1954
Jean Baker Leister Weikert
717.624.3960

Winter, spring and summer 2019 have constituted a slowed-down life style with a more accepting attitude of “let it be”. Mind and ideas moving ahead of the ability to move around! Reunion, on June 9, 2019, was anticipated with a night before sleeplessness full of fond memories. Mark and I arrived at Hood, picked up our reunion itinerary at Whitaker, and then drove to lunch at the Ronald J Volpe Athletic Center. Lunch was a friendly occasion with Britton Muir, assistant director of alumni and constituent engagement, helping us find a table comprised of several friendly alums: Leah Giambarresi MacDonald ’03, Elizabeth Thompson ’08, Jackie Resop Amato ’95, Donna Brown and Bill Brown, Vice President of Enrollment, and Maggie Mitchell Kline ’55. Sitting next to Maggie, I learned of Maggie and her spouse having moved into Dr. Jane McCarrell’s former home near Hood. Harry McAlpine, husband of Betsy McCain McAlpine ’51, also greeted us and informed us of Betsy’s passing this past spring. He mentioned their difficulty in encountering dementia. Harry McAlpine and Maggie’s husband served in Vietnam together. We enjoyed socializing and sharing the lunch of turkey and quinoa salad, beverages and cheesecake. We were able to hear Vice President of Institutional Advancement, Nancy Gillece ’81 introduce President Andrea Chapdelaine, who told sincerely and briefly of her joy to see Hood’s advancement. We were gratified to meet the recipients of the alumna achievement awards. Your class correspondent is especially happy to witness Magaly Mauras Green ’74 who continues to serve on the staff of Harpers Ferry while living with her husband and sons in Frederick. Having met when we attended Hood Grad School from 1976-1979, Magaly is actively encouraging Hoods multi-cultural student population. Adjoining our lunch table was Ginny Turnbull Hecklinger ’56. It was great to speak with Ginny who resides at Homewood in Frederick. Malinda “Lindy” Small ’81 is daughter of Barney and Myrlene Miller Small. Lindy’s mother is a high school classmate of Mark’s and mine. Lindy shall continue to serve Hood while being a part of the Institutional Advancement Staff. President Emeritus Ron Volpe also welcomed us with his warm smile and handshake. After such a friendly, yet introspective lunch we retreated to our room in Shriner. Staying at Shriner until Sunday morning was reminiscent of appreciating the use of elevators rather than using stairways. Onward, after a brief rest, to dinner at Coblentz was a Maryland seafood dinner. Our Shriner hall mate Althea Bates Travis-McCarthy ’64 invited us to share the 1964 table where we socialized with the following: Althea Bates Travis-McCarthy ’64 and her husband of long island, Ann McMillan Shuman ’64 of Delray Beach, FL, Marylou Herrmann Foley ’64 and her husband of Atlanta, GA, who related her extensive travel to Russia and to Germany. Nolah Sawyer Fulk had called earlier to tell of her intention to attend reunion. However, she fell several weeks prior, which is making her more aware of downsizing and the possibility of an estate sale. Her daughter and son in law are nearing retirement. Betty Remsberg DeColigny spent June 9^th with gathering triplet granddaughters. We sometimes see Betty at church in Hanover. Several months after moving from her and Warren’s farm near Middletown, MD into Homewood in Hanover, Warren passed away. Betty resides in their cottage. Betty’s 28 year old triplet granddaughters find it difficult to gather together, yet they could on that reunion weekend. Megan Thomas Eisenberg is marketing director for Avemco Insurance Co. in Frederick. Erin Thomas, a bride-to-be in October, 2019, is a social worker at Homewood in Frederick. Kelly Thomas Keller is a biological science lab technician for USDA ARS Foreign Disease-Weed Science Unit and Fort Detrick. Betty wanted to also share facts about a fourth granddaughter, Cindy Armentrout Ray, who is a wedding planner as well as a proud wife of a dedicated fireman and mother of an adorable two year old son. Other alumni receiving recognition and giving talks are Cindy Nofziger ’79 and Jillian Jones ’12 who serve with the Peace Corps in Sierra Leone, helping to establish libraries, schools, and hospitals. Kudos to their persistence and strength. Mark and I participated in a Mediation and Conflict Resolution course conducted by Adams County Mediators. We also did 4 weeks of a beginners drawing class which inspired us to delve into the Art of Drawing People. Keep in touch!

1954
Jean Baker Weikert
717.624.3960

It is always enlightening to set aside time to reconnect with class members to share the varied experiences. It was possible to communicate with several classmates. In Newtown, Connecticut, Mary Starr “Skippy” Smith Adams is considering a nearby relocation. It is always refreshing to speak directly to her, she sounded as kind and friendly as ever. Donna McDowell Boswell, West Chester, relayed she has fallen and twice suffered a broken back. Discussion was not possible at this time since she was expecting visitors. We shall keep Donna in our prayers. June Walker Beck of Mt Airy communicated nicely. We’re hoping she, and possibly her son, shall be able to visit us and view our cross keys village campus (crossroads of routes 30 and 94) as she enjoys revisiting new oxford and its antique shops. She also recalls Y-Hut student days and day students! Sally Bogar Hedstrom has called with concern about Anne Lyon Canon’s passing away from strokes and other health issues. Sally tells of Frederick’s eateries and boutiques. Nolah Sawyer Fulk, Pitman NJ, is also considering relocating. Still living in a large home with beautiful antiques, Nolah speaks of a daughter and son-in-law moving to Clearwater, Florida. Nolah’s travels include the following: the barrier islands off the coast of Georgia plus trying to avoid hurricane Michael; visiting the grand canyon of Pennsylvania; an auto-train ride to Florida to visit a snowbird friend; and also a bus tour to see Jesus The Christ at Sight and Sound Theatre with lunch at Shady Maple Smorgasbord. Mark and I have also enjoyed a bus trip to Sight and Sound to experience Jesus The Christ with lunch at Hershey restaurant. Betty Remsberg Decoligny moved from her and Warren’s farm in Middletown, MD to Homewood in Hanover, PA. Her husband Warren passed away several months ago. They have a new great grandson Caden Rae. Outreach calls were made to Penny Hapgood Noepel, Peggy Patterson Sabiston, Jane Hinkle Stockdale, Anne Smith Knoll, Adlyn Hollearn Hickey and Betsy Driggs Haight. Those calls were either directed to voicemail or disconnected or not in service. Some interesting class statistics: 70 class members living with mailing addresses; 15 asking removal from contact; 16 deceased (3 in 2018) Anne Lyon Canon, Nancy McCormack King, Kay Moorhead Castell; 12 “lost” classmates – Patricia Ashcroft Sarandria, Marylyn Bond Brown, Eleanore E. Crozier, Sheila Delaney Marks, Flor Garcia Botero, Margaret Glover, Barbara Hoffman Steiner, Dixie May, Charlotte Pearlman, Pamela Seltzer Rushton, Ann Timanus Erickson, Jane Watson. Your class correspondent is recovering from a September 12^th accident which resulted in a brain concussion and a right wrist fracture. We were on our way to an exercise class when I, seated backwards on a walker, catapulted backwards and landed on my back and the back of my skull. My walker seemed to take on a life of its own. Then, I underwent a cat scan at Hanover hospital which revealed a brain bleed which necessitated my going to a trauma center in York for several days receiving other cat scans and MRI’s. Care there is excellent. I’ve since had check-ups at Apple Hill Medical Center in York plus Gettysburg Wellspan Hospital for the wrist fracture and brain bleed. Follow up with occupational therapy was extremely helpful. The occupation therapists visited 3 times weekly for about 3 weeks and gave to me stretch bands and stand up exercises for balance, power and strength. Mark, the children, sons-in-law and grandkids are great help as I heal. Thankfully, much of being dazed and dizzy has passed. Were blessed to have out cottage with all one floor. Son Andy Leister is located nearby in a nursing home where we can help him since he had a stroke three years ago which made his right side paralyzed. Other children Kathy, Chris, Heidi and Dan live in Hanover. Grandchildren Kelsey, David, Erin, Sierra, Rachael, Nick and Sean are: on alumni staff of St John College, Santa Fe, New Mexico; captain in US Army; music teacher in PA; being employed in housekeeping and volunteering at UTZ terrace; working in the sports department at Walmart; electric repairs; and a junior student at St Johns College. In closing, a quote from Edwin Marham: “there is a destiny that makes us brothers (sisters); none goes his way alone. That which we five to the lives of others, comes back to us as our own”.

1954
Jean Baker Weikert
717.624.3960
It was refreshingly reminiscent to speak with Dorris Smith Radcliffe. She and her husband Rip are enjoying their home by the James River. Visualizing with her description of nearby eagles nest, blue heron deer, and being able to fish and then eat the days catch sounds amazing. Chesapeake Bay is within sight, in good health, Dorris and Rip are also slowed down. Last year they experienced the loss of a son in law who had multiple myeloma. A granddaughter was married last year and a grandson shall marry next year. She has also kept in touch with Marilyn Randall Stefayne plus the reverend Robert lowry, Lois White Lowry’s husband, who kept us laughing at our 50th reunion. Attempts to reach Liz Frost Wittel, Anne Lyon Canon, Nancy Swearingen Davis by phone were unsuccessful. Betty Remsberg DeColigny and her husband Warren are devoted to, as well as to each other, their granddaughters. News of them is as follows: Cindy Armentrout Ray and Christopher Ray are the proud parents of Caden Michael Ray. Born on May 18, 2017, which coincided with grandmother Betty Remsburg Decoligny’s birthday. Cindy is a busy mother, wedding planner and nanny for a wonderful family. Cindy’s mate Chris is a fireman and loves his work. Erin Lynn Thomas recently graduated from Salisbury University with a master’s degree in social work, May 23, 2018. Warren and Betty have three adult children: Sharon, Charlotte and John. Received a newsletter from Betsy Oehrle, still in Durban, South Africa. One of the villages here at cross keys in New Oxford traveled to South Africa this spring with a group of retired music teachers. I had hoped they could meet with Betsy to share commonalities, but they were unable to do so. Betsy had completed a book, Creative Musicing with African, Indian and Western Music’s. She shall give a workshop at a conference in South Africa using material from her book. She feels news of happenings in USA is very upsetting and shares thoughts and prayers of good leadership. Sub-tropical weather is indicative of approaching winter for our S.A. classmate. Mark and I are thankful for five grown children and seven grandchildren who help inspire and encourage us. Involved in a Greif share program led by two of the chaplains on the brethren campus. We recently attended a workshop on working with difficult people. We still do some ballroom dancing, Sunday school, church plus cultivating two garden plots: perennial and vegetable. There are some plants and flowers around our cottage. Children Kathy Leister Orewiler holding two positions: Truenorth Wellness in Hanover as well as with Visiting Angels. Christine Leister Abrams continues as clinical manager with Truenorth Wellness. Andy Leister still a patient here at Mission Point nursing unit, charming other patients, aides and nurses with his positive attitude despite his right sided paralysis and losing vision. Heidi Leister Haafke remains at Hanover general hospital on the IT department. Youngest son, Dan, involved in recycling in York. Granddaughter Kelsey Miller is teaching in Santa Barbara, CA. Grandson David Abrams recently promoted to captain in camp Gordon, Georgia. Granddaughter Erin Haafke is enthused as a music teacher in South Eastern school district, and performing in Ephrata this simmer in West Side Story. Granddaughter Sierra Miller in housekeeping at spirit trust Lutheran, UTZ Terrace, Hanover. Rachael Adams employed at Walmart. Grandson Nick Haafke studying electricity at York Technical Institute. Grandson Sean Miller is a sophomore at St Johns College, Annapolis. Sean Enjoys Croquet, having played on the winning St Johns team. Wish I could wax poetic, however despite the glorious soon to be summer weather, I feel less inclined to be creative. Just deeply appreciative. I apologize for any discrepancies or omissions. Last December I experienced a day-in-and-out surgery at Penn State Hershey Medical Center for excision of squamous cell cancer detected by biopsy from a dermatologist in camp Hill. The Motts Dermatology Clinic at Hershey was very proficient in the procedure which prayerfully resolved the detected squamous cells. There are over 30 dermatologists there, many of the women. Please keep in touch by writing to me at 13 Fulton Drive New Oxford, PA 17350 or by calling 717-624-3960.

Jean Baker Weikert
717.624.3960

Marilyn Ogden Heath and her husband Alan are recovering from having to temporarily vacate their home in Naples, Florida. They spent approximately nine days in a hotel and several weeks with their son and family in Arizona before being able to return to Naples. The strong winds resulted in their losing three trees. Luckily, before they were resettled they were able to have water, sewage and electricity restored. Alan experienced open-heart surgery three years ago. Marilyn is still teaching dressage along the eastern seaboard. It was reassuring to hear her resilient voice recounting their deciding not to use shelter but to explore their own resources. We tried to reach Nancy Swearingen Davis by phone but I was unable to do so. Mary “Skippy” Smith Adams described herself as being happily content with her living in a remolded home which is part of one of Ken and her sons home at Newtown, Connecticut. Ken had passed away several years ago. Skippy sounds fairly adjusted to using a walker. She doesn’t drive very much, if at all. Her living room, kitchen, bath, bedroom sounds much like Marks and my cottage here at cross keys in New Oxford. We especially are fond of a convenient pantry in our kitchen plus a small laundry all on one floor! Skippy has grandchildren living in PA and VA. We really appreciate helpful children, grandchildren, family and neighbors. Betty Remsberg DeColigny and her husband Warren have moved from their Randallstown farm home in Maryland to 124 rose court at Homewood at plum creek, Hanover, PA. Warren and Betty have traveled extensively to visit light-houses. They also have, in addition to light-house memorabilia, an extensive collection of dolls. Warren is retired as a printer with the Baltimore Sun and the Frederick News Post. They are very proud of three triplet granddaughters. Mark and I were able to visit them in their new cottage at Homewood which is about 5-7 miles from our cross keys New Oxford location. It was good to connect with one of our little sister class of 56 members, Becky Eppers Byrd, who has an apartment there. A quick phone call related that Becky has recently joined a stitchery group at Homewood for fun and relaxation. It was thoughtful of Nolah Sawyer Fulk to call from Putman, New Jersey to tell of the passing away of Caryl Dauber Barnett. Nolah was able to attend Caryl’s service. Caryl had lived in Adamstown, Maryland where she and her deceased husband Ronald had lived. Their daughter had called Nolah with a poignant description of Caryl’s passing, surrounded by family singing some of Caryl’s favorite hymns. Having had a stroke, Caryl was able to move her lips in remembrance of her favorites. Nolah was able to drive from her Putman, NJ home to attend the funeral. Janet Edelstein Ettinger sounds just as vibrant as she did while we did our home management semester at Strawn. Janet is still living in Allentown where she and her husband john settled. John was quiet active in sports in the Allentown area. Thus, welcome to the Brethren Cross Keys Village, New Oxford, PA area where we are happily contented in a brick duplex cottage. We are still unpacking as we moved last December from Carlisle, PA. Everyone here seems very peacefully friendly. There are many amenities including classes (avoiding falls, nutrition, three D’s: depression, dementia, delirium), shuttle trips on campus, available bus trips to nearby fine dining, Spanish, ballroom dances, use of pool, workout room, gym, billiards and three restaurants. Our son Andy is entering his third year of being in the nursing complex here after experiencing a stroke. He continues to have a great attitude despite right-side paralysis and decreasing vision. It is a plus to live within 15 minutes of his room so we can help to transport him to a larger dining area where we can socialize him with him as we feed him. His siblings and niece are of immense help. Hood College appeared on our CKV campus in late August. Student Alex Sexton and Dr. MacDougall, assistant professor of psychology conducted a survey to study a new measurement tool that assesses religious/spiritual struggles. The tool has been investigated in a younger adult population, but not yet with older persons. We are eager to learn of their results. In summation, we deeply appreciate your continued cooperation in maintaining communication with news you feel able to share. Although we cherish the past, we need to faithfully live forward.

Jean Baker Weikert
717-624-3960

Carol Schwarz Fitch writes her observance of our class news moving closer to beginning of class notes. Carol and her husband Dan remain active despite health limitations. They are living in a life care facility south of Boston…a stimulating environment with lectures, music programs, museum trips, and meeting interesting residents. Family nearby affords frequent visits. Five grandchildren, three of whom are 14, on the brink of high school, two others younger. Dan and Carol’s travels included cruises, both river and ocean by which they have seen most of the world in great comfort and a one-time unpacking experience. Their summertime major activity is gardening, through which they persevere regardless of stressed backs and knees! Amalia “Molly” Heineman Lueder has an updated address which is as follows: 250 South Pepperridge Drive, Vero Beach, Florida 32963-5012. Marilyn Ogden Heath’s voice was great to hear. Her interest in dressage and teaching continues. Traveling by air is becoming extensive for Marilyn. Enjoying her life-long horsemanship, she is considering downsizing; “the north is too cold.” Al had open heart surgery three years ago. She wants to keep in touch especially with Florida classmates. It was refreshing also to hear from Nolah Sawyer Fulk. She is still driving, interested in antiques and had hoped to attend reunion. We missed seeing her. A sadder phone call came from JMJ Nursing Home in Arizona relayed that classmate Tommie Corwin passed away there in March 2017 of a cardiac condition after being there for three years. It was thoughtful of Tommie’s car consultant, Audrey, to follow-up on my letter to Tommie. Elizabeth “Penny” Hapgood Noepel P’87 attended reunion, flying for her new residence at Kimball Farms, 235 Walker St, Apt 235 in Lenox, Massachusetts 61240-2746. Penny’s Daughter, Lucy Noepel ’87, was also at reunion. Penny cherishes wearing her Hood Ring. It’s always great to receive mail from Elizabeth “Betsy” Oehrle. She still cherishes seeing Mary-Louise Springhorn Rude Leidheiser’52 as I did. Mary Lou traveled from Chicago to attend reunion. It was refreshing to see her still familiar face across the luncheon table! Natalie Colbert Bowers ’52 also sat with us. She had lived in West Chester when Anne Smith Knoll resided there. Lunch tablemates with Mark and I consisted of…..Susan Peters Roetzel Wirths ’56, M.A.’79, G’13, Virginia Turnbull Hecklinger ’56, P’81, G’08, Susan Truby Peterson ’57, Margaret Reeves Leopold ’57, Martha Smith Sperandio ’57. Nancy Locher who assisted Dean Katherine Sherrill, after we in the class of ’54 graduated, also graced our lunch table. Clever Mary Johnston DeMaris wrote as follows: I used to be fast, running late to class, now I’m slow, takes me long to go, I broke my hip, the end of May 2016, then they put it together with a few screws, paid, you good to go, not so. Now I’m going to get a whole new hip, the last one turned out to be a gyp. (May, 25 2017) I live in a retirement home in an apartment called Vinson Hall in McLean VA. I’m not really too happy, but safe. My husband died on Feb 1, 2017. Sorry to hear that Tommie died. I like to hear about everyone. I guess were not “chicks” anymore just hens cluck, cluck.” A beautiful sketch of Norma “Skitsi” Simpson Reins life unfolded in her friendly remembrance of Tommie…Skitsi tells of her cardiac condition and bad knees, yet also persevering! Her son, Mac “Mackie” came to reside with Skitsi to be of help. He is retired after selling the Rein Co Insurance Brokers. Having had back surgery 4 years ago, Mac uses a walker. Skitsi’s daughter and son-in-law Kemper and Mark Warren are physicians in Greensville, NC. Mark goes all over the world to give speeches for a pharmaceutical company in addition to his medical practice. Kemper really loves medicine; however, she has not been practicing for the last few years to rear 3 children, 2 dogs and volunteer at the hospital. Warren and Betty Remsberg DeColigny’s grand-daughter Cindy Armentrout and her husband Ray Armentout gave birth to a son in May, 2017. The DeColigny’s are considering downsizing. Mark Weikert and I thoroughly enjoyed reunion. We are settling in our cottage at Cross Keys. Granddaughter Erin Haafke graduated with a double major in music from Mansfield University, shall teach in S.E school district next fall. Granddaughter Rachael Abrams received Associate from HAAC, and granddaughter Sierra Miller graduated from LIU and continues to work for UTZ Terrace after her innovative work study program at LIU.

1954

Jean Baker Leister Weikert
717-624-3960

A surprise phone call and conversation from Jean Bannerman in Belleville, Ontario, disclosed she has had shingles, which affected her vision. She reminisced about growing up in Canada and participated in a geologic survey following “Agnes.” She’s had both hips done surgically several years ago. After graduating from Hood, she lived in Canada and Virginia. She nearly married. She has endured Guillain-Barré syndrome, resulting in her being in George Washington U. Hospital four and a half months; she had to learn to re-use every muscle in her body. She taught history, political science, ancient and English history at U. of Colorado; was involved with social studies. She obtained a master’s degree in sociology as well as in history while at Oxford. Our classmate retired in 1988 and learned her mother became blind. Her address includes living in her grandparents’ home consisting of two cottages that are constructed in a horseshoe formation. Having the opportunity to scan The “Williamsonian,” a newsletter of Williamson College of the Trades in Media, PA, I noticed an article of the passing of a classmate’s husband. My husband Mark attended Williamson from 1950 to 1953. As we are downsizing and clearing files, the spring 2001 edition showed a picture and article concerning Anne Funk Maxwell’s husband Howard Maxwell. Max passed away peacefully at home in March 2001 after a long illness. Anne preceded Max in death in 1988. Max was described as a committed educator and had served as president of Williamson College from 1985 to 1987. A good friend of Williamson all his life, they appreciated his loyalty and efforts as their President. A graduate of Gettysburg College in 1952, he served as a Navy officer during the Korean War. After receiving his MAT from Harvard U., he taught in Newtown, MA, Public Schools and then became director of alumni relations of Gettysburg College (concurrent with our classmate Anne Funk’s serving as Hood’s alumni officer—that mutual opportunity enabled their meeting). Max continued his educational career at U. of Michigan; earned his doctorate from SUNY Albany; was dean of students at Hartwick College, Oneonta, NY; VP of Commission of Independent Colleges and Universities for State of NY. Then Williamson president before serving as president of Girard College, Philadelphia, a school he attended from age 7. Charlotte Rees Miura passed away unexpectedly Sept. 2, 2016 in Madison, WI. Married to Dr. Akira Miura, a professor of Japanese at the University of Wisconsin. Their family consists of son Asa and daughter Hana. Asa and his wife have two children—Kin, 11, and Risa, 7. Our deepest sympathy to the Miura family. It was so thoughtfully kind of daughter Hana to call me to inform me of her mother’s passing. Charlotte earned a bachelor’s degree from Hood as a history major and a master’s in education from Columbia University. Joan Wagner Tolbert endured several years of experiencing multiple myeloma. Mark and I were able to attend her funeral Oct. 8, 2016 at Middle Springs Presbyterian Church, Shippensburg, PA. We had the privilege of sharing sorrow with that family. Joan and her deceased husband’s granddaughter, Hannah, attends Hood College as a sophomore and gratefully wears her grandmother’s Hood Ring, which Joan was able to give to her. Rod was influential at Shippensburg University where he taught and later was invited to help establish Shippensburg’s graduate program in education after serving as school superintendent in a nearby school district. Rod preceded Joan in death by several years. Having endured bone cancer, Mark and I felt blessed in having Joan and Rod’s presence at our wedding Sept. 29, 2012. Betty Remsberg DeColigny faithfully keeps in touch while continuing to care for husband Warren. Their daughters and granddaughters keep them inspired. Granddaughter Erin Thomas graduated from Frostburg University with a degree in psychology, is an honor student and is now studying for a master’s degree in sociology from Salisbury University. The second granddaughter of Warren and Betty’s triplets, Kelli Thomas was married Sept. 17. Completing the triad, Cindy Armentrout and Christopher Ray married July 11, 2015. Warren and Betty are lighthouse fans and have toured extensively in the U.S. to continue their travel focus on them. Recent cruises they have celebrated included one from Baltimore Harbor to the Caribbean plus a bus trip to New England; Mystic Harbor, CT; Boston, MA; and Southern Maine. Dr. Betsy D. Oehrle reported, “Audley Gardens had a wonderful month of November in the U.S. seeing old friends—first Mary-Lou Springhorn Leidheiser ’52 flew from Chicago to Pittsburgh. We had three very special days together. Then I went to see dear Jane Taggart Whittaker ’52, P’78 in New Jersey on my way back to South Africa. We had a joyous time in Princeton, NJ, with Sally, her youngest. Even drove down the street where I saw Albert Einstein in 1955. It was so good to be home, but for the results of the election. I pray that all will be better than we expect, and if not, that we can make it better. Greetings to all with love and joy. Betsy.” Your class correspondent is moving from 2220 Ritner Highway Carlisle, PA, to 13 Fulton Dr., Cross Keys Village, The Brethren Home Community, New Oxford, PA, 17350-9382. New telephone is 717-624-3960. Mark and I feel blessed to fully experience the rest of our lives in this peaceful retirement community.

1954

Jean Baker Leister Weikert
717-243-5364

Thank you for those who keep in touch!  Alice Avanozian Arana wrote a splendid news letter telling of her husband Oswald Arana passing away.  Thankfully, they shared writing a Spanish work book, 10^th edition for the first year textbook, Puntos De Partida, successful for over 30 years.  What a meaningful, enduring legacy!  Their family includes Cecilia, who works with life size puppets in NYC, a kid’s project.  Middle son, David, lives in Burbank, California and is a musician.  He has his own studio and works with several orchestras and bands, arranging their music, as well as with several vocalists.  Michael, the youngest, is a lawyer and serves as a DJ in several NY clubs.  Alice keeps busy at her residence Morningside in Fullerton, California with line dancing, fitness classes, and library committee.  Barbara Weaver Batdorf thoughtfully wrote a summer of her and Jack’s life together.  They are still living in the home they built in 1963.  Jack, a retired pharmacist, and Barbara, who is still interested in reading, enjoy their constructed green house where they propagate and grow a variety of plants.  Their daughter Ann lives and works in Washington, D.C.  Middle son, Mark, is living outside of Dallas, Texas.  Son, John, is living in Santa Cruz, California in a beautiful beach home.  Betty Remsberg DeColigny wrote of Warren and her travels, including a mid-June visit to Mystic, Connecticut.  Their triplet granddaughters are happily busy.  Erin Thomas graduating from Frostburg University with a psychology major, honors and continuous study for a Master’s Degree in sociology from Salisbury University.  She is also working at Homewood Retirement center in the dietary department.  Granddaughter Relli Thomas is to be married in September.  Completing the triad is Cindy Armentrout, who was married to Chris Ray last July.  A thought-provoking letter from Sally Bogar Hedstrom, M.S. ’81 reported that her husband Ray Hedstrom passed away last May.  Our condolences and prayers, Sally, for your regaining strength after being a caregiver.  Wendell Stockdale, Jane Hinkle Stockdale’s, P’78 husband, wrote a devoted letter last December, talking of Jane’s March 4, 2015 stroke, with her presently being in a skilled nursing, where they reside at Willow Valley in Lancaster.  Betsy Oehrle included pictures in her Christmas letter of beginning the Annual Durban, South Africa Commemorative Salt March from Mahatma Gandhi’s home in Phoenix to the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban.  Betsy sends prayers for true peace, respect, loving wisdom, compassionate friendships and joyous energy.  As your class correspondent, it is safe to say Mark and I continue to be happily busy newlyweds and feel blessed to have fresh perspectives at our age (83).  We keep being content with home, family, church, friends, scripture study, maintaining health, ballroom dancing, gardening, and yes, keeping a balance electronically. Son, Andy Leister, experienced a stroke in May 2015, which compounded adjustment to the previous surgeries at Penn State Hershey Medical Center in 1976 and 2010.  We’re visiting regularly at the nursing home at the Brethren Home in New Oxford, Pennsylvania.  Thankfully, we have a supportive family which is helping with restorative therapy since he has right-side paralysis and decreasing vision.  Our remaining children, Kathy with her husband Orrin Orewiler; Christine Abrams; Heidi with her husband Ron Haafre and Daniel Leister are all residing in Hanover, Pennsylvania.  Grandchildren: Kelsey, Sierra and Sean Miller; David with new wife Rachel and Rachel Abrams; Erin and Nick Haafre are dispersed throughout Hanover, Cambridge, England, Fort Gordon, Georgia, Mansfield University, Pennsylvania, Lincoln Intermediate Unit, Harrisburg Area Community College, and Millersville University.  The youngest grandson heading for St. John in Annapolis, Maryland.  Reunion on the 12^th of June was a joyous one with seeing grad school classmate Magaly Mauras Green ’74, M.A.’79 and undergraduate classmate Barbara Weaver Batdorf and her husband John.  It was reassuring to hear our new President, Dr. Andrea Chapdelaine speak at lunch.  Barbara, Jack, Mark and I were lucky to share a table with Lois Vars Mason ’51, Betsy McCain McAlpine ’51, with her husband, along with a few other members of the class of 1951.  Thanks again for keeping in touch!

Jean Baker Leister Weikert
717-243-5364

Betty Remsburg DeColigny is involved in taking her husband, Warren, to the doctors and lab for blood work, Coumadin count, and later, cataract surgery in May. Triplet granddaughters keep them busily aware! Mary Johnston DeMaris reminded us of her attending Moore Institute of Art in Philadelphia, then married Darryl in June 1953. Darryl entered the Navy after being at Drexel and Marymount University. They traveled to Newport, Rhode Island, then to D.C. Two Children: Mike and Laurie. Mari’s hoping to be able to move closer to Darryl who is in rehab at Arleigh Burke Nursing in McLean. Sister Betsy Johnson Schwegman, class of ’55, lives in Missouri. Ann Timanus Erickson’s activity is limited by an old fractured hip, and is living alone in a handicapped house. She enjoys the preservation activities of Princess Anne, Maryland, where she resides. Nancy Good Cleveland and Jack’s daughter kindly wrote to clarify her mother’s passing after a long illness. Anne related that her mother spoke fondly of her many Hood friends and wonderful memories. Jack had preceded Nancy in death. Jack and Nancy also had a son Brian, and three grandchildren: Sarah, Samuel, and Andrew. Parented by Anne and Benjamin Gord of Wellesley, Massachusetts. Her obituary told of her involvement with Meals on Wheels for over 25 years. She was also active with church in Danbury, Connecticut. We also mourn loss during 2015: Joanne Wilcox Goins, Joyce Spencer Bishop, Violet Westerberg Romito, Dolores Rossetti Twaddell, and Betsy Gary Guthridge. Susan Clement Christie tells of her and Ed’s yearly trip to Lake Tahoe, California, celebrating their 61st wedding anniversary. She and Ed relish the extraordinary beauty of the mountains. Four children: Cathy, Beth, Patty and Ted. Ed had quadruple bypass about five years ago. He exercises regularly and weighs less than when they married. Sue has also endured health issues. Marylyn Walters Corey and Eugene sold their greenhouse business. They married after her freshman year, and are celebrating 64 years! Four children, nine grandchildren, five great grandchildren. Marylyn remembers Joan Wagner Tolbert whose granddaughter entered Hood this year. Janet Marra had retired as a child and family therapist and is happily active living in the North Carolina Mountains. Her biggest news is her marriage to Rita Newkirk who she has lived with for 36 years. Janet says it was an unexpected, great, emotional experience. Congratulations Janet, with fond memories of Margaret Rawson’s social work seminar! Mid-August was brightened by Peggy Patterson Sabiston’s letter. Peggy would love to hear from anyone who cares to write. She’s been widowed since ’95, has two sons, four grandchildren, seven great grandchildren, plus one great, great grandchild. A conversation with Amalia (Molly) Heineman Lueder is always delightful. She’s enjoying living in Florida. A beautiful story from Catherine (Kay) Arrington Smith. Kay wrote of earlier contacts with Didi Switzer. Kay worked in a Philadelphia jewelry store before marrying Bertrand Dean Smith, 2nd Lt. U.S. Navy Academy graduate, Class of ’53. They were born in the same town, high school sweethearts, and married in 1953. Dean was commissioned in the Air Force. Parents of four sons: Stewart, a Washington, D.C. architect; Christopher, an army special operations retired pilot decorated with the Silver Star; Matthew, a consultant to industry for fall protection; and Aaron, Army Res. Lt. Colonel pilot now assigned to counter terrorism unit at the state department and also a county police officer. Kay is a grandmother of 15, and a great grandmother of 13. In addition to being a wife, mother and homemaker, she taught history in a private school, then did some county commissioner work. Later she was an office manager for two family businesses. Dean passed away this year. Kay feel the blessing of having three sons live nearby so they may cope together with their loss. She devotedly tells us of their 61 years, with an eternity together in the next life. A touching post-script that Dean distinguished himself finishing his military career with the Joint Chiefs of Staff in the Pentagon. Another great conversation from Marilyn Ogden Heath who is still involved in teaching, riding and dressage, despite a hip replacement. She an Al are also confronting downsizing.

Jean Baker Leister Weikert
717-243-5364

News from Maryland, Massachusetts, Virginia and Pennsylvania highlighted communications this spring! Jeannie McCarty Bowen and Ray are still in their same Gaithersburg home. Ray is still enjoying dental work. Jeannie is doing photos on the computer and learning to use the iPad.  They are enjoying senior center activities (lectures, museum trips; jeanbo1@verizon.net). Kaye Peterson Boothman is an obviously gifted oil painter, sending a lovely note card with her painting of “Hardwick Center.” Although dealing with health issues, she had time to write and send a newsy letter which is much appreciated. Dorris Smith Radcliffe, although retired from being class reporter relayed a great letter describing her diligence with caring for Rip’s recovery from foot surgery. Another two or three months from April should yield better maneuvering for him. She was attending two high school graduations and three college commencements. Eagle Scout Honor Court prevented their attending the 2014 Hood Reunion. The past year was occupied with keeping in touch with family, friends, homemaking, church and continuing adjustments to eldest son (55) Andy’s disability from non-malignant brain cancer surgery, and ballroom dancing and gardening.  It was great to see Betty Remsburg Decoligny when she visited here in Carlisle. She, too, is dealing with extended health issues with Warren. Betty attended the 2014 Reunion as did Tillie Jacks Sunnygard.  Joan Wagner Tolbert lives nearby in Shippensburg. My grandchildren, ranging in age from 16 to 26 are in Hua Hin, Thailand; Seoul, South Korea; Mansfield College, Pa.; and, Hanover, Pa. I’m thankful for all of the blessings in life which continue to astound me.

Jean Louise Baker Leister Weikert, Class Reporter

I, Jean Louise Baker Leister Weikert, am thankful to be able to serve as the class reporter and hope to be able to communicate with each member of the class of 1954. Kudos to Dorris Smith Radcliffe for her many years of faithful service as our class reporter. It is heartwarming to have Joan Wagner Tolbert living nearby. I have occasionally heard from Betsy Oehrle at Christmas. Mark and I were pleased to host Betty Remsberg DeColigny last August for lunch. At reunion, it was great to see Tillie Jacks Sunnygard. In addition, Dr. Joyce  Michaud was a delight to share dinner and tell us about the ceramic arts program and show us the new kilns on Sunday after the chapel service. Peace and Love, Jean Louise Baker Leister Weikert.