. Years later, Mike bought a condo for his aged mother, only to discover that she had ignored the tax bills and was about to lose her property due to back taxes. Once again, Nat was there for him, guiding him through the process and making sure everything was done quickly and correctly. ... We just returned from a fun-filled weekend at Louise and Tom McGann’s – which has become a much-anticipated tradition. Carol and Joe Ruble and Mary and Ed Paglione came from New Jersey and Donna and John Breznai journeyed over from Ashtabula, OH. John hadn’t touched a golf club since undergoing serious heart surgery less than two months ago, but you would never have known it. Dolores and Paul Brust, however, get the gold star for traveling all the way from Scottsdale; AZ. Bill Colson joined us Saturday with Nat Malizia’s sister, Philomena and told us how proud he was that he could still beat all of his sons at golf. John Deagan was looking forward to attending and introducing everyone to his fiancée, but was a last minute cancellation when he experienced some complications from surgery and was instructed not to travel. John has had a history of serious health problems, so please keep him in your prayers. ... Mattie Matthews, Bob Fitzgerald ’60, Jerry O’Malley ’62 and Jerry Schweickert ’60 had lunch recently with the widow of Connie Pappas ’60. Connie had played football with them on the ’59/’60 undefeated team and had finally lost his battle with cancer. Mattie had stayed very close to Connie. The group presented Connie’s widow with a check from his old teammates, with letters of great memories and support. Hats off to Bob Fitzgerald for taking the lead in this thoughtful and worthwhile tradition. ... Speaking of the class of ’60, I received a call from Jim Mason after Nat Malizia’s death. We discussed the possibility of a joint ’59/’60 reunion. Jim and I both agreed that it would be fun and based on Jerry Schweickert’s enthusiastic endorsement, I am sure the Class of ’60 would be interested. Any thoughts or suggestions from the Class of ’59 would be appreciated. ... Go, White Sox! Peace, JB
   
spring 2006
Yes, Phil Cusick, I am alive and well, although when the due date for my last column arrived in January, I was in Washington, DC, and sick as a dog with bronchitis and in no shape to submit a column. We had just returned from a cruise with Cathy and F.X. Walton to celebrate their 45th wedding anniversary and decided to visit our son and his family in our nation’s capital before heading home. Unfortunately, my health did not cooperate. ... Sadly, our class lost one of its really good guys with the passing of Nat Malizia, who died of a heart attack. Many of the Class of ’59 were in attendance at Nat’s funeral to pay their respects, including Nat’s close friends Bill Colson, Tom Tully, Ed Doody, Marty Dempsey, Jerry Burke, Rog Risher, Duffy Moran, and Mike Campo. The funeral eulogy was given by Nat’s brother Jerry ’60, who did a terrific job. Any additional thoughts on Nat would be much appreciated. ... We lost another good friend of Nat’s who attended law school with him at Northwestern University with the death of “Mendotta Flash” Jim Phelan, who died of cancer in Washington, DC. Jim had a long and distinguished career with the Pentagon before joining the private sector. Our class was represented at his funeral by his close friend Duffy Moran who had known Jim since they both attended Campion High School in Wisconsin before attending JCU. They were also the best men in each other’s weddings. ... Two members of our class also lost their mothers. Tom Tully’s mother died at the age of 105 and F.X. Walton’s mother left us at age 102. They were both blessed with good genes as well as loving and caring sons. ... Mike Campo understands that to most of us this is old stuff, but he reports that his daughter just presented him and wife Lynda with their first granddaughter. They are thrilled to death. ... Betty and Louis Kastelic are alive and well and residing in Silver Springs, MD, where Louis is president of Jordan-Crandus, PA. They have three children – Anthony, Ann and Ellen. ... Ed De Voy and wife Marilyn live in Hartford, NY. Ed is retired after a distinguished career as a psychologist/registered nurse at the Mohawk Valley Psychiatric Center. They have six children. ... Mattie Mathews checked in to say thanks for the JCU jacket that Bill Marks, F.X. Walton, Dave Nichting ’60, Gerry Porter ’58 and myself gave him to celebrate his being inducted into his high school’s Hall of Fame. Special thanks to Dave Nichting for taking the lead on this. ... We had nice visits this last winter with Barbara and Bill Beahan in Coral Springs, FL, and Wendy and Bob McFaul who had just moved permanently to Wellington, FL, on the East Coast. We then journeyed over to the Breznai’s on the West Coast. We enjoyed playing golf with the Donna and John Breznai, Louise and Tom McGann, and Ed Paglione. We also enjoyed a luncheon date with this group who were joined by Mary Paglione, and Carolyn and Joe Ruble. ... John Breznai is having a heart valve replaced and then is off to Hungary to visit the land of his ancestors. ... Joe Ruble, Bill Marks and Tom McGann recently treated Pete Pucher ’60 to a round of golf. They were joined by the Pagliones, Carolyn Ruble, Ann Marks, and Louise McGann for dinner to celebrate Pete’s birthday. Joe Ruble presented Pete with a Rolex watch. Joe was able to obtain this watch at a wake he recently attended. He claimed the previous owner was no longer able to tell time. Pete was overwhelmed by this act of kindness and claimed that he was never treated this well by his Cleveland friends. ... In reviewing this column, it sounds like this was written for a medical journal. Let’s see if we can’t come up with some more uplifting, positive news for the next newsletter! ... Stay well. Peace, JB
   
fall 2005
Jack Toronski called with some sad news. After a long struggle with heart and lung problems, Tom Szarwark passed away on September 12 in Chesapeake, VA. Jack’s wife Dianne and Tom’s wife Rita are first cousins. Tom had contacted me to let me know that he was probably not going to be able to attend our last reunion, but indeed he and wife Rita did show up. It was only when we walked from Mass to the class picture and he had to stop and rest that I realized how weakened and vulnerable he had become. He was a man of great faith who fought the good fight as long as he could. Tom was involved for many years with the JCU alumni recruiting program (JP – do you think he means alumni in admission) when he lived in Pittsburgh and played an important role in making that program the most successful one in the country. Our class has lost a very special person. ... Leland Hall checked in to let us know that “Sweet Face” is still alive and well and living in Florida. Lee received his Ph.D. in Mental Health Administration in 1975 and since 1987 has been a professor at the Union Institute which is classified as a “college without walls.” He recently retired but still helps out as a consultant. ... Marty Dempsey and I made the trip from Chicago to JCU recently for the Mount Union football game. We were joined by Frank Dempsey ’60 and Dave Nichting ’60 who gave us a tour of the new football stadium facilities. Everything was fun except the score of the game. ... Dave Nichting also plans to join us as Bill Marks, F.X. Walton and I journey over to Auburn, NY, to attend the Auburn High School Hall of Fame Induction of Leon “Mattie” Matthews. If Mattie performed as well in high school as he did on the JCU gridiron, this is a much-deserved honor. ... Bonnie and I had dinner recently with Bill and Barbara Beahan, who were in from Florida for the Notre Dame/USC football game. A good time was had by all! ... Tomorrow we plane over to Washington, D.C., for the swearing-in ceremony of our oldest son, Joe, into the U.S. Foreign Service. After training in Washington, D.C., he will be stationed in Buenos Aires, Argentina with his wife Danielle and their two children. ... Our thanks to the editor for including my picture in the recent article on Chicago-area residents. It was undeserved, but helped make up a little bit for my being dethroned as free-throw-shooting champ by John Breznai at the recent Walton weekend in South Carolina as guests of F.X. and Cathy Walton. I also knew that I was in trouble when Paul Brust called and asked to speak to “Sparky.” ... Hopefully, by the time you read this, the Chicago White Sox will have won the World Series. The last time they participated was the year we graduated – 1959. Stay warm ... Peace, JB
 
summer 2005
John Curry checked in with some very important news. It seems the Army Transportation Corps, which at one time included all of our JCU ROTC officers, has moved from Fort Eustis, VA, to Fort Lee, VA. ... John, who made a career in the military, spent three years at Fort Eustis starting in 1974 as the resident training management director – whatever that means. He has many fond memories of this military base. John also reports that his son, Chris, who is currently stationed in Alaska as a cavalry scout platoon sergeant, will be headed to Iraq in August. I am sure I speak for all of our class when I wish him a safe return. ... Also, on behalf of our class, I want to offer a fond farewell and congratulations to outgoing President Rev. Edward Glynn, SJ, for his tremendous contribution to the university. I was singularly impressed with his unpretentious manner. I will also never forget his enthusiasm, along with the athletic director, Tony DeCarlo ’66G in posing for a picture with me, Marty Dempsey, Paul Brust, Bill Marks, and Ed Paglione. He helped hold up our Thursday Night Study Club banner after the Muhlenberg football play off game in November 2002. Well done, Father Ed. ... Tom Brunn sends along yet another death notice from the Cleveland Plain Dealer. This one is for Denny Bixler who was with us briefly at JCU. Denny died from injuries following an unexplained accident in Fort Lauderdale in April. He resided in St. Petersburg where he was a yacht broker. Denny had a very interesting career that included being the White House liaison at the NATO 50th anniversary in Washington, D.C. May he rest in peace. ... We have just concluded a very successful “McGann” weekend as guests of Tom and Louise McGann. The group included the Brusts (who flew in from Arizona), the Breznais, the Pagliones, Leon Matthews, the Rishers, the Malizias, Bill Colson, the Marks, John Deagan and his much improved golf game. We were also joined this year by M.T. and Mike Geraci, who are now retired and promised this won’t be their last appearance. ... The news has been a little scarce lately so I would humbly solicit your cooperation to inform us as to what is going on in your world. Hope everyone is having a great summer. Peace, JB
 
spring 2005
Nick Antonazzo and wife Donna journeyed over to our nation’s capital recently where Nick was admitted to the U.S. Supreme Court. Nick said it was a great honor and thrill to see the workings of the court. They also visited the new World War II Memorial which he described as “very impressive.” The Antonazzos look forward to their annual Hilton Head getaway with their entire family, which includes nine grandchildren. They are also planning a fall trip to Fatima and Lourdes. Nick still works as a consultant to the Pennsylvania Real Estate Investment Trust. ... In February Bonnie and I went out to Scottsdale, AZ, to visit Paul and Dolores Brust at their new home in the desert. We also got to spend some time with Jerry McGivern, who spends his winters in the area. ... While out there, we had lunch at Harold’s Cave Creek Corral in Cave Creek, AZ, which has become well known as a “home away from home” for displaced Pittsburgh Steelers fans to watch their beloved Steelers on TV. Over 1400 Steeler fans crowded into Harold’s to watch the Steelers/New York Jets playoff game. Pittsburgh mayor Tom Murphy sent a letter to Cave Creek mayor Vincent Francia, praising the restaurant for supporting the Steelers. Turns out Tom Murphy and Vincent Francia are long-time friends -- they attended John Carroll together (both class of ’67) and served in the Peace Corps in Paraguay thirty-five years ago. ... Next we headed south to join Tom and Louise McGann and Bill and Ann Marks. We also got to visit Joe and Carolyn Ruble and spent a few days with John and Donna Breznai. Tom McGann, Joe Ruble and I also got to attend one of John Breznai’s famous Tampa Bay luncheons which included Jeff Rogo ’72, Jack Lyons ’60, Pete Pucher ’60, Don Podnar ’58, and retired chemistry professor, Jim Walsh. Jack Toronski was supposed to join us, but he was called back home for personal reasons. Seems like half our class is succumbing to the lure of Florida. The McGanns and Pagliones recently purchased part time homes in the Tampa area. Bob and Wendy McFaul are moving to the east coast. ... Speaking of moving, Jack Ryan checked in to report that once again he has moved. He had a cup of coffee in Coral Springs, FL, before spending a few months in Virginia and has now located to Hilton Head, SC, where he has started an insect repellent business. (Bonnie is still convinced that he is “CIA.”) ... When the only hospital in Batavia, NY, threatened to close for financial reasons, the local Rotary Club came up with a unique fund-raising effort. They marketed a calendar featuring 13 pillars of the community wearing a few strategically placed props and not much else. Mr. March (Dennis Dwyer ’85, age 42), a shoe store co-owner, was chided by his minister for posing behind a pair of size 17 wing tips. This sounds suspiciously like the son of our own Tom Dwyer. Mr. June is John Gerace, which just might be our own John “Sam” Gerace. Some further explanation is due here, Dweasel. ... I get to point the car south again in a few weeks as the Dempseys, McGanns, Marks, Breznais, Burkes and Mattie Matthews join F.X. and Kathy Walton on the Chattanooga River for some white-water rafting. ... Have a great summer and remember – it takes only a few minutes to e-mail me. Peace, JB
 
winter 2005
It took 35 years, but on October 22, 2004, Bill Marks was finally inducted into the JCU Athletic Hall of Fame for his efforts on behalf of the JCU football program. It was an honor that was long overdue. Bill averaged 5.7 yards per carry during his career, which is the third best in JCU history. His single season average per carry of 6.3 yards in 1959 also ranked fourth all-time at JCU. Like his teammates F.X. Walton and Leon Matthews, Bill played a major role on JCU’s first undefeated season in 1959 before being drafted by the New York Titans. ... Thanks to the generosity of Bill Beahan, Jerry Burke, John Breznai, Tom Brunn, Paul Brust, Marty Dempsey, Tom Dwyer, Mike Geraci, Nat Malizia, Leon Matthews, Tom McGann, Jerry McGivern, Ed Paglione, Gerry Porter ’58, Roger Risher, Joe Ruble, Tom Tully, and F.X. Walton we were able to take out a full page ad for Bill in the Hall of Fame dinner program. We also placed an ad in the weekly football program and still had money left over to make a generous donation to the Blue Gold Club on behalf of Bill. Bill and Ann Marks were joined by Jack Hyland, Jack Toronski, Mattie Mathews, F.X. Walton, Chuck Schmitzer, John Breznai, Tom Dwyer, Ed Paglione, Mike and M.T. Geraci, Tom Brunn, Tom and Louise McGann, Jerry and Mary Beth McGivern, Paul and Dolores Brust, Bonnie and Jerry Burke, for this special evening. The following day the Brusts threw their own farewell party prior to their move to Arizona. Everyone enjoyed a brunch and wished them well in their new home. An added attraction for Bill was that he got to see his grandson, Noah, a freshman at JCU, play in the Homecoming Football Game. The weekend was capped off by a party at the home of Gerry and Miriam ’62G Porter after Saturday’s football game. We were joined by fellow columnist Jerry Schweickert ’60 who explained how bad he felt that his wife had to file suit against John Breznai after being launched from John’s moving golf cart at the Breznai summer golf tournament. John has never been a good loser. (By the way, welcome aboard, Jerry.) Special thanks to the Porters, who went above and beyond by throwing this party two weeks after Gerry underwent hip replacement surgery. Special thanks also to Tom McGann for getting us a special rate at the local Holiday Inn. It was truly a memorable weekend. ... One month later we had what felt like another JCU homecoming at the wedding reception of our daughter, Barbara. We were joined by Bill and Barbara Beahan from Florida, F. X. and Cathy Walton from South Carolina, Ed and Mary Paglione from New Jersey, Mattie Mathews from New York, Tom and Louise McGann from Michigan, Bill and Ann Marks from Indianan, Roger and Edy Risher, Bob and Wendy McFaul, Marty and Davy Dempsey, Paul and Dolores Brust, Jim and June Hill, Tom Tully, for a fun-filled evening. ... No e-mail news for this issue. Hope you had a good winter and are thawed out enough to drop us a line and let us know what is going on in your world. Peace ... JB
   
fall 2004
Tom Brunn sent an interesting article from the Cleveland Plain Dealer regarding our own Tom O’Toole. Tom and his wife, Joanne, work as freelance travel writers and photographers and have been Cleveland Indians season ticket holders for 37 years. Since the Indians moved to Jacobs Field in 1994, Tom decided to spice things up by wearing a different Indian’s hat for each inning and has become a local celebrity as “Tom (the Hat Man) O’Toole.” Way to go, Tom! ... John Curry complained that he had not received any information on our last reunion. John, perhaps if you had called before the reunion ... I do recall John calling ten years ago and assuring me he was coming, but failed to materialize, so he remains consistent. John, retired, remains in Newport News, Virginia with wife Julie and stays active as the resident historian and curator. He has written books on the history of the area and used to have his own radio program before he was “bumped” by Howard Stern. Let’s try again in five years, John. I know you can do it! ... Alan Tokunaga reports from Hawaii that Jimmy Hirotsu has retired from military service as a lieutenant colonel and lives in Spokane, Washington. He and Naga correspond often by e-mail. Sadly, George Ruiz passed away in Seattle in February. ... Don Muroki is retired and living in Ankeny, Iowa, where he stays close to home. Naga could not talk him into joining him and other high school friends for a high school reunion in Las Vegas, Nevada. Naga himself has been retired since 1994 but golfs, walks and rides his bike. He did give assurance he would attend the 50th, but still wants it held in Hawaii. ... Bob Shipka was looking forward to the reunion, but his wife’s recent back surgery prevented her from traveling. Bob reports that his health is good but he did have heart by-pass surgery in April. (With Carolyn Ruble’s recent knee replacement surgery and Tom Tully’s upcoming hip replacement, I am starting to wonder if any of our group still has all their original body parts.) Ship runs a small government consulting practice but plans to retire soon. He has eight grandchildren who keep him very busy going to sporting events. ... Tom Szarwark retired in October of ’02. He and wife Rita moved from Pittsburgh to Chesapeake, Virginia where their youngest daughter and two grandsons reside. Tom had very serious lung surgery in 2001 and has required extensive medical treatment, but continues to do well. ... Mike Campo also checked in with apologies for not attending the reunion but claims that he received no information. Mike, I will personally make sure you get notification of the 50th. For 39 years Mike ran a very successful travel agency, primarily booking junkets to Las Vegas. He closed the agency in November 2001. He and wife Lynda have two children, Traci (29) and Chris (27), who are both active in real estate. The Campos divide time between their homes in Wheaton, Illinois and Naples, Florida. They would love to get together with JCU classmates. ... While my requests for participation in this column have not met my expectations, Art Granzeier certainly went above and beyond. He knocked on my door. Art, who was a Parma, Ohio dayhop at JCU, recently, discovered that we were practically neighbors and decided to drop in - I am glad he did. Art received his M.S.W. at Loyola University in Chicago after JCU. He has worked in Chicago off and on in the field of social work. We had a very nice visit. Bonnie and I look forward to getting together with him and his wife Helen in the near future. ... Stay warm and keep in touch! Peace, JB
   
summer 2004
Our 45th JCU Reunion is now history and it certainly appeared that a great time was had by all. The Reunion did not officially start until Friday, but a group of us came over on Thursday for an early kick-off. Bull Beahan flew to Chicago from Florida and the Burkes, Brusts and Bill drove to Cassopolis, MI where we boarded the McGann motor home with Tom and Louise McGann for the rest of our journey. We were joined on our campus by John and Donna Breznai, Dr. John Deagan, Tom and Janet Dwyer, Mike and M.T. Geraci, Bill and Ann Marks, Leon Matthews, Jerry and Mary Beth McGivern, Ed and Mary Paglione, Roger and Edy Risher, Joe and Carolyn Ruble, and Dr. F.X. and Cathy Walton. ... JCU provided us with two vans and JCU drivers for the night that started with a great cocktail party at the home of our reunion chairman: Tom Brunn and his wife, Connie. We were joined there by JCU professor Dr. Joe Miller and his wife, Helen, Fred and Merici Kramer and Dr. Leland Hall, who journey up from Lauderhill Florida for his first reunion. Our next destination was Mick’s Pub in Willoughby where we were joined by JCU football coach Regis Scafe, basketball coach Mike Moran and JCU’s new athletic director Laurie Massa who comes to JCU from the University of South Carolina. Paul Brust had special beer mugs made up to honor Bill Marks, who will be inducted in the JCU Sports Hall of Fame in October. It was also a treat to spend some time with Dave Nichting ’60 who continues to be a real JCU booster. ... University President Fr. Edward Glynn, SJ welcomed us all back to the campus on Friday and was very proud to announce that JCU had just completed the most successful fund raising effort in the school’s history. He expressed his gratitude for all who participated. This was followed by a delightful president’s reception cocktail party where we were joined by Tom and Dolores Barrowman, Rick and Mary Jo Dodson, Gary Furin, Rita and Bob Martin, Paul and Maria Moon, Don and Joanne Palmer, Bob D’Alessandro, Dave and Mary Ross, Jack and Dianne Toronski, and Dr. Jim and Sylvia Witting. Also in attendance were Lucy Rivera who attended night school and traveled all the way from Stanton, CA, and Marty and Davy Dempsey. We also visited with Marty’s brother Frank ’60 who is now a professor at JCU and got to meet his new bride, Mary Pat. Saturday started with a river cruise and lunch on the Nautica Queen. I was thrilled to have Dr. Pete Fegen and wife Carol as my personal tour guide pointing out many points of interest. We attended Mass at Gesu parish where Rev. Wes Toles read the names of our deceased classmates in a very moving ceremony. Next we gathered for the class picture and then the Saturday night cocktail party and dinner. Professor Joe Millor gave us a JCU update at dinner and we even got our class president, Bob Martin, to say a few words. Luci Rivera got the prize for coming the farthest and was in delightful company. She came to Cleveland from the Philippines and ended up at JCU night school almost by accident. Her professor had to help her with rides home because the buses stopped running before class ended. She continues to work as a counselor at the LA county mental health department and plans to eventually return to the Philippines and set up her own clinic. My bet is she’ll pull it off. We sat with Tom Barrowman and Rick Dodson, who have both retired after military careers. Both looked like poster boys for military service as they seem to have forgotten to age. Speaking of the military, one of the things I regret about our dinner is that we did not recognize Jack Piatak and his wife, Clare. Jack recently retired from the army as a two star general, which I think all would agree is no small accomplishment. He served two tours of duty in Vietnam and during the first Gulf War was in charge of all United States ports. He and his wife, Clare, currently reside in Jacksonville, FL. ... To my mind everyone who attended deserves special recognition but space does not permit plus my memory has slipped to new lows. It was great to see Leland Hall who looks great. It was also great to see Gary Furin who drove straight thru from Atlanta. Despite some serious health problems Tom and Rita Szarwark joined us from Virginia. Tom’s positive attitude is an inspiration. John Deagan lost his wife to cancer some years ago leaving him with twelve children. He is also a recent kidney transplant recipient -- But he looks great and continues to survive. Say a prayer for Bob D’Alessandro’s wife Barbara who is suffering from a very serious liver aliment. ... Let me close by offering thanks, on behalf of all of us, to Tom Brunn who once again did a great job as reunion chairman. Many thanks also to JCU reunion coordinator Rosalie Massey who was always there for us. Rosalie, you are a true credit to the university. We cannot thank you enough. Peace, J.B.
   
spring 2004
Attention: Class of ’59 – Reunion Alert! Our 45th reunion is literally right around the corner (June 18-20th) but it is still not too late to register and join the fun. You can even register online. We are assigned to Millor Hall which is air conditioned but if you choose to stay off campus or have any questions call reunion coordinator Rosalie Massey at 216-397-3014 or rmassey@jcu.edu and she will be happy to assist you. ... The reunion doesn’t start this year until Friday, June 18 but a group of us are planning on going back Thursday, June 17, if you are interested in joining us please contact me or Rosalie so that arrangements can be made to stay on campus. ... I have been amazed recently how friends and former classmates seem to feel the need to reunite with their past. JCU gatherings in Chicago have been remarkably well attended – and early indications are that this will be the biggest reunion turn out we’ve ever had. So pick up the phone and call an old friend from our class that you haven’t seen for a while and let them know you will be attending reunion and would love to see them. Maybe all it takes is a call from you. The reunion committee consists of chairman Tom Brunn, Jerry Burke, John Chuchman, Bob D’Alessandro, Pete Fegen, John Grady, Jack Hyland, Fred Kramer, Paul Moon, Ed Paglione, Don Palmer, Tom Scanlon, Wesley Toles, and Dave Washtock. ... I was shocked to discover that we have lost 54 members of our class since graduation. While the names are too numerous to mention here I do want to pay special tribute to a friend and special person, Dale Brown, who we lost in March of last year. Dale was a former president of the Lake County Bar Association and the Catholic Big Brothers of Greater Cleveland. He was extremely active in his legal profession, his community and his church. He was also someone who was loved and respected by all who knew him. I was also saddened to discover the death of Dick Delaney who was another of the truly good guys of our class. Perhaps you would like to personally pay tribute to one of our classmates who have left us. You will be given the opportunity to do so at the Saturday night dinner -- or write or e-mail me to have it included in our Alumni Journal ’59 column. The names of the deceased will also be read at our Saturday evening Mass by Wesley Toles. ... If you haven’t returned for a while you will be impressed with the physical improvements and how they have expanded while maintaining the charm of our compacted campus. Come see the new Don Shula Football Stadium, the Boler School of Business, and the magnificent new Dolan Center for Science and Technology that is the envy of the academic community. ... Rick Dodson will be there. Rick has retired from military service but still resides in Chester, VA. In 1981 Rick received an MBA from the Florida Institute of Technology. He and wife, Mary Jo, have four children – Rick Jr. (40), Kathleen (39), Kevin (35) and Anne (31). One of Rick’s favorite JCU memories was his involvement with the Pershing Rifles thru ROTC. ... Elias Abood will also be on hand. Elias and wife Norma currently reside in Massillon, OH. They have three children – Nathan (35), Dany (32), and Hany (30). Elias reports that he can’t wait to see everyone at the up coming reunion. ... The Brusts, Breznais, Burkes, Marks, McGanns, McGiverns, Pagliones, and Rubles were off to sea again in March on a Caribbean cruise to the Panama Canal. A good time was had by all and all look forward to the reunion. ... I hope everyone is enjoying good health and their retirement or whatever else they are choosing to do. See you in June. Peace ... J.B.
   
winter 2004
The Thursday Nite Study Club’s name will be permanently placed on the Kresge Challenge Donor Wall thanks to donations by Paul Brust, Jerry Burke, John Breznai, Tom McGann, Bill Marks, F.X. Walton, Joe Ruble, Tom Brunn, Marty Dempsey, Gerry McGivern, Tom Dwyer, Mike Geraci, Ed Paglione, Tom Tully, Bob McFaul, Bill Beahan, Al Tokunaga and Jack Ryan. – Thanks to all of you. ... Can you believe its time, once again for, the class of ’59 reunion. On June 18-20 we celebrate 45 years since graduation from our beloved J.C.U. and it’s definitely time to return to the campus and renew the special friendships and relationships that we made. Chairman Tom Brunn, the committee, and JCU reunion coordinator, Rosalie Massey, have been working very hard to insure that a good time is had by all. We’re looking for a good turn out. (Leland Hall will be there and after some very serious surgery John Deagan looks forward to attending) but it won’t be the same if you’re not there. As Tom Brunn says “Come on back before you get on that list that no one wants to get on.” ... Please join us, you’ll be glad you did. Peace ... JB
   
spring 2003
On May 11, 2002 John Sheldon Lloyd married Carol Marie Lally Bang after a one-year long distance courtship. They met in first grade in 1940 but it took John sixty years to work up the courage to ask her on a date. Actually, they were both recently widowed and between them have four children and six grandchildren. Heartiest congratulations, John! What a great story. John received his Ph.D. at Case Western Reserve and recently retired from Loyola University Chicago Stritch school of Medicine. He is enjoying living back in the Cleveland area after a 34-year absence. … Nick Antonazzo and his Donna were engaged at our senior year military ball and married in August of ’59 with the late John Reardon, Jim Atten, Ron Tipul and Rege Stafford in attendance. They have four daughters and nine grandchildren. Nick attended the University of Richmond Law School before returning to his beloved Johnstown, PA. He has been employed for 35 years as general counsel for Crown American Realty Trust which operates shopping centers in the East and South. He recalls that his only Thursday Night Study Club activity at JCU was to track down “Doc” Bender so they could drive back to Altoona for the weekend. He promises to attend our next reunion and is issuing a “Nick” challenge to others out there to send in some news like he did. … Speaking of Johnstown PA, Marty Dempsey, Paul Brust, Bill Marks and I drove 12 hours to Johnstown in November to watch the JCU football team defeat Muhlenberg in the Division III playoffs. All of us should be very proud of this squad that made it all the way to the final four. … Bonnie and I arrived in Florida a few days early for the group Caribbean Cruise to spend some time with Bill and Barbara Beahan. While there, we got to watch the super bowl with our man of mystery, Jack Ryan and his JoAnne. The Ryans have re-surfaced in Coral Springs, FL and hopefully will join us at a group gathering on the West Cost of Florida in mid March. … John Breznai called to let us know that Dave Ross will be joining us and Ed Coyne checked in to remind us that he and Tom Hoban are interested in being included. A golf outing is planned and Paul and Dolores Brust will also be hosting a shrimp boil party. So far this retirement life doesn’t seem too bad. Have a great spring and remember the “Nick” Challenge. Peace … J.B
   
winter 2003
John Chuchman continues splitting his time between Arizona and Northern Michigan, and claims it does not hamper his grief work at all. He conducts grief support groups, hospice caregiver training, workshops, and lectures on grief. He also does seminars and retreats for church groups in both locations. He has also written two very successful books and is just completing a third. Contact him at his Web site -- John Chuchman poetman@freeway.net ... Mike Geraci checked in to inquire about my prostate surgery. Michael, I did indeed have the prostate removed. The good news is I am now cancer free. The interesting news is that they biopsied the prostate after surgery and found no cancer. (Anyone know a good malpractice attorney?) Mike also enjoyed the group photo in the last journal issue and inquired if Paul Brust has joined the 20th century and purchased a computer with an e-mail address. Mike claims to have backlog of East Texas jokes to send him. ... Ken Rowley also enjoyed the photo and wanted to know if the unidentified person to the far left is John O’Brien. Yes it is Ken, but the person to contact is Roger Risher. It seems the university recently received a letter over Roger’s signature demanding to know who that unidentified person is. The letter voiced strong concern that he could be a terrorist. Roger is in denial and we all know John O’Brien would not do anything that petty and deceitful, so it remains a mystery. ... Paul Moon reports he spent a month last summer in Europe with his two daughters. Daughter Laura spent a semester at the University of Frieburg in Germany before graduating with honors from Denison University. She next returns to Germany to teach English on a Fulbright Teaching Assistantship. Doesn’t sound like dad is too proud! ... Daughter Elizabeth will be a member of the class of 2008 at JCU. If my math is correct, that makes her around 16-years old, which automatically makes us all very proud of Paul. Paul is unopposed for his last 6-year term as Judge of the Ottawa County Common Pleas Court. Upon completion, he will have been a judge for 28 years. ... Thank you to the professor, Phil Cusick, who checks in from Michigan State University with a good thought regarding my surgery. Phil, I know the next reunion is 2 years away, but I feel it is not too soon to start nagging you. Your presence is mandatory. ... Dave Ross was delighted to hear about the Florida winter gatherings. He and Mary are down in Indian Shores (west of Tampa) for the month of February, and hope to get involved. Dave reports he is always looking for someone to play golf with and would appreciate hearing of anyone who might be in the area. Dave, there should be a bunch of us nearby this winter so stay tuned. Dave also keeps in touch with Roger Risher and reports he just got a note from Bob Manzella. ... The McGann weekend set a new record for attendance and we are delighted to learn that Tom and Louise are also going to join us for the first time for the “Walton” weekend in South Carolina. ... Bill and Ann Marks came up with a great bargain for the Caribbean Cruise so in January the Marks, Waltons, McGiverns, Rubles, Pagliones, Breznais, Brusts, McGann and Burkes are sea bound again. ... Remember e-mail provides an easy and convenient way to stay in touch. Hope you had a great summer! ... Peace, J.B.
   
spring 2002 Greetings from the Windy City! ... Had a nice long chat with Leland Hall, who followed up on his previous e-mail. Leland talked about many things including how he ended up at JCU and how the devastating loss of his mother almost caused him to flunk out. He eventually was forced to drop out of school for a while, but came back to graduate and went on to earn his Ph.D. Leland’s athletic career at JCU clearly had its ups and downs, but for anyone doubting his athletic ability, let me pose the following question: Who still holds the individual game basketball record for rebounds? The answer -- Leland Hall -- 26 vs. Allegheny College on 1-12-59 (this information compliments of our favorite immigration atty., Gary Furin). Guess whose record he broke? You guessed it, Gary Furin, who earlier that season tied the previous record of Bob Eckert ’56, at 25 rebounds. Gary also reminded me that Lee was high point man in that game with 23 points. Sweet Face, after all this good press, you darn well better show up at the next reunion. My final sports question: Am I the only one who thinks Jack Hyland would make an awfully good candidate for the JCU Sports Hall of Fame? ... It appears the class of ’59 has been well represented this winter on Florida’s West Coast. On February 20th Paul and Dolores Brust, Joe and Carolyn Ruble, Tom and Louise McGann, and Bill and Ann Marks joined John and Donna Breznai at a dinner reception for the JCU Tampa Bay alumni association. Paul reports it was a delightful affair and a good time was had by all. ... On February 25th, a little further south down the road, Ed Coyne (a full time Bonita Springs resident), Bob D’Alessandro and Dave Washtock ’60 (winter residents of Bonita Springs) joined Tom Hoban (a full time resident of North Naples) and Dennis Fagan (a winter resident of Fort Myers), for some lunch and good cheer. They had such a great time reminiscing over their JCU years that they agreed to continue these gatherings once a month during the Florida winter season (November-April) and they invite any classmates who might be in the area to join them. You can reach Bob D’Alessandro at 239-947-0049 during winter season or via e-mail at RNDAL@aol.com. ... Of course, if you find yourself on the East Coast of Florida Coral Springs, be sure to stop in and say hi to Bill and Barbara Beahan. Bill checked in to wish me well on some upcoming surgery and reports that he may have turned the corner on his 20-year struggle to quit smoking. ... Hope your winter was as mild as ours -- Stay in touch! Peace! J.B.
   
 

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