Class of 1969, 40th Class Reunion

In the late Spring of 1969 a hundred or so of us walked solemnly across the stage to receive our diplomas. Fast forward your mind to August 1, 2009 and you have a brief Kodak moment of the celebration I attended and wish could extend for several days. I was eighteen again and the world was mine to conquer.

This celebration was held in the cafeteria at Fremont Ohio's Saint Joseph's Central Catholic (SJCC) High School. Walking into this building after being away for 40 years was a mind stimulation that is hard to describe. I had the Queen Goddess on my arm and a smile on my face but inside I was till the unsure young boy that ran from his own shadow.

The appetizer buffet was beautiful. The shrimp, cheese, and other finger food were presented attractively and tasted great. The "Social" Hour was humming as we arrived. There were some ancient folks milling around I though perhaps they were teachers that I had forgotten. I was wrong these were the guys and gals that walked these halls with me. I don't know how they got so gray, bald, and ancient looking... I certainly haven't changed that much.

Dinner came in an efficient manner. The food was also attractive and robust in flavor. (I gotta get that caterers name) We were blessed top be surrounded by old friends. To paraphrase a TV commercial "The new dress for the Queen Goddess, a new shirt and tie for me, were too much $$$ but the feeling of being with old friends was priceless." Good food, old friends, and now we have the awards.

There was the farthest traveled won by an attractive gal from sunny California. The most grandchildren I believe was nine but I missed who was the winner. The youngest grandchild was just hours old. The list was a bit long but the awards were filled with giggles and love. The committee had outdone themselves.

Our Class of '69 was mighty fine. I note today we are a group of leaders. There were 17 of us that have lead the way to a better place. We mourn their loss and celebrate their memories. There were over 40% of the remaining class in attendance. I sat with Civil Engineers, College Professors, University Food Service Manager, Medical Professionals Coaches, Lawyers, Teachers and some outstanding everyday folks.... it was and is an amazing bunch of guys and gals.

The plans for the 2014 reunion have begun almost before the dishes were washed and the floor swept. One suggestion was Jello wrestling and pole dancing... The committee will decide the format and the entertainment. Reggi, Patty, Sally, Phylis, Gary, and Nancy did a fabulous job on our 40^th reunion. I'm sure their leadership if only by example will make the 45^th reunion even better.... Mizpah ;-}}>