Alumni News and Information Archives Page A Teacher Remembered Dorothy J. Munger, 94, of Urbana, passed away Monday, December 5, 2011, at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana. She was born November 25, 1917 in Shelbyville, Indiana. Miss Munger graduated from Shelbyville High School in 1936. She continued her education at MacMurray College in Jacksonville, where she received her Bachelor's Degree. Later, she received her Master's Degree at the University of Illinois. Miss Munger started teaching in the Commerce Department at Champaign High School during 1939. She was at CHS for 38 years as a teacher, department head, and retired in 1977 as Dean of Girls. (Source: The News-Gazette, Wednesday, December 7, 2011.) Miss Munger always had a good laugh when sharing a personal story from one of her early years of teaching at CHS. Mr. Carl Allison was a demanding Principal at that time. He used to stand in the office watching the clock in the morning. At 8:00 a.m., he would draw a line beneath the name of the last teacher to sign in "on time," and would speak sternly to those who were late. One morning, Miss Munger could not arrive on time, because the circus had come to town and the elephants were parading tail-to-trunk down Randolph Street. She gave that excuse to her colleagues and to her Principal. The following morning she found an information brochure from Alcoholics Anonymous in her mailbox. (Source: The Tattler (Original title of CHS newspaper), 80th Birthday Edition, May 6, 1995) Miss Munger was a favorite teacher for the CHS Class of 1953. She was a special guest for many of our class reunions. Along with teaching many of our class members where the "home row" is on the typewriter, Miss Munger was sponsor for the Commercial Club of which Phyllis Lichtenwalter was President; Sarita Alexander was Vice President; Tresa Petersen was Corresponding Secretary, and Ruth Woodworth was Treasurer. Other 1953 class members in the Commercial Club were: Leona Gericke, Monika Loerke, Sue Maley, Treva McWethy, Carol Merrifield, Shirley Pheris, Shirley Price, and Joyce Simpson. (Source: The 1953 Maroon, page 83) Submitted by: Phil Matteson Sunday, December 11, 2011 CHS HAPPENINGS 60 YEARS AGO IN THE CHRONICLE "Flamingo" Includes Murder, Mob Out of the dark times of the French Revolutionary Period comes "Black Flamingo," a play which will hold its audience from the first curtain to the last curtain call! A two-night run on Thursday and Friday, with the first curtain going up at 8:00 p.m. as planned. Activity ticket holders will be admitted free. Other tickets are on sale at 50 cents for students, and 60 cents for non-students. "The play is extremely challenging, and while it is difficult for the actors, staff and director, all are enjoying their work on it," Miss Marian Stuart, the Director stated at rehearsal. Opinions from several of the actors were obtained..."Boy! What a scoundrel. Never have I read of such a scavenger!" This came from John Wilson in regard to his part as one of the villains. Lloyd White finds the part of Popo becoming quite a challenge. Donna Davis said..."I've seen many flighty people in my day, but Clotilde takes the cake!" Clotilde, played by Donna, is a young maiden who falls in love with Popo. First Quarter Ends Whoopie!! Two and one-fourth months, nine weeks or 63 days. However it is termed, the first quarter of the 1951-1952 school year is now over. + Early to bed, Early to rise, And your gal goes out with six other guys Class Committee to meet Monday Junior Ring Committee will meet in Room 128. Lloyd White is the chairman, and Donna Davis, Phil Brown, Bob Slade and Barbara Cook comprise his committee. They will be assisted by the class officers, Phil Matteson, Helen Worsham, Betty Stilwell, and Sharon Lappin. + Confucius says: People who cross ocean twice and no take bath are dirty double crossers. CHS, Tigers renew battle at UHS Field The mass hysteria that engulfs the twin cities of Champaign-Urbana every year about this time is again upon us. The year 1951 seems due to present a more exciting inter-city battle than has been since 1942. In that year, Urbana muddied Champaign to a 20-0 victory. Don Pittman, a reserve coach at CHS now, played on that UHS 1942 team. From all reports, Urbana that year had a better edge on Champaign than the score indicated. The next year, CHS reversed the situation. On the record are 33 wins for CHS and 8 for UHS, tied four times. Champaign has scored 691 points and Urbana 209. In 1928, a forfeit by Champaign gave Urbana a 1-0 win. The Maroons, under Coach Les Moyer, were forced to give up all games that year after a winning season, when it was learned one of the players was 22 years old and ineligible. Source: The Chronicle, Vol XXVI, Friday, November 2, 1951, No. 7 Submitted by: Phil Matteson on November 7, 2011 A CLASSMATE REMEMBERED An e-mail communication has been received from Joanne Lewis who wanted to inform CHS 1953 classmates that her husband, Tom Lewis, passed away last year on April 15, 2010 unexpectedly of a heart attack. Tom was born January 24, 1935 to Leonard L. and Annabelle B. Lewis. During the early 1950s, the family lived at 809 West Hill Street. Tom's dad operated a small neighborhood grocery store at 504 North Prairie Street in Champaign. In ninth grade at CJHS, Tom was in Homeroom 9-9. He played tackle on the grid squad that beat Urbana 26-0. Also, Tom was active in the Projector Club, which had members run projector machines and keep them in good repair. At CHS, Tom played tackle on the football team during his sophomore, junior and senior years. Also, he participated in wrestling during his junior year and became a "C" Club member during his senior year for his football letter award. After high school graduation, Tom enlisted in the US Army and completed some service time in Germany. Out of the army, he attended a school of ministry in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. While in Wisconsin, he met Joanne and they were married in June 1960. Their family consisted of twin sons and three daughters. During his working years, Tom worked for Sunstrand Corporation in Rockford, sold trailers in Wisconsin, bought and remodeled houses in the Houston, Texas area, and sold solar panels for the past ten years in Spring, Texas. The caption under Tom's senior picture in the 1953 Maroon says...."A fellow with legs a little longer than the usual plan. " (Source: Joanne Lewis e-mail Tuesday, October 4, 2011; Reba Lewis, Tom's sister, telephone conversation Wednesday, October 5, 2011; CJHS 50-Retro pages 44, 52 and 74; Maroon 1953 pages 31 and 94.) Submitted by Phil Matteson October 9, 2011 SPECIAL RECOGNITION FOR COACH STEWART Coach Tommy Stewart was the featured guest at the 83rd Annual "C" Club Alumni Reunion Dinner on Saturday, October 8, 2011, at the Round Barn Banquet Center in Champaign. During the program, the 2011 "C" Club Hall of Fame inductees were introduced. Then, former coaches and players talked and recounted stories about Coach Stewart. At the end of the program, it was announced that tomorrow (October 9, 2011) is Coach Stewart's 86th birthday. The group sang Happy Birthday to Tommy. CHS 1953 classmates in attendance were Terry O'Neill, Captain of the 1953 Varsity football team, and Phil Matteson, a bench-warmer specialist. Note: The only CHS classmate inducted into the "C" Club Hall of Fame is Ola Bundy in 1992. Ola was active in GAA along with many other interests in high school. After CHS and University of Illinois graduation, she was a high school teacher in Grant Park, Lansing, and Champaign. She was an assistant executive director at the Illinois High School Association from 1967 until she retired in 1996. In addition to being in the CHS Hall of Fame, Ola was a member in the Illinois Basketball Coaches Hall of Fame, and Golf Coaches Association Hall of Fame. She was a member of the US Olympic Women's Volleyball Committee for the 1972 and 1976 Olympic games. Ola was inducted into the Illinois Girls' Coaches Association Hall of Fame, and the National Federation Hall of Fame in 1996 for her national leadership of girls inter-scholastic athletic programs. She was awarded the U. of I. letter "I" for her participation on U. of I. athletic teams, and received a "Woman of Distinction" in education award. Many referred to Ola as the first lady of Illinois girls athletics. Old died Saturday, February 18, 2006. Submitted by Phil Matteson October 9, 2011 NEWS FROM CHAMPAIGN Theatre patrons enjoyed a walk under the new Virginia Theatre marquee Wednesday night, September 28, 2011. The marquee's lights were lit in the evening for a dedication ceremony that included a brief concert by the Champaign Park District Youth Theatre Group. (Source: The News-Gazette, Thursday, September 29, 2011) Submitted by: Phil Matteson, September 29, 2011 LEGENDARY CHS COACH, TOMMY STEWART, BEING HONORED Coach Stewart became the varsity football head coach four games into the 1953 season, taking over for Fred Major who was ordered by his doctors to retire because of ill health. Coach Major was head coach at CHS for eight years, producing five Big Twelve conference championships, which contributed greatly to the winning tradition that is a part of CHS. (Source: The 1954 Maroon, page 104) Coach Stewart was head football coach for 30 years, retiring in 1983, and he is still a revered icon, even as the 30th year of his retirement approaches in 2013. He always has embodied the character, commitment, dedication and personality that parents want in the role models who influence their teenagers. The feelings of endearment remain strong with his players more than a quarter of a century after Coach Stewart was in their high school lives. A special recognition for Coach Stewart, who is now 85 years old, will take place October 8 in conjunction with the CHS Annual Hall of Fame banquet. Coach Stewart was a three-sport head coach in football, baseball, and swimming. Anyone who played for him is invited to return for an evening that will feature a continuous slide show and a tribute to the coach who guided CHS to its still-standing single season record for wins (10-2 in 1981). (Source: The News-Gazette, Sunday, September 25, 1011) Submitted by: Phil Matteson, September 29, 2011 CHS HAPPENINGS 60 YEARS AGO IN THE CHRONICLE The doors to CHS opened in 1951 to us as the incoming junior class. Five new teachers were added to the faculty. Mr. Don Hamacher filled the position as music instructor and assistant to Director, V. C. Shaul. Mr. Don Pittman is the new driving teacher. Mrs. Melba Reichard is the new girl’s gym teacher, and will help Mrs. Mary Major as co-sponsor of GAA. Mr. Herman Linder is the new aircraft teacher. Mr. H. I. Wick is a new addition in the industrial arts department, teaching wood shop. Do you need friends? A get-together dance will be sponsored by the Student Council following the CHS vs. Mooseheart football game next Friday in the Junior High Gym. Sharon Cruthers was named General Chairman. Barbara Bailey is on the Decorations Committee; Don Scott is Cloakroom Head, with help from Phil Matteson; Larry Hopkins will help with Refreshments; and Chairman of Advertising will be Phil Matteson, with help from Helen Worsham. The Student Council is selling a general activity ticket for $5.75 in full, or $2.00 down and 50 cents every week until paid. Included in this ticket are ten basketball games, six football games, a year’s subscription to the Champaign Chronicle, three plays, the Annual Musical Stage Show, and the Homecoming Dance. How did some classmates spend their summer? Carol Stahl, Barbara Cook, and Sharon Lappin worked as nurses aides at Burnham City Hospital. Mary Ann Stahl visited her aunt in Southern Illinois for two weeks, but stayed home the rest of the time and loafed. Judy Turner went to music camp. Betty Stillwell spent five weeks at a ranch for boys and girls in the Teton Mountains of Wyoming. Helen Worsham was a girl scout counselor in the Ozarks. Barbara Bailey and Julia Clark traveled to Canada for one month. Phil Matteson bought a 1937 Ford and soon sold it while working most of the time as a soda jerk at Adair’s Dairy Bar. In defense of the Big 12 title, CHS will face many problems to hurdle during the four non-conference games preceding the Big 12 race. Where weight is concerned, the CHS forward wall will be one of the biggest in recent years. Tackle-to-tackle weights range from 180 to 190 lbs. The CHS backfield power took a hit, with Terry O’Neill out for six weeks because of a broken wrist. Mr. Dillman, “Why are you late to school every morning?” Terry O’Neill, “Well, every time I get to a corner, a sign says “School, Go Slow!”” (Source: The Champaign Chronicle, Vol. XXVL No. 1, Friday, September 14, 1951) Submitted by Phil Matteson September 14, 2011 SOME NEWS FROM CHAMPAIGN * Congratulations to Bill Hartz. Bill and his wife, Meta, plan to celebrate their 50th Wedding Anniversary with family. They were married September 10, 1961, at Peace Lutheran Church in Thomasboro. They have four children: Kimberly of Tomahawk, Wisconsin; Kristi and Karla of Champaign, and Kara of Paxton. They also have seven grandchildren. Meta retired from the State Universities Retirement System in 2009. Bill still works with Neiman Foods, Inc., County Market. He has now been in the food retail industry for more than 50 years. (Source: The News-Gazette, Sunday, September 4, 2011.) * Early in August, Don Scott and his wife of Palatine stopped in Champaign for a short visit with Phil Matteson and his wife. Don is researching his family history in Champaign County, and was making use of the Champaign County Historical Archives at the Urbana Free Library. * Then, in mid-August, Jim Neal, of Newark, Delaware, visited Richard Haines and his wife in Mahomet. Jim had attended his grandson’s wedding in Yosemite and was returning through Illinois to visit relatives in Chicago, Bloomington, and Peoria. * On August 25, a group of girls in our class had their "4th Thursday of the Month Luncheon" at Old Orchard Lanes. Those attending were: Margaret (Clabaugh) LeGrande, Jean (Decker) Meislahn, Shirley (Hausmann) Schweighart-Soucie, Myrna (Primmer) Anglin, Shirley (Richardson) LeBaugh, Carolyn (Schloz) Hamrick, Nancy (Schubert) Darnall, Lois (Smith) Dunn, and Louise (Smith) Hill. * Also in August, Deak "Sonny" Matteson of Sebring, Florida was here to visit his relatives. Sonny has some health issues and is legally blind. However, he still has plans to build a house and move to Jamaica. * This past Wednesday (August 31), Park Avenue in front of The Virginia Theatre was closed between Randolph and State Streets for arrival of a new marquee. The triangular marquee from the 1940s was removed earlier in the summer. The Virginia Theatre will enter a new era with a new marquee, which is better suited to the building’s antique design from the 1920s, and will make The Virginia appear as its architects originally intended. The theatre was constructed in an Italian Renaissance-style exterior, and Spanish Renaissance-style interior. The theatre is 90 years old, with the lobby areas having undergone significant restoration during the past year, when workers literally peeled back the layers of paint to find the original colors that ornamented the walls during years past. (Source: The News-Gazette, Tuesday, August 30, 2011.) * This past Friday night (September 2) was not like old times. It was the Champaign vs. Urbana Friday night football game. However, all eight sports writers for The News-Gazette had predictions of Urbana winning. However, Champaign won the game 31-28 in the last six seconds of the game. Would you then say, “Champaign upset Urbana”? That would not be like old times. * Finally, some eye-opening statistics from 50 years ago, which would be close to 1953, and today about the Champaign School District. ~ In 1961, the District had an enrollment of 8,532 students, with an annual budget of $6.84 million. It had 506 teachers, consultants and administrators, plus 163 non-academic workers for a 669 grand total. ~ Now, today in 2011, the enrollment is 9,479 students with an annual budget of $103 million. It has 813 teachers, 76 administrators, and 510 non-certified workers, for a 1,399 grand total. (Source: The News-Gazette, Sunday, September 4, 2011.) What a difference! A 947 increase in enrollment, but a $96 million budget increase and 734 more non-certified workers! Submitted by Phil Matteson September 4, 2011 SOME 2011 NEWS FROM CHAMPAIGN One, Two, or Three Champaign High Schools? The future of Champaign Central High School (formerly our Champaign Junior High School building) is currently on the Unit 4 School Board's agenda. This year, the Board will likely vote on whether to build a new high school on one of the seven remote sites on the periphery of the community, or preserve and renovate the current Central location. The price tag for new construction is estimated to be in the $60 to $80 million range, with sites under construction being 70 to 80 acres. The board members have stated four alternative approaches: (1) Do nothing, (2) Purchase land around the Central High School current site for expansion, (3) Build a new third high school, or (4) Build a new freshman-only campus and expand Centennial High School to make a single high school. (Source: The News-Gazette, Sunday, February 6, 2011) Our old "500 Club" is sold! The Champaign County YMCA has sold its historic building at 500 West Church Street in Champaign. The property has been on and off the market for several years. The original mansion dates from 1909-1910, when it was built as the home of David and Rachel Phillippe. Mrs. Phillippe was the daughter of influential Champaign banker B. F. Harris. A citizens' group bought the home in 1938 for use as a YMCA, using a bequest from the late William B. McKinley. The property was long known as the McKinley Memorial YMCA. (Source: The News-Gazette, Wednesday, May 11, 2011) Happy 150th Birthday to Champaign! Champaign has been celebrating 150 years of existence during the past year. A celebration was held to close out Champaign's Sesquicentennial Anniversary. A photo gallery from the event is available online at www.news-gazette.com. (Source: The News-Gazette, Friday, June 24, 2011) Trouble right here in C-U Champaign, Urbana, and several other governments in the county have been funding the Champaign County Convention and Visitors Bureau (CCCVB) to promote Champaign County tourism. Now, the Mayor of Urbana believes that Urbana does not get a discernible benefit from their funding to the organization. So, the Mayor wants to withdraw $72,000 annual funding, which would be a $144,000 loss for CCCVB because of dollar-for-dollar matching grants from the State. This is 23% of the CCCVB total budget and would represent a significant loss of ability to promote tourism. Of course, there was a response and retaliation of sorts from a veteran Champaign council member that maybe participants of festivals and other events could withdraw their venues from Urbana. The same Champaign council member raised the possibility of dropping Urbana from Champaign-Urbana, because of old-fashioned thinking that this is a twin-city. (Source: The News-Gazette, Wednesday, July 13, 2011) Local Photographer shutters shop! Who took your family wedding pictures or portraits? Bob McCandless, 86 years old, is closing his studio after 46 years in business since 1965. Digital photography has hurt the traditional studio business. "I have negatives back to 1965. I'm going to sell them for $10 an envelope, and buyers can have any of the proofs or negatives in them," he said. McCandless has already sent 93 envelopes to the Champaign County Historical Archives at the Urbana Free Library. (Source: The News-Gazette, Thursday, July 14, 2011) Contact Bob McCandless at 217-367-4686 if you think he has a negative of your family portraits. Slow Champaign Real Estate Market In Champaign, the average length of time a home has been on the market is 114 days. As of July 14, The Champaign County Association of Realtors MLS had 2,078 active listings. The last time there were that many listings was four years ago in 2007. Most June sales in Champaign tended to be in the $100,000 - $149,999, and $150,000 - $199,999 price ranges. The selling price for homes ranged from 93-99% of the listing price. (Source: The News-Gazette, Monday, July 18, 2011) Submitted by Phil Matteson Some 2010 News from Champaign * December 2010 was the snowiest December ever in Champaign. A normal year is 26" of snow; however, 20.4" dropped in December, breaking the record of 19.1" set in December 1983. (Source: The News-Gazette December 2010) * An 1893 home, with an extensive 1920s era addition designed by architect, George Ramey, was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Mattis house, located at 900 West Park Avenue, is significant for its intact Georgian Revival style of architecture. The late congressman, William Springer, lived in the home for 22 years. Before Springer, the home belonged to Springer's in-laws, George and Elsie Mattis, prominent residents of Champaign. Mattis was an executive at Trevitt-Mattis Bank, Illinois Traction Co., and Illinois Power. The original two-story frame house faced east toward Prospect Avenue, but the Mattis family ordered the remodel in 1927 to face south toward Park Avenue. (Source: The News-Gazette 12-26-2010) * In mid-December, a ten-year task to compile and publish a history of Robeson's Department Store, and the family behind it, was finally completed and available. The book entitled "Remembering Robeson's" has hundreds of historical photos of the store, which operated from 1874 to 1990. The store employed 225 at one time, and the Robeson family wanted to recognize them "before all the people died." (Source: The News-Gazette 12-18-2010) * Champaign County's population has grown by more than 12,000, nearly 7%, since 2000, according to new five-year American Community Survey estimates by the U.S. Census Bureau. (Source: The News-Gazette 12-15-2010) * In contrast to the national trend, bus ridership in Champaign-Urbana had a record year, according to the Champaign-Urbana Mass Transit District board. It was projected that the bus system would reach 10.8 million rides in 2010. (Source: The News-Gazette - December 2010) * The Virginia Theatre in downtown Champaign has been closed since June to accommodate the marquee replacement and a complete renovation of the theater's first and second floor lobbies. The triangular neon marquee from the 1940s was taken down in early November, with some local historic preservationists trying to stop the removal. Various designs for a replacement marquee have been presented, with the intent to look more like the rectangular marquee that was original to the building in 1921. Features desired: a yellow backdrop for the letters, rounded bump-ups displaying the theater's name, and light bulbs instead of neon around the perimeter of the sign. According to the designs, the bump-ups, being the raised signs that read "VIRGINIA," will be lower than the previous marquee bump-ups in order to expose more of the theater's facade, and upper-level windows. (Source: The News-Gazette 11-30-2010) * A nearly 110 year-old building on University Avenue is undergoing a major renovation. The three-story brick building at 315 East University Avenue will be remodeled into commercial space on the first floor, and apartments on the second and third floors. (Source: The News-Gazette 11-28-2010) Classmates probably remember this building as Hotel Walker, or the Ford Hotel. * The YMCA property at 500 West Church Street has been for sale for at least two years. A possible sale with Owens Funeral Home did not materialize. Groundbreaking for a new YMCA took place in December and fundraising is ongoing. The new YMCA location is in SW Champaign near Staley Road. * The old Harris Mansion, located on West Church Street and Prospect Avenue, is possibly slated for demolition. Classmates might remember this structure as Cole Hospital, which is now operated as The Pavilion. The Pavilion is considering a new facility at this location. Submitted by Phil Matteson A TEACHER REMEMBERED An obituary was published regarding Miss Florence Alston. CHAMPAIGN - Florence Alston, 84, of Champaign, died at 3:05 p.m. Saturday, October 30, 2010 at Meadowbrook Health Center, Urbana. Memorial services will be held at 2:00 p.m Wednesday, November 3, at Morgan Memorial Home, Savoy, with the Rev. Rick Snyder officiating. Visitation will be one hour before the service. Burial will be in Caledonia Cemetery, Sparta, Illinois. Miss Alston was born January 9, 1926 in Perry County, IL, a daughter of Henry E. Alston and Bessie Braden Alston. A sister and one niece survive her. Miss Alston received her Bachelor of Science Degree from Southern Illinois University, and Master's and advanced certificate from the University of Illinois. She taught math in Champaign Unit 4 Schools; was then coordinator of guidance, and was director of program evaluation when she retired. After retirement from the Champaign Schools, she was self-employed as a wood carver. She was a former member of Kappa Delta Pi, Delta Kappa Gamma, Twin City Garden Club, and a long-time member of First Presbyterian Church of Champaign. Memorial contributions may be made to First Presbyterian Church or an organization of the donor's choice. (Source: The News-Gazette, Tuesday, November 2, 1010) At the age of 22, Miss Alston started her teaching career at CJHS for the 1948-1949 school year after receiving her BS from Southern Illinois University. Miss Alston taught practical mathematics and algebra. (Source: The 1949 Retro, page 15) During the next school year, she also taught social dancing. (Source: The 50-Retro, page 6) Some CHS 1953 classmates that should remember social dancing from ninth grade include: Donna Armstrong, Sue Maley, Doris McCown, Virginia Percy, Esther Pittman, Myrna Primmer, Nancy Schubert, Ronnie Selvedge, Joyce Simpson, Carol Sue Stahl, Rita Warmbier, and John Wilson. (Source: The 50-Retro, pages 76 & 77) Submitted by Phil Matteson November 4, 2010 A CLASSMATE REMEMBERED Leonard Lloyd Stevens, 75, of Valparaiso, Indiana, and formerly of Champaign, passed away on Sunday, September 19, 2010 at Horton Hospice Center, Valparaiso. He was born February 6, 1935 in Champaign to Charles and Lillian Luther Stevens. Leonard was a member of First Presbyterian Church of Valparaiso. He was a vice-president of Information Systems. Leonard was known for setting up and formatting the computer systems in Porter County and Tippecanoe County in Indiana for the Voters' Registration in the 1970s, along with computer systems for many corporations in Illinois, Indiana, and Michigan. On August 31, 1956 in Champaign, Leonard married Judith A. Peterson, who survives, along with three children and six grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Charles Stevens. (Source: The News-Gazette, Wednesday, September 22, 2010.) During the 1950s, Leonard lived with his parents at 1008 West Vine Street in Champaign. His father was PX manager at Chanute Field in Rantoul. Leonard's home room at Champaign Junior High School was 9-2. During the first nine-week grading period of ninth grade, Leonard was one of 182 pupils in school on the Citizenship Honor Roll. He was on the same Honor Roll after the second nine-week grading period. (Source: Champaign Junior High School Highlights, Vol. XV No. 3, December 6, 1949.) Leonard was a letter winner on the CJHS grid squad playing at the tackle position. He belonged to the Department of Property service organization, and the Projector Club, learning to operate projectors, along with keeping them in good repair. (Source: Retro 1950.) The Ninth Grade Will stated...."I, Leonard Stevens, will my trusty blue auto, Julius Ceasar, to Johnny Royer." Source: Champaign Junior High School Highlights, Vol. XV No. 7, May 23, 1950.) At Champaign High School, Leonard participated in football during his sophomore and junior years, along with Wig 'n' Paint in his junior year. The caption under his picture in the Maroon reads..."He thinks too much. Such men are dangerous." Submitted by Phil Matteson September 23, 2010 TOMMY STEWART UPDATE On September 1, 2010, Tommy fell and fractured his hip, according to family members. The doctors indicate that hip replacement surgery would be too traumatic. His hip must heal on its own by bed rest and therapy. After the fall, he spent several days in the hospital and is now in a Rehab Center, which was formerly Carle Arbours. Get-well cards and words of encouragement can be sent to: Mr. Tom Stewart Champaign Urbana Regional Rehab Center 302 Burwash Avenue, Room113 Savoy, IL 61874 (Submitted by Phil Matteson) A Teacher Remembered Follow-up A recent posting on our CHS 1953 message board reported the death of Mrs. Tinberg. This message, along with photocopies of articles from our CJHS Highlights Newspaper, was forwarded on behalf of CHS 1953 classmates to Mrs. Tinberg's daughter in Greensboro, NC. The following letter was received: Dear Mr. Matteson and CHS 1953 Classmates, Thank you so much for your letter regarding my mother, Eileen (Hopper) Tinberg and the accompanying articles and remembrances. These are very meaningful, not only to me and my husband, but to our son and daughter-in-law, who are excited to add them to the family history they will eventually be able to pass on to their own children. I was overwhelmed by your kindness in sending me the materials. I also appreciate the remembrance you placed on the class web page for the benefit of your classmates not in the Champaign area. Mother loved teaching and had fond memories of all of her classes over the years. She saw the good in every student and frequently recalled fun times and events that had occurred in the classroom and with plays and other extracurricular activities throughout the years. She was happiest when she felt she was having a positive influence in the lives of others, especially her students. After Mother's teaching career ended in Phoenix due to mandatory retirement, she and my father enjoyed several years of well-earned relaxation together. After his passing in 1992, Mother recognized another area where she could be a positive influence and moved to Maryland to be near us and her only grandchild. She loved babysitting and helping with our son's intellectual development. When he became involved with athletics she also enjoyed attending his games, though she never grasped the nuances of soccer. One of my great memories is returning home one day when he was 8 and she was 80 to find them playing a spirited game of baseball in our back yard. Probably her two proudest moments occurred last year when he was married and when he graduated magna cum laude from college. When we moved from Maryland to North Carolina almost four years ago, we helped Mother find an apartment near us. She was passionate about her independence and lived there until just after last Christmas, when after 96 years she just started wearing out. Pulmonary embolisms finally were too much for her system to overcome. Her passing was peaceful and our abundant memories of her are all happy. Once again, I am grateful for the items you sent and the time and effort you spent collecting them for me and my family. They are and will be much treasured. My very best wishes, Elaine VanderLinden (Submitted by Phil Matteson) A Memory Maker - Tommy Stewart Mr. Stewart, our coach and physical education teacher from 1953, continues to receive recognition from local community groups in Champaign, along with articles on the sports page. Recently, in The News-Gazette, Sunday, July 25, 2010, the front page of Section D Sports contains a Sunday Special article on Mr. Stewart. Per the story, some excerpts are as follows: No one coached football like Tommy Stewart. He remains the same person he always has been, a man who's quiet, simple approach to life was perfect for a school, a community, and two generations of students. Now 84, Stewart's body is battling the ravages of time. His arms are thin, he moves with the help of a walker, and his back offers daily trouble. His battle with Parkinson's has visible remnants, including a left thumb that waggles like a flag in the breeze. "I'm running out of gas," he says. While his body breaks down, his mind stands proud and firm. Stewart can recall the first two plays he called in the 1955 football game against Urbana (a criss-cross to the fullback down the middle, followed by a bootleg). He can remember the weather of the 1959 Urbana game (a combination of rain and sleet). He remembers the date he first met Lu, his future wife of 61 years and counting. That was January 31, 1948. He spotted her for the first time at the ice cream parlor in his hometown of Gary, Indiana. Tommy retired from coaching on January 11, 1983...he was 58. At the time he was the winningest active coach in the state, with 207 victories, 199 of those at Champaign. He retired from teaching in 1987. "I'd just had enough" he said. "I did it 34 years." For every memory that Tommy Stewart has, there is a matching one--or more--floating somewhere around Champaign, or Chicago, or anywhere else that former Maroons have landed. It is Tommy Stewart's legacy. (Submitted by Phil Matteson) A Reunion without our Banner It is nice to look forward to the future and plan ahead. Some classmates have started to inquire about our next reunion. Yes....we will continue to gather every five years, and the date of July 27, 2013 will be considered for our 60th Reunion. From past reunions we have used our "Welcome CHS Class of 1953" banner. The same banner was used by CHS 1954 by just changing the 3 to a 4; then, the 4 back to a 3. However, this banner will not be with us at our next reunion, because our Reunion Committee passed the banner to CHS 1960 for their recent 50th Reunion. The following letter was received: Phil and CHS 1953 Classmates, The Class of 1960 thanks you for the banner. It worked out perfectly. We used it as the greeting banner at the registration desk. The Hilton Garden Inn did a fantastic job. The meals were great and the service was splendid. Again, thank you, and we will be passing it on to the Class of 1961. David B. Herriott, CHS 1960 (Submitted by Phil Matteson) A Teacher Remembered News has been received in Champaign regarding Mrs. Eileen Tinberg. GREENSBORO, N.C. - Eileen Hopper Tinberg passed away on April 28, 2010, in Greensboro, NC. Born on Dec. 31, 1913, in Annabel, Mo., Mrs. Tinberg began her teaching career upon her graduation from high school. She continued to teach while simultaneously earning her bachelor's degree. She moved to Champaign and began teaching advanced mathematics at Edison Junior High in 1947. She married her husband, Gilbert L. (Roy) Tinberg, in 1949. Upon his retirement in 1970, she left Edison and the couple moved to Phoenix, Ariz., where she resumed teaching until reaching mandatory retirement age in 1983. After her husband's passing in 1992, Mrs. Tinberg moved to Maryland, then to North Carolina in 2006. She is survived by her daughter, Elaine VanderLinden, and her grandson, J.P. VanderLinden, both of Greensboro, NC. (Source: The News-Gazette, Wednesday, June 2, 2010) When we entered Champaign Junior High School in the fall of 1947 for 7th grade, we were introduced to Miss Hopper, a new mathematics teacher, who was starting her first of 23 total years at Champaign Junior High School/Edison Middle School. Miss Hopper was popular with the students. However, when we returned after summer break to start 9th grade in 1949, we had to learn a new name for Miss Hopper....at the age of 36 she was now Mrs. Tinberg, married to Gilbert LeRoy "Roy" Tinberg. MISS HOPPER WED SEPTEMBER 3 An olive green afternoon dress was worn by Miss Eileen Hopper at her marriage with Roy Tinberg, September 3 at the Evangelical Lutheran church in Chicago. Miss Hopper's corsage was of African lilies and stephanotis. The wedding was attended by Mr. and Mrs. William Selle. Mrs. Selle is the sister of Mr. Tinberg. Following the ceremony, dinner was held at the Lake Shore club in Chicago. The Tinbergs spent their three-day honeymoon in Chicago. Mr. Tinberg is employed with the state geological survey at the University of Illinois. The couple now lives at 512 West Park Avenue in Champaign. "Don't be in too big a hurry to get married. Shop around until you find the best one."...Mrs. Tinberg advises all hopeful Junior High girls. (Source: Champaign Junior High School HIGHLIGHTS Vol XV No. 1 - October 4, 1949) Mrs. Eileen H. Tinberg, B.S. taught algebra and practical mathematics, along with assisting Activity Clubs of Social Dancing and Needlework. The Social Dancing Club was well attended by our 9th grade classmates during the 1949-1950 school year. The smooth dancers includes: Donna Armstrong, Doris McCown, Sue Maley, Louie Mays, Virginia Percy, Esther Pittman, Myrna Primmer, Nancy Schubert, Ron Selvidge, Joyce Simpson, Carol Sue Stahl, Rita Warmbier, and John Wilson. Mrs. Tinberg is also remembered for her assistance with preparations for the 9th grade dance in the gym. She was chairman of the decoration committee for decorations in keeping with the theme of the dance, which was "Dreamer's Holiday." (Source: Champaign Junior High School HIGHLIGHTS, page 8, Tuesday, May 23, 1950) Submitted by Phil Matteson The Social Event for May 2010 What is becoming an annual event in Champaign is Jack Dixon coming up from Pana, Illinois to visit a group of "guys" who gather at Huber's on West Church Street in Champaign. This year about 25 guys from CHS 1952, 1953, 1954, 1955, and 1956 made an appearance. Attending from CHS 1953 were: Tom Hammersmith, Phil Matteson, Terry O'Neill and Bob Slade. See you next year. Submitted by Phil Matteson Tommy Stewart receives Community Builder Award On Friday night, April 30, 2010, Tommy Stewart received the Community Builder Award from the local Masonic lodges at their 2010 Masonic Awards Banquet. The event was attended by almost 200 past CHS students, past CHS athletes, past CHS coaches and teachers, along with Masonic members. Tommy was presented his Masonic award by Ray Cummings (CHS 1963) and the key to the City of Champaign by Mayor Jerry Schweighart (CHS 1957). The Mayor also read a Proclamation stating that April 30, 2010 was Tommy Stewart Day in Champaign. Besides the "stay loose" instructions from Tommy in PE class, as head football coach he displayed a sign in the football locker room at McKinley Field that read "BBB" for all players to see at practice and on game day. The meaning was...Be here - Be on time - Be ready. It was a fun evening with laughter, and an emotional evening because of Tommy's health issues. Attending from our CHS 1953 class were Keith Whited, Tom Hammersmith, Shirley Schweighart-Soucie, and Phil Matteson. Many of us in our class are having a 75th birthday this year, so our teachers are in the 85 to 93 age bracket. Where did the time go? Submitted by Phil Matteson Champaign History on this date In 1910, Dr. H.C. Howard, one of the oldest and most highly esteemed of Champaign's citizens, was to be honored by having the new school house at James Street and Park Avenue named after him, the decision being made by the school board Saturday night. The doctor was to decide whether the school should be known as the "Howard," "Dr. Howard" or "Hartwell C. Howard" School. (Source: The News-Gazette - Sunday, May 2, 2010) And....you know the rest of the story. Submitted by Phil Matteson Congratulations to Tommy Stewart One of the new teachers to start duties at Champaign High School during our junior school year in 1952-1953 was Tommy Stewart, quarterback on the 1948 University of Illinois Rose Bowl championship team. He taught boys' physical education and was backfield coach for football, along with being head baseball coach. However, for Tommy Stewart, the CHS 1953-1954 school year was probably his busiest teacher/coach year. Just prior to the 1953 football team conference opener at Danville, head coach Fred Major revealed to the team that his doctors had ordered him to retire from coaching because of ill health. Coach Stewart was moved from backfield coach to head football coach, along with being head baseball coach, reserve basketball coach, and teaching physical education. Coach Stewart stepped down as head football coach in 1978 because "it wasn't fun anymore." He retired from the Champaign School District in the mid 1980s. Tommy Stewart will be honored as a community builder by local Masonic lodges this Friday, April 30. A dinner/ceremony will be conducted at the Masonic Western Star Lodge No. 240, 14 Bel-Air Court in Champaign (located off Windsor Road just west of Neil Street). Doors open at 6:00 p.m., dinner at 6:30 p.m., with a ceremony starting at 7:30 p.m. For reservations, call Ray Cummings at 217-202-0928. As Coach Tommy Stewart always said...."S-T-A-Y L-O-O-S-E" Notes of congratulation can be sent to Tom Stewart, 1811 Lynwood Drive, Champaign, IL 61821. Submitted by Phil Matteson A LONG AGO TEACHER/COACH REMEMBERED Carole and I were reminiscing on some years past, and remembered a man who was in our archery club in the mid 1960's. I Googled and Wikipedia "Harold Osborn". I knew he was involved in field and track as a young man, but didn't know he was a teacher and coach at Champaign High School from the late 1920's to 1933. He also won two Gold medals in the 1924 Olympics held in Paris, France. Osborn was the first and, to this day, the only athlete ever to win gold in both the decathlon and an individual event. He received his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine in 1937 and practiced in his home on West Church Street. I remember going to him in the 1960's. Harold past away in 1975. We moved away in 1969 and didn't hear about his passing. It was indeed an honor and pleasure to know and compete with him in the game of Archery. (Source: Wikipedia) A complete history can be found at: Wikipedia-Harold Osborn Submitted by Harold Keller REFLECTIONS FOR 2009 Since our 55th reunion on July 26, 2008, a review of our Class Directory is interesting. Classmates appear to be content where they live, because no mailing address changes have been reported. However, internet providers must not satisfy us, as evidenced by eleven e-mail address changes made in our directory listings. Sadly, five classmates were added to our memorial roll call during 2009: Charles "Chuck" Oliger 01/02/2009; Tom Garrett 01/05/2009; Mildred (Rich) Schrer 09/12/2009; Bennie Williamson 10/09/2009, and Norma (Phelps) Dalbey 12/19/2009. Our known deceased classmates now total 63. Submitted by Phil Matteson, January, 6, 2010. A CLASSMATE REMEMBERED Norma Jean (Phelps) Dalbey, 73, of Mahomet, passed away on Saturday, December 19, 2009 at her home. She was born December 30, 1935 in Centralia to C.L. and Noma Phelps. She married Raymond E. Dalbey on May 15, 1959 in Urbana. He survives. Services will be held at Mount Hope Mausoleum, Champaign, on Friday, January 8, with a visitation memorial service from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m., followed by a celebration of life service at 11:30 a.m., led by Pastor Ben Hoerr. Also surviving are sons David of Layton, Utah; Scott of Champaign, and Brian of Mahomet; five grandchildren and one great-grandson. During her early married years Norma enjoyed being a stay-at-home mom and den mother in scouting. She was active in church activities, serving in several leadership positions. She started a ministry to the elderly in the Champaign County Nursing Home. In 1982, while living in rural St. Joseph, she started a "mini-farm," which included miniature ducks, chickens, goats and miniature horses. She took Master Gardener training through the U of I Extension Service and a horse-breeding course at Parkland College. Her favorite animals were cats, dogs and miniature goats. For a few years Norma owned and operated the Harvest Time Natural Food Store in Homer. She loved to go to garage sales, work her flower beds and care for her animals. Memorials may be made to WGNN Good News Radio in Fisher or to the Carle Hospice Memorial Fund, 611 West Park Street, Urbana, IL 61801. (Source: The News-Gazette, Tuesday, January 5, 2010.) In the early 1950s, Norma lived at 909 West Union Street. Her father was an ICRR foreman. While attending CJHS she was in homeroom 9-1 during ninth grade and was a member of the Girls Glee Club and Choralettes. (Source: The 1950 Retro, pages 66, 67 and 68.) At CHS, Norma participated in Wig'n'Paint during her sophomore year, and in her junior year she was on the Chronicle staff, helping the Business Manager in her senior year. The caption with her senior picture in the yearbook says, "A merry heart, the best of company." (Source: The 1953 Maroon, page 35.) As stated in the Senior Class Will, "Norma Phelps bequeaths her melodious voice to Mr. Sotka to be given to the best singer in next year's bookkeeping class." (Source: The 1953 Maroon, page 147.) Submitted by Phil Matteson, January 6, 2010 A CLASSMATE REMEMBERED Bennie D. Williamson, 76, of Champaign, passed away on Friday, October 9, 2009 at Barnes Jewish Hospital in St. Louis. He was born September 26, 1933 to Vernon and Muriel Williamson. Services will be held on Wednesday, October 14, with visitation from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. at the First Christian Church at 3601 South Staley Road, Champaign. The funeral will follow at 11:00 a.m. The Rev. Tim Barber will officiate. Entombment will follow at the Mount Hope Mausoleum, 611 East Pennsylvania Avenue, Champaign. He is survived by two sons, one daughter, six grandchildren and two sisters, Barbara Stone of Ontario, Canada, and Marjorie Pratt of Champaign. He is also survived by a very, very special companion, Lyla Lou (Brown) Crays of Champaign. He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Wolf. (Source: The News-Gazette October 12, 2009.) Ben lived with his parents during the 1950s at 407 South Chestnut Street. His father was a cabinet maker. At CJHS, Ben was in homeroom 9-5 during 9th grade. He played end on the football squad that completed six wins and a one-loss season. At CHS, Ben was on the football team for his kicking ability. According to Ben, the coaches referred to him as "The Golden Toe," which might have been one of his tall tales that he sometimes told. He liked to run in track, and competed in the 440-yard dash and anchored the mile relay team in the state track meet at Memorial Stadium. (Source: The Champaign Chronicle May 22, 1953.) The caption under his senior picture in the yearbook says..."Oh, it's excellent to have a giant's height." (Source: Maroon 1953.) After CHS days, Ben was drafted into the U.S. Army and served until 1955. After military service, he attended DeVry Institute, graduating in 1960. Then, he worked at W. Lewis & Co. before getting married to Mary Wolf in Fisher on September 2, 1960. In 1960, he started working at the University of Illinois until his retirement in 1998. Submitted by Phil Matteson A CLASSMATE REMEMBERED: Mildred J. (Rich) Sehrer, 74, of Rantoul, passed away on Saturday (September 12, 2009) at Heartland Health Care, Paxton. Mrs. Sehrer was born August 24, 1935 in Honolulu, a daughter of William and Rosetta (Bennett) Rich. She married Bernard Sehrer on March 9, 1958 in Champaign. He preceded her in death on November 16, 1992. Survivors include two sons, Ronald Dean Sehrer of Rantoul and Bobby Sehrer (Randee McNeel) of Liberty, MO. She was preceded in death by her parents, grandparents and a sister. She was a secretary for the University of Illinois in the 1950s. She was a member of TOPS and University Place Christian Church, where she was a member of various circles. She was also a member of the National Campers and Hikers Association. (Source: The News-Gazette, September 15, 2009) During the early 1950s, Mildred lived with her parents at 903 West Springfield Avenue. (Source: Champaign and Urbana City Directory 1950) Mildred was asked what her future plans would be after high school graduation. She replied, "...work at the University this summer and continue next winter." (Source: The Champaign Chronicle, Friday, May 22, 1953) During her school days at CHS, Mildred participated in the dramatic club, Wig 'n' Paint, along with National Thespians, Stunt Show, G.A.A. and Maroonafins, the advanced swimming club for girls with only 24 members. Her senior class picture caption reads..."A million dollar smile for all." (Source: Maroon 1953) Submitted by Phil Matteson A TEACHER REMEMBERED Lucille S. Dobson, 88, of Champaign passed away at 12:15 p.m. on Monday, June 1, 2009, at the Illinois Knights Templar Home, Paxton. Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. on Thursday, June 4, 2009, at Morgan Memorial Home, 1304 Regency Drive West, Savoy, with Pastor Chuck Carlson officiating. Burial will be in the Cerro Gordo Township Cemetery, Cerro Gordo. There will be no visitation. Mrs. Dobson was born on Aug. 7, 1920, in Staunton. She was the daughter of Frederick and Lena Weber Sturm. She married John Dobson in Carlinville in June of 1949. He preceded her in death on Oct. 19, 2007. Surviving are one daughter, Elizabeth Jane Dobson of Decatur; and one son, James Richard Dobson of Buffalo Grove. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband and a daughter who died in infancy. Mrs. Dobson attended Zion Lutheran Elementary School and graduated from Staunton High School as salutatorian in 1938. She was a 1942 graduate of Illinois State University, Normal, and a member of Kappa Mu Epsilon, the mathematics honorary fraternity. Entering the U of I, she earned a master's degree in education. Elected to Xi Chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma where she was a 50-year member. Mrs. Dobson was employed as a mathematics teacher in the Champaign school district in 1942. She continued with Champaign Junior High School and Franklin Junior High School until her retirement in 1958. Memorials may be made to the First Presbyterian Church of Champaign, 302 West Church St., Champaign, IL 61820. CHS ALUMNI NEWS The current Issue 17 of the CHS Alumni Newsletter contains a "Whatever happened to" article, and the person featured is Dorothy Munger. For the article, she was interviewed by phone on 11-6-2008. She will soon be 91 and her health is good, although walking and going to the store is getting harder. There is longevity in her family, and she is looking forward to the possibility of making it to 100. Ms. Munger graduated from CHS in 1935 and started as a student teacher at CHS in 1939, serving 38 years as a teacher, business department chair, and the Dean of girls. She still wants to find out who was spreading limburger cheese on the radiator in her classroom. She still keeps up with CHS and was disappointed when the basketball team lost in the first round of last year's state tournament. She still remembers when CHS won the tournament in 1947. Ms. Munger retired in 1977 and has traveled to every continent but Australia. She is still smarter and sharper than most of us. Also, this issue of the CHS Alumni Newsletter contains an interesting article..."Do you know Max." The article is informative about how Max Maroon originated in the 1953 school year by Susan Black and her friend, Mary Ann Stahl. Max got his name from Don Scott, Sports Editor of the Champaign Chronicle, who wrote and talked about made-up stuff regarding this imaginary character before Max arrived at his first basketball game in 1952. Max was a part of the Peparoons, Pepettes, or the cheerleading squad for 33 years through 1986. Submitted by Phil Matteson A CLASSMATE REMEMBERED Classmate Amie Ford of Carmichael, California, passed away December 18, 2008. Born Amie Chipman in Champaign on 12-1-1933, she moved to California with her husband after CHS graduation, becoming a registered nurse in Sacramento. She was a business mogul, owning Ford's Residential Care, Facility, Ford's Trucking Company, and Ford's Real Estate. She was a very spiritual person who was known for her unselfish commitment to others, and her continued involvement in feeding the homeless. Amie is survived by her husband of 57 years, James K. Ford, Sr.; one son, James K., Jr.; three daughters, Paula E., Jacqueline Y., and Stephanie; 16 grandchildren and six great grandchildren. Visitation was 12-27-2008 at Mt. Vernon Memorial Park in Fair Oaks, CA, and funeral services were 12-29-2008 at Williams Memorial COGIC in Sacramento, CA. (Source: The Sacramento Bee 12-26-2008) Amie was a member of the Library Staff during her junior year at CHS. (Source: The 1953 Maroon, page 42) When asked what her plans would be after CHS graduation, she stated... "Work this summer and later go to California to school." (Source: The Champaign Chronicle 5-22-1953) Amie was camera shy in the 1953 Maroon; however, the caption under her picture would have read..."A happy person lives long." Submitted by Donna (Keene) Meeks and Phil Matteson A CLASSMATE REMEMBERED: Classmate Thomas "Tom" Garrett of Fort Collins, Colorado, passed away January 5, 2009. He was born in White Salmon, Washington and moved to Champaign in 1948 with his parents, at which time he started 8th grade at CJHS. After CHS, Tom worked downtown at Sears in the automotive department, and later became a plumber. He married, and in 1960 he and his family moved to Colorado. He worked as a plumber/pipefitter for several companies in both Illinois and Colorado during his working career. Tom is survived by a daughter, Gay Lynn of Fort Collins, CO; three sisters, Frances of Savoy; Catherine of St. Augustine, FL; and Margery of Philo, IL; one brother, John of Mahomet, IL; and three grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and one son, Curtis. A memorial service will be held at a later date in Fort Collins, CO. (Source: The News-Gazette 1-10-2009). When asked what his plans would be after high school graduation, Tom said he was going to join the Navy. (Source: The Champaign Chronicle 5-22-1953) As written in the Senior Class Will..."Tom Garrett leaves his younger brothers and sisters to Hulah B. Smith. (Source: 1953 Maroon, page 147) The caption under his senior class picture in the 1953 Maroon reads..."A good friend with a happy way." Submitted by Phil Matteson A CLASSMATE REMEMBERED Classmate Charles J. "Chuck" Oliger passed away Friday, January 2, 2009, after a lengthy battle with cancer. He is survived by his wife Shirley of 53 years, three children and six sisters. He was preceded in death by his parents, three sisters and two brothers. After graduating from CHS, Chuck and his wife moved to Mahomet. He was a cement finisher for 30 years until his health forced him to retire. He enjoyed time in his woodworking shop making flag cases, going on fishing trips with his brothers, and family reunions at the family cabin. Chuck loved living in Mahomet, where he served on the planning and zoning commission, village council, and concluded with 12 years as Mayor. In recognition of his dedicated service and leadership, the Village of Mahomet recently named Main Street after him in honorary designation. (Source: The News-Gazette, 1-4-09) At CHS, Chuck was on the wrestling and track teams during all three years, which made him a member of "C" Club in both his junior and senior years. Wrestling was the most successful sport of the 1952-53 year for CHS. Chuck wrestled at 127 lbs. 12 times in his senior year, winning ten and losing two. He took first place in the Big 12 Tournament at Mattoon. (Source: The Champaign Chronicle 2-20-53) Then, in the Sectional at Urbana, Chuck took first place again in his weight division. (Source: The Champaign Chronicle 2-27-53) He was one of eight grapplers who represented CHS in the state tournament at Huff Gym on the U. of I. campus. Chuck scored a point for CHS by pinning his first-round opponent; however, he was defeated in his second-round match on a questionable referee's decision. (Source: The Champaign Chronicle 3-6-53) Chuck was a pole vaulter on the track team. He cleared 11'3" to take honors in the Urbana dual meet; he went on to win at 11'0" in the Urbana relays; and, he reached his best at 11'6" in the District to qualify for State at U. of I. Memorial Stadium. (Source: The Champaign Chronicle 5-15-53) Chuck was recognized as runner-up outstanding athlete for 1953 and the trophy remains in the archives at CHS today inscribed with Chuck Oliger's name. The caption under Chuck's senior picture in the CHS 1953 Maroon reads...."I stand on the brink of a great career. Will somebody please push me off." Condolences may be offered at www.owensfuneralhomes.com Submitted by Phil Matteson December 18, 2008 A REFLECTION: As we grow older and provide wisdom and advice to those younger, we often reflect back to our school days at both CJHS and CHS and remember our own learning experience provided by our teachers. For the boys in our class, some might have a memory of meaningful words emphasized by Teacher/Coach Tom Stewart. Boys in his gym class are sure to remember his opening exercise, along with his "stay loose" instructions. Other words of motivation from Coach Stewart, which might be remembered...... "Treat people with respect" "Be on time" "Never give up" "Hustle" "Develop good habits" "Never give up your place in line" "Things are never half as good as they may seem, and things are never half as bad as they seem" A recent article in The News-Gazette (On Preps - December 18, 2008) by Fred Kroner, prep sports coordinator, featured former CHS football coach, Tom Stewart. Aside from being a successful Hall of Famer Coach, he continues to have an impact on the lives of many he taught and coached. In Kroner's article, a perspective was given by Scott Norrick, CHS 1983. Norrick explained how Tom Stewart impacted his life. "Like most during my first year in high school, I was a bit intimidated about trying to play high school football," Norrick said. "During the first day of practice, I realized that some of my protective equipment was too big and loose on me. Coach Stewart had told all the kids that if they had any trouble with their equipment to show up early before the next practice and meet him in the Crow's Nest, which was atop the old field house at McKinley Field. As I slowly walked up the creaky stairs to the top, I was increasingly filled with self-doubt on whether I should really bother the Hall of Fame head varsity football coach about my equipment issues." Norrick stayed the course, however, and waited his turn in line. "Coach Stewart was patiently sitting on a card table chair with a screwdriver in his hand as he tightened a player's helmet," Norrick recalled. "By the time he had finished with the equipment of the kids that were ahead of me, I noticed through the Crow's Nest window that the assistant coaches were getting ready to start practice. At the same time from behind me came a senior who, after the previous year, was the team's best player and was an All-Big 12 Conference selection. He also seemed to need some equipment adjustment. I began to step aside to let the senior by so he could see Coach Stewart. As I was moving back to start heading down the stairs I heard Coach Stewart yell, 'Hey, Scott. Come here, kid.' I was shocked. First, I didn't know that he knew my name, and second, I was sure I was about to be reprimanded for something." What transpired was a life lesson for Norrick. "Coach Stewart looked me in the eye and started by saying that I should never give up my place in line; that I was just as important as anyone else there. He proceeded to get me properly fitted with my equipment and finished by saying that he was glad I came out for football." Tom Stewart and his wife still reside in Champaign. He continues to follow CHS and U. of I. football. Probably, if he met you on the street today, he would greet you by your first name. Submitted by Phil Matteson December 11, 2008 ANNNIVERSARY NEWS Classmate, Roger Sphar and his wife Jeanette will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary with their family, followed with a trip at a later date. They were married on December 11, 1958 at the Gibson City Bible Church in Gibson City, Illinois. They have three children...Shelly Jones of Tolono, Carla Barcus of Champaign, Tracy Wade of Mahomet, and seven grandchildren. Roger retired in 1990 from the University of Illinois operations and maintenance carpenter shop, where he worked for 35 years after starting in 1955. He was a member of Carpenters Local 44 for 53 years, and served six years in the Illinois National Guard. Jeanette worked for Bacon & Van Buskirk Glass Co. and Cole Hospital. She retired in 1998 from Christie Clinic Ophthalmology Department after working there for 15 years. Congratulations to Roger and Jeanette! Submitted by Phil Matteson November 24 2008 A CLASSMATE REMEMBERED Sharon (Kelly) Livingston of Jacksonville, Florida passed away Monday, November 24, 2008. She married John E. Hinton on December 28, 1955, and he preceded her in death in 1991. Also, preceding her in death was a granddaughter, Kristine April McCall. She is survived by her husband, John W. "Bill" Livingston; a son, John Hinton; three daughters, Ann Hinton-Allen, Mary Hinton-Herrick, and Patrice Hinton-Oswalt; five grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. Also surviving are her brother, Thomas Patrick Kelly of Urbana; two sisters, Lanna Stickels of Champaign, and Jody Kirschner of Corpus Christi, Texas. After high school, Sharon attended Fontbonne College in St. Louis. In Jacksonville, Florida she was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, sang with the Jacksonville Symphony Chorus, and was a devoted volunteer with the Mended Hearts. During her high school days at CHS, Sharon was a reporter on The Chronicle staff during her senior year. She was active in Wig 'n' Paint, the dramatic club, taking parts in the Fall stunt show, the Fall play, the Christmas play, the mid-winter production of "The Royal Family," followed by the Spring play and the exchange assemblies with other area schools. Also, singing was a very important part of Sharon's activities, as she took part in the A Capella Choir, the Vocalettes, and the Madrigals. The caption under Sharon's senior picture in the CHS 1953 Maroon reads...."It's grand to be a senior, but a junior has my heart." A private family service will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions can be made to American Heart Association or American Cancer Society. Submitted by Phil Matteson November 7, 2008 CHS ALUMNI GARDEN DEDICATION Last Friday (November 7, 2008) at 3:30 p.m., a public dedication was held for the Alumni Garden at the SW corner of the school campus, being the NW corner of University Avenue and New Street. The project has been in the works for several years. The Alumni Association raised $20,000 in donations from CHS graduates and class reunion gifts to pay for a new electronic message board sign and a flower garden, maintained through the Master Gardener Program included in the school curriculum. During the past year, paver stones with an inscription have been added along each side of the curving sidewalk leading through the garden. Nearly 70 pavers have been sold at a cost of $100 each. At our recent 55th reunion, forms were available at the check-in table for ordering a paver. If you missed picking up a form and are interested, please contact Phil Matteson at pdmatt35@msn.com Submitted by Phil Matteson October 17, 2008 Happy Anniversary! Bob and Suzann Slade of Mahomet will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary this Sunday (October 19, 2008). Their children will be hosts of an open house from 2:00-4:00 p.m. at the Hideaway of the Woods in Mahomet. Family and friends are welcome, and the couple requests no gifts. Bob and Suzann Fritsch were married on January 25, 1958 at the United Methodist Church of Gibson City. They have three sons...Jeffrey (Lisa) of Mahomet, Bill of Mahomet, and Robert (Dena) of Champaign; eight grandchildren; and one great-grandson. Bob worked in the concrete business for 55 years in the Champaign area, along with owning and operating Imperial Concrete Construction for many years. Suzann is a homemaker. Congratulations to Bob and Suzann. September 29, 2008 The "Pass the Hat" campaign has ended with great results because of some great classmates who responded...of course, all of our classmates are the best of CHS. Additional kudos and thanks to Barbara (Bailey) Thrash, Charles Cremeens, and Keith Whited. In total, we received over $1,000, which covered our $500 budget deficit from the 55th reunion and gives our savings account a boost towards our 60th in 2013. Again, thanks to all who attended the reunion last July...the memories still linger. Thanks for the memories. Reunion Committee September 14, 2008 After our 55th reunion, Harold Keller initiated a "Pass the Hat" campaign, because the reunion costs exceeded the budget. Your spirited response, with both thoughtful notes and dollars, reveals that our high school experience together 55 years ago developed into true and lasting friendships. Your generosity has covered the budget over-run and added to the reserve for our next reunion in 2013. We will have a 60th reunion! Many thanks and kudos to the following: Mary Jane (Bruggeman) Stevens, Ruth (Bulkley) Warfield, Julia (Clark) Job, Gene Fincham, Ray Griffet, Shirley (Hausmann) Schweighart-Soucie, Wendell Hull, Harold Keller, Nancy (Klopfenstein) Davis, Shirley (Lappin) Lumsden, Lou Mays, Tom Meeks, Myrna (Primmer) Anglin, Richard Rohr, Jan (Royse) Hodson, Nancy (Schubert) Darnall, Bob Selvey, Ron Selvidge, and Bob Slade. Reunion Committee August 22, 2008 On Friday, August 22, at 6:00 p.m., at McKinley Field, Champaign High School football coach, Tommy Stewart, was honored by the naming of the fieldhouse as the Tommy Stewart Fieldhouse. The Hall of Fame football coach won 199 games at CHS during his 31 years as the Maroons head coach before retiring following the 1983 season. Under Coach Stewart, CHS football was regarded as one of the elite programs in the Big 12 Conference. As stated in the Champaign News-Gazette, "The naming of Tommy Stewart Fieldhouse will ensure that the former Maroons coach also will continue to receive the credit he deserves." Attending the ceremony to congratulate Coach Stewart, representing the CHS Class of 1953, were Tom Hammersmith and Phil Matteson. Submitted by Phil Matteson A CLASSMATE REMEMBERED July 17, 2008 Charles P. "Chuck" Davis Classmates, Just during the week prior to our recent reunion, information was received that Charles P. Davis died on July 14, 2005. Chuck was recuperating from an illness in early 2005, but by June he was slipping again. He was diagnosed with cancer of the pancreas on June 24 and died July 14 in Desert Hot Springs, CA, which is north of Palm Springs near the Little San Bernardino Mountains. His surviving wife, Dorothy (maiden name unknown), was originally from Urbana where she went to Uni High. During the 1950s, Chuck lived at 406 W Springfield Ave in Champaign. His father, Harold, was a partner in the Royer & Davis architect firm located in downtown Urbana. During high school days, Chuck participated in Wig n Paint, National Thespians, Band, A Capella Choir, Concert Choir, Troubadors, Baton Club, Stunt Show, and Music Contest. The caption under his senior picture reads..."Sometimes I'm wise, sometimes, otherwise." Phil Matteson A CLASSMATE REMEMBERED May 13, 2008 Robert S. "Bob" Williams We have lost another classmate. Robert S. "Bob" Williams passed away after a long illness on Friday, May 9, 2008 in Sarasota, Florida. He is survived by his wife, Barbara Frances Gebhard; a brother, Tom Williams, Sr. of Champaign; six cousins; four nephews; a niece; six great-nephews; and three great-nieces. Bob went to Dr. Howard Grade School and Champaign Junior High School. During high school days at CHS, he was very active in music and drama. He sang in A Capella Choir, Troubadours, Madrigals, Concert Choir, Boys' Quartet, Modernaires, and participated in Music Concert and Baton Club. He acted in the Midwinter Play, Fall Play, Christmas Play, and helped with Exchange Assemblies, which all qualified him for membership in Wig 'n' Paint, and National Thespians. Also, he was on the Maroon Staff, and was involved with Library, Stunt Show, Hi-Y, Junior-Senior Prom Committee, and FTA, as Chairman of the Board. During his senior year, he served as Champaign "Mayor for a Day." After CHS, Bob graduated in 1957 from Eastern Illinois University with a double Major...a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education and Political Science. Later, he received an Associate's Degree in Fine Arts from Parkland College, followed by advanced courses in Library Science at the U. of I. Bob served in the U.S. Army from 1957-1961. Following his discharge, he taught fifth grade at Carrie Busey School in Champaign for three years. He then began a new career as a librarian at the U. of I. main library until his retirement. He enjoyed world and religious history, classical music, opera, stage, theatre, and trips to state and national parks. He was a member of Faith United Methodist Church of Champaign, Western Star Masonic Lodge, 240AF&AM, 32nd-degree Mason and Moose Lodge 3000. Visitation will be at Morgan Memorial Home in Savoy from 7-8:30 p.m. Thursday, May 15, 2008. Funeral services will be Friday at 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home, followed by graveside service, with full military honors by VFW Post 5520 at Roselawn Cemetery, Champaign. Memorials may be made in his memory to Carle Hospice, Carle Cancer Center, or the American Cancer Society. The caption under his name in the 1953 Maroon reads..."Silence is golden, but who wants to be rich?" For unknown reasons, Bob never attended a class reunion. However, he is now returning to Champaign, where some classmates will pay last respects in the form of a last reunion with Bob. For those who see some meaning in figures, Bob is now the 55th known deceased classmate, just prior to our upcoming 55th reunion in July. Phil Matteson A CLASSMATE REMEMBERED March 22, 2008 Charles R. McMullen Just as we anticipate a happy 55th reunion, we receive information regarding the death of a classmate...Charles R. McMullen made his transition Saturday, March 15, 2008. After high school at CHS, Charles attended Parkland College. He was a former City of Champaign police officer, and served in the U.S. Army from 1957 to 1960. He was employed at the University of Illinois in the Animal Science Department and retired from SuperValu Distribution Center in 1998. Apostle McMullen founded the Greater New Jerusalem Apostolic Church in 1978. Charles married the former Dorothy Jean Osler and is survived by his daughter, Faith A. Wilson of Urbana; son, Mark McMullen of Springfield; four brothers; one sister; ten grandchildren, and one great-grandchild. In 9th grade at CJHS, "Mac" played halfback on the football team and center on the basketball squad. His senior picture in the 1953 Maroon is captioned... "The measure of life is not length, but honesty." Sadly, the CHS Class of 1953 now has 54 deceased classmates. Phil Matteson A CLASSMATE REMEMBERED Linden Bruhn Information has been received from the niece of Linden Bruhn that he passed away August 11, 2007. For some years, he had been living in a cabin owned by his niece in Unionville, Indiana near Bloomington. Linden had some health issues, which necessitated his niece to check on him. Last July he was in need of care and she moved him into a nursing home near her residence in Hancock County, Indiana. His body was donated for research at Indiana University. There was no funeral service or published obituary. Linden is remembered as a quiet classmate at Champaign High School. His senior picture caption was..."A small man with a bright future." Submitted by Phil Matteson A CLASSMATE REMEMBERED Bobby Clark The news about Bobby Clark was just recently obtained. Tom Hammersmith was talking to Jessie Clark, whom we believe was a cousin. I then contacted Bobby's sister, Faye, here in Champaign, who told me that Bobby passed away about seven years ago in New Orleans. After high school he went into the Navy and then returned to Champaign, owning his own restaurant on University Avenue. When the lease on his restaurant expired, he moved to New Orleans and worked as a cook and taxi-cab driver. Some of his family now reside in Champaign. At CHS he participated in track during his Sophomore year, and the caption under his senior picture in the Maroon says...."The only way to have a friend is to be one." Submitted by Phil Matteson November 4, 2007 Good news! Bob Dalhaus and his wife, Carole, of St. Joseph, Illinois celebrated their 50th Wedding Anniversary with a trip to Canada and Niagara Falls. Bob and the former Carole Lovett were married October 16, 1957 in Urbana. They are the parents of Robert Dalhaus, Jr. of St Joseph, Kelly Marassa of Monce, and Dena Carrigan of Athem, Arizona. They also have four grandchildren. Bob retired from L.C.L. Transit of Green Bay, Wisconsin. Congratulations to Bob and Carole. Submitted by Phil Matteson October 22, 2007 John Robert Dobson-Teacher CHAMPAIGN – John Robert Dobson, 90, of Champaign, passed away at 11:40 a.m. Friday, Oct. 19, 2007, at Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana. Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 23, 2007, at Morgan Memorial Home, 1304 Regency Drive West, Savoy. Pastor Chuck Carlson will officiate. Burial will in Cerro Gordo Cemetery, Cerro Gordo. There will be no visitation. Mr. Dobson was born July 11, 1917, in Cerro Gordo, a son of Philip H. and Edna McDonald Dobson. He married Lucille Sturm of Staunton in Carlinville. She survives. Also surviving is one daughter, Elizabeth Jane Dobson of Decatur; and one son, James Richard Dobson of Buffalo Grove. He was preceded in death by an infant daughter. Mr. Dobson attended Milmine Elementary School and graduated from Cerro Gordo High School in 1934. He graduated from Blackburn College in 1936 and received an AB degree in LAS and an AM degree in education with an advanced certificate in education from the University of Illinois. He earned membership in Phi Delta Kappa and Kappa Delta Pi and the Illini History Club. Mr. Dobson served in the U.S. Army from 1941 to 1945. He served overseas with the 33rd Infantry Division in Kauai, East Indies and Luzon, Philippines. The division captured Baguio, Luzon, which was the summer capital of islands from the enemy. He was awarded the Bronze Star. Following the war, he was employed at the Illinois State Training School for boys at St. Charles. He then served with the Champaign schools for 32 years as teacher, counselor, assistant principal and principal. He was principal of Franklin Junior High School for seven years. Following his retirement, he was employed by the Champaign National Bank. Mr. Dobson was a member of the American Legion, Cerro Gordo Post #117, Sons of the American Revolution, Piankeshaw Chapter, Masonic Lodge #600 in Cerro Gordo and member and past president of the Champaign Lions Club. (Submitted by Harold Keller) A CLASSMATE REMEMBERED Joyce McCormick (Cook) PORT CHARLOTTE, Fla. Joyce Ann Cook, 71, of Port Charlotte, Fla., passed away Jan. 27, 2007, at home. She was born in Champaign and was a graduate of Champaign High School. She moved to Florida in 1986 from Princeton. She was a homemaker. Survivors include her husband, Chas. Cook; five children; 10 grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren; a brother; and two sisters. Joyce was deeply loved and cherished by all. There will be a private family service. Published in The News-Gazette on 1/30/2007. A CLASSMATE REMEMBERED Charles T. "Ted" Wakefield PRESCOTT, AZ Word has been received in Champaign regarding the death of our classmate, Charles T. "Ted" Wakefield. He was born in Champaign on Nov. 28, 1935 and passed away March 18, 2007 in Prescott, AZ. He moved to Tampa, FL as an adult, where he was a City of Tampa police officer before retiring to Arizona. He was active in the Fraternal Order of Police, Screen Actors Guild, Elks Lodge, and Eagles Lodge. Ted was preceded in death by his wife, Beverly Ann Wilken of Onarga, and brother, David Ronald of Tampa, FL. He is survived by son Michael Lee, daughter Tara Marie, daughter Cheryl Ann and son Bradley Andrew. He is also survived by brothers Marion (Mick) and William Donald (Bill). A graveside service will be held at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, April 28, at the Hillsboro Memorial Cemetery, 2323 W. Brandon Blvd., Brandon, FL. Ted attended our 50th class reunion, which was the first time we had seen him since high school. He was retired in Arizona at that time. If you recall, he was the one wearing the western hat, string tie, a facial beard, and he used a walking cane. He enjoyed his time with high school classmates, but indicated he probably would not return for future reunions because of his ill health. Phil Matteson A CLASSMATE REMEMBERED Richard H. "Dick" Cruse The Indianapolis Star,(IN) - April 23, 2007 Richard H. Cruse, 71, Noblesville, died Apr. 20, 2007. Services: 6 p.m. Wed. Apr. 25 at Randall & Roberts Fishers Mortuary. A CLASSMATE REMEMBERED Shirley Grubb (Tomaso) Upon receiving word about our classmate, Shirley Grubb Tomaso, from Grubb relatives, little information was available and no obituary was published in the local Champaign News-Gazette. Thanks to Hank Hatch, he obtained the following published in The Chicago Tribune May 11, 2007 final edition on page 16: Shirley Grubb Tomaso, born October 21, 1935, in Champaign, IL. She died May 8, 2007. She was 72. Mrs. Tomaso was a long time resident of Lake Forest and Salem, WI. Shirley was preceeded in death by her husband of 50 years, Don Tomaso, her brother Bob, and her father Gordon Grubb. She is survived by her Mother Bess Grubb of Urbana, IL.; her daughter Liz Tomaso of Lake Bluff, Il.; two sons, DJ (Sue) of Stevens Point, WI. and Mike (Abi) of Coos Bay, OR. Shirley has five grandchildren Jordan, Kyle, Donna, Tori and Mason. Shirley was a devoted wife and Mother. She will be dearly missed. A memorial service will be held Monday, May 14 from 1 to 3 p.m. at Brookdale Hawthorn Lakes, 10 E. Hawthorn Pkwy, Vernon Hills, IL. 60061. Phil A CLASSMATE REMEMBERED Thurston Bigham Coleman Milwaukee, Wisconsin Thurston passed away August 29, 2006 at the age of 72. He was survived by his mother, two sisters, one brother, three sons, five daughters, three grandchildren, and a host of relatives and friends. After high school graduation, he decided to take his step-father's last name of Coleman. Thurston worked in manufacturing and was a mechanic. He is remembered from high school days as having a friendly smile and dressing in style. The caption under his senior picture reads -- "A friend is better than silver or gold." Thanks to our Web Master, Harold Keller, for finding this obituary article, which was published in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel (WI) on August 31, 2006. Phil Matteson Good News! Sharon Lappin (Lumsden) and her husband, Bob, who reside in Champaign, celebrated their 50th Wedding Anniversary June 16, with a party hosted by their neighbor across the street. Sharon and Bob were married June 23, 1957 at First Methodist Church, Champaign. They are the parents of Paul Robert Lumsden of Gaithersburg, MD. They have two grandchildren. Bob retired from the University of Illinois Alumni Association in 1993. Sharon retired as a self-employed designer-weaver and free-lance author. Phil A CLASSMATE REMEMBERED Joan Hart (Hyatt) June 27, 2007 The death of a classmate was found out today. I received an email from Shirley Price (Taylor) stating that she heard that Joan Hart (Hyatt) died, but no obituary was on the News Gazette. I made a search and found the following : Results of a Search - Social Security Death Index. JOAN F. HART (HYATT), Born-Oct 27, 1934, Death- Jun 01, 2007 Last residence: 95240 (Lodi, San Joaquin, CA) Joan's husband's name is Clarence Hyatt (Class of 1951). The last known address is: 1040 West Kettleman Lane #158 Lodi, CA 95240 209-369-0711 Harold Keller 55 Year Reunion Coming in 2008 It is not too early to think about our 55 Year Class Reunion coming up in the Year 2008. Phil has been making preliminary plans the day after our last reunion. So visit here for further news that will be posted when received. Back to News and Information Page Back to Home Page