1960s

60 Always Good to Hear from Classmates
A huge thank-you and much appreciation for many classmates who sent cards, Masses, prayers and condolences since Colleen passed away Aug. 17. Also appreciated are the many phone calls I received from many of you. Your support and prayers are “priceless.” I think I am doing better these days (October). I’m staying busy with golf two or three days per week and lots of eating out with friends. An interesting history of ND life from George Goodwine: “I don’t consider myself a good student at ND. There was no program that interested me and I was not mature enough to be a good student for the sake of being a good student. Also, ND used mostly grad students to teach freshman liberal arts. Some of them wanted to make an impression by flunking a substantial number of the class. I’ve told some stories on that. But I didn’t try to go to med school on my record. The Navy gave me the best education. But I was very interested and it was hands-on. Later I took up the liberal arts I ignored at ND. I think anyone who is a serious reader is well-educated as they go through life. I probably would have become more interested if there were a course concentrating on the classics taught by an interested full professor. I always had trouble with math because of the nut job that taught it at Gilmour — I just could not connect the dots until I was taking Aerodynamics for Naval Aviators. They went from basic algebra to the edge of calculus in six weeks, but I was very interested in Aero as applied to airplanes. On the whole, I would have been better off if I took a couple of years off doing some hard time in the Merchant Marine as an able-bodied seaman before going to college. I would have appreciated my education more, assuming I survived and didn’t use up the nine lives God gave me.” From Richard Krachun: “Richard (Juliani, who died Feb. 20) was one of the first people I met at ND, both of us on the third floor of St. Ed’s. He was also from NJ and attended Camden Catholic. I went to St. Peter’s in New Brunswick. We beat them in our final basketball tournament and we were both at the same game. He was a BB player and I was not, remember playing against him behind the bookstore. We shared a few emails last year, always had positive comments, another great guy lost.” A note from Ed Bukowski on medical testing: “It was a bit odd. Before starting the stress test, my blood pressure was 110/78. The nurse hooked up the EKG leads and injected the drug into the IV port. The EKG apparently was OK, and afterwards my BP was 109/76! We had to redo ultrasound/sonogram because I couldn’t suppress a cough. Regardless, there was nothing to get my cardiologist’s attention, and they let me walk out of the office on my own! First stop was a drive-thru for a large iced mocha! Thank the Lord! He’s done a much better job of looking after me than I have! In Vietnam, I was shot at on 22 different occasions — never hit! Stayed low, moved fast and prayed a lot to my guardian angel! Hope all’s well with you! Go Irish!” A note from Mike Shipman on how to decide spending time in FL: “Well, we decided we won’t be returning to FL in 2025. We left FL last April thinking that perhaps we would not return but it was 50/50. We both made lists for the good points and the bad points. What tipped the scales was a call from the doctor who monitors my pacemaker. He informed me that I had an ‘atrial flutter,’ which is a type of heart rhythm disorder (arrhythmia) caused by problems in the heart’s electrical system. In atrial flutter, the heart’s upper chambers (atria) beat too quickly. This causes the heart to beat in a fast, but usually regular, rhythm. It is similar to atrial fibrillation (AFib), except that it is less organized. The disorder can increase the risk of stroke, thus the (expensive) blood thinner, Eliquis. So, it seems best that we forgo FL.” Drop me a note with short stories! Thanks. — Joseph F. Jansen; 317-514-4478; jfjansen38@gmail.com

61 Season’s Greetings
Season’s greetings to my fellow Domers. Jim Cadelli checked in from Fort Smith AK. After having owned and operated an Indian restaurant for 47 years, Jim and his family are now enjoying the fruits of Jim’s labors as they prepare to take a journey around the world. Safe travels, Jim. Pat Galvin wrote to inform me of the untimely passing of our classmate Mark Thompson, who was struck and killed by a motorcycle this past summer while vacationing in Mexico City with his wife. Our deepest condolences are extended to his family. Bill Hawley also added his thoughts on Mark’s passing, noting that Mark realized an exemplary career, having been a professor emeritus at the U of British Columbia’s Sauder School of Business. Mark was featured in our alumni magazine in 2018 when he was appointed to the Order of Canada in recognition of his service to Canada’s labor management relations and public policy. Mark was a prolific advocate for the rights of union workers. Bill Hall is now my new neighbor. He recently moved to nearby Anastasia Island FL where he is safely ensconced after a career which took him all over the world. Following four years as an Air Force pilot, Bill embarked on a career in the hospitality industry. He served for 38 years with Hilton Hotels, culminating in his appointment as general manager of the Houston Hilton in 1998. Following his retirement, Bill and his wife, Vivian, traveled the Caribbean seas, compiling an encyclopedia’s worth of memories. The Marine Corps triumvirate of Bill Welch, Dick Lauber and Nick Ferlazzo reunited in MD to celebrate the 63rd anniversary of their entry into the officer candidate course program, waxing nostalgic and reminiscing over their initiation days at the training base in Quantico VA. The Garden State threesome of Jim Daugherty, Danny Lyons and Frank Ditchey gathered for a summer weekend reunion on their local NJ links for three days of golf and fellowship. We wish to hear from the following baker’s dozen classmates so we can include their whereabouts and activities in the spring issue of Notre Dame Magazine: Ernie Zavodnyik, Dave Wenlage, Dave Thomas, John Showel, Tom Lynch, Denis Retoski, Mark Kilduff, Fred Jenkins, Bob Ganger, Lou Ferrari, Mike Esposito, Frank Dinger and Charlie Cayce. In memoriam: Bill Soule, Jim Madden, Al Salving and Jim Martin. Our classmate Ronald Pakutka passed away Oct. 15 in Binghamton NY. Ron played for the Fighting Irish on a four-year football scholarship, until an ankle injury cut his playing days short. He graduated with an accounting degree and spent 37 years in the business world. We have upcoming reunions that we’d love to have you attend. Our annual St. Patrick’s Day reunion is March 14 in Naples, FL. Email fannesend1961@gmail.com if you plan to attend. We are also celebrating our 65th reunion at Notre Dame from June 4 - 7. Visit reunion.nd.edu to learn more and register for the on campus reunion. — Arnold Leporati Jr.; 463 Tarrasa Drive, Jacksonville FL 32225; 904-703-4366; arnielep@yahoo.com

61JD Class Secretary — John N. Moreland;

jnmnd1958@aol.com

62 Accident Prone
Al Smith was in Navy ROTC and after graduation served two years on the USS Sullivans out of Newport RI. “We spent most of our time on the blockade of Cuba.” After discharge, he went into banking. Five years were with Chemical Bank in NY and the rest in Indianapolis. After 60 years he retired in 2023 from JPMorgan where he was chairman, JP Morgan Chase Indiana. Al added that he and Maribeth “just celebrated our 61st wedding anniversary. We have two sons, both of whom graduated from ND, and a daughter from Saint Mary’s. Five of our nine grandchildren graduated from ND.” Jim Higgins took his family to Maui in July: “a beautiful place which everyone enjoyed.” However, a few days after arrival, Jim attempted to make an ascent of the dormant volcano Mount Haleakala. About three minutes into the climb, Jim tripped on a tree root “(they are everywhere, as are boulders).” He then pivoted, and fell on his chest and “heard a large crack, which turned out to be the sound of five ribs breaking. I spent the next two days in the hospital and the rest of the trip just taking it easy.” Jim felt the fall was his fault since he had not recently played tennis, or done much in the gym, and concluded by saying, “If I had been in better shape, perhaps I could have held myself up after initially tripping. I then spent about five more weeks of sedentary existence. Unfortunately, I will never have a pleasant memory of Hawai’i.” Another having an “unfortunate incident” was Mike Marchildon, who said he recently made a very stupid “mistake” — thinking he could walk across a parking lot to his car “without being blasted by an SUV.” Unfortunately, he “was taken out in broad daylight, breaking my left leg in three places.” Mike had to have surgery, “including a vena cava filter to keep blood clots in my legs from passing to my lungs and killing me.” He spent weeks as a physical therapy inpatient, then more weeks in a wheelchair and walker, “but now have returned to the vertical world” and plans to get back to “hacking a golf ball around the course soon.” Mike says there was one interesting but nonpolitical outcome. The driver claimed she had stopped completely and that Mike jumped on her car, causing him to break his leg. “I became a fan of Tesla because one was parked near the accident. Police downloaded its camera, which recorded the whole accident showing that she hit me. I now love Elon Musk!” Hal Schaefgen, who lives in NC, was on campus the Purdue weekend for a small family reunion celebrating “a developing ND legacy.” His son Brian is a ’91 Domer, while grandson Brady just started his freshman year in the Mendoza College of Business Honors Program. Brian’s wife, Jacquie, is a ’92 Domer. We lost another 11 members of the class. Ivan A. Gradisar Jr. MD passed away on Sept. 2. He was an orthopaedic surgeon who built an orthopaedic center of excellence in Northeast OH, designed one of the first-ever total knees, and traveled the world showing surgeons how to implant the device. He is father of Ian Gradisar MD ’96 and his grandson, Ivan G. Gradisar, hopes to attend ND in the fall. In May, John J. Davis died on the 4th and John Hurley on the 31st. In June, Ray Durand died on the 15th and Larry Soletti on the 30th. Frank Wagner passed away July 19 and Ed Larkin on the 28th. In August, Al Zangrilli died on the 13th and Geoff Flagstaff on the 28th. Henry Higgins died Sept. 11, Jim Mikacich on the 20th and Tom Weis on the 25th. — Raymond Raedy; 5310 Rileys Ridge Road, Hillsborough NC 27278; 919-967-8816; nd62secy@medicinemanremedies.com

62JD Rest in Peace, Thomas
Our classmate Thomas J. Kelly passed away peacefully Nov. 3, surrounded by family. From his obituary: “Born in Chicago, Tom was preceded in death by his cherished wife of 40 years, Gail Dina Kelly, who passed in 2002. He is survived by his devoted wife of 21 years, Marianne (Anderson) Kelly, who brought renewed joy and companionship into his later years. Tom was a proud and loving father to four children and one stepson, and enjoyed his seven grandchildren and three step-grandchildren. … Tom graduated from Fenwick High School in Oak Park and went on to attend the University of Notre Dame, where he earned both his bachelor’s degree in business and his law degree from Notre Dame Law School in just six years. His time at Notre Dame was deeply formative — he made lifelong friends, embraced campus life, and met Gail on his second day of freshman year. They married while he was still in law school, beginning a partnership rooted in love, faith and family. Tom’s legal career began at American National Bank and flourished at Pedersen & Houpt, where he served as a partner for 45 years. He was known not only for his legal acumen but also for his integrity, mentorship and dedication to helping others navigate complex business matters. He held numerous leadership roles and was a trusted advisor to colleagues and clients alike. Beyond his professional life, Tom was deeply committed to his community and faith. He served on various church committees and volunteered for several charitable organizations. He was a hands-on father, coaching his daughters’ Glenview soccer teams and participating in Indian Guides with his children. The family shared many joyful memories at their vacation home in Three Lakes WI, where Tom also enjoyed snowmobiling, boating and woodworking. Tom was a passionate Notre Dame football fan and took great pride in seeing three of his children attend his alma mater. He and Marianne continued to enjoy travel, time in the Northwoods and hosting family and friends. He also treasured the relationships he built with Marianne’s son, daughter-in-law, grandchildren and extended family. In recent years, Tom faced Lewy Body Dementia with courage and determination, remaining active and engaged through regular exercise and the support of loved ones. Tom will be remembered for his wisdom, warmth, humility, and unwavering devotion to his family and faith. His life was a testament to service, love, and resilience.” — Christine Stucko; christinestucko@gmail.com

63 Roommates
John Macleod says that following graduation, he served for two years on active duty as a US Army artillery officer, and one year with KPMG in San Francisco. He graduated from ND Law School in 1969 and joined Jones Day in Washington, becoming a partner in 1974. In 1979, John left with others to found Crowell & Moring, where he had an appellate litigation practice including argument before the US Supreme Court. He was chairman of the firm for a number of years, retiring in 2015. John has authored four books, including two murder mysteries (available on Amazon). John and his wife, Ann, have two children (Kerry ’91 and Jack ’96) and three grandchildren, and now live in VA’s Shenandoah Valley. John went on to say William “Bill” Vasu had passed away. John and Bill were roommates in Keenan and Lyons. Bill died June 21 in Greenwich CT of Parkinson’s, survived by his former wife, Linda, two daughters and two grandsons. Bill was a varsity swimmer while at ND and was also in US Army ROTC. After graduation he earned an MBA from NYU, after which he served in the US Army at Fort Hood TX. Bill worked at Salomon Brothers, Bear Stearns, Lehman Brothers, Morgan Stanley and BNP Paribas. Friends recall that Bill was “dashing, witty, vibrant and effortlessly cool.” John “Jack” Hogan died Aug. 8 in Perry ME. He was predeceased by his beloved wife of 36 years, Anne, and is survived by two sons and one grandchild. Jack was one of 10 siblings and part of a deeply connected faith-filled family. Following graduation, he served as an officer in the US Coast Guard. Jack’s subsequent career took him from Piedmont Airlines to GAR International, Hertz Equipment and the LoJack Corporation. Richard Easton has been married to his wife, Patricia, for 51 years and they have three children. Patricia is an author and educator, while Richard is now professor of English and emeritus founding director of Washington and Jefferson College’s Conflict and Resolution program. Richard has been teaching at W&J for over 53 years. Steve Peters died Oct. 2 in St. Petersburg FL, survived by his wife of 45 years, Rita, two children and a grandson. Following graduation, he earned a graduate degree from West Virginia U and then served as a captain in the US Army based in Germany and Fort Campbell KY. Steve spent 45 years as a broker and branch manager with Parker/Hunter and later as a board member. He was involved in the sale of the company to Janney Montgomery Scott, from which he retired as a senior vice president. 

Steve served as the chair of several community organizations, including as trustee of the Catholic Diocese of St. Petersburg. He was a Knight Grand Cross, which is the highest rank for a knight in the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem. The Alumni Office has advised of the passing of the following classmates: Thomas H. Mulhern Jr. died May 29 in Westport CN, and Albert J. Zangrilli Jr. died Aug. 10 in Pittsburgh, survived by his wife, Ursula. — John F. Dougherty Jr.; 915 Exeter Crest, Villanova PA 19085; 215-510-0844; johndoc969@gmail.com

63JD Class Notes Author Needed — This class is in search of a Class Notes author. If you would like to volunteer, please contact beth.thomas@nd.edu.

64 A Pleasant Catch-up
... over coffee with Synda and Terry Kollman during their recent trip to CT. After Leo Burnett and ABC-TV, Terry became an entrepreneur, ultimately launching the first national digital out-of-home media rep in NYC. He remains on a couple of boards and continues to raise funds for St. Jude Children’s, now in his 50th year. Gene Koster chatted with former Keenan roommate Jack Koltes, who has enjoyed a very successful career in financial services. After Citibank, Jack spent 40 years with Alliance Capital in NYC and Minneapolis. In the small-world category, Jack and I ran into one another in the Morris Inn a few weeks back, almost 40 years after our last face-to-face in an Edina grocery store. He looks only a little older. John Pagel writes that he and Rosemary just celebrated their 60th, further reporting they have now limited long-distance travel to visiting grandkids in universities across the South. I had a newsy exchange with Ron Talbot, whose wife, Roseanne, passed away eight years ago. They had six children, now with 14 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Ron sold computer systems in the very early days of commercial processing, then started two successful companies in the same general field before retiring. He received a Storyworth subscription for his 80th, and has now written 71 stories, including one on the ND years. Blasts from the past? Father Collins, bed check, morning check, dawn patrol and worse. A trip down memory lane, for sure. Ron and significant other Barbara live in Naples FL but also spend a few months each year at her home in Oaxaca, Mexico. I learned from John Bradley that Peter Grace passed peacefully from advanced Parkinson’s this summer. After working for W. R. Grace and spending decades in restaurant management in New York and Dallas, Peter retired to the coast of ME in 2009. With wife Marti, Peter enjoyed long walks, traveling abroad and preparing gourmet meals. He was predeceased by Marti, and is survived by his three children and four grandchildren. Jack McCabe shared the sad news that his old roommate, Bill Chapman, passed in TX in June. After Army service, Bill enjoyed his years of employment with Texaco and then as VP of HR for Huntsman Corporation. Through the years and multiple relocations, Bill and family immersed themselves in each community, becoming active in local organizations and especially sports. Bill is survived by Sally, his wife of 59 years, two daughters and six grandkids. Bob Sheridan of Missoula MT died in June. A finance major with a MT law degree, Bob was a successful trial lawyer for 30 years. Active in his community, he was also a highly respected high school basketball referee. Wife Kay, three children and six grandchildren survive. And Rocco Logiodice of Edmond OK passed in June as well. In the ’80s, Rocco started a manufacturing company which continues today, now in the second generation of family ownership. He and Marie raised three sons who survive, along with six grandkids. — Paul R. Charron; 44 Contentment Island Rd, Darien CT 06820; 917-860-5385; paul.richard.charron@gmail.com

64JD Class Notes Author Needed — This class is in search of a Class Notes author. If you would like to volunteer, please contact beth.thomas@nd.edu.

65 Army-Navy
As a deacon in his parish, Col. Doug Lovejoy had the privilege of officiating the marriage of his brother’s, Kevin ’81, daughter, an ND grad, to one of her ND classmates. Both are in Navy aviation. After the ceremony, Doug exchanged his liturgical garb for his formal Army uniform and joined his Army brothers to form the saber arch with the young Navy guys on the other side. Doug and his wife, Jean, live in the Navy city of Annapolis. Robert Dilenschneider’s new book, Repent: How to Change the World One Interaction at a Time, has been well received by the reviewers and is available at Barnes & Noble, Amazon and other booksellers. It reflects his concern about the decline of civility in our society and his belief in how to restore it. Jason Jansen ’98 wrote that his father, Joseph, started with our class, took a semester off and graduated with the Class of ’66. Joe served in the Air Force including time in Vietnam. Unfortunately, he died seven days before Jason was born. Jason hopes to learn more about his dad’s days at ND and would appreciate if those who knew Joe email him at jjanse9@hotmail.com. Juan Casassus Ph.D. has been distinguished by the government of Chile with the National Prize in Education for his work in the subject of education of the emotions. Juan has written several books and worked for UNESCO before retiring. Jim Burke’s wife, Cathy, wrote that Jim passed away in August in Cary NC. They were married 59 years and had two children, four grandchildren and four great-granddaughters. His son, Richard ’94, predeceased him. Jim was an EE major and worked for Quanta Technologies in Raleigh NC. He consulted with utilities all over the country and world. Jim was always taking courses on the computer, especially in quantum physics, but found time to fish and raise his many dogs. Jim Jennings wrote that Dave Pivec died last May in Baltimore from complications of dementia. After playing tight end at ND, he signed with the Toronto Argonauts and two years later played with the LA Rams (along with Jack Snow) for three years. Dave returned to Baltimore and established Pivec Advertising, now ’86 Advertising, which enabled him to purchase with his partner the franchise for the Baltimore Bayhawks, a professional lacrosse team. Dave and his wife of 50 years also owned a restaurant. In September Nick Rassas passed away at the U of Utah Medical Center. He was a first-team All-American safety and played for the Atlanta Falcons for two years, followed by six years with the Army. After earning his MBA at Loyola U, Nick began his investment banking career at First Chicago and eventually became senior VP at UBS in 2015. He loved the Tetons and built his dream home in Moose WY. He is survived by three children, including Todd ’98, and six grandchildren. Last June, Edwin Secord DDS died in Sarasota. He is survived by his wife, Carolyn. Kenneth Peirce’s wife sent a message of his passing on Aug. 30. Please keep them in your prayers. In July John Herman died in Stow OH. He is survived by his wife, Mirium, and son. Also in July, Joseph La Briola passed away in Dayton OH. He earned an MA in ’65 and a Ph.D. in ’72. That same month Peter Goyer Jr. died in Stevensville MI. He is survived by his wife, Christine, and Maraya ’89, Kathryn ’96 and Peter ’96. He was professor emeritus at Case Western Reserve Medical School. Amy Siddons Karr ’95 sent the sad news that her father William D. Siddons Jr. passed away on Aug. 18. Due to the size of graduating classes and the number of class columns, the length of all columns has been reduced, which may delay reporting some class news. — James P. Harnisch MD; 6759 West Mercer Way; Mercer Island WA 98040; jphnd65@hotmail.com

65JD Please Send Updates
I did not receive any updates this quarter but hoping to hear from you before the next deadline on January 18. Thank you! — John Donald O’Shea; irishplaywright1@gmail.com

66 Keep On Truckin
I’m writing this after attending the USC game with sons Chris and Connor, grandson (Thomas Rockne) and one future daughter-in-law. As always, returning “home” to ND was uplifting and the game’s outcome was positive. Similar to a gray October afternoon 60 years ago on which I lined up across from top-ranked USC, Ron Yary, Mike Garrett and crew. Ara had us ready and we prevailed 28 - 7! I hope the 60th reunion — June 4 - 7 — is on your radar screen! Visit reunion.nd.edu for more information. Barry Barth, of Hilton Head SC, related his and Barb’s visit for Texas A&M, connecting with Class Prez Cap Gagnon. Cap visited with Howard York, sharing memories of the late Corey Hart and now-retired ND pilot Pat Farrell, who flies his own plane around the Midwest. Cap emails with Jiggs McAuliffe and relates with former NBA exec John Spoelstra (who I visited with while he was GM of the then Buffalo NBA team, and father of Miami Heat Head Coach Eric). John Flatley and Rich Sauget are on Cap’s email chain and he connects with Regis Amann. I share current events email exchanges with Cap, Dean Planeaux and Jack Pavlic. Class webmaster Jack Gerken continues his stellar communication of all things ’66. He heard from Jerry Kapacinskas, retired near San Luis Obispo CA. JK was in banking before attending pharmacy school at U of Iowa and spending four decades doling out meds. I erred in not relating Dick Frey’s previous note about Chuck Nigro. DF lives in the Kansas City metro area about 20 minutes from CN, who has lost his sight and resides with spouse Carol and two dogs in Olathe KS. Both CN and DF plan to be at our 60th. Steve Gootee sent word from Montgomery IN, site of St. Peter’s Church, where Father Sorin served before heading north. SG earned two undergrad ND degrees (literature and aerospace engineering) and served in the Navy’s Senior Exec Service, heading one of the USN’s largest research and engineering centers before joining defense contractor SAIC, retiring as SVP. SG hails the men of Zahm Hall in 63-64 and of 2507 S. Michigan as great friends. Art Frigo, Larry Murchan and spouses attended the Boise State game. I met Dick Martiny at the October ND Club of MD golf outing, who saw Mike Rush at the October Bishop O’Connell HS reunion in Arlington VA. DM reminded that eight from the BOHS ’62 class attended ND. Four have passed — RIP Jim Ballard, Dan Morper, Bob Riviello and John Killian. Still with us in addition to DM and MR are Jim Hawkins in CA and Pat Lannon in CO. Two recent passings — Tom Kirlin in DC (Aug. 19) and Mike Krach in Paoli PA (Sept. 26). Joe Synan in Kingwood TX reports that after three decades in nuclear engineering, he now teaches painting. Terry Kiwala is general counsel for the Order of the Holy Sepulchre doing amazing work in war-torn Gaza. See more on the class website: 1966.undclass.org. The Pete Duranko Fund at ND is still accepting gifts! The least favorite aspect of this endeavor is reporting on the expanding ’66 necrology. The men who have transitioned to the next life thus far in ’25: Paul Ahr (March 27); Nick Aracic (March 21); Dave Delaney (June 12); Pat Donoghue (June 27); Joe Elias (July 8); Skip Engel (Feb. 26); L.T. Gartner (Feb. 28); Bill Hartman (June 8); Tom Kirlin (Aug. 19); Mike Krach (Sept. 26); Jude Lenahan (Jan. 25); Hugh O’Brien (Feb. 5); Nick Rassas (Sept. 1); Paul Sauer (June 28); Pete Thornton (June 24); Richard White-Smith (Feb. 7). — Tom Sullivan; 143 Villabrook Way, Baltimore MD 21212; cell 773-454-4343; t66sullynd@gmail.com

66JD Veterans Law Clinic
Some of you may have seen the Law School’s announcement that it has founded a new pro bono clinic to fill an essential niche to help veterans navigate the complicated application and appeals process for VA benefits. The clinic specializes in assisting veterans with difficult-to-process claims concerning disability benefits relating to issues like traumatic brain injury, post-traumatic stress and military sex trauma. The clinic pursues initial claims as well as appeals at regional benefit offices, Board of Veterans Appeals and Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims. While on campus for the ND/NC State weekend with our grandkids, I visited the Law School and met Caleb R. Stone, associate clinical professor of law and founding director of the clinic. He is a cum laude grad from William and Mary Law School and has prior experience in veterans’ clinics such as the one he has founded at ND. The clinic is already functioning and student interest and participation are high. Prof. Stone is very enthusiastic about its future and future growth beyond northern IN. He feels that the clinic demonstrates ND’s commitment to “God, Country and Notre Dame.” A fund with that name is already in existence. It’s a worthy recipient of contributions, especially from those of you who spent time in JAG. Additional information is available at veteranslawclinic@nd.edu and 574-631-6704. Bill Sanneman and Al McKenna tried to outdo each other just before the ND/Miami game. Al sent a picture of Bill sporting his “Catholics versus Convicts” shirt from yesteryear, and Al claimed he was wearing “The Shirt” for 2025. Neither effort resulted in an Irish victory. Send news, comments and/or money. — Scott Maxwell; 2781 Siena Lakes Circle, Unit 2444, Naples FL 34109; cell 215-920-0616; ndscotty@gmail.com

67 Remembering Pete
We lost Pete Tierney last fall in Boulder CO. Pete was born in Brooklyn and lived in Chicago, South Bend, Freeville NY and Frederick MD before settling in Boulder. After graduation he served in the Peace Corps in Saint Lucia where he helped revamp the country’s educational system. He went on to teach in many environments, earning a master’s degree in education. In 1994 Pete co-founded the alternative Long View High School in Lakewood CO. He will be remembered for many things including his athletic achievements — the Hawaiian Ironman at age 60, the JFK 50-miler and 43 uninterrupted years of the Bolder Boulder. He received the US Presidential Award for his work with youth employment programming and the CO distinguished teacher award. Dick Kinney writes from Boise ID mentioning he and wife Mary Lou attended the Boise State game where they toured the Naval ROTC building, noting all of the honorees including Al Coble, who was Dick’s Farley Hall roommate. Kevin McNevins let us know from Dallas that he meets John Cuellar monthly for lunch where he is buoyed by John’s ongoing enthusiasm. Kevin Kelly from Alexandria VA has noted with sadness that John Ronnau passed on in Portland OR in September. John was a physics major with Kevin and maintained a lifelong friendship with fellow physics major Steve Storch of Oak Ridge TN as well as Kevin. Denis McCusker retired back in his hometown of South Bend with his wife, Susan, about 10 years ago. Denis had a legal career in St. Louis and Susan a career with Pan Am Airlines. They visited Steve Northrop and Anton Finelli in ME last summer, which stimulated Anton to let us know he and his wife, Peg, met and married in Boston over 50 years ago where they raised two sons. Both are now retired, but Peg had a career in teacher training and Anton in environmental consulting and renewable energy production. Anton stays in contact with Jamie McKenna, Bob Bregenzer, Dan Murray and Rocco Vignola, who Anton has known since grammar school. Please write: — Bert R. Bondi; 1891 Curtis St., Unit 1502, Denver CO 80202; bertrbondi@gmail.com

67JD Still Productive
While I keep busy managing my medical appointments, Mike Seng is receiving the Justice John Paul Stevens Award from the Chicago Bar Association! The award recognizes IL attorneys who have demonstrated extraordinary integrity and service to the community throughout their careers. Mike continues as a law professor at the U of Illinois College of Law. Some people continue their productive lives while others simply take up space. Congratulations on the award to a colleague who continues to be productive! The Big News from Ball Ground GA is that after 30 years, Margaret and Jerry Berthold have sold their house and are moving to a retirement community near Portland OR. They have a daughter and numerous grandchildren nearby. Over the past many years, they have spent at least a month each year in the area spoiling the grandchildren, so they know the area well. Flo and Jim Heinhold can understand the desire of aging seniors to move closer to family. Our experience has been the same but in reverse. In the past five years, two of our children have moved from IL and VA to NC! And just last month, our daughter Laurel, having retired from her career as a registered nurse in OH, has bought a house and moved to our little town of New Bern NC! You know you’re old when you see your children retire. So, three of our four children are now living within easy driving distance and we couldn’t be happier. Our younger son and his family reside in VA. We’ll celebrate Thanksgiving with all our children and all but one of the grandkids gathering at our son’s house in Raleigh. Lynn and Ted Sinars completed their OR winery tour and are awaiting the delivery of five cases of wine. In between the Purdue and Boise State games that they attended, they visited Ireland, spending four days in Dingle and three in Galway. Ted notes Irish cuisine has much improved since their last visit and now they enjoyed wonderful seafood dinners. Ted says the seafood in Dingle was the best he has had anywhere they have traveled. Thanksgiving was at their daughter’s home in Sarasota FL. Dick Muench lets us know that his grandson Jack has remarried and lives in West LA where he works for the TV Entertainment Division of the Disney Company. Ken Lazarus updated us on Marylyn’s progress following a stroke several months ago. Marylyn is doing very well with no obvious signs of the stroke. However, she did attend a special clinic at the U of Michigan for acute speech therapy. It was intensive: five days a week, five hours each day, with different therapists each hour for a month. Marylyn and Ken were very pleased with her progress, and she continues to have two weekly therapy sessions at home. Ken thanks all who said a few prayers and requests a few more in thanksgiving. Frank Cihlar writes that he’s resumed his weight-lifting program after taking time off to replace a hip. He now has two artificial knees and two artificial hips. He has been operating with artificial intelligence for some time. — Jim Heinhold; 1200 Carmel Lane, New Bern NC 28562; res 252-638-5913; im4irish@gmail.com

68 Old Guys, Old News
If Notre Dame awards a prize for smiles, the Great ’68 grabbed the crown for all time during the weekend of Oct. 4. From the Friday night dinner to the final morsel of the Murphy brunch, every face had a broad, happy grin. More than 150, including wives, friends, children and grandchildren, responded to the brilliant Fred Ferlic reunion plan perfectly executed by Gene Cavanaugh. Joyce and Matt Walsh, days after gifting Notre Dame with $150 million, hosted a Friday night dinner (with a DJ and dancing) at the Walsh Family Architecture Building. The next morning, with Carmi and Chris Murphy proudly at the head, the Raclin Murphy Museum of Art Director Joseph Antenucci Becherer conducted a tour of the tremendous building and collection. A baseball cap with the museum name and Notre Dame on it supplemented the Great ’68 sweatshirt and T-shirt Skip Strzelecki gave everyone. A tailgate extraordinaire vanquished all competition for Tailgate of the Week honor (a real thing). Anyone who didn’t have enough fried chicken (Ferlic stand) and meatloaf (Mary and Tom Weyer stand) was still full from the Huddle burgers Fred Ferlic/Gene Cavanaugh organized for the Friday dinner. Then, on Sunday morning, Carmi and Chris Murphy hosted a brunch at their South Bend home. South Bend served up three days of perfect weather from its meager supply. In sum, we have reason to be grateful for the reunion Fred, Gene, Bryan Dunigan, Skip, Dave Heskin and Class President Tom Weyer put together. No doubt, Fred’s brainstorm is now an annual Great ’68 event. Free of the moderating influence of Tom Phillips (grandchild event conflict), John Kamp and Pete Toomey roamed freely throughout the weekend, among, to name some, Bibbie and Dennis Withers from Atlanta, Mary and Tom Slankas from East TN, Jim Smithberger and friend Linda from Tampa, Gloria and Myron Cramer from Annapolis, Lisa and Ed Wilbraham from Naples FL, wild dancer Mary Lou Toolan from Michiana, limber dance partner Michael Browning, Tim Cooney from Durango CO, exquisitely attired Vince Scully from Littleton CO, and Jean and Dr. Jim Druckenbrod from Chambersburg PA. Mary and Tom Weyer arrived after attending the Friday morning funeral of Mary’s brother John Joseph Gleason. Tom spoke of the comfort of being with “my brothers” at the weekend; a number had attended the funeral. At this point, unless the notes have been edited, you’ve read 400 words. During the decades, all of us have seen the 1968 notes migrate toward the front of the magazine. Now there is a new diminishment: a reduction from a 600-word allowance to 575. Yes, the printed notes have served us well and will continue to play a role. But if your email is correct in the Notre Dame directory (please check) and you allow such communication from nd.edu, you read the gist of this note about two months ago. That’s because life has brought us, in addition to grandchildren, long friendships and other wonders, the ability to be in quick communication. We can be aware of a friend’s loss, a friend’s joy on a timely basis, not months after the fact. Please send news and photographs to — Tom Figel; 570 Sheridan Square, Apt. 3, Evanston IL 60202; 312-241-7917; tfigel@reputecture.com

68JD A True Love Story
Paul Gore reports that he has published a fictional novel titled Behind the Altar. The novel draws upon Paul’s 70 years of experience ranging from altar boy to pastoral associate in ministering and legal matters within the Archdiocese of Miami. The book is about sacred places and involves mystery, scandal, death, redemption and resurrection. After earning his JD at Notre Dame, Paul graduated from U of Miami with a master’s in tax law. Paul was greatly influenced by Professor Thomas Shaffer’s works of Readings in Common Law and Counselors at Law. Paul considers that his work gives credibility to Professor Shaffer’s belief that law can indeed be a ministry. The hard-bound book of 495 pages is only available through the author by mailing a check for $50 to Paul Gore LLC, 1627 W. Main Street, #311, Bozeman MT 59715. After 56 years of submitting appellate briefs to reviewing courts across the country, Hugh Griffin finally has a brief in front of the US Supreme Court. Only one of many amicus briefs, but still cause enough for Hugh to plan to attend the Nov. 10 orals with his son and daughter-in-law who live in nearby VA. The case is GEO Group v. Menocal, Case No. 24-758. Robert Herr is no longer an adjunct instructor at Mitchell Hamline School of Law. Since then, he has volunteered as an evaluator at a YMCA National Judicial Competition in 2025. He is currently an election judge, charter county commissioner and local food shelf volunteer, and is having a good time! Patrick Pacella’s wife, Diane, had a four-hour back surgery on Aug. 27. She has recovered well and is moving around now like nothing ever happened. Amazing. God bless her! On a personal note, I was hired by a former associate of our firm to represent her daughter in an action against the NCAA in seeking another year of eligibility to play Division I field hockey. She was the MVP and captain of the ice hockey team when Wisconsin won the Division I NCAA championship in 2021. She transferred to Ohio State and her team won another Division I NCAA hockey championship. She also played field hockey for three years at Ohio State where she became an All-American. She was denied a fourth year of eligibility by the NCAA for field hockey. Our pleading was based upon several grounds, including the Sherman Anti-Trust Act. The NCAA reversed its portion before the case was filed, and she is now playing field hockey at Ohio State. She has also been named as a team member to participate on the 2026 US Olympics Team in field hockey. From a personal standpoint, it was very rewarding since I was good friends with her mom and dad for many years and provided the athlete with the ability to pursue her dreams. I had dinner with Suzie and Charlie Weiss before attending the St. Louis Speaker Series, which featured Dr. Anthony Fauci. His comments avoided any major criticism of the various presidents he served. On a sad note, Allen Barnard forwarded to me a joint obituary that appeared in the Minnesota Star Tribune on Sept. 7 of the death of Kathleen and James McGovern. Kathleen died on June 6 and Jim on Aug. 12. Their meeting was a “true” love story. Jim was a first-year undergraduate at Notre Dame and Kathleen had just graduated from high school, and the obituary notes: “James and a friend walked into the diner where Kathleen was with girlfriends, having dinner. In what has become family lore, Kathleen looked at James, looked at her friends and declared, ‘I’m going to marry him.’ She then worked up the nerve to write her phone number on a matchbook cover and handed it to her future husband. James said of the encounter, ‘She was the most beautiful girl I had ever seen. I couldn’t believe she chose me.’” The obituary ended with the following: “Being part of their origin story has been the greatest gift of all. For every legend has one, and legends are remembered through history. Generations from now, the descendants of James & Kathleen McGovern will remember their love story and honor it.” Finally, I would appreciate everyone providing me with updates on what is happening with you and your family. Hearsay evidence will be accepted. Kind regards. — Dennis G. Collins; 2203 Derby Way, St. Louis MO 63131; bus 314-516-2648; cell 314-229-9286; dcollins@ubglaw.com

69 Out of the Bullpen for Hickey
Jim Blakely interviewed John H. “Lucky” Luckadoo, 103, the last surviving pilot of the WWII “Bloody 100th Bomb Group.” Luckadoo flew with Jim’s dad, Capt. Everett Blakely ’60MA. August: While visiting Milwaukee, John Leonardo (Martha Durkin) had breakfast with Mike McCauley (Patty). September: The McCauleys abandoned their palace of 47 years by moving to a beautiful apartment overlooking Lake Michigan. Carl Marhoeffer and Greg Miles played a round at Cantigny Golf, Wheaton IL. Larry Pezanko (Sally), Greg Ryder (Nancy) and Chip Stumpf (Cathy) cruised from Montreal to Boston. Mike Ryan endowed the Rev. Joseph Carrier, CSC, Science Medal presented in honor of Mary Burke Ryan, awarded annually in recognition of outstanding achievements in the sciences. Jim Goetz wrote, “Our daughter Christina Goetz ’99 is now Sister Colette with the Poor Clare Monastery in Palos Park IL.” Jim Gleason (Karen) hosted Jim Bodary (Lesley) and Bob Gessner (Mariann) at their new home in Pinehurst NC. Dr. Greg Hipskind wrote: “I was recently appointed by RFK Jr., via Dr. Oz, to be a member of the White House National Brain Health Initiative Committee covering the area of the CDC’s ‘silent epidemic’ of concussion in America.” After Coley O’Brien’s death in August, Jim Slattery arranged a dinner the night before Coley’s funeral Mass in Falls Church VA. In attendance were Tom Altmeyer, George Connor (Cindy), Patty Criniti (Frank Criniti’s widow), Terry Hanratty, Pete Moriarty and Jim Panehal. Peter McInerney celebrated 50 years on the MI bar (1985-2025) 40 years after his father served on that bar (1935-85). October: The Rockne Memorial Society presented its 2025 Rockne Inspiration Award to Dr. Bill Hurd at a lunch on the Friday before the Purdue game. They recognized Bill — an All-American track star “who became a renowned ophthalmologist and global philanthropist.” Bill’s plus-one was South Bender Don Wycliff. That night, Bill performed with his jazz quartet at Merriman’s Playhouse. Kevin Flynn, Bill Waldron and Ed Weinlein attended their 60th reunion at Delbarton School, Morristown NJ. Football mini-reunions: At Miami were Terry Fiorina (Karen) and Dan Merritt (Cindy). Texas A&M game — Erich Ellinghaus, Fritz Gast (Mary), Steve Hext (Sally), Tom Hock (LuAnn), Mike Joyce, Dave Liss (grandson Noah Yohannes), John Lynch (Mary) and Paul Miller. Purdue: Jim Slattery organized a memorial event before the Purdue game, the day following Coley’s funeral services, at Joe Fry’s bench near Gate 14 with Mike Begley, Dean Benner, Dick Cimino, Louie Leone, Dick Merritt, John Quinn (Mary Helen), Tom Ryan, Richard Sullivan, Matt White and Ralph Williams. Joe’s widow, Virginia, and daughter, Barbara Pinette ’99, were also there. Boise State — Innsbruckers Jim Atkins, Jim Bennett (Elizabeth), Jim Bodary (Lesley), Bill Elliot, Bill Hennig (Judy), Steve Kavalauskas (Diane), Fritz Keppler, Chuck Nelson (Sharon). Also at Boise State: Joe Canfield, Jim Lyons, Matt Naegle and Pete Shannon, and alumni Buffaloes Kelley Macke, Brian Schmidlin, Ross Simpson, Hal Smith and Jack Wietoff ’70. NC State — Chip Stuff (Cathy) saw their frosh granddaughter, Lydia Stumpf. In memoriam: Dan Quinn, Aug. 11, Arlington Heights IL; Nick Bozen, Aug. 18, Lansing MI; Coley O’Brien, Aug. 21, Naples FL; Jim Conway, Oct. 4, Naples FL. Jim was my Farley roommate and the most positive guy I’ve ever met. Please send me your stuff. — John Hickey; jphjr47@hotmail.com; notredameclassof1969blog.blogspot.com

69MBA Mini-Reunion Update
As noted in the last update, several classmates attended the Boise State weekend, and we enjoyed a sun-and fun-filled weekend. Unfortunately, our football team stumbled out of the gate, but by the fourth game, our defense began to show some strength. I enjoyed a nice dinner on Friday evening with Linda and Joe Cavato, Nick Walz, my sister Diane and me (Ken Samara). Saturday began with early entry into the ADA parking lot, breakfast at Starbucks and a nice tailgate in the Joyce Lot, hosted by Nick’s daughter Buffy and husband Brad (sorry I forgot last names, but both are Domers). After taking care of Boise, we gathered for our traditional dinner at Sunny Italy attended by Linda and Joe Cavato, Dennis McCarthy and friend Mickey, Nick Walz, Jim Halas, Brian McCarthy and Heather (also a Notre Dame grad), my sister Diane and yours truly. On Sunday, 10 a.m. Mass at the Basilica tied up the weekend and we were off to our flights. We did have the privilege to visit Sara Walz (SMC) in memory care. Nick is an amazing caregiver. God bless him. At long last, I received a nice update from Joan and Gus Holderer. They have moved to Bonham TX, about two hours north of Dallas. Two of their children and their families moved next door in Paris TX. Son Michael ’03 and daughter Karen Sims ’03 were members of the Notre Dame Glee Club and traveled the world with this group. Michael is now the head of music department at Paris (TX) Junior College. Their son David ’91 lives in Plano, midway between Dallas and Bonham, so the Holderer family are a happy bunch. Please keep the prayers coming for Roz Castrogiovanni Hill (SMC) and Sara Walz (SMC). I’ll again encourage you to join our monthly ’69 MBA Zoom calls and to submit any news to me as it happens. — Ken Samara; 3030 McKinney Ave., Suite 601, Dallas TX 75204; 214-532-2187; kensamara@sbcglobal.net

69JD Farewell, Frank
Frank Murray was interred at the Cedar Grove cemetery near the Law School and the Burke Golf Course. Dave Prior and his wife, Anne; their daughter, Susan; and her family were present along with Frank’s wife, Mary Anne, and family. Joe McNeil, Frank’s law partner, and his wife, Doreen, were in attendance. One of Frank’s brothers played the alma mater. I am sure there wasn’t a dry eye at the ceremony. The Purdue game that followed included a two-hour lightning delay. They serve beer and wine at the stadium, something new. Sales were moved into the concourse during the delay. Serving Guinness at the game was a good omen. It was almost to the day in 1966 that Dave watched his first game at Rockne Stadium. My wife and I returned from a trip to Switzerland in time for the USC game. Joe Kennedy called me just as I was about to write this column. He was in the hospital for five days but recovered nicely. Joe has been in touch with the other Zep, Joe Frantin. Frantin has been MIA since Miami lost, unfortunately, not to ND. Joe Kennedy reported that Joe Frantin has a new love interest. Some things never change. — James Starshak; 889 Kaohe Place, Honolulu HI 96825; res 808-395-0443; cell 808-778-4033; starman@hawaii.rr.com