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50-Year Reunion -- 1965 -- McAuley High
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Click here check out the Facebook Page that Rod Harsh has set up for the reunion. |
Agenda RecapFriday
Saturday
Sunday
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Planning for 2025(Dave Tuttle Has it Planned)Click here to View Dave's Agenda |
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The Thing That Impressed Me The MostThis may take you a few days to read... there is no timeline or response needed... but so many good things happened this weekend that it may even take me a few days to write about our weekend. I hope you had as much fun as I did. I was a bit stressed out, not knowing what to expect, but I was blown away by the way everything came together. As I watched the events unfold I was constantly in awe at how comfortable everyone was and how quickly we reconnected. I think that the biggest surprise (a nice surprise) is that, after 50 years, we can connect so easily and chat as old friends. It wasn't like some party at the neighbor's house where we struggle to find things to talk about with their other invited guests. Instead, it was an "OMG, I didn't recognize you but I am so happy to see you!" And then we began talking about teachers and pranks and basketball games. There were absolutely no important glitches... we really didn't need coffee and pastry at the gym. And at the bar after the reunion David and I were wondering "did we give a prize for oldest classmate?" We didn't remember, but we knew that it didn't matter. What mattered was that we all got to see each other and catch up on the journey that we have taken to get to this point. And at no time did I think to myself (as I usually do in a crowd) "what do I talk about?" The conversations just flowed. List of AttendeesTwenty-One Classmates and 13 spouses returned: Jim Atkinson (Hazel), Frank Barchak (Glenda), Jane Braeckel Kutz (Leroy), Donna Dicharry Giger, Joe Fenske (Vicki), Bill Gory, Dianna Lichty Gory, Rod Harsh (Barbara), Linda Hendricks Duncan (Steve), Kirk Land (Jan), Denny Laster (Judy), Jane Meyer Kryska, Alyce Moss Flaherty (Mick), Kathaleen Prince Rios, Bob Reynolds, Ron Richard (Patty), Glenda Riley Rucker, Bob Shryock (Jeanne), David Tuttle (Carol), Tom Williams, Linda Wolf Yonkers (Bob). Patrick Tuttle (class of '66) also attended as a guest speaker. Quick Financial Summary:Thanks to the generosity of all of you we had enough to pay for all of our expenses plus a bit left over. One reason we had a bit left over was that Dianne and Bill donated the cost of the picnic... Rod Harsh donated the DJ music, his video skills and his knowledge of Joplin for the bus tour. Linda Hendricks Duncan donated the paintings (which resulted in $220 to help with expenses). Dave donated months of preparation and scripting time... Bob R. donated the bottle-cap roses and the books with folded pages... Mike Dunn and Chuck Roderique supplied us with the scanned images and yearbook pages (thanks guys... we are working on plans to get together again when you might be able to attend... more on that later). Patrick Tuttle supplied us with gift bags, name-tag lanyards, Joplin information and the photo/name inserts so that we might remember what we looked like 50 years ago. Our guest speakers impressed the chef and the wait-staff. They were all wondering how we were able to collar both the Director of Joplin Tourism and the top Senator for Missouri. And Dave Tuttle donated his talents as Master of Ceremonies, Trivia Game Organizer and Skit Director. He spent months of time writing and re-writing everything (Carol said that he would announce that a task was complete but then she would find him editing it the next day). A Master of Ceremonies, DJ, two Guest Speakers and a tour director would have busted our budget. But thanks to the above contributions and the generosity of several classmates (there were several $100 bills in the collection jar and we received several checks with even larger numbers) we ended up with a surplus. Yes... after all bills were paid, we had $153 left over. As David and I sat in the bar after the event was over and figured out which bills we could afford to pay, we were glad to see that we could pay ALL of our bills and we still had some left over. I suggested that we buy beer for everyone in the bar as a celebration but David suggested that the $153 should be a contribution to St. Peters for their Mass for our deceased classmates. David Tuttle is one Classy Guy! And I know that as you all read this, you are all in agreement that "That is Perfect!" Seriously perfect. "Warm My Heart" perfect. And a special thanks to Denny. As the evening was winding down he wrote me a note "How much more money do you need to cover costs?... just give me a number and I will take care of it." I gave him a number. He took care of it. Such Kindness! Such Love for each other. So... here is a numerical recap:
Aside: In the future, we might ask if we could use a couple of the empty rooms at the old St. Peters elementary school or the Knights of Columbus hall. We could probably reduce our meal costs by $600. Total Donated (and paid-at-the-door for meals): All of the above plus $153.During the Mass Sunday morning, Linda Duncan put the envelope of $153 (your money... your donations... your gift... your sign of love for our deceased classmates) into the collection plate. Thank you all. Our parents would be proud of us. The list of deceased classmates that we are aware of included: Diane Climer, Robert Fenske, Tom Hood, Edgar Pachlhofer, Patrick Randall, Tom Rawlings, Kathy Ryan, Phillip Warden, Patty Woodruff. A Few Highlights From My Perspective:You are all so humble. Joe Fenske mentioned that he "has a few cows." From what I have heard, Joe is a Real Cowboy. He has cattle in 3 states. Ron Richard tried to give the impression that he got to where he is because he didn't have any competition from anyone as talented and qualified as Denny. We all know that it took years of service and community activity (jobs, economic development, caring for the constituents) to get to where he is. Frank Barchak mentioned that "this reunion... and all of you... are like family... we are more than friends." And he had the crazily insane story about the time Ms. A'Hearn arrived at his door ready to go to a Hootenanny. Jane Meyer Kryska asked to be the first to speak because she wanted to get it over with so she could relax and listen to the other classmates. Her presentation was priceless and heartbreaking. We all felt for her and admired her strength. Several talked about their military experience (in all branches). Honestly, we ALL salute you for your service. I worked like crazy to get deferments and then got a high lottery number. I was fortunate. You sacrificed and took great risks. And a couple of you came out of the war with Agent Orange disabilities (Jimmy Perrin and Frank Blinzler if my memory is correct). We all admire what you did and no amount of thanks can be enough thanks. Some of you ended up with diverse interests. Rod Harsh ran a security company in Florida and is now director of the Route 66 Chamber of Commerce. He was also instrumental in reminding the community that the Low Water Bridge is both symbolic and safe. Glenda Riley Rucker sings in (and organizes) Barbershop Quartet events and is part of the well-known Sweet Adeline's singing group. She was one of our early encouragers for the reunion and, while I didn't remind her of the following event in my life, I invited her to a party in Rolla when I was in the fraternity (and we were harassed unmercifully if we didn't have a date)... Glenda accepted my invitation... she was my date... it stands out in my memory. Donna works with the blind... helping on local, state, national levels. She later related that she had been in Phoenix where she took a group of 8 blind guys to Hooters. Since the guys couldn't see, they inquired if they would be allowed to "feel" the Hooters waitresses (Donna assures me that the guys were joking). She also has a grandson who reached the level of Eagle Scout at the age of 13. Jane Braeckel volunteers and donates her time for "about anyone who asks." Plus, she is a real cowgirl and Leroy is a real cowboy. Tuttle also had Jane be the person to draw the raffle tickets. Bob Reynolds made good use of his time in prison to learn a new computer language and create geography software (he wasn't humble... he declares that it is the best geography software on the planet). And he surprised us all (he thinks it was a surprise anyway) to explain that his life has taken him in a different direction than his other classmates. And some of the "quiet" classmates surprised us (surprised me, for sure). Dianna Gory started off in a whisper but had a good story. Bill followed with the story of their lives together (and I was surprised to learn that they both were high school sweethearts for several years... I was so naive that I never realized that anyone was dating anyone else). Kathaleen Prince declared that "I typed the story of my life... it is on the web page... you can all read it there" (Kathaleen, you cracked me up). For some reason I had thought that I took Kathaleen to the Junior Prom but she assured me that I was mistaken. James Atkinson has my complete admiration for devoting several years to being a doctor who treats HIV patients at a time when most of his colleagues were afraid to be in the same room with someone with HIV. My hat is off to you, Jim. You saved the lives of many of my friends. Alyce told us about her and Mick's 5 kids, her nursing career and helping Mick in his insurance business. She also handled the Sign-In table both nights. Dave and I were thinking that we should look for volunteers to rotate their time at that table but Alyce handled the task for both nights (Thank You, Alyce). Kirk Land told us about school at Rockhurst, his two daughter engineers, marriage in 73 and retiring to Grove, Oklahoma (I kept confusing his city with Locust Grove... I thought I could picture where he lived). Denny's story was transcribed to an iPad... Denny stood by his life-long friend as his story was told. The two of them demonstrated a great bond of love and friendship as they stood before us supporting each other. Thank you, Denny and Ron. That was a special time for me (and, I am guessing, for all of us). Linda Wolf explained that the reason she missed Friday night was so that she would not be required to tell the story of her life... and then Tuttle made her do it Saturday night (cracks me up... her excuse didn't work). Linda Hendricks told of her research of the Underground Railroad (and several other topics). She has a book coming out soon (she needs to email us with info when it gets published). Tom Williams reminded us of several major events of the Vietnam war... including the incident with the Pueblo which was a major military and diplomatic event of that era. Surprisingly (to me) he was also a Drill Sargent. Bob Shryock was one of the last to speak. He told us of his life since McAuley which involved a transfer to a different school for his last year (instead of McAuley). Ron Richard revealed the name of the girl on his first double (or triple) date (Donna) and his first kiss (Glenda). He also complimented us all by noting that even though we had a small class (compared to public schools), we had all accomplished so much and were successful at many things. Dave Tuttle was the last to describe his life. He retired from Air Force and AFLAC insurance. Then worked as Realtor and casino Marketing Trainer. Now work as mobile notary doing Refinance loans in NW Missouri. He and Carol have 2 kids (and a grandson who is already an Eagle Scout at 13). The above compilation is a micro-bio of what we all discussed.... there was much more detail than can be described here. Aside: We were a group or really nice kids. Even when the nuns scolded one of us for something that they thought was a horrendous thing (Napier for the water balloons... Harsh for the Tuxedo) we really were good kids. I remember when Ms. A'Hearn was shocked when one of us let a turtle loose in the classroom (and then we ignored it as it moved around the room). Cracks me up. The Trivia Game:It started off feeling a bit hokey to me. But then the folks at our table really began enjoying it and laughing about our lack of knowledge (Seriously... the Raven was the first bird that Noah released?). And then we tried to mess up the players at the other tables by "whispering loudly" the wrong answers so that the other tables might fall for our diabolical ruse and write down our wrong answers on their answer sheets. I thought we did great... but the winners were actually the group with the least players. The Yearbook Skit:If you are on this email list... but if you couldn't attend... you were not forgotten. ALL of you were mentioned during the yearbook skit (and many other times throughout the evenings). And... just after I thanked those who had helped (including Dunn and Roderique who could not attend), we received a text message from Mike Dunn wishing us well. And it is because of the absence of many of our classmates that we are (Skip is) going to set up a casual get-together later in the year where we can watch a home-game at the McAuley gym. We are hoping that many of the missing can return that evening (more on that below). A Cool CoincidenceWhile planning for the reunion, Patrick Tuttle made a few suggestions for motels with meeting rooms. We selected the La Quinta. As the early volunteers gathered to inspect the La Quinta layout, Dianna Gory was surprised to see that we had selected the very same room where she had worked as a banquet waitress 45 years ago. She had worked in the same room from opening day until she saved enough money to go to Korea (April 1972). When she returned from Korea (18 months later) she returned to work there with her mom, aunt, and sister. The motel was then a Ramada Inn. And she had a photo of her and her co-workers sitting in a table in the room where we met. Solicitors At The LibraryWe pulled up to the library in a huge 56-passenger bus with the huge words "Viking Trailways" written on the front and on both sides. The bus stopped directly in front of the library to let us off. There were two guys holding up signs at the entrance to the library. They were looking for signatures on some petition or something. So... as we were walking past them on our way into the library, one of them asked us "What brings you to the library?" Seriously! This huge bus is behind us at the end of the sidewalk and these guys asked "What brings you here?" I am positive these guys were not McAuley graduates. Five Neat Things1: La Quinta Motel Generation GapWhile we were preparing for our 50-Year Reunion at the age of 69 and 70, the La Quinta was also hosting several groups who were in town for some junior league baseball tournament. As I trudged back down the long hall to my room (and back) to get stuff for the reunion tables, I crossed paths with lots of boys (age 9 to 13) in their baseball uniforms who were wandering the halls and finding things to explore (as young boys are supposed to do)... it occurred to me that the motel was host to lots of young kids who were just now learning about life... visiting the big city of Joplin for a tournament... having a chance to show their skills and to meet new kids from all over southwest Missouri. And at the other end of the motel (in the Little Chicago room) there were 35 adults who were returning from all over the United States... getting together to share stories of where life had taken them. It was a stark contrast and heart-warming scene. One time, as I approached my room (with my arms full and my key card peeking out of my shirt pocket) a boy approached and asked "Can I help you get into your room?" He took my card... slid it into the slot... pushed the door open and put my card back in my shirt pocket. We are leaving the planet to millions of nice kids... and that makes me feel good. 2: The Blue Border Lights Dave Tuttle brought crepe paper for the ceiling but he was "not allowed on ladders." So Bill Gory was up on the ladder with the crepe paper while some of the girls helped him twist the streamers (Carol Tuttle was the scotch tape giver). There were about 8 people working to decorate and organize the room. Once we got it all looking good, the restaurant manager (Chris) came in to admire our work and then he did something with the light switches. Chris flipped some switches and the white recessed lighting turned from one color to another... finally ending up blue. That was the final touch that made the room look really cool. The room was ready for our big event! 3: The Basketball Dynasty Banners When we arrived at the gym, I explained that "we can tour the school for a while and then we will take a class photo on the bleachers and a second class photo under the metal basketball banners at the end of the gym." Those banners designated that our class was the beginning of a Dynasty. And I pointed to the banners. The banners had been there for years. Our banner had probably been there for 50 years.... 50 years on the same spot at the end of the gym... 50 years pronouncing to all who entered that hallowed gymnasium that the Class of '65 had done something big (huge). It was quite an honor that the banners had stood there in humble silence for 50 years and that now, this day, several members of the Class of '65 would have their photo taken under the banner. So. We toured the high school. The guy in charge of Gym Cleaning Day gave us the tour. After we toured the school we returned to the gym for our photos. I casually glanced around and was stunned to see that all of the banners had been removed from the wall at the end of the gym! After standing guard for 50 years, the banners had been removed just 15 minutes before we were planning to take the photo (the odds are 1 in 1,752,000 that those 15 minutes would happen when we needed it... feel free to correct me, but I used a calculator). I actually semi-shouted "OMG... where did the banners go?" One of the boys told me that "we took them down... we are going to throw them away." He could see my dismay and told me that "we are going to replace them with something better." Well... that was nice... but still posed a problem. I convinced 3 of the boys to hold up the banners behind us as we took the photo of us sitting on the bleachers. It was sort of funny. No... it was very funny to know that there were boys holding up the banners so that we could look important.And then, as we were about to head to the tour bus, I asked the head guy "So... if you are going to throw those away, can we have the top two? The one from our year and the year after?" He agreed to save them for me. I picked them up after the bus trip. Bill Gory has them now on the wall of his basement... saving them for our return visit... one for us and one for Coach Jim Wyatt. Aside: The McAuley Principal (Georgiana McGriff) phoned me the day after the reunion to apologize that we did not have the continental breakfast (coffee, juice, pastries) at the gymnasium. I assured her that we had so much going on that we didn't need the breakfast and I told her the above story about the banners. I also told her that we had the phone number of Coach Ed Wilson in case we needed a key to the building (Ed lives close and offered his help). I spent several minutes on the phone with Georgiana telling her of the success of the reunion. She wanted me to tell you all that we are welcome back any time (I mentioned Skip's possible one-day reunion idea). She thinks that would be a great idea. 4: Turning Off the Lights Dave and I were the last two in the Little Chicago Room Saturday night. Our classmates had cleaned the tables... removed everything from the "Show and Tell" table... took down the decorations and had said their good-byes. It was just me and David in the room doing our final clean-up tasks. Chris (the kitchen manager who had been so kind in helping me with last-minute decisions) came into the room and we talked for about 10 minutes. He was seriously impressed with our reunion... with our friendship... with the music... with the excitement that he saw us share... and with how we had left the room in perfect order each day. He had seen many reunions. He told me of a few disasters. He learned many things from watching us and he knows that his upcoming high school reunion will be much better because he will incorporate many of our ideas. It really felt good that a stranger was so impressed with how we all interacted. He repeated Barchak's phrase when he told me that we "didn't look like people who had not been in contact for 50 years... we looked more like a family reunion." 5: Altar Boys are often Girls. At Mass, there was a beautiful girl (about 12?) on the left side and a very young (short) boy on the right side. At one point the girl (who usually maintained a saintly pose) smiled about something that she noticed in the audience. And the boy (while pouring water on the priest's fingers after communion) spilt some water on the girl's uniform. The boy thought that was funny and could not stop giggling. Even the priest thought it was funny. And the boy reminded me of myself... I was the shortest guy in our school and I often had the honor of holding the cross during short processions. Possible Future GatheringSeveral classmates were truly unhappy that they could not join us. Roderique, Napier, Pamperin, Horace (with two Williams, I need to differentiate), Dunn, Gant, Patterson and others wanted to join us but had conflicts. Others, including Farris, Perrin, Wuellner, and Ritzman may wish to return under a different circumstances (perhaps a one-evening casual event). Pat Pamperin asked to be invited to the next reunion and she hoped it wasn't another 10 years in the future. Napier is out of the USA helping at an orphanage and he feels bad to have missed. Mike Dunn wanted us to do a Skype thing (something that we should have done). Skip Gant had a last minute conflict. Steve Patterson had a medical event in his family at the last minute. And others (Durkin, Blinzler, Hagedorn) could not show up for unknown reasons (I am assuming that they are in ICU). Skip asked me to send his regards to the class and to also inquire if classmates (those attending and those who could not make it to this reunion) might want to get together later in the Fall/Winter for an evening at the gym (and probably dinner) to share an evening of memories. Most of the current attendees raised their hands when I asked if they were interested, although many will not be able to make a second trip this year. But (in my opinion) even if there are just 5 returning, it will be worth another trip to Missouri for me. Skip and I will work on it. It will mostly be his work because this one has worn me out (although I may get revived after a month). We will keep you informed... and perhaps Coach Wyatt could return. Do We Continue to Stay in Contact?We have the Questionairre's with your contact information. I will post the contact information on the web page. And if you send me bios (for those who have not sent one) I will post them on the web page. And if you email me photos (email them to bob@clickandlearn.com or put them on a thumb drive and mail them to Bob Reynolds; 22609 N Twin Buttes Dr; Sun City West, AZ 85375) I will add the photos to the web page. But it is up to you. If you want to contact a few (or all) classmates, feel free to use the email addresses above or the info that I will add to the web page. If you don't want your contact on the web page (anyone might stumble onto it) let me know and I will remove it. A Personal Side-Note of ThanksI was so impressed with Linda's artwork that I wanted one of her paintings to hang on a wall in Arizona. Her donations were not only beautiful but symbolic of our connections with the churches, convent and schools. I actually remember the first Mass that I attended in First Grade. I was the first kid in our pew (my dad worked across the street at AT&T, so he always got me to Mass early). The next two students to arrive were Skip and Cornell Gant. So... for me, I really wanted the painting of St. Peters. Thank You, Linda for your donation... it means more than just a painting to me... it is symbolic of all 12 years that I attended school at St. Peter's and McAuley. On the same topic, I am also thankful to Patty Richard for dropping out of the bidding for that painting. I would have gone to $100 (seriously, I wanted that painting) but Patty later told me that "when I realized that I was bidding against you, I dropped out because I wanted you to have it." Her kindness was really appreciated and it was an example of the kindness and friendliness of all of the spouses who attended. My hat is off to all of the classmates... I enjoyed meeting and visiting with all of the wives and husbands. You have all done well. Plan a Vacation to ArizonaYou are ALL welcome to visit me in Sun City West, Arizona (outside of Phoenix). If you wish to stay, you can have the guest room for 2 nights. If you stay in a nearby motel, I will spend two days showing you how old people in Arizona keep active and entertained. You might not want to visit in the summer (it is 114 degrees every day and I am usually not there in the summer). Horace Williams, Tom Williams and Chuck Roderique live close (perhaps they can join us). Alyce usually visits her relatives in Sun City West for a few days each winter. If you want to do some Lawn Bowling, Pickleball, Miniature Golf (I won't join you at real golf... I am as bad at golf as I was at basketball), I will show you a good time. Sun City West is right on the way to Las Vegas, San Diego and all of Southern California. A Final Word of ThanksAs we return home, let us remember what just happened. In our young years we just flowed along wherever life took us. Our parents guided our lives and we only knew each other because our parents chose to send us to parochial school. When we stood on the bleachers at our graduation we were all proud of ourselves and of each other. Honestly, it didn't occur to me that I would not see many of you for 50 years. I didn't understand the concept that this was the end. Perhaps many of the military kids understood, but I didn't. It didn't occur to me that we might not get together for 10 years... or until the all-school reunion... or until our 50-year reunion. Aside: if you missed this reunion, you missed Glenda's story of how she invited Sr. Mary Kent to the 50-year reunion (in 2017) and after a long pause, Sr. Kent said "well... you graduated in '65... and this is 2017... and you are planning your 50-year reunion... I must have failed you all as a math teacher." I remember when I first re-met Dave several months ago. He said "I don't want us to meet each other at a school homecoming where we are in a crowd... I want to meet my classmates... to hug them for the first time... to get to know them again... in a setting were we can just talk to each other." And I felt that the reunion would be successful if 4 or 5 of you showed. When I met Rod Harsh for the first time after 50 years, I pulled into the parking lot where about 12 cars were parked. One license plate said "Joplin." I knew that it probably belonged to Rod. And then, as we sat in the little cafe visiting with him I couldn't stop smiling... realizing that this was really going to happen. And then the ball began to roll... and it kept rolling for the next six months. I sent several emails to nudge it to keep rolling and many of you began to send me contact information for the missing classmates (most were missing). Sadly, we found that several of our classmates had died. And there were many we could not find. But with the help of everyone who attended the reunion, we created a great event (almost a professional event) that brought many of us back together. My feelings at the top of this email still stand out. The fact that I could meet Dave... and Rod... then Glenda, Linda, Dianne and Bill... and within seconds (seriously... seconds) we were animated and excited and eager to get together for this... that is my biggest surprise. I thought it would be uncomfortable... that we would need to search for things in common again. But it was beautiful. Yes... I know that it is tough to read such a long email in one sitting. A friend phoned to ask what I have been doing this afternoon/evening and I told him "9 hours on one email!" I crack myself up occasionally, but it was true... 9 hours (and a phone call to David and Rod for accuracy) on one email. We have worked hard to find each other. Let's Keep in Touch. Bob (Robert) Reynolds |
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We have made arrangements with the La Quinta Inn on Range Line Road. They have rooms for $109/night (you can share with your classmates). If you reserve there, Ask for the McAuley Reunion Price. Address: 3320 South Range Line, Joplin, MO Reservation: 1-417 781-0500)
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Jim Atkinson (Hazel)
Contacted but Could Not Attend
Could Not Locate
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Contact InformationClick here to View Prior Info |
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Bob, Reminiscing for me is difficult because I question "why" and try to answer if I was the best person in that circumstance that I could be. So I throw myself into my daily lives. No, not a misprint, I do many different things in the course of a week and so I have many different lives. Many people would say I have a very boring life, but if our goal is to get to our final reward in heaven if matters not the path, but the way we choose to follow it. There she goes again, blah, blah, blah..... So I remember you laughing! Not really any specifics, either. I have a very poor memory when it comes to details. Anyway.... I am a great memorizer and can pass a test with a lot of time spent studying. I am mother of five, grandmother of 11 (ages 4 to 19), wife of one (no particular order here), retired high school science teacher who graduated from college at age 40 (chemistry, biology, physical science, etc) retired with my husband from his business doing taxes and bookkeeping. We live on a cattle farm (since '72) where we still have a large herd of commercial cows. Lots of awesome outdoor work to do. Our hobby is fishing and I would be on the lake every day if possible. So you see, I am very "grounded" and travel and adventure elude me. Unless you call catching and vaccinating a herd of cattle (at age almost 70) adventurous! ...building fence.....chopping out weeds...etc, etc. My other life is with my church, meaning the whole of the Catholic faith. I get involved wherever I can. I was meant to teach and didn't know it for a lot of years. I do so much volunteer work my calendar is overflowing. I wash dishes in a "soup" kitchen (built on our old playground at St. Peters), teach classes at the Catholic school, at our church, prepare kids for the sacraments, lead a study group and whatever you ask of me I will consider. If time is my gift then I will share it as long as I am able. Anyway, more here than is necessary... See you soon, Jane |
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It would be nice to have her obituary here.
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Mike is helping us put the reunion together by searching for (and finding some) contact information for our classmates. He sent a page of his memories from those years and also an interesting biography of his life. From my memory, I think we all expected that he would be working out of Washington, D.C. as an ambassador to some foreign country. He came close to that, but actually ended up being more active in Middle-East News than an ambassador could have done. Read his Biography and his Memories of Life at McAuley by clicking the links below.
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I got a nice call from Joe Fenske a couple of days ago. He has had an interesting life... is currently running a huge cattle ranch that has property on Oklahoma, Kansas and Missouri. He has a great attitude toward life and an appreciation of being alive. He was in a farm accident and lost his left arm many years ago (so you will get a one-armed hug from him when you first meet him). He is looking forward to seeing us all and telling us about his life. Thanks for calling, Joe. I look forward to visiting with you again after 50 years. |
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We have found that there was a Robert W. Casteel Fenske born November 13, 1946 who died February 15, 2013. He had worked at FAG Bearings. He has a son Christopher Carnes of Joplin and a daughter Kerry Quattlebaum also of Joplin. A brother Ron Fenske also lives in Joplin. Don’t know enough about Bob’s background to know if there were a lot of kids with the two differenty names, Casteel and Fenske. |
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Skipper is living near Nashville, Tennessee and has a career as a Defense Attorney. We shared many stories during a 40-minute phone call. Joplin was not an inclusive city in those years but Skipper mentioned that many things have changed for the better. Joplin had a black female mayor recently and she, while still Mayor, went to Nashville to visit with Skipper's mother (and Skipper's family). Skipper's mother is still living (in good health... still driving) and has been living with Skipper and his wife for about 12 years in Nashville. |
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See Bio under Dianna Lichty Gory (below). |
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Life with Gory Family Summer of ’65 my first job was waitress at Howard Johnson restaurant. That Fall I had a full-time position taking care of three toddlers. Bill began college at Pitts-State. The distance made the hearts grow fonder. We were engaged in September to be wed the next summer. Instead our wedding was November. Bill transferred to Joplin, known now as MSSU. By 1967 after trying college, I decided on Cosmetology. Still have my license to cut hair, although clerical was my real calling. Bill graduated with his BS in Sociology in winter 1970. He, as many of our generation, won the lottery. His number was low and was going to be drafted. Instead, he enlisted in the Army as a pharmacy tech. His Basic training took place at Fort Leonard Wood in Missouri. AIT began at Fort Sam Houston, San Antonio, Texas 1971. I joined him there, using my restaurant skills as a hostess this time. Summer of 1971 his first Assignment took us to Fort Walters - Mineral Wells, Texas (he was assigned to the mail room). This was a short assignment. Life became interesting at this point. Bill was going to use his training now as a Pharmacy Tech. at Hialeah Compound with the 11th Evacuation Hospital Pusan, Korea. After he was settled, I joined him. This was 1972, our first daughter, Tiffany, was adopted before we left in 1973. She is Korean by birth. A great American by choice, MSgt, USAF assigned presently with Policy HQ USAF Pentagon. Her husband Dave, is retired USAF our grandson Austin, 16, is an avid baseball player. We adopted Alyssa in 1978 as an infant. She now lives with husband Cranston, daughter Raven 19, and son Reggie 18 near Dallas, TX. Bill was Administrator of Jasper County Health Dept. retiring after 23 years. He enjoys carpentry work and has done a lot through the years on various barns, home remodeling etc. After our daughters were in school I went back into the work force. First four years as bookkeeper for St. Ann Church and School. Another three years as part-time secretary for Attorneys Johnston & Carlton. In 1992, I accepted a position with the State as an Office Support Assistant, Division of Family Services. Tried casework at one point and decided clerical was my forte. I retired from DFS as OSA Supervisor in 2011. Over the years, Bill and I have cared for elderly parents and relatives. We presently live in Joplin having built this home in 2003 finally leaving the farm and moving back to the city. We are members of St. Mary Parish and experienced the tornado of 2011. Our home was spared damage by only a few blocks. |
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My wife and I moved to Florida in '74 and returned in 2006. I founded the Route 66 Chamber of Commerce in '07 and live with my wife of 48 years at the Parkwood Apartments on Range Line Road in Joplin. . |
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Linda just sent a New Bio: So good to a reunion with so many of us still here and well pickled for the grand ole age we have been fortunate enough to make it too. After graduation, I attended Missouri Southern State College and graduated in 1970 with a double major in Elementary Education and Art Education. In 2002 I graduated from Pittsburg State University with a Masters in Elementary Education. I married in 1970 and was married for fifteen years and had two daughters, Shannon Mauvorne Oglesby and Erin Oglesby. Shannon has three children, Daniel, 17 who is attending McAuley, Bailey Nicole who is 14 and a freshman at Carl Junction High School, and Emma Grace, 11 who is going to be in the sixth grade at Carl Junction. Shannon's husband passed unexpectedly in 2011. Erin is married and she and her husband are teachers. Shannon is also a teacher at St. Mary's Elementary School and was a nominee for Golden Apple this last year. I taught art to the sixth, seventh, and eighth grade at St. Peters for a year in 1977. I then began teaching art in Joplin in 1985 to 700 elementary students in six schools for five years. Using my elementary education degree, I began teaching fifth grade at the old Irving Elementary School for eight years, nominated for Golden Apple four years in a row, then taught reading to the middle school at Triway Middle School. In 1996, I married Steven Duncan who is also a graduate of McAuley in 1960. We love to travel to the Southwest, the old missions and especially St. Genevieve, Missouri. He hauls me, bless his heart, and all of the props (antiques) and it is a carful, to do my historical living history presentations on the Underground Railroad, Anne Frank, and the Oregon Trail to the four states, for the last four years. At present I have a book on the Underground Railroad Railroad that will be out at the end of the summer, and one coming out in the spring on the Oregon Trail, and am presently doing research on the Underground Railroad in Southwest Missouri for a future book. Drawing and painting is my most loved hobby along with quilting, and the great love of both Steve's and my life are our three grandchildren. Am studying French as we are going to Quebec next year to see the places that my family came from. I gleaned this information from my genealogy research through Ancestry and have meant new first cousins. A great gift. And that is that, done. Linda. |
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Hi Bob, Our two daughters live in Tulsa, OK and Allen, TX, where they and their husbands are engineers. We also have two grandsons in Allen, a suburb of Dallas. After a career with three different natural gas pipelines, I retired from Northern Natural Gas in 2012, and we moved from Omaha, NE to Grove. It's been enjoyable so far. Hard to believe is the reality that almost half a century has passed since we last saw each other in the KC area. After a brief stay in the military, I returned there, working nights as a computer operator, while completing my degree at Rockhurst. After employment with Panhandle Eastern Pipline, I was transferred to Liberal, KS, and we made our home in the Oklahoma panhandle, just south of there. After our daughters were attending OSU in Stillwater, Anadarko Petroleum, my next employer transferred me to Amarillo, TX, but shut down division offices three years later, culminating in relocation to Omaha. Seeing the class of '65 together again will be a treat; hopefully most will be ble to attend. Kirk |
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We just got this bio from Denny. He has had an interesting career and life. Be sure to read to the end because he has quite a story. After graduating from high school, I started college at Missouri Southern State University, and I worked summers as a gandydancer [I had to look this up] on the FRISCO RR living in bunk cars in Kansas. After completion of my A.A., I transferred to Missouri State University. While at the MSU, I worked at a Pizza Parlor as a waiter. Then I was promoted to manager of two their stores in Springfield. In 1969, I received my B.A. in political science. Despite my opposition to the Vietnam War (yes, I was a protester) I enlisted in the U.S. Navy, and served four years, mostly in Germany, assigned to the U.S. Naval Security Group Command (Europe). After my discharge in 1973, I started graduate school at the University of Central Missouri (UCM) in the Department of Criminal Justice. I also served as a graduate assistant. I received my M.S. in 1975, and I was immediately offered a faculty position in the Criminal Justice Department. I taught there for two years, then started work on a PH.D. at the University of Southern Mississippi. After completing my coursework for the Ph.D. I resumed teaching and research at UCM. Shortly thereafter, I was offered the position of Department Chair of the Criminal Justice Department. I completed my dissertation, graduated with a Ph.D., and I continued as Department Chair for three years. In1981, I was granted a fellowship by the National Endowment for the Humanities to study and do research at Boston University. Realizing that I wanted to add to my skill set, I left UCM, took the LSAT, moved to Kansas City, and was accepted to law school at the University of Missouri at Kansas City. Three years later, I passed the bar, and was offered the position of Assistant Prosecuting Attorney for Cass County, Missouri. I held that position for one year and then decided to run for the position of Prosecuting Attorney. Surprisingly, I won. I loved the challenge, and I ran for a second four year term - unopposed. In my eight years as Prosecutor, I did not lose a jury trial (but I never had to face the great Skip Gant - - talk about lucky!). After the completion of my second term, I ran for Circuit Judge of the 17th Judicial Circuit. The year was 1994 and Republicans swept all local and state offices. Alas, I was and am a liberal Democrat (Sorry, Ron!). I opened a law office in Harrisonville, Missouri. I was frequently appointed special prosecutor in various counties in and around Kansas City. I also taught as an adjunct professor in criminal justice for the University of Missouri at Kansas City, and I participated in prosecution clinics at UMKC law school. In 1995, my friends at the UCM asked me to rejoin the faculty in the Criminal Justice Department teaching graduate courses. I cut back on my law practice, and I returned to UCM. In 2004, I was asked to serve as Chair of the Department of Safety Science and Technology. I agreed and I remained in that position until my retirement, as Professor Emeritus of Criminal Justice. While at UCM, I was asked by the Presiding Circuit Judge to serve as a Municipal Division Judge in the city of Knob Noster, MO (a small town of about 2,500 people and home of Whiteman AFB and the B-2 bomber). I agreed, and I served in that part time position for twelve years. All of my work on the municipal bench was pro bono. In 2007, I was elected President of the Missouri Municipal and Associate Circuit Judges Association. Fourteen years ago, I was also serving as President of Survival Adult Abuse, our county adult abuse shelter. As was customary, I was introduced to all new employees, in this case, the new volunteer coordinator. Her name was Judy. There was just something about her smile and those incredible shoes. Let's face it, she was hot! I finally focused on something other than work, and I liked it! In 2007, Judy and I retired and moved to Florida. We enjoyed our early retirement in the Villages, Florida. Life was great, and we were splitting our time between Florida in winter and Missouri in summer. Unfortunately, our lives changed in February, 2011. I was diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. To make a long story short, I required a bilateral lung transplant, and I suffered three strokes while on the operating table. My present condition is ok. Last year, my doctors at the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville were forced to implant a trach in my throat, and a feeding tube in my belly. I suffer severe paralysis on my left side, and trach prohibits me from speaking properly. Judy will be my voice, and I have no control over what she will say! My passions in life have been many. At various times I was an avid tennis player (remember Father Nolan?), scuba diver, golfer, and long distance runner. I ran a marathon, several half marathons, made a hole in one, and I loved dancing with Judy. I don't want to offend anyone, but I spend a considerable amount of time supporting liberal causes. Judy and I are excited to see everyone at the reunion! Despite my condition, I am the same ole Denny with the same crazy sense of humor. |
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A Note from Bob Reynolds: Jane phoned. She was very pleased that we are setting up the reunion... and she would like to attend... but it is a long way from Boulder, Colorado and she would like to ride with someone if anyone will be going through Boulder on the way to the reunion. Personally, I was impressed with her young-sounding voice and her positive attitude/outlook. I hope she will return. |
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We just got this note from Jim Napier. He can't make it to the reunion (out of the country workng at an orphanage) but as you can read below, he has had an interesting life Classmates: The following is an effort to bring everyone up to date on what has happened to me since graduating from McAuley: We graduated in May or June 1965 and that summer as in the previous couple I worked as a lifeguard and Little League Umpire. I also went to Red Cross National Aquatic School, Lake Murray, Ardmore, OK to earn instructor certification in Swimming/Water Safety, Small Crafts, and First Aid. In the fall of 1966 I enrolled in Joplin Jr. College (JJC) for my freshman year (across from St Pete’s church). I passed everything but did not do great. In the summer of 1967 my father got transferred to the Marine Corps Supply and Maintenance Depot, Barstow, CA. I went along under protest, but it turned out pretty well. I enrolled at Barstow Community College (BCC) I changed my major from Engineering to Biology and went from a 2.5 student to a 3.2 student, played soccer (BCC did not have a football team), I also played a little baseball, but did not make the first team. When I was at JJC I had enrolled in the Marine Corps Platoon Leader Class (PLC) program. An officer selection program for schools without NROTC. So, for half the summer of 1968 I taught swimming/life guarded and the second half I went to Marine Corps PLC Officers Candidate School for the first of two six-week training programs to see if I had what it takes to become a Marine Officer after graduation from college (If I graduated). I escaped getting booted from PLCs by the skin of my teeth. We started with 52 candidates in my platoon and graduated 32 from session one. When I left PLC training at Quantico, VA, I returned to Joplin, MO for my Junior year. By that time JJC was now at its new campus and was Missouri Southern State College. I got a job at Carlson’s Hardware Store (17th and Main) and an apartment a block south of the YMCA on the second floor above a car dealership. In the summer of 1969 I went back to Quantico for my 2nd 6-week PLC/OCS course. Again we started with about 50 in my platoon and graduated 30. This graduation guaranteed a commission provide I graduated. In January 1970 I graduated, worked for a month waiting for my orders and when they came, I went to Pensacola, FL for flight training. I lasted until July at flight school and found out the harsh reality that I was not meant to be a Marine combat pilot and was transferred to Quantico, VA to attend “The Basic School” (TBS), a six month course designed to teach young Lieutenants how to be Marine Officers and to expose them to every specialty so that at the end you can select one for either your obligated service or your career. I selected logistics because of my work at the hardware store. It was a good fit. After TBS I was sent to a 3 month course at Camp Lejeune, NC to teach me how to be a supply clerk (not a supply officer, that was on the job training). After school, I received orders to my first of 4 tours in Okinawa, Japan (now it is May 1971). I was not sent to Viet Nam because the USMC was not sending supply officers there in 1971. And, to my surprise I was assigned to the same Battalion as my father, who was also in logistics and now a Master Sergeant. I had not seen my family in four years and was allowed to live in their quarters until they left in August of that year. My father was required to return to Okinawa for an “unaccompanied” 12-month tour in September 1971 after getting my mom, brothers and sister settled in Southern California. The USMC had intentions of assigning my father to Camp Pendleton (Oceanside, CA) when he completed his Okinawa tour. While he was gone I got an apartment for us to live in when he returned half way between my office and his. On February 2, 1972 while on temporary duty in Iwakuni, Japan, my father had a massive heart attack and died instantly. Since I was more than 9 months through my tour they allowed be to accompany my father’s body home and transferred me to Camp Pendleton. A few months later I met Debby Bennett, who 18 months later (7/7/73) became my wife now of 44 years. In January of 1975 we had our first of two boys, James W. Later that year I was promoted to Captain (no connection to those 2 events), and received orders to Okinawa with my family (accompanied) for a 3-year tour. We enjoyed Okinawa and would later return for a 4-year tour together. In 1979, I received orders to Albany, GA to the Marine Corps Supply Center which was also the home of the Marine Corps Logistics Systems Development Center. Because of my logistics systems work in Okinawa, I was assigned to the “Marine Corps Standard Supply System (M3S) development office and ultimately picked up a secondary specialty of data process (that will be important later). Later that year (December 1979) our son Bradley was born. Debby really wanted a little girl but would have to wait 31 years to get one (stay tuned for that story). In 1981, I was promoted to Major and in 1982 selected for the Armed Forces Staff College, a 6-month Joint (all services attending) school after which we were transferred to Camp Pendleton for my second of 3 tours there. Even though I was a Major, I was assigned a Lieutenant Colonel’s job to be in charge of West Coast Intermediate Level Supply activity. I am sure it was because I had been a part of the systems development team at Albany and that job really needed a systems oriented leader. In 1985, I was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel and reassigned to be the ground supply officer for the First Marine Expeditionary Force (IMEF). I was only in that job for a year, but spent most of it either on training exercises at Fort Brag, NC; El Hammam, Egypt; Naples, Italy or getting ready to go to those exercises. I then got orders back to Okinawa for our final tour there and was assigned as the officer in charge of a Headquarters Marine Corps field office responsible for auditing all Marine Corps Supply and Maintenance procedures for units from Hawaii to Diego Garcia (3,000 miles from nowhere). Because Okinawa is centrally located we were able to vacation in Taiwan, Hong Kong, Seoul, and Tokyo. Because Okinawa is an atoll, we were able to take advantage of the 85-degree water with 100-foot visibility to scuba dive and take underwater pictures. My son, Jimmy, was my dive partner at least half that time and I was able to pick up PADI Dive Master and Master Diver qualifications. Upon completion of our last tour in Okinawa (June 1989), we were sent to Richmond, VA to a joint tour in “pay-back” for the joint school. While there I was assigned as Deputy Director of Technical Operations (2 years) and Deputy Director of the Data Center (1 Year). I was aslo selected for and promoted to Colonel (by the grace of God and a clerical error). After our tour at Richmond, we were supposed to be headed for Barstow, CA to the Repair and Maintenance Depot, but due to an admin error, I was assigned to Camp Pendleton as the Assistant Chief of Staff for Logistics for the Marine Corps Base. And, remained there until my retirement in August of 1995. When we returned to Camp Pendleton and Oceanside, CA we moved back into the house we bought and kept when we lived here in 1982-1986. We live in that house still, although we did do a significant remodel in 2000….but I’m getting ahead of myself. After retirement I bounced around for 5 years in various data systems project management jobs until I finally got hired by the Boeing Company in Long Beach ( I commuted 75 miles each way every day for 9 years). In 2000, we not only completed adding 1300 square feet to our 1500 square foot house, but was presented of a granddaughter, Jenna Rose by our oldest son, Jimmy. Jenna has been living with us for the past 9 years or so due to circumstances too complicated to explain in this already too long story. In November, 2011 our mom, who was also living in Oceanside succumbed to a lung disease caused by 40 years of smoking. In January, 2012 our youngest son, who lived in the house across the street from us was diagnosed with a very aggressive form of Leukemia and passed away 4 days later. As you can imagine we were and still are devastated by losing him at only 32 years of age. No parent is supposed to bury their child no matter how old they are. In April, 2015, I was offered a Voluntary Layoff from the Boeing Company accompanied by a significant layoff bonus. I, of course, took it and was then able to retire from the Boeing Company since I was 68 at the time and receive a small pension from them. Since I retired, I have been volunteering at Brother Benno’s Thrift shop as a general “handy man” fixing as many of the broken items donated as I can, am involved in The Marine House Association, a brotherhood of active and retired American and Korean Marines, and The Emiliani Foundation Project. Along the way Jenna has been scuba certified and is my dive partner. We still dive several times a year and will dive Costa Rica on the way to Columbia this summer. I sent Bob a link to the Emiliani Project so that you can all see what it is (emilianiproject.org). My granddaughter, Jenna and I will be working on that project this month while you are at the reunion. Well, I know that the story is long, and I left out a lot but I guess those are the highlights. As in all lives it has been filled with joys, sorrows, successes and failures, but remains a great life, so far. Please forgive any spelling or grammar errors. Hope you guys and gals have a great time at the reunion and wish I could be there. God Bless to all Jim Previous Bio I was born in Chattanooga, TN and wound up in Joplin as a result of my dad, who was a U.S. Marine Corps recruiter at the time, got stationed there. After graduating from McAuley, I went to the local Jr. College for a year before my dad was transferred to Barstow, CA. I spent my Sophomore year at a Jr. College there and signed up for the Marine Corps’ Platoon Leader Class program. I left Barstow to go to Marine Corps summer training and then back to Joplin to finish college at Missouri Southern. I worked my way through MSSC (now MSSU) at Carlson’s Hardware (17th and Main). When I graduated from MSSC, I was commissioned a Marine Corps 2nd Lieutenant. I stayed in the Marines for 26 years retiring as a Colonel (August 1995). After moving through several jobs after retiring from the Marines, I settled for nearly 15 years with the Boeing Company. I retired a second time from Boeing in April 2015. Now I spend my time volunteering with a couple of local organizations and swimming 4 days a week. Born in November 1946, I turned 70 last November, but stay pretty active. I still Scuba Dive and take underwater pictures. My 16-year-old granddaughter is my dive partner. I think the reunion that you write about sounds great and I would really like to come, but my granddaughter and I will be on our way to Medellin, Columbia to work in an orphanage that our parish has adopted. This will be our second year working there during the summer. |
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It would be nice to have his obituary here.
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From Bob Reynolds: Pat phoned... we had a great conversation. I was amazed at how much she remembered about many of our classmates. She and her husband are interested in old cars (OLD cars). I told her that we will have a prize for the person who returns in the oldest car (and that I plan to win that prize with my old 1968 Ford)... but she tells me that they may arrive in a 1940 something car. So... if all of you other classmates attend, you will be able to see a very old car that was driven from Nebraska to Joplin for the reunion. Personally, I plan to ask Jim (Pat's husband) to circle the block with me as a passenger. |
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A Note from Bob Reynolds: Sorry for the poor quality of the "Today" photo. I took this as a selfie... I should have done a regular frontal photo. But Jimmy (Jim) and I had a great visit together. Jimmy was damaged by Agent Orange in Vietnam and lacks the energy to attend the reunion. He looked good... full of energy and he had some interesting stories about his life. He is married to Vida Gilbert (a few years younger than us). They are celebrating many years together (something like 46 or more... I forgot. But it was great to see him. Jimmy: If you think it would help you get to the reunion, I could pick you both up... and do whatever I could to help you visit. You are a great guy and our other classmates would love to see you both. |
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Kathaleen Prince Rios Sent the following. Hello fellow classmates, Just wanted to give you the short version of my life by telling you about my family in California. I have seven children, which includes three older stepchildren. Barbara, the oldest, is an IRS agent, so, naturally, I try to stay honest with my taxes. Ana is a hospice nurse who has seen her share of tragedy. Refugio, who everyone calls Cookie, has had many careers, from business management to construction, and currently, he runs his own restaurant, El Patio, with the best Mexican food around that area. Mario is next, and is part owner in a jujitsu gym called SMASH Gym. He is also an owner in the technology firm with my other two sons, Alex, and Pablo, who prefers to be called Paul. That company is called Riverfy, and the boys serve area firms with keeping their technology up and running. My daughter, Sonia is a middle school principal, and has a love for that particular age. She does a spectacular job with teachers and students alike. All of my children have been the greatest joy in my life, and now my grandchildren have stepped in to claim their own space in my heart. I have had 14 grandchildren so far. They, like their parents, are all very competitive, and their loves range from basketball, to soccer, track, and swimming. Obviously, they do not take after me in the sports arena. The biggest sorrow our family has ever faced was the death of one of my granddaughters at the age of 15 months. I won’t dwell on it, but I will say that it takes many years to heal from the death of a child. At the same time, I realize that many of us have had our own struggles in life, and even though we may not speak of these, I hope we always treat others with great kindness and compassion. My teaching career was my other great joy. I got my first teaching job from the placement office at Missouri Southern, and I got it after a phone interview. My sixteen- year old brother, Robert helped me to drive a car to California. We had no idea of the distance, or how much money we would need, so it truly was an adventure. I was shocked to see how dry and hot the land was in the San Joaquin Valley. Guess I thought the ocean would be closer than a 3 hour drive. I have always been a primary grade teacher. One particular summer, after my second year of teaching, two of my fellow teachers came to see me to let me know that the following August, I would be the new bilingual teacher. I knew they weren’t talking about the only language I ever learned, which was Latin. I took a six- week crash course in Spanish that summer, and throughout the next eight years. My classroom had all the children newly arrived from Mexico, along with other students from the local area. I loved all my students, and tried to make the school experience a better one than I had had in my elementary years. These students brought so many stories to the classroom. Even with all their challenges and life circumstances, one could see their courage and persistence in the face of it all. I actually dreaded saying goodbye to my classes at the end of the year, and it was difficult to retire at first and lose that sense of purpose. Overall, I would have to say that it was what I saw in my own home, and in my Catholic upbringing that gave me the sense of justice and compassion. It served me well in teaching the diverse cultures that came to my classroom, and I will forever, be the advocate for all who struggle and need to find their place in this world. Thank you for your patience in reading over this biography. I’m happy to tell you that there will be no quiz over the information. These days, I have more questions than answers and am comfortable with living with some amount of uncertainty. I wish for all of you many blessed years to come in your lives, and God Speed. |
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It would be nice to have his obituary here.
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Thomas Joseph (Jr.) Rawlings, 64, of Eagle Rock, MO, December 24, 1947 - January 1, 2012.TOM RAWLINGS, a resident of Eagle Rock, MO, was born December 24, 1947 in Dallas, Texas, a son of Thomas Joseph Sr. and Eleanor Francis (Cox) Rawlings. He departed this life Sunday, January 1, 2012 in Springfield, Missouri, at the age of 64 years. Tom was of the Lutheran faith. He was a member of the Rotary and worked for 40 years as a chief financial officer for engineering companies. Since moving to Eagle Rock, he was an adjunct faculty member in accounting and economics at North West Arkansas Community College. Tom was raised in Joplin, MO, graduated college at Arkansas Tech, and received his MBA from the University of Kansas. On September 7, 1968, Tom was united in marriage with Sylvia Jean (Loris) Rawlings who survives. He is also survived by two children, Kelly Rawlings of Des Moines, Iowa and Brian Thomas Rawlings of Overland Park, Kansas; one sister, Jan Lanier of Westerville, Ohio; four grandsons, Grant, Brett, Zach and Josh; nieces, nephews and cousins. Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas Joseph Sr. and Eleanor Francis Rawlings. Memorial services will be 2:00 P.M. Friday, January 6, 2012 at the Community Lutheran Church in Eagle Rock, MO with Pastor Carl Petering officiating. Memorial donations may be made to Joplin Missouri Disaster Relief Fund, c/o Greater Kansas City Community Foundation, 1055 Broadway, Suite 130, Kansas City, MO 64105, E.C.H.O. Clinic, 4004 East Van Buren, Eureka Springs, AR 72632 or Arkansas Tech Endowment Fund, 1509 North Boulder Avenue, Room 209, Russellville, AR 72801. Online condolences may be sent to the family at nelsonfuneral.com.
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I spent the first 18 years of my life in Joplin, attending St. Peters Elementary and then McAuley High. Went to Rolla Missouri for College (along with David Slaughter and Phillip Warden). It took me 7 year to get through college (slow learner) and then I worked for coal and petroleum companies for 20 years (Illinois, Indiana, Pennsylvania, Texas, Oklahoma). In 1996 I started a small online educational software company (Click and Learn Software). No employees... just me... creating the best geography software on the planet. Unfortunately, there is no market for the product that I created, so after 20 years of pretending that I had a product (or a company), my software went into limbo. One of the coolest things that I have done in my life was 2 years ago at the age of 68 when I bicycled across the United States with a friend. The trip was 2,600 miles from the Atlantic (Jekyll Island Georgia) to the Pacific (Dog Beach in San Diego). The trip took 54 days and was an amazing journey. Now I am planning a High School Reunion for Joplin (July 13-16) and a Fraternity Reunion in Rolla (July 20-23). We are all 70... and time is running out... so I am hoping to get together with my high school classmates and my fraternity brothers this summer. |
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We got a note from Ron Richard. Bob, This is Ron Richard. I plan to join you and the others at the event. It was great to hear from you. I have been in the bowling business with my family for many years. I graduated from Missouri Southern University in 1969 with a bachelors of arts and a Masters from Missouri State University in 1972. Since high school I have an interest in politics. I was elected to the Joplin City Council and Mayor. Since then I was elected to the Missouri House of Representatives, Speaker of the House, Missouri Senate, and now serve as the President Pro Tem of the Senate. Been pretty lucky. Talk to you soon. All my best to you and our classmates Ron Richard |
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Charles A. (Chuck) Roderique, Jr. Born and mostly raised in Joplin, MO. After McAuley, I graduated from Pittsburg State with a degree in Accounting. Played 2 years college basketball at Rockhurst College in Kansas City before transferring to Pittsburg. I worked for Thomas J Cusack CPA in Joplin and Passed the CPA exam. Drafted into the Army and served 2 years in Washington DC. Later I worked for American Hot Rod Association in KC, Paccar in KC and TWA for 18 years in KC, Cairo Egypt, Paris France, London England and NYC. Worked for NPC / ACS in Juarez Mexico and El Paso, TX, then WebMD in Columbia MD. Set up offices in Bangalore India, Suva Fiji, Costa Rica, El Paso, TX and Columbia MD. “Got Retired” in 2007 and moved to a suburb of Phoenix where I did consulting work and the US Census for a number of years. We sold our house in early 2015 and traveled for 2 years in a 40’ Dutch Star motorhome, visiting Alaska and many of the National & State Parks west of the Mississippi as well as MI. We recently bought a newer house in our old neighborhood, Sun City Festival, where we are now. Check out www.whereRVgoingnow.com Married Sandy Richard (Ron Richard’s younger sister, McAuley Class of 66) in 1968 and we have a son, daughter-in-law, a grandson (13), a granddaughter (9) and grand dog (1) living in Ann Arbor, MI. We visit Ann Arbor and Joplin several times a year and hope to attend a National Corvair Convention in KC this summer and the McAuley reunion, if health issues don’t get in the way. Passions are Photography, Cars, car shows & museums, Travel all over the world, (but mostly domestic now,) and Wine. We have a fully restored, but always needing work, 1966 Corvair Monza Convertible. I’m still a “hacker” in golf even though we have lived on a golf course for 8 years! Check out my photos at https://www.flickr.com/photos/chuck_roderique/albums Chuck Roderique
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ObituaryKathryn Ann (Kathy) Ryan, 62, Joplin, Mo., passed away Monday, Jan. 25, 2010, at St. John's Regional Medical Center following an extended illness. Kathy was born March 17, 1947, at St. John's, to Betty Jeanne Sullivan Ryan and Earl John Ryan, as the eldest of five Ryan children. She is survived by her daughter, Kristen Nicole Ryan; her mother, Betty Ryan McClintick; a brother, Pat Ryan; and two sisters, Joan Hatch and Janice Jolles; nieces, Melissa Wood and Katie Andrews; nephews, Jarrod Koehler and Matt Ryan; plus grand-nieces and grand-nephew; and other family and friends. She was preceded in death by her father; and her brother, Mike Ryan.Kathy was a graduate of McAuley High School in Joplin. She graduated with her LPN license from Labette County Community College in Parsons, Kan., and finished her studies by attaining her RN degree and pursuing a lifetime career in healthcare. She lived in Texas, Colorado, and California, before returning to Joplin, where she spent the past four years. She was employed at Freeman Hospital in Joplin, before her illness. Kathy enjoyed needlework, reading, playing bingo and spending time with family. She actively attended Eastview Baptist Church in Joplin. |
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Dave has been helping with the reunion plans from the start. In particular, he is working on an Agenda of Activities (which includes a Trivia Game with Prizes for those of us with the best memory). His brother Patrick will is also helping with planning and he (Patrick) will be giving us a bus tour to describe the many Recovery Projects that has helped Joplin return from the tornato damage several years ago. Here is his bio: After McAuley, I moved to Kansas City and went to work for Hallmark Cards. Always enjoyed writing especially poetry and where better to get my foot in the door. Well, Uncle Sam had different ideas and in April of 1966, I was in San Antonio, Texas, going through Air Force Basic Training. Fast forward twenty years and tours of duty in Hawaii and Okinawa (fourteen years in recruiting duty; Greenville, Texas, Omaha and Kansas City) and now I am a retired Master Sergeant going to work for AFLAC Insurance back in Kansas City. Remarkable note: I joined the Air Force and took my oath at the processing center near Union Station and signed my retirement papers in the same building. I retired again from the ‘duck’ as a Regional manager in 2000. I spent the next five years as a marketing trainer for a local KC casino and seven more after that as a realtor. Now I work part-time as a Certified Signing Specialist (mobile notary). I am my own boss and go from home to home in Northwest Missouri doing re-fi loans. Looking back, I realized I have been talking non-stop throughout my whole work career. Selling Air Force, selling insurance, training guest service folks, selling houses, and now I explain refinancing forms to people. At 70 you’d think I’d be talked out? But like that ‘lil pink bunny’ I just keep going and going. I think my head stone will read: “Here lies Dave Tuttle, he finally shut up”. Hitting the highlight reel: I am a published author and lyricist. I had two great exwives, because two great kids; Denise 46 and Corey 29 came from those marriages. My only grandson Nathan, age 13 is already an Eagle Scout. I own foreign currency from every country in the world and a rare 45RPM record collection to include every Beatles label and Sun Record artist. But the last twenty-three years with my wife Carol Ann, makes the other forty-seven worthwhile. Best compliment you could ever give me…”He made me laugh! |
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ObituaryMr. Philip Warden, 56, of Jonesboro, passed away November 9, 2003 in a local hospital. He was born March 27, 1947 in Joplin, Missouri and was a resident there before coming to Jonesboro, GA. Mr. Warden was employed by the Bell South Corporation in Atlanta as a Sr. Engineer.Mr. Warden was preceded in death by his wife, Cathy Parker Warden. Survivors include his mother, Mrs. Cathleen Hennessy Warden; daughter and son-in-law, Julie Bailey and Philip Bailey; 2 sons, Jason Warden and Adam Warden all of Jonesboro; sisters, Donna Matsuda, Colorado, Mary McKittrick, Florida; Brothers, Steve Warden, Colorado, Gary Warden, Missouri, Dennis Warden, North Carolina and David Warden, Missouri; several nieces and nephews also survive. Funeral services for Mr. Warden will be conducted 11 a.m. Wednesday, November 12, 2003 at the St. Phillips Catholic Church with Father Vincent Gluc officiating, with interment to follow in the Forest Hills Cemetery
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Bob, thanks for your email and heartfelt message. Am declining to attend. We've had a family reunion planned for some time that conflicts with the Joplin reunion. I will try to work on a bio to post and maybe some anecdotes to share. I do recall an incident that Gilbert Yocum told us that happened during a benediction at St. Peter's. As all Catholics may remember, there is a point in which our pastor, Father Ingoldsby, used the Copa (sp?) to hold up the monstrance. After that Ingoldsby tossed the Copa off to the alterboy and it landed on his head covering him...and he staggered around the altar blinding, saying, "who turned out the lights?" I like the story, but have no idea how true it is. Later Horace |
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It would be nice to have an obituary here. |
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Michael Dunn
Bill Gory
Dianna Lichty Gory
Rod Harsh
Linda Hendricks Duncan
Alyce Moss Flaherty
Jim Napier
Jimmy Perrin
Bob Reynolds
Ron Richard
Kathy Ryan
David Tuttle
Tom Williams
Patty Woodruff
