Class Notes | 1950s

My thanks to Tom Nall for submitting his thoughtful comments that prevented an absence of communication from classmates for this edition of Class Notes. Tom kindly wrote: “I don’t have any news (I guess that’s a good thing). Just wanted to say ‘hi’ and see how you’re doing.” RIGHT ON, MY FRIEND!

On the home front, Marianne and I have moved to Bethesda, Maryland, from Florida as we believed it was advisable to be closer to my family. Good thing is we now reside in a condominium building that is only a 10-minute walk from my son Peter’s home! At this age, knowing “HELP,” if needed, is nearby makes good sense. As for cycling, my knees still ache despite orthopedic treatments, and I’ve limited my current activity to a stationary bike and leg weights, which are available in our building’s fitness center directly across the hall from our apartment. I will always have wonderful memories of the miles and friendships experienced for many years on my bicycle in Florida. Facing reality can be difficult at times!

I was delighted to receive a text from Paul Tractenberg ’60, a fellow former cyclist, who offered suggestions on several methods for trying to relieve the knee pain I have had. He asked me to “keep the regimen up and keep inspiring the YOUNGER Wes alums!” His kind words certainly reaffirm my strong feelings of the real benefits of cycling—that of meeting such grand people.

Unfortunately, I received the news that Tony Arena passed on August 17, 2022. My condolences to his wife, children, grandchildren, and classmates. His obituary can be read here: https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/middletownpress/name/anthony-arena-obituary?id=36442524.

As always, my warmest good wishes to you and your loved ones. May your days be filled with good health and happiness.

Please write to your class secretary.

Rev. Edward Allen White passed away March 31, 2022, at the home of his son in Darlington, South Carolina. He grew up in Wellesley, Massachusetts, attended Union Theological Seminary and McCormick. He spent much of his career helping congregations find fulfillment in their missions, stressing outreach.

Monroe (Monty) Neuman died July 13, 2022, in Chevy Chase, Maryland, leaving his wife of 60 years, Bobbie, three sons, and six grandchildren. Two sons attended Wesleyan—Doug ’87 and Charles ’91.

W. “Cope” Clapham Murray of Tamworth, New Hampshire, passed away May 1, 2022. He was born in Baltimore, Maryland, a member of Alpha Delta Phi, and a theater arts major, the third person to pursue what was, at that time, a new major at Wesleyan. A longtime artistic director of Barnstormers Theater, he was professor of Theater Arts at New England College and established a theater program there. He is predeceased by his wife of 59 years, Patricia, and is survived by a daughter and a son and two grandchildren.

Please excuse the shortened items. My life has turned a corner since Ash Wednesday when I went to the ER. Pneumonia kept me in the hospital for a month and rehab for a bit more, then I moved to an independent living facility. My house has been renovated these past months and now I need to decide whether to return or not.

I attended our 70th Reunion on May 21 and sad to say, I was the only one from our class present at dinner, as Seth Rosner, who I was supposed to meet, left early because he wasn’t feeling well. It was saddened further by the handing out of pamphlets with the names of all our deceased classmates. However, I spent a pleasant evening with the 65th Reunion Class, the 40th Reunion Class with my daughter Ellen F. Bender ’82, and my granddaughter Eliza Bender ’24 and her friends.

Unfortunately, I must report that Hal Buckingham, my predecessor as class scribe, passed away on June 5th, survived by his three children, Margaret, Harold III, and Janet, and his six grandchildren, having been predeceased by his wife Joyce last year. After graduation from Wesleyan, he served in the Korean War in the 24th Infantry Division, 54th Regiment, and was present for the truce on July 27, 1953, and participated in the subsequent exchange of prisoners of war at Panmunjom. He married Joyce one day after returning home on September 16, 1954, having known her since he was 7 and she 5. He graduated Virginia Law School in 1957. Hal was eager to make it back to campus for our 70th before his health took a turn for the worse. For further details about his life, see The Hartford Courant, June 10–12, 2022, or read his obituary here.

Zdenek David wrote that even though he retired in 2003 from his position as librarian of the Woodrow Wilson Center for Scholars in Washington, D.C., he continues to hold the position of senior scholar at the center and continues conducting research and writing in the history of East Central Europe. He attached a list of his recent publications and other activities, which is quite impressive.

PLEASE SEND NOTES!

Hope to see you at our 75th!

Slim pickings this issue for two possible reasons: First, the spring issue just arrived, and the news was old at best; and second, my address has been listed incorrectly. Someone out there may have received mysterious messages from unknown “friends.” Please note the correct address in this issue and PLEASE send some news.

I did receive a follow-up to the last issue from Charlie Selig. No real new news, but he does stay in touch. Thank you, Charlie.

A note from Chris DeGraff says, “Sandy and I are still enjoying our home in West Hartford. No more skiing, but we have been able to spend time in our Stratton ski house with family.”

Jean and I have survived the hot, dry summer in Connecticut and look forward to our 70th wedding anniversary in early winter.

Cheers to all.  Write when you can.

I heard from one classmate this time. Cliff E. Milner writes:

“Hi Bud,

“Sorry I never met you while we were at Wes. I just reviewed again my latest issue of the alumni magazine and see no one sent in news for the class of 1950. In years past, I have written up short bits and had the pleasure of seeing them in print, so will try again! I feel very fortunate to show some evidence of not losing my marbles. At 94 years, I ventured out to an auto dealer and bought myself a new Subaru, which turns out to be quite a challenge as it has a vast number of special features, most of which I haven’t figured out yet! I do love the ‘passing car warning’ however. I have a pronounced case of neuropathy of the feet, and I warn friends not to be in front of me when I am driving!!

“In February, I acquired a girlfriend . . . a young 91 and we have had a great time taking boat and train excursions and attending the frequent band concerts in this area. This weekend we are going to a blue grass festival down on the Finger Lakes.

“My family is scattered but still fortunate to have some here Rochester. My youngest son (in his 60s!) lives with me and helps with household chores and purchasing food. I have been visiting my Florida families every year in June (my favorite weather time). At the moment, we are stabilized with 12 great-grandchildren. — Cliff

“P.S. Very much saddened by the loss of Len Hippler, a great friend.”

“There is an eloquence in true enthusiasm.”—Washington Irving

The very day that we sent out the note to classmates about updating all the news, especially our continued athletic prowess, Al Brooks won his gold medal in the shot put at the Connecticut Nutmeg and Masters’ Games, defeating several younger competitors. Skip said that he and Molly were still tearing down the slopes, slowly. Herb Steiner is fast becoming “king of the pickleball courts” in both Mahwah and Florida, and staying in touch with Messrs. Vander Veer, Ogren, Martin, and Waterhouse, all of whom are well. And finally, Joe Mallory says his favorite sport is now eating!! Well deserved after being a member of the fabulous ’59 basketball team.

Charlie Wrubel writes that he is still swimming, though not competitively. He’s very excited about Wes’s swimming facilities and coach Pete Solomon. Son Bill’s (’85) daughter is now at Wesleyan, along with Herb Steiner’s granddaughter. Son Rob’s (’88) daughter is a junior at Fountain Valley School and has been named to the first team, all-state girls soccer team. Charlie and Myra spent a week cruising in Bermuda with Mark Edmiston ’64 and wife Lisa.

News from the Dave Eklund family is that they have bought a beachside condo on Maui. Go team!  Visits with the family and whale watching off Lanai have been major attractions. He said, “Dave Gordon ’61 and wife Ginny joined us, and we had fun reminiscing about our days at Delta Sigma.”

Paul Hadzima attended part of the Reunion & Commencement festivities in May. He was a participant in a roundtable discussion on the future of the college, hosted by the new College of Education, and attended a great reception afterward.  He was MAT ’61 and taught for 36 years.

Peter Rockefeller called to catch up. He left Wesleyan after sophomore year and finished his BA at Columbia. He is married to a ballerina and has two grown daughters and is still working on computer systems for several large clients. Hope he will make it back to the 65th.

Bing Leverich turned 85 on July 31. He is battling Parkinson’s, dementia, and a rare disease called amyloidosis.  Luize writes that Bing is doing well physically, walks 3 miles each day, and does calisthenics each evening. They are presently in Boulder.

John and Cyndy Spurdle are back on Fishers Island for five weeks and will have a houseful of children and grandchildren arriving from Scotland, England, Maine, and Montana, so a jolly reunion is planned, after all the COVID problems.  We are still living in NYC for the rest of the year, apart from trips to London, where I am still involved in helping the London Library.  We are having a party in New York to honor Tom Stoppard and his new play Leopoldstadt, which is opening shortly.

Steve Pyle, the tight end now turned painter, is still painting. His subject is various holes on wonderful golf courses, usually to commission. Perhaps this is therapy for a left knee that had too much football and golf.

Dick Cadigan has been on the move post COVID. Saw five of his six kids, plus grandkids, in California, and then off to Deerfield for reunion and Amherst to visit the Cadigan Religious Center. Then to New York to see son John for four days of museum hopping, then Las Vegas to see son Steve and twins, then home to rest!

The long-talked-about banner celebrating the ’59 basketball team is now hanging in the Silloway Gym.

Word from Reverend Cadigan on our 65th:“65ing and Still Thriving!!”

Don’t miss it, spring 2024! More about this in 2023, but put it on your calendar, NOW!

Four sad departures: John Driscoll ’62, an honorary member of the Class of ’59,after a long battle with Parkinson’s disease. Our love to Gina and the family. Ned Lemkemeier, “Mr. St. Louis,” who was a labor and employment attorney for 50 years, trusted advisor and counselor to many. Longtime class agent Ted Bromage passed away on September 10, 2022. A line from his obituary sums Ted up well: “Ted was driven by his personal interests, love for friends, and enthusiasm for meeting new people. He always leaned in and helped wherever and however he could.” Ted is survived by his wife of 62 years, Joan, a daughter, a son, and six grandchildren. And John Lloyd who departed on September 20, 2022. A silver lining of the pandemic was the creation of a standing Zoom call with his Wesleyan Alpha Delta Phi brothers. He is survived by his children (including Becky Lloyd DesRoches ’90) and grandchildren.

Excellent response, 15 emails and a couple of phone calls. Bob Wuerthner, with the aid of his physical therapist, plays doubles tennis twice a week. Biggest concern is the plight of the Red Sox.

Rosemary and Bill Krenz recently celebrated their 65th anniversary. And they made a donation for Ukrainian refugees. Well done!

Bill Barnes is adjusting to life without wife, Pat. For 35 years he has played viola in the Farmington Valley Symphony Orchestra. And he enjoys phone conversations with Bill Krenz, his old roommate.

And my old roommate Dan Woodhead sent a lengthy note describing his reclusive life. Perry Mason mysteries, the New York Times archives, and crossword puzzles are his main activities. He is immensely proud of his grandchildren, Stanford students and water polo players. He is still near the Safeway in north San Francisco.

Bob Furber talks of sorting through the clutter in his house, trying to find significant work he did during his 40 years as a mission analyst. One item he found was a memorandum he wrote during an all-night effort to derive the ”probability of hit.” He was successful and had developed a turbo basic code that saved his job, and the code is used presently to target the Hellfire Missile, which was used recently to assassinate Ayman al-Zawahiri in Afghanistan. Some health issues, but he enjoys waking up each morning.

Dick Seabury is well and needs 10 more years of life to finish his “to do” list.  He has done restorations on two old Dodge cars. Extra funds will go toward tuition for nine grandchildren. And he gives money and labor for Congressional candidates.

Bill Fryer is alive and well. He is involved with three other pastors merging four Lutheran congregations in Reading, Pennsylvania. He and Joanna spend much time with family.

Tom Mosher reports all is well. Had COVID in January, now fully recovered.

Burr and Pirkko Edwards are in southern France and are concerned about forest fires. Burr worries about the grapes as well. He and Pirkko have had four COVID shots.

Ezra Amsterdam is now working only 43 % of the time, still writing—two books are being readied. Still tennis and the Yankees. Is there anyone working more than he?

Janice and Tom Burns are now on their summer excursion, MidCoast Maine. Tom is still in northern Virginia, and he would like to hear from classmates at tomb221x@gmail.com.

Tony Codding curtailed travel due to COVID except for two weeks in Aruba. His main activity is to serve as secretary of his condo board.

Neil Henry had a sudden blackout on Monday, and by Tuesday had a pacemaker installed. Neil, my wife has one, it really helps!

Provincetown is the weekend getaway for Art Geltzer. He enjoys retirement and walks on the beach.

Bob and Kay Terkhorn took their first post-COVID trip. They cruised from Venice to Rome. All went well except for a mess at Heathrow Airport.

Bart Bolton writes from Massachusetts. He misses luncheons in Punta Gorda and is struggling with Parkinson’s. But he and his wife are great-grandparents. Well done!

I have had phone conversations with Art Levine, Rick Pank, and Ted Wieseman. All are OK, struggling with mobility. Kay and I are relatively well off, still worried about COVID, and contemplating a trip to Toronto. Will we contract COVID if we go?  Let you know if we did go next issue.

Keep the info flowing,

Cliff

In preparation for our 65th Reunion, Michael Schramm, director of Annual Giving, hosted a virtual Zoom meeting in April, joined by 10 of us. It was great to see faces and hear what long-ago classmates are doing to keep active. I understand the actual reunion was not well attended. Better luck for our 70th!

Mark Feldman writes he once had a boss with the first name of Roberts and promises not to call me “Bobs.” Last year he agreed to an oral interview about his experiences as an attorney in the D.C. area, including the State Department. His current project is to transcribe all that was discussed (https://adst.org/OH%20TOCs/Feldman.Mark.pdf). If you have a couple hours to kick back with an iced tea, it is fascinating, and long.

Ken Travis is no longer a northeasterner. He and Janice have relocated to Bainbridge Island, Washington, to be close to family. This past year they’ve been able to attend a grandson’s commissioning as a Marine Corps officer and a granddaughter’s wedding, plus their daughter Leslie ’85 became a grandmother. He does confess to missing that old Cape Cod.

Ed Porter continues to be a sailing-boat enthusiast, although he limits his cruises to local waters, no longer taking more adventurous coastal trips, when he had larger vessels to sail aboard. He wonders how many classmates are also still dealing with wind and tide in their spare time.

Gordon Wilmot is also a sailor. He and Marilyn spent two weeks in March looking for a future winter home, and found the beautiful town of Beaufort, South Carolina, not too far from where I live. They expect to escape the cold Rhode Island weather there. Severe cases of bronchitis kept them from attending our reunion.

I recently learned of the passing of Bill Daley. He was a longtime GE employee, as was I, and we even roomed together early in our careers in Schenectady, New York. Bill was very active in his Trumbull, Connecticut, community, as well as the Deke house at Wesleyan. Condolences to Barbara and his family.

Condolences also to the family of Naren Bali, who died at home in June, after a long cardiac illness, surrounded by his family. For many years he was an IT consultant at Techint SA de CV, a Mexican construction and engineering company.

Jim Killough’s daughter Sarah ’88 emails that Jim passed away last December. She attached a glowing tribute/obituary written by Evan M. Drutman ’86. You can view it by clicking on Jim’s name in the Obituaries section or here.

Betty and I made a long car trip to Canada this summer, for the sixth birthday of our last grandchild. We spent a week in the Georgian Bay area of Lake Huron. Beautiful country, and a lot for tourists to do.

Stay well.

Until next issue,

Bob

It’s been slim pickings this time around for our class notes.

But first, I’m sad to report that Al Grosman died on May 22 in Hingham, Massachusetts, where he and his wife of 55 years, Bette, had retired. He spent most of his life in New Jersey, where he practiced law with his family law firm and dabbled in local politics. He wrote a much-used textbook, New Jersey Family Law, and was involved in the Baby M surrogacy case. Baby M, incidentally, attended and graduated from—mercifully with little fanfare—the school district in which my Ann was a school nurse, but they were never in the same building together. Al, a self-described “world traveler and scholar of world history,” spoke Spanish, Portuguese, and French, and studied German, Romanian, Catalan, and Ladino. He loved folk music of all kinds and enjoyed playing the piano for family sing-alongs. He is survived by Bette, two daughters, Carol and Ellen, their spouses, and two granddaughters. Al was a loyal Wes grad (Phi Beta Kappa!) and a regular attender of our ’56 reunions. He will be missed.

Art von Au writes: “I recently read Vinod Busjeet’s (’73) novel Silent Winds, Dry Seas, which was featured in the Wesleyan Alumni Magazine (Winter 2021–2022). What an extraordinary gift! Set in Mauritius in the 1960s and 70s, it is a coming-of-age story. Wesleyan readers will recognize clues as his years at ‘Yale’ are a stand-in for Wesleyan. His novel has won widespread praise from some foremost American writers, and I recommend this remarkable novel to all Wesleyan readers. Perhaps the reading/discussion group that I have led for almost 50 years (now meeting on Zoom) will read it in the future.

“In family news, we have welcomed two great-grandsons this past year. Our three oldest grandchildren are all launched into jobs and family life, while the three youngest will all be in college this coming year. One granddaughter will be a junior at the University of Vermont and [another] a senior at Connecticut College. Our youngest grandson will be a freshman at Endicott College.

“We have enjoyed reading your family news and travels and hope that all is well with you.”

From Jim Gramentine: “Back in early June, I attended my 70th high school reunion at Western Reserve Academy. Regrettably, only one other ’52er was there, he a fine fellow, though an Amherst Mammoth. (Lord Jeff was done in by political correctness.) Depression born, only 38 graduated with us, but three others matriculated with me at Wesleyan: Bob Loos, Pete Schellenbach ’59, and Bill Mathews.”

And Bob Bretscher: “Thanks for keeping the Class of ’56 in touch. Unfortunately, I’m not communicating with anyone in our class at the moment. I’ll try to improve on this unintended situation soon. I’m still healthy, and happy to have just finished my self-published autobiography. My next task is to look into moving into a nearby retirement facility called ‘Presbyterian Village Athens’ sometime in the next 12 months. My best to you and other Wesmen.”

Last, but not least, Dick Bauer: “A celebration of life for Alan Grosman was held here at Linden Ponds on June 8th. Al not only distinguished himself in the field of family law, but in family life as well.

“No really great newsworthy stories from us. Ginny and I are faring pretty well. One of my quirky projects has been playing monthly piano concerts exploring various corners of the American Songbook.  Keeps me distracted from the world’s misery for a while.

“Good to learn about your family travels . . . even more to sense the warmth and strength of your family ties, and your stamina to relish them.

“Warm regards to my fellow Wes ’56ers.”

I have some space, so here’s what Art and Dick referenced.

Our whole family—one daughter, two sons, one daughter-in-law, one granddaughter, and a girlfriend—took us on a whirlwind tour of New York State: Cobleskill (my hometown); Cooperstown; Letchworth State Park (“The Grand Canyon of the East”), where we rented a house near Inspiration Point; Frank Lloyd Wright’s Martin House in Buffalo; and Niagara Falls (U.S. and Canadian sides). Along the way we visited with cousins, went to the Baseball Hall of Fame, rode the Maid of the Mist, and drove over the Peace Bridge from Buffalo to Fort Erie, Canada—my father’s major project between graduating from RPI and going back to China. In Cooperstown’s Doubleday Café, son David got down on one knee to reprise his 1999 proposal there to Cheryl, which she again accepted—to a hearty round of applause from one and all. All of this was to compensate us for our COVID-canceled Ireland tour of 2020. The younger set subsequently used our once frozen fares to tour Scandinavia. They just came home—all but one with COVID. We love them still.