Too many of our class have left us long before their time. Bringing them back to us would be our first wish, but honoring them with a recollection of the memories of our shared times may be the best that we can do.
We miss them in so many ways.
If you can find the time and strength to leave a note (tribute) in their honor............ mouse click on the tribute button below their picture and type it in.........or, start a whole new one by mouse clicking on the Add a Memorial link below.
Willis was one of the nicest guys you could know and a good friend. After serving time in Viet Nam, he was stationed at Fort Lewis in Tacoma, Washington where I was also stationed. We had some great times with him and Eamma. It's great to reflect on the memory of a great guy.
Sandy was the first young woman I ever tried to dance with and she didn't even laugh at my clumsy toe stepping effort. I liked her for that and her genuine personality
From Ted Brim on May 2nd, 2016
Clipping from the paper. Just the kind of thing Sandy would do.
From Tom Claflin on April 29th, 2016
Being from homogenous Bowling Green, when a teacher brought up a question regarding solving the problem of racial stife in our country, most of us, at least from my parochial perspective, were pretty clueless. I very distinctly remember, though, in some class in the 9th grade, I think, Sandy speaking up and observing that the only real solution was a lot of intermarriage. At the time, in Bowling Green in the early 60's, I was really impressed by what I thought was a very astute observation. She was a good one.
Barbara BentleyLayman led a life well lived.A beloved wife of Elvin for nearly 54 years, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister and friend, Barb died on April 24, 2020. An unsung hero, she was a school bus driver prior to working at the license bureau. An avid bowler, Barb was inducted into the Women's Bowling Hall of Fame. She will be missed by her extended family and friends.
Upon receiving the notice of our 50th reunion, Steve Franke, Catherine's husband, wrote the following to Tom:
"Catherine was truly the love of my life and we were blessed in every way."
Catherine and Steve raised two children in Fort Recovery, OH and doted on their four grandchildren in recent years. She retired in July 2013 after a successful career as fiscal officer and income tax administrator of Fort Recovery. Catherine was instantly killed in a traffic accident the following October. She is sorely missed by family and friends.
Bringing the joy of music to others was what Mary did. She served as the pianist of her church and also shared her talent as she volunteered to play at many area nursing homes. Mary was a secretary for Wood County Hospital. A life long resident of Bowling Green, Mary is missed by her family and friends.
Jack led a life of service. He served in the United States Air Force, was a trustee at his church, a Tontogany Councilman, and volunteer firefighter. He belonged and served the Elks, VFW, Zenobia Shriners and Masons. Jack spent his career at Al Smith Crysler Dodge in Bowling Green, over a span of 32 years. He is missed by his large and loving family. Thank you for your service.
I remember Debbie's eyes; I am not sure why. Her eyes and a ready smile made her face radiate through the halls of BGHS. In her adult life, Deb loved dogs! She owned many and showed them in competitions around the country. She belonged to many dog clubs. After 25 years at BGSU working in clerical positions, Deb retired allowing her more time to pursue her interests in quilting and sewing, making gifts for family and friends. Unfortunately, she lost her courageous battle with cancer. She was survived by her four legged companion, Jaxson.
I believe that Marvin took me to the senior prom. He was a good friend and fellow student with Barbara Shrider Taylor in the art classes. It was a fun time and feel badly that we lost touch. Marvin was a kind soul.
Donna, a mother, grandmother and great grandmother passed away in August, 2014. She enjoyed playing golf and a good game of euchre. She was administrative assistant for the Toledo Fire Department.
Although our paths had long ago parted, I can still remember spending time at Donna's after school during fifth or sixth grade. She, too, came from a rollicking family of five kids. There was never a dull moment.
I give Karen credit for jump-starting our 45th reunion. When a bunch of us came back to BG for her memorial, we decided that too much time had passed and time was too precious to waste. So the idea for the 45th reunion was hatched. Thanks, Karen. Really wish you were here to enjoy our 50th with us!
From Sue Baker Hoane on April 16th, 2016
Sharing many experiences as cheerleaders our senior year, Karen and I knew the thrill of victory and the agony of defeat (14 basketball losses in a row!), but we knew how to have fun, stay positive, and plan those crazy pep rallies. With her untimely and much too early death haunting many of us, we committed ourselves to reconnecting with our BGHS past and our 45th reunion was the culmination of that determination. We honor her memory and the memory of all those who have passed...Go Bobcats!
Girls and football was all there was. Marv said, "you seem to have a gift in English. Why don't you investigate that possibility?" I did, which led to a 32 year career sharing Shakespeare, predicate adjectives, and Mark Twain with Wyoming youngsters. Thanks, Marv.
Porky (as he hated to be called) and I were friends in highschool but became really cloes when we both pledged Pi Kappa Alpha in college. We shared a deep love of music, especially the Beatles. We enjoyed renewing our friendship at each reunion. He is another who is gone too soon.
From Beth Noe-June on September 11th, 2016
I remember finding out that Mike had passed away. The BG Fab Five (Annie, Susie, Kathy, Suzanne and me --- that's what we called ourselves) were in Phoenix AZ at Suzanne Rectenwald Halley's home enjoying our annual get together when the news came about Mike. We were shocked and saddened. I think we still are!
From Tom Claflin on April 12th, 2016
Mike was one of my best childhood friends. We used to blow up things together in his basement "chemistry lab" and run other "experiments". He had an impressive intellect and always amazed with his memory, especially for song lyrics, but really anything in which he had an interest. This did not always include schoolwork. After high school, although we might not speak for years at a time, when we did, the shared memories and new observations were great times.
Jeanne was active during our high school years. She participated in choir, GAA, and FTA. She continued to be active in the Bowling Green Community where she and classmate Larry Turner raised their family. Jeanne was a Charter Member of Bowling Green Homemakers, an active participant in the local quilting community, and she found the time to deliver Wood County Hospital's Wheeled Meals. For 20 years, Jeanne served as a legal secretary for Halleck and Geer Attorneys -at-Law.
Always Loved Your Smile and those Beautiful Blue eyes...such a HOTTY you were....I am so proud of your accomplishments...does not surprise me at all....Thank you for your service To our country..You left us way too soon....love and miss you, my dear friend!
From Beth Noe-June on September 8th, 2016
Eric Fletcher was one of the nicest and most polite kids in school. That is what I remember. He ran like the wind, his eyes (oh, those eyes) twinkled and he was a humble as could be. We all know how our Vietnam vets were treated when they returned from their battles --- and they derserved so much better than that. I do not pretend to know what Eric went through when he returned from the war. But I do know that he eventually turned his life around and became a valuable part of the recovery of others. Thank you, Eric....... for serving and fighting for our rights and freedom and for being someone I am proud to call a friend.
From Jack Wagner on June 15th, 2016
Its Memorial Day today & I write this to Eric Fletcher. All of us remember the talented kid of our high school years. He was our version of James Dean. Thats not the part of this gifted man's life that I am writing about today
Eric Fletcher was one of the most highly decorated soldiers of the entire Viet Nam war. One night while guarding an infiltration trail, armed with a 50 caliber machine gun Eric was credited with over 50 kills. For his effort Eric was awarded the Distinguished Serice Cross, the medal just below the Medal of Honor. A year & a half after his discharge he was still receiving Silver & Bronz Stars for Valor.
Eric you were my friend & will always be my Hero.
From Sue (Baker) Hoane on May 15th, 2016
"These eyes'" by The Guess Who came to mind as I sat to write this. Damn, Eric had great eyes and who could forget his curly hair. In our class poll, we voted him the guy with the prettiest eyes, but those eyes sure saw a lot, and much of it was not pretty. He was a Purple Heart recipient for his service in Viet Nam serving with the Army's 101st Airborne Division. At the time of his untimely death, he was a counselor at Shelter Care/Safe Landing in Akron. Eric saw and endured a lot. I can only imagine how proud he and his family were when he graduated Magma Cum Laude from the university of Akron in 1989. He had turned his life around.
Thank you, Eric, for your service. "These eyes are cryin..."
From Larry Miller on April 16th, 2016
After Vietnam was a hard time for vets. I know because like Eric, I was a combat veternan. And coming home was no picinic. I first saw his grave as I was leaving those of my parents. It is by the north fence in the cemetery. When walking to the car, it shocked me. I know much of his story but wish I knew more. Those of us who served say to each other, welcome home, because no one else did. Welcome home Eric.
Mike was and continued to be a really nice guy. Even though we had differing views politically, we managed to 'agree to disagree' and talk with respect and humanity. That was Mike. Kind. Strong in his beliefs yet not willing to throw away friendships because of differences. I am so sorry that Mike lost the battle with COVID. He had so much more to share with all of us. Rest in Peace, Mike.
Rod and I lived just around the corner from each other growing up and in elementary school we were frequent early morning companions, especially during the summer when it was light early, but no one else was awake, yet. Vivid in my memory most of all, is going to the golf course on several July 5th’s to collect unexploded fireworks pellets and lighting them (all black pellets, but you never knew what color you were going to get, sort of like Forrest Gump’s chocolates) back home or one year at Mike Ellerbrock’s.
Fun times.
RIP, Rod.
While at BGHS, Phil ran cross country and track. He set a new school record for the mile run and contributed to a very successful 1966 Spring track season.
Phil was a veteran of both the US Marine Corps and the US Army and active in the VFW and American Legion. He died in Kansas in October of 2010. We give thanks for his service to our country.
From Joy (ce) Rider (Seabright,Zerbo) on April 17th, 2016
The last time I came to BG was in October '99 for Robin's funeral. I stayed in Michigan with Judy Carpenter and her family, which was a wonderful experience. Robin was a sweet soul and a very DEAR friend. I miss her still. Until we meet again...blessing upon you Robin.
I remained friends with Sue till she passed away in the intensive care unit at MUO. I was there with her chldren at the time of her passing. She remained the thoughtful, caring, smiling person that we all remember her being in high school. She graduated from college with a teaching degree, but her diabetes hindered her from a full time teaching career, so she was able to be at home more with her children-Kevin and Karah. Since she had such a short time with them, looking back, I know that it was meant to be.
I remember playing tennis with her in the early mornings at B.G.S.U., then hurrying to get her something to eat-we always got her some food before she had any problems! I am sure that her Mom didn't know what exactly we were doing, or she would have lectured us- or told us outright not to do it. Those were the days!
Still missing her-
Susie
From Joy Rider on April 23rd, 2016
I still tell the story of Sue's science project final results. Her mother would not allow her to bring her wihite mice home, so I took them in. They were very tame and it was fun to allow them to run over my arms and hair. Sue was a wonderful caring person and a good friend. I regret losing track of her after high school. But I am thankful for the happy memories we shared.
As you can see by the photo, Diane was a member of Girl Scout Troop 154. There were 12 members of the troop in the Class of 1966. Our troop members were honorary pall bearers at Diane's furneral in Bowling Green when we were about 12 years old. Diane was sweet and her passing was very disturbing to us. Something one remembers for a lifetime.
From Sue (Baker) Hoane on April 27th, 2016
From the 1964 Hi Echo..."Diane was a quiet girl, a sweet girl. She was not able to join in many activities, but she loved life. The tragedy was not in her death, but in all the things that she did not have the chance to do."
A life long resident of Bowling Green, Ruth graced its schools, the community, and yes, its Kroger, with her quiet prescence. She was an active parishioner of St. Aloysius Church, serving as a member of the Alter and Rosary Society, the Chanticle Choir and an Eucharistic minister. Ruth was survived by her husband, Leo Schifferli and her two children.
Gordon lived a few blocks from me and became a good friend. He was a gentle poetic soul with a bright inquisitive mind. He opened a closed heart and mind for which I have always been grateful. He reminded me of the folk singer Donovan (one of my star "crushes"). I lost track after leaving Bowling Green. My friend, I hope your life journey was filled with love and happiness. Peace.
I have fond and lasting memories of times shared with Linda in scouts and during the yearbook period in Mr. Dunn's room. Although I confess, we were not always hard at work on the Hi Echo!! She was a kind and gentle soul with an absolutely terrific smile. You are remembered Linda.
I remember Janet from way, way back when we were too young to drive but old enough to want to be where the guys were! She lived almost next door to the Pee Wee League Park on what was then the far East side of town. We could walk to the park from her house to sort of stalk the boys we liked. We were young and innocent, trusting too. Janet always smilled - always. That is what I will always remember about her --- her smile.
Oh Butch......I can hear your laugh and I can hear your Southern drawl. You'd drag it out a bit - and then laugh. What I remember is that you were upbeat and encouraging. You never lost your boyish charm or compromised who you were. There was only one Butch Morgan and you did it so well!
From Susan Hoane on October 4th, 2020
Burchel (our Butch) Morgan died on September 20, 2020. Larger than life in personality and sature, Butch will be missed by family, friends and Classmates of our Class of 1966. Butch loved sports as a participant and fan as evidenced by his enthusiastic support of the University of Kentucky Wilcats basketball program. His professional career centered on information technology. He retired as the IT Director of the city of Melbourne, FL. He then returned to his roots in Southern Indiana. For over 50 years he was active in the Masons rising to a 32nd degree Master Mason. Butch is gone, but he will not be easily forgotten.
Roy and Jaci got married while we were still in high school and remained married until his too early passing. A great tribute to them both in beating the odds and building a life and family, two children and four grandchildren, together.
His interests icluded NASCAR, dirt track racing, woodworking and the Detroit Lions. Rest in Peace.
From Terry Kreidler on May 3rd, 2016
When I moved to BG from Detroit in 1960, I was viewed with skepticism because I wa a big city boy in a rual town. I was the proverbial fish out of water. This didn't bother Roy any, he befriended me from our first meeting. I consider him my first friend in BG and was sad to hear of his passing.
Parties in the basement of the Renz house --- oh yes! Looking back now, we were so innocent - but thought we were big stuff! And like Susie Baker Hoane, I remember her as our Bobby Bobcat.....she had pep and energy and even under that costume, she always had a smile. I remember her at our 45th and I didn't get a chance to talk to her. I regret that very much because now it is too late. Let that be a lesson to us all at the 50th --- try to get around to seeing everyone!!
From Sue Baker Hoane on April 16th, 2016
Francy...She was our Bobbie Bobcat during our senior year and forever in my mind. Francy's bubbly personality was infectious. Her great sense of humor and sense of fun made every sleepover at her house an adventure. She made life so, so interesting for all of us! A true "Drama Queen". So I say..Don't cry because it's over. Smile because it happened. (Thank you Dr. Suess)
Karen certainly shared her work skills and talents with Bowling Green's public institutions. She worked for BGSU, the city of Bowling Green and Wood County. A life long resident of BG, Karen belonged to the auxillaries of Mose Lodge, Eagles 2180, VFW 1148, and AMVETS 711. She is survived by her husband, Art, and their sons Kyle and Kevin and their grandchildren.
Barb, was a BFF to me. One of the friendliest persons I knew. She could also easily control a class of unruly high school students. After graduating from BGSU, Barb moved to Flint Michigan where she taught art in the public schools until retirement. A favorite memory is meeting Barb and her husband Les in Orlando when they chaparoned the senior class trip of Flint Michigan High School. Over many years she kept the girls/women of Girl Scout Troop 154 communicating together from the ages of 7 through when she died at 71. I miss her.
Although I didn't socialize much with Diane at school, she made my trip to the 10th reunion a great memory. I had changed in appearance a great deal. As we danced and laughed, we teased each other because neither could guess the other's name. When we finally couldn't hold out any longer, we laughed long and hard realizing who the other was. She was sweet, funny, and warm, just as I had always remembered.
From Terry Kreidler on May 3rd, 2016
When I was planning the program for our 20th reunion, I contacted Shorty (as we all knew her as) because I heard she had a lot of memorabilia for our high school days. She said she would be happy to help out and sent me a large box full of memories. She had nearly every single copy of the Scarlet Parrot from our high school years and many other things. I was terribly saddened to hear of her passing.
From Annie Herron on May 3rd, 2016
Short and sweet. That was Diane. Although short of stature, she certainly was big at heart. Diane was our Homecoming Queen, a friend to all with a kind word for anyone and everyone. We loved her and now we miss her. She was the best!
How do we want to be remembered? By our work history? Community activities? Family? Larry 's life can be defined by each of these and more. He was a company man- 37 years at Campbell Soup Company. He served as a volunteer firefighter for Grand Rapids, OH. He was a family man- husband of Kay for 47 years, father, grandfather and great grandfather. Larry loved to fish, traveling to Alabama, and most of all his family... his finest legacy.
I met Ruth after dating her sister a short time during sophomore year. It was my first year in BG and hadn't made a lot of friends. My cousins had grown up in BG but I was the new kid. Both Ruth, her sister and her mom always made me feel welcome at their home. We shared many laughs and some tears. Ruth was my date for the junior prom and I still have our picture in front of the cruise ship background. I will always remember her fondly for her heart, warmth and friendship. ....and making me get up and dance during prom.
We knew her as Becky. We chose her as the most athletic gal in the Class of '66. She was short, sweet and sincere. Becky served the Bowling Green City Schools as secretary for the Superintendant for 32 years. Did I mention she was dedicated?!. Her passion was her family who mourn her passing. Devoted wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, Becky was all in, seldom missing a chance to enjoy her family while traveling, attending activities or enjoying the out-of-doors. She did it her way.
From Cheryll Rabin Plotkin on April 17th, 2016
Becky was such a sweet and accomplished girl and woman, loved by her family and friends. I knew Becky as a member of Girl Sout troop 154. We scouts have become life -long friends. I will always remember a kind and gentle soul.
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