CLASS OF 1962 | 2026 | FALL ISSUE

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Robin Cook had to undergo a laminectomy of L2-L4 in May and says that he “much preferred doing such an operation as a surgical resident, to experiencing one now. Although I was forced to forego my daily biking for a month, I’m now back to it, plus swimming laps in the pool. At our age, exercise is more important than ever. As for my writing, which I never imagined I’d do at Wesleyan, I’ve just finished my 43rd medical thriller novel. I feel that I am the only person in the USA that benefits from our health-care system being the worst in the industrialized world, as far as actual health care to all its citizens is concerned, because I’m never going to run out of plot lines.” Robin included this wonderful photo of himself next to a young Michael Douglas, during the 1970s production of the film version of Robin’s book Coma.

Young Robin on set with a young Michael Douglas

Deepest sympathies to Bruce Menke, who reports the sad news of the passing of his beloved wife, Karen, who was lost to cancer after 59 years of happy marriage. Karen was Bruce’s partner in every sense of the word, including their joint and effective efforts on behalf of the Democratic party in Athens, Georgia. Karen’s obituary can be read here: Karen Menke.

Bill and Emily on the Firth River, looking north.

Bill Wortman writes: “The years zip along, but I try to keep active and busy. In late June, older daughter Emily and I made a 12-day, 150-mile rafting trip, camping and hiking along the Firth River in northern Yukon up to the Beaufort Sea/Arctic Ocean. This fall I’ll teach a five-session ‘class’ on Walt Whitman’s ‘Song of Myself’ for the local Learning in Retirement program, as well as give a presentation on my rafting trips. I’m active in Kiwanis, mainly in rustling up the weekly guest speakers, which keeps me in touch with interesting people in southwest Ohio. My three grandkids are finding their ways in Boston, Sydney (Australia), and St. Louis, apparently with suitable success and parental satisfaction. I’m torn between wishing we all lived closer and admiring their independent journeys.”

Finally, I am happy to report a wonderful catch-up visit, after 64 years(!), with my old Commons Club brother Len Wilson and his wife, Joyce. They were visiting Toronto for a convention of the International YMCA, an organization in which they both have had long and distinguished careers. Happily, they found time to make a side trip to the Fancher residence in suburban Oakville, where our old connection was immediately reestablished. They both remain very active in local philanthropic causes, and Len still plays a wicked game of pickleball. I can only envy that, as spinal stenosis limits my own athletic activity to an occasional, cart-assisted nine holes of golf.

Our 65th Reunion will take place on campus on May 21–23, 2027. Registration opens in March 2027. There will be more information in the coming months, or you may check wesleyan.edu/rc/reunion for updates.

RAY FANCHER | fancher@yorku.ca