1970s

70 55th Reunion Success

Our 55th reunion May 29 - June 1 was a resounding success. Over 100 classmates and spouses enjoyed seeing old dormitory friends and making new ones. The Naval ROTC had an especially big contingent, with a special fete for old and new members. The campus is beautiful, especially with the addition of air conditioning and golf-cart shuttles. We celebrated Friday dinner at McKenna Hall (a spectacular update of both the old Continuing Education Center and Faculty Club, minus the beer stein collection). John Gallagher addressed us on his rewarding year-long experience with ND’s Inspired Leadership Initiative. He led off with a letter from Jimmy O’Connell MD, president of the Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program, who regretted that a family commitment precluded attendance. Hope for a keynote at our 60th. His child may join the Class of 2034. Saturday’s dinner at the Smith Ballroom of the Morris Inn was followed by an informal complementary gathering at Rohr’s Tavern in the hotel, thanks to the wise stewardship of Class funds since graduation. Class elections included Barney King MD, president; Paul Buchbinder, vice president (comeback of the century after losing the presidential election in 1969); Kevin Myles, treasurer (although he desires to transfer the reins to a deserving classmate); and yours truly, secretary. Barney succeeds Rick Libowitz, Paul Partyka, Pat Dowdall, David Spieler and John Zimmerman, who were all elected at past reunions beginning in 1975. Kevin Rooney, Pat Murphy and Rev. Peter Rocca, CSC, all current or former ND faculty, conducted a seminar on ND academics and finances then and now. When Kevin chaired the admissions department, 35 percent of applicants were admitted. Now only 10 percent are accepted. The orientation of education now is “corporate” and less collegial. For example, in 1970 all administrators worked under the Golden Dome and could walk across the hall to discuss business. Now departments, divisions, committees, working groups and armies of support personnel spread across the campus and line up in Teams and Zoom meetings. Nevertheless, the student camaraderie, especially in the dorms, remains a great strength of ND. Sergio Baeza, father of seven and grandfather of 21, flew from Santiago, Chile, to claim the long-distance prize. Our senior class president, Jack Crawford, died June 4. He had served as Hammond IN city judge, then Lake County prosecutor (1979-1989), and prosecuted many high-profile cases, including the murder of Angels outfielder Lyman Bostock. After brief service as first director of IN’s lottery, he switched to private practice until November 2024. He is survived by his wife, Kim DeVane, two sons and two stepchildren. Marc Bayliss delivered the commencement address for the Honors College of Southern Oregon U on June 12. He was one of the college’s founders in 2014. Dan Palmer died in Tallahassee FL on Jan. 5. A graduate of Florida State College of Law in 1973, he worked many decades in private practice and for the City of Jacksonville. After retiring he was executive director of Prisoners of Christ, serving ex-offenders returning to Duval County from prison. He is survived by his brother and two sisters. Joe DiGiovanni died May 19 in Kansas City where he joined his father’s business, Happy Hollow Liquor Stores, and remained until the last store sold in 1985. He then opened Joe D’s Wine Bar Café in Brookside for 19 years. He is survived by his wife, Cynthia, two children and two stepchildren. Sherri and Scott Braley, son Patrick ’95 and his roommates attended the Ohio State - ND game Jan. 20 in Atlanta. Pregame festivities were exciting (2,500 attended Mass in the headquarters hotel). Too bad the last three quarters were unproductive. Paul Gill’s 61st blog post (northlight1961@yahoo.com) featured Richard Gallagher MD, brother of John and professor of psychiatry at NY Medical College, Valhalla. His 2020 book, Demonic Foes: My Twenty-Five Years as a Psychiatrist Investigating Possessions, Diabolic Attacks, and the Paranormal, characterizes his international expertise on the subject. First Friday’s 2024 annual live performance at Blueberry Hill, Chuck Berry’s old hangout, featured three of his songs and two sizzling sets of classic rock and blues. Mike Duell, Bob Ewan, Jack Prendergast, Jim Stynes, Andy Wallace and Norm Zeller wowed an appreciative audience including Dick Lane, Sean Murphy, Jim Peters, Mike Rippey, Mike Saville, Catherine Smith, Karin Ewan and daughter Shannon. Kevin Rooney played a few tunes. A reprise is planned for Oct. 25 at the Sausalito Seahorse. Kevin McCarthy and ND Prof. Gerard Bradley wrote an amicus curiae on behalf of OK’s St. Isidore of Seville Virtual School’s unsuccessful Supreme Court appeal to gain charter school status. — Don Graham; 1901 S. Glenwood, Springfield IL 62704; 217-652-1560; fever1@me.com

 

70MBA Send Updates

I will be your new Class Notes author and hope to receive updates about your lives to include in the next column. I’d like to begin by thanking John Carroll for his time writing the Class Notes, and share some information about myself. I reside in Devon PA (near Villanova) in the PHL suburbs with my German shepherd, Charlie. I was married to BJ for 32 years and have a son in Newport Beach CA and a daughter in NYC. She has three little blond girls — Piper, Parker and Penny. I am on my fourth “gap year” and honestly have not adjusted so well to not working, but I enjoy gardening, biking and training my shepherd. I do not have any class news to share, and perhaps this can “jump start” some communication. It has been a long time, and as a refresher, I sat in the top row, at say 2 o’clock, between Nino Izzo and Dick Segerson. Speaking of Dick, about four years post-graduation he was at Rockwell International in Pittsburgh and referred me to an opportunity there which was a great experience. In the first year before I married BJ, I shared a house with Tom Connelly, Bill Keon, Doug Kaiser and Pete Siciliano; we had some parties there. I have not been back to Notre Dame since school and understand that I would need a tour guide to find my way around. It is on my bucket list for 2025-26. I’m hoping to get some updates. — Richard Johnson; rcjfly68@gmail.com

 

70JD A Wooden Keg Reunion?

Crisp days and cool nights have once again arrived. It is autumn and where I live in western NY it is the most beautiful time of the year. I hope you are also enjoying this fall season wherever you may be. Brad Freeman continues to work part-time with his firm (Bazos, Freeman, Schuster & Pope) in Elgin IL. His plan is to retire full-time at the end of this year. He and his wife, Mary, have 11 grandchildren who, as Brad notes, bring joy to their lives. All the grandkids live nearby and that keeps them busy with sporting and other events. During the winter months he works remotely from his condo in Bonita Springs FL. While not playing as much golf as in the past, he starts each morning with a two-mile walk. Brad sends his best to all. With sadness I note we have lost another classmate. James Kenneth Jesse passed away Nov. 3, 2024. Born in Niles MI, Jim was a graduate of Buchanan HS and earned both a BA degree as well as an MBA degree from Michigan State before beginning studies in our law school class. For more than 53 years he practiced law in Buchanan MI, where he primarily served those in need. His wife, Jeanette ’79JD, worked side-by-side with him in their law office. Jim was a big supporter of his local public school system and always found time to help the town’s Little League, youth hockey and soccer teams. His obituary noted that yearly he would create a Christmas display at his home with over 115,000 lights that brought joy to the entire community. Jim is survived by Jeanette, daughter Susan, sons James and Sean, and five grandchildren. Please remember Jim and his family in your prayers. Joe Jankowski retired from his NJ firm, Wilentz, Goldman & Spitzer, at the end of 2024. He devoted over 30 years of service to a nonprofit hospital as a trustee and past board chairman. Joe was recently honored by the NJ Hospital Association as Hospital Trustee of the Year. In retirement he finds he has more time for playing the piano and hopes Jack Slimm might join him someday to recreate the music they played at the Wooden Keg during law school days. Dick Blumberg is the “world traveler” in our class. When I last heard from Dick he was looking forward to a September cruise on Portugal’s famed Douro River. When cold and snowy weather hit the northern part of the country last winter, our fellow classmates knew exactly what to do: Marie and Ken Iverson said so long to MN and boarded a plane for Maui. Nancy and Joe Kane left Cincinnati to enjoy time in AZ while Mary Kevin and Jamie Cawley bid adieu to the Quaker State and headed for the sun and warmth of West Palm Beach FL. Jamie, the former chairman of the PA Public Utility Commission, has recently authored various op-ed articles on topics of current interest. Did you know we had a movie star in our class? In a closing scene of Rudy, if you watch carefully, you can see none other than Tom Sopko sitting in the stands a few rows behind the ND coach! Finally, as Veterans Day approaches, I want to give a shout-out to all our classmates who served in the military so many years ago. Until next time, happy Thanksgiving and stay well. Go Irish! — John K. Plumb; jkplumb37@gmail.com

 

71 More Authors

Retirement affords the time to address extracurricular projects originally envisioned years ago, that work unfortunately crowded out. Hence we now have two more emerging authors in our midst. Jim DeVoe, in NJ, a longtime exec in the publishing industry, and a colleague, Scot Stratford, published a compilation of 22 memoirs of baby boomers reflecting upon their Greatest Generation fathers. Fathers and Sons: A Tip of the Hat has two central themes: the generational comparison and contrast between our fathers and us, and the multifaceted relationships between us and our dads. Ten of the vignettes are by ND grads, eight from our class. Copies are available on Amazon, at Barnes & Noble, at hattip.net and possibly the ND bookstore. Rev. Mike Couhig, CSC, a longtime vocations director, parish priest and educator with Holy Cross, is semi-retired in snow-less Phoenix. In between admin duties, his woodworking hobby and following the St. Louis Cardinals, he penned Jake the Donkey. The story follows Jake and Jesus through childhood, teen years, into adulthood and concludes with Jesus’ death and resurrection. It is appropriate for second through fourth grades and is available online for $20 through Autom, a bookstore in Phoenix serving the Catholic community for 70-plus years. Sales to date have been brisk enough to pique the interest of ND’s bookstore. Local customers, both parents and grandparents, have purchased it for Christmas, First Communion, Confirmation and birthday gifts. Artist Carl Mehrbach, Lyme NH, continues to exhibit his work at the Silvermine Art Galleries in New Canaan CT. Also see Mehrbach.com. Ted Targonski, Crown Point IN, sent the obituary of his four-year Zahm roommate, Tom Roberts. A native of rural OH north of Columbus, Tom had an electrical engineering degree from ND, an MBA from Ohio State and was a longtime exec with IBM. He and Joan had retired to Colleyville TX and celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in 2023. Condolences to Joan and their family. Tom Mangan passed away in April. A native of Chicago, an A&L guy, history and government, he returned home to teach and coach at the high school level before getting his law degree at night. While practicing law and continuing into retirement, he was still coaching at the high school level. Tom was a regular with our class group that meticulously planned annual summer baseball tours of major league parks, minor league parks and related refreshment establishments. Condolences to Kathy and the family. From Joe Polito, Washington DC, news that Bill Herbert, his fellow US Air Force officer, passed away in April. Bill was a native of NJ and a business management major. He served 25 years, retiring as a colonel, before transitioning to the private sector, later founding RBS Inc. Burial will be at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date. Condolences to his daughter Kimberly and family. If in DC, or Chantilly VA, touring the National Air and Space Museum, look for Joe — he continues to volunteer as a docent at both locations. Bob Ryan passed away in March in Riverview FL. A native of Holyoke MA, he was a government major and career US Army officer, retiring as a lieutenant colonel. Karen and Bob Hurley, Naples FL, were able to attend the services. Condolences to Priscilla and their family. Approximately 50 grads and guests attended the Alumni Reunion in June. Even though 50-year-plus grads can attend each year, the tendency appears to be a continued gravitation to five-year cycles. Thus, this year was used as a beta test to identify and carve out a number of events, meals, etc., solely for our crowd. Kudos to the half-dozen planners behind the scenes; a template is in place for the expected larger turnout at the 55th Reunion June 4 - 7, 2026. Visit reunion.nd.edu for hotel information. Approximately 30 guys attended the 20th annual Hinga-Kelly-Kondrla golf and barbecue outing, with some staying over for Reunion. Congrats to Bob Neidert and Bill Barz for their admin and organizational efforts. The tensest moments were off-course when Joe St. Onge departed Yonkers NY with his long putt trophy from 2024 in his carry-on luggage, to present to the 2025 winner. TSA took particular interest in the mounted, bronzed jockstrap, including a private one-on-one conversation with Joe before clearing them both to board. Enjoy the fall! — John Snider; 830 N. Saint Peter St., South Bend IN 46617-1936; res 574-217-8961; cell 312-860-1779; jlscpa@yahoo.com

 

71MBA Tours and Trips

Several long-distance reports this quarter. Efrain Pelaez still resides in the Philippines, but spends several months each year at his vacation home in Spain. He has four children, all of whom are well-educated and all are quantum leapers. One son has taken over the family businesses. Efrain will soon travel to Scandinavia to visit his daughter who has blessed Efrain with two grandkids. He plans to attend our 55th reunion in 2026. Maria (Acacia) and Hilton Unemuri ’70BSEE live in Maui and have three well-educated children, who have given them seven grandkids. Maria retired from her CPA practice several years ago. Robbie (Parker) ’71MA and Jim Fackelman recently took their three children and six grandkids to Costa Rica for a family vacation. We enjoyed the coffee/cocoa farm and volcano tours, as well as dips in the Pacific Ocean. We took our six grandkids to an ND football game last fall and the three local ones to an NCAA women’s basketball tournament game in the spring. We also make several trips each year to Steamboat Springs CO to visit three grandkids, who have become great skiers. Robbie has come out of retirement to teach math at our grandkids’ parochial school. Patricia and Rod Spear extend their welcome to all visitors to South Bend. Rod keeps me updated on the improvements to the new art museum on campus where he serves as docent. Jim McCullough, still in NYC, is hoping to make a trip to campus in the near future. Jack Sullivan has moved from TN to Tulsa. Gary Groom continues to dance up a storm several nights a week in FL. He made a recent trip to IN to visit grandkids. To keep busy he trades stock and index futures. Helena and Tony Strati will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary and will be blessed with three great-grandchildren by the time this goes to print. They recently took a river cruise down the Nile in Egypt and plan to visit Antarctica in November. They continue to do lots of skiing at their place in Purgatory CO. During a July trip there, they were hiking and ran into the Fackelmans’ son-in-law and two grandsons, who were there to cheer on their mom, who was competing in a 100-mile rugged terrain ultra-marathon, which she completed in 47 hours. Meanwhile the Fackelman grandparents cared for the granddaughter back in Steamboat Springs. Let’s plan for our 55th reunion in fall 2026. Send me your thoughts. — Jim Fackelman; 4635 Lakeview Circle, Slinger WI 53086; cell 414-379-0968; jfackelman@alumni.nd.edu

 

71JD Class Updates Needed

Please email me any updates that you have about you or friends from our class. — E. Bryan Dunigan; 646 Fair Oaks, Oak Park IL 60302; 312-857-2114; bdunigan@duniganlaw.com

 

72 Our Commencement Speaker

A friend of mine in Charlottesville bought a used book, a biography of St. Thomas More: Theodore Maynard, Humanist as Hero (1947). The book contained a note which he donated to Notre Dame’s archives. The note, dated May 27, 1972, and book were a gift from Father Hesburgh to Kingman Brewster, our commencement speaker, then president of Yale. The note reads, “I think you’d like letter #5 (#4 clarifies the disagreement in #5) especially p. 89 where More makes the point that he can disagree with the King without being evil! Thanks, Ted.” Bill Wilka retired last December after practicing law in the San Francisco Bay area for 46 years. He and his wife, Therese (Willke) ’74, live in Mill Valley CA near their son’s family. Sebastian Troia (known as John when he was my roommate) continues to practice pediatric ophthalmology in his native Omaha, as does his brother Robert ’76 and Robert’s son Andrew ’08. Sebastian and Robert’s father, Carl (1923-2011), had studied under the world’s first pediatric ophthalmologist after which he returned to Omaha where he had obtained his bachelor’s at Creighton. Glen Corso, our editor-in-chief of The Observer, retired in 2017 as executive director of the Community Mortgage Lenders of America. He began volunteering to represent children with Fairfax (County VA) CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children). Last year he received the May Cook Award for his work. Two classmates who went to Japan our sophomore year died within a month of each other. Jeffrey Leo Gainey ’72, ’84MBA died March 23 in South Bend. He came to campus after attending St. Andrews Seminary in Rochester NY. Having majored in theology, he taught religion for three years at a Catholic high school in MN, then taught English for two years at a public high school in Paterson NJ. He subsequently worked as a counselor in a South Bend hospital where he met his wife. After obtaining his MBA in 1984, he worked at St. Joseph Bank, then was editor and publisher at Notre Dame Press for 10 years, then U of Scranton Press. Our condolences to his wife, Susan, their three children and the rest of their family. Steve Nussbaum died April 29 in NM. He came to ND from Amarillo TX, one of six boys, including Marty ’74 and Greg ’78. He met his wife, Carmelita, when both were part of the sophomore year abroad program in Japan. They were married in the Log Chapel while students. He obtained a master’s from Sophia U, Tokyo, and a doctorate in anthropology from Cornell. From 1980 to 2000, he taught at Earlham College and led study abroad programs. Then he taught at Waseda U, Japan, before stints at U of Illinois and the U of New Mexico. Our condolences to his wife, their four children and the rest of their family. Dave Lohman died March 5. He was the third of eight children. After graduating from Great Falls Central Catholic High School, MT, in 1967, he attended the Coast Guard Academy for a year. Having majored in psychology, he returned to Great Falls and worked at the State School for the Deaf and Blind, where he met his wife. He obtained a doctorate in educational psychology from Stanford in 1984. He joined the U of Iowa, from which he retired in 2013. Our condolences to his wife, Sherry, their three daughters and the rest of their family. Dr. David Joseph Lah passed away on May 19, 2024. He obtained his doctorate in economics from the U of Wisconsin and then worked 39 years on job training programs as an economist for the Department of Labor. Our condolences to his sister Joan and her children. Let us pray for each other, living and deceased, to the Mother of Holiness. — Jim Thunder; thundergroup@alumni.nd.edu

 

72MBA Apology and a Bit of News

Sorry there was no report in the summer issue. I actually had some news, but there was a problem with the submission that was probably my fault. That column is included at the end of this one. I did hear from Bill Effler recently. Bill had knee replacement surgery in March performed by Dr. Bob Burger ’81. The surgery went well and Bill is already back to his normal activities including playing tennis. He plans to be at the USC game and would like to connect with any classmates who happen to be going. I know the time will be short by the time you read this, but if you’ll be at that game, call me or text me and I’ll send you Bill’s contact information. That’s all for this time, but here’s that column you were supposed to see in July. Good Ol’ Jack: After so many months with no news, I can’t tell you how great it was to hear from Jack Matthews. Jack has been retired since the turn of the century and is living the good life in Dallas near his nine grandchildren. I received Jack’s email right before the Class Notes submission deadline, but he and I plan to catch up some more soon so stay tuned for further news. I hope everyone’s summer is going well and let’s hear from a few more of you. As always, God bless. — Alex McLellan; 913-991-0944; irish72mba@gmail.com

 

72JD Send Updates

I’d love to hear from some classmates. Please email me your updates by Oct. 19. — Chris Schraff; 1881 Marble Cliff Crossing Ct., Columbus OH 43204; 614-227-2097; cschraff@porterwright.com

 

73 McGraw Play Opens in October

Steve McGraw’s play Love Quest will be performed this October at Theatre Winter Haven starring Linda Purl and Patrick Duffy. Steve will be there for the entire run. Any classmates or fellow Notre Damers should attend this incredible production in Winter Haven FL. Don Hricik informed me that he retired from academic medicine at Case Western Reserve in 2022 and recently published another book, The Orchestrators. This is his first attempt at science fiction but encompasses a number of medical themes such as memory loss, dementia, genetic engineering and artificial intelligence. I had earlier reported of a reunion at Dave Larsen’s house in Loveland CO but unintentionally omitted Paul Breen. Many of the group traveled to Cheyenne WY and attended the Cheyenne Frontier Days Rodeo and later traveled to Estes Park CO. David continues to own and operate a land title company in his hometown of Cheyenne Wells CO. Good to hear from Jim Keenan who retired in August 2023. He celebrates his 42nd wedding anniversary this September and communicates regularly with Bill Sauerland. I received news from Albert Brenner stating that he and his wife had lunch in late March with Jim Sweitzer and his wife in Chicago. Jim got his Ph.D. in astrophysics from the U of Chicago and worked at Adler Planetarium and later directed the radio telescope for the U of Chicago at the South Pole. Wow! Albert further reports that thanks to the efforts of John Burkley, he keeps in touch with a number of fellow General Program grads in a Zoom book group that includes John Astuno, Al Depman, Eileen Fitzpatrick, Mark Gaffney, Nick Kiernan, John Moskop, Gil Nadeau and Joe O’Gorman. Albert is a semi-retired investment manager living in West Hartford CT. I received an email from Doug Cerretti. Doug told me that the introduction to his future wife, Diane, came at of all places the Notre Dame library. He and Diane then went back to campus to recreate their special moment. This chance encounter has lasted 51 years with four kids and seven grandkids. It’s good to hear that frequent contributor John Mowbray of Las Vegas is in remission for his cancer following a visit to UCLA. John is one of the most renowned lawyers in Las Vegas. Dan Balmert writes from the Cleveland/Akron area with news that he and classmates Kevin Garvey (retired from Progressive Insurance as a computer tech specialist) and Mike Givler (a retired attorney with a specialty in tech-related matters) meet regularly at a greasy spoon diner along with other Notre Damers. Dan retired after 41 years from Vorys law firm specializing in litigation. He now spends his time as a volunteer at the NICU of the Akron Children’s Hospital. Finally and unfortunately, there are always deaths to report. The Alumni Office informed me of the deaths of football star John Cieszkolowski of Clarkson MI and Michael Tully of Evanston IL. David Jones passed away in April. He graduated from the NYU School of Law and was a member of the law firm of Jensen Baird where he remained until his retirement in 2023. Bob Stricker Jr. passed away peacefully Jan. 29. He was a longtime resident of San Diego CA, building a successful career as an attorney. Bill Workman was employed as a store manager and district manager for Hanover Shoes and transitioned to automobile sales in Frederick MD before passing away in early 2025. I’m always looking for news. — Michael W. Hansen; 3013 Sanctuary Court, Joliet IL 60435; cell 815-212-3661; mikehansen@mikehansenlaw.com

 

73MBA Diminishing Response Returns

John Rapa writes that he will be starting his new year with Intuit (TurboTax) early this year in August for the peak period in October when the extensions are due. Then, he will stay on until the end of April 2026, unless asked to extend. Gus Browne tells us about no news from Kankakee IL. All is good. He’s trying to stay cool in this June heat wave. His central air went out and then $14,000 later they are cool again. Ugh. No travel plans. Just living the good life as a retired person. Tim Geoghegan especially shares “For God, Country and Notre Dame.” Hard to find a more inspirational, inclusive and powerful motto, right? Writing this with July 4 still visible in the rear-view mirror, I can’t help but think of the contributions our military has made to get our country to the verge of 250 years … the Army, Navy and Marines right there from or before the start! I had the blessing, privilege and benefit of having many of you former military men around me while at ND, notably Bill Weldon, Skip Schrader, Thomas Jindra, Will Jones, Michael Gormley, Chuck Welter and Chuck Arentowicz. That was a difficult time to be in the military, and regardless of what you experienced in your service years, I never heard ill will, grousing or complaints. You guys were wonderful role models who led by example. Thanks to you and all our other military classmates who kept our country safe during a difficult time. Also, 55 is not just a speed limit … it’s our next Reunion in 2028! My wife and I will celebrate 50 years of marriage on July 26. Between our daughter and son, we have four grandchildren. Where does the time go? Please take the time to share your experiences with your classmates in this legacy publication. Update your email addresses at my.nd.edu. Come visit us when in SoCal. — Thomas Jindra; tajindra@charter.net

 

73JD The Usual Report

The report this quarter is like most other reports — nothing to report. I think I have threatened in the past to start soliciting updates, so do not be surprised if you receive an email asking “what is up.” — Paul Reagan; 30 Bokum Road, Apt. 134, Essex CT 06426; cell 847-915-9796; pvreagan@gmail.com

 

74 Autumn at ND and in Our Lives

It was good to hear from Charlie Flood. In addition to Chicago where Charlie spent most of his career with Ernst & Young, he lived/worked in NYC and Paris, then spent four years in CT when his children were small. He talks of how Paris was “very rewarding” personally and professionally for him. After retiring from E&Y he did some consulting but now is fully retired. Charlie mentioned that he underestimated the Irish football championship run even after the Indiana playoff win. He and his wife, Raquel (Paez) ’76SMC, planned to visit their old Paris neighborhood where they joyously lived for three years. Charlie mentioned the fun and true nature of the international ND network when they attended a game-watch hosted by the ND Paris Club at the Mazel, a local Paris bar, with 35 other ND alumni. Being in Paris, the kickoff was at 1:30 a.m., yet they stayed until the end … 6:30 a.m. Great fun was had with friend Mark Boyle ’00 who came over from Dublin, and Claudia Ramirez ’03 from Geneva. They met outside the Notre-Dame Cathedral, which he mentioned the renovations are a must-see. Tom Ritter sends greetings from Arendtsville PA. Tom has been able to connect with fellow alums Joe Pert, Maureen Stover and Mike Hinga. The fond memories of such reengagements. They are all doing extremely well in retirement. Tom has also done some superb trout fishing in Chester County PA. Brandywine Creek is the place to go! As we all know, since our 50th reunion last year, we can attend all future reunions. Mike McGuire and Jim Hynan did go back for their 51st, as did Jim Pauer. Chris “Hawk” Stevens was the guest speaker at the Lake County IL UND Night celebration last April. Gary Potempa and John Matthews also enjoyed Chris’ presentation. Chris came to Boston additionally to present. Hawk’s speech on leaving change in a changing world was spot-on. As usual, his delivery was stellar. And staying young, Chris is teaching eight classes at Notre Dame this academic year. Carol Longo Kaupp, my dearest former college roommate, traveled to the Panama Canal during the summer months, a tremendous experience from what she has said. Russ Dodge was elected president of the board of directors for Community Radio 91.9 WITT with studios in Indianapolis and Zionsville. Jerry Samaniego, Ken “Geek” Wolbeck, Tom “Big T” Ross, Duke Scales and Greg “ZAT” Szatko and their wives met in Edwards CO this past summer for a week of hilarious fun and laughter. Who knew Edwards was the happening spot these days? “Beyond awesome” is how the POG group described the 2025 golf adventures in Destin FL. Dennis Lozzi won the ART award for his educational session. Chris Devcich received the Rookie of the Year award — the newcomer. Jeff Hart suggested he has Vance nightmares which are often offset by ladies dressed in white. John Trampe entertained an attentive audience with his jokes, though they could have been more effective if he had remembered the punch lines. Bob Cimino continued his impressive golf winning streak when paired with Dr. Pat McGrath, extending his record to 44-0. Greg Szatko presented his new toy, which included a mini drone, to the team. He also came in second in the ART award for parking his car in a chuck hole not knowing his parking brake was on as the guys aimed to move it to safer grounds. Jerry Samaniego (el presidente) learned the art of taking “a Frank,” which is taking off a shot or two. Dr. Pat McGrath won money all four times when he played golf. Ken Schuster again earned his nickname as “the Quiet Man.” Missing in action was Tom Ross, Jim McCarthy, Steve Bauchman and Larry Cima, although the other 23 lads continued the POG shenanigans reputation. I am moving into the city of Boston, so my address is changing once again. The Needham suburbs are lovely, but monitoring the squirrels outside the window became repetitive. Kindly continue to share your news. — Dede Lohle Simon; 160 Commonwealth Ave., Unit 417, Boston MA 02116; dedersimon@gmail.com

 

74MBA Another Summer Vacation

I hope everyone is enjoying their summers with family and friends. Drop me a line or give me a call to let your classmates know how you are enjoying your retirement years. — Jack Burnett; 19248 Glen Eagles Drive, Livonia MI 48152; 734-464-3458; jburnet1@sbcglobal.net

 

74JD RIP Jim, Chuck, Frank

Three of our classmates have passed away: Jim Symons (May), Chuck Chritton (April) and Frank Berkemeier (July). Jim graduated from Petaluma High School in CA and San Jose U. After law school Jim focused on accounting and tax law with the SEC, Coopers & Lybrand, Arthur Andersen and Bechtel Engineering. In 2006 he opened Symons Law concentrating on estate and tax planning. He enjoyed tennis, water skiing, scuba diving and world travel. Jim is survived by his wife, Sue, their three children and two great-grandchildren. Chuck was born in New Ulm MN. After high school he joined the Marines, served in Thailand and achieved the rank of lance corporal. He attended the U of Wisconsin at La Crosse. After graduating summa cum laude he reenlisted in the Marines, attended OCS and received the Honor Graduate Award and was awarded. Chuck served in Vietnam, was awarded the Bronze Star and two Purple Hearts. He served as an OCS instructor at Quantico VA leaving the Marine Corps as a major. Chuck received a Kiley Scholarship to law school, and lived on campus with his wife, Claudia, and son, Michael. He was managing editor of the Law Review and graduated cum laude. Chuck practiced in Milwaukee before joining a firm in Lakeland FL, which became Wendel, Chritton & Parks, specializing in wills, probate, real estate and corporate law. Chuck was the attorney for the City of St. Leo FL, a member of his parish council and on the board of his local Catholic high school. Chuck is survived by Claudia and their three children, six grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Frank was born in Jackson MI and graduated from St. Mary Star of the Sea High School and the U of Dayton before serving with the Army in Germany en route to law school. After graduation Frank worked with Consumers Power Company focusing on state, federal and international energy policy, specializing in oil and gas land-use contracts. Frank and his wife, Janet, were married at the Basilica of the Sacred Heart on campus. Outside of work Frank supported local real estate, locally owned businesses and Catholic education with his time, talent and treasure. He committed himself to civic and charitable endeavors, including the Exchange Club of Jackson, Birthline and the Knights of Columbus, while also engaging in pro bono legal work. Frank was particularly committed to visiting the sick, burying the dead and comforting those in mourning. Proud of his Polish heritage, he studied the Polish language under his aunt, a Felician sister at Madonna College, and became the family chief correspondent with relatives in Poland. He also was an activist with the Polish Solidarity movement, and he farmed a plot of land near Berry Lake. Frank is survived by Janet and their six children and 10 grandchildren. On a happier note, Kim and Tom Lordan had a chance to dine with Roberta Halladay, Anne and Noel Augustyn, and Leanne (SMC) and Jim Boland in Bethesda MD to celebrate Tom getting his Ph.D. in political philosophy from Catholic U last spring, coincidentally 51 years to the day of our Law School graduation. Tom is an attorney with a nonprofit organization that represents victims of crime. He will be teaching American Political Thought at the School of Civic and Economic Thought at Arizona State U. Farewell and best of luck to Tammye Raster ’88SMC, ’92JD. Tammye, ND Law alumni program manager, helped us tremendously with our 50th Reunion. She is moving on to the Pulte Family Charitable Foundation. Be well and take care. — Joe O’Reilly; cell 502-649-6955; joe.oreilly34@icloud.com

 

75 Setting a Record

We broke an attendance record for 50-year reunions back in June when 452 of our classmates attended the gathering. We beat the old record, set by 1974. Great weather, food and friends, plus a packed schedule of tours, seminars and social hours, meant a really good time. University President Rev. Robert Dowd, CSC, ’87 took part in our Golden Domers Club induction ceremony on the Saturday of Reunion. While welcoming the Class back to campus, the officers announced that $75 million has been pledged by our generous classmates in the past five years. Way to go! We also made a Class gift to the Hesburgh Women of Impact Scholarship fund in the amount of $60,000. Thanks for your kindness and loyalty! Jeanne Murphy is now class president, with Pat Lally stepping down after having served as an officer for 15 years. He thanks everyone for their support and wise counsel over the years. Mark Keown is replacing Howard Stierwalt as vice president, Jack Malone continues as treasurer, and Norm Bower is still secretary. BTW, Norm appreciates the positive feedback regarding the poem he wrote for our class and delivered during the Class dinner. It captured academics, sports, social activities, dorm life, swim tests, receding hairlines and Father Ted. You can email Norm at the address below and get a copy of “Fifty Years Since We Started.” Overall, the reviews for the reunion were very favorable. Our generous class chipped in for evening menu upgrades, including a casual reception on Thursday in the JACC Monogram Room, then a surf-and-turf feast for the Class dinner in the luxurious Dahnke Ballroom (overlooking ND Stadium) on Friday, and a deluxe buffet on Saturday. Classmate Jaime Eduardo Alemán Healy is a Panamanian lawyer, businessman and diplomat. He served as Panama’s ambassador to the United States from August 2009 to January 2011. Now he is famous for his pursuit of the ultimate travel “grand slam,” having visited all 193 United Nations member states, both polar extremes and a suborbital spaceflight with Blue Origin in July this year. His Angers school mates watched the launch and Jaime’s remarks upon return to Earth. Sad to report the passing of Tim Currier of Troy MI and Glenview IL. He died July 23 and is survived by wife Ellen and four children, following a long career in municipal law. Please continue to send me your news. Thanks! — Norm Bower; 3946 Fernwood Ave., Davenport IA 52807; 563-349-0469; normbower53@gmail.com

 

75JD Autumn Notes

A Good Time Was Had by All was the title of a book of poems by a Miss Stevie Smith published in 1937. An overused phrase, to be sure, but it perfectly captures our “golden” gathering during Reunion Weekend 2025. Nineteen members of our class along with guests participated in one or more of the events over the three-day gathering. Many thanks to Tammye Raster ’88SMC, ’92JD, the Law Alumni program manager, for her assistance and guidance. Joining us from the left coast were Hannah Callaghan and Bob Weaver from OR, Carol and Paul Fortino from WA, and Dennis Mulshine from CA. Chris Guidroz made the trek from New Orleans, stopping in Chicago to visit Kathy and Steve Botsford. Steve has always been our “larger than life” classmate, but he is facing significant health issues; please keep him in your prayers. Also coming up from the south was Bruce Bower who calls TX home. Marta and Arturo Estrada joined us from their home in VA. In view of Arturo’s long career at the Internal Revenue Service, I could suggest that their trip to South Bend was a taxing journey, but cheap puns are beneath me. It was wonderful catching up with Fred Bernardi if only for a short time; he rotates his time between Chicago and FL. Bill Grimmer, a seasoned former prosecutor and adjunct professor at the law school, made an appearance as well. Gene Smary joined us from his home in Grand Rapids; many years back, he also taught a class at the law school. Tom Pollihan drove out from St. Louis. For Mary Ellen (Pelling) Hulce, this was her first trip to campus since graduation; these days, she has a part-time law practice in Geneva IL and a homestead that she and her husband, Steve, created in the rustic hills of CT. Sandy and John Lynch made the trip from the Scottsdale area where they spend the bulk of their time. Lisa and Bob Billmeier traveled from NJ, and Mary (Sommer) Sandak came from CT. Both are retired judges, along with Jeanne Jourdan, who caught up with us from her home in neighboring Cassopolis MI. Karen and I came from the shortest distance — a scant five minutes away even in heavy South Bend traffic. By the time you read this, Ken Klatt will be sporting a new knee. Ken and Kathy came up from Atlanta to join the group and, at the time of our get-together, Ken was looking forward to knee replacement surgery and rehab just weeks away. If you or a loved one have not gone through that surgery, you are among the lucky few. Quite frankly, if you have not invested in one or more of the orthopedic companies that manufacture implants, you are missing out on a capital gains bonanza; the elderly, particularly in my household, gobble up implants the way little kids gobble up Cheerios. Our Reunion weekend began on Thursday evening when we met up at O’Rourke’s Public House in Eddy Street Commons; this was a meeting spot during our 2015 reunion, and the redux was just as nice. On Friday evening, the crowd moved to Sunny Italy, a family business that will celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2026; the restaurant is now in the very capable hands of one of my high school classmates. Our law class and guests were treated to an avalanche of fine foods and wines over several hours. It was great to have Charisse and Tom McGill join us for the Sunny Italy feast; like many, they are spoiling grandchildren around the clock. On Saturday morning, Jeanne Jourdan hosted a lavish brunch at her place at Diamond Lake. In the absence of Rev. Bill Beauchamp, CSC, who had a prior commitment in Boston, the Saturday afternoon Mass at the law school was celebrated by Rev. Greg Haake, CSC, ’99, ’06MDiv for our Class and the law Class of 1980. In a poignant moment, the lists of those who have passed were read by Chris Guidroz and Joseph Dunn ’80JD. Following the Mass, the law classes of 1975 and 1980 joined up in Eck Commons for a festive dinner. Among the participants from the other group were Elizabeth Short ’76JD, ’79MA, ’82Ph.D., the sister of our Brian Short, and Jane Farrell ’80JD, an early recipient of a Lardy scholarship award named after our classmate Peter Lardy. Stay healthy, everyone, and maybe we can do it again in 2030 or sooner. — Frederick Giel; fggiel@gmail.com

 

76 The Spirit of ’76

We have a theme, a logo and a new class song, Golden Legacy. Now all we need is you! We encourage all loyal sons and daughters of Notre Dame’s Class of ’76 to attend our 50th Reunion, June 4 - 7, 2026. The official theme of the reunion is The Spirit of ’76 — Our Golden Legacy. Your class officers, Debi Dell, Mark Nishan, Steve Klug and I, are serving as the 50th Reunion Executive Committee. I am also serving as the Reunion Giving Chair. Shelley Muller Simon is our Reunion Attendance Chair, John Carrico is our Golf Outing Chair and Sally Naxera Benson is our Mass Chair. Lynda and Pat Sarb are co-chairs of the Our Lady’s Butterfly Garden Expansion and Enhancement Project. In a way, our Reunion logo is itself a “legacy” project: It was designed by Pat and Lynda’s daughter Stephanie Sarb! If you are interested in volunteering or have suggestions for Reunion, please reach out to the Class officers and/or the respective committee chairs. We update our Class website at 1976.undclass.org regularly, so check there frequently for up-to-date information about our 50th Reunion, how to book hotels or dorm accommodations, ways to connect with your classmates and more. Great news for Notre Dame’s butterflies! As part of the butterfly garden project, additional boulders and a new bench are now in place, and a new, larger bronze plaque identifying the site as Our Lady’s Butterfly Garden has replaced the original small bronze plaque. The bronze plaque affixed to the new bench reads: The Class of 1976, ND’s First Coed Freshman Class, Honors all her loyal sons and daughters. We’re Glad You’re Here. This project, our 50th Reunion gift to the Notre Dame family, is our way of demonstrating The Spirit of ’76 and reinforcing Our Golden Legacy as well as creating a beautiful and meaningful location for photos during our reunion. Happy wedding news! Mary Anne Kennedy Reilly and Raymond T. Hyer were married May 25 at St. Brendan’s Catholic Church in Clearwater Beach FL. Mary Anne and Raymond met years earlier at a luncheon cruise for benefactors of Notre Dame. They were reintroduced by their mutual Notre Dame fundraiser after the deaths of their spouses. A Class of 1976 micro-reunion happened by chance in July when, unbeknownst to each other, several classmates and their spouses booked a Notre Dame Alumni Association Traveling Irish trip to Denali National Park. Becky and Terry Bowen, Betsy (Kall) and Peter Brosnan, Barbara ’78SMC and Matt Cockrell, Nancy and Ernie Ferro, and Tom Gibbons met up in Fairbanks and rode the rails together on the historic Alaska Railroad to the park and continued the journey to Anchorage by motor coach. Hopefully this merry band of Traveling Irish made a pact to see each other again at our 50th Reunion. Retirement news! Peter Rukavina lives in Lake Forest IL and just retired from his company Rukavina Trade Consultants after a good run of 29 years. Pete stays in touch regularly with Jim Niquette, Bobby Walls, Ted Koch, Jim Cripe, Joe Schmitz and Mark Storer. Pete says he will “definitely make the 50th Reunion (God willing).” Jim Niquette ended 13 years of service with the Carter Center on June 30. He lived in Liberia, Nigeria, Ghana and South Sudan for 23 years total and continues to raise money for water, sanitation and plastics recycling via his own nonprofit. Peter (Craig) Withers retired as vice president of overseas operations after 37 years with the Carter Center. He oversaw operations in offices in 18 countries and the safety of more than 3,500 overseas staff. He and his wife, Vicki, raised two daughters and lived in Nigeria, Burkina Faso and Sudan before settling in Atlanta. On a sadder note, our classmate Jim Trant passed away in May after long-term health struggles stemming from his 2011 cancer diagnosis. Finally, our Fall Mini-Reunion, held the weekend of the Purdue game, occurred after the deadline for this column. We’ll share more details in the next Class Notes. Meanwhile, check out our Class Facebook group for photos! Let me close with this thought. Because of COVID, we didn’t get a chance to celebrate our 45th Reunion, so our gathering next June will be our first full Reunion in 10 years! Let’s make it unforgettable. May The Spirit of ’76 guide you home — to the Golden Dome — for our 50th Reunion! — Bob Quakenbush; 3611 Wellington Ridge Loop, Cary NC 27518; 574-323-4423; quakend76@gmail.com

 

76JD Walking the Camino

As you probably know, each year the Notre Dame Alumni Association sponsors many Traveling Irish excursions around the world. In 2024, one of those trips included walking the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage in northwest Spain, from Sarria to Santiago de Compostela, where it is believed the remains of St. James the Apostle are interred. It is a 100-kilometer (c.70-mile) walk over six days. Each night there was a special Mass for the pilgrims arriving in the particular town that day. The Camino wound through incredible landscapes and ancient villages. My wife and I were blessed to have participated in that adventure. We loved the experience so much that at the end of August we are walking the complete Camino Frances, which starts in the town of Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port in southern France, just north of the Pyrenees mountains, winding its way for 492 miles to Santiago de Compostela. Gluttons for punishment we are! As class secretary, please let me hear from you regarding your professional and personal achievements, experiences, etc., that I can share with our classmates. Please note my new address. — Virgil L. Roth; 51 Tammany Road, Upper Black Eddy PA 18972; 626-260-2223; fax 626-441-1166; vroth@vlrlaw.com

 

77 On 70

Sharon (Carr) and Dan Winnike ’75 were surprised at 8 a.m. Easter Mass in Menlo Park CA to see Rev. John Jenkins, CSC, ’76, ’78MA University president emeritus, process up the aisle and concelebrate with one of the parish priests, and learned that Father Jenkins was in Berkeley CA and invited to the Church of the Nativity by Rev. Michael Thomas, CSC, a Holy Cross priest currently living at Nativity while earning a Ph.D. at Stanford U. The Winnikes were also delighted on April 12 to welcome their fourth grandchild, Margot Blaire Winnike, on April 12, daughter of Maddie and Danny Winnike Jr. ’14. John Gelson shares that he is “retiring as general counsel at Jersey Mike’s after 15 years to the warmth of Tampa FL in the winter and Sea Girt NJ in the summer. I will continue to teach at Ave Maria Law School in Naples FL.” John spent time with Kevin Kelly and Tim Cawley in FL this past winter. As former general counsel at Jersey Mike’s, John continues to work in arbitration and mediation at NJ Mediator Resolution Services LLC. John included a June 12 Law.com article titled “Ex-Prison Guard Who Became Jersey Mike’s GC Returns to Mediation Roots After $8B Blackstone Sale.” Marvin Russell announced that “Marv Russell (FB Monogram: ’73-’77) and Catherine (Falkenberg) Russell celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Oct. 23. Marv and Catherine are the longest, undergraduate married couple in Notre Dame history. Even more interesting, Marv and Catherine shattered social norms of the time as a biracial (Black and White) couple and a mixed religious couple with Catherine growing up Catholic and Marv Methodist. They were married in the Log Chapel on Thursday morning, two days before ND lost at home to USC.” Clemson U Sports Information Director (1978-2018) Timothy Bourret was inducted into the Clemson Athletic Hall of Fame Class of 2025 last spring. Marybeth Ward Brown and Marty Brown celebrated their 70th birthdays on a cruise from Venice to Istanbul. “While the scenery was wonderful, visiting Mary’s house in Ephesus and seeing rosaries left by Popes JPII, Benedict XVI and Francis (just three days before he passed away) was a highlight. A couple weeks after arriving back home in Carlsbad CA we headed to Raleigh NC for the birth of our sixth grandchild, Bernadette Howell. We are blessed!” Peg Hornback Culhane shared that some BP besties had a reunion in Laguna Beach CA in May: Peg, Mary O’Meara Lee and Larry Lee, Bev O’Connell Ashendon, Kathy Walker Beenen, Sue Allen Dalton, Sharon Carr Winnike, Bridget O’Donnell, Debbie Grady, Louise Karas Hayden and Beth Lavins Fitzgerald. In June, Peg shared that “we were fortunate to have another ND reunion hosted by Maureen and Bill Sammon ’78 in Beverly Shores … A lovely time!” Louise Karas Hayden and Tom Hayden, Mike Miller, Peg Hornback Culhane and Mike Culhane, Beth and Greg Trzupek ’78, and Carole and Tim Cawley attended. The Flanner 7A group gathering at Phil Volpe’s Manitou Springs CO home at the end of June included Phil, Chip Brink, Al Caccavale, Mike Schuff, Mike Carini, Al Bucci, Shane Carew and Joe Donahue. Dom Fanuele writes that the 2025 Angelo Bertelli Memorial Golf Classic Committee Chairman Kevin Murphy “has done an amazing job of getting our North Jersey Golf Outing back on track post-COVID. We’ve raised over $25,000 in scholarship funds for local students in the past two years. The committee [includes] ’77 classmates Mike Pesce, Buzz Reynolds and me.” Chris Mahon writes to say his book of short stories, A Year with Charlie Fine, is available on Amazon. The book imagines one year in the life of a public high school teacher in Los Angeles and explores themes related not only to education, but also to spirituality, friendship, justice and mortality. Author James King’s poem “Early Riser” is included in the summer issue of New Feathers Anthology. Congratulations to Dick Mattie and family on the April wedding of his daughter Katie Mattie ’14 to Josh Fisher; and to Kathy (DePauw) and Jerry Graham on the wedding of their daughter Katie and son-in-law Mike, in Chicago. Happy new grandbaby congrats to Trish ’77SMC and Peter Sweeney on the birth of their sixth grandchild, Henry Peter, son of their daughter Mary Clare and husband Doug; and to Sharon and Jeff Vitter, who welcomed new grandson Jeffrey Scott “Scotty” Vitter III, son of Lindsay ’10 and Capt. Scott Vitter ’10 and new baby brother to big sister Josie. Our deepest condolences go out to the family of Thomas Digan, who passed away in May after a short illness, survived by his partner Pam Oesch, children Kaitlin (Michael) Hakimi, Tom Digan, Grace (Nick) Manley, and Casey (Shirah Billups) Digan, and beloved grandchildren. — Virginia McGowan Bishop; classof1977@alumni.nd.edu

 

77JD Another Sad Loss

Frank Julian ’82JD, a close friend of Ann and Mike Braun, shared the very sad news of the passing of Ann and Mike’s son Matthew in May. Matt most recently served as director and assistant professor at St. Louis U Law School. Matt was passionate about law librarianship, and previous posts include the Law Library of Congress. A poignant note in his obituary was, “His keen ability to find his way wherever he went … left all in awe and assured friends and family that he would always find his way home.” Our thoughts and prayers for peace are with Mike and Ann. Linda Olivieri and Bill Chenoweth spent two joyful weeks in Sitka AK for their daughter Ellen’s wedding. The time was filled with both Catholic and Hindu traditions and customs and with many blessings for the happy couple and for their families. In May, Larry and I spent a wonderful week in Paris. A highlight, of course, was seeing the restored Notre Dame Cathedral. Another was a walking/tasting tour of Montmartre where my father found himself on VE Day. NROTC classmates of my brother Joe Becker ’70 kindly invited my siblings and me to join them for several gatherings at their 55th Reunion. We had a wonderful chance to speak with so many of Joe’s classmates and their spouses at a dinner, at a ROTC picnic, and at a veterans’ memorial service in front of the Golden Dome where they reserved gold star seats for us. Reconnecting after 50 years has been quite a blessing. — Janey Bennett; 50850 Tarrington Way, Granger IN 46530; 574-298-9251; res 574-383-5745; jane1977nd@outlook.com

 

78 Back on Campus

Greetings fellow members of the class with class! I hope you all had a wonderful summer and are ready for some football, Fighting Irish style! Remember to let me know about your visits to campus this fall. Those Walsh Hall women stick together! Kathy (Brennan) Thomsen, Ann Combs, Pat Dermody, Lorraine (Ehrline) Sedlacek and Lyssa (O’Neill) MacCaughey celebrated the Fourth of July at Mary Ellen Scalera’s home in Mantoloking NJ. Danny Romano, the host of Chicago, sent some news from Rev. Ed Shea, OFM. Franciscan Outreach in Chicago, a leading provider of services for people experiencing homelessness, will be honoring Joan Mostardi Villim and her husband, Pete, with the prestigious Father Phil Marquard Award at their annual gala in September. Joan and Pete did the 100-mile Camino pilgrimage in Spain, with Danny in May. Our own renaissance man, Jack Sacco, was in the studio for HarperCollins, recording the audio version of his bestseller, Where The Birds Never Sing. It’s set for a nationwide release on Veterans Day, Nov. 11. Also, the world premiere of Jack’s new symphony, The Victorious, will be at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts in West Palm Beach FL in March 2026. Attending the ND/Pitt game during the 2024 season were Alicia Denefe and Kathy Kane (assigned to be roommates freshman year and still friends 50 years later!). They enjoyed their “tailgater” in the Monogram Club, into which Kathy was inducted for her participation in varsity field hockey. Thanks to Notre Dame for recognizing the athletes prior to Title IX. Alicia enjoyed her time on campus with all the pop-up photo ops, and the mosaic at the Hesburgh Library that celebrates women and female athletes. Don Cozzilino is on the board of the Elistrong Foundation, which raises money to support families, struggling financially, that have children fighting pediatric cancer. The money they raise goes to pay for things that are not covered by insurance such as lost wages/income, travel costs to be with the child during treatments, etc. Paul Coppola received the game ball from the Gerry Faust-coached Notre Dame team’s victory over Penn State in 1984. It was a gift to Paul from the Faust family. Nace Mullen hosted his annual seashore gathering in July. Sharing the sea air and the ocean waves were Vicki Lopez, who is representing her district in FL’s House very nicely; Don “Butterman” Smail, who is buttering up all he meets; Jim “Boobie” Clarke, who shared his affinity for Pennsylvania Dutch birch beer — at breakfast; Greg “Sweets” Switaj, still a master on the golf course, and of protein shakes; and Jim “Souls” Coyne, who led a solemn tour of North Wildwood night spots. An update on our Class of 1978 scholarship, as we honor the memory of Jimmy Martin: We want to provide future generations with the same opportunity we were all so very lucky to experience. A matching fund has been established. To donate, visit giving.nd.edu, enter your donation amount, type 1978 in the Designation field, and select Class of 1978 Scholarship. Consider supplementing current gifting plans (Sorin Society, football lottery) and life insurance policies. Every gift, in any amount, is important. The fund has raised in excess of $350,000 to date! This is great news, but it doesn’t mean we stop! After all, we are the class with class! Please keep in touch to keep all informed. Love one another! If you already do, do it harder! God knows we need it! Go Irish! — Jim “Souls” Coyne; 1801 Butler Pike, Apt. 20, Conshohocken PA 19428; 267-847-8808; jcoyne@cohs.com

 

79 Grandchildren

In March, Chris (Twist) and Andy Burke and Ann and John Calcutt welcomed mutual granddaughter Maeve, whose parents are their children Molly Burke ’15 and Brian Calcutt ’15. Maeve is the Calcutts’ 10th grandchild. Jane and Jerry Perez welcomed grandson Laurence, son of Natalie Perez ’14 and Terry Howard ’13. Elisa and Russ Blackwell celebrated 46 years of marriage. They moved to the Dallas area a couple of years ago after alternating between Orlando and Dallas, where three of their five children and 14 of their 17 grandchildren live. Their oldest, Kim (Blackwell) Lawler ’02, and her husband, Mike, have five boys; Theresa (Blackwell) Mason ’04 and her husband, Justin, have a boy and two girls; Chris and his wife, Stef, have three girls and three boys; Hillary and Michael ’07 have three boys and live outside of Bloomington IL; and Amanda ’09SMC, who has a Ph.D., lives in Guatemala when she is not serving as an adjunct professor at several US colleges and traveling the world giving seminars and evaluations on autism and augmentative communication. She has walked the Camino de Santiago four times. Russ retired for the second time last year and, in addition to spending time with their grandchildren, he and his wife enjoy traveling, having visited seven continents, 50 states and 79 countries. Dr. Barbara Ward still gets together with former Lewis residents Maureen (Sampson) Miller, Maureen O’Brien Ph.D., Margaret Simkofsky, Gail Spiridigliozzi and Joan McLaughlin. Remember Tom “Moose” Ferenc and his family. Tom died in May in the Detroit area. At ND, he earned four varsity letters in shot put. After graduation, he worked as a CPA before starting a sports trading card business. After 20 years, he closed that business and went back to accounting. He was active with the Knights of Columbus and Ss Cyril Methodius Slovak Church in Sterling Heights MI. I look forward to your news, even if it doesn’t involve grandchildren. — Barbara A. Langhenry; res 216-651-8962; cell 216-509-8962; breclw@aol.com