Thomas McDonald resides in Fern Valley, AZ, rides his bike 8 miles a day and works at his church’s thrift shop. Also enjoys karaoke at the local Elks Lodge.

It is with great sadness that I report to all of you the death of my wife of 57 years, Leona (Lee) Porter Morack , class of ‘63 on September 5,2020.

Dr. Robert (Bob) Duncan Macmillan passed away peacefully at home during the early hours of October 9, 2019, after an extended battle with renal failure. He is survived by his children, Jean Keith, Bruce Macmillan, Doug Macmillan, Chris Jablonske, Robert Macmillan Jr., and Andrew Macmillan, and their loving spouses and children. He is preceded in death by his first wife, Portia R. Macmillan, and his second wife, Madeline M. Macmillan. Bob was born September 4, 1929 in Columbus, Ohio. He graduated from College of Wooster in 1951, and subsequently earned a Master of Science from Ohio State University. He then went on to earn his Doctor of Medicine degree from Ohio State. After Residency in Anesthesiology at Duke University and two years active duty in the United States Air Force, he chose to settle in Nashville, TN. Bob then went on to become one of the true pioneers of anesthesia in Nashville, starting both Middle Tennessee Anesthesia and Anesthesia Consultants of Nashville. Under his leadership, these groups then went on to merge to become Anesthesia Medical Group. He remained professionally active, practicing until the age of 77. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly suggests a donation to either the Friends of Radnor Lake or United Way. There will be a gathering of Family and Friends from two o’clock until four o’clock pm on Saturday, October 12th at Brentwood-Roesch-Patton Funeral Home, 9010 Church Street East.

BAZETTA — Martin M. Manning, age 79, passed away suddenly Tuesday, March 30, 2021.  He was born Feb. 4, 1942, in Pittsburgh, Pa., the son of Charles “Gene” and Olivella Fielder Manning and lived most of his life in Trumbull County near Cortland.  Martin was a graduate of Cortland High School Class of 1959 and the College of Wooster, later earning an MBA from the University of Pittsburgh. He worked as a landscaper and had his own company for many years, and he carefully tended his home garden each year, with a special interest in cultivating asparagus.  Martin was an outstanding athlete and played basketball and baseball at Cortland High School and later in the Warren Adult Basketball League as well as in the Mercer-Crawford Counties AA Baseball League and Pymatuning Area Wood Bat League until 2019. He also taught at Bristolville High School, Youngstown State University and taught and coached at Lakeview High School, mentoring young Cortland athletes for many years.  Precious memories of Martin live on with his loving wife of over 35 years, Donna Mastrangelo Manning, whom he married in August 1985; his daughter, Mary Manning of Lakewood; his brother, Charles (Gus) Manning of Livermore, Calif.; and his niece, Kate Manning of Varenna, Italy.  His parents, Charles and Olivella Manning, preceded him in death.  Cremation is taking place. A celebration of his life will take place at a later date.  Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of the Staton-Borowski Funeral Home, 962 North Road NE, Warren, OH 44483, 330-394-6200. Dedicated to serving your loved ones. This obituary may be viewed and condolences sent to www.statonborowskifuneralhome.com.  Those who remember Martin are invited to visit a website honoring Martin’s life that will soon be launched at www.martymanningmemorial.com.  Visitors to the site will be welcome to share remembrances with Martin’s friends and family.

I enjoyed very much being a part of our class’s zoom call Wednesday night.  I recognized a few names and know Don Dewald from living in Mansfield now but none of my  friends from Wooster days.  I was heavily involved in sports and 6th section so I was very curious what all of the others were doing with their time.  I would have loved to share what I have been doing since Wooster graduation.  I’ve had a pretty exciting life I think.  Maybe next time.

Thomas R. “Tom” Odenkirk, 90, of Cornwall, formerly of McLean, VA, passed away at his residence on Wednesday, March 24, 2021. He was the husband of Barbara A. Jekel Odenkirk. Tom was born in Cleveland, OH on March 5, 1931, son of the late Zane Coy and Ruth E. Stricklin Odenkirk. He was a US Army Veteran of the Korean War. Tom received a BA from College of Wooster and his MA from Michigan State. He was a retired analyst for the US Government. Tom In addition to his wife, Barbara, Tom is survived by his son John S., husband of Sharon Odenkirk of Washington, VA. Private family services will be held. In lieu of flowers the family suggests contributions in Tom’s memory may be made to your local Salvation Army. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Thomas R. “Tom” Odenkirk please visit our Sympathy Store.

Mortenson, Frederic Joseph (Joe) Phd
September 30, 1941 – July 13, 2021

Joe was born in Englewood, New Jersey and passed away at his home in Bodega, California with his wife, Hazel, by his side.

He leaves behind his son Leif, twins from a previous marriage (Ben and Kisa), sibling River, nephews and nieces, cousins Karel and Ellen, grandchildren and other extended family, as well as many friends and colleagues.

Joe received his PhD in experimental psychology from the University of Michigan, starting his animal studies with electric fish. He then taught at Dalhousie and Mount Saint Vincent University and conducted field studies on birds and skates in Nova Scotia. While there, he visited Sable Island and observed seals, developing a life-long passion for pinnipeds (i.e., seals and sea lions).

Joe moved to California where he lived on a communal sheep ranch in Bodega. There he met and married Hazel. For a time, he worked in San Francisco’s Presidio with the Gulf of the Farallons National Marine Sanctuary. He worked with Stewarts of the Coast and Red Woods where he trained volunteers to observe harbor seals and protect them during pupping season. He also worked with the Fort Ross Conservancy on a project he initiated to train volunteers to observe the Steller and California Sea Lions at Fort Ross using telescopes and binoculars. Both of these projects led to the creation of longitudinal data bases about these populations which Joe analyzed, and continue to be used to protect these threatened species to this day.

Joe wrote Animal Behavior: Theory and Research, Whale Songs and Wasp Nests: The Mystery of Animal Thinking and co-wrote the Field Guild to Marine Mammals of the Pacific Coast with Sarah Allen and Sophie Webb, which is a natural history guide put out by University of California.

Joe was a life-long learner who shared his passions with family, friends, and students. He was a fixture on the coastal headlands where he could be found watching seals and sea lions on Seal Rock from his perch on Bodega Head and ripping out invasive ice plant. He loved biking around Sebastopol in search of yard sale treasures; hiking the sheep filled meadows on the ranch; writing in his 8×10 ft iShack; researching in local libraries; and wandering among the red wood trees. He had a great sense of a humor and a belly laugh that could fill a room. He cared deeply for the earth, its flora and fauna and his family.

Please consider Joe’s legacy and make a donation to a charity that celebrates his passions, such as the
Stewarts of the Coast and Red Woods or the Memorial Hospice which helped care for Joe at home.

Niles Kinney Reimer passed peacefully into heaven and met his Lord Jesus Christ on December 21, 2019 with his son and grandson at his side, at Bonell Community Nursing home, Greeley, Colorado at age 92.  Niles is survived by his children, Mark (Marcie) Reimer, their children, Luke, Joel (Lexi), and Melanie; Martha (Craig) Allan, their children Katie and Mark, Becky (Rollie) Trapp and their children Ben (Megan Barnes, fiancée), Jake, and Ellen. He is also survived by his sister, Mary Jane Washburn. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Ann (Dickason) Reimer and his youngest daughter, Beth (Elizabeth).  Niles was born in Holyoke, Colorado to Charles and Helen (Kinney) Reimer on June 17, 1927 and grew up in Ft. Collins, Colorado. After graduating from high school, he served in the Merchant Marine as a radio officer at the end of World War II, and during that time he committed his life to following Jesus Christ. He attended Wooster College, Ohio, where he met his life partner, Ann, and married her in 1953 after graduating from college. He attended Princeton Seminary where he earned a Master of Divinity degree and was ordained in Ft. Collins in 1955. He and Ann traveled to Ethiopia in 1955 to begin serving with the Presbyterian church (PCUSA) in Southwestern Ethiopia with the Anywaa people. Niles developed a deep love of the Anywaa people and spent the rest of his life in service to them and to sharing the message of Jesus Christ. He worked as an evangelist, in church planting, pastor training, and Bible translation. He had the joyful experience of being part of the translation team that completed a translation of the Bible into the Anywaa language in 2013. He was awarded an honorary doctorate in language development from Mekane Yesus Seminary in 2009.  Niles was generous with others, a rigorous thinker who was widely read and informed, and excelled at reaching out to others to help or connect with their lives in meaningful ways. He loved to talk and tell stories, had a great enjoyment of life and laughter, and he threw himself into serving Jesus Christ and others all his life. His personal discipline and dependence on God, along with the care of his dedicated wife, enabled him to achieve many things while managing Type 1 diabetes and impaired vision. He always loved music, particularly hymns, classical, and spirituals, had a clear tenor voice, and played the trumpet. In his last years, he loved attending both Cornerstone Community Church and the First Presbyterian Church of LaSalle, and had a wide circle of friends from both churches who helped support his deep desire to remain living independently in his home as long as possible.  A celebration of life service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 1, 2019 at the Cornerstone Community Church, 1321 9th Avenue in Greeley, Colorado.  Memorials may be sent to Niles Reimer Memorial-Gambela Church Project, Cornerstone Community Church, 1321 9th Ave., Greeley, CO 80631, to support construction of an expansion of the Anywaa church in Gambela, Ethiopia.  The family would like to thank the many friends in Greeley who supported Niles: The Keefer family, his Monday prayer group including Paul Leavitt, Pastor Mike Fitzsimmons, who was a constant guide and help, Lila and John Trull, his neighborhood friends, Good Samaritan Services, Pathways Hospice, the church communities of Cornerstone Community Church and the First Presbyterian Church of LaSalle, and the loving staff at Bonell Nursing Home, who cared for Niles in his last days.  To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Niles Kinney Reimer please visit our Sympathy Store.

Mountain View, California – Glenn D. Meier, age 80, of Mountain View passed away Sunday, June 14, 2020, after battling prostate cancer. Glenn was born on September 29, 1939, in Wayne County, Ohio, and was the son of Glenn E. and Edith (Schnell) Meier. He is survived by daughters Denise (Collin) Klepfer of Berthoud, Colorado and Janine (Michael) McCurdy of San Jose, California and son Aaron (Beth) Meier of San Jose, California. He had five grandchildren Amanda, Alicia, Jennifer, Alec and Ben and two great-grandchildren Wesley and Lucas. A brother Charles Meier of Arizona and sisters Virginia John of Federated States of Micronesia, Rosemary Franceschini of Oregon and Kathy Miller of Ohio. He was preceded in death by his wife, Gwen and daughter Rachel, a sister, Jane Elizabeth and a brother, James Lee. Glenn was a 1957 graduate of Dalton (Ohio) High School, where he was enrolled in the Vo-Ag program and was a member of the Future Farmers of America. Glenn and Gwen relocated to California in the 1960’s with their two young daughters. A daughter and son were added to the family in California. He worked for 40 years as a computer programmer in multiple industries such as the City of Mountain View, Glorietta Foods, and Hewlett Packard to name a few. He was a dedicated donor of whole blood over his lifetime. Baseball was one of the things Glenn loved, particularly his Oakland A’s. Glenn was a person who touched everyone he met. He was known for his kindness, generosity, honesty and work ethic. He will be greatly missed by many people. Contributions can be made in Glenn’s honor to the American Cancer Society.

Mystic – The Rev. Richard Lorenz Van Deusen, 96, of Mystic died Wednesday, July 14, 2021, at Apple Rehab in Mystic. He was born May 1, 1925, in China, the son of Presbyterian missionaries, the Rev. Courtland C. and Mary (Lorenz) Van Deusen.  He grew up in Tsingtao (now Qingdao), China. He graduated from Mount Hermon School in Massachusetts in 1943. Richard served in the 397th Infantry in World War II. He was on the front line in northern France for 70 days, was captured with the whole F Company, and spent 97 days as a POW in Germany. He graduated from the College of Wooster in Ohio in 1949, and from Princeton Theological Seminary in New Jersey in 1952. He was ordained a Presbyterian Minister in Columbus, Ohio in 1952.  Richard served in pastorates in Ohio, Massachusetts, Connecticut, New York, and New Jersey. He was the organizing pastor of St. Andrew Presbyterian Church in Groton and was pastor there from 1962 to 1972. He retired to the Mystic area in 1990 where he remained active in church and community service. He served as guest pastor to area churches, served on committees of Presbytery, was a volunteer at Mystic Seaport for twelve years, and was an active member in Rotary Club of Mystic (a past president). He was an avid sailor, tennis player, and chess player. He loved to travel, especially to China. He returned there five times with tour groups.  He is survived by his daughter, Cynthia V. Bumps and her husband Don of Dowelltown, Tenn.; his son, David P. Van Deusen and his wife Barbara of South Windsor; five grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his first wife of 52 years, Alayne Palmer Van Deusen; by his second wife of 16 years, Lois Teft Van Deusen; and by his son Richard L. Van Deusen Jr.  A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, July 24, with a reception to follow at Saint Andrew Presbyterian Church, 310 Fort Hill Road, Groton. Memorial donations in his memory may be made to St. Andrew Presbyterian Church or Apple Rehab, 28 Broadway, Mystic, CT 06355. Samsel & Carmon Funeral Home in South Windsor is caring for the arrangements. For online condolences and guest book, please visit www.carmonfuneralhome.com. To plant trees in memory, please visit our Sympathy Store.  Published by The Day on Jul. 20, 2021.

Lawrence Rupp, ’58.  Our second Korea-era MAW member is Larry Rupp of New London, New Hampshire.    Larry was born and raised in Wauseon, Ohio and graduated from high school there in 1951.  Faced with the prospect of being drafted by the Army for the Korean War, Larry sought to control his destiny and joined the Coast Guard soon after graduation.  Following boot camp in Alameda, California, Larry was assigned to sea duty out of Sand Island Coast Guard Station in Honolulu.  He served as an Electrician’s Mate Third Class aboard the USCGC Ironwood (WLB-297NRPN), a buoy tender serving in what was then known as the “Pacific forward operating area.”  This vast territory included outlying areas in the Pacific, many of which were still occupied by the U.S. as a result of WWII, including Okinawa, the Caroline Islands, and Guam.  The ship’s primary mission was to remove, rehabilitate, and replace buoys in various ports.  Larry also spent four months in Yokosuka, Japan while the Ironwood was being repaired.  Following his tour in the Pacific, Larry was transferred to Woods Hole Coast Guard Station on Cape Cod, Massachusetts.  While there, he began to think about college and a local woman recommended that he consider the College of Wooster.  After his discharge, he enrolled at Wooster in the fall of 1954.  Larry majored in History.  During this time, the College required attendance at four mornings a week “Chapel Talks.”  In 1957 or 58, Larry attended a Chapel Talk that featured an expert on environmental issues and the problems associated with overpopulation and Peak Oil.   The discussion struck a chord with Larry, sparking a lifelong interest in population and environmental issues.  While at Wooster, he purchased and sold 250 copies of a book, published by the Medical Research Press, called “Sex Without Fear,” which discussed birth control, a slightly subversive activity at that time. The copy he donated to the Library appeared in the catalogue, but never showed up on the shelf.  Following graduation in 1958, Larry studied theology and sociology/psychology and graduated from the Episcopal Divinity School in Cambridge, Massachusetts.  In particular, he focused on issues associated with the intersection between science and faith.  After five years of a combination of parish work and and graduate study at Boston U. School of Theology, and another five years of teaching college Sociology, Larry pursued a career in public health with a rewarding 23-year career with the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services.  He spent 10 years involved in alcohol and drug rehabilitation and another 13 years building a Trauma System for eight hospitals and fifty percent of NH population, and upgrading training for every level of EMS from First Responders through Advanced Trauma Life support for Surgeons.  Larry retired in 1993 and has kept busy as an activist on population stabilization, reproductive rights, and immigration issues.  He also taught classes on Population and the Environment at the local branch of the University of New Hampshire. Hi Pete,  I see the Spring MAW  Newsletter featured Glenn Cronin, and it has rung a bell with me. During my Soph. Year at W.  I lived off campus in a private  upper floor residence. In a room across the hall lived another student, who I saw very little of, except to say HI as we passed in the hall/stairway. I kept my nose to the grindstone that year, and one semester got all grades in the A category, and I was also Dating . Glen, a year ahead of me,  I think seemed also to be hard working/studying, with his door seldom open.   Also, If you are still thinking of publishing info about me, there is a way to add some Korean/Mash related information.  The Korean MASH concept of quickly identifying and rapidly transporting the severely injured to a specialized unit/hospital that could immediately provide definitive surgical care (The Golden Hour) in order to save many lives, had never been implemented in the civilian world prior to1980. The problem was civilian hospitals were competing “for profit” entities, and the standing order to ambulances was “Take the Injured Patient to the Nearest Hospital”, where many/most died for lack of Golden Hour surgical care. There were very few Emergency Room Specialists at that time. The ERs were mostly staffed by all the MDs in the hospital taking turns being the “ER Doc”.   In 1980 there were only two Trauma Centers in the US, one in Chicago, and one in Maryland. The surgeon in charge of the Chicago Trauma Center was placed in charge of a Federal Program, with $$$.  He came to NH Public Health, Emergency Medical Services and said IF they would designate a Level 2 Trauma Center  in Manchester, and one in Nashua, between competing Protestant/RC hospitals in each city, he would provide a million dollars to NH to upgrade training at every level of Emergency Medical Services. A million $ may not sound like much today, but for NH EMS in 1980 it as a LOT of money.  NH Public Health/EMS accepted the offer, created a Region Two Council of twenty eight persons from the Eight Hospitals/Ambulance Services/RedCross/ETC. from the Region, which was the southern populous part of the State with eight hospitals that served fifty percent of the state population. They devised a process and designated the Protestant Hospital in Manchester and the RC Hospital in Nashua as Level II Trauma Centers. Crucial to the selection was the hospital TRUE level of interest and the willingness of Surgeons to answer the call to come at all hours when needed (Workable Field Triage Protocols were yet to be created!).  It was at this point that I was transferred from my work in the Program on Alcohol and Drug Abuse, to the position of Regional Coordinator for Region Two, to implement this grant program. My primary duties were as Executive Secretary to the 28 person Regional Council and its Committees, and to administer the funds for upgrading training for every level from EMS First Responder to the Advanced Trauma Life Support course for Surgeons/ER Docs.  Along the way, about 1985, before the small compact defibrillators we know today were available, I also made the arrangement for the first public use of an automated defibrillator In NH.  But that’s another story.  Larry in New London NH

Edward Frank (Ned) Willey 85, passed away at his Maple Knoll home in Cincinnati, Ohio on Friday, July 23, 2021.  Edward was a loving husband to Janet Barto Willey for 62 years. He was a wonderful father to David E. Willey (Allison) of Sebring, Florida, and Wendy W. Shoger (Kris) of Cincinnati, Ohio. He cherished his grandchildren Alexis, Cameron, Landon, Karsen, and Marika, and was awaiting the arrival of his first great-granddaughter in January. He is survived by his brother, Larry Willey (Joan).  His accomplishments were many. Ned was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Defiance for 73 years. He served as a Deacon, Elder and Clerk of Session for many years and taught senior high Sunday School. He traveled to Mexico on a mission trip to help build a church in a remote area of Mexico.  Ned graduated from Defiance High School (1954), pre-dental education at the College of Wooster (1956) and University of Michigan School of Dentistry (1960). Ned practiced dentistry for 41 years in Defiance, Ohio. He was a second-generation dentist practicing for 25 years with his father, Edward P. Willey, D.D.S.  Dr. Ned taught a generation of children in Defiance to swim at Kingsbury Pool. He continued to be the Red Cross Supervisor for swimming certification for many years. Dr. Willey was a past president of Maumee Valley Dental Society, Ohio Academy of Practice Administration, Defiance Kiwanis Club. He was the first president of the Defiance YMCA.  His greatest joy was participating in the lives of his children and grandchildren. He and Janet enjoyed traveling, golfing and sailing with close friends, and the University of Michigan athletics.  He and Janet relocated to Cincinnati in 2008 and he thoroughly loved his carefree life and new community of friends at Maple Knoll Village.  Dr. Edward Frank Willey left a legacy of excellence in spiritual life and family life.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Queen City Hospice or Maple Knoll Communities.

Searfoss, David Charles, 80, died on Thursday March 19, 2015 with his family by his side. He was born on August 6, 1934 in Doylestown, PA, where his father was a Presbyterian minister. David Charles was also a minister in The United Church of Canada and the Presbyterian Church USA. He was minister at Calvin Presbyterian in Louisville for 25 years. David was a joyful man and a faithful servant of the Lord.   He is preceded in death by his parents, David Arthur Searfoss and Loraine Tallakson Searfoss.  He is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Muriel Lawley Searfoss, and their five children: Kristin, Sarah Searfoss Paddon (Jonathon), Anna Searfoss Kammerer (Scott), David Paul Searfoss (Amy), and Rebecca Searfoss; and six  grandchildren, Emily, Kristin, Jacob, David, Nathaniel and Lucy.  The visitation will be on Monday, March 23, 2015 from 4-7 p.m. at Pearson’s Funeral Home, 149 Breckenridge Lane. The funeral service will be on Tuesday, March 24, 2015 at 11 a.m. at The Episcopal Church Home Chapel, 7504 Westport Rd.   “Sing praises to the Lord, O you his saints, and give thanks to His Holy Name. For His anger is but for a moment, and his favor is for a lifetime. Weeping may tarry for the night, but joy comes with the morning.” Psalm 30:4-5

On January 8, 2021, at 12:20 a.m., Samuel Willaman Siskowic of San Diego, California, entered the gates of Heaven free from pain and life’s struggles, to be reunited with his precious parents, his big brother, John, and his beloved son, Danny.Sam’s life began on September 7, 1933, in Struthers, Ohio, the second son born to John and Martha Willaman Siskowic. He attended St. Nicholas Elementary School and was a 1951 graduate of Struthers High School, where he excelled in football and is in the Struthers HS Athletic Hall of Fame. Sam was an outstanding student and was Salutatorian of his graduating class. He missed being Valedictorian because of the only “B” he got in high school, given to him by his U.S. Government teacher, Mr. Siskowic, his father!He continued his education at the College of Wooster, where his father and older brother had attended, and his two younger brothers would eventually also attend. While at Wooster, he played football and was an All-Ohio Conference linebacker for three years.Upon his college graduation in 1955, he joined the United States Marine Corps and reported to Camp Pendleton near Oceanside, CA, as a 2nd Lieutenant. After becoming Captain and fulfilling his duties, he left the service and was employed by Standard Oil of Ohio, and later as a stockbroker for Merrill Lynch. He then worked for the City of San Diego until he retired in 2000.He was Catholic by faith and a devoted husband to his wife, Polly Faubel Siskowic, whom he married in April 1989. In addition to Polly, he is survived by son Steve (Caroline) Siskowic of Texas; daughter Dawn Siskowic of Santee, CA; stepdaughters Renee Andrade and Maureen Judish; stepsons Tim Faubel, Peter Faubel and daughter-in-law Liz Siskowic, all of San Diego; brothers Dave Siskowic of Colorado and Paul (Cheryl) Siskowic of Ohio; eight grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.Sam was preceded in death by his parents, his brother John, and son, Dan.At Sam’s request there will be no service. Donations in Sam’s name may be made to the Cancer Society.  To Plant Memorial Trees in memory, please visit our Sympathy Store. Published in San Diego Union-Tribune on Jan. 31, 2021.

Congratulations to Scott Culler who was named the recipient of the American Chemical Society’s 2021 Award for Creative Invention! This award recognizes the work of a single inventor for the successful application of research in chemistry and/or chemical engineering that contributes to the material prosperity and happiness of people. Scott’s innovation on 3M abrasive products was the basis of the award. The award will be presented at the ACS meeting in Atlanta this fall. Scott and Susie Estill’s daughter Katrina will graduate from Wooster this year.

WOOSTER – Brian E. Stevens, 69, of Wooster passed away on Wednesday, January 8, 2020 at Wooster Community Hospital.  He was born August 19, 1950 in Mineola, NY, the son of Robert Edwin and Sybil Strickland Stevens.  Brian was a 1972 graduate of the College of Wooster and was a beloved high school Social Studies teacher at Centerville High School, Centerville, Ohio from 1972-2003 where he served as Head Boys Soccer Coach from 1987-2004 with an overall record of 349-65-50.  His coaching awards included National Soccer Coaches Association National High School Coach of the year in 1995, 3 time Ohio Scholastic Soccer Coaches Association Coach of the year, he was an Ohio Scholastic Soccer Coaches Association Hall of Fame Inductee in 2002 and College of Wooster Barrett Coach of the year in 2001. He served as President and Executive Director of the Ohio Scholastic Soccer Coaches Association.  Brian is survived by his children Tyler (Amy) Stevens of Louisville, Kentucky and Kathleen (Joe) Prudell of Corvallis, Oregon; grandchildren Liam Stevens and Ronan Purdell; siblings Christine (Jeff) Cornelius of Kay Largo, Florida and Robin Gigax of Wooster; nieces Debbie Danforth and Dale Young, and nephews Brian and Travis Gigax.  He was preceded in death by his parents and long-time companion, Marilyn “Mimi” Tissot Berman.  Private family services will be held at a later date.  McIntire, Bradham & Sleek Funeral Home, 216 E. Larwill St., Wooster is assisting the family.  Those who wish may make memorial contributions to Ohio’s Hospice LifeCare, 1900 Akron Rd., Wooster, OH 44691  Online condolences may be left for the family at www.mcintirebradhamsleek.com.

Joseph R. Durham has been recognized in the 2022 edition of The Best Lawyers in America© (Environmental Law)

I received this great news from Mauve Kinch ’77  and Brian Heater ’77, “We still live in Gainesville, VA just outside of Washington DC. We love the cultural offerings available to us, including a recent concert at the Kennedy Center by a Chicago jazz group conducted by our classmate Steed Cowart ’77. Great time to catch up and tell lies!  We also recently drove out to Wooster for the 25th anniversary concert by Brian Dykstra and Thomas Wood. Brian is continuing to teach Technology Education at the middle school level and Mauve is staying way too busy as a retiree.  We travel pretty much every summer with Germany three summers ago, Scotland last summer, including a stop at Dunvegan Castle, the seat of Clan McCloud and England this coming summer.”

Wooster – In the early hours of May 12, 2021, Robert Lee (Bob) Hoffee broke free of the bondages of Multiple Sclerosis and joyfully ran through the Gates of Heaven to meet his Savior.  Bob was born March 19, 1949 in Mount Vernon, Illinois, to Robert Griffin and Lauretta Haegle Hoffee. On March 30, 1975, Bob married Linda Windsor. She survives.  Bob is also survived by two sons, Robert (Kelly) Hoffee of Millersburg and William (Rachel) Hoffee of Wooster; Five grandchildren, Toren Hoffee, Marris Hoffee, Sloane Hoffee, Maxwell Kane and Jacob Kane; His sister Vickie Hoffee; niece Valerie (Bruce) Scott; and great niece Katelyn Scott, all from Illinois. Bob will be missed by his much loved canine companions Ainsley and Aiden.  Bob was preceded in death by his parents and a nephew, Marcus Keener.  Bob was raised in Fairfield, Illinois and graduated from Fairfield High School in 1967. Shortly after graduation Bob joined the Navy, serving as a Fire Technician on the Guided Missile Cruiser Chicago CG11. After serving, Bob worked for Birdwell Oilfield Services as a logging Engineer and Sales Representative until retirement. After retirement, Bob enrolled at The College of Wooster, graduating in 1991 with a degree in Geology.  Bob enjoyed playing cards online, listening to books on tape and viewing services from his church.  Services will be held Saturday, May 15, 2021 at 2:00 p.m. at the McIntire, Bradham & Sleek Funeral Home, 216 E. Larwill St., Wooster with Pastor Doug Gray officiating. Visitation will be 1 hour prior to the service. Masks are required and social distancing will be observed. Cremation will follow and private interment will be at a later date.  Masks are required and social distancing will be observed.  In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Multiple Sclerosis Society, 6155 Rockside Rd., Cleveland, OH 44131 in hopes that there will soon be a cure for this debilitating disease.  Online condolences may be left for the family at www.mcintirebradhamsleek.com.

Published on May 13, 2021

Courtney J. Miller is an intellectual property attorney in Ulmer’s Columbus office who focuses on U.S. and foreign patent procurement, IP portfolio management, patent opinions, technology development and commercialization, technology transactions, and various regulatory issues involving medical devices. A registered patent attorney with more than 20 years of experience, he counsels clients in a wide variety of industries, and has experience in biotechnology, molecular biology, immunology, medical devices, drug delivery systems, welding and joining technologies, and consumer products. Before practicing law, Miller worked as a research scientist in the biotechnology and medical products groups at Battelle Memorial Institute in Columbus, Ohio. He earned his undergraduate degree from The College of Wooster and his J.D. and LL.M from Capital University Law School.

A loving husband, parent, grandparent, educator, research scientist, and volunteer, Dr. David Alwin Wolff died peacefully, surrounded by his loving family in Plymouth, Massachusetts on March 10, 2021. He was 86.  Dave was born on November 2, 1934 in Cleveland, Ohio to Alwin Emil Wolff and Marion Perkins Wolff. He grew up as an only child in Brunswick, Ohio, where both his parents had strong roots, and graduated from Brunswick High School in 1952.  He received a bachelor’s degree from the College of Wooster in 1956. He served in the US Army from 1956 to 1959, which included work in a medical lab in Germany. He then attended the University of Cincinnati, where he received a Ph.D. in Microbiology.  Dave began his professional career at Ohio State University. During his tenure there (1965-1978) he was promoted from Assistant to Full Professor of Microbiology. He earned a distinguished teaching award in 1974. He later worked as a Medical Manager and Administrator at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in Bethesda, Maryland (1978-1997) and Associate Director of Medical Research Service and Rehabilitation Research Service for the US Department of Veterans Affairs in Washington, DC (1997-2002).  Dave was a caring, loving person, with sparkling eyes who was dedicated to his family and passionate about his role as an educator and researcher. He was an active member of the community throughout his life. His volunteer work included serving as an elder in the Presbyterian Church and president of the Parent Teacher Association (PTA), coaching baseball and soccer, and volunteering at a local hospital in Annapolis, Maryland. He was a devoted Boy Scout leader who embodied the Scout Law: Trustworthy, Loyal, Helpful, Friendly, Courteous, Kind, Obedient, Cheerful, Thrifty, Brave, Clean, and Reverent.  Dave lived life to its fullest. He loved hiking, camping, kayaking, sailing, and watching the sun set over the water. He enjoyed tinkering on his antique cars, cooking, and making his own wine. There was no home improvement project he couldn’t tackle.  He traveled extensively for work and leisure. His destinations included China, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, Central America, Canada, much of Western and Eastern Europe, Scandinavia, and all 50 states. In recent years he enjoyed trips to the Caribbean, Mexico, and Italy with his children and grandchildren, to whom he was a proud “Papa.”  Left to cherish his memory are his wife Linda Diane Wolff (nee Heding) and their children Andrew Vincent Wolff (wife Jennifer Wolff) of Norfolk, Massachusetts, and Lauren Mariruth Wolff (husband Kevin Kvalstad) of Santa Monica, California. He is also survived by two children from his previous marriage to Carol Anne Wolff (nee Kish): Kurt David Wolff (wife Amy Ventura) of Denver, Colorado, and Christopher Morris Wolff (wife Linda Wolff) of Tigard, Oregon. His six grandchildren, Emma, Violet, Ethan, Miles, and Gavin Wolff, and Victor Kvalstad, will also cherish his memory.  A private family burial was held on March 13, 2021. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Doctors Without Borders (doctorswithoutborders.org).  To plant a tree in memory of David Alwin Wolff, please visit our Tribute Store.  There are no events scheduled. You can still show your support by planting a tree in memory of David Alwin Wolff.

Marshall Myron Wright, age 92, went to sleep in the Lord on February 16, 2021 at 2:48 p.m. Marshall was born in the rural farming town of Pierpont, Ohio to the parents of Cyrus Butler and Marilla Lewis Wright. The Wright family was one of the five original families to settle in the town of Pierpont. The large family farm was ran with the help of seven children: the farm was the life blood of the family. Each child including Marshall, would rotate every seven weeks into the house to have a turn helping their Mother with the inside chores as the remaining siblings would continue life on the farm. This depression era life and work ethic instilled in him during his younger life, continuing with him into his adult life. Called to World War II, he would serve his country with great pride and he considered his military service with the United States Army one of his many great accomplishments. Marshall was the sole owner of two patents still on file with the US patent office in Washington, DC. He would later pursue his education with the assistance of the G.I. Bill, graduating from the College of Wooster, Pittsburgh Theological Seminary College and Washington Missionary College for Seminary. Sixty-One years ago, this big-hearted country boy would meet a big-hearted city girl city girl from Arlington, VA, June Lederer. Marshall and June would soon marry on February 12, 1960. The two would go on to raise four wonderful children as Marshall worked as a minister and Christian Records for 38 years and would spend summers assisting with various blind summer camps throughout the eastern United states. Marshall was a witness for Christ in his everyday walk with the Lord and through his faithful giving to various religious evangelistic endeavors. Marshalls memory and impact will not be forgotten by anyone who knew him. He was a bright beacon of hope in the ever darkening world as we know it today. The verse that will remain with us all till Jesus comes is Romans 14:8: “If we live, we live with the Lord, and if we die we die for the Lord. So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord.” (NIV) He was preceded in death by his brothers, Jimmy, Merton, Eber and his wife Celia Wright; brother-in-law, Loren Ring all of Pierpont, OH; and sister-in-law, Laura Dain Wright of Natick, MA. Survivors include his loving wife, June Wright of Murphy, NC; his children and spouses, Jack and Naliza Neal of Looneyville, WV, Wayne and Laura Wright of Murphy, NC, Ken and Ruth Wright of Indio, CA, and Lori and Jeff Patterson of Copperhill, TN; grandchildren, Chloe Neal, Crystal Neal, C.J. Neal, Obadiah Wright, Abigail Wright, Matthew Wright, Andrew Wright, Rebecca Wright, Scot Brunner, George Brunner, Sara Brunner, Jason Brunner; great grandchildren, Sophia Wright and Max Wright; brother, Bruce Wright of Nantick, MA; sisters and brother-in-law, Nancy Ring of Pierpont, OH and Marcia and Allan Schulte of Sarasota, FL. Memorial Services will be conducted on Saturday, March 20, 2021 at 2:00 p.m. from the Akins Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Robert Fancher andMr. Jeff Patterson officiating. Music will be provided by Scot and Sara Brunner. Interment will follow in the Mobile Baptist Church Cemetery with full Military Honors provided by the North Georgia Honor Guard. For those desiring, the family request that donations be made to the Marshall Wright Cohutta Springs Camp Scholarship Fund at P.O. Box 12000 Calhoun, GA 30703 or online at www.ultracamp.com. Condolences may be sent to the family online at www.akinsfuneralhome.com. Akins Funeral Home of Blue Ridge, GA is in charge of the arrangements.

Published on March 18, 2021

An update from Roderic Owen, Staunton, VA:   I  retired from Mary Baldwin University (formerly College)  in May, ’21 after many  years of service and   was honored to receive various awards and accolades.  I was inducted as an Honorary member of the Carpenter Society, recognized by the Spencer Center for Civic and Global Engagement,  and given the Sankofa Ally Award from the Office of African American Affairs & Inclusive Excellence.   I  also was asked to give the 2021 Commencement address*  and during  the ceremony I  was  given the prestigious Algernon Sydney Sullivan Award by President  Pamela Fox.    At another campus event  (to honor retirees) I  was recognized by the Dean  of Arts and Sciences  for my  four decades of service to the Liberal Arts. In short,  my colleagues  were very kind,  and both individually and collectively they showered me with diverse forms of recognition.     I now  face my greatest challenge: clearing out 41 years of files  and books by no later than mid-July!  All kidding aside, retirement will include the following: enjoying being a Taid (grandfather in Welsh), participating  in various Welsh choral and  cultural events;  travelling –both domestic and international (the UK and India);  day-hiking in the Blue Ridge Mtns; making a local move to another house;  and continuing to engage in community service activities through a civic club. Note:  my  wife (Linda Riedesel Owen ’77)  joins me in this next episode in the adventure of life….. and we both welcome making connections with fellow Wooster alum during retirement.

Former Tuscarawas County commissioner, civic leader and educator John W. Zion has died at age 92.  The New Philadelphia resident died Monday, March 8, in Cleveland Clinic Union Hospital in  Dover.  Retired Tuscarawas County Court of Common Pleas Judge Roger Lile had Zion as his English teacher his sophomore year.  “He’d also talk about history, so he provided a good foundation for when I went to college,” said Lile, who now resides in Dover.  “He was always fun to be around and just a pleasant, easy-going person,” Lile said. “I think that he really lived a long time because he didn’t get excited and upset about something he couldn’t take care of doing. He was great as one of our three county commissioners we worked with during the annual budget process, and later the renovations to the courthouse. It really made much nicer conditions for the jury. My courtroom had been the law library for years before being converted into Courtroom No. 2.”  After graduating from New Philadelphia High School in 1946, Zion enlisted in the United States Army and served from 1946-1947.  He then obtained his Bachelor of Education Degree from the College of Wooster and later his Master’s in Education and also his Educational Specialist endorsement from Kent State University. Zion spent 20 years with the New Philadelphia City Schools District as an educator and later seven years as Athletic Director. He later turned his focus to the administrative side of education and worked for 20 years with the Tuscarawas County Board of Education as a supervisor.  Zion also was a civic leader, serving on New Philadelphia City Council and later serving three terms as a Tuscarawas County Commissioner. He was active in the community at the First United Methodist Church at New Philadelphia, and a longtime member of the New Philadelphia Lions Club, a diehard Quaker sports fan and member of the Quaker Club.  He was an avid golfer, and enjoyed attending auctions and collecting Degenhart Glass.  He is survived by his wife of 72 years, the former Georgia Fitch, whom he married on New Year’s Day in 1949; their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.  A memorial service will be led by Pastor Brandon Keck, on Wednesday, March 17, at 1 p.m. in Linn-Hert-Geib Funeral Home & Crematory in New Philadelphia, where calling hours are one hour prior to services. Attendees must wear masks and observe social distancing.  Memorial contributions in Zion’s name may be directed to the First United Methodist Church, 201 West High Avenue, New Philadelphia, OH 44663.

This is to inform everyone of the death of my wife (Kerri (Ford) Ross (81) earlier this week after a brief illness).

Dr. Thomas J. Geyer died at home on July 27, 2019 lovingly cared for by his wife of 33 years, Anne Huggins Geyer, and his two daughters – Elizabeth Anne Geyer and Renée Frances Geyer. He lived his last months with amazing grace and in a state of gratefulness for his family, friends and for his life. Tom was born in Berwyn Pennsylvania in October 1955 to Charlie and Hattie Lu (Rogers) Geyer.  He was the fifth of 6 brothers and sisters   – Charlie Geyer, Pleas Gyer (Scott), Fran Pestello (Fred), Ruth Shaw (Frank); and Helen Geyer (Mark Anthony). They and their children’s visits, love, and shared memories uplifted Tom’s spirit during his life and last months. Tom graduated with a degree in Chemistry from Wooster College (Ohio) in 1983. He then went on to the University of South Carolina where he earned a PhD in Physical Chemistry and met and married his wife Anne. He did a postdoctoral fellowship for the Navy for a year and then taught Chemistry at the Naval Academy in Annapolis for two years. He next worked in industry for several years, first in Durham NC, then in Fredericksburg VA. His work involved monitoring air emissions.  Eventually he went back to the role he most enjoyed and taught high school chemistry at Fredericksburg Academy. He got great joy from his students, no matter their level of interest in chemistry. Tom was a member in Trinity Episcopal Church in Fredericksburg VA.; an avid fan of Philadelphia sports and was always interested in continuing to learn, particularly about science and history.  He had a wonderful dry wit. He was a kind, humble man who will be missed by many.  A memorial gathering to celebrate his life will take place later, likely in the spring. The family is grateful to all the support they have received. If contributions wish to be made to Wooster in honor of Tom, please direct them to the Crandall House Scholarship.

David J. Slobodien Family-first world explorer, avid reader and lifelong learner One month before the Summer of 1952, the lives of Sally and Howard Slobodien were immeasurably changed when they brought the first of four beautiful sons into the world. With sparkling blue eyes and a wry smile, over the next 68 years, David Joseph Slobodien would capture the hearts and minds of many with warmth, grace, intellect, and passion. His warmth and passion were embodied by his unwavering, everlasting love for his life partner, Bonnie MacMillin, with whom he fell head over heels in love as freshmen at the College of Wooster in 1970. By June 1974, they were husband and wife – a union of best friends that would last 47 years. This young, married couple began their life together in St. Louis where Dave earned JD and MBA degrees from Washington University in 1977. By the time they returned to Metuchen, NJ, they were the proud parents of three beautiful children: daughter, Anne, and twins, Mark and Phil. After a successful career as a corporate attorney with Dun & Bradstreet, Dave began an exciting new chapter of world travels, doting on their children, celebrating the arrivals of five grandchildren, and achieving a sub-10 golf handicap. Dave was the embodiment of a joiner, a doer, and a leader. Would you serve on our board, Dave? Sure! How can I help? Starting with the First Presbyterian Church of Metuchen, Raritan Bay Medical Center, and Metuchen-Edison YMCA, Dave’s presidencies of the Black Tie club (Washington, DC), the Metuchen/Edison Exchange Club, the Metuchen Hunt & Riding Club, and the Windstar Club Charitable Foundation would create lasting, meaningful changes. The Windstar on Naples Bay Country Club benefited from his eight years of service. Opera Naples was looking forward to his leadership as Treasurer. A recent appointment to the Bayshore/Gateway Local Redevelopment Advisory Board was yet another nod to his influence and community impact. Dave and Bonnie explored the world by air, land, and sea. An avid reader and lifelong learner, Dave enjoyed spirited conversations on topics ranging from politics and law to cooking and popular culture. Dave craved new experiences, foods, and ideas. Dave is survived by his life partner, Bonnie; three adored children and their spouses (Anne and Jimmy Hauer of Rockville, MD; Mark and Rachael of Alexandria, VA, and Phil and Shannon of Midlothian, VA); five loving grandchildren (JP, Lexi, Michael David, Mackenzie, and Anna Claire); three brothers and sisters-in-law (Don and Amy, Dan and Sandy, and Doug and Elaine); his Aunt Gail and Uncle Stan; niece Kelly; and nephews Ben, Brook, Robin, Lee, and Christopher. Dave defined his own life as family-first. He was faithfully devoted to Bonnie, to his children and their children, his brothers, and his aunt and uncle. Family was – and would always be – his Number One priority. Cremation was immediate and private. A “Celebration of Life” will be held at Windstar on Naples Bay on November 13, 2021. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Dave’s memory to the Windstar Club Charitable Foundation, 1700 Windstar Blvd., Naples, FL 34112-4200. To plant trees in memory, please visit our Sympathy Store.  Published by The Star-Ledger from May 22 to May 23, 2021.

Man, I couldn’t have picked a better time to relocate to Northeast Florida!  My wife Amy and I moved down here to our condo in St. Augustine, FL in August where the breeze is strong, beaches are beautiful and it’s relaxed compared to the martial law of Maryland!  I’m a Realtor here and it’s unbelievable how many people are moving to Florida and how much new construction there is!  There are a few alums around, Andy Dykstra ’93 in Ponte Vedra and Ken Klein ’91 is down the coast by a few hours.  If there are any alums closeby give me a shout!

Mr. John Colin Zazzaro, age 54, of Rome, GA, passed away Tuesday afternoon, August 24, 2021. Mr. Zazzaro was born in Greensburg, PA on September 30, 1966, son of the late Rocco and Adeline Colantino Zazzaro.  He was a graduate of Greensburg Central Catholic School.  He received his B. A. in History from College of Wooster, Wooster, Ohio, and his M. A. in Social Sciences from Wesleyan University in Middletown, CT.  Prior to his teaching at Darlington School, he taught at Carolina Day School in Asheville, NC for 9 years.  He currently served as Upper School History Teacher and was a former Head of Neville House.  He also served as Assistant Coach for Boys and Girls Tennis.  “Big John” was “John of all Trades” at Camp Androscoggin in Wayne, ME, where he served for 30 years.  He was a communicant of St. Mary’s Catholic Church. Survivors include his wife, Bethany “Bebe” Zazzaro, to whom he was married on April 4, 1998; twin sons, Colin and Casey Zazzaro, both of Rome; his sister, Roxanne Zazzaro, Cottontown, TN; his brother, Rocky Zazzaro (Kim), Cottontown, TN; one niece, Chloe Neilson; 3 nephews, Patrick Zazzaro (Sheldyn), Thomas Zazzaro, and Christian Neilson. A Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, August 28, 2021, at 2pm at Morris Chapel on the campus of Darlington School.  Father Carlos Ortega will be the Celebrant. Masks are required indoors on campus at Darlington School.  The service will be live streamed on the Darlington School website. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you please consider supporting a Darlington student by making a donation to Darlington School, 1014 Cave Spring Road, Rome, GA 30161 or www.darlingtonschool.org/Giving/GiveOnline or to the Camp Androscoggin Alumni Scholarship Fund for Camperships, 601 West Street, Harrison, NY  10528.  Both were special places for John. Henderson & Sons Funeral Home, South Chapel, has charge of the funeral arrangements.

Darlington’s Chris Hunter Stadium will be filled with Hawaiian shirts (and likely some Crocs) at the Tigers’ first home game this Friday in memory of history teacher John Zazzaro, who passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday after having a medical emergency during class.    “It’s hard for me to imagine how Darlington will be without ‘Z’ — such a big-hearted personality, full of laughter and a passion for working with students,” said Doug Hamil, head of Moser House and close friend. “Whether he was bluntly giving you his opinion or causing the room to burst out in laughter, he was always a genuine soul.”   In true John Zazzaro spirit, the Tigers plan to play “Victory March,” the Notre Dame fight song, and have tater tot nachos on hand in the concession stand, which Zazzaro had planned to run this season. The players will also wear “Z” heart decals on their helmets and cheerleaders will have a batch of “Z” heart T-shirts to throw to fans in the stands.   “As deeply as we all miss John, you can’t memorialize him with sadness,” said Hamil. “I can’t think of any better place to celebrate his spirit than at a Friday night football game.”   A member of Darlington’s faculty since 2011, Zazzaro began his tenure as head of Neville House, one of three boys’ residence halls at Darlington. He and his wife Bebe, Pre-K to 8 counselor, raised their sons, Colin (‘19) and Casey (’19), in Neville House alongside young men from all over the country and the world.    “Mr. Z treated me — as well as all of my other friends in Neville House — like a son,” said Cam Watson (‘19). “He never failed to bring a smile to our faces and bring us up when we were feeling down or homesick. He was always my No. 1 fan at football games when I knew my parents couldn’t be at all of them. Mr. Z did so much for me, and I know I wouldn’t be where I am today without him. I am going to miss him so much. He made Darlington feel like a home to me.”   Nic Scoccimaro (’14) called Zazzaro a shining example of Darlington’s Motto: “Wisdom More Than Knowledge; Service Beyond Self; Honor Above Everything.”   “My greatest memories of John Zazzaro can’t be boiled down to a few highlights — it was the day-to-day memories that stick: the perpetual grin he wore, the birthday dinners he made for us, inside jokes yelled down hallways, and the countless times he was available for us to confide in,” he said. “Mr. Zazzaro was a great father, leader, mentor and teacher. He was the glue that held us together.”   Classmate Kwabe Kumi (’14) echoed these sentiments. “I truly believe the ‘home away from home’ culture that I experienced in my time at Darlington is mostly attributed to Mr. Z,” he said. “He created that urge which made many of us excited to leave our homes at the end of summer or winter break and get back to Neville House. Most importantly, he created the foundation that built us into men. He was a father to so many of us and treated us no differently than treated his own sons. Mr. Z molded me not only into a more compassionate person, but a person who could be honest and true to myself and others. I can speak for many of my closest friends when I say that his impact on our lives will never be forgotten, and his memory will always be cherished.”   As a member of the student life team, Zazzaro worked extensively with Darlington’s student leadership organizations, serving as faculty advisor of the Student Council and spearheading the Boys’ Life program, which provides life skills to help boarding students develop a greater understanding of themselves and their community at large.   After eight years as a head of house, Zazzaro entered the classroom full time in 2019, teaching AP Human Geography and Modern World History. He was also assistant coach of the boys’ and girls’ varsity tennis teams.   “John was a wonderful teacher and a valued member of our department,” said Brian Inman, chairman of the history department. “His passion for teaching, gregarious personality, and love for his students made every day in his classroom a special one. His progressive teaching style and creative ideas were at the forefront of Darlington’s mission as a school. John’s absence will leave a deep void which will be felt by his fellow teachers and students. We will miss him immeasurably.”   Zazzaro’s lifelong love of teaching and learning has impacted young people far beyond Darlington’s gates. Prior to his work here, he served as chairman of the history department and athletic coach at Carolina Day School in Asheville, N.C., as well as a teacher, dorm parent, and coach at Christchurch School in Virginia.    Additionally, he and Bebe have spent their summers working at Camp Androscoggin, an all-boys summer camp in Maine, for three decades. In fact, that is where the couple first met.    “John loved the magic of summer at camp,” said Hamil. “Those experiences inspired most of the dorm events and campus activities that he created here. Even his beloved Sausagefest, a cookout where the boys’ dorms feast on a variety of sausage from around the world, found its way from Maine to Darlington during his time as head of Neville House.”   Neville House alumnus Noah Katz (’14) even had the opportunity to work alongside the Zazzaros at camp one summer.   “Mr. Z made me feel like a part of his family, not just a member of his dorm,” he said. “He pushed me to excel and was there every step of my high-school career and beyond. When I was a college freshman, unsure of what to do with my summer, Mr. Z went out of his way to help me find a job at the summer camp where he and his family were an institution. That selfless action is just one indicator of the type of man John Zazzaro was: an inspiration, a leader, and above all, a champion. He will be sorely missed by all who knew him.”   In a letter to his advisees at the start of the current school year, Zazzaro shared a lesson he learned at Camp Androscoggin this past summer.   “There is a constant thread that binds us all,” he wrote. “Some call it the Golden Rule. I have learned throughout my life that ‘Do unto others as you would have them do unto you’ is a thought that is present in every religion and society. At my camp, we have a motto that speaks to this message: ‘Help the other fellow.’ And, this summer I have rediscovered that message and came to realize that, much like the Golden Rule, it is just that simple…   “Helping the other fellow is exactly how we were successful [at Darlington] last year and will be again in 2021-22,” he continued. “I challenge all of you to live by the Rule. Put others first! Look around you, lend a hand where needed, put the community, the team, and the class before your own needs … This year, I want each of you to set goals for yourself based on the idea of looking outward. What can you do to make others around you more successful? What can you do to make Darlington a better place? How can you help the other fellow? I think that you will discover that if you are successful with these goals that the rest of your own personal goals will happen more easily and readily.”   When applying at Darlington in 2011, Zazzaro described himself as an experienced educator committed to the educational, spiritual, moral, and social development of young adults; an enthusiastic and innovative planner of curriculum, activities, and non-traditional educational opportunities; and a fun-loving, open-minded, and nurturing educator.   “These words truly encapsulate John and all that he has done at Darlington and elsewhere during his career as an educator,” said Matthew Peer, director of enrollment management and former director of Upper School, who hired Zazzaro.    “John has worn many hats during his tenure in independent schools and the one he wore proudest was that of student advocate. Whether he was sitting with a student in the emergency room at 2 a.m.; or in a Disciplinary Committee meeting after school; or during a free period in his office, classroom, or The Growl, he was always there for our students here at Darlington,” Peer continued. “John realized that the life lessons taught outside of the classroom were just as important as the wisdom learned inside of it. I am confident that there will be generations of students who will be better people, partners and parents because they had the opportunity to learn how to live life from Mr. Z.”   Social media feeds are a sea of purple this week as members of the Darlington Community show their love for Zazzaro and his family with a “Z” heart graphic designed by Hamil. Stickers and decals featuring the graphic will be available in The DAR Shop soon.   There is no doubt that John Zazzaro and his larger-than-life personality will be missed at Darlington. Please continue to keep his family, friends and students in your thoughts and prayers during the difficult days ahead.    A Celebration of Life service will take place this Saturday, Aug. 28, at 2 p.m. in Darlington School’s Morris Chapel. The service will be live streamed at www.darlingtonschool.org/zazzaro. The school also held a student-organized vigil at Chris Hunter Stadium on Aug. 24 and a prayer service in Morris Chapel on Aug. 25.   Additionally, a GoFundMe page has been set up for the Zazzaro family by coworkers. Click here if you would like to make a contribution and click here to read John Zazzaro’s full obituary.

William (Bill) Aiken Bradshaw, III, 65, of Roswell, NM, peacefully passed away on Sunday, May 9, 2021, in Woodland Park, Colorado, where he had just realized his dream of completing his ministry studies at Charis Bible College.  Bill was born on February 19, 1956, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to Dr. William A. Bradshaw, Jr. and Mrs. Joan S. Bradshaw, who both preceded him in death. He was the beloved husband of Kelly Bradshaw; loving father of Zach Bradshaw (Tiler) and Hannah Bradshaw; proud grandfather of Declan Bradshaw; cherished brother of Nancy (Kent) Foster, Jody (Lewis) Fisher; fun uncle to Will (Meg) Humphrey, Connie Humphrey, Liz Humphrey, Ryan Foster, Logan Foster, Carolyn Fisher and Brendan Fisher, all of whom survive him, and his sister, Amy Humphrey, who preceded him in death.  Bill was raised in Pittsburgh, PA. He inherited his love of coffee from his mom, his preference for ice cream from his father and learned his fierce competitiveness from being the oldest with three younger sisters. After graduating from the College of Wooster in Ohio, he found himself back in the ‘Burgh working steel before landing a job in Hobbs, America, where he met his lifelong partner and wife of 38 years, Kelly Grogan Bradshaw. The two of them moved to Midland and Amarillo where he earned a master’s degree from West Texas State University. Bill and Kelly then settled in Roswell where they started and raised their family.  Bill had blue eyes, where his vibrant smile started, fingers that danced over the piano, and a quick wit that made lifelong friends out of strangers everywhere he went. He taught us to order pizza when mom was traveling and to start every interaction with acceptance and love. His love for his family was only surpassed by his deep love for God, which he shared at every opportunity.  Bill enjoyed spending his free time swimming competitively and in lakes, fishing and hiking with his family, road biking, carving a mountain while skiing, and challenging anyone around to a game of table tennis. These were all just excuses for spending time and laughing with his many dear friends. He was known for his generosity and treated everyone with the same respect.  Throughout his life, Bill was always involved in his community. Whether it was gathering food for mission trips, building homes for those without, or lending a helping hand to anyone he met, he always took the time to show God’s love to people. He set swim records as a member of the Shady Side Academy High School Swim team, was an active member of the American Association of Petroleum Geologists, the Roswell Geological Society, and was a former board member for Rivers of Life in Roswell, NM. No matter where he was or what he was doing, he had a positive impact on everyone around him.  Bill found time to be an incredible athlete, a visionary geologist, a terrible dancer, and a dedicated family man. He never shied away from an adventure, and had a zest for learning. His life was not free of hardship, which he handled with humor, compassion, and with a little help from a fishing pole and a canoe. He leaves many friends behind to lovingly remember him and his loud, joyful laugh. He also leaves a legacy of caring for people, and sharing the love of Jesus Christ with them.  A service will be held at 3:00 p.m. Thursday, May 20, 2021 at Christ’s Church in Roswell, 2200 N. Sycamore. In lieu of flowers the family respectfully suggests memorial contributions to the Huntington’s Disease Society of America, 505 8th Avenue, Suite 902, New York, NY 10018 (restricted for Research) or a charity of your choice. Most of all, Bill would appreciate an act of kindness to a stranger: be it a smile, a helping hand, a cup of coffee, and certainly some ice cream.

Longtime Beacon Journal columnist Bob Dyer, who is a grad of Wooster, will announce his retirement on Sunday.  (that’s a secret until then) He is one of the most accomplished journalists in Ohio history. Don’t know if the college wants to acknowledge his career in some way, but here is his bio from Akron’s Daily Miracle, a new book he helped us with. Bob Dyer has served as a feature writer, radio/TV writer, investigative reporter and general-interest columnist since joining the Beacon Journal in 1984. Dyer’s stories and columns have won 81 regional and national awards. In 2008, the National Society of Professional Journalists voted him Best Columnist in the Nation. In 2013, the National Society of Newspaper Columnists named him Best Humor Columnist in the Nation. The College of Wooster graduate has been named Best Columnist in Ohio 11 times. The Cleveland native also was one of the lead writers for A Question of Color, a yearlong examination of racial attitudes in Akron that won a Pulitzer Prize in 1994. In addition, he has written three books. One of them, “Omar! My Life On and Off the Field,” an autobiography co-written with Cleveland Indians baseball star Omar Vizquel, spent four weeks on the New York Times bestseller list in 2002. In 2015, Dyer was inducted into the Cleveland Journalism Hall of Fame.

I was an exchange student for 1970-71 from Waseda University, Japan. This was my first overseas study and proved to be a life changing experience for me. Subsequently I worked in energy and environment including 5 years with the Clinton Foundation.   U S and indeed the whole world is facing a huge crisis due to the pandemic. I only hope that with s more sensible political leadership we will see a better and safer world in 2021 and beyond.  Best wishes to all the Wooster friends.  Eiji Wakiwaka  Tokyo

John M. Urling, 75, loving husband and father of three sons, passed away peacefully at home after a lengthy illness of pulmonary fibrosis. John was born on January 21, 1944, in Steubenville, Ohio, to George A. and Ruth (Keiser) Urling. He graduated from Steubenville High School in 1962, attended The College of Wooster in Ohio, and graduated with a business administration major and a psychology minor in 1971 from Northland College in Ashland, Wisconsin. In 1965, John was drafted into the U.S. Army, and graduated from the Artillery and Missile Officer Candidate School in Fort Sill, Oklahoma. From 1966 to 1967, he was an artillery forward observer in the Vietnam War. He was awarded the Vietnam Cross of Gallantry and the Bronze Star for Valor, along with the Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and Good Conduct Medal. He was honorably discharged at the rank of Captain in 1968. John loved his country and proudly flew the American flag every day at his home. In the historic summer of 1969, John entered Northland College to finish his degree. He met Sheila Dale his first night on campus, and they fell in love while sharing their common interest in that turbulent time. On February 12, 1972, at St. Agnes Church, John married Sheila, the love of his life. Three sons blessed their lives: Scott, Michael, and David. John was a loyal family man, and enjoyed family and friend gatherings. He worked as an accountant at Ashland Community Hospital, and was the Chief Financial Officer during the transition to Memorial Medical Center. His next work was a Northland College Admissions Counselor, followed by Director of Admissions. He also worked part-time as a park ranger for Big Bay State Park and as a US Postal Service Route Carrier. In 1985, John started work as the Ashland County Veterans Service Officer, remaining in that position for 20 years until his retirement in 2006. He felt that serving veterans and their dependents was his best and most rewarding work. John loved the outdoors and enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, and his activities in the Rod and Gun Club. He played softball, tennis, and golf; was a great fan of the Green Bay Packers and Milwaukee Brewers; and followed numerous sports enthusiastically. He was a life member of the Vietnam Veterans of America, American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, and Chequamegon Veterans. For 47 years, John was a member of the B.P.O. Elks Lodge #137, serving as Exalted Ruler from 1984-1985, and as a trustee. He was a Little League coach, a poll worker, and served as a board member of United Presbyterian Congregational Church and Friends of Vaughn Library. He loved the Lord and enjoyed volunteering for Faith in Action in his retirement, along with driving veterans to VA hospitals and appointments. John is survived by his wife of 47 years, Sheila; sons Scott of Cottage Grove, Minnesota; Michael of Biddeford, Maine; and David of Washburn, Wisconsin; his sister, Jane Urling of Ashland; brother George (Kim) Urling of Holland, Michigan; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents. A Memorial Service for John will take place on Friday, June 7, at 11:00 a.m., at United Presbyterian Congregational Church in Ashland, with Reverend James Deters officiating. A gathering of family and friends will start at 9:00 a.m. Interment will take place with Military honors under the auspices of the United Chequamegon Area Veterans in Mount Hope Cemetery, Ashland, WI. Memorials may be made to United Presbyterian Congregational Church, 214 Vaughn Ave; or Regional Hospice, 1913 Beaser Ave., Ashland, WI, 54806. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Mountain Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Ashland and Mellen, WI.

Jodine Kay (Alexander) Long Of Shreve Passed Away Peacefully At Home On February 17th, 2021. She Was 72. Jody Was Born On Feb. 6, 1949 To Kenneth S. Alexander And Pauline L. (Shank) Alexander Of Shreve. She Graduated From Triway High School In 1967 And Earned Her Bachelor’s Degree In Chemistry From The College Of Wooster In 1971. On May 16th Of That Year Jody Married Frederick E. Long Of Wooster, With The Ceremony Performed At The Apple Creek United Methodist Church By Reverend Whorley. In 1975 She Earned Her Master’s Degree From The Ohio State University College Of Pharmacy And Began Serving As A Pharmacist To Communities Across Wayne And Holmes Counties. In 1977 She And Fred Were Joined By A Son, Geoffrey A. Long. Jody was a lifelong lover of gardening, books, interior design, art and antiques. She pursued these passions on numerous trips with her family across the country and internationally, including a trip to London, Edinburgh and Paris in 1999. She also loved genealogy and history, and helped the County Line Historical Society of Wayne and Holmes Counties publish There’s No Place Like Home: Shreve, Ohio, USA 1853-2003. Jody was preceded in death by her father Ken and her mother Pauline, her aunts and uncles Walter and Nancy Shank and Merle and Marcella Howman, all of Shreve, and her father-in-law Herbert Long and mother-in-law Jean Long of Wooster.   She is survived by her husband Fred, her son Geoff, her daughter-in-law Laura A. (Thomas) Long and her beloved granddaughter Zoe E. Long.   Private family services will be held with burial at Wooster Cemetery. Schlabach Funeral Home in Shreve is handling the arrangements. Those wishing to share a memory or make online condolences may do so by visiting www.schlabachfh.com. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the County Line Historical Society. To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Jody K. Long, please visit our Tribute Store.

The Life and Times of a One-Armed Surgeon by Morris A. Robbins, M.D., compiled and annotated by Dorothy Robbins Talavera, published by Book Baby 2021  Morris Robbins was a perfectly normal boy who dreamed of becoming a surgeon.  A near-fatal accident in his teens resulted in permanent maiming and could have ended it right there.  But, it didn’t!  Read in his own words the inspiring story of how Doc became a beloved and well-known orthopedic surgeon. With supplemental material from his daughter, Dorothy Robbins Talavera, the book chronicles Doc’s life, the growth of his profession, and developments in medical practice and hospitals during his lifetime.  This book is a must-read for anyone who has faced physical, emotional or organization obstacles to achieving their goals.

Davidson, NC – Beverly Clare Rosengren (Kissling), formerly of Jacksonville, FL, passed away peacefully from Alzheimer’s disease on March 9, 2021 in Davidson, North Carolina. She had lifelong love of ice cream, reading and shopping, with a laugh that brought joy to many.  Beverly was raised in Jacksonville, FL, daughter of the prominent Riverside Presbyterian Church minister, Albert Kissling and his wife Viola. She graduated from College of Wooster and obtained a masters in social work from Denver University.  Beverly was employed by the Westwood Board of Education as a school social worker for many years and served one term as president of the Bergen Country Association of School Social Workers.  Beverly was a member and very active at the First Presbyterian Church of Ridgewood. Through the church she became involved in Paterson Habitat for Humanity and was named their Volunteer of the Year in 2006 for her tireless work in the chapter’s office.  Beverly will be greatly missed by her sons and wives, Eric &Teruni (MA), Karl & Sarah (Rochester, NY) and Paul & Betsy (Glen Rock, NJ), the Lyles family (Davidson), her grandchildren, Marina, Emily, Michael, Casey, Danica, Julia and Mandy and great grandchild, Hadrian. She will also be missed by brother Albert and sisters, Charlotte and Dolly (Bachman).  She was predeceased by her husband, John H. Rosengren, special companion, Reverend John Lyles, sister Doris and brother Bruce.  In lieu of flowers, please consider making a contribution to Paterson Habitat for Humanity or the charity of your choice.  There will be a virtual celebration of Beverly’s life will be held March 28, 2021 at 2:00PM. Raymer-Kepner Funeral Home is serving the family. For virtual service information, the full obituary, and to leave online condolences please visit www.KepnerFH.com.  To Plant Memorial Trees in memory, please visit our Sympathy Store.  Published in The Ridgewood News from Mar. 12 to Mar. 19, 2021.

Thomas R. Justice, age 86, of Damariscotta, Maine passed away peacefully of natural causes on October 15, 2021, with family by his side at Durgin Pines nursing home in Kittery, Maine.

“I love my life, my friends and family” he was known to say and certainly lived that way.  Born in 1935 in Niagara Falls, NY to parents Arlene and Thomas Justice, Tom and sister Nan grew up in a lively neighborhood, embraced by grandparents, cousins, aunts, uncles, and friends.  He was an avid athlete, co-captained high school basketball and football teams, was named All American and enjoyed making “moves that would dazzle you.” An eager and enthusiastic learner, he became the president of the Niagara Falls High School honor society, attended Princeton University, received his BA from the College of Wooster, attended Augustana Theological Seminary, and ultimately earned his MA from Boston University in English Literature.

After marrying his college sweetheart, Marilyn Brown, they moved to Wolfeboro, NH to raise three children: David, Ann, and Jane. There he taught high school English, coached basketball and football until his career took them to the land of his forefathers, England.   In England their fourth child, Ian, was born as Tom worked for EDC (Education Development Center), studying the British open classroom educational system.  Returning to the States, he completed his career in Waltham MA with a fourteen year stint teaching elementary school. At that time, his second wife Carol Justice took him to the tranquil setting of Dunstable, MA; a stepping stone to relocating to the region of dreamy coastal Lincoln County, ME.  Those who knew him best remember his wild side that cooked up quirky ideas, like riding a toboggan down a hillside while sitting in a rocking chair. They also remember his sensitive, innocent side that marveled at the migration of monarch butterflies or stood in awe of the canopy of brilliant stars bedecked in the night sky.

Tom was a nature enthusiast at heart, stayed fit by leading an active lifestyle, owned a landscaping company, played pick-up basketball, and ran the Boston Marathon.  He was inducted into both the Niagara Falls High School and The College of Wooster Athletic Halls of Fame. He enjoyed sailing on Lake Champlain with friends, canoeing in the Allagash region with family, and hiking any mountain with a view.  His favorite pastime was fly-fishing with his sons in the Maine woods and hearing loons call or the white throated sparrow’s clear song ringing out on a still day. He loved classical and folk music, often playing guitar and singing with friends.  After retiring and relocating to Nobleboro, ME, he sang with the Hearts Forever Young community and with the Damariscotta UU church choir.

He was especially known for his charisma, lively discussions and love of conversation, taking time to share a drink at the pub, meet friends for coffee or savor lunch at the Inn Along the Way.  He enjoyed companionship and had a knack for keeping life-long friends, such as Conrad Putzig, Bob Reber, Charlie Doherty, and Kay Demmon.  His adventuresome but thrifty spirit led him on a journey to Normandy France in his early seventies, where he stayed in youth hostels and delved into historic sites.  He always felt lucky in life and liked helping others, be it delivering a meal, laughing heartily together, donating to charities, or driving –at age 82– the elderly to appointments.  After fifty years, he reunited with college classmate Alice (Kris) Cunningham on the dance floor and spent the next ten years dividing winters and summers between Austin, TX and Maine.  The bond that unfolded between Tom and Kris was like a fairy tale, an epic love-story, bringing out the best in both. Up until the age of 84, he still had spunk to play pick-up basketball with his buddies at the Damariscotta YMCA, but the lure of dancing would get him up and out of bed in his final days.

Tom is survived by his four children: David Justice of Durham, NH; Ann Justice, her husband Paul Graham, of Saint Louis, MO; Jane Justice, her husband Ian Owens, of Essex, MA; and Ian Justice, his wife Dinora, of Newton, MA; two grandchildren: Johnny Owens and Arvo Justice.

A memorial service will be held in March 2022 at the Inn Along the Way, Damariscotta.  In lieu of flowers, please feel free to make a contribution to the Inn Along the Way: P.O. Box 113 Damariscotta, Maine 04543 www.innalongtheway.org Phone: (207) 751-6261. Visit www.lucaseatonfuneralhome.com for online condolences.

Bradley A. Stoddard passed away on June 16, 2021 at the age of 83. Brad is predeceased by his wife, Natalie Bunker Stoddard. He is survived by his three children, Michael B. Stoddard and wife Julie Stoddard, Scott P. Stoddard and wife Rosemarie Patronette, and Elizabeth E. Turney, as well as his two sisters, Susan Berg with husband Gordon Berg, and Rosemary Kowalski. He is survived by 7 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren. Bradley is also survived by several loving friends, including Susan Caster.  Bradley had a life-long love of theater, and after earning a degree in Theater Arts, he went on to act and direct in summer stock, regional theater, and off-off Broadway in New York City. In 1972 he won the McCormick-Goodhart Trophy for Best Actor in a Leading Role, for his performance that year in “The Best Man.”  Bradley also loved to travel and was a world traveler, often with his wife, Natalie.  The family will hold a private memorial service. If so moved, the family requests donations be made to the Community Home Health and Hospice Center, 3102 NE 134th Street, Vancouver, WA 98686.

Published on June 29, 2021

Jill Currie Reeves, class of 1984 and parent of Gordon Reeves, a senior at Wooster, and Susannah (Brown) Schiller, also class of 1984, recently downsized and moved to a 55 and over community in Urbana, Maryland. It wasn’t until after Jill and Susannah attended a few book club meetings that they  realized not only had they both gone to the College of Wooster, they lived in Douglass Hall the same year and graduated in 1984! Now they are “neighbors again,” having fun doing activities  together in the area! Susannah’s husband, Scott Schiller,  class of 1982, also joins in for pickleball.

Obituary

William L. Morris, 92 

Birmingham, AL – William L. Morris, 92, formerly of Poland, OH, passed away on Friday evening, October 15, 2021, at his home in Birmingham, AL.

William, known by his family as “Bill,” was born February 22, 1929 in Langeloth, PA, the son of the late William and Frances (Roper) Morris.

He attended The College of Wooster in OH, graduated from Grove City College in PA, and later from the University of Pittsburgh with a Master’s in Business Administration. 

Bill served in the U.S. Coast Guard during the Korean Conflict. 

He retired as Vice President of Industrial Relations for Universal Rundle, New Castle, PA, enjoying a 30-year career as a human relations professional.

Bill was a member of SCORE, a volunteer CASA advocate, a lifelong fan of the Pittsburgh Steelers and Ohio State football teams, and enjoyed playing weekly penny poker with his buddies from his retirement community. 

He was a devoted husband to his wife, Elva, for 45 years and a loving father who faithfully provided for his family. He delighted in his children and grandchildren and their accomplishments.  He showed great interest in each one and was always ready with a word of encouragement or advice when needed. He freely dispensed business counsel that had a profound effect on many and positively shaped careers, including those of his children and grandchildren. 

Outgoing and friendly, Bill never passed someone without a warm hello and was kind to everyone. He regularly expressed gratitude for all he had, crediting the good Lord for his blessings, and others always knew that he appreciated them. 

He will be dearly missed by his children, Susan (Newt) Crenshaw of Colorado Springs, CO, Linda (Marc) Miles of Birmingham, AL, and Hank (Sara) Morris of Poland, OH; eleven grandchildren, Drew (Mindy) Crenshaw, Zach (Elizabeth) Crenshaw, Luke Crenshaw, Jensen Crenshaw, Katie (Chris) Osterlund, Emily (Stephen) Chestnut, Abbey Miles, Bennett Miles, Cole Morris, Hope Morris, and Grace Morris; three great-grandchildren; in addition to many friends, his physicians, and the staff at Danberry Retirement Home in AL, where he lived for 13 years. 

Besides his parents, Bill was preceded in death by his wife of 45 years, the former Elva L. Morris, who died on April 27, 2006. 

Family and friends may call on Friday, October 29, 2021 from 10:00 to 10:45 a.m. at Cunningham-Becker Funeral Home, 270 N. Main Street in Poland. There will be a funeral service celebrating Bill’s life at 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home with his son-in-law, Newt Crenshaw, officiating. Interment will follow in the Poland Riverside Cemetery, Poland with full military honors with the U.S. Coast Guard and the Ellsworth V.F.W.
The family requests that material tributes can take the form of contributions to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105 in memory of Bill.  

Condolences for Bill’s family may be sent to www.beckerobits.com.

To send flowers to William’s family, please visit our floral store.

VISITATION
Friday
October 29, 2021
10:00 AM to 10:45 AM
Cunningham-Becker Funeral Home Poland
270 N. Main Street
Poland, OH 44514

https://www.beckerfuneralhomes.com/obituary/William-Morris

Thomas “Tom” John Henderson, 69, of Washington DC, was welcomed into heaven on Sunday, October 3, 2021. He was born on June 2, 1952, in Greentree, PA (a suburb of Pittsburgh) to the Rev. J. Hubert Henderson and Eleanor (Allen) Henderson. After graduating from Keystone Oaks High School, he attended the College of Wooster, earning a Bachelor of Arts before attending law school at the University of Pittsburgh. While in law school, he witnessed an abuse of power by a police officer during a protest and was arrested after asking for the officer’s badge number. The charges were subsequently dropped when the officer didn’t show up at trial. From that impactful moment on, Tom continued to be a life-long champion of civil rights, equality, and justice for all. After earning his Juris Doctor in 1977, he was hired by Neighborhood Legal Services of Pittsburgh, where he worked for six years providing assistance to those facing and fighting housing discrimination. He next founded the Law Offices of Thomas J. Henderson in 1983 to continue pursuing his commitment to civil rights, justice, and equality, during which time he also taught as an Adjunct Professor of Law at the University of Pittsburgh School of Law. In 1990, Tom became Chief Counsel for the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law in Washington, DC. While at the Lawyers’ Committee, he litigated numerous cases on education, environmental justice, voting rights, employment, and housing discrimination. He argued before the U.S. Supreme Court and wrote more than 50 briefs for the Court in other cases. He also argued cases before state level supreme courts and before the federal level appellate courts. Tom testified before House and Senate committees of the U.S. Congress on matters of federal housing policy, briefed members of Congress on public policy and supporting legislation, and even advised White House staff on policy positions. In 2008, Tom rekindled his private practice, rebranded as the Henderson Law Firm, while concurrently serving as Senior Litigation Counsel for the Sanford Heisler Law Firm in Washington, DC. Here he once again worked tirelessly and fearlessly on civil rights, consumer, and employment-discrimination cases. After many years as part of the civil rights community, he naturally found himself in mentorship positions to others. Graciously offering advice, wisdom, and assistance, many of his friends and colleagues fondly remember Tom for how generous he always was with his time and expertise. In short, Tom was an attorney par excellence, with an encyclopedic knowledge of the law and its nuances. He lived as he worked, carrying a strong moral vision, true integrity, and a passion for justice. He accomplished much in his life but was never one to grandstand – always humble, authentic, and compassionate. Tom’s dynamic career in the law was balanced by his interests in the arts and farming. He enjoyed the museums and theaters near Washington, DC, just as he did the fields of West Virginia and Ohio. He supported budding artists, playwrights, and actors as their careers developed, in addition to spending time with fellow farmers in the fields bailing hay and tending to cattle. He enjoyed creating artwork himself, finding peace and relaxation through watercolors and sketching, with ambition to one day meld works of iron. Tom, above all, loved his family. He came from a strong, close-knit family and made it a priority to be with them as much as possible. He was naturally the central figure in family gatherings, with a unique ability to make everyone laugh at themselves through his legendary, sharp wit – sharp in that it was smart and wise with a playful bite. At the center of his life were his children: Randy, Teisha and Bryce-Edward. He loved being with them, treasured the deep conversations they had, and rarely passed up an opportunity to challenge them to become better versions of themselves. Tom also cherished spending time and talking with his siblings and their spouses, Robert (Susan), Marjorie (Edward), and Richard (Sheila), always showing genuine concern for what was happening in their lives.

Tom is survived by his aforementioned children, Randall Henderson of Washington, DC, Teisha Weatherly of Los Angeles, CA, Bryce-Edward Weatherly of Seattle, WA; his brothers and sister, Robert Henderson of Wadsworth, OH, Marjorie Johnston of Mount Lebanon, PA, Richard Henderson of South Lyon, MI; his nieces and nephews, Robert (Kathy) Henderson, James (Beth) Henderson, Jennifer (Philip) Sabes, Jonathan (Darlene) Henderson, Amy (Matthew) Keller and James Johnston; along with great-nephews and nieces. He was preceded in death by his parents, J. Hubert and Eleanor Henderson, and his former wife, Shirley Ann Henderson. The family will be holding a private memorial service next summer in Ohio. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to The Poverty & Race Research Action Council (PRRAC) in Tom’s honor. PRRAC is a civil rights law and policy organization based in Washington, DC. An organization that embodies the work that Tom dedicated his life to.

Thomas John Henderson Online Memorial: https://www.forevermissed.com/thomas-john-henderson/about

Published on October 27, 2021

John A. Townsend, 83, formerly of Washington and Meadow Lands, Pennsylvania, died Friday, October 15, 2021, after suffering a fall and brain hemorrhage in Phoenix, Arizona. He was born July 27, 1938, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, one of three sons of Albert McMillan Townsend and Margaret Miller Townsend.

Townsend was a 1956 graduate of Marietta High School, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1960 from the College of Wooster where he was President of his Senior Class. He earned a Masters degree in Business from Stanford University’s Graduate School of Business and started at the University of Virginia for his Juris Doctorate. However, he wanted to train horses so he transferred to the University of Pittsburgh where he graduated in 1965. Townsend was a long-time lawyer in Washington County in the firm McIlvaine, Allison &Townsend and a former Assistant District Attorney under Harold Fergus before becoming President and General Manager of The Meadows Race Track.

He retired from The Meadows to focus on raising, breeding and racing Standardbred harness horses on Rising Wind Farm in Meadow Lands and Bancroft Farm in Avella. During this time, he bred or campaigned several outstanding pacers, trotters and champions including Esquire Spur, Roydon Lad, Angela Ty, Land Fire, and Stubby B. Townsend was a voracious reader, typically consuming three or four books per week and generously sharing his notes and copies of books with friends. He was active in supporting Meadowcroft Village which was founded by his uncles, Hall of Fame Horseman Delvin G. Miller of Meadow Lands and Albert Miller of Avella. When a resident of Washington, he could often be found at Jake’s Newsstand, picking up dinner at Pizza with a German Twist, or working out and regaling others with stories of great Americans and novels at the Cameron Wellness Center. He was a lifelong Democrat and active in Robert Kennedy’s and Barack Obama’s campaigns for U.S. President, as well as his son Bill’s 1992 Republican campaign for U.S. Congress in Pennsylvania’s 20th District.

Townsend was a great supporter of the EB White Society of Avella. He met John Mattox who was the Owner and Director of the Underground Railroad Museum in Flushing, Ohio and was instrumental in writing to the President of Ohio University in order to get an Honorary Degree for Dr. John Mattox for his lifelong work in preserving the Underground Railroad in Ohio. He was previously married to Miss America 1963, Jacquelyn Mayer Townsend. They have two children,

Bill Townsend (Katrina) of Las Vegas, Nevada, and Kelly Townsend Cook (Kenneth) of Ozark, Missouri, and five grandchildren, Colton Townsend, Pierce Townsend, Daryn Rostic, Alayna Rostic, and Samuel Rostic. He is survived by a brother, Alden Townsend (Ann). A younger brother, Timothy Townsend (Janice), is previously deceased. A memorial service is planned for spring 2022.

Sally Carol (McComas) Mueller (x’55) sloughed off the earthly bonds of pain and infirmity that had held her so cruelly for these last several years and slipped into the realm of the stars at 11:10 pm on October 16, 2021 at The Arbors of Fairlawn. As much as she wanted to have died at home surrounded by her family, in the end, it was just not possible. After two excruciating weeks that no pain medication could touch, she was finally granted an hour of ease before slipping away with her hospice nurse and an aide at her side.

She would tell you that we should not be sad for her – that she has had a wonderful life and been so very lucky – she has loved and been loved – she has wonderful children and grandchildren of whom she is so very proud – she has enjoyed the benefits of education and travel, a mother who was an amazing role model, a big brother who looked out for her, and a father who loved her.

Sally was born to James R. McComas and Evelyn (nee Swan) McComas (later Gilbert) on her Grandfather Swan’s farm just west of Apple Creek, Ohio on May 16, 1933. Her two older brothers, Harrold (“Mac”) and Stan, were at the circus with an aunt when she burst on the scene. All have predeceased her.

The family of five lived on the multi-generational farm during the height of The Depression until big brother, Mac, was ready to attend high school at which time they moved into Apple Creek proper. When Mac was ready to attend Wooster College they moved into Wooster.  Sally was nine years Mac’s junior, so her formative years were spent attending Wooster’s Bowman Street School and Wooster High School, graduating in 1951. She then began at The College of Wooster as a theater major. In her spare time, she majored in playing bridge with her girlfriends (aka “The Amazons”) at The Shack.

While in high school, Sally met and fell head over heels for a very handsome guy with a devilish grin, John N. Mueller of Burbank, Ohio. They were engaged in 1953 and Sally left college to work to earn money for “their future”. The couple married on June 13, 1954. As A1C Mueller was stationed at Fort Belvoir near Washington DC, they made their first home together in a studio apartment in Arlington, VA. After the USAF, they returned to Ohio, moving to Akron, so John could use his GI Bill to attend the Akron Art Institute in pursuit of a BFA. Two children then followed five years apart, Susan and Jay, thus making Sally’s life complete as “all she ever wanted to be was a wife and mother.”

In truth, Sally was a stay-at-home-Mom who rarely stayed home. You would find her at her kids’ school selling Savings Bond Stamps, acting as room mother, volunteering as a Girl Scout Leader, serving as PTA President, attending every concert or play or sporting event her kids were involved in. She was a Band Booster, a car-pool driver, a chaperone. Her kids’ friends mattered to her and they became “her kids,” too.

Sally proudly also served both her church and her community. As a lifelong Methodist, she had the family join Christ Methodist Church in 1958 and she took her vows very seriously: “to support it with her prayers, her presence, her gifts, and her service.” Through her 53 years of membership, she was involved in Child Study Club and the Home Builders Class (later called The Builders Class) where she met many dear and lifelong friends. She took her turn teaching Sunday School (both children and adults), helped with Vacation Bible School, and served on many committees including Staff-Parish Relations. As much as she served the church and demanded weekly family attendance, she also willingly and openly struggled with her faith; unsure about God and Jesus, she did believe strongly that her life was touched by Grace.

As a lifelong Democrat, she worked hard campaigning for the candidates of her choice, helping with voter registration, and taking her turn as a poll worker on Election Day. She was happy to drive folks to the polls and made innumerable get-out-the-vote phone calls. She was particularly proud of the work she did with a community organization called West Side Neighbors that helped break red-lining in housing in the Akron area. All of her life she championed rights of workers, women, persons of color, and the LGBTQ+ community. She believed in being an educated and active citizen and tried to instill those values in family, friends, and sometimes perfect strangers.  In her retirement she volunteered to read weekly for the blind on radio station WEYE and to help staff the information desk in the Summit Metro Parks F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm.

Sally was a huge supporter of both the performing and visual arts. She did not consider herself “artistic”; she’d say, “My husband is the artist!” Instead, she called herself “the world’s best appreciator.” And she was. She believed in buying local, original art and supporting local theater. She loved jazz, and modern art, and all kinds of music, even discovering late in life that she really enjoyed opera performances in the “The Met: Live!” series shown in theaters. She believed in showing up to support art, and artists, and took great delight in being invited to “hang” with her kids in places where new music was being made.

Sally considered herself a “lifelong learner” – “it is a good day if you learn something new!” – she would say, but most of us knew her as a teacher. After Jay was in school full time, she went back to college at Akron U and finished her Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education, graduating Cum Laude in spite of the D’s in Latin she had to drag behind her from her Wooster College days. Later, she also earned a Masters’ degree in Education.  From January, 1972 until her retirement 28 years later, she taught in the Springfield Twp. Local Schools, first at Milroy and then at Schrop. Her subjects were 5^th and 6^th grade mathematics and literature/reading. An early adopter of technology, she introduced the first computer to her classroom in 1982 followed by an Apple IIc in 1985.  She dearly loved her team of teaching cohorts and served for a time on the contract negotiating team for her union with whom she had a great deal of fun.

After husband John, her deepest love, died in 1980, Sally reinvented herself as a completely independent woman; she joined a singles bridge club in Kent and The Museum Contemporaries of the Akron Art Museum, she made new friends, she traveled (travel is educational, you know) and, in retirement, helped found a Book Club at her church that continues to this day. She is remembered by many for her iconic “Sally Red” glasses that matched her lipstick, her done nails, and her red cane. If you ever frequented The Amber Pub or early Ken Stewart’s, you probably knew her – it was her Thursday routine.

At the age of 88 many have preceded her in death: her beloved John, her parents, her brother Harrold and his wife (sister of the heart) Hazelyn (Melconian) McComas (both ’48), brother Stanley McComas (’50), her dear daughter-in-law, Jennifer Chin, and many friends and family too numerous to name.

Family was everything to her and, much to her delight, Sally became a grandmother seven times over. Left to celebrate her amazing courage, strength, patience, positivity, and love for life are her children: Jay & Julia (Herdina) Mueller and Susan (Mueller ’77) & Arthur Baranoff & Jane Hull; her grandchildren, Sarah Baranoff-Chin (’03), Stefan & Lori Baranoff, John J. Mueller, Mary Mueller (Grant Wilkie), Margaret (Mueller) & Adam Reed, Mark Mueller, and Emmaline Mueller.

She will be remembered fondly by her Swan Cousins, her niece, three nephews, several great-nieces and great-nephews, her partner in travel and trouble, Marian Steinert, and many, many friends, colleagues, and classmates. She also leaves three half-sisters by her father’s second marriage, Charlotte Rollie, Barbara Greathoue and Nancy Jobe.

Her last days were not easy, but they were made more bearable by the devoted care of her daily helpers Melissa and Tera to whom the family is ever grateful, her evening “rotation” of Nikki, Marquita, Nola, and Sa’Maiya, her hospice staff led by Kathie, and her hospice nurse, Christine, who was with her at the end.

When asked how she wanted to be remembered, she offered us this:

“I would rather be ashes than dust!

I would rather that my spark should burn out in a brilliant blaze

than it should be stifled by dry-rot.

I would rather be a superb meteor, every atom of me in magnificent glow,

than a sleepy and permanent planet.

The function of man is to live, not to exist…”   ~ Jack London

Remember Sally by wearing red in her honor. In lieu of flowers, contributions to UMCOR, The Akron Art Museum, your local NPR station, or The Children & Teachers Foundation of the Chicago Teachers Union are humbly requested.

There are multiple stars in your crown, Sally. Well done, good and faithful servant. From dust you have come and to dust you shall return. May your name be written in the stars and your dust become stardust.   §

Service information:
Cremation has already taken place. A Memorial Gathering will take place on Saturday, Nov 27, 2021 at 12:00 pm (noon) at Jilly’s Music Room, 111 N. Main Street, Akron, OH. The venue requires proof of Covid-19 vaccination OR a negative test within the last 72 hours in order to be admitted. They will be checking at the door.  The family is requiring masks be worn. The service will also be live-streamed on both Zoom. Link information in the online obituary at:
https://www.billowfuneralhomes.com/obituary/Sally-McComasMueller

Patricia Ann Lengel Venable, 91, passed away Sunday November 14th after a long struggle with Alzheimer’s disease. She was born in Elyria, Ohio. She went on to receive her undergraduate degree from the College of Wooster (1952) and later her Master’s degree (1954) and PhD (1963) from Ohio State University. She had a passion for teaching and went on to be both a college professor and high school Biology teacher. She taught at Rider College, Trenton State College, The Lawrenceville School and Princeton Day School. She was an active member of The Presbyterian Church of Lawrenceville for over 50 years. She spent many summers in Jamestown, Rhode Island and could be found most days showing her grandchildren how to pick clams or catch lobsters or volunteering to give shoreline nature walks to kids and adults. Pre-deceased by her husband, Baxter Venable, parents Manhatten and Marcelyn Lengel, sister-in-law Joan Venable and brother-in-law Richard Cooper. She is survived by; A son and daughter-in-law, Mark and Kristin Venable of Denver Colorado; a daughter and son-in-law, Amy and Brian Ciuffreda of Lawrenceville; a brother and sister-in-law Tom and Carol Sue Lengel of Willoughby Hills Ohio and sister-in-law Catherine Cooper of New Bern North Carolina; Four grandchildren, Adam and Erica Venable and Nicholas and Katie Ciuffreda; three nieces Kate Cooper Metts, Jennifer Cooper, Ginny Barb Lengel and grand nephew Cooper Metts. A memorial service will be held Saturday December 11, 2021 at 2:00 PM at The Presbyterian Church of Lawrenceville. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Memorial Fund of the Presbyterian Church of Lawrenceville 2688 Main Street, Lawrenceville, NJ 08648 www.pclawrenceville.org or Alzheimer’s New Jersey 425 Eagle Rock Ave Ste 203 Roseland, NJ 07068 www.alznj.org Arrangements are by the Wilson-Apple Funeral Home, 2560 Pennington Rd, Pennington NJ. For further information or to send a condolence, please visit www.wilsonapple.com . Wilson-Apple Funeral Home 2560 Pennington Road Pennington, NJ 08534 (609) 737-1498

Published by “The Times, Trenton,” from Nov. 20 to Nov. 21, 2021.

Lois S. Meighan, 84, of Lansdale, died Sunday, November 21, 2021.  She was the beloved wife of Richard M. Meighan, her husband of 59 years.

Born August 19, 1937 in Harrisburg, PA, she was a daughter of the late Philip and Phyllis (Blackburn) Shuler. She grew up and went to school in Hershey, PA.

She earned a BA in Biology from the College of Wooster, and a MAT from Brown University.  She taught at a private girls’ school for two years.  Upon moving to Lansdale, PA she raised her family with much love and interest. In later years she was a chemical technician with a producer of diagnostics.  Later on she taught home-bound students and also gave piano lessons.

She had many interests and talents. She played cello in high school with the Harrisburg, PA symphony.  Later she performed in the Ambler Orchestra and the North Penn Orchestra. She was also a member of a local chamber quartet. Piano and Celtic harp were also in her bag of talents. She also sang with the Norristown Chorale. She actively served at church playing her instruments for worship and teaching Sunday school. She liked to knit and crochet articles for friends and family. She also learned to weave lovely table center pieces.  She was a prodigious reader with always a book at hand.

It is of interest to note, that while being raised as a Presbyterian, her roots go back eight generations into the Mennonite heritage. She first joined Plains Mennonite Church before transferring to the Franconia Mennonite Church.

Lois enjoyed camping in the cabins of various Pennsylvania state parks; Parker Dam being the favorite. She and her husband also liked to travel to and stay in various time-share locations in the Eastern United States, but one time being in Austria.

In addition to her husband, she is survived by her children, Katherine Cope (Tim) of Palmyra, PA, Rachel Meighan-Mantha (Doug) of Petoskey, MI, Rebecca Meighan (Randy) of Alanson, MI, Bruce R. Meighan of Mechanicsville, VA, and Jennifer Latt (Aung) of Quakertown; 14 grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her eldest daughter, Karen Robinson; and sister, Carolyn Minionis.

Relatives and friends may call after 10:00 a.m. December 3, 2021 at Franconia Mennonite Church, 613 Harleysville Pike, Telford, followed by the Memorial Service at 11:00 a.m. Interment will be private.

2021 Revelle Medalist: Wayne Cornelius – YouTube

A world-renowned expert on immigration policy and Mexican studies, Wayne A. Cornelius was the founding director of two internationally respected, interdisciplinary research centers: the Center for U.S.-Mexican Studies and the Center for Comparative Immigration Studies, which helped to put UC San Diego on the global map in both fields. He authored, co-authored or edited over 300 publications and is a frequent contributor to national and international news media. He advised presidential candidates Pete Buttigieg and Joe Biden on immigration issues. Cornelius did field research with his students annually from 1976 through 2015 and served as founding director of UC San Diego’s nationally recognized Mexican Migration Field Research and Training Program. In 2012, Mexican President Felipe Calderón awarded him the Order of the Aztec Eagle, Mexico’s highest decoration for foreign citizens. He also received the Latin American Studies Association’s Kalman Silvert Award for Lifetime Achievement, and the University of California’s systemwide Constantine Panunzio Award for distinguished post-retirement service.

Thanks to my Wooster experience I celebrated 40 years in the Chemical industry(8 years at the PPG Chemical Research Center and 32 years at Lubrizol) and retired at the end of July, 2021.I was fortunate to be nominated and awarded the Lubrizol Founder’s Award for Career Achievement along with 7 other colleagues from around the world this ye ar. It was a great way to end my career at Lubrizol.

Lynda & I have been married for 37 years and have 3 sons. All three are married and spread out from Ohio to Iowa and Colorado. We have two grandsons in Ohio. Our son & daughter-in-law in Iowa will welcome our 3rd grandson in early 2022. Our son in Colorado was married this past July after being forced to postpone the wedding in July, 2021.

Life has been good to me and the Wooster education played an important part in shaping my future.

Greetings!

I am thrilled to share the news that an album I’m a part of, All One Tribe, has been nominated for a GRAMMY(R) for Best Children’s Album! I am a recording artist and a COW Alum (Class of 2000; maiden name Kammer- daughter of professor emeritus, Chuck Kammer) and I am honored to be a part of this collective.

The 25 songs on All One Tribe (by 24 Black artists) celebrate and uplift Black children and families and span musical genres and themes addressing topics of STEM, vaccinations, family, Black history, and the beauty of differences. My song is track number 15 on the album and it features a diverse list of names of children and the different things they enjoy doing on the playground!

The project sets out to expand public awareness of the excitement and excellence of these diverse children’s songwriters, and to remind the world that Black families do not represent a monolith. The 1 Tribe Collective hopes to reprogram society’s perception of Black youth while giving young people and families permission to live out loud and celebrate their uniqueness.  Listening link: ingroov.es/all-one-tribe

Might you be interested in covering this exciting and historic moment?! After last year’s nomination of all white artists (and only one female represented), the family music community demanded transparency from the industry’s most distinguished awards organization. Since then, major shifts in the GRAMMY process have occurred. As a result of our advocacy, the GRAMMYS discontinued the use of Nominations Review Committee, (essentially a secret committee of only a handful of individuals), and instead allowed each voting member’s voice to be heard. This year, all the nominees are artists of color! (Here is some coverage from last year’s controversy for context: NPR | Rolling Stone | Billboard)

Here’s PRESS RELEASE link & also pasted below.

Please let me know if you’re interested in covering this incredible story!

In health and support,

“Nanny Nikki” Rung

Artist, All One Tribe

Sing & Soar With Nanny Nikki!

Grammy Nominated Artist with the One Tribe Collective

Nanny Nikki Music, LLC

• Social Media Manager, Children’s Music Network
• Email: nannynikkimusic@gmail.com
• Phone: (224) 212-0654
• Websitewww.nannynikkimusic.com
• Twitter, YouTube, Facebook & Instagram: @nannynikkimusic

William R. McGraw

William R. McGraw, son of W. Ralph and Lois C. McGraw, died December 9th, 2020.

He was born December 15th, 1930 in Martins Ferry, Ohio and was married to Barbara Ward of Wooster on June 15th, 1953, and together they had five children. Barbara died in 1996, and in 1998 William married Noreen Kelly, J.D. In addition to Noreen, William is survived by the five children: Sarah McGraw Krushinski of Wexford, Pennsylvania; W. Scott McGraw of Delaware, Ohio; Laura McGraw Neill, currently executive director of the Ohio Light Opera, of Wooster; Carrie McGraw Johnson of Little Rock, Arkansas, and Nancy McGraw Gfell of Norwalk, Ohio. There are eleven grandchildren: Emily, Margaret, Katherine, Jonathan, Helen, Nora, William, Abigail, Thomas, Logan, and Cade.

William specialized in dramatic art and speech communication: serving as teacher, advisor, author, artist, and administrator in institutions of higher education. He was active in the American Theatre Association (ATA), serving as its President in 1974, the International Council of Fine Arts Deans, and the College of Fellows of the American Theatre in Washington, D.C. He served the College of Fellows as its Dean (President) from 1985 to 1990.

William graduated with honors from the College of Wooster in 1952 and was awarded the McCreight prize in drama. He earned the M.A. at The Ohio State University (1953) and the Ph.D. at the University of Minnesota (1958). His faculty appointments were at the College of Wooster, the Universities of Oregon and Michigan, and then dual faculty/administrative appointments at Ohio University and West Virginia University, where he was Chair of the Theatre Division. In 1975, he was named the first Dean of the College of Fine and Performing Arts at Youngstown State University, serving for ten years. His final academic position was as Professor of Theatre/Humanities and Dean at Firelands College, Bowling Green State University.

William co-authored Principles and Styles of Acting, wrote numerous articles for a variety of publications, and served as a speaker or panelist on both national and international scenes.

He acted, directed, and designed for University, community and summer theatres while at the University of Michigan, and supervised its graduate directing program.

He was a member and Elder of the Presbyterian Church, U.S.A., as well as the Masonic Lodge (Ebenezer Lodge # 33). Among his avocational interests were reading, music, fishing, travel and the raising of harness horses for cross-country carriage driving. He enjoyed movies, telling stories, and was an ardent college football fan, especially of the OSU Buckeyes. He had a longstanding interest in genealogical research, involving numerous trips to Ireland and Scotland. This passion reflected his first love: family.

Among his many honors, William received six Citations for Excellence from ATA, was named an outstanding Ph.D. graduate of the University of Minnesota and in 1993, was given the College of Wooster’s Distinguished Alumni Award.

A private family memorial service will be held at First Presbyterian Church in Wooster.

In lieu of flowers, gifts may be made payable to Danbury Senior Living and sent to: Danbury Senior Living, 939 Portage Road, Wooster, Ohio 44691. Alternatively, contributions in William’s name can be made to a charity of your choice.

McIntire, Bradham & Sleek Funeral Home, 216 E. Larwill St., Wooster is assisting the family.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.mcintirebradhamsleek.com.

Posted online on December 13, 2020. Published in The Daily Record.

For all of us who knew him, the news that John L. Ferry, (‘64) died on Oct. 29, 2021 in Parkersburg, WV of heart failure represented the loss of a most loyal Wooster alum and a very special person.

On campus, his spirited approach toward everything went beyond his leadership and skills on the men’s Tennis team or the way he competed for Third Section in inter-mural sporting events. Some might say that his “full throttle” attitude was the cause of an accidental fall at Kennarden Hall in 1962 that required major cardio surgery and resulted in physical issues that only he could have dealt with so successfully.

After recovering from surgery at the home of his Wooster alumni parents in Parkersburg, John completed his degree requirements and took a job in advertising with a local firm in Parkersburg.   He married “W” Association Hall of Fame member, Vicki Siegel (‘65) not long after her graduation and they began their life together and professional careers in Parkersburg.

As fate would have it, I took a job in Parkersburg in 1967 and re-kindled my friendship with John and it was only then began to really appreciate what a special person he was.  John seemed to spend every waking hour organizing social events, games of every type, weekend golf, “road trips” to major sporting events, poker and bridge sessions, playing tennis and even attending Wooster team events at colleges within driving distance.  Through it all, John became an account executive at Fahlgren and Assoc. and played key role in the firm’s growth with major corporate clients throughout the mid-west.

Over the years, our friendship had ebbs and flows in large part due to geographic separations and family priorities.  But, it was always easy to reconnect in spite of John’s refusal to text or email. Friends of John never tired of his phone calls at all hours related to trivia, sports talk, updates on mutual friends and Wooster alums.  As special as that connection made all of us feel individually, it became apparent it was the same for any of us lucky enough to be his friend.  Even in recent years, John would orchestrate a gathering of Wooster alums at the home of Barry Terjesen (’64) in Venice, FL every Spring to the delight of all.

John is survived by his wife of 56 years, Vicki, as well as their son, Chris and his family along with his brother, Peter and his family.

Obituary of Barbara Joan Keck

SILVER LAKE – Barbara Joan Keck, 95, born in Akron, Ohio and a long-time resident of Silver Lake, passed away on June 16, 2021. The daughter of Worth and Frances Bailey, Joan was a graduate of Buchtel High School and the College of Wooster. In 1949 she married Max Keck and settled in Silver Lake to raise their daughters, Allison and Cindy. She enjoyed a twenty-year career as a psychiatric social worker at Fallsview and Cuyahoga Valley Mental Health Centers. Joan loved tennis, classical music, playing bridge, and rescuing animals. She was a caring and loyal friend and had many lifelong friendships. She and Max enjoyed trips to Japan and Germany and countless family beach vacations in Florida and the Caribbean. They loved walking in the parks and going to Blossom to hear the Cleveland Orchestra. Joan was a loving and playful grandmother to her four grandchildren. She will be remembered forever for her kindness, cheerfulness, and generosity. In the decade since Max’s passing, Joan has bravely suffered with severe pain and limited mobility. We are very grateful to her wonderful neighbors and friends who have been so kind and helpful. Thanks also to Summa Palliative Care Unit, Summa Hospice, and Heritage of Hudson. Joan is survived by daughters, Allison Keck and Cindy Schultz; grandchildren, Michael Marignoni (fiancee Chelsea Babbert), Matthew (Natalie) Marignoni, Ryan and Lindsey Schultz; great-grandchildren, Mason and Madison Marignoni, and friend, Al Marignoni. According to her wishes, there will be no services. If so desired, memorial contributions could be made to One of a Kind Pet Rescue, 1929 W. Market Street, Akron, OH 44313 or the Silver Lake Garden Club, 3108 E. Edgerton Road, Silver Lake, OH 44224.

In 2020-2021 Wayne Cornelius received three career awards: the Latin American Studies Association’s Kalman Silvert Award for Lifetime Achievement in the interdisciplinary field of Latin American studies; the University of California’s university-wide Constantine Panunzio Award for distinguished post-retirement teaching, research, and public service; and UC San Diego’s Revelle Medal, the campus’ top award, named for the world-renowned climate scientist Roger Revelle, who led the effort to create UCSD in the 1960s. The award recognizes institution-building by UCSD faculty. A video of the Revelle presentation can be viewed here . Cornelius notes that these awards are a function of longevity — they have to be accepted in person, no posthumous awards — and is grateful to have hung around long enough to receive them.

I was once a class secretary, gathering information about my classmates, then submitting my findings to the Wooster magazine.  Now the class notes are submitted in a different way – online! Class members are to write their own notes for inclusion on the website.  If I wanted to see if any members of the class of 1953 submitted any information, I can review all of  the entries online.

I recently learned about a serious medical challenge I face.  I am in urgent need of a kidney transplant.  I must find people who are willing to help me by being tested to see if they are a kidney match (or the equivalent of a kidney match, through participation in a kidney exchange program).

Would you kindly share my story with as many people as possible, whether while talking with someone, in a Facebook post, by email, or in any other way?  Perhaps the recipient of your message will do the same.  I hope the ripple effect will bring my story to people who are able to help restore me to health.

Please know that the time you took to read this message is a gift in and of itself.  Thank you so much.  Please feel free to email me at akidneyforlaureldowd@yahoo.com

Obituary – David J. Slobodien
The College of Wooster – Class of 1974

David J. Slobodien of Naples, FL, passed away unexpectedly on May 12, 2021.

Mr. Slobodien was raised with brothers Donald, Daniel, and Douglas in Metuchen, NJ, by the late Sally D. and Howard D. Slobodien.

Mr. Slobodien married Bonnie MacMillin (Class of 1974) immediately after graduating from The College of Wooster. After earning JD and MBA degrees in 1977 from Washington University in St. Louis, Mr. Slobodien enjoyed a long career as legal counsel with Dun & Bradstreet. Dave retired in 2007.

Mr. Slobodien served on the Board of Directors of First Presbyterian Church of Metuchen and was a member of the Annapolis (MD) Yacht Club, Black Tie Club (Washington, DC), and Bethesda Country Club. He was active on the Windstar on Naples Bay Country Club Board of Directors for eight years and served as president of the Windstar Club Charitable Foundation for five years. He had been recently elected to the Board of Directors of Opera Naples.

Mr. Slobodien is survived by his life partner, Bonnie; three children, Anne, Mark, and Phil, and their spouses; five grandchildren; three brothers; one niece and five nephews.

Wanda Watkins McDowell, 71, of 422 Freeze Road, Danville, VA, passed away on Sunday, December 6, 2020 at SOVAH Health, Danville, VA. She was born May 2, 1949 in Danville, VA, the daughter of the late Waverly E. Watkins, Sr. and the late Virginia Finley Watkins. She was married to the late George McDowell. She was an Educator in the Danville Public School system for many years prior to her retirement and was a faithful member of the Holbrook Street Presbyterian Church.

https://www.fisherandwatkinsfuneralhome.com/obituary/wanda-mcdowe

Margery Thayer Baur

Margery Thayer MacArdle Baur, 92, died on January 8, 2022 in Santa Rosa, CA after a prolonged battle with dementia.

Margery was born in Wakefield, Massachusetts on April 17, 1929 to Donald Wales and Ruth Willey MacArdle. She grew up in New Rochelle, NY and graduated from Isaac E. Young High School in 1947. She received a Bachelor of Arts in French from the College of Wooster in Wooster, Ohio in 1951 and earned a teaching credential from Sonoma State College in 1969.

Upon graduation, Margery worked in New York as a reservation agent for United Airlines and later transferred to San Francisco. After receiving her teaching credential, she worked as an elementary school teacher in Petaluma, CA, where she lived most of her adult life. She taught fifth grade and kindergarten at McNear School and was instrumental in establishing and teaching a “two phase” kindergarten program at Valley Vista School for the remainder of her teaching career.

Margery was also a significant contributor to her community. She was a dedicated member of the First Presbyterian Church in Petaluma, where she was choir director and held many other leadership positions. She was also very involved in the Petaluma chapter of AAUW for many years. She loved to sing and was a longstanding member of several local choral groups. She also loved her books and in her retirement volunteered at the Petaluma Public Library. She later joined the congregation at Church of the Roses in Santa Rosa, where she sang in the choir and was a leader in the church’s program to provide free breakfasts for high school students in need.

Margery loved to travel, an interest that was nurtured by her early career at United. She traveled all over the world and extensively throughout the United States. An avid trivia buff, Margery was a contestant and winner on Jeopardy! in 1966. She was an accomplished knitter, a skill that she learned when she was just four years old, and made countless blankets, sweaters and Christmas stockings for friends and relatives. Margery was a loving mother, a devoted sister and she absolutely adored her grandchildren. She was a dedicated daughter and cared for her mother in her mother’s last years of life at Valley Orchards in Petaluma.

Margery is survived by her sister Carolyn Fredley (Theodore) of Florence, KY; her longtime partner, Gerry Wagner of Buffalo, NY; her children and their spouses/partners, Corey Benjamin (Timothy) of Petaluma, CA, Pete (Lee) of Corbett, OR, Andrew (Lisa Rotteveel) of Dixon, CA and Alison (Timothy Boucher) of Palm Springs, CA; and eight grandchildren, David Benjamin, Elizabeth Benjamin, Erich Baur, Natalie Baur, Gretel Baur, Gustav Baur, Madeleine Boucher and Gehrig Baur.

Margery’s family would like to thank the staff at Redwood Retreat and Memorial Hospice of Santa Rosa for their outstanding, loving care of Margery during her final illness.

Due to Covid, no services are currently planned. Donations in Margery’s memory may be made to Memorial Hospice of Santa Rosa, Church of the Roses or First Presbyterian Church, Petaluma.

Jamin Aaron Suber

I moved to Kendal at Ithaca, a continuing care community last summer.  My kids were worried about what would become of me when I ran out of money or got sick, so they put up the entrance fee.  I have an independent “cottage”, which is set up like a row of motel units, with front and back entrances. I’m about a quarter mile from the main building where I go for meals and mail. I was pretty dependent upon a rollator when I came here. During the first year of COVID I just sat in my recliner and forgot how to walk.  But I had 3 months of physical therapy here and am happy to be back on my feet. When the weather’s okay I can walk a mile and a half to the Ithaca Mall where there’s a Target and a good Mexican restaurant.

I moved to Ithaca NY in 2019 when my daughter and son-in-law retired here.  Brad had graduated from the Cornell School of Veterinary Medicine and they still had quite a few friends here.  I always question why people would leave their home towns and go somewhere far away to be near their kids. I guess it makes sense.  I never thought I would leave Cleveland, and I keep in touch.  I subscribed to MLB.com so I could watch all the Indians games. I get a daily Email, The Wake Up, with news from Cleveland and surrounding suburbs.  I know about the new mayor and Frank Jackson’s official portrait. Not happy with the baseball name change but grateful they’re staying in Cleveland.

My sister’s husband, Bill Moats, keeps in touch, but he’s the only classmate that does.  I have a friend Chester Andrews who graduated some time after us.  He has been the announcer for the Scots marching band since 1987. I know him from playing together in the New Horizons Band at Baldwin-Wallace in Berea.

COROLLARY

(W) Adam Rose (A / CA) Robert Ahmad

In a galaxy filled with twin moons, twin suns, and twin planets, everything comes in twos. Even the people. And if your twin dies … so do you. This is the way it’s always been. So, when Captain Andromeda’s twin loses her life in a far-off military battle, and Captain Andromeda herself DOES NOT die, needless to say, the universe demands answers. Answers that the Captain is willing to give … to the highest bidder, of course. This is COROLLARY – a four-issue bombastic sci-fi romp.

In Shops: Apr 20, 2022

Attached is the photo of the Wooster alumni who attended the annual Robert Burns event hosted by Andy Tveekrem at Market Garden Brewery on January 21st.

Best, Audrey Hudak c/o 2011

Jan Carol Colton passed away on October 29, 2021, in Sierra Vista, AZ. Jan had a fall during late summer of 2021. When taken to the hospital by a dear neighbor, she was found to have metastatic lung cancer. Jan had been unaware that she was ill with cancer and that the cancer had spread through her body. Her family and friends are grateful that her suffering did not last more than a few months.

Jan Colton was born in Erie, PA on February 10, 1950. A graduate of the College of Wooster, Jan later earned two doctorate degrees. She reinvented herself throughout her life, living in Pennsylvania, Illinois, South Dakota, Michigan, New Mexico, Germany, Nebraska, Missouri, and finally Arizona. Her career included time as a professor in the department of speech pathology and audiology at the University of Illinois. She then chose to pursue dentistry, developing her own practice. She joined the United States Air Force as an officer in 1996. Jan was a Lieutenant Colonel in the United States Air Force, serving as a medical officer for more than 6 years. She entered the Commissioned Corps of the United States Public Health Service 2003 as a U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Officer and became a Captain. Jan served until 2014, spending much of her time at Pine Ridge, offering her dental services and leadership as a Dental Director. In all phases of her career, Jan focused on building relationships and serving others to the best of her ability and with the highest of integrity.

Most recently, Jan was living on a ranch in Huachuca City, Arizona with her two beloved horses, Nagi and Cash, and two beloved dogs, Finn, and Kai. She spent time volunteering her dental services and working in dentistry in the area. Jan was known as a good neighbor and dear friend. Just two weeks before her illness was discovered, Jan and a local neighbor were working on filling potholes in the roads in their area. Jan was vibrant and strong, curious, and enthusiastic, funny, and caring. She loved her daughter Morgan, spent time in nature, loved animals of all kinds, and enjoyed photography. She was a lifelong scholar, even decided to pursue a Bachelor of Arts in Photography in the last year. Jan has friends all over the United States and the world from her careers and lives lived.

Jan was preceded in death by her parents, Dorothy Isabel and Gordon Dudley Colton, and her brother, Gordon James Colton.

She is survived by her daughter, Morgan Reeder (Adriana Platt); her grandchildren, Maggie and Will; her sister-in-law, Joanne Colton; her nephews, Brian Colton (Joan Colton) and Kyle Colton (Amy Colton); her niece, Lara Colton (Abra Poindexter); her two great-nephews, Thomas Colton (Abigail Colton) and John Colton; and her godson, CoDee Johns.

There will be a celebration of Jan’s life on February 10, 2022, in Pine Ridge, SD. Her remains will be interred at the Black Hills National Cemetery in Sturgis, SD on Friday February 11, 2022, at 2 pm CST.

The family asks that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the American Indian College Fund:

https://collegefund.org/

Barbara B. Glade, 92, died peacefully in her home in Shelburne, VT surrounded by her family on January 21, 2022. She was born in Washington, D.C. on March 27, 1929, the daughter of Francis and Ida Breckenridge.

Barbara was pre-deceased by her wonderful husband, Richard W. Glade ’50, (married February 3, 1951), and her infant son, Ricky. She is survived by her two loving sons, Gregory M. Glade (his wife, Barb Galgon) of Hinesburg, VT and Bradford B. Glade of Bolton, MA. She leaves four grandchildren (Marc, Matthew, Meghan, and Moses) and seven great-grandchildren (Shawn, Christopher, Mason, Ryan, Ian, Carter, and Madelyn).

She attended Wooster College where she met Dick and then transferred to the University of Illinois to be with him. There she earned a bachelor’s degree in English. With Dick, she began a life of exploration. They spent time living in Lebanon, Holland, Greece, and England from where they travelled to many other countries. Together they found the beauty of St. John, USVI where she discovered her enduring passion for snorkeling. This avocation guided her to journey to many regions and islands of the world, lush in their diversity of culture and marine life.

In addition to her globetrotting, Barb was a realtor for many years. She volunteered with AARP, AAUW, the CVU school board, Howard Mental Health, the League of Women Voters, Meals on Wheels, and VPR. Her social groups included Education and Enrichment for Everyone (EEE), Fortnightly, Hot Topics, the UVM Foreign Food Group, and the Women of UVM book group.

A celebration of her beautiful life and spirit will be held later this spring. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to make a contribution in her memory may send it to: UVM Health Network Home Health and Hospice, 1110 Prim Rd., Colchester, VT 05446 (uvmhomehealth.org), earmarked for the Hospice & Palliative Care Program, who helped provide invaluable support to Barbara and her family during her final months. To leave on-line condolences for the family, please visit www.corbinandpalmer.com. Information regarding a service for Barbara will be provided there at a later date.

My soon to be grandson in law, Jacob Hailperin-Lausch has recently published an article in the January Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Journal.  Jacob, a recent graduate of Case Western Reserve School of Law, has joined the Calkins Law Firm as Counsel helping businesses with litigation and transactional work.  He strives to find unique solutions to problems businesses face in every phase of development.  Jacob is passionate about mentoring the next generation of lawyers.  He is a member of CMBA  since 2017, and a Cum Laude graduate of the College of Wooster  2017. Jacob is engaged to my granddaughter Katharine More Everett Class of 2017.

Lynn Leggoe O’Connell writes: Between 2013 and up until shortly before his death, I had the joy of working with Lou Castelli to locate the audio and video of The Beta Affair for restoration. Many classmates of “First Section” (Beta Kappa Phi) will enjoy viewing the restoration of this 1967-1968 film project. In his final days, Lou was aware and pleased that efforts were being made to reach out to Peter Allen, Chris Dirks and Tim Dirks for wider circulation of this collaboration. Lou was also aware that a flash drive was sent to Andrews Library for the College Librarian (Irene Herold) and the Special Collections Librarian (Denise Monbarren) to place this “travel back in history” in an appropriate location in The College of Wooster’s archives. Other classmates who earlier received a flash drive include: Laura Wolfson Likavec, James Lehr Kennedy, and John Sundberg – as well as the son and the daughter of Andy Shupe so Andy’s grandchildren can see their 19-year-old “Grandpa” in wonderfully choreographed karate scenes. An unidentified “mystery woman” has a lengthy part with Jim Kennedy in the final segment of the outtakes (possibly Linda Parrish). Lynn would love to hear from anyone who views the restoration and can confirm the identity of “The Mystery Woman”. Jim Kennedy’s “Mystery Woman”:

COW classmates and good friends reunited at Kelsey Stone (Hardin)’s wedding in Columbus, OH on October 23, 2021. Pictured left to right: Brynn Conroe ’13, Justin Kalinay ’13, Kelsey Stone ’13, Tabby Tesfaye-Abrams ’13, Sarah Doohan ’13, and Dung Nguyen ’14. (Photo by Jessica Babic Photography)

Wooster – On February 28th, 2021, Robert “Pete” Bogner, son of Theodore and Martha Bogner, passed away at the age of 100 + years in his Wooster home that he built in 1946.  Pete was the icon of the Bogner Family. He and his brother, Richard, were the 2nd generation to manage the Bogner Family construction business following in the footsteps of their father, Theodore Sr., who founded the company in 1897. In the fall of 1944 while both Pete and Richard were stationed in Italy, Pete, a First Lieutenant in the 15th Army Air Corp, stationed in Foggia, and Richard, a First Sergeant, in the 34th Infantry Division, met and made a pact that if they both lived through WWII, they would come home and join their father in the family construction business. Happily, they both survived and in late 1945, Theodore Bogner and Sons, Inc. was founded, and for the next 34 years it was one of the premier General Contractors in Ohio. In 1979 a third generation, Ted & Bob Bogner, assumed ownership of the company. Richard passed in 1980, but Pete remained to provide his many years of experience, wisdom, and guidance to the company.  In 1941 Pete transferred from the College of Wooster to attend King College in Bristol, Tennessee where he earned his pilot’s license in their aviation program. Shortly after the start of WWII, Pete left King College and enlisted in the US Army Air Corp where he trained as a B-24 bomber pilot. He was called to Active Duty in late 1943. Pete had an outstanding World War II record as a B-24 Bomber pilot, earning several medals and citations. He flew 28 successful bombing missions over German held territories in Austria, Southern Germany, and Romania. As with most true heroes, Pete was always reluctant to talk about his military service. However, on a bright Saturday afternoon in 2009, Pete returned to King College, where he walked with other graduates and received an honorary degree in recognition of his service to his country during WWII.  A true community business leader, Pete was recognized many times for his lifelong integrity and love for Wooster and the construction business. Pete’s life could be summed up in one word: gentleman; he was always appreciative and respectful of others with a great sense of humor and a warm smile. Pete was a 72-year member of the Rotary Club of Wooster and served as its President in 1971-72. He was a 72-year member of the Elks Club of Wooster, and a 71-year member of The American Legion. As an avid golfer, he was a member of the Wooster Country Club and a regular on the links until only a few years ago. He made two Hole-in-One’s in 1979 on Hole #4 (which is currently Hole #10). Pete also served for 35 years on the Board of Directors of Western Reserve Group; a local insurance company based in Wooster.  Pete was a Wayne County Fund Drive Co-Chairman for several years for the College of Wooster. During his tenure, he provided great leadership and generosity by committing his own resources before asking others to invest theirs. A long-time member and supporter of the Downtown Rebounders and a regular attender at Fighting Scots football and basketball games, Pete was a fixture at many of their home athletic events.  Pete’s best friend was his wife, Jean Anne “Bunny” Bogner, who preceded him in death in 1997. Bunny was a graduate of the College of Wooster Class of 1942, and served many years on the College of Wooster Women’s Advisory Board. To celebrate and honor Bunny’s service on the Board, Pete established and was a generous contributor to the Jean “Bunny” Bogner Endowed Scholarship.  He was preceded in death by his sons: Robert Earle and infant Robert Allen.  Pete is survived by his daughter Barbara (Bill) Patterson of Leawood, Kansas. In May of 2020, Pete’s son, Robert E. Bogner, passed away unexpectedly. Bob’s wife, Nancy, has been a wonderful and compassionate companion for Pete since Bob’s death. Pete leaves his 6 grandchildren: grandsons Brian (Amy), Michael (Kelli), Adam (Bernadette), all residents of Wooster who now comprise part of the 4th generation to manage the Bogner Construction Company, and granddaughters Julie Godbout of Glenwood, Iowa, Beverly (Brian) Weber of Shawnee, Kansas, and Valerie Patterson of Centerton, Arkansas. Great-grandchildren are Brenden, Casey, Lilli, Bailey, Garrett, Piper, Grady, Archie, Owen, Bunny, and great granddaughter Lucy who passed away in 2010.  The McIntire, Bradham, & Sleek Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. A memorial service will be scheduled for later in the year when proper arrangements can be made.  In lieu of flowers, the family recommends contributions be made to the Robert “Pete” Bogner Rotary Scholarship Fund at the Wayne County Community Foundation, 517 North Market Street, Wooster, OH 44691.  Online condolences may be left for the family at www.mcintirebradhamsleek.com.  Published on March 01, 2021

James Kenneth Muncy, Sr., 84, died Friday September 24, 2021.  He was born November 5, 1936, in Inez, KY., the son of Mr. and Mrs. James H. Muncy, and married Patricia Ann Tyler on August 11, 1962. They were married 59 wonderful years. She survives.  He went into the Air Force after graduating from Wooster High School, and trained as a weather forecaster. After his tour of duty in the Air Force, he went to the College of Wooster and graduated from Ashland College with a Bachelors Degree in Education and a Masters Degree in Education. He started his teaching career in 1960 teaching 7th grade at Franklin Elementary School. After that he taught 7th grade Science at Triway Jr High. In 1972 he returned to Franklin Elementary to teach 5th grade, where he stayed until he retired in 1988. He was also a track, baseball, and basketball coach for several years during this time. Jim loved to teach and thoroughly enjoyed his students. He was a lifelong passionate fisherman and treasured spending time with friends at the lake in Canada. He also loved playing cards with his wife and friends. He spent his summers fishing at Lake Wah-Wash-Kesh in Ontario and always had a story to share.  Surviving in addition to his wife are children, Jim (Cathi) Muncy Jr of Port Clinton, OH.; Stephanie Muncy West (Mark) of Conesville, OH; and Bill (Diane) Muncy of Stow, OH.; grandchildren, Rob (Jessica) Billius; Nick Billius; Aloiya (Logan) Kremer; Jackson (Elizabeth) Earl; and Damon (Jessica) West of Conesville; and Billy and Ashley Muncy of Stow, OH,; 12 Greatgrandchildren; a twin sister, Elizabeth Muncy Hauenstein (Don), of Dalton, brother-in-law, Walter F. “Ty” Tyler of Smithville; and several nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. James H. Muncy.  Calling hours will be at the McIntire, Bradham & Sleek Funeral Home, 216 E. Larwill St., Wooster on Tuesday, September 28, 2021 from 4:00-7:00pm.  Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, September 29, 2021 at 11:00am at the funeral home with John Schmid officiating. Burial will follow in the Wooster Cemetery.  Online condolences may be left for the family at www.mcintirebradhamsleek.com  Posted online on September 25, 2021

Kelly (Porten) Lagerlof (’14) got married on January 16th, 2022 to Karl Lagerlof. There was a mini Wooster reunion! Pictured: Maggie Etheridge (’14), Kelly (Porten) Lagerlof (’14), Ruth McKee Porten (’84), and Sarah Crosswy (’14)

Lisa Dordal’s second collection of poetry, Water Lessons, is now available through Black Lawrence Press or wherever books are sold.

Water Lessons explores the relationship between reality and imagination, faith and doubt, and presence and absence, as the speaker grapples with multiple dimensions of grief arising from her mother’s alcoholism and eventual death; her father’s deepening dementia; and her own childlessness. Against the backdrop of these personal griefs, the speaker scrutinizes the patriarchal underpinnings of the world she grew up in as well as her complicity in systemic racism as a white girl growing up in the 70s and 80s. Woven throughout the book are the speaker’s meditations on a divine presence that, for her, is both keenly felt and necessarily elusive, mirroring the speaker’s ultimate celebration of her unborn daughter as a “lovely fiction” who is both here and not here.

“Dordal demands that we not only see the past, but that we step into its deceptively gentle tide, one that sweeps us back to the people, places, and eras that still haunt us. In these poems, no one is truly safe, no one is truly innocent, and no one is truly gone. Water Lessons teaches us that swimming against the current of remembrance is futile. We can only trust the water to hold us without drowning us, and to return us to some shore, even if where we land is not where we were first submerged.” —Destiny O. Birdsong, author of Negotiations, longlisted for the 2021 PEN America Literary Awards

John Warren was the Floyd family historian, often bringing large envelopes of newspaper clippings to holiday gatherings. He could trace his Floyd ancestors back nine generations to County Donegal in Ireland. A longtime resident of Ben Avon, he lived in a house built in 1901 by his grandfather. For decades, he helped assemble the Hunter Clan for reunions on the grounds of the Deer Creek United Presbyterian Church. Mr. Warren, 71, died unexpectedly on August 21, after a brief illness. The son of the late Dorothy Floyd Warren and Charles Bradley Warren. He is survived by his sister, Charlotte W. Marson; and nieces, Laura Marson and Joanna Marson, all of Charleston, South Carolina; as well as longtime companion, Anita Reed of Ben Avon. A soft-spoken man, he was active with Community Presbyterian Church in Ben Avon, Amnesty International and various environmental organizations. John brought a passion for helping others and making the world a better place to those and many other works. He attended the College of Wooster and graduated from Duquesne University. As a conscientious objector during the Vietnam War, he performed national service for two years at a children’s home in Philadelphia. He then taught elementary school for seven years before transitioning to a career in information technology. John was a well-read man who enjoyed Pirates baseball and walks through historic sites such as Allegheny Cemetery. He loved to organize outings with his cousins, Peter Burk of O’Hara Twp. and Steve Kaufman of Castle Shannon; these trips usually ended with a visit to a nearby microbrewery. Mr. Warren was buried in the family plot at Deer Creek cemetery. Charitable contributions in his memory may be made to the Community Presbyterian Church, 7501 Church Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15202. Arrangements entrusted to McDONALD-LINN FUNERAL AND CREMATION SERVICE.  Memorial Service, Community Presbyterian Church of Ben Avon, August 7, 2021, 10:30 a.m. Please wear a mask.  Published on August 1, 2021

Hello everyone I just retired on 1/3/22 after 40 years.  We missed our 45th reunion.  I hope our 50th will be held in 3 years we only go this way once in life :-).  Stay safe everyone

Michael and I welcomed our third child this past January. Ezekiel joined his big sisters, Madeleine and Celeste.

As a member of the City of Sherwood’s Senior Advisory Board I have enjoyed being in the “know” about city business.  We just got a new City Manager and will be getting a new Police Chief.  The Board is designing a survey for Seniors (a growing population in our town at 1,881 – almost 10% of population), then hope to address at least some of our needs.  Transportation is an urgent concern.  We are in the process of getting the city to support applying to be an Age Friendly City.  Of the original 33 Age Friendly Cities in the WORLD, Portland, OR was the only US city.  This worldwide effort was sponsored by the World Health Organization.  From their website:  “With Resolution A/RES/46/91, UN Member States adopted The United Nations Principles for Older Persons, based on the International Plan of Action on Ageing, encouraging Governments to incorporate the principles of Independence, Participation, Care, Self-fulfilment and Dignity into their national programmes wherever possible. These principles are the foundation for the Age-friendly Cities approach.”   Worth checking into for your town.

My socializing includes Playing Mah Jongg twice a week. (Better than paying for therapy!)  Senior Studies programs on Zoom, Netflix as well as the wealth of other offerings keep me stimulated.  The hundreds of books on my shelves is slowly dwindling but I still read more current books, especially Historical Fiction.  The Sherwood Book Group is reading “Tightrope” by Nicholas D. Kristof and Sheryl WuDunn (his wife).  He is an excellent former NY Times writer and with his wife earned a couple Pulitzers.  Kristof is hoping to running for Oregon Governor but is having residency issues!  I wish for you and yours a healthy, stimulating new year!

Don lives in Oak Park, Ill, phone 3126560131.

His beloved wife Delores died late December 2021.   His two sons are great support but Don welcomes news from old friends.  Jim McClung, Dave Jordan, Joan Bowser and Gretchen Van Matre have reached out; join us.

Jessica Baylor (Class of 2008) married Jeremy Healey on November 13, 2021 with friends and family in attendance in Newburyport, MA. Jessica and her younger sister, Isabel Baylor, Class of 2012 both played lacrosse for Coach Elizabeth Ford who was in attendance with her family. After graduating from Wooster, Jessica moved to Boston and lived with many Wooster alums that traveled from California, Texas and Massachusetts. Jeremy was too busy on the dance floor with Coach Ford’s children, Preston and Sierra to get in the picture.

Pictured from left to right: Elizabeth Ford, Erin Rose Dacyczyn (’10), Isabel Baylor (’12), Jessica Baylor (’08), Rachel Spatz (’09), Cassie Brown (’08), Jen Jones (’08), Sarah Hammond Shumate (’08), Alex Brower (’08), Jessica Lee Ellis (’09).

For the Audubon Society of Portland, Beth Parmenter ’75, Emily Barlow ’76, and Susan Yoder ’75 (photographer) put together bag treats for the volunteers at the annual November Wild Arts Festival. We had a great time reminiscing and getting caught up on our lives since the beginning of COVID!

Houston Hoskins ’11 and Kristofer Konkel celebrated their marriage with friends and family on Sunday, October 31, 2021. The ceremony took place at the historical Martha Mary Chapel within Greenfield Village, located at the Henry Ford Museum. Wooster alumni, Alexandra Gioiella ’11, was the Maid of Honor, and Kendra Spergel ’11, was her bridesmaid. Afterward, the reception was held in the Eagle Tavern within the Greenfield Village.

Pictured is the entire bridal party (Left to right: Jeff Earl – Groomsman, Eva Kelly – Bridesmaid, Casmer Maliszewski – Groomsman, Kendra Spergel ’11, Charles Marleau – Best Man, Houston Konkel ’11 – Bride, Kristofer Konkel – Groom, Alexandra Gioiella ’11 – Maid of Honor, Tim Hoeft – Groomsman, Jillian Rudin – Bridesmaid, Laurence Vickery – Groomsman). Photographer credited – Maddi Ibanez, MARS Photography.

I successfully defended my dissertation on project-based learning in the spring of 2021 and earned my Ph.D. in Instructional Management and Leadership from Robert Morris University. Conducting the research, completing the course work, and defending the dissertation during the pandemic was challenging and often surreal, but it gave me an appreciation for all the educators and students who had to adapt incredibly quickly to changing conditions and were still generous with their time and insights while under tremendous stress.

This past October, McFarland published my second book “A Worldbuilder’s Guide to Magic”, a mix of writer’s guide and history/literature book.

It has been an honor and privilege to serve on the 2022 John Newbery Award Selection Committee. The Newbery Medal is awarded annually by the American Library Association for the most distinguished American children’s book published the previous year. The fourteen other members of my committee and I have been reading voraciously all year and I can’t wait till we select the winning titles in January! This will be the 100th year the Newbery Medal has been awarded, adding special meaning to my service this year. Professor Larry Stewart had a tremendous impact on me during my time at Wooster. I wish I could tell him all about this experience, I think he’d probably be tickled to know I’ve thought about him and his Children’s Lit class so much this year.

Neil Cameron Hughes, 85, died peacefully on Wednesday, December 22, 2021, from complications of ALS, at his home in Leesburg, Virginia, He was born in Santiago, Chile on December 17, 1936 to Ronald Keith Hughes and Margaret Gibson Hughes, where the family lived through World War II before returning to the United States.

Hughes received his B.A. in history from The College of Wooster in 1959 and then went on to study British colonial history at the University of Edinburgh. After three years in the U.S. Navy, where he became a lieutenant and chief engineering officer of the USS Mills during the Cuban Missile Crisis, he attended The Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy, graduating with an M.A. in international finance and public policy. He joined Bankers Trust Co. in New York, then moved to the World Bank in 1968, where he spent the next 33 years working in 25 countries as an industrial and financial development specialist.

In 1972, he was assigned as the World Bank’s resident project officer in charge of implementing the Bank’s Earthquake Reconstruction Project. Over 15 months in 1973-1974, Hughes participated in excavations by Lic. Jorge Espinosa Estrada, Director of Anthropology and History at the National Geographic Institute of Nicaragua. On his return to Washington, he earned a masters degree in anthropology at George Washington University.

Hughes’ last World Bank assignment was as senior operations officer in the China and Mongolia Department from 1992 to 1997 and as a consultant on China to the World Bank until 2004. In 2003, M.E. Sharpe published his book China’s Economic Challenge: Smashing the Iron Rice Bowl. His articles about China’s rise have been published in Foreign Affairs (1998, 2005), Asian Wall Street Journal (2003), and The American Interest (2008).

In 1989, he and his wife of 53 years, Kathleen, bought an historic house in Waterford, Virginia, and he devoted himself to the study of the American history and to its preservation. He served on the board and as president of the Waterford Foundation and wrote A Village in Time: 1690-1990, in which he delved into the history he discovered in this National Historic Landmark village where he spent 30 rich and happy years.

He is survived by his favorite dance partner, traveling companion, and wife, Kathleen Pope Hughes; two beloved daughters, Sara Hughes McNeal and Jennifer Norris Hughes; and three grandchildren, Isabel, Charlotte, and Thomas McNeal, and his twin brother Gordon Leslie Hughes of Whiting, New Jersey.

A memorial service will be held later this spring at St. James Episcopal Church in Leesburg with internment in the Waterford Union Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made to the Waterford Foundation or to Save the Children or UNICEF.

Online condolences may be made to the family at www.loudounfuneralchapel.com

Chelsea (Conover) Barnes ‘07 and her husband Justin welcomed their first child into the world, Rosemary Landon Barnes, on October 19th.

I have started a guide business! I lead safaris to the Serengeti and also Kilimanjaro and Mt Meru climbing adventures. I have been going to Tanzania since 2011 and love showing that safe, friendly, beautiful country to others. I also lead hikes, paddles, xc skiing, snowshoeing, etc in the Lake Placid, NY, Adirondack Mt area. Check out my guide business website, www.adkallseasonsguideservice.com and contact me personally if you are interested in an adventure, especially the safari trips which happen in our calendar winter or summer. My contact information is peggymackellar58@gmail.com, 518 523-1341-h land line.

I am still singing in my church choir (with masks on!) but other choirs are not operating currently due to Covid. I am still working 4 days a week as a dental hygienist in Lake Placid.

I hope to get a group of Wooster Alumni to go on safari with me, maybe even in summer 2022.

Cathy (Hendrickson) Wirzylo (class of 1971) passed away on December 7, 2021 in Avon, Ohio after a long illness.  She is survived by her husband Gary Wirzylo (class of 1970), sister Linda Kruger, and sons Michael and Stephen (class of 1999).

Ramses Clements ’10 and Mikayla Miller’s wedding took place at Gervasi Vineyard in Canton, OH.  Ramses said, “It was an absolute blast having all of the Woo family there to celebrate our big day. Fifteen years of friendship all thanks to Wooster.” Wedding party included Christopher Malone ’10, Mike Ruttinger ’05, Amanda Artman ’10, Jon Mathis ’10, Jazmin Malone, Dana Obery ’13, Brian Swan ’10, Rob Kelm ’07, John Obery ’10, Derek Calhoun ’11, Bryan Albani ’10, Ashton Deist ’10, Liz Pratt ’11, Megan Croke ’10, Joe Rodella ’11, Sarah Palagyi ’10, Jesse Gaswint ’10, Julie Rodella ’10, Kristine Gaswint ’10, Storm Tropea ’10, Mike Francescangeli ’10, Chip Hanson ’82 and Nic Coggins ’12.

Second picture: Matthew Parmelee (’17), Nick Ryan (’16), Kelsey Clark (’16), and myself playing in the DC rec league. Note the Woo gear y’all sent us!

First picture: Kelsey Clark (’16) and myself coaching kindergarteners in the local recreational league in Alexandria, VA.

Sunshine and smiles, Suzanne Gamble was a model of joy, positivity and love to all who knew her. Nicknamed “Sunny” Suzanne by her grandmother, she drew friends, coworkers, and family to her warm personality even as she battled cancer for over twelve years.

Suzanne was born on March 2, 1969, in the Cleveland area to Tom and Mary Ann Stibbe. After completing her biology degree at the College of Wooster, she pursued a Masters in entomology at the University of Georgia where she met her future husband Doug Gamble also of Cleveland. As a graduate student, Suzanne notably discovered the Rheocyclops (R. Carolinianus), a copepod that was later verified as a new genus by the Smithsonian Institute.

Following graduate school, she and Doug moved to Mississippi and then Wilmington, NC. Suzanne concentrated on raising their two boys while gardening, reselling furniture and antiques, and collecting bug specimens which she preserved in the kitchen freezer. Eventually, a part-time sales position turned into a twenty-year passion at Cape Fear Jewelry & Antiques where Suzanne specialized in identifying designer and unusual pieces, and enthusiastically explaining the entomology of insect jewelry to collectors.

Just like the dragonfly, Suzanne’s known spirit insect, she was a transformational and inspirational example of strength, courage and grace as she pursued a life that never bowed to either pain or disease. With her ready smile, open heart, generous spirit, faithful friendship and forgiving nature, Suzanne Elizabeth Gamble, aged 52, passed in comfort surrounded by family on October 27, 2021.

Suzanne is survived by her devoted husband of 25 years, Doug Gamble (Wilmington) and two beloved sons, Devin (19) and Paul (12), her mother Mary Ann Stibbe of Leland, sister Sarah (Constantine) Damaskos of Montclair, NJ, sister Jennifer (Ravi) Rajan of Yardley, PA, brother Matthew (Fancy) Stibbe of Penn Valley, CA, eight nieces and nephews as well as her most faithful friend and mentor, Pait Skipper (Wilmington).

Services will be held in Wilmington, NC at First Presbyterian Church on Friday, November 5, 2021 at 2 pm. Immediately following, family and friends are invited to a reception and repast at the church. Calling hours are Thursday, November 4 from 2-4 pm at Andrews Mortuary. To join the Friday service online, go to https://boxcast.tv/view/suzanne-gamble-memorial-service-386262

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider a donation to Lower Cape Fear Lifecare Center, the Zimmer Cancer Center or the blood bank or hospice of your choice.

Share online condolences with the family, here, in the guestbook.

https://www.andrewsmortuary.com/obituary/suzanne-gamble

Marty Lattman, head coach of Morgan’s club team, shares the same attitude toward Morgan preserving and continuing to fill the big shoes the team of the 1970s left behind.

Lattman’s experience with collegiate lacrosse spans over five decades as he played against Morgan in the 1970s while attending Wooster University in Wooster, Ohio.

Lattman’s goals for the team align with Johnson’s. Both want to preserve the history lacrosse had on Morgan’s campus, but they also want for the team to gain exposure and compete like they once did.

Lattman also desires to see his players get “to have access to athletic facilities” and have the same amenities as all the other sports teams at Morgan.

Read more

HUGHES, James Earl, 90, of Richmond, Virginia, departed this earth on September 12, 2021. He was predeceased by his parents, Col. Clayton Earl and Martha Hipp Hughes; and his beloved wife of 56 years, Dr. Carol Caswell Hughes. Jim is survived by his daughter, Susan Hughes Grymes, her husband, Stokes Grymes, their sons, William Atkinson, Jim Atkinson, Tommy Grymes and Alex Grymes and Alex’s wife and daughter, Meg and Palmer Grymes; Jim’s daughter, Barbara Hughes Earp, her husband, Ray Earp, their sons, Raven and Malachi Earp, their daughter, Melissa Thomas and her husband, Chris Thomas; and “honorary daughter,” Gloria Crook, her children, Hank Crook, Regina Clarke and Sophia Clarke and their families. Jim is also survived by his best friend, Mildred Privott, who entered his life and brought so much happiness when joy seemed improbable.

The only child of a military family, Jim was born at Schofield Air Force Base in Hawaii on March 16, 1931. He moved frequently during his youth, living in at least 15 states before graduating from high school in 1951. From the age of 10, Jim attended numerous military boarding academies. Jim first discovered Richmond during the summer of 1945 when his father was stationed at the Byrd Airfield Base, training fighter pilots and overseeing the closing of the military base at the end of WWII. Jim contracted polio during junior high school, while living at Fort Crook in Nebraska, but was lucky to remain largely unaffected by the disease until much later in life.

Jim first joined the military during high school as a member of the Army Reserves in Montgomery, Alabama so he could fly planes with his father. He worked in Greenland during the summer before college as a shipping clerk, then attended a year of college at Wooster in Ohio in 1951. He worked for the military in Newfoundland, rebuilding runways and auditing equipment at the Stevensville Air Force Base. Jim later joined a second branch of the military, this time the Marines. He completed boot camp at Paris Island in South Carolina and combat photography school in Pensacola, Florida. He was honorably discharged from the Marines several years later to attend college under the G.I. Bill.

Jim met his wife, Carol, while attending George Washington University. During college, Jim continued to serve his country by joining yet a third branch of military, this time the Air Force Reserves. Following graduation from George Washington, Jim and Carol married and moved to New Hampshire, where Jim attended the Tuck Business School at Dartmouth. Jim and Carol settled down in Richmond, Virginia, following the birth of their first child. Once in Richmond, Jim again joined the military, this time serving in the Virginia Air National Guard. Jim received a master’s in commerce from the University of Richmond and worked as an auditor at the Bank of Virginia. He was later employed as Vice President and General Auditor at Southern Bank, where he worked for 18 years. Jim finally retired following yet another 18 years of service as the Senior Internal Auditor with E.R. Carpenter & Company.

Throughout his adult life, Jim valued service to his community and teaching young people. He served on the Henrico Industrial Development Authority, including a position as Chairman, before resigning in 1979 after moving to Ashland. While in Ashland, Jim served in a similar capacity in Hanover County for a number of years. Jim taught courses for the American Institute of Banking in several locations across the country and taught night classes in accounting at Randolph-Macon College and at Fort Lee.

Jim was a devoted family man. Having lived all over the country, he truly appreciated the roots he and Carol established at their home in Ashland, where they remained for 30 years before ultimately retiring to Westminster Canterbury in 2009. Jim was an avid music lover. He particularly enjoyed “dark” classical ensembles, which would often be heard emanating loudly from his home study. Jim loved photography, capturing images whenever and wherever he went throughout his entire lifetime. A history major at George Washington, Jim retained a keen interest in history, reading historical books during his leisure hours whenever possible. He loved overly healthy salads, chocolate milkshakes and hard candies. He was easy to please and hard to ruffle, a gentleman in every respect and a prince among men. He valued character over pomp and was impressed by service more than by means. He will be sorely missed by all who knew him.

A graveside service will be held in Hollywood Cemetery on Friday, October 22, 2021, at 10 a.m., followed by a memorial service at 11:30 a.m. in the Spiritual Center at Westminster Canterbury. Masks will be required at this service. The family requests that all guests for the memorial service be vaccinated to ensure the safety of the residents and staff of the Westminster Canterbury community. The family would particularly like to express our deepest appreciation to the entire staff of the first floor of Parson’s Healthcare for taking such good care of our father during his final years. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the Westminster Canterbury Foundation.

Published by Richmond Times-Dispatch on Oct. 17, 2021.

My husband Howard Sales graduated in 1962.  This blurb could be included in future alumni news.

On August 27, 2021 just before the season’s first football game, a large crowd gathered between Oakwood High School and the  stadium. The well-wishers included former athletes and alumni, all there to dedicate a memorial to Howard Sales, head football coach at Oakwood from 1968 – 1986, compiling 112 wins, the most in the school’s history.

Members of all 19 teams plus other supporters donated to the brick pillar topped with a bronze replica of Coach Sales’ ever-present hat which gave him the  nickname of “Howard the Hat”.  This memorial will serve as a touchstone for future teams as they leave the locker room and enter the stadium.  Howard’s family attended with gratitude for this posthumous honor to his legacy.

(Submitted by his wife Patsy.)

Members of the classes of 1977-1980 got together for a reunion on October 9 in Valley Forge PA. We’ve been zooming every Friday night for a Crandell Cocktail Hour since CoVID came on, and decided it was time to meet in-person. Contact me for names.

8/1/20 – Catholic Ceremony – Virtual – COVID

Forsberg, Clarence T. July 9, 1924 – January 8, 2018 Clarence T. Forsberg, 93, of Venice, Florida, died on January 8, 2018. There are no services planned at this time. Funeral arrangements by: Farley Funeral Home in Venice. Published by Herald Tribune from Feb. 7 to Feb. 8, 2018.

Jim Janasko writes: “My daughter, Maria, will graduate from Wooster this year with a degree in Communications. She had a fantastic career playing basketball for the college for four years. It was great to have a reason to visit the campus. Maria was on track to score 1,000 points for her career, which unfortunately was cut short due to COVID. She was the only player to appear and start in all 25 game. Maria won NCAC Athlete of the Week – 2/3/20 – after leading Wooster to an 84-79 win against Allegheny, where she scored a career high 29 points and a game high of 8 rebounds. “ Jim continues to work in the family insurance company. His wife Connie is retiring this year from teaching in the Lorain City School System. Son, Mark works with Jim in the insurance company and just recently closed on his first house. Michael works for Lincoln Electric selling robotic welding equipment.

Another group holding weekly Zoom get together are a group of men of KX (Seventh Section) from 1973 – 1977. The group includes ‘73ers Dan Hyatt, Bill Henley, Dave “Tiny” Wilbur, and Rod Russell. Class of’74 members are Tim Fusco, Chris Nicely, Don Allman, and Brian Chisnell. From the Class of ‘75 are Denny Zeiters, Jay Schmidt, Gene Schindewolf, Mike “Poon” Patterson, Jim Clough, Robin Harbage, Dave Stenner, and “Easy” Ed Snyder. Representing the Class of ‘76 are Pat McLaughlin, Dave “Bird” Branfield, and Rick Hopkins and Dave Churchill is from the Class of ‘77. There are many exchanges of memories, some smack talk, and many laughs as pictures from long, long ago are produced! (note from me: the group contact is Bill Henley ‘73.) Debbie Starr Branfield Secretary, Class of 1976

Focus on Black-owned businesses: Violin Bowman engages families at his Suzuki studio Kerry Clawson Akron Beacon Journal Jamieson Bowman leads a Suzuki violin class with students Anderson Ersahin, 3, left, of Akron and Nora Callard, 4, of Sharon Center at his studio, Violin Bowman, in Fairlawn. Jamieson Bowman in his studio, Violin Bowman, in Fairlawn. As Jamieson Bowman rolled around on his wheeled stool and coaxed preschoolers with tiny violins to stand on their marked spots on little rugs, he looked and sounded like he was in his element. “Take a bow,” he exhorted 4-year-old Nora Callard and 3-year-old Anderson Ersahin, right before they launched into their Suzuki lesson Thursday. Bowman, who was a Cook County prosecutor when he lived in Chicago, has been pursuing his music teaching passion in recent years after relocating to Northeast Ohio in 2013 for his wife Jane McClellan’s job. The Bath resident, who has played violin since he was 2, founded the Violin Bowman Music Studio in 2018, now located in Fairlawn. It’s a fun play on words, considering he’s a bowman (violinist) and that just happens to be his last name. But his young charges at their lesson Thursday just liked calling him “Mr. Jamie.” Bowman, 46, grew up Rochester, New York, where he was a three-sport athlete at a high school where everybody also played an instrument. That’s because his community was right near the renowned Eastman School of Music. “You throw a stick and you can hit a violinist,” he said of his hometown. “It never crossed by mind to stop playing,” said Bowman, who works to make learning music part of the family experience for this students. “Music is just one of those things that always was a focus in our family, as an expression for self.” Bowman’s mother, Ruby, a home economics teacher who had no formal music training herself, taught her son the entire Suzuki repertoire when he was a child. His father, the late James Bowman, was a clinical psychologist who played piano, organ, guitar and trumpet in churches throughout town. Bowman earned his Suzuki violin teacher certification in 2019. He’s also currently a full-time music teacher substitute at Woodridge Elementary School. Your stories live here. Fuel your hometown passion and plug into the stories that define it. Create Account Coming back to Northeast Ohio was a bit of a homecoming for this music teacher, who earned his undergraduate degree in sociology at the College of Wooster. After college, Bowman moved to Chicago, where he focused on early childhood education at a community center through the Lutheran Volunteer Corps. That led to his first go-around teaching music, his Quality Time Music School in Chicago, before he went to law school. Even after he became a lawyer, he continued to teach some of those students. Bowman’s teaching in the Akron area started with a violin club for Revere schools in 2018, at the suggestion of Bath Elementary School Principal Dan Fry. The district was starting an orchestra program for fourth and fifth graders, so Bowman started preparing kids in second, third and fourth grades with violin. He created yearlong violin clubs at Richfield and Bath Elementary Schools, starting out with 15 students. (His daughters Clara and Maggie, who study piano and guitar, were Revere students in the later grades at the time.) He also started violin programming at the Shaw JCC. Since moving back to Northeast Ohio, Bowman also has been active playing the fiddle at clubs and bars with local musicians, including drummer Elec Simon of Canton. Bowman’s as comfortable playing rock and funk as he is Irish music, Cajun zydeco, big band and Americana. He was working for a distributor in Canton when he decided to make the leap to open his own studio, starting out at a space in Medina. “I think I can teach. I think a can make a run at this,” Bowman said at the time. He moved to his Fairlawn location in the back of the Premier Bank Building last year. The studio includes a music gaming and video production room, a work in progress where students can play games like DropMix, which allows them to create their own mixes using different clips of pop music. Bowman’s studio is a fun and engaging environment, dominated by violins and a guitar hanging on the wall. He also has wall displays of hammers and keys that the musician took apart himself from his old player piano. Jamieson Bowman, left, leads a Suzuki violin class with students Anderson Ersahin, 3, of Akron and Nora Callard, 4, of Sharon Center at his studio, Violin Bowman, in Fairlawn. Key to the Suzuki method is parental involvement. Parents learn to play the same Suzuki music that their kids do, starting with the basic tune “Mississippi Hot Dog.” On Thursday, when Bowman had the kids play and count back a rhythm that included a rest, Anderson stood between the legs of his seated father Cem, who held the bow with his son to help. “If the parent is playing, the child will want to do it,” Bowman explained. “The parent has to appreciate that what the child is doing is difficult. Suzuki violin is about modeling good behavior, the teacher said. That includes standing correctly and treating your violin with care. “At 3 years old, if you can stand for 45 seconds without running off, you can play,” Bowman said. His wiggly students did, in fact, take a break mid-lesson Thursday to run up and down the hall to burn off some steam. The lesson included playing rhythms with sticks and singing matching pitches with Bowman as each child picked out notes on a keyboard. Bowman, who teaches violin both in person and virtually during the pandemic, has plenty of hand sanitizer on hand at his studio, where all are masked and the kids are distanced on their rugs. He had about 35 students at his Fairlawn studio before the pandemic and is now down to about 20. He uses fun methods to help his young students strengthen their left hands, the nondominant hand they use to do their violin fingering. At the end of Thursday’s lesson, Bowman had Nora and Anderson catching bubbles with their left hands only. Another favorite activity for left-hand strengthening is bowling for little ducks with a rubber ball, also using only the left hand. Identifying notes and matching pitches vocally starting from a young age is all part of the holistic approach for Suzuki learning. “Suzuki learning is about interpreting what you already know and just putting it into your fingers,” Bowman said. “My goal is to create well-rounded people who can play the violin.” Arts writer Kerry Clawson may be reached at 330-996-3527 or kclawson@thebeaconjournal.com. At a glance Business: The Violin Bowman music studio Owner: Jamieson Bowman Where: 3085 W. Market St., Fairlawn Email: theviolinbowman@gmail.com Website: www.theviolinbowman.com About the series Throughout the month of February, the Beacon Journal is profiling Black-owned businesses in Summit County. Read more of these profiles at https://bit.ly/3jb0h1e. The Beacon Journal will continue to highlight minority-owned businesses as part of its ongoing regular coverage. Have a suggestion for a business to feature? Email us at bjnews@thebeaconjournal.com.