Lesley Ford Reilly has Passed Away...

The class of 1960 has lost one of its jewels.  Lesley Ford Reilly passed away April 9, 2015 after a battle with several medical issues.  Lesley was one of a kind and had the unique and genuine ability to light up a room in a most positive manner.  If you did not know Lesley well it's probably because during your conversations she was more interested in you than talking about herself.  Lesley and husband John, who have been together since high school, recently celebrated 50 years of marriage.  They rarely missed a class function.  During her working career, Lesley spent 27 years with National City Bank, primarily working in the trust department before retiring in 2000.  She and John were regulars at the New Jersey/Delaware shore each summer.  In addition to her husband, Lesley is survived by two children (and families) and three grandchildren.  Funeral arrangements were handled by Devlin Funeral Home and a Mass of Christian Burial was held at the St. Teresa of Avila Church... 

James "Mickey" Sweeney Passes Away Suddenly After Returning Home from Hospital

James "Mickey" Sweeney passed away suddenly from a heart attack at his home on February 13, 2015.  "Mickey" had just returned from Passavant Hospital earlier in the afternoon after recovering from a heart attack suffered Monday, February 9.  He received a stint to repair the 100% blockage of an artery.  Amazingly, we had just talked to "Mickey" on the phone prior to him leaving the hospital.  He sounded terrific...upbeat and excited to be going home.  "Mickey" joins his twin sister Carole, another of our classmates, with the Lord in heaven.  "Mickey" was truly a good guy, hard worker, a tell-it-like-it-is man, and one of the boys!"  Survivors include wife, Pat, and son Justin. Services are being held at Brandt Funeral Home on Perry Highway.

SANDY SWANN BECOMES SECOND CLASSMATE LOST IN A WEEK

Not a good week.  NHHS60 news has just received word that Sandy Swann (Brosenitsch) passed away November 5, 2014.  She was 72 and the second classmate lost (Karen Higgins) in the last week.  While attending NHHS where she was a very popular classmate, Sandy was active in a number of clubs including, F.H.A. and the Pep Club.  She spent a lenghty career with the U.S. Postal Service and was retired.  It's been reported that her passing culminates a nearly seven year battle with throat disease.  Sandy lived on Jack's Run Road in the North Hills and was married to Leo Brosenitsch for 51 years.  She had three daughters (families) and five grandchildren.  Funeral services were handled by the Schellhaas Funeral home of West View...

IT'S BEEN A LONG TIME BUT SOMETIMES NO NEWS IS GOOD NEWS!!!

WE'RE BAAAAACK!!!!!

Sometimes NO news is GOOD news!  But it is rather earth-shattering to report that it's been 881 days since our last update to this class news page.  The positive side to that statement is of particular note, because we've had very, very few deaths to report.  We do have another milestone reunion on the books for 2015, which we reported over the wires to those of you who have emails.  So stay tuned as there's a lot more to come on our 4-day 55th class reunion in the very near future.

Sadly we must address the few downsides: 

KAREN HIGGINS (Hamlin)... Just last week (October 30, 2014) we lost Karen, who lived in Albany, Ohio.  Husband Stephan reported she lost her battle with cancer and passed away with family by her side.  You'll remember Karen as one of the "nicest of nicest" classmates in our class.  She was a yearly Student Council representative and belonged to a number of other clubs at NHHS including, French, Latin, Pep and Y-Teen clubs.  Karen spent her career as an elementary teacher in New Athens, OH.  She is survived by her husband, two daughters (families) and several grandchildren...

PAUL RITTLE... NHHS60 news received information recently from Paul's relatives that he passed away in January of 2014.  No further information is available and we were unable to locate a death notice at this time...

VIRGINIA "COOKIE" DENZER (Hood)... Jan Straganivicz informed us of Virginia's death some time ago.  At the time of her passing Virginia was living in Mt. Pleasant, PA and had been retired from a secretarial career...

The recent passing of Karen Higgins brings our list of MEMORIAMS to 56.  With 360 members in our class, 56 represents a loss of 15%.

NOTES:  Now that Cliffy and I are REWIRED, please feel free to pass on whatever, GOOD (hopefully), BAD (hopefully NOT) or INDIFFERENT (we'll try to print it) information you may wish to share with your classmates regarding YOU, YOUR FAMILY, KIDS OR G-KIDS and we'll do our best to pass it on and keep up with the flow!!!!

Henry "Hank" Cooper Succumbs To Cancer; Bill Bernhard Memorial Service To Be Held At Univ. of Rochester, June 23rd

HENRY "HANK" COOPER never smoked a day in his life.  He once told this writer, "My dad was a big man.  If I would have smoked a cigarette he would have beaten the hell out of me."  But not long ago during a routine physical check-up, doctors noted a spot on Henry's lung.  It was stage-4 lung cancer and was malignant.  After a valiant battle, Henry Cooper lost that battle and passed away June 5, 2012.  Henry and his wife Amy Allen, a librarian who he met and married in 2004, were happily living out their retirement years in the rural town of Grantsville, WV.  They had purchased a farm, made their own honey and produced much of their own food.  Ironically, on the same day Henry died, he was named recipient of the "Shining Star" award by Calhoun County in recognition of his countless hours of volunteer work and efforts to help save a financially stressed park.  Friends characterized Henry as, "unassuming and dedicated."  The local paper quoted one source as saying, "He gave his time and energy to so many community projects, never wanting any recognition."  Henry will forever be remembered by his high school baseball mates for the great game he pitched during the 1960 season against Central Catholic and their star hurler - "Sudden Sam" McDowell.  The young, red-headed, freckle-faced kid was thrust into the starting role for that game even though he was the most inexpereienced of the starters.  And although he lost that legendary contest, 1-0, he left an impression that his teammates would never forget.  Following NHHS and after a brief stint at Pitt, Henry transferred to Slippery Rock University, graduated with a major in Physical Education and went on to a lengthy career as a teacher and coach at Moon Township High School.  Henry is survived by his wife, Amy, and a sister and her family.  Funeral arrangements are being completed by Stump Funeral Home in Grantsville, WV.  Condolences may be sent to:  Amy Cooper, P.O. Box 49A, Grantsville, WV  26147-0049...

DR. WILLIAM BERNHARD, Professor of Biochemistry and Biophysics, faculty member for more than 40 years at the University of Rochester, and past president of the Radiation Research Society, died peacefully May 9 at his home in Mendon, NY from a rare brain disease, diagnosed as Cretzfeldt Jakob.  Bill was a biophysicist of the highest order, working at the forefront of understanding how radiation damages genetic material.  He was an internationally known expert in his field.  Bill's command of both biological and physical aspects of radiation damage earned him the respect and recognition of colleagues worldwide.  In addition, he was a talented craftsman with great technical skill as seen in his home and hobbies.  Most amazingly, Bill was an incredibly fit tri-athlete and could discuss "aero-bars and error-bars" with equal facility.  In the last year of his life, he finished the Alpe d'Huez triathlon in France, earned the title of "Oldest Finisher" of the SavageMan half-ironman in Maryland, took a three-week Himalayan trek in Bhutan and numerous trips with his loving wife of 46 years and spent quality time with family.  Prior to his illness, Bill was undoubtedly in as good, or better, physical condition than any one person his age.  He was dedicated to his family and was a champion of living life fully, with principle, curiosity, kindness and great joy.  After leaving NHHS in 1960, where he was a standout on the wrestling team and dedicated member of the marching band, he attended Union College and earned a B.S. in physics.  Next, Bill went on to Penn State University where he received his PhD in Biophysics, and after some post-graduate work at Argonne National Laboratory, joined the faculty at the University of Rochester in 1970 and has been there ever since.  Bill is survied by wife Pat, two children Casey and Mandy (and families) and five grandchildren.  A memorial service will be held at the Interfaith Chapel, University of Rochester, on June 23rd at 10:00AM.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the William A. Bernhard Mentorship Fund, and sent to: Kathy Votaw, Executive Director, Radiation Research Society, P.O. Box 7050, Lawrence, KS  66044-8897...  

CLASS OF '60 LOSES TWO MORE CLASSMATES...

JOHN "JACK" EMERY... Tall, good looking and quiet, best described Jack Emery. Our friend passed away peacefully on December 2, 2011. Jack was 69-years-old and resided in Grove City, PA. His passion for cars led to ownership of the Emery Tire & Care Center on McKnight Road. Later-on during his working career, Jack was involved in several other ventures including, a gas/convenience store business, and the opening of a delicatessen in Mars, PA, which he named, "Crabby Jack's Strip District Deli." He proudly served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War and was a member of the North Hill Lodge #716 F&A.M.. Jack was also a former member of the Wildwood Country Club. He is survived by his wife, Peggy Gipson Emery, a son, and a host of loving relatives. Funeral arrangements were handled by the Schellhaus Funeral Home.

RALPH "SLEEPY-G" DOEHLA... If you knew Ralph Doehla you loved him. If you didn't know him, you would have loved him if you'd met him. Ralph was that kind of a carefree, honest, and up-front type of guy. He had a most subtle and unique sense of humor. Ralph Doehla, 69, of Baden, PA, died January 4, 2012, at the Good Samaritan Hospice House, from medical issues related to cancer and liver problems. He was a retired salesman, who worked for Virgo Manufacturing Corp. During "Dole's" days at NHHS, he was a member of the North Hills Marching Band and a valued member of the Indians wrestling team, his junior and senior years. He was an avid golfer and member of the Baden American Legion. Ralph is survived by his wife, Nikki Spears Doehla, a step-son, Craig Deeb, and a sister. At Ralph's request, there was no visitation or service. The family was assisted by John Syka Funeral Home of Ambridge...

Roy Myers, 69, Passes Away Suddenly and Unexpectedly Following a Short Illness...

We are sad to report that classmate and friend Roy Myers of Greenville, PA passed away on October 20, 2011 at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. Roy had been dealing with pneumonia over the summer months prior to developing congestive heart failure and fibrosis of the lung. His death was sudden and unexpected.

Roy totally enjoyed our class gatherings and was a regular at the December Holiday Luncheons. Actually, the last time we spoke with Roy, he was in a celebratory mode as wife Joyce, who after battling cancer, had just been declared cancer-free. Joyce asked us to pass along a "thank you" to all of Roy's classmates for the friendships that he so cherished.

Following graduation from NHHS, he followed his initial plan and enlisted in the United States Air Force. He served six years. Roy went onto LaRoche College and earned a Bachelor of Science degree, then embarked on a 30+ year career with Allegheny County in children and youth services.

Over the years, he served as 7th district commander disabled veterans, senior vice commander chapter 55 disabled veterans, and was a lifetime member of American Legion post 296 in Sharon, PA. In addition, Roy gave 25 years of service to the Pennsylvania hunter-trapper education program, and was a certified lay speaker at the Mt. Hope United Methodist Church in Sandy Lake.

Roy, who had no children, is survived by his wife Joyce, his mother and father-in-law, and a host of relatives and friends. Funeral services were held at the Mt. Hope United Methodist Church and funeral arrangements were handled by the Robert L. Snyder Funeral Home, Ltd, of Sheakleyville, PA. Roy Myers was one of the "good guys" and we will miss him dearly...

CHILLY, WINDY SPRING BREAK TEMPS OFFSET BY THE WARMTH OF GOOD OLD FASHION FRIENDSHIPS!!

The 6th Annual NHHS Anna Maria Island Spring Break is now in the books. Our gatherings maxed out at 45 Friday and Saturday evenings.

Clif Gaus and friend Krisy Ness, our cherished hosts, announced their engagement, and after maneuvering their way over a few speed bumps in reunion logistics, turned in the usual stellar performance of pulling classmates and friends together.

CONGRATULATIONS and THANK YOU to CLIF and KRISY!!!

While most of our Florida friends were freezing their tails off, we new arrivals were relishing and basking in the cool and windy 40-50 degree sunny bluebird days. After all, most of us "Snowbirds" hadn't seen 40 degrees since last November and it was quite appealing.

The home of "The Best Burger on the Island," Skinny's Bar on Gulf Drive and Manatee, was the site of Thursday's reunion weekend kickoff. Blackie, Clif, Vinnie Malone and the Bobby Knaus' led the burger charge, and downed a beverage or two along the way.

Thursday evening the "early arrivals" converged on a local bar/restaurant called MartiniVille. This newly opened establishment accommodated our 20 or so mates and friends in the grandest of fashion and was located just a stone's throw from "Cliffy's on the Canal." We arrived early and stayed late - no surprise there.

The Tony Snowball's, who are off to permanent residence in England once they sell their Orland home, also became early birds and didn't miss a "bloomin' beat."

Most took advantage of the generous, liberal, and inexpensive happy hour. Some ventured off to test the house specialty - "The Martini" - which was available in a number of different shapes, sizes and flavors.

The menu favored seafood and Italian entrees. The pizza was outstanding and Richie Heil and Dave Miller helped Blackie polish off a sausage and pepperoni.

No major casualties were reported other than one of our over-zealous mates (eerrh, Blackie) knocking over and breaking a glass while attempting to perform a mini skit, of which, he was totally incapable of pulling off. Needless to say, a good time was had by all, including the Bob Depner's, who drove in from Atlanta and returned after missing last year.

Friday morning and afternoon offered an abundance of free time. Golf chairman Richie Heil was poised to roll out the golf carts but this year there were no takers, therefore no golf. The Red Barn was a familiar and popular destination, as was St. Armand's Circle, a Mecca for shopping on the Gold Coast.

The Maser's pilfered a couple fishing rods 'n reels from Cliffy's garage and were off to fisherman's wharf in search of "the big one."

Several of our friends slipped in afternoon naps... but we won't mention names...Mil-Mil.

Chilly weather and heavy winds made the traditional reception at "Cliffy's on the Canal" a bit of a challenge but we prevailed. The evening perked up with the grand entrance of the Dave Kniess entourage - Carol Harper, to our delight, made her first reunion appearance since graduation and returned to the fold - Harry Weber sailed down from Tampa for a Friday night only showing - and Lake City mainstay Billy Domke spent the evening with us after visiting his dad in Naples.

Wearing his chef's apron and looking every bit like a shaved down image of famous culinary master Emeril, Vinnie Malone fired up the grill and pumped out more hamburgers and hot dogs than we could devour.

The Ricky Stotz's, who drove up from Ft. Myers, and the Dick Neidhardt's, who base their winters out of Marco Island, did their share in helping to dent the food fest. Any movements by the Carol Congalton's resembling that of a dance step were purely coincidental, and confused with movements of trying to stay warm.

But "Cliffy's on the Canal" had to be the top spot on the island, for a least one night, anyway... and a best kept secret, we might add.

After all, where else within a half a state, could you feast on all-you-can-eat burgs and dogs, with baked beans, veggie and fruit offerings, as well as an endless supply of beer and wine... ALL for a bill-of-fare of $10.00 per person, including tip??

Saturday morning after clearing the cobwebs, half of our friends headed east to McKechnie Field to check out our 2011 Pittsburgh Pirates who were entertaining the Philadelphia Phillies.

The Janet Jarabin's returned and brought their support for the Buccos. Wendy Johnson hooked up with Tortuga Hotel residents and mates "Hinkel-Dinkle" and Sandy Reutzel, making a very attractive three-some.

We arrived well ahead of game time, hit the picnic area inside the park, and despite the fact we had stuffed ourselves with burgs and dogs the night before, we could not pass up the famous "McKechnie Ballpark Footlong Hot Dog" and a cold brew.

The Pirates did not disappoint. They lost the ball game and sent us home firmly convinced they're headed into their record-holding 19th consecutive losing season.

But not from lack of support from "Hinkel-Dinkle," who's never been know for a shortage of words and optimism. While admiring the seamless, wrinkle-free, tight white trouser of her boys, "Hinkel-Dinkle's occasional and encouraging blasts of, "Hey, let's go BABYCAKES," echoed throughout the stands.

Once back on the island, we found our way to the "Gulf Cafe and Tiki Bar" for happy hour and dinner. The restaurant was just north and up island from our previous Saturday night haunt, The Beachhouse.

Also UP island, Reutzel incurred a slight problem. We're not sure if she got hung up in the tight white pants, or "Hinkel-Dinkle's" vocals, but on the drive back she managed to lose her Tortuga Hotel room key. She was ordered to pay a $50.00 lost key charge. Needless to say, she found the lost key the next morning, but it was a lock-change-charge, and $50.00 bill too late.

Kudos to host Clif, who had to overcome some last minute detail and location disparities to nail down a Saturday night location. It was obvious from the outset that our spring breakers were going to create a new experience for the TIKI restaurant servers and staff.

It was also obvious that the Judy Bach's were missing. While traveling, they missed the updated location change email and were waiting for us down the street at the Beachhouse Restaurant. The Bach's worked out their wrinkles and arrived late.

But despite a few wrinkles at the restaurant also, HEY, we were right smack on the beach...prime time and a prime time location. We drank - we ate - and we were treated to an incredibly beautiful sunset that melted down over the water and the western horizon.

We welcomed the arrival of the Bill Zimmerman's, who shared the woes of their lame duck, broken down "NEW" Mercedes, which set them back a couple days.

A last minute change of plans allowed Carol Stack to add a positive flavor to the Saturday evening mix by doing an UP and BACK drive from Punta Gorda. Guest and friend Ken McGlincy stepped up generously and spotted each table an appetizer platter of peel 'n eat shrimp.

Following dinner, and after a wonderful evening of conversation, interaction, and catching up, by 9:00pm, everybody was set to head their separate ways.

Sunday morning was absolutely beautiful. And the Sunday morning tradition at the Beach Cafe for the concession "line 'em up" breakfast was rockin' 'n rollin'. Better than 20 of our mates and friends showed around 9am-ish and we claimed occupancy through 12:00noon.

Another year had been successfully notched onto our belts.

Those looking in from the outside cannot believe our class -"The Colossal Class of 1960." The friendships, camaraderie, and togetherness of our NHHS classmates and friends stand in a category of its own.

Looking from the inside out, we can't imagine it being any other way. We would want it NO other way. We are blessed with a group of people who grew up from simple means - during simple times - reuniting, and coming together - maintaining and nurturing friendships - friendships which were conceived more than 50 years ago. Those friendships never died - and we never forgot where we came from!!!

If you are a member or friend of the NHHS Class of 1960... you're IN - you're in THE IN-CROWD!!!

"Yoi" and "double-yoi!!" And thanks again to Cliffy and Krisy for making it happen!!!

See "yunz" guys next year!!!

CLASSMATE JAMES "JIM" BROWN LOSES BATTLE TO INOPERABLE BRAIN TUMOR...

We are sad to report classmate, James "Jim" Brown, of Kingsport, TN, passed away at his home after a long battle with an inoperable brain tumor on Janurary 14, 2011. Jim formed the other half of "The Brown Boys." Brother Carl, who lives in Pittsburgh, was also a classmate.

After enlisting and serving four years in the U.S. Air Force, Jim joined IBM in Knoxville, TN. He spent the next 30 years working for IBM and retired from his position as a Customer Support Engineer in 1998.

North Hills classmates knew Jim as an avid member of the North Hills Chorus, and as one of the truly "good guys" in the class. Professionally, he will be remembered as a gentleman, who always conducted himself in a highly professional manner. And friends, who will miss him dearly, described Jim as a "one-of-a-kind" person who was never without a smile on his face.

Jim is survived by wife Patsy, daughter Jenny, son Jimi and families, five grandchildren, brother Carl, and his mother, Dorothy Brown. The family received friends, and a funeral service with an offering of special remembrances followed, at the J. Wayne Hamilton Memorial Chapel of the Oak Hill Funeral Home on January 17, 2011. Our thanks to classmate, Paul Schlemmer, who passed this information on to NHHS60 news...

50th REUNION PHOTO AND DVDs ARE IN THE MAIL - HOPEFULLY YOU'LL HAVE BY THE WEEKEND!!!

DECEMBER 1, 2010 UPDATE... FINALLY, FINALLY!!! THEY'RE IN THE MAIL!!! The class photo and DVD from our 50th are in the mail and on the way. All those registered both Friday and Saturday nights will receive photo and DVD via U.S. Mail. They should be received by this coming weekend or shortly after. In addition to the photo and DVD you will receive a cover letter and reunion survey/questionnaire. If you wish to fill it out, please return that to Bruce Abel per instructions by December 15, 2010. Requests for class photos and/or DVDs should be directed to Blackie at 636-926-7881 or jblackstock@prodigy.net. Aaron Dudas did an outstanding job putting the 43 minute video together. A written summary of the reunion weekend has been posted under the REUNION HISTORY tab so, if you wish to look back, have at it...

OTHER NEWS - We're pleased to let you know that we've just located missing classmate Robert "Bob" Ivey. Bob is living in Rotunda West, FL, his contact information has been posted on the registry, and we are most happy to welcome him back to the Class of 1960. We hope to see Bob on Anna Maria Island during our Spring Break Mini Reunion over the March 12, 2010 weekend... WELCOME BACK, BOB!!!

NHHS'60 NEWS LEARNS OF THE 2009 STROKE AND PASSING OF CLASSMATE ROBERT COSTELLO IN DEARBORN, MI

Susan Jo Barnard Costello wrote recently to pass on the sad news her husband, Robert E. Costello, a member of the NHHS Class of 1960, passed away in Dearborn, MI on February 13, 2009. Bob suffered a stroke four days earlier and never regain the ability to speak or swallow.

A memorial service was held at the Dearborn Evangelical Covenant Church and funeral arrangements were handled by Howe-Peterson Funeral Home in Dearborn, MI.

Bob Costello was a brilliant man and had a brilliant career. Following graduation from NHHS, he launched a scholarly attack second to none. He blitzed through St. Vincent's College of Latrobe, attended Marietta College of Ohio, and graduated Magna Cum Laude with a degree in economics, while ranking 3rd out of 303 classmates.

Bob later enrolled at University of Michigan and went into law. He earned a law degree and his honors included, Juris Doctor, Magna Cum Laude, Order of the Coif and he ranked 7th in a class of 322.

Bob then started as an associate attorney with a Florida firm and later settled in at Ford Motor Company as senior attorney and in-house counsel for 20 years. He retired in 1995 and is survived by wife Susan, who is a NHHS'61 graduate, and two daughters, Melissa and Heather...

NHHS CLASS OF 1960 LOSES ANOTHER MATE WITH THE PASSING OF BOB LOEHR, 68, OF ALLISON PARK...

We've just learned that quiet and likeable classmate Robert C. "Bob" Loehr of Allison Park, passed away February 22, 2010. Bob was 68 years old and his death is believed to have been related to cancer. He is the 46th member of the NHHS class of 1960 to have passed away. During his working career, Bob spent the majority of those years employed as a salesman for Advantage Marketing in the Pittsburgh area. Bob is survived by wife Shirley, son Robert Jr., and two grandchildren. At the family's request there was no visitation but a memorial service was held at the Memorial Park Church in Allison Park on March 6, 2010. Arrangements were handled by the H.P. Brandt Funeral Home in Perrysville. If you wish to express condolences to the Loehr family, here is the address: 2537 Victoria Drive, Allison Park, PA 15101...

THE "SECOND TUESDAY" CLASS BREAKFAST CONTINUES TO GAIN MOMENTUM - AND YOU'RE INVITED!!!

The "Second Tuesday" of each month is a special day for the NHHS Class of 1960. And it's another opportunity to get together with your classmates, relish the old times, the present times, and if you wish, forecast the new times.

Dick Maser and Dave Miller have been spearheading a "Second Tuesday" of the month gathering of classmates at the Eat'n Park Restaurant on Route 8 (just across from the PA turnpike entrance) for quite sometime. Maser reports another great turnout this month and tells us, "the group appears to be getting larger and larger."

The last breakfast (August 11) was attended by 13 classmates, including Dave Miller, Bobby Brant, Ron Hasek, Dennis Sutey, Bill Pfaffle, Mickey Sweeney, Roger Stanier, Jim Schafer, John Reilly, Bill Smith, Wayne Windhorst and Maser. Also in attendance was Janet Stehle, who doesn't mind being the "only gal" but would sure like to see some others join in and balance out the crowd.

It's most appealing that Tuesday is "Seniors Day" - all you can eat - at Eat'n Park and the quantity, quality and the prices are right!!

Our classmates who attend make it a good, fun, time. If you choose to participate, you can help make it an even better time. And Maser wants to re-emphasize and tell you one more time, "yes, you are invited and have a standing invitation."

The "Second Tuesday" good times start about 9:30AM and the next scheduled gathering is Tuesday, September 8th - you'll see the crowd and hear the chatter - BE THERE!!!

For additional information contact Dick Maser at 412-486-4639 or email at maserm@verizon.net...

CAROLE ANN SWEENEY: HIGH HOPES AND OPTIMISM TURN TO SAD ENDING...

Our lasting memory of classmate Carole Ann Sweeney (Mitchell) will be from visiting with her at the NHHS'60 December, 2008, Holiday Luncheon at Monte Cello's Italian Restaurant.

A year earlier, she had been diagnosed with lung cancer. But in December, Carole was bubbling with the news she had been mis-diagnosed, and all was well. However, five months later in May of 2009, the dastardly disease struck again. And on July 6, 2009, Carole succumbed to cancer and passed away quietly with her family at her bedside.

The 1960 yearbook reminds us Carole was "dependable and always ready to help." She was active in many class activities at NHHS, including Pep Club, FHA, Commercial Club and the Yearbook staff. She served as President of the Commercial Club and held the position of Treasurer in the FHA.

Following graduation from North Hills, she was married to Charles Leibeck and later divorced. Carole re-married Ray Mitchell and he died several years later from cancer.

During her working years, Carole was employed as a receptionist, and held administrative positions with serveral local medical doctors and dentists, including Dr. John Allen, DDS, of Bellevue. Dr. Allen was the father of NHHS classmate Jay Allen.

In addition to a twin brother, Jim "Mickey" Sweeney and his family, Carole is survived by a son, Jeffrey Liebeck, and his wife Sharon. She was most proud of Jeffrey, who is a lawyer living in Buffalo, NY.

At Carole's request there was no viewing or service. The funeral arrangements were entrusted to Schellhaas Funeral Home & Creamation Services, Inc of West View...

GAIL DENNY OF CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA LOSES VALIANT BATTLE TO BREAST CANCER...

It's been reported and confirmed that classmate Gail Denny lost her valiant battle with breast cancer and died April 8, 2009 in Charlottesville, VA, with her daughter Kate at her side.

At NHHS, Gail was a popular classmate who was a dedicated member of the marching band, she excelled in math, and was an honor roll student. She wore a smile from ear to ear. And her cheerful voice woke us up over the school's public address system each day just prior to the first period with the daily announcements.

During the last couple years, Gail battled her illness long and hard and never lost her zest for life. Her friends will remember her as "the ultimate people person" whose on-going display of intelligence, courage, compassion and good humor was her forte. Gail knew no strangers, and she loved, and was loved by people of all ages and all walks of life.

Following her days at Bucknell Univerisity where she enrolled following North Hills, a number of relocations, and graduation from Iowa State University where she earned a degree in Distributive Studies (Biology and Anthropology), she and her family settled in Decorah, IA, devoting her time to raising her children, giving them a solid foundation of which to carry forward into their lives.

While in Decorah, Gail also found time to attend Luther College and complete the accounting major sequence program. She participated in volunteer work and became office manager of Decorah's Well-Elderly Clinic.

She then spent the last 15 years of her life in Charlottesville, VA. After losing two sisters to cancer, Gail moved to Virginia where she not only took care of her parents in their later years but found time to make a contribution while working at the National Headquarters of the Kappa Sigma Fraternity and was again cited for her sense of humor, attention to detail and organizational skills.

She is survived by her husband, Ralph Van Fossen, two sons, a daughter, their families, along with five-grandchildren.

Details regarding a private ceremony honoring and celebrating Gail's life were unavailable...

POPULAR SCIENCE TEACHER GEORGE BADO, 87, PASSES AWAY IN HOUSTON, TX...

The NHHS60 news has just learned George Bado, a retired Science teacher at North Hills High School, passed away March 22, 2009 in Houston, TX. He was 87-years-old.

A terrific sense of humor was the basis of Mr. Bado's popularity with his students. He arrived at NHHS from Monaca High in 1960 and remained teaching for the next 25 years.

Mr. Bado was born and raised in West Virginia and joined the U.S. Marines following high school. He served in the Pacific Theatre during World War II and was awarded numerous medals, including the Purple Heart.

Upon leaving the Marines, Mr. Bado enrolled at Bethany College, earned a B.A. degree and began his career in education. While at Bethany, he met and married wife Sally. Mr. Bado also served his community through the Masons, Shriners and as a member of the Allegheny Knight's Templar Commandary.

In addition to his wife, George Bado is survived by three sons and six grandchildren. A service was held in Houston on March 25th, and a memorial service was also conducted in North Hills at the Highland Presbyterian Church on April 18th...

IT'S TUESDAY MORNING - YOU BORED?? JOIN "THE FUN BUNCH" AT EAT 'N PARK - ROUTE 8!!

It's the second Tuesday of the month. You've just finished paying bills, you're bored and looking for something to do! Not to worry, your NHHS60 news has the perfect suggestion. Why not pick your "good-self" up and head on out to the Eat 'n Park at the Turnpike entrance on Route 8 and join your classmates -- "THE FUN BUNCH!" Whether you're local, visiting from out-of-town, or just a friend of the Class of 1960, stop by, you will have an enjoyable time - we promise!!

Once there, you'll find at least 10 to 12 of your former mates and friends -- doing the all-you-can-eat SENIOR BREAKFAST BUFFET @ $4.49 -- rehashing old stories from our North Hills days -- and solving the problems of the world. Don't be a stranger. We don't know any strangers, so come on out. Just ask the hostess to direct you to "THE FUN BUNCH" and you'll be ushered directly to the fun festivities.

This monthly gathering concept was brought forth by Dave Miller, Dick Maser and Donnie Dieter, and has grown in numbers each month. First arrivals usually appear about 9-9:30AM-ish, the time will fly and before you know it, your watch will show 12:00NOON. Your NHHS60 news had the opportunity to join the April gathering and, yes, it was an affordable and entertaining gas, just as advertised.

The mainstays and frequent attendees include, Miller, Maser, Dieter, Roger Stanier, Ronnie Hasek, Dennis Sutey,. Richie Heil, Mickey Sweeney, Bobby Brant, John Reilly, Billy Pfaffle, Dennis Rascov, Bruce Schomaker, Jim Schafer, Carol Sweeney, Janet Stehle and Brian Pritchard'59.

For more information, questions, and to be added to "THE NHHS60 FUN BUNCH" MONTHLY EMAIL REMINDER LIST, please contact Dave Miller - DLmillers@zoominternet.net - 724.502.4949; or Dick Maser - maserm@verizon.net - 412.486.4639; or Don Dieter - diet1942@aol.com - 412.486.3975...

ENJOY!!! BON APPETITE!!!

THE 2009 ANNA MARIA ISLAND REPORT: "GOOD, BETTER, AND NOW... THE BEST!!!

Respectively speaking, that headline pretty much recaps the last three years of NHHS Class of 1960 Annual March Spring Break ventures to Florida's Anna Maria Island. We're now five years running with our class gatherings in the sunshine state. The very first took place in Ft. Myers and was attended by four classmates.

But this year's 2009 trip takes top honors, as BEST of BEST, by landslide proportions - total attendance was 48 mates and guests. Peggy Maser nailed it when she said, "Having a 'home base' at Clif's house made for a tremendously relaxed atmosphere. We will share the wonderful experience and encourage other classmates to come join us next year."

Logically, you might ask, what makes one reunion better than the other? First and foremost, larger attendance - more classmates - more spouses - more friends. Then you toss in 4-5 perfect 75 degree bluebird days. Add your host's offering of his beautiful, and continuously open, house on the canal as hangout headquarters for both, pre and post evening activities.

Next, reactivate and recharge a sizzling gourmet catering duo from within your midst. Arm them with the ingredients for a hearty menu of seemingly unlimited appetizers, topped off with a couple casseroles of Italian pasta, sausage and cheese, and how could you find despair? And lastly, anchor the group with the entertaining base of regular spring breakers, sprinkle in a number of first timers and friends, and it just doesn't get any better.

The Friday night spectacle, clearly the highlight of the weekend, kicked off at 4PM and mingled on until nearly mid-night. In essence, everybody heading back to their accommodations left in wonderful spirits, as well as carrying a few more pounds than when they arrived. Beer and wine were served, liquor was BYOB and everyone was asked to contribute $10 to help offset expenses.

MVP AWARDS for the overwhelming success of Friday's events went to host Clif Gaus, culinary masters Dave & Natalie Kniess and class golf chairman Richie Heil.

Early arrivals Wednesday and Thursday had plenty of "Florida Fun Free Time" on their hands. Some basked in the warm rays of sun on the beautiful Gulf beaches. Others browsed the shops of famous St. Armand's Circle and the Red Barn Antique & Flea Market which is always a popular spot to shop 'til you drop. A handful of mates made the traditional visit to Skinny's Bar on Gulf Drive for their famous "island pounder hamburgs" and cold beer.

Several took in the Thursday afternoon bonus baseball game - Minnesota Twins vs Pirates - at historic McKechnie Field in Bradenton. Following the game, a large contingent (18) of mates and spouses visited Sharkey's Restaurant to enjoy their famous prime rib and seafood dinner specials. Afterward, it was back to "Clif's on the Canal" for nightcaps and a warm evening setting with friends.

Friday morning and afternoon offered up more "Florida Fun Free Time." Some remained on the beach - the girls did lunch at the Columbia Restaurant at St. Armand's, while a number of the guys hit the nearby Manatee Golf Club for a round of frustration on their way to the 19th hole, where they all excelled.

The ensuring Friday evening/night highlight at "Clif's on the Canal" hosted 39 of our mates and guests. Master Clif, now a permanent resident of Anna Maria Island, let it all out - he rented tables and chairs - provided table clothes and candles - coolers loaded with beer and wine and snacks.

Dave Kniess, the famous, now retired, gourmet caterer from Wallingford, CT, along with wife Natalie, dawned their chefs attire, worked their proverbial buns off and cooked up an abundance of appetizers and assorted goodies to insure nobody went home hungry.

Truly a magical delight and what a presentation, and what a fabulously informal night of friends reconnecting with friends. Ricky Stotz, on the Friday night activities, said, "The evening at 'Clif's on the Canal' really made it special - as it was just our group, and made it like a family get together. We're already looking forward to next year - THANKS!!

A small aggregation of early birds headed over to the "Cafe on the Holmes Beach" for a concession style breakfast Saturday morning while the majority did the 'slow and easy' in preparation for the ride over to Bradenton to watch the New York Yankees vs Pirates baseball game. Our gang of Bucco rooters topped out at 32. Many left late in the game with the Pirates leading, but were dismayed to find out they ultimately lost.

On the informal gatherings, Darlene Albrecht had this to say, "I especially enjoyed the small and informal groups, as I met and talked to classmates I never knew in high school - our paths just never crossed. Of course, I enjoyed catching up with friends, too - the weather and the company was the best - and the memories PRICELESS!!! Thanks, Clif!"

Following the game, it was a quick change and off to the next stop, the Grand Finale at the Beach House Restaurant, where Clif had worked up reservations for 40+ mates and guests. The first of 44 arrivals started streaming in around 4PM. Thanks to master Clif, the Beach House was prepared. They know us and they accommodate in the finest of fashion.

A band of early evening clouds obscured the brilliant sunset but that didn't affect the fun, conversation and spirits of our classmates. Judy Bach summed it up, "What a wonderful location to meet up with old classmates and to also get to know some that I did not know well in school - we'll be back next year!"

After dinner and a few libations it was back to "Clif's on the Canal." Minus the short drive time, we never skipped a beat as 32 of our revelers returned to party on. The after dinner nightcap group dispersed around mid-night, and the last of the burning candles were finally blown out. NO casualties were reported.

Barb Bollen made a valid point, saying, "What I thought was so wonderful was that the reunion centered around Clif's house and it made for a very relaxed setting for getting to know and re-know people. I loved meeting the wives and making new friends. I really enjoyed that part, and i would keep the same format next year. I had the best time - it was PERFECT!"

Sunday morning it was back to the Cafe on the Holmes Beach for the now traditional farewell concession stand breakfast. Twelve to fourteen made the early call. After the hearty breakfast, we planted the conversation seeds for next year's Spring Break and commenced the always sad string of goodbyes. Host Clif's announcement that there will be a 6th ANNUAL SPRING BREAK on Anna Maria Island in 2010, sent the crowd back to reality in excellent spirits.

Guest Francee Malone described the weekend in a nutshell, saying, "The reunion was fantastic!" When asked if he would be open to hosting our 50th class reunon on AMI, Clif replied, "Well, I think I could handle maybe 60 or 70 guests, but I'm not sure I could do 200-250!!" (and the laughter followed!)

First timers to our Florida mini reunion were: Darlene Albrecht (Bill Young WV'58), Judy Bach (Frank), Barb Bollen, Bob Depner (Ruthie), Kent McGlincy (Doris) guests, "Keep-Your-Head-Down-Bob" Genter (Carol) guests, Dick Neidhardt (Eloise), Brian Pritchard'59 (Judy'61) guests, Janet Stehle (Bob Imhof WV'58), Fritz Wainell'62 (Sue), guests and Harry Weber.

The mainstay regulars returning were: Host Clif (of course, and S.O. Christine), Blackie (Rhonda), Ron Bernstein, Bruce Schomaker (Donna'61), Richie Heil (Dian'61), Bruce Abel, Tony Snowball (Brenda), Dave Kniess (Natalie), Christine Fischer (Jerry), Dick Maser (Peggy), Bill Knoch (Nancy), Vinnie Malone (Francee), Ricky Stotz (Chrissie), Jimmy Schmidt, Bill Domke, Kenny Stewart'59 (Cheryl) guests... Previous attendees noticeably missing were: The Dave Millers, Carol Congalton, Janet Jarabin, Suzy Ervin, Barbara Schroeder, Carol Stack, Janet Bowser, Patty Hudson and the Tattoo Lady...

Guest Brian Pritchard'59 writes, "Judy and I really appreciate being 'honorary members' of the class of 1960!"

OFF THE WALL STUFF (things you should, or shouldn't know??).... Cliffy's significant other Christine, a Scottish lassie with the classy brogue, was a total hilarious blast... Dave Miller phoned in to let us know he's finally a Grandpa... Schomaker did not get wet but his GPS took a dive and he lost his car in the HIExpress parking lot... The Depners had a tough call - deciding whether to haul a load of antiques back to Atlanta, or passenger Bruce Abel - a jittery Bruce won the coin toss... Tony Snowball has succumbed to wife Brenda's exercise program - he's lost 50lbs, but oooh, those leash burns on his neck... Peggy Maser is a serious Pirates fan, husband Dick is merely a serious fanatic... Billy & Nancy Knoch were spotted on porpoise patrol with G-kids at the Venice Inlet... Vinnie Malone lost his false teeth and gave up search at 3AM... Reunion guests from WV and other NH classes were duly impressed by our strong class comraderie... Jimmy Schmidt, recovering from three recent operations, managed 12 holes of golf, and was rewarded with an on-course phone call telling him his daughter was having twins... Richie Heil did his usual stellar job organizing the 8-player golf outing... At different intervals, Blackie and BB Bollen attempted to walk through Clif's ultra clean sliding glass doors - problem was they were both sober... It was reported culinary virtuoso Dave "Big Otis" Kniess was attacked and bombarded by a flock of intellectual seagulls, but he thwarted the attack, protected his coffee, and survived with only minor wet white spots... Vinnie Malone resumed the search for his false teeth at 8AM... Billy Domke drove long and hard to make the Friday night gala and was happy he did - so were we... Eloise Neidhardt (Dick's wife) is a keeper, and we expect them back next year... Master sailor Harry "Seahewii" Weber wandered off to take a dip in the chilly Gulf of Mexico during dinner at the Beach House Restaurant to the oooohs and aaaahs of his mates... Christine Fischer once again showed with her winning smile and effervescent personality... Natalie Kniess is an avid exercise walker and has the blisters to prove it, but she walks some strange nocturnal routes - just ask Blackie & Rhonda... Several last minute emergency cancellations (Congalton & Jarabin) lead us to believe that next years's attendance will break the 60 marker... Zero tattoo sightings this year... Abel was low man at the golf outing with an 80 - some things never change... Kudos to Dian Heil and Rhonda Blackstock for their efforts as server-uppers, picker-uppers and cleaner-uppers... Janet Stehle and hubby Bob didn't miss a pre or post event - they'll be back... There was a guy who called himself Ron Bernstein present and he professsed to be a classmate - however, he couldn't have been one of our mates - this guy looked too good and way too young to be one of us - keep that shirt on, Bernie!!... and, ooooooh yes, Vinnie Malone found his false teeth at 10:45AM...

ANOTHER SMASHING HOLIDAY LUNCHEON ENJOYED BY ALL; MORE CLASS ACTIVITIES AND GATHERINGS ON THE MENU!!!

Monte Cello's Italian Restaurant traditionally opens its doors at 11:00am.

Our classmates and friends were already lining up outside at 10:30 on Saturday, December 13th, in anticipation of the Fourth Annual NHHS Class of 1960 Holiday Luncheon. We're happy to report there were few to no disappointments.

We hoped for good weather and we got it. We hoped for record attendance and we had it. And we had hoped to see a number of new faces and they were there. Sixty-two (62) classmates and friends attended the luncheon.

This very popular gathering is growing out of control. We're now at a point where we'll be looking for larger accommodations for next year's event. Had there not been a few no-shows, we would have spilled into the restaurant's main dining area.

We were delighted to welcome a number of first-timers including, Bruce Abel, Terry Bartley, Art Bauer, Lou McKibben (Janet Meisinger spouse), Dennis and Ann Rascov, Jean Pfaffle (Bill Pfaffle spouse), Bette O'Connor (Barb Schroeder sister), Harry Weber, Susie Stough and Dennis Sutey. Other guests appearing, Bryan Pritchard'59, Judy Hunt Pritchard'61, Andy Shoupe'61, Carol Zehnder'62 and Bob Imhof'58 (Janet Stehle spouse).

The luncheon was great, the food was superb, the Monte Cello staff handled our checks individually and promptly without incident and the last of the stragglers left a little after 3:00pm. Your patience was appreciated.

But the highlight, once again, was the conversation, the inter-mingling and reconnecting with old friends. The happy buzz of noise and laughter prevailed.

Chairman, organizer and coordinator Don Dieter was unable to attend due to illness and he was missed greatly. However, his efforts and hard work to make this event a successful and annual affair were saluted. Barbara Schroeder and sister Bette, initially picked it up in Don's absence, manned the registration table and passed out the name badges.

What few announcements we had heard Blackie making a failed attempt at impersonating Don Dieter then, Bruce Abel stated that information regarding the date and location of our 50th (2010) class reunion will be forthcoming.

Clif Gaus passed out printed material and spoke briefly on the Fifth Annual Spring Break Mini Class Reunion to be held over the weekend of March 14, 2009 on Anna Maria Island near Bradenton, FL. He reiterated, all are welcome, and with our increasing base of mates living in Florida, and the infusion of the visiting snowbirds, participation has been growing at a steady pace. For more information contact Clif at 805-494-4947 or clif@clifgaus.com.

And lastly, Dick Maser announced that a number of classmates are meeting regularly for breakfast on the second Tuesday of each month at the Eat'n Park on Route 8. Both guys and gals are welcome and more information can be obtained by calling Dick at 412-486-4639 or maserm@verizon.net.

What a great menu of class activities and opportunities to get together we have going for us. Spread the word on next year's December Luncheon -- we're gonna have a pretty large room to fill up!! Photos of those attending the 2008 Holiday Luncheon should be available in the very near future by clicking the PHOTO TAB on the home page of your class website ( www.nhhs60.com )....

RECORD ATTENDANCE EXPECTED AT NHHS'60 DECEMBER CLASS HOLIDAY LUNCHEON!!!

UPDATE: as of December 9, 2008 -- With only a few days remaining until the Fourth Annual NHHS Class of 1960 Holiday Luncheon, it looks like we're going to have a record 71 classmates and guests in attendance. Since our last update on November 17, 2008, we've added Paul Steigerwald (Carol), and friends Andy Shupe'61, Carol Zehnder Shupe'62 along with Bryan Pritchard'59 and Judy Hunt Pritchard'61. Sadly, Roy Myers had to cancel as wife Joyce has recently been diagnosed with a serious illness. (Click on "UPCOMING EVENTS" TAB to see entire list of attendees).

The luncheon, which will once again be held at Monte Cello's Italian Restaurant (Babcock & Thompson Run), has increased in numbers each year. Chairman/Coordinator Don Dieter expects this year's (2008) event to shatter all previous attendance marks.

"We initiated this gathering with the simple intent of getting some of the local Pittsburgh classmates together for a fun lunch," said Dieter. "We had a nice crowd and decided to do it again. In the following years the word spread and more classmates showed up. Out-of-towners began making the trip back and we were off and running," he added.

"Now we're at record numbers and perhaps next year we'll be looking for a larger room to accommodate the growth. Everybody is invited (mates & friends), there are no clicks or barriers. These people actually like each other and it shows. The good times we have and growing attendance proves it," Dieter concluded.

The Saturday, December 13, 2008 Luncheon begins at 11:00a.m. and will last until you decide to leave. A lunch menu will be available as well as individual checks which we suspect will include tax and gratuity -- PATIENCE WHILE PAYING YOUR TAB IS MOST APPRECIATED!!!

A few of this year's newcomers to the luncheon, which we're looking forward to seeing are: Bruce Abel, Art Bauer, Janet Bowser, Jim Etter, Ralph "I'll Be There" Phelleps, Dennis Rascov, Susie Stough, Dennis Sutey, Karen Weiss and Harry Weber. See you ALL there!!

It you, too, would like to join us, contact Don Dieter - call 412-486-3975 or email diet1942@aol.com - and you're in. It's that simple - spread the word!!!

**** FOR A COMPLETE UPDATED (11/17/08) ROSTER LIST OF THOSE CLASSMATES AND GUESTS WHO ARE EXPECTED TO ATTEND, CLICK THE "UPCOMING EVENTS" TAB ON THE HOME PAGE OF THIS WEBSITE!!!!

MARK YOUR CALANDARS: HERE COMES THE DECEMBER HOLIDAY LUNCHEON AND THE ANNUAL FLORIDA SPRING BREAK!!!

The dates for the 4th Annual Don Dieter Class of 1960 Holiday Luncheon, and the 5th Annual Florida Spring Break Reunion - 2009 have been set. MARK THEM DOWN: December Holiday Luncheon -Saturday, December 13, 2008; Florida Spring Break Reunion - Friday, March 13, through Sunday, March 15, 2009. FOR MORE DETAILS AND HOW TO REGISTER AND SIGN-UP, CLICK ON THE "UPCOMING EVENTS" TAB on the NHHS home page...

Classmate Chuck MeHarry Passes Away at Age 65...

Charles "Chuck" S. MeHarry will be remembered by his NHHS classmates as a quiet, fun loving guy. NHHS60News has learned, through information provided by Bill Smith, and confirmed by the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, that Chuck passed away after a lengthy illness on March 24, 2008. Chuck was a long time North Hills resident and owner of Busy Bee Ceramics. He is survived by wife Kathy, two children, Charles W. MeHarry and Karen Jean Swedish (Joe), along with two grandchildren, Melissa Sue and Heather Lynn Swedish. Funeral arrangements were handled by the T.B. Devlin Funeral Home, 806 Perry Highway, Pittsburgh, PA 15229...

THE CLASS OF 1960 LOSES AN OLD FRIEND...

He was known throughout NHHS as "Big Ed," Coach and Mr. Abel. At the age of 92, Mr. Edward G. Abel passed away at Country View Assisted Living in Peterstown, WV, on August 13, 2008.

Mr. Abel, whose son Bruce was a member of the Class of 1960, worked as the Head Custodian at North Hills High for nearly two decades. But that was not all he did.

During the Spring, and following his long days and hours of keeping North Hills High clean, neat and tidy, Mr. Abel headed directly to the baseball diamond to help his friend, Head Coach Guy Guadagnino, work with the baseball team.

In the eyes of many, his participation and assistance in the training and development of those championship teams earned him the title of Coach Abel. He had become Coach Guadagnino's right-hand-man and the unofficial-offical Assistant Coach of the team.

Mr. Abel was a gentleman. He was quiet, polite and a perfectionist. He was also a very strong man. Former NHHS Physics teacher and Class of 1960 sponsor, Mr. Joe Gay, worked with "Big Ed" over several summers. Mr. Gay vividly remembered his excellent work ethic, but mostly, he remembered his strength, concluding, "Ed Abel may have been the strongest man I ever knew."

A memorial funeral service in honor and celebration of Mr. Abel's life was held at the Union Dale Cemetery Chapel on August 15, 2008...

FRED TRYNER: CLASSMATE, ATHLETE, TEAMMATE AND FRIEND PASSES ON...

Fred R. Tryner was a classmate, teammate and friend... Fred died May 22, 2008, in Pinellas Park, FL, after a lengthy battle with Leukemia. He was 67-years-old and passed away peacefully with his loving wife Kathy by his side.

Fred was an upfront guy who liked a few things and he liked them well. He loved people and he loved helping them. He loved his sports and, as a kid, he loved tinkering under the hood of the car. He also loved animals, especially his dogs.

In his early days at NHHS, Fred excelled in football and baseball. He was short on size but compensated with blazing speed. Fred's nickname was "Retread" but it very well could have been "The Road-Runner." His teammates marveled as he got those short legs churning and took off so quickly. They watched the ensuing cloud of dust, and the eventual build up and bolt of lightning speed.

Fred was jersey #33 and the speedy wingback on the football team. He was also the centerfielder on the North Hills championship baseball teams of the late 1950's and early '60's. As the Indians leadoff man, he rarely struck out, and never missed a fly ball to the outfield. On the days when fleet-footed Fred wasn't running the gridiron or patrolling centerfield, he could be found breaking down, or building up, the engine of one of his automobiles.

Following high school, Fred enlisted in the U.S. Air Force. His training during that four year stint led him to a career of helping people. Fred became a EMT, then a EMT and CPR Instructor. His move to Florida in 1975 coincided with that of his then retiring parents. Upon his arrival, he promptly set out to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) and commenced working in both, hospitals and nursing homes. In essence, those moves put Fred firmly on his career path of further helping and taking care of people in need.

He preferred working with the elderly in nursing homes, no doubt dispensing doses of positive reinforcement and encouragement to the residents on a daily basis. Fred believed he could make the biggest impact in nursing homes. His next achievement was becoming a certified MDS (Minimum Data Set) coordinator. With that certificate under his belt, he proceeded onto a lengthy career which included working at Parkway Nursing Home and the Laurelwood Nursing Center in Pinellas Park. At those facilities, he enjoyed the daily satisfaction of helping the residents cope. He helped them make it through their long days, helped them address their problems, and made tomorrow look brighter than today.

Fred's tenure in nursing care was a fruitful experience. Not only did he reap the rewards of his effort but it was at Parkway Nursing Home where he met Kathy, the dietician, who became his second wife. Fred moved onto Laurelwood and remained until his illness forced retirement in 2003. The illness, which was diagnosed as Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia, began to take its toll. So, after nearly two decades of taking care of others, it was Fred who needed the helping hand. He became a regular, in and out, patient at the Bay Pines VA Hospital. According to Fred, they did not let him down and he spoke highly of the hospital and its personnel thoughout his ordeal.

While battling the health issues, Fred kept busy with his sports collection. He collected, bought and sold, football and baseball cards over the internet and boasted owning over 600,000 cards. He also boasted being a life-long Pittsburgh Steelers football fan. And that was easily confirmed by this writer who, on a recent surprise visit to Fred's home after not seeing him for over 45 years, found him proudly wearing a Pittsburgh Steelers Super Bowl Champions T-shirt. It's often said by so many Pittsburgh transplants that, "you can take the person out of Pittsburgh, but you can't take Pittsburgh out of the person. It was clearly evident that Fred's Steelers were part of that lasting Pittsburgh package.

Fred had a best friend named "Fergie," who he loved dearly. "Fergie" was his buddy. At Fred's request, the remains of his friend, who died in 2005 at age 14, will be buried with him. "Fergie" was the pet dog, an old English Sheepdog. It's goes without saying that, in addition to his love of sports, cars and caring for others, our friend loved animals, too.

During the March visit, Fred expressed his desire and interest in attending one of our class reunion gatherings but, he said, "I think I can make it, and then, I just know that I don't have the strength and endurance to do it. I wish I could. Tell everybody hello and that I love them!"

Fred will be missed greatly but he will be remembered forever...

He is survived by wife Kathy (Pinellas Park, FL), his new pet dog and friend "PatC" (Pinellas Park, FL), son Kevin (Atlanta, GA), daughter Kelly Pridgen (Aiken, SC), step-daughter Melissa Bigelow (Pinellas Park, FL), three grandsons and one great-grandson. A Memorial Funeral Service and Interment was held at the Bay Pines National Cemetery in Bay Pines, FL, and Fred was honored by the presence of two U.S. Air Force Officers. All of the arrangements were entrusted to Veterans Funeral Care of Clearwater, FL. Should you wish to express your condolences to Fred's wife and family, please send to: Kathy Tryner, 6900 78th Avenue North, Pinellas, Park, FL 33781...

“THE GOOD TIMERS” OF NHHS’60 POST ANOTHER SUCCESS AT ANNA MARIA ISLAND SPRING BREAK IV!! NEXT YEAR’S DATES RELEASED – MARCH 13-15, 2009

All yunz guys who didn’t make it dahn to Florida for Spring Break missed a very nice happening. We didn’t have any Pittsburgh basics like chipped-chopped ham or Mancini bread, and we couldn’t even find a cold frosty Iron City beer. There were no “STILL MILLS” in sight either, but we did sizzle in the sun and fun of Florida. The “good timers” from the NHHS class of 1960 had arrived.

The real ingredients, a bunch of your old classmates and friends, gathering with the mere intent of having a smashing good time did not disappoint. We continue to come together like a cohesive school of catfish roaming the Ohio River, appearing to not have skipped a beat in nearly 50 years. As you would suspect, there was plenty jaggin around and just plain hangin’ aht with old friends and mates who share the common denominator of NHHS. There ain’t no clubs and there ain’t no cliques. If you were a classmate or loafed around with us guys and gals from the class of 1960 you were invited. OKLE DOKLE???? OKLE DOKLE!!!!!

Having said that – SPRING BREAK ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND 2008 – is officially underway!!!

Host and Bossman Clif Gaus put together a swell three days. It was almost a gum-band repeat of last year’s winning agenda. Our mates and guests, probably two to three dozen, started arriving Thursday afternoon from various directions and distances. “Most Miles Traveled” awards, if awarded, would have gone to Suzy Ervin who flew in from Colorado – Barbara Schroeder who made the trip from Ohio – and Patty Hudson (Tom) who trolled in from Virginia, and no, they weren’t driving their 18-wheeler. An increasing number of our mates have established permanent residence in Florida and there’s also a sizeable group who annually winter here.

Anyway, after settling into the area we began to explore, ever so watchful of the jagger bushes and slippy walkways that lurked on this quaint little island. A number of us headed dahn to Skinny’s Bar for a hamburg and beer, or a bottle of pop, mostly beer. The burgs were nothing like Pittsburgh’s Jim Delligatti’s Big Macs, but they were voted the best on Anna Maria Island.

Then, after awhile, it was onto the next venture. Like a “bug on the rug,” this small band of “good timers” which included the Blackstock’s (Blackie & Rhonda), Malone’s (Vinnie & Francee) and Dave Millers (Cathy), eased their way ‘aht to Shell’s Restaurant & Bar a few blocks dahn the street to partake in the day long 11am to 7pm happy hour. They were joined by Bossman Cliffy and it was dahn hill from there, like a free fall from Mt. Washington.

Friday morning after some dippy eggs and polish kielbasa, things started rolling again.

Many of the guys easily found their way to the Bobby Jones golf course. For Bruce Abel that was not the case. Abe developed this inexplicable affection for Fruitville road. Super Glue couldn’t not have brought them closer together. In a relatively short time he became a Fruitville road regular. He spent 45 churning-turning minutes, along with a half tank of gas, and couldn’t navigate his way off Fruitville road. And our friend Abe used to fly airplanes for the U.S. Navy. His new Fruitville road friends were even waving at their new Fruitville road buddy each time he passed by. It’s a good thing Fruitville road did not run to Orlando or Bruce may have ended up at Disney World. Mayday calls to his friends were finally answered, they shot him a paragraph of GPS, and he arrived from Fruitville road moments prior to tee time.

Under the auspices and direction of class golf honcho Richie Heil (Dian), the boys wacked the pea around for several hours before eventually winding their way to the 19th hole. It was at that point in time when their real form and expertise kicked in, excelling far more than on the golf course. The elbow-bending round table included, Heil, Abel, Blackie, Malone, Knoch, Schomaker and guest Tommy Heintz (NCHS).

For the others, particularly the gals, it was free time city and you know what that meant – SHOP TIL YOU DROP!! Most of the gals went dahn to that famous St. Armand’s Circle to do their damage while some went antiquing. They lunched at the trendy Columbia Restaurant on the Circle where you saw lots of fancy straw lids on this sunny and windy day. But, hmmmmm??? No Babushka sightings were reported.

We also understand that there were no halupkies or pierogies on the Columbia menu and if one were to have inquired they would have earned “dumbkopf” status and been ordered to serve 30 days of block house duty. The few and the practical stayed close to lodging and home base to either red-up, warsh clothes, do both, or crash and burn on the beach.

At about 4:00pm the alarms went off and all roads led back up-tahn to the Seafood Shack on Cortez road where the entire group convened for happy hour and dinner. The Seafood Shack is located just off a small bay across from Anna Maria Island. The bay looked as though it could pass for a large Pennsylvania Crick. However, this wasn’t your ordinary type Crick. It was dotted with a number of million-dollar boats, docked here, there, and everywhere.

Inside the restaurant, we had a key location and it was clear that nobody was gonna hunch in front of us. The food was better than average, the service was adequate, but the vibrating buzz of conversation from “the good timers” dominated, and that was the intent and the highlight. Our mates mingled and roamed from table to table and from conversation to conversation like they were dancing the Virginia Reel and playing Musical Chairs at the same time.

Our nebby waitress, unbelievably, informed us that there was another group from Pittsburgh in the establishment – from the North Hills, no less – in fact, from North Hills High School. Yes, believe it or not, coincidentally, and amazingly so, the NHHS varsity baseball team and their parents, who were dahn Florida for spring training, were also dining at the Seafood Shack. Go figure!!

Shortly after that note, the gala first day of activity began to wind down and the Seafood Shack festivities broke-up about 9pm with everybody scattering in different directions. Driving in from nearby to attend was Christine Fischer (Jerry), Bradenton; Janet Jarabin (Loren) St. Pete; Rickie Stotz (Chrissie), Ft. Myers; Tony Snowball (Brenda), Orlando, along with the Bill Knoch’s (Nancy) and Bruce Schomaker’s (Donna) from Venice.

Saturday was Pittsburgh Pirates vs Minnesota Twins game day at the beautiful McKechnie Field in Bradenton. A quick turn at the blinker light and we parked for $5.00. Imagine that?? After another batch of dippy eggs and loafin’ around at Popi’s Diner, we excitedly raced dahn to the ball park. One might have thought we were heading through the gates of West View Park on picnic day and on our way to the dips for a free ride. But that illusion didn’t fly and ended quickly – no West View Park and no dips in sight, and definitely, no free rides passing through the ballpark turnstiles. Now I was craving a jumbo sandwich but I knew the southern belle attendant wouldn’t understand. After a dawg and a pop we went searching for our seats.

Those magical memories and our full tummies were trumped by the magic of Bossman Cliffy, who somehow managed to magically scrounge-up 20+ seats to the Pirates final spring training home game. And get this – the seats were all together, in the shade, under cover, on the first base line, behind the Pirates dugout, near the dawgs, the pop, the beer and, most importantly, near the johns. Kudos to Clif, the man has clout and we ain’t kiddin’.

Newly discovered class comedian Barbara Schroeder filled the down time with her clever observations and descriptions of both the game and its’ players, to the laughter of all. “Schroeder” is absolutely hilarious and seems to have a keen eye for Pittsburgh Pirates baseball players wearing tight white pants!! She knows her curves and lines. We watched a terrific game until the final inning when it went dahn the tubes as the Buccos centerfielder dropped an attempted one-handed hotdog catch. He lost the ball, and lost the ball game, all on one simple play. At that point, all we could do was scratch our heads and mutter YOI and DOUBLE YOI - YOI!!!!

Our next destination was, first, to find our way ‘aht of Bradenton, and then, to head back up-tahn and directly over to The Beach House Restaurant on the Gulf for the reunion’s grand finale event -- happy hour, dinner on the beach, and the brilliant Gulf sunset. The Beach House people couldn’t have been more accommodating. We figured Bossman Cliffy must be rubbin’ elbows and loafin’ with the Beach House crew. Our tables, service, location, scenic view was impeccable, over and above expectations. They would have given the North Park Lounge (NPL) a run for their money on service and the LeMont for best view - just kidding, guys, just kidding!!. Classmate Carol Stack drove up from Port Charlotte and was a delightful late addition to the group. And Kenny Stewart (NH’59),wife Cheryl and friend joined our gang for dinner after the game.

In addition to plentiful food and drink, we made our own Danceland Floor to the local on-site entertainment. Of course it was minus the spinning sparkling glass globe and the Bobby Vinton Band but it was acceptable. We were treated to Louie Armstrong’s “What A Wonderful World” which accompanied the countdown of an absolutely magnificent sunset over the horizon of the Gulf of Mexico.

Yunz guys would have been proud of us. We ate and drank, talked, danced and partied into the late evening. By latest class standards, 10:00pm is considered LATE evening. We could feel the curtain coming dahn. Basically, with many of our mates heading home Sunday morning, many goodbyes and farewells were exchanged and we proceeded to followed the blinker lights home to the best of our ability. Newspaper, radio and television news confirmed there were no reports of misdemeanors or felonies related to, or associated with, North Hills High School.

Sunday morning…. A few of us hung around, crossed the big Crick and found our way ‘aht to the Beach Café on Holmes Beach for a concession stand breakfast. The remaining crew, and last of the Iroquois, included Abel, Ervin, Cliffy, Schroeder, the Snowballs, Millers and Blackstocks. It was a wonderful cool breezy morning, perfect for hangin’ aht and rehashing the previous three days of fun and laughter. After we wrapped it up at the Beach Café, we warshed the sand off our feet, dispensed with our breakfast rubbish and were all invited dahn to Bossman Cliffy’s house on the Canal for a boat ride and beer.

Boating with Clif is always a memorable experience. But one might have thought with the absence of Bruce “The Big Splash” Schomaker, that it might have been a routine once around the island trip and back. But nooooooooo, somehow Bossman, now Captain Cliffy, managed to run his craft onto a sandbar and got stranded in shallow waters, thus, requiring manual assistance to push off. Fortunately there were human beings around to offer free help. For this monumental memory, and maneuver of brain lock, Bossman Cliffy will be awarded a “Mr Yuk Bracelet Award,” minus the skull-and-crossbones.

These mini-reunion trips are always filled with more highlights, sidelights and lowlights than yunz could digest in a Iron City week. Maybe that’s why we enjoy coming back dahn here -- time after time – always something new and different -- always someone jaggin’ somebody about something -- and just having one heck of a frolicking good time. All this while getting together with a bunch of old class mates and friends who we continually come to find ‘aht REALLY ARE better friends than we ever thought them to be.

Next year’s SPRING BREAK V dates have already be posted – March 13-15, 2009 – and it promises to be another great one so plan ahead. There were a lot of classmates who “almost made it” this year, giving us strong suspicion that next year’s roster of “good timers” will be at record attendance level. So if you can find you way ‘aht, and have the means to come dahn next SPRING BREAK V, give it a shot. Yunz’ll have three rivers worth of fun and some new memories to add to your rich memory banks. OKLE DOKLE???? OKLE DOKLE!!!!!

MORE ON YOUR CLASSMATES… Blackie is still living in St Louis and professes to take “one day at a time” and also professes to never miss a meal… Clif Gaus is settling happily on Anna Maria Island and cutting ties with California… Dave “Mil” Miller and Kathy spent a month wintering in Florida this year. They also downsized in Pittsburgh and moved aht to Gibsonia… Bruce Schomaker just survived a knee replacement and plans to retire full time from McCandless Township this summer… Rich & Dian Heil spent three months in Florida this year and seem to be adding a month every year… Janet Jarabin and hubby are longtime residents of St Petersburg and have become Anna Maria Island regulars… Bruce Abel, who remains in Atlanta as a pillar of help to his family, seems to be increasingly exploring the terrain in Colorado these days… Tony and Brenda Snowball both plan to retire in June and hop between their home base in Orlando to their home in England and to their time share on Anna Maria Island… Bill & Nancy Knoch just completed a winter home in Venice. With their children running the family business, they hope to spend more time there… Vinnie & Francee Malone remain in Okeechobee, two hours from Anna Maria Island. Vinman is a golfing regular at the OCC and rarely misses a happy hour… Suzy Ervin was appointed mini reunion official photographer. She’s enjoying her relocation to Colorado and being near her family and spoiling grandkids… Ricky & Chrissie Stotz drove up from their Ft Myers home. Ricky stays busy doing church work and charitable activities and loves it… Barb Schroeder our “class humorist” dabbles in real estate back in Ohio and keeps people laughing when not watching the Pittsburgh Pirates perform… Patty Hudson and Tom are enjoying retirement in Virginia after getting over Tom’s health scare and they aren’t missing those over-the-road 18-wheeler trips… Christine Fischer and hubby Jerry are just a stone’s throw from Anna Maria Island and are reunion regulars. Christine’s retired from teaching and is smiling her way through retirement… Carol Stack, a pleasant surprise reunion addition, still resides in Illinois and is semi-retired. She teaches when she wants to and visits her second home in Port Charlotte when she wants to, also…

“BYE-BYE!!!”

RALPH KARN PASSES AWAY AFTER LONG ILLNESS...

Classmate, friend and all-around "good guy" Ralph Karn passed away on April 4, 2008. His health had been in steady decline over a number of months as he suffered from progressive supranuclear palsy.

Ralph was retired and a very popular and well respected Speech and English teacher and Forensics coach at Bethel Park and Keystone Oaks School Districts. He served on many boards and committees, was an active member of his church and belonged to the Rotary Club where he was a past President and Rotarian of the Year.

A look at his PP-G obituary guest book and the multitude of written tributes confirm his positive, kind and caring nature. He touched and impacted the lives of many -- students, peers and friends. To be remembered in such good spirit is a legacy in itself and a legacy of which to be very proud and one not soon to be forgotten.

Ralph is survived by his wife Carole, two children and five grand children. A memorial service was held at the Christ United Methodist Church in the South Hills on April 8, 2007. If you wish to send a card or condolences to Carole and family the address is: 5184 Orchard Avenue, Bethel Park, PA 15102...

THE NHHS 'COLOSSAL CLASS OF 1960' REUNITES AT 3RD ANNUAL DON DIETER HOLIDAY LUNCHEON!!! FLORIDA SPRING BREAK 2008 COMING UP NEXT...

More than 50 classmates, spouses and guests converged on Monte Cello's Italian Restaurant (Babcock & Thompson Run) for the Don Dieter 3rd Annual NHHS Class of 1960 Holiday Luncheon, Saturday, December 15, 2007. The threat of inclement weather did not deter the masses from attending this popular and ever growing annual event, although there were several cancellations.

The luncheon was scheduled at 11:30AM but our mates started trickling in as the gates opened at 11. Host and organizer Don Dieter, who conceived the luncheon idea and has made it happen for three straight years, worked out all the arrangements with the restaurant, including the dispersing of individual checks per person and/or per couple. Don has done just an outstanding job providing this opportunity to get together with our classmates and friends from nearly 50 years ago. The Holiday Luncheon has become immensely popular and we look forward to it each year. In appreciation, the committee members, representing all of our classmates, presented Don with a framed collage of several memorable sketches from the good old days of West View.

Most of the attendees hailed from metro Pittsburgh and the surrounding area. And this year, we welcomed a number of newcomers, which always adds additional excitement and anticipation to the affair. We were most happy to greet the very attractive Linda McCune, a fun-loving Sandy Reutzel, Judy Vogel, who is on her way to an annual trip to Australia and our man, Paul Steigerwald (Carol), who carved his niche on the wrestling mats at NH. Welcome, welcome, and we hope to see you all again at future luncheons and also at our 50th Class Reunion (2010).

Those traveling the extra mile from afar to attend the festivities included, Barbara Braun (Bellefonte, PA), John and Rhonda Blackstock (St. Charles, MO), Clif Gaus (Anna Maria Island, FL), Dave and Natalie Kniess (Wallingford, CT), Roy Myers (Greenville, PA), Bill Pfaffle (Harmony, PA) and Patty Prince (Turnersville, NJ). Kudos to Ronnie Hasek, who also went the extra mile to join us. Ron is battling MS but, motorized wheelie and all, managed to join us again.

The remaining roster of classmates (spouses) in attendance, and in no particular order, were Spencer Ankeney (Susan), Judy Bach (Frank), Sue Barr, Bob Brant, Ralph Doehla, Teddy Frank, Arlene Hinkel, Peggy Henderson, Joyce Jackson, Ralph Jones, Bob Knaus (Nonie), Bill Knoch (Nancy), Jack Koehler, Anna Mae Krummert, Dick Maser (Peggy), Sandy McClymonds, Dave Miller, Jane Rehorst, Nancy Rockey, Jim Schafer, Bruce Schomaker (Donna NH'61), Roger Stanier, Janet Stehle (Bob WV'58), Mickey Sweeney, Barbara White and Ray Wivell. Among our special guests from other NH/WV classes were, Judy Hunt Pritchard (NH'61) and Bryan Pritchard (NH'59). If we misssed anybody, we apologize.

Last minute cancellations, which we believe to have been mostly weather related, were Janet Bowser, Lesley Ford, John Reilly, Richie Heil, Carol Sweeney, Karen Weiss and Janet Westerwick. Two other notable "no shows" included Ralph Phelleps, the notorious "no show," and Bill "Z" Zimmerman, who apparently could not convince any of the automobiles in his fleet of vehicles to travel out into the doldrums of winter weather. We missed you all!!!

Through the courtesy and generosity of our reunion leader Bruce Abel, who was also unable to attend, each and every one of our mates enjoyed their first drink on Bruce and the class reunion treasury. Bruce phoned in "greetings to all" and the good news request, saying we had some extra money in the reunion account, and since this was a reunion of sorts, he and the class were treating. Yummmmmmy, that Bloody Mary sure was good!! From all your classmates.... THANKS, BRUCE!!!

From our vantage point, and from the constant mingling, and the volume of the buzz of conversation, it appeared as though a good time was had by all. As we plunge further into the fourth quarter of life, it is both a pleasure and a privilege to have the wonderful opportunity to reconnect with our old friends and classmates from NHHS 1960. And what a delight to hear the many success stories, see the happy faces, and to know that we really did go through school with a tremendous bunch of classmates. We're proud to be a part of it and proud to have guys like Don Dieter and our reunion committee members keeping the ball rolling forward. Photos from the 2007 luncheon should be up on the class website in the near future.

The next class venture -- SPRING BREAK - ANNA MARIA ISLAND, FL, MARCH 28-30, 2008. Clif Gaus announced the upcoming repeat of Spring Break and reminded us to stay tuned for more details to come on the class website - www.nhhs60.com ...

Blackie updated us on the class bio-profiles on the website and reported that over 130 bio-profiles have been written on our mates to date and are posted and that there are still many more (360 total) to complete. We would appreciate if you could send your brief career, life, family, hobby, etc, bio-information to him if you have yet to do so. And please, let us know of any changes to your contact information so that we can keep you current - Thanks!!

On a closing note, classmate and friend Ralph Karn would liked to have been with us at the luncheon, but he is enduring some serious health problems. Wife Carol tells us that Ralph is weak, but comfortable, enjoying his family to the utmost and he sends his holiday greetings and thanks to all of his well-wishers. Should you wish to send Ralph and uplifting card or email here is where to send it: RALPH KARN, 5184 Orchard Avenue, Bethel Park, PA 15103; email - rckarn@comcast.net ...

Stay healthy, stay happy and stay in touch -- all the bests for 2008!!!

www.nhhs60.com

NEWS FROM MARY DEITRICH: GREELEY, COLORADO

(edited - e-mail received from classmate Mary Deitrich Capra)

To Our Dear Friends,

We want to let you know that (my husband) Ed passed away late yesterday afternoon (November 6, 2007) after his long battle with pulmonary fibrosis. In his last months, he grew increasingly weak and was not able to maintain his weight or strength. In the final days, he was surrounded by all of us as he rested comfortably at home in his own bed. Ed eagerly heard your emails and phone calls and understood he was loved by all of us. Dad (Ed) knew his time was now complete with us here and he was ready to move on to a better place.

We would like to express our sincere thanks and gratitude for all of your love and support which helped us in ways we cannot measure.

Love, Mary, Jeff and Beth

Address:
Mary Deitrich Capra
2214 20th Street
Greeley, CO 80634

Memorial visitation - 2:00-5:00PM, Sunday, November 11, at the Allnutt Funeral Home - Macy Chapel, 702 13th Street, Greeley, CO 80631 (970-352-3366.

Funeral services - 11:00AM, Monday, November 12, at St. Mary's Catholic Church, 2222 23rd Avenue, Greeley, CO 80634, followed by a luncheon at the church.

TERRY BARTLEY LOSES WIFE OF 41 YEARS TO LYMPHOMA...

(edited from Terry's email)

Many of you haven't seen much of me this year because I have been helping my wife deal with lymphoma. I am sad to report that Kitty passed away Saturday (September 8, 2007) peacefully at home. She was being treated in a Medical Center and came down with pneumonia a couple weeks ago and chose to enter hospice at her home where her condition steadily declined. We were with her continually, tending to her needs.

Kitty's death is a great loss for our family, me particularly, but also to the Waterchem Inc. (family business). She was a wonderful wife and mother. The intelligence and common sense she brought to our business was a large reason for its' success. Her grace and absolute politeness perfectly balanced my often blunt manner. Her delicate physique was, in part, what attracted me to her. Unfortunately, she wasn't strong enough to resist this dreadful disease. Kitty donated her body to science and to the Maryland State Anatomy Board.

My family and I invite you to be with us to celebrate the life of Kitora Ann, my dear wife, at the following times and locations: A visitation with the family will be Friday, September 14 (2-4PM; 6-8PM) at the McComas Funeral Home, 1317 Cokesbury Road & MD Rt7, Abingdon, MD 21009, (410-676-4600). And a memorial service will be held at The Church of the Holy Trinity, 2929 Level Road, Churchville, MD 21028 (410-836-2227).

Sincerely,
Terry (Bartley)

(PS: If you wish to send a card to Terry and family, their address is: 1404 Revere Court, Bel Air, MD 21015...)

BILL CORLEY JOINS THE NHSD SPORTS HALL OF FAME...

Now for some good news!!!!

Classmate and teammate Bill Corley will be inducted into the NHSD SPORTS HALL OF FAME at a special awards dinner and ceremony on Thursday, September 20, 2007. The festivities will continue Friday night, when this year's HOF class of five inductees will be introduced at 7:00pm, prior to the Penn-Trafford vs North Hills football game at Martorelli Stadium.

If you would like to attend and join the celebration and induction dinner, and/or football game, you can do so by calling Chelle Zimmerman (NHHS) at: 412-318-1438, or emailing her at: zimmermanM@nhsd.net. The buffet dinner will be at the NU-Babcock, 3382 Babcock Road (across from the old Jergel's) at 6:00pm, and the cost is $30.00 per person.

This could provide a great opportunity to pay respects to Corley and for some of the old 1960 classmates to get together again.

As you may recall, Bill was a three-sport athlete, playing football, basketball and running track. From his freshman year at Sam Ham, to West View High, to North Hills and onto the College of William & Mary, Corley accumulated 22 letters. He was captain and MVP of the NH track team and set a school record in the 440-yard-dash that lasted over a decade. He also won the MVP in basketball and received a football scholarship to William & Mary.

At W&M, he established himself as the go-to receiver in his sophomore year by, reportedly, catching 15 passes in one football game and setting the school record. Then assistant coach, Lou Holtz, now looking back remembers Bill as, "a big time receiver." In the Fall of his freshman year, Corley walked on, made the basketball team and lettered all four years.

Next he tried out successfully for the track team and participated in several events. Bill established the W&M school record in the 330-intermediate hurdles and qualified for the Penn Relays each year, while being awarded another four letters.

Since Bill graduated W&M in 1964, no other athlete has matched his mark of winning three letters, in one year, in three entirely different sports. Corley is also the only W&M football player on a full football scholarship to be elected President of the Student Government.

Other notable sports achievements: Certified Indiana State High School Basketball Referee and State Certified Track Starter; appointed President of the "Indianapolis 500 and brickyard 400 Festival" in 1998; through his prominence in the healthcare field, Bill recruited the NBA Indiana Pacers and the WNBA Indiana Fever to join his effort to promote a city and statewide physical fitness campaign.

Corley earned his master's degree in Health Administration from Duke University, volunteered for Vietnam and got his wish, serving as Director of Planning and Operations at the 3rd Army's Field Hospital in Saigon, the premier hospital in southeast Asia.

Currently Bill is President and CEO of Community Health Network of Indianapolis, a position he has held for the last 28 years. His responsibilities include, overseeing five hospitals, six immediate care centers, three nursing homes, numerous other health facilities and managing a team of 10,000 associates.

A recent front page article in the Indianapolis Star, featuring Bill and the opening of one of his hospitals, called the successful opening, "a reflection of Bill Corley's drive." The article further stated, "Bill Corley is a hospital leader in the United States, (he's) focused on the patient and health-care quality.

In 1990, Bill received the state of Indiana's most coveted and prestigious honor -- "THE SAGAMORE OF THE WABASH AWARD." This award was presented to Corley by then Governor Evan Bayh and was the highest civilian honor the Governor of the state could bestow upon a civilian.

Thus, he joined a list of previous recipients, including astronauts, presidents,, ambassadors, artists, musicians, politicians and ordinary citizens who contributed greatly to the heritage of Indiana by rendering a distinguished service to the state and/or to the Governor.

The term Sagamore was used by American Indian tribes of the region when referring to a great man amongst the tribe, to whom the chief would look to for wisdom and advice.

Corley now teams with former North Hills teammate Bruce Abel, as the second of our 1960 classmates to be inducted into the NHSD SPORTS HALL OF FAME. Bruce, who also excelled in three sports and played quarterback at the US Naval Academy, went into the SPORTS HALL OF FAME with the class of 1997.

Bill and wife Angela live in Carmel, IN. They have two grown children, Matt (wife Lori) and Julie.

CONGRATULATIONS BILL CORLEY!!!

Your collective achievements clearly represent footsteps to be followed!!!

English Teacher Dead at 98.....

Perhaps you had Ms. Burchinal for class and have fond memories, or perhaps not. Ms. Beryl Burchinal, an English teacher, who we believe replacded the popular "Ma" Turner as we moved from West View High to "The Hill," died August 25, 2007. She was 98 years old. Ms. Burchinal taught at the NHHS from 1958 until she retired in 1973. She grew up attending a one-room school house and actually taught in a one-room setting during her earlier teaching days. Ms. Burchinal earned her BA and MBA in education at the University of West Virginia along the way and was an educator for 43 years. In her days after retirement, she dedicated her time and effort to tracing her family's genealogy and history, of which, she was very proud...

ARLEEN FISHER PASSING AWAY CONFIRMED...

Rumors that Arleen Fisher passed away have been confirmed by a co-worker and a check of the SSDI. Arleen had reportedly just retired in 2005 after over 20 years as Administrative Assistant at A.C. Dellovade, Inc. Our red-headed classmate, who was dedicated to the NHHS chorus while in school, lived in Mt. Lebanon.

Although not married at the time of her death, her previous married name was Carroll. We were told that shortly after retirement, Arleen developed painful health problems that effected her mobility, but her passing on May 7, 2006 of last year, was viewed by friends as sudden.

At Arleen's request, there was no visitation, no service, and no published obituary...

SAD NEWS FROM YORK, PA....

We've just learned that classmate George Kall passed away August 2, 2007, apparently due to a fall and fatally striking his head.

We all remember George as perhaps the brightest student in our class of 360 mates. He was a dominate force on the NHHS debate team, a member of the National Honor Society and gave the commencement speech at graduation.

George went on from NHHS to Carnegie-Mellon University where he studied chemistry and earned a BS degree. He then attended the University of North Carolina State University where he was awarded a masters degree. George joined the PH Glatfelter Corporation as a chemist and remained there for 38 years until retirement.

Along with wife Joan, George put it all together -- a successful professional career and a wonderful life as a husband, father, grandfather and friend. He played an active role in his church and community as a member of the Red Run United Church and served on the township's zoning board.

In his free time, along with spending quality time with family, George enjoyed gardening and working in the yard. He could be frequently seen cruising the lawn from atop his nifty John Deere. And, we understand his Christmas light house decorations were a sight to see.

We last saw George in Pittsburgh back in February. He traveled to the North Hills to pay funeral visitation respects to Helene Kight Abel, another of our classmates, and one of George's childhood playmates and friends from Homekort Avenue in West View.

In addition to wife Joan, George is survived by four children, Gil, George III (Melissa), Elizabeth (Doug) and Denise, along with four grandchildren.

A funeral tribute was held on August 6, 2007 in York, PA and his obituary was published in the York Daily Record and York Dispatch on August 4, 2007.

If you wish to send a card to Joan Kall and the family, the address is: 2555 Lori Drive, York, PA 17404....

ALUMS OF THE NHHS CLASS OF 1960 STEP BACK TO THE HAPPY DAYS OF A GENUINE 1960'S SPRING BREAK ON FLORIDA'S ANNA MARIA ISLAND....

Our NHHS'60 SPRING BREAK2007 was simply outstanding. The 1950's-60's ambiance of Anna Maria Island was every bit as dashing as our host, Mighty-Mite Clif Gaus, painted it out to be. Connie Francis of "Where the Boys (and Girls) Are" fame would have been proud of us. The weatherman had to be watching over us also - it was perfect, perfect and perfect!!!!!!

And what a happy cast of characters made it happen. In no particular order here are those good people who attended the weekend mini reunion festivities: Bruce Abel, Ronnie Bernstein (Anita), Janet Bowser, Blackie, Carol Congalton (John), Christine Fischer (Terry), Bill Domke, Richie Heil (Dian), Dave Kniess ("Squeaky"), Dick Maser (Peggy), Dave Miller (Kathy), Bruce Schomaker (Donna), Billy Knoch (Nancy), Vinnie Malone (Francee), Ricky Stotz (Chrissie), Janet Jarabin (Loren), Tony Snowball and, of course Clif Gaus. Our guests included: Kenny & Cheryl Stewart (Class of 1959) and Tommy & Annice Heintz (North Catholic). They came from near and the came from far and if you were a member or friend of the NHHS Class of 1960 you were invited!!!!!

If you weren't there.... WE MISSED YOU!!!!!!

Abel joined his NH mates for Spring Break after a drive of many miles and hours from a Naval Academy football reunion in South Carolina. His hurried departure reportedly left his former football coach lying face down on the cart path of a golf course and in the hands of the local EMS (great story, ask Bruce!). Somehow the bleary-eyed and fatigued Abe still managed to shoot a clean 78 at Sarasota's Bobby Jones Golf Club Saturday morning...

Talk about retirement support! Bernstein reports he's now (sort of) retired - now we understand. Wife Anita was promoted to VP of an engineering firm and Bernie's glowing over, and grooming, the baseball talents of his young son Jacob, while molding him into the next Billy Mazeroski!!!... A very happy-go-lucky Janet Bowser, who owns a B&B in Somerset, PA, is part owner of a wine producing vineyard and has a winter residence in Punta Gorda, played golf and hung out with the boys Saturday and held her own quite well...

Blackie bounced from here to there, never missing a happy hour or the opportunity for another meal -- obviously -- while taking it all in and wondering how in the world he would ever be able to convey the sights and sounds of this exhilarating experience back to you all... Locals Carol Congalton and Janet Jarabin had the foresight to bring along their 1960 yearbooks. Some found the old photos in the NORHIAN more amusing than others. It was also rumored Carol & Janet did some serious shopping damage at the famous and upscale St. Armand's Circle district during their free time...

The tall and slender Christine Fischer may have won the Happy Face award. She wore a smile from ear to ear from the time she arrived Friday until she left Saturday night. We don't know of anybody who had a better time mingling than Christine. Although she is now retired, it's easy to see that she was an excellent high school teacher and communicator..

Bill Domke - what a pleasant surprise to have him rejoin his mates for the first time since graduation. Bill reportedly arrived in Florida about the same time as Ponce-de-Leon....years ago. Seriously, Bill has been living in Naples for nearly 40 years and even built his dad a house right down the street from his own. What a SUPER payback... Richie Heil stepped up with some local knowledge, organized the golf activities, and has earned the title of Spring Break Golf Chairman. Rich and Dian are Florida residents 2 and 1/2 months a year, and next year, it may be 3...

Dave "Dr. Fakes - Big Otis" Kniess STILL has a larger collection of fakes than the 3 Stooges. KKAAAAACHEEEEW!!! He, along with wife "Squeaky," also have more Florida contacts through his travels and culinary experiences than contact has pills in a plastic bottle. Their discovery of Shell's Restaurant & Bar and the 11AM til 7PM "2-4-1 happy hour" may have been the most important find since the discovery of the Fountain of Youth... Dr. Fake's was also kind enough to chauffeur "the girl's" and a few stray hubbies to the popular Red Barn Antique & Flea Market during Saturday's free time slot...

Dick & Peggy Maser and Dave & Cathy Miller drove down to Anna Maria Island and parlayed their Spring Break Weekend into 2-weeks of vacation, visiting old friends and exploring along the way. Mil is happily retired, but who wouldn't be after all those years with the IRS. Maser reminds us that he's carrying a carafe of knowledgeable wine information these days and that he is available for consultation at the PA State Store out on Perry Hwy, just north of 3 Degree Road...

Schomaker created some Sunday morning excitement (no surprise there!) while taking a boat ride around the island. The "ShoeMan" was reaching out to help dock the boat in which he was cruising, and, as he reached out to grab hold of the pier, the pier went one way, the boat went the other and the "Shoe" ended up plunging into the chilly waters. Abe and Blackie reacted quickly to save "Shoe" from sinking, while Clif did the next best thing - ran for his camera so that he could record this hilarious happening. "Shoe" was saved, Clif got his photo, and "potential DISASTER turned to LAUGHTER!!!"...

Billy Knoch spent the weekend driving up and down highway 41 between Anna Maria Island and his new home in Venice, experiencing one traffic jam after another while playing taxi cab. "Knochers" did a nice round of golf Saturday and made an impressive appearance at the 19th hole in the Cradle Bar... First to arrive Friday at McKechnie Field in Bradenton was Vinnie & Francee Malone. They drove in from their home in Okeechobee and the Vinman worked the crowd nicely as he usually does. Francee particularly enjoyed the Kniess' outing to the Red Barn. We were sorry to hear that upon their return trip home Sunday, they discovered their pet dog Shadow had passed away. This was their second lost dog (Foo) in the past month...

Ricky & Chrissie Stotz did an "up & back" from Ft. Myers and joined us for the Saturday evening happy hour and dinner festivities. Unexpected changes to their scheduled weekend plans limited them to a Saturday only visit... Tony Snowball, found a way to abandon his 18-wheeler for the weekend, sent his wife on a cruise to the Caribbean (what a guy!!) and enjoyed the hell out of seeing his old mates from NH. Tony has a time-share residence on Anna Maria, so he spent his free time cleaning up around the house and hosing it down. Already once retired, Tony is now living out a childhood dream of driving a big truck all across the country... Our congenial host Clif Gaus seemed to be everywhere at the same time, looking after all of his mates, entertaining, checking details, managing the time frames, and yes, enjoying one libation after another...

BULLETIN: Bill "Z" Zimmerman, the "man in demand," was slated for attendance but was stricken with a bout of "sometimer's disease" and couldn't find his way out of Pennsylvania. Then to his dismay his little RED CAR blew out three tires and sprung an oil leak, thus forcing him to cancel his reservation at the Sarasota Ritz-Carlton Hotel. Maybe the next mini reunion in December will be more accessible, that's if he can remember how to get back to Pittsburgh... The Florida locals and NO-SHOWS included, Freddie Tryner, Janet Bairhalter, Charanne Jones, Harry Weber, Jimmy Schmidt, Ron Barr, Dave Randolph, Matt Kearns and Wendy Johnson. We can't bring the reunions any closer to your door step guys!!!!

Soooo, you ask, what did we do over our Spring Break?? Well, we caught up on old times, updated the years since graduation, re-acquainted and got to know each other again. As if we already didn't know, we came to find out and reconfirm what a totally nice bunch of classmates we were united with at North Hills High. Otherwise, we did what typical Spring Breakers do - we played - we got sunburned - we drank and ate and drank - we marveled at the beautiful soft white sand and the gulf shore waters - we golfed - we shopped - we laughed - we hugged - we talked, talked, talked - and we had one hell of a good time doing it all.

From the Yankees vs Pirates baseball game (Buccos won 3-2) on Friday, which kicked-off the weekend, to the evening happy hour and dinner at the Seafood Shack on the Manatee River, we remembered the good old days. From the early Saturday morning golf, to the caravan to the Red Barn Antique & Flea Market, to St. Armand's Circle shopping, and onto happy hour and dinner at the Bradenton Beach - Beach House Restaurant, we laughed and reminisced. And, from the informal Sunday breakfast at the Cafe on the Beach at Holmes Beach until the final departures on Monday, it was a continuation of the same.

Those of us who took to the backroads will not soon forget Shells Restaurant&Bar, Skinny's Dive Bar Shack (best hamby on the island), Sharkey's, the Anchor Bar, Vaccarro's, the Tortuga, the Sand Pebble, the HI Express and the Econo"Alamo"Lodge.

Our NHHS Spring Break was not long enough. We could have gone on and on. It was apparent that there was a common bond amongst our Spring Break classmates. After all, we were all together at a very special time in our lives, in a very special town, with a very special group of people -- our classmates from the NHHS great Class of 1960... And on this designated weekend, we just kind of picked it up where we left off in June of 1960. Kudos to Mighty-Mite Clif Gaus for the vision, the organization, and for pulling this off... If anyone had a bad time, they concealed it well...

There's a Mighty-Mite of a good chance that next year on Anna Maria Island we'll be celebrating our "2nd Annual NHHS Spring Break Vacation." If you were a classmate, or a friend of the Class of 1960, then that is your ticket and invitation to join us. Anna Maria Island is just a short jog from Tampa/St.Pete. Join us next year if you can - you'll have a great time, we'll make sure of it - WE PROMISE!!!!!

In closing... if YOU had to pick one missing ingredient - and you were not there - then that missing ingredient would be YOU!!!!!!!

ALL TOGETHER NOW....... "THANK YOU, CLIF!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"


(Spring Break Photos Coming Soon - look for them at www.nhhs60,com under PHOTOS tab)

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Our next scheduled Class of 1960 gathering will be:

"THE 3RD ANNUAL DON DIETER CLASS OF 1960 HOLIDAY LUNCHEON"

Saturday, December 15, 2007 at 11:00AM - ??????
Monte Cello's Italian Restaurant - Babcock&ThompsonRun Road
(the old McSorley's & Pat McBride's)
call Don Dieter for reservations&details @ 412-486-3975