......LHS News......
Originally sent May 21

Very sorry to report the passing of Donna Kaye (Fuqua) Goodman of Norman. Donna passed May 19 after a lengthy illness. Donna was class of 1960. She is survived by her husband Michael; daughter Natalie; sister Patti, '59.
There will be a memorial service at 2:00pm on Thursday May 27 at the Primrose Funeral Service in Norman.
Extended obit and guest book at: http://www.legacy.com/dignity-memorial/obituary.aspx?n=Donna-Goodman&lc=4954&mid=4259230

Also passing, Johnny Byron Hunt, 76, of Lawton. Johnny passed on May 15. He was LHS class 1951. He is survived by wife Queva June (Churchwell); a son, Ron; daughter, Rhonda; sisters Nancy Herritt and Dorothy Kensell. Services with full military honors were May 18 at Sunset Memorial Gardens.
Extended obit and guest book at: www.beckerfuneral.com

I have just learned that Bruce Adkins passed back in February 2010. Bruce worked civil service in OKC area. He was LHS class of 1950 or '51. That is all the information I have.

From the eMail bag and 'land line'.....
Jack McKinnis called me to let me know he had talked with Perry Martin. Jack said Perry was in 'good spirits' and doing 'ok'....Perry told Jack, he was just not 'doing as good as his daughter thought he should'.

Also, John & Kay (Thomas) Tillman emailed and they had talked with Perry. I know Perry is happy to her from old friends and classmates.

Verna (Brammer) Zeiders, '52, wrote that her (aunt) Billie and Bob (Pee Wee - "coach") Williams, lost everything in the bad storm/tornado that went through Oklahoma on the 10th. 'Coach' lived on a farm north of Earlsboro, OK...lost the farmhouse and 3 barns. ALL gone. Their daughter called from Tulsa to warn them to take cover, they barely made it to a small hallway bathroom, when the roof went. Fortunately, they were not injured. Verna says they are looking for a temporary rental place in Shawnee as they hope to re-build at the 'farm'.
They are all 1944 grads of LHS, Billie & her sister Bettie were LHS cheerleaders!

Laurie Ann (Abshire) Patterson, class '56, sent me a couple of great old pictures. I have posted them on the blog. Look to see who you recognize. Not sure year of big group picture, but Lauries says one of the girls is their Freshman year. I appreciate Laurie for sharing some great 'memories'. Take a look at: http://thewolvernet.blogspot.com/2010/05/blog-post_21.html

Appreciate other emails from: Wanda Gayle (Smith) Sunderland, '55; Mitch Braley; Jimmy Don Couch; Tommy Cook; Mexlvin Sexton; Ellen(Ewing) Janhke; Dan Glascock; Larry Joe.

.....btw.....some have asked.....class 1955...a reunion coming up anytime soon????

Reminder: Saturday June 5. A combined reunion for "40 Plus" including LHS,class '65; Eisenhower, class '66; and St, Mary's, class '67. Mikes Sports Grill, 6:00pm; $15.00 per person; hors d'oeuvres and ca$h bar; casual dress.
RSVP: Gary Scott, PO Box 6421, Lawton, OK 73506. garyscott6@gmail.com

To let you know, just open, some new rooms at Medicine Park if you want to stay a day or longer. The Apache Inn - according to historic records, the building was dedicated 1915 - burned back in the 1940's. Wasn't much left after the fire but all that could be salvaged was, and now, rebuilt on the original foundation, a new 20 room inn with modern and comfortable amenities! Renamed, the 'Plantation Inn.' Guests will register down the street (same side - north) at the Plantation Restaurant (formerly, the Grand Hotel). The inn is open and for information or reservations call (580) 529-6161; www.theoldplantationrestaurant.com
There are also cabins to rent at Medicine Park and a bed and breakfast if you want to spend some time in the area.

Regards to all from the home town........Georgia

I have received word from Mary (Harris) Thompson, '56, that this photo is a copy of one she took at the old High School. L-r: Myrna Kaye Langley; Yvonne (Anderson) Coombs; Laurie (Abshire) Patterson; kneeling - Charlotte McGill

Pictures sent from Laurie Ann (Abshire) Patterson, class of 1956. First one is of 'the girls' Other is at 'church camp'. Do you recognize classmates or others?

......LHS News......

Originally sent May 16

I always hate to pass along news of those we have lost and it's especially difficult when it's some one I have known personally and all my life. Louis Yarmuk, 91, passed on Sunday May 16 in Lawton. Louis has been in ill health for several years. Louis was born in Lawton and grew up here, graduating from LHS in 1936. He married Marie Smith in 1938, she passed in 2008. Louis is father of our '59 classmate and my life long friend Babs Givens and her sister Teresa Adair. Services for Louis will be 10:00am on Wednesday May 19, First Christian church in Lawton. Burial will follow at Highland Cemetery.

Extended obit and guest book at: www.beckerfuneral.com

Also passing recently, Thomas A. 'Tom' Wade, 58, of Lawton. Tom passed on May 11 and services were held May 14. Tom is a '70 grad of LHS. He is survived by 3 daughters; 1 granddaughter; 9 brothers; 3 sisters. He was preceded in death by his parents Charles and Madge Wade.

Extended obit and guest book at: www.grayfuneral.com

I know our sympathies are with these who have lost loved ones.

Mike Wyant has asked for your prayers concerning his 33 year old son Ash. Ash has extremely serious heart problems from age 5 and for the past year and half has been undergoing tests. He has just been told that he cannot be placed on a list for a transplant. His condition is very fragile and where they go from here is not certain. Ash lives in CA with wife Rebecca and his two daughters, Luminara (4) and Petra (2). Please keep them in your prayers.

From the eMail bag:

I receive monthly newsletters from '59 classmate Jerry (Sasser) Childs and this months' featured a picture of Jerry and her husband - Ron - as they go about their missionary work in Niger. They have been in Africa some 30+ years. (pix above)

Email from Ron Hagler, '58, at the ANA National Money Show in Ft. Worth. Ron says nothing wrong, policeman just 'guarding' the million dollars! Hummmmm? Run Ron, Run!!! (pix above)

Excerpt from email from '59 classmates Jerry and Kay (Pavillard) Otis.....as I had mentioned they were close to OKC tornado....

"Jerry and I rode out the tornados in our storm shelter (located in the garage) along with our dog Abby. We had to move the car that was parked over the shelter out to the driveway in order to have access to the shelter. The storm produced baseball size hail and the only damage we received was rear window of our car which was shattered plus many "dings" on the car. When they show the damage, I am amazed that more people weren't killed. .......headed to California on the 20th to stay with my grandson Tristan while my daughter Adrienne goes to a business conference. I'll be gone a week. The only thing I have to worry about out there is earthquakes! Ha!!"

More on the baseball team photo that was in last news:

"Georgia: This photo is of the Whittier Browns (maybe 13 and 14 year olds) The Cardinals were the 11 and 12 yr olds. My brother Bob and I were on the FIRST Cardinal team several years earlier. Since I was a St. Louis Cardinal fan, I talked them into being Cardinals. The team was coached by Mr Barnes, Glens father. Also on the team was Jimmy Ballard, Durvis Hulen, Pee Wee (Bill) Williams, and others I'm sorry I can't remember. We were Cardinals for two years and was joined by Jerry Long, Wayne Kniffin and others I can't remember. The next year we were the Browns, named after the St. Louis Browns, the first year of the Browns, with most of the same players. Several years ago, I took one of the original Whittier Cardinals t-shirts along with a photo of the Whittier Browns to Whittier Grade School. I was told it would be placed in the showcase at the school but I have not been by to see. I think the photo here is of the Browns their second year. Bobby and I were playing in the mens softball leagues, with our two older brothers, or we would have been on that team. Something I have always regretted. Sure brings back a lot of great memories. Keep things like this coming to us.

Thanks, Jimmy Reynolds"

PS: I keep remembering names of the first Whittier Cardinals team. Also on the team was Chad Bledsoe and Bob Keiningham. To the best of my remembrance, the photo was probably, maybe, at the 1948 Whittier Browns.

"Loved the baseball photo. If any of you in the Dallas-Ft. Worth area would like to see an old Wolverine in the musical Oklahoma, go to www.artisanct.com for details. My acting is so-so but I've got the accent down pat."

Gale McCray

PS Just click on OKLAHOMA and then click on Cast and Crew to see my photo and bio. Of course, my bio isn't that long. I was in my first play a little over 2 years ago and this is my third one. I play Andrew Carnes, the father of Ado Annie. Like I said, my acting is so-so, so I just try to channel Gabby Hayes. Play is double cast so my shows are Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday nights."

Major congrats to '59 classmate Tommy Hix and his wife Bonnie (Schaff), '60, as they celebrate their 50th - May 29th!

Received a land-line from '59 classmate Phil Wilder up Colorado way. We had a great visit about the good old days and friends we had in common. Phil and I attended school and church together! Appreciate and enjoyed the call.

Bill & I recently had opportunity to visit with Dr. Sam Hamra, '55, and his sister Sameera Murad, '52. They were both fine, looked great! We had a fun time reminiscing about the old neighborhood (we grew up next door to each other) and school days with old and dear friends! Sameera (Sissy) and Bill were in same class - '52. I'm much younger than all of them! I say in jest.....na-na-na!

Also had opportunity for a brief visit Saturday night with '59 classmate Julie (Ashlock) Weedn at an event in her hometown - Duncan!

Appreciate all the kind words from classmates across the country......so glad you enjoy the news. Remember, older news and photos archived at the blog: Right here!

Kind thoughts back at ya!~ Georgia

......LHS News......

Originally sent May 12

Classmates, again, lots more news and again, some not good. Happier news at bottom.

So sorry to report that Royce Crosby, 74, of Lawton passed Monday morning, May 10. Royce is LHS class '53. Royce had extensive heart surgery some months back and a series of problems. There will be a memorial service next Sunday, May 16, at 3:00pm, Whinnery Huddleston Funeral Home Chapel.Guest book at: http://www.whineryhuddleston.com/

Also passing, Naomi F. (Reinwand) Tillman, 66, of Owasso, OK. Naomi passed on May 4 at her home after a lengthy illness. Services were May 7 in Owasso. Naomi was LHS class '62 and wife of our '59 classmate Ray Tillman. Naomi is survived by Ray; a son and a daughter; several grandchildren.Extended obit and guest book at: http://www.memorialsolutions.com/sitemaker/sites/NickRe1/obit.cgi?user=203362Tillman

Ronald Ray Forgy, 70, of Elgin. Ron passed May 6 and services were May 10 in Lawton. I had received and sent some weeks back that Ron had serious health problems, but was stabilized for a brief time. He is survived by his wife, Louise (Monzingo); three children; numerous grandchildren; brothers Dana Forgy and Kenneth Forgy; sister Doris Newsom. I think Ron may have left school before graduation as he joined the Navy in 1957.

Extended obit and guest book at: www.grayfuneral.com

And, Irwin Glen Johnson, 69, of Lawton. Irwin passed on April 29 in Lawton and a private family service was held May 8. He attended Lawton schools and graduated LHS although I cannot find him on any class info I have. He is survived by a daughter; numerous grandchildren.

Extended obit and guest book at: www.grayfuneral.com

I just received word that Dallas L. Ramsey, 77, passed on Jan. 31, 2010, after a lengthy illness. Dallas moved to Lawton at age 6, as his family owned and operated the Ramsey Hotel in downtown Lawton. Dallas lettered in track and pole vault at LHS, graduating in 1951. He attended Cameron, OU, graduated SW OKlahoma College of Pharmacy. Married Gale (Miller) in June 1952 (Gale is class '52). They moved to Floydada, Tx in 1963 where they owned and operated the Ramsey Pharmacy.He was a member of First Baptist Church Floydada, Floydada Lions Club, Floydada Chamber of Commerce and served as president on the Caprock Hospital Board of Directors. He was also a member of the Texas and Oklahoma Pharmaceutical Associations. Gale will continue to live in Floydada. This information was sent to me by Gales brother, David Miller.

And, our '59 classmate Stephanie (Lester) Beatty is gravely ill and in the hospital in NYC where she lives. She has been fighting breast cancer several years now and it has spread. The prognosis is not good. Her husband Ed also has some serious medical problems, but her two daughters are with her. I know she would appreciate your prayers and if you would care to send a note or card, I am sure her daughters will get it to her. Stephanie Beatty, 145 E. 16th St., NYC, NY 10003.

Had mentioned some weeks back that Perry Martin, '57, was ill. He has liver cancer & is having difficulty tolerating the chemo treatments. He lives in Lufkin, TX and is being treated there. I know all these would appreciate your remembrance of them in prayers.

From the eMail bag:

"Ron Sheffield is absolutely correct. Get thee to the nearest IMAX theatre. NASA's 3-D IMAX presentation of the Hubble telescope story is a transformational experience that will leave you breathless more than once. Hyperbole fails me in this rare instance. "Powerful, beautiful and moving" will have to do for now. Grandson and I screened it at the California Science Center three weeks ago and can't get over the seamless blend of science and visual awe that distinguish this film from previous documentary subjects. In one memorable sequence, the theatre sound system literally shook us right down to our boots. (Actually running shoes)"

Charles Darling, '64

"Hello Georgia Girl, Speaking of reunions, the Class of 1956 is planning ours on the weekend of June 9,10,11,12, 2011. Just one short year away, so everyone can start planning. It will be back at the Best Western [Lawton] again. Yvonne [Anderson] Coombs has the ball rolling so everyone can get busy now and start finding all classmates to make this a successful 55 YEAR REUNION!! Who wouldn't want to say they did that. Just think, if you were a senior in 1956 and someone had their 55 year reunion they would have graduated in 1901 and born in 1883, makes one feel old doesn't it? But also makes you feel fortunate and lucky to be alive. As Mr. Tommy Wells always says, It is a great life!!! "

Doyce Grayson

Also....eMails from: Mike Wyant; Susan (Hankins) Ellington; Ken and Gloria (Owsley) Wright; Sue Anna (Lewis) O'Hara; Sherry Wiley; Sue Williams (she loves 'Hubble' too); Frankie Kinderman; Paul Soper.

Durvis "Red" Hulen, '54, gave my Bill a great picture of a 'ball team'. See if you recognize any of them before peeking at the names. Ron Jones, '55 - who is in the picture - says its the Whittier Cardinals at Whitter School. About 1947- 48 - 49?Some fifth graders and some sixth graders. Ron says Myron 'Pete' Burton transferred from Washington School and was great addition to the team, but not in this picture. Chad Bledsoe - also in the picture - says it's the Whittier Browns, taken at Taft School field in 1948 or 1949. So.......we're close here on who and where! All future LHS'ers!

Tornadoes danced and landed all over Oklahoma Tuesday evening. Sadly, five persons were killed - three of those in Tecumseh. Wide-spread destruction of personal property/businesses. Fortunately, it went well east of Lawton. If you are in Oklahoma you know, if not, all over national news. Mick Cornett, Mayor of OKC, was on FOX News earlier today.The tornado was within 2 miles of '59 classmates Kay and Jerry Otis and I am sure other LHS'ers may have had close encounters with the storm.

Regards to all.........Georgia

Team picture - above.

First row, l-r: Coach Frances McFarland (Donnie and Alan's dad), Ronnie Jones, Wayne (Don?) Teague, Jim Ballard, Jim Cargill.

Second row, l-r: Wayne Dell Martin, Durvis Hulen, Carol Dugalosh, Billy ?, Donnie McFarland, Chad Bledsoe.

Third row, l-r; Leon Broyles, Glen Barnes, Curtis Redeker, Don Williams, Bill Stratton, Jerry Long

......LHS News......
Originally sent May 5

Howard L. Cole, 78, of Norman passed on April 30. He grew up in Lawton and attended LHS. He married Marie Gonzales in 1953 and they were married until she passed in 2009. He owned and operated Cole's Cleaners for over 50 years here in Lawton. He is survived by a son and a daughter.Services will be 10:00am Saturday May 8, at Becker Funeral Home Memorial Chapel, burial at Highland Cemetery.
Extended obit and guest book at: www.beckerfuneral.com

Otto Martinez sent news of loss of another classmate.....
Claus Rell "RL" Mahistedt passed April 26 in Weatherford,OK. RL was LHS class 1949. Services were April 28 in Weatherford.

I received additional information on Geraldyn Smith from her sister Barbara (Smith) Richards, class '55:
"Geraldyn Smith is my sister and she was the class of '49. She graduated from OBU 1954and went to physical therapy at Baylor Hospital - Dallas. She had her own therapy office in Corpus Christie, TX. She retired and moved to Prescott, Arizona. She has now been diagnosed with cancer originating in the uterus and spread to both lungs so her days ahead will be short..."

"Have been on a whirlwind of Cancer Treatments in the Hospital at BAMC since Dec and now have a new right eye and major stop for hemorrhaging of right lung, and finally got control with Radiation Treatment, and now it appears we have wiped out a tumor in the right lung. Will know for sure in early June.
Feeling good now and back home on my feet. Has been quite a ride. Love the fishing stories and my mouthwatering to taste fresh crappie.
Best to all and will keep all posted. My prayers are out especially for Dee and the others going through treatments. Not fun at!
Love to all Ralph [Purvis, '52] and Jackie"

Tommye Hobbs, '52, emails.......
"Ray's post chemo/radiation PET scan showed nothing, except a small suspicious spot on his left cheek. He got a personal call from his dermatologist/Mohs surgeon Tuesday. She wanted to share good news with him for a change. The biopsy results showed THE SUSPECTED SPOT WAS NOT CANCER!!!! As of now, Ray is clear of cancer and will only need the routine oncology follow-ups. Thanks to everyone for their concern, cards, gifts, prayers. We are looking forward to our trip to Lawton for the 49, 50, 51,52 reunion. See you in September.

Jo (Van Stone) Riley, '51, had hip replaced April 29 in OKC. She is currently in re-hab and doing well.

I know we have a lot of classmates with serious problems. I report what I receive so if you want to contact friends that maybe you have not seen in a while or send words of encouragement.....you may do so!
And, I hope we will all remember these classmates and others with health problems or losses in prayers.

More from the eMail bag:

Class 1959......Another correction for '59 Memory Books and roster. Email for Judy (House) Hargrove should be: jhmagoo0190@aol.com Watch those O's and zeros. Think that's where 'we' messed up.

Received this from Ron Sheffield, '58......."Just a quick note. I did the opening speech at the San Jose Technology Museum in San Jose, CA for the Hubble IMAX movie. It is an absolutely fantastic movie with some science up front and then astronauts working on the Hubble Servicing Mission 4 that we completed in May 2010. It is 45 minutes long. If you can go see it in 3D and the astronauts will be right in your laps. I don't want all your dirty minded "young" ladies to get any ideas.
The normal IMAX movie is very good and exciting, but 3D just makes it great. I talked to over 250 people today and everyone liked it. I don't know where the closest IMAX theater is but I would strong encourage that everyone see it. PS I don't get a kick back. Darn. Ron"

In case you don't know, Ron was an engineer for the building of the Hubble Telescope! And I know I'M looking forward to the 3-D effects!!! Read more about Ron and his interesting job, along with pictures, starting in August 2008 LHS News (archived at the blog): http://www.thewolvernet.blogspot.com/

Ron, no offence here, but every time I hear 'Hubble'...I think....Robert 'Hubble' Redford in 'The Way We Were'....sigh! Then.... I think telescope!

Hope I'm not speaking out of turn here but heard wedding bells ringing for '59 classmate Rita A. (Ray) and James Monsel, Jr. Congrats and best wishes guys!

Emails from Patsy (Conner), '56. Patsy in still in Little Rock but has a new address. If keeper of '56 info needs it, get hold of me.

Also Ron Jones, '55, who recently spoke at length with Lawton Constitution columnist Herb Jacobs about the great trips down memory lane with the articles about 1950's sports program at LHS. Ron was one of the LHS athletic *stars* back in the day. Herb is still writing, currently about '60's teams at Cameron that definitely featured some LHS grads! Herbs' column..."Where Are They Now?" appears in Sunday paper.

Remember....."If you can't be an athlete, be an athletic supporter".... Grease, the movie!

My Bill and several others have a fishing trip planned to the Louisiana gulf next month. In light of current oil accident, trip is treading water! Bill and other fishermen have been closely watching the developments in the gulf area. I know not of interest to all, but this site is quite interesting as to what is going on, effects, what happened, and constant up-date on the situation. If you have curiosity, check: http://www.nola.com/news/gulf-oil-spill/index.ssf/2010/05/gulf_of_mexico_oil_spill_anima.html

I will be away from my computer for a few days, so try not to do anything news worthy! Regards from the home town and wishing all moms a very Happy Day! .........Georgia

......LHS News......

Originally sent April 30

I am so sad to report the passing of Adele (Skrdle) Beck, 70, of Lawton. Adele passed on Wednesday morn, April 28. Adele is '57 grad of LHS and is sister of Joe Skrdle, class '52. She is survived by her husband Fred; a daughter Brenda; a son Barry.Services will be 2:00pm, Saturday May 1, First Baptist church, with burial at Highland Cemetery.Extended obit and guest book: http://www.beckerfuneral.com/sitemaker/sites/becker0/obit.cgi?user=199615Beck

Adele was a very nice person, I visited with her just a few short months ago. Always energetic and vivacious!

This note from her long time and very close friend Barbara (Ramey) Wiseman....."My friend, Adele (Skrdle) Beck, passed away early this morning during open heart surgery. I was there yesterday before her surgery and did get to see and talk with her and visit with the family. We were very close, and I am really going to miss my friend of almost 60 years."

I know our thoughts and prayers are with this family and friends at this difficult time.

Pat (Banks) White, '52, received an email she asked me to pass along.... "Today I had news I wish to pass on to you about a dear friend and alumni.Geraldine (Geri) Smith, LHS grad of '50 I think,and OBU -- has had surgery and a spot has been found on one lung. Her spirits are low at this point. Please ask others to pray for loving care and the Dr's. She lives in Prescott, AZ formerly of Corpus Christi. Jean Mitzner"

On a lighter note.......I have to 'brag' a little about another niece who can also sing like a bird.....Emily Gill, 8, youngest daughter of my youngest brother Mike, can really nail a tune. She has been singing at all kinds of events for some time now. She is also very active in Lawton Little Theater and currently in rehearsal for 'Cinderella.' Previously she has appeared in 'School House Rock' and 'Pirates of Penzance'.

She just won 1st Place - Primary Music Theatrical Solo at the Oklahoma Federation of Music Clubs - State Honors Competition in Bethany this past Saturday, April 24. The crowd gave her a standing 'O'. Go little 'Em'. Hope I can get good seats when shes on Broadway!!!! (Pix of Emily and her dad - my bro - above).

Class 1959......make changes on your Memory Books and class roster......NEW email for Joan (Lee) Houghton. NEW is.....jerjo@att.net

Check out dates for upcoming reunions right HERE on the blog!

All for now...........Georgia