......LHS News......
Originally sent January 30

Its been a while for the news (don't ask), so some of this few weeks old, but thought LHS'ers would still want to know. Also have new mail program I am not used to...sigh!

Remembering......
Marilyn Morris writes....."I remember standing in line with my mother to buy my schoolbooks, [at Ratcliffes] I think for the 3rd grade, the first time my dad was stationed at Fort Sill. That must have been 1948. I'm amazed that it was there for so long."

Mary (Harris) Thompson writes...."Always enjoyed going into Ratcliffes, thought all that paper and books smelled good. As I recall that's where we bought our school books."

"Very sad closings of two Lawton businesses. I remember we bought all our school books at Ratcliffes when I moved to Lawton in 1960 and started school at Tomlinson Jr. High School."
Nancy Jane Long, '65

"I got a job helping out during a summer between high school terms with preparations for the school-book rush at Ratcliffe's. They needed more help, so my mother, Sylvia Matthew, went to work there as well. She stayed on for thirty years, retiring as assistant manager. When we buried her on her 88th birthday in the family plot in Walters Cemetery, Gale and Martha Sadler came to say good-bye. Ratcliffe's -- part of the old Lawton."
Murdoch Matthew

Herb Jacobs - 'Where Are They Now' - Sunday Constitution, December 22, page 4-C: great story on the one and only John Tyree. Tyree was a character in his own right, but his career playing football for LHS and then continuing his education, illness, and coaching took him to many places. OSU, SW State, Cameron, Pomona, CA, Texas. It's a good story. John is LHS class 1957.

Herbs Sunday column of December 29, page 7-C is great read about 1954 LHS grad Ron Ramming. Ron was a great tennis player in school [he won 70 trophies during his Junior and Senior years at LHS], also playing during his time in the army. Ron came back to Lawton in the '60's and these days he plays golf. Another good story.

Richard 'Dick' Neptune is featured on the front page of the Monday Constitution, December 23. The article chronicles his profession as a photographer, entering the Lawton Public Schools as an instructor, eventually becoming Superintendent of LPS.
Richard is LHS class 1952. All good reads. Try getting these articles at www.swoknews.com

Wedding bells rang over the holidays for '57 LHS'er Ron Hartline and bride Leitha Lewis. Congrats guys!

And major congrats to good friends Jim Powers, '55, and his bride LuAnn (Cobb) who celebrated their 54th anniversary on December 28. And, they just welcomed their second great-grandchild on January 7. Baby girl!

Great to visit with Mike Lehew.......up from Texas for a holiday visit. Mike is LHS class '68.
Also a New Years day land-line from good friend Charles Darling. A surprise and most enjoyable visit! Charles and Jackie are doing well and smelling the roses.....[literally] as they live just around the corner from the start of the Rose Bowl Parade out Pasadena way!

'59 classmate Johnna (Gordon) Parks and hubby Wayne are just home from a Christmas cruise around the Mexican Rivera and Central America. It was a family affair with kids, grand-kids. Fun time had by all.

January 1, Lawton Constitution, front page, great picture of '59 classmate Joan (Lee) Houghton and hubby Jerry celebrating the arrival of the New Year. Too bad the paper messed up their name. But, 'we' knew who it was!!!

Jerry Boucher suggested looking at 'Lawton Then and Now' on face book to get lot of pictures of old Lawton and new Lawton.

Belated Happy (December) Birthday wishes to: Mike Thompson; Houston Gill - my great-niece (LHS Class 2016)!

Happy (January) Birthday wishes to: Beverly (Gaston) Shelton; Diz Martinez; Pat (Anderson) Lehew.

NOTE: I don't know if any of you watch American Restorations (Ricks Restorations - Las Vegas) on the History channel but we love old machines and it's fun to see the old 'stuff' people bring in and the great job Rick does on restoring them. On a recently aired episode, a fellow brought in something that stirred my memory - one of those old foot/shoe x-ray machines like the one that Dutchers Shoe Store had when they were over on D street. Supposed to try on new shoe, stick foot under there, and it 'lit-up' to show feet in shoes. Billed as 'accurate fit'.
I remember it well, sitting against the west wall. We [Gill] kids had been admonished by dad to not under any circumstances stick our feet under there as it couldn't be a good thing! Well, as it turned out, dad was right. It was x-ray and some years before we knew the damage that could be done. I never heard of anyone suffering any ill effects from the machine and I can now admit.... I did manage to stick my feet in a time or so and sneak a few quick glances.
Rick did great job on the machine, removed the x-ray element & fixed it with harmless x-ray photo of someones feet!? Enjoyed seeing the old machine.

I appreciate 'greetings' from LHS'ers: Charles Gilbert, '54; Bob Keiningham; Judy Lee Jenkins; Willie Guest; Susan (Hankins) Ellington; Jack Rhodes; Sherry (Asbery) Wiley; Ed Hesler, Jr.; Sharon (Godfrey) McLawhorn; Ron and Marilyn Poole; Wayne and Judy Kniffin; Phil Wilder; John Smith; Frank Gribble, lll; Karelin (Cole) Seitz; Don Wooley; Lou & Barbara Green.

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My dear and long time friend Shirley (Brittain) Russell, '58, is fighting a re-occurrence of cancer. She is at home with hospice. I know they would appreciate your prayers.

Another dear friend, Sue (Chalk) Briggs, '64, will have possibly surgery first part of February. Sue has been fighting cancer some years. She would also appreciate your prayers.

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Jacquline 'Jackye' Rose (Robinson) Cox, 79, of Lawton passed on January 24 after a several year battle with Alzheimers. Jackye was LHS class 1952. Services were on January 28. Jackye was married to Weldon Cox who passed in 1998. She is survived by two daughters and their families; a sister Martha.
Obit and guest book at: www.grayfuneral.com

Note: Jackye was a great gal. She & my Bill went to grade school together and he says she was a real 'hoot'. Jackye & I were provisionals together in the Lawton Junior Service League. She was fun!! Sorry to lose her.

Cherry L. (Ledgerwood) Porter, 88, of Lawton passed on January 1. She was a grad of LHS - 42 or 43? Survivors include 2 daughters, numerous grand and great-grand children, extended family. Cherry was married to Tom Porter who with his brothers was Porter Brothers builders here in Lawton area. He preceded her in death. Services were January 4.
Obit and guest book at: www.beckerfuneral.com

Lester Ray Suttle, 86, of Lawton, passed on December 27. Lester was LHS class 1945. Lester was a nice person and a familiar face at the Lawton post office for many, many, years. He is survived by wife Esther (Scherler); a daughter, a son, numerous grandchildren and extended family. A memorial service was held on January 4.
Obit and guest book at: www.grayfuneral.com

**Beverly (Beachamp) Shoffner, 75, Colleyville, TX, passed at her home on December 17 after a short bout with cancer (brain tumor). Beverly was LHS class 1956. She is survived by husband Dutch Shoffner; two sons Alan and Andy and their families; numerous grandchildren; a brother Barry Beachamp, Lawton. Services were December 22 in Grapevine, TX.
Obit and guest book at www.jefoust.com J.E. Foust Funeral Home - Grapevine, TX.

Sadly, Beverlys husband Lt. Gen (rtrd) Wilson A. 'Dutch' Shoffner, 75, Colleyville, TX, passed on January 3. He had been ill for some time. Dutch was from Ryan, OK, attended Cameron and OSU. His service was January 8 in Grapevine with burial to be in Arlington National Cemetery.
Obit and guest book at: www.jefoust.com

**This from a classmate: "It’s a terrible and very sudden loss. Beverly was on the Tatler staff, worked for the Lawton Constitution, graduated from Cameron and OU. She was undoubtedly the kindest person to any and all and will be incredibly missed."
Mary (Simpson) Milby

Janis Ann (Reese) Rich, 66, of Lawton, passed on December 18. Janis was LHS class 1965. She is survived by 3 sons and their families; a daughter and her family; a twin brother Don; numerous grandchildren and extended family. A memorial service was held December 28.
Obit and guest book at: www.OrrGrayGishfuneralhome.com> or www.Tiptonfuneralhome.com

Our sympathies and prayers are with these who have lost loved ones and friends.

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The New Year is off and running! I hope I can keep up with it! Regards to all............ Georgia

LHS News
Originally sent December 19

Vreda (Decker) Schieman emails that she & hubby Gordon are still in Salida, CO and if there are any 1951 grads around, they would love to meet them.

The University of Oklahoma is establishing an endowment chair in honor of Lawton native Paul Massad. A million dollar grant from the Webster Family of CA will make possible the Paul D. Massad Chair in Strategic Communication in the Gaylord College of Journalism. Paul has a nearly 60 year association with OU. Paul is LHS class 1955.
Congratulations Paul!

It's sad that Lawton has lost two of its old landmark businesses recently. Surplus City/Surplus Salvage - across from Lawton Airport on SW 11th street - closed its doors on Saturday November 30 after more than 5 decades.
Kenneth 'Dozie' Davis got into retail early as manager of the post exchange (1928 - 1942). Returning
to Lawton in 1945 after a stint in the US Navy, Dozie went into business for himself. He was active in the business until he passed in 1994.
His son Kenneth 'Jay' Davis returned to Lawton from NM in 1990 and has run the business since with his daughter Jennifer taking over the past 5 years. Jay Davis is a good friend and LHS class 1955.
Good article Lawton Constitution, Sunday November 24, E - 1.

And, Ratcliffes/Sadlers Book Store will close soon. Sadler began an association with Ratcliffes back in 1940 when Gale Sadler went to work for Lee Ratcliffe. They became partners on 1947. The Sadlers became sole owners in 1988.
I bought many a Nancy Drew mystery novel at Ratcliffes when they were on 'D' street (west of the Dome).

The Lawton Heritage Association is offering its 2013 Christmas ornament. This years ornament features Roosevelt/Ron Stephens Stadium located at 1400 NW Dearborn. Back in the day the stadium was the site for all of the LHS football games. The stadium was built by the WPA (Work Progress Administration) in 1935-36. Native rock from the Wichita Mountains was brought in for the structure. LHS games, later Eisenhower and Cameron, played there until mid 1960's. Originally Roosevelt Stadium, the name was later changed to Ron Stephens Stadium in honor of Stephens who had been the Comanche County administrator for the WPA.
Ornaments are very nicely done, in gift type box, only $15. Available at the Museum of the Great Plains (580) 581-3460; Massad's Gifts (580) 357-4500; and the Mattie Beal Home (very limited hours).

Sing Happy (December) Birthday to: Sue (Chalk) Briggs; Janice (Vaughn) Salisbury; Bill Stamps; Sharon (Anderson) Berndt.

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Gene Grogan, 81, passed November 20 at his home in Potomac, Maryland (suburb of DC). Gene had battled Alzheimers for some time. He was husband of Jan (Rice) Grogan who is LHS class 1954. Jan writes that they "will have a celebration of his life at St. Alban’s Episcopal Church in Washington, DC on December 7th, the anniversary of our wedding 56 years ago."

Roberta (Wheeler) Hadley, 72, of Lawton, passed on November 29 from diabetes and a stroke back in October. Roberta was LHS Class 1959. She is survived by her husband of 56 years Craig Hadley, '60; a son; 2 daughters; 11 grandchildren; 2 brothers; 2 sisters. Services were December 4.
Obit and guest book at:

Burt Chesley Montague MD, 79, of Lawton, passed at his home on December 2 after lengthy battle with cancer. 'Ches' was LHS Class 1952. He had a long and distinguished career in the medical field. He is survived by his wife Jeannie (Lee) Strait Montague; numerous children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. A Memorial service was held December 9 in Lawton.
Obit and guest book at:

Frederick W. 'Fred' Leippe, 81, of Lawton passed on December 6. Fred attended Washington and McKinley grade schools and was LHS class 1952.
He is survived by his wife Loraine Grace (Wittig); 2 daughters and their families; 4 grandchildren; extended family including 2 brothers and 1 sister. A Memorial service was held December 14.
Obit and guest book at:

Dorothy B. (Brown) Ramsey, 88, of Lawton, passed on December 11. She was LHS class 1943. She was married to Raymond D. "Ray" Ramsey. He preceded her in death iin 1992. She is survived by large extended family. Services were December 16.
Obit and guest book at:

Robert Wayne "Bobby" Botts, 58, of Lawton, passed on December 10 after short battle with cancer. Robert was LHS class 1974. Robert or 'Bobbert' as we called him, was a friend. We will miss him as well as others who have left us.
Obit and guest book at:

Our sympathies and prayers are with those who have lost loved ones.

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This will be the last newsletter of this year so I will wish all of you a very Merry Christmas and a New Year -2014 - full of family, good health, and good friends.

"And to all a good night".......Georgia

......LHS News......
Originally sent November 19


Bob Keiningham wites......"Sorry to hear about my buddy Jack Shanklin ... he tried to teach me how to dress all the way through High School! I turned 78 in April, but reading about old friends being that old still provides a little shock and awe!"

Ron Poole & wife Marilyn are now at home in Austin, TX. I have his contact info for those who may need it. He also wants to know if other '55 grads in the Austin area??

Myrna Kay (Langley) Daley, '56, writes...."After 25 years with a local accounting firm I finally retired. I spent the month of September in China. Had not planned to stay quite so long, but a typhoon arrived while I was in Hong Kong and the airport closed so my departure was delayed for 5 days. The best part of any trip is getting home."

Janette (Hanes), '54, has just helped Peggy (Elledge) Long, '54, move the last of her (Peggys) belongings to Santa Fe. Peggy has been in process of moving for some time, but now has it done!!

And with Peggy settled, Janette (Hanes) headed back to Lawton to begin her own move back to the home town. So, we lose one, but gain one. Welcome home Janette.

Also, Susan (Hankins) Ellington will be leaving her long time residence in Las Cruces, NM. She will be moving to Santa Fe in next few months. She describes her new SF home as "territorial style with a small front courtyard." Picture looked great! Getting to be a nice 'community' of former Lawtonians in SF. Some full time, some part-timers.

Gerda (Keas) Campbell, '60, won the State title & traveling trophy in a 36 Hole Net golf tournament played at Lake Hefner-North Golf Course in Oklahoma City. This tournament was for any woman 50 & over in the state of Oklahoma. The trophy has been 'traveling' since 1959. Congrats Gerda! Photo.

David Whitwell did a 30 minute interview with Moscow (yes, Russia) via Skype back in October. Oct. 14 is the 200th anniversary of the Battle of Leipzig, in which the Russians played a big part. It was the biggest political event of the 19th century, as it ended Napoleon's attempt to take over all of Europe. They asked to interview David on the subject of the military bands involved. btw...David has 38 books listed on Amazon (centered on music).
Note: didn't know about the battle of Leipzig, but October 14 is a very special day as was my Moms birthday...she would have been 92.

My Bill and I traveled to BIG D on OU/TX week-end. While the outcome of the game wasn't as we hoped, we did have opportunity to connect with several former Lawtonians/classmates now living in Dallas. Bob Drewry, '52, and wife Karen were doing great as was Ron Jones, '55, who had just returned (literally 2:00am that Friday morn) from a tour of Italy. He came home with a bad case of laryngitis so made it difficult for him to tell us what a great time he had! Also visited with Nancy (Klass), '55, and hubby Bryan Medlock.

Great article in Lawton paper of October 15, page 8-A ....Jerry Strickland, '57, and his collection of vintage cars. Jerry is 'Strickland Racing of Cache'. Great color pictures showing his '66 Corvette Stingray Convertible; a '73 Dodge Dart Swinger; a '57 Chevy Bel Air hardtop. Also a history of Jerrys collecting and restoring the cars. Super cars, good read, and if you are in Cache the cars are nicely displayed on Cache Road in a building next to the Dollar General store.

'59 classmate George Bridges, my Bill, '52, my brother George Gill, '63 and several others spent 8 days in Costa Rico fishing for Tarpon. Big time had by all and since catch and release.....no messy cleaning of fish! Photo.

Also fishing, Mitch Braley, '57, and his son David just made a major haul while at Corpus Christi. Photo.

Great front page article about classmate Edward Charles Ellenbrook, '56, and his love of the Wichita Mountains. Charles has written numerous articles, trail guides, and maps of the Wichita Mtns and area. He writes a monthly column for the Lawton paper as well. Lawton Constitution, November 18.

Belated Happy (October) Birthdays: Hankins (Ellington) and Mary (Harris) Thompson, both '56ers; Earl Barton. Happy (November) Birthdays: Dee (Vanderpool) Glass, '52; George Gill, '63; Barbara (Ferguson) Perry, '50; Judy (Matthews) Johnson, '58.

Don Merrick, '53, and bride Saundra (Buzbee), '60, just celebrated their Golden 50th (Oct). They live in Lawton, but an army career saw many moves for the family over the years. FYI - Saundra is the artist who created the wonderful 'Old Lawton' watercolor prints featuring the old landmarks of Lawton yesteryear. Major Congrats!

Am attaching several photos to this email of above mentioned classmates.

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Burt Chesley Montague, '52, of Lawton, is dealing with renal cancer and is currently at home with hospice. Don Sherry, '52, Lawton, is ill and currently at home with hospice.

Edith (Lawrence) Caha, '52, had a freak accident resulting in both her legs being broken. She is currently at Cedar Crest Manor here in Lawton.

Darlene Dean, wife of Eugene Dean, '52, is quite ill and with hospice.
Numerous other classmates are experiencing health issues and your prayers would be appreciated.

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Tommye (Boudreaux) Hobbs will host a 'Celebration of Life' for hubby Ray Hobbs and will welcome friends at her new Lawton home. The celebration will be on Saturday November 30 at 4105 NW Meadowbrook, 2:00pm ~ 5:00pm. Tommye says there will be no program or service, just an opportunity for friends and family to get together, reminisce, and celebrate Ray's life. Light lunch, lots of memorabilia, pictures, DVD. Ray passed August 20 in Lawton.


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Jim Warkentin, 76, passed November 8 in Florida after a short battle with cancer. He was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia this past August. Jim was LHS class 1955. He is survived by wife Carmen; a daughter Keri Lynn & family; a son Ted & family; sister Judy (Warkentin) Bryan; a brother Jack Warkentin. There was no service. Obit in Lawton paper November 18. www .swoknews.com

Shirlene Marie (Boyd) Pinchback, 74, of Lawton, passed on November 5. Shirlene is LHS class 1957. She is survived by husband Larry; three sons and their families; extended family. Service was Nov. 8 in Lawton. Obit and guest book at: www.beckerfuneral.com

Julie (Kent) Mays, 69, of Lawton, passed on November 1. Julie was LHS class 1962. She is survived by a daughter Clea and family including a granddaughter; a cousin Joan Williams& husband Clancey; extended family. Julie was a lovely person, she will be missed by many.
Obit and guest book at: www .grayfuneral.com

Theadore F. "Teddy" Wise, 70, of Lawton, passed on October 19. A memorial service was held October 24. Teddy was LHS class 1961. Teddy was an 'army brat' and later had a distinguished career of his own in the military and also as a freelance photographer.
Extended obit and guest book at: www .beckerfuneral.com

David L. Davis passed at his home in Dallas, TX. His daughter Michelle sent that he had died peacefully in his sleep. She did not send exact date or if any service, but his passing has been very recent (October). Believe David was class 1952 or may have left before graduation? He was married to Claudette (Palmer) - also class of 1952 - and she passed several years ago.

Charlene (Lewis) Wigington, 93, Lawton, passed on November 7. She is mom of classmates Dan Wigington, Ron Wigington, and Sylvia (Wigington) Crockett. Services were November 12 in Lawton.
Obit and guest book at: www .grayfuneral.com

Our sympathies and prayers are always with those who have lost loved ones.

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Lawton High once again 'Home of Champions' as [under coach Randy Breeze] they finished the season 10-0, sewing up the District football title and finishing off the Wolverines 11th unbeaten regular season in school history. Go Wolverines!

Halloween was scary, now we press on to turkey and dressing, then in no time.....Santa Claus! Time flies! Regards to all.......Georgia

......LHS News......
Originally sent October 10

I have a '59 classmate - PATSY (Sherratt) Theobald - and for some strange reason I insist on calling her Nancy. I did so (again) in last news & I apologize & will see if I can get my brain in gear!

From the eMail bag:
Frankie (Ingraham) Kinderman sends....."a 'hello' to longtime friend and neighbor of the past, Kenneth Easton. I hope to get home before long and would love to see some of those Lawton schools kids."

Ron Poole, class '55, and wife Marilyn send word that they are moving from the Seattle area to Austin Texas on Sept 30th. Their email will remain same.

Tom Burroughs, '56, writes....."I had the opportunity to talk with Pat Adair and see the pix from Canada. I had been to all the places she showed me but was nice to see them again. It has been several months since my wife (Phyllis) passed away and I'm still adjusting. I also talked with Charlotte McGill today in California and she is doing well and doing lots of traveling. Both these gals were a big part of my growing up years and it is always nice to touch base."
btw.....Tom would like to visit with any classmates via email or snail mail.

Laci Franks, 18 year old granddaughter of classmate Shirley (Edgmon) Franks, '55, has enlisted in the US Navy & is headed to Great Lakes Basic training in November! Anchors Away Laci!

Bruce Knowles up Alaska way writes....."Our summer is coming to an end, we had frost last week [end of Aug] and leaves are turning colors. I thought I would send you some flowers our friend grew. They are Delphiniums; that what you get with 24 hours of sunlight."

Sept. 2013..... Jeane Virginia (Stockton) O’Brien, class of 1961 retired from USAA, San Antonio, after 19 years, 7 months and 19 days. LHS classmates at the retirement party: Neta (Sparkman) Callihan, ’65; Dee (Dever) Brame (and spouse Charlie), ’65; and George Glasby, '57 (and spouse Carol), ’59. Jeane and hubby of 47 years, Jim, are selling their home in Canyon Lake TX and moving to Florida, Myakka City area near Tampa. All the best...enjoy!

Had nice visit with Janette (Hanes), '54, she has found a house and is in process of moving 'home' to Lawton. Welcome!!

I attended the Friday night event for the recent class 1958 reunion. Great crowd, lot of '58ers and all seemed to be having a good time. Numerous from 'other years' as well. There should be pictures posted on Facebook under Lawton High class 1958 or some similar tag.

And, Ed Harp has photo album of pictures at joint reunion held back on August 2-3. Email Ed and he will tell you how to access. He is still hoping to get some pictures from the Friday night event at Ramon Johns house. edharp@swbell.net

Congratulations to Senior Chance Moody who was crowned LHS Homecoming Queen on Thursday evening (Oct. 3).

Sing belated Happy (September) Birthday to Bill Scott, '59; Ron Jones, '55.

Also a Happy 60th Anniversary (Sept) to Bill and Joyce (Allison) Gentry. Bill is class '52, Joyce is class '53. Major congrats guys! btw...the happy couple was pictured in the Oklahoman under Anniversaries - Sept. 21.

And...hats 'n horns for Happy (October) Birthdays: Suzanne (Jones) Crawford; Marilyn (Lewis) Smith; Tom Dillon; Wayne Parks; Jim Powers; Princess (Gill) Turner.

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Mike Wyant, '57, is continuing to improve [slowly] after a hospital stay following a couple of very bad falls causing damage to his low back plus malfunction and ultimate replacement of his defibrillator. Mike, I know all join me in wishing you a good recovery.

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Jack Cherry Shanklin, 79, of Houston, TX, passed on September 30 after a battle with cancer. Jack was LHS class 1952. Jack was one of 7 children and is survived by current wife Debbie; 2 sons and their families; 3 daughters and their families; 8 grandchildren, extended family. He is also survived by brother Bob Shanklin of Lawton; sister Jane Jones of Lawton; brother Jerry Shanklin of Spring, TX. A memorial service was held in Houston on October 3.

Farris Lindsey, 72, of Walters, passed on September 27. Services were September 30. Farris was LHS class 1959. Farris is survived by wife Mary (Langford); 3 sons; 2 brothers and extended family. Extended obit and guest book at: www .hart-wyattfuneralhome.com

Lt. Col. Don Van Dyke, DVM, 80, of Ft. Worth, TX passed on September 9. Don was LHS class 1951. Graveside services with full military honors were held September 11 in Comanche. Don is survived by a brother Jack Van Dyke and extended family.
Online guest book at: www.comanchefhpldi.net

Ernest "Louis" Boyce, 81, of Edmond, passed on August 31 after a long battle with Parkinsons. Louis was LHS class 1950. He was very involved with the FFA and his four man team won 3 State wide livestock show judgings. He is survived by wife Betty (Wood), '55; three grown children and their families; extended family. Betty has moved to a Senior Living Village of 62 and older in Edmond. Extended obit and guest book at: www. matthewsfuneralhome.com

Genevieve "Gents" Stamps Latham, 94, of Lawton passed on October 2. There will be a grave side service at 1:00pm, Tuesday October 15, at Highland Cemetery in Lawton. Gents is the mother of LHS classmates Bill Stamps, Jr; Sue (Stamps) Johnson; 5 grandchildren and large extended family.
Obit and guest book at: www .beckerfuneral.com

Elna C. "Peggy" (Davie) Raley, 97, of Norman passed on October 3. Services were October 8 in Lawton. Peggy is mother of LHS classmates Tom Raley; Patricia (Raley) Welch; grand and great grandchildren and extended family.
Obit and guest book at: www .grayfuneral.com

Our sympathies and prayers are with those who have lost loved ones.

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

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

Originally sent September 6

I doubt few know - or care - BUT...the Lava Lamp is 50 years old!  Yes!  The design was created by a British inventor and former WW11 pilot Edward Craven-Walker. It was first marketed as an "exotic conversation piece" by a British company back in 1963. The lamp came to be a real icon or 'symbol' of the '60's. It has been much copied since, but original - and working- ones can still be found occasionally in antique and junk shops.
And for you with inquiring minds....the lamps are based on two liquids of slightly different density which will not mix.  The heavier liquid sinks to the bottom, but when heated by the lamp light its density decreases and it floats to the top!  Viola!~

From the eMail bag:

Someone is looking for friend Leonard Gregory.  He was married at one time to '59 classmate Jolene Narmore.  They divorced and do not know where-abouts of either.  If you have info, please share with me.  Thanks!

"I am sorry to hear of the end of The Tattler.  Miss Vanita Lee and writing for The Tattler are two of the very few things in my LHS experience that significantly changed my life for the better."
John Waller

Photo of Lewis Chandler in Gredos, Spain participating in 'Vaughan Town'. http://volunteers.grupovaughan.com/ He is now back in US of A and taking off again for points in CO, ending with a few days in Santa Fe before returning to OK. Photo above.

Pat (Adair) Vowell, '57, just back from trip to visit family in Canada took some spectacular pictures. 

Murdoch Matthew also celebrated an August Birthday.......82 years young!!!! Many happy returns!

Class 1958 reunion coming up fast!  September 20-21.  For details or info contact Ken Easton at:
 

Appreciate emails from:  Nancy (Sherratt) Theobald; Sameera (Hamra) Murad; Peggy (Stockton) Cravens; Bill Buntyn; Fran (Jacks) Wehner; Ron Hagler;  Sonja (Reynolds) Homan.

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Dolores (Warner) Mueller, '52,  writes that both her sons have the disease hemophilia that also affected Dolores brother David Warner, '56, and eventually caused his passing.  Dolores youngest son David, 47,  is preparing for a liver transplant as soon as possible.  They would appreciate your prayers.

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Ann (Taff) Wassel, 75, Dallas, TX, passed August 12.  Ann was LHS class 1956. She is survived by husband John William Wassel (he attended LHS as Bill Woods and was class '55); a son and 4 grandchildren and extended family. 
There will be a Memorial service at 12:00 noon, Saturday September 7, St. John's Episcopal Church, 848 Harter Road, Dallas.  

Mary Kathleen 'Kathy' (Fields) Phillips, 62, Chattanooga, OK, passed on September 4. She attended Wilson grade school and was LHS class 1969. She is survived by husband Ron; 2 sons; extended family. The family will greet friends from 2:00pm ~ 4:00pm Sunday September 8 at Becker Funeral Home. 
Services will be 10:00am, Monday Sept. 9, Calvary Baptist church in Lawton.
Extended obit and guest book at:  www.beckerfuneral.com

Pauline (Harrold) Young, 94, Lawton, passed on September 1 after a long illness.  Pauline attended Emerson grade school and was LHS class 1937.  She is survived by a daughter Phyllis Ann of the home and large extended family. She will be buried at Arlington National Cemetery with her husband LTC (ret) John C. Young.
Extended obit and guest book at:  www.beckerfuneral.com

Patricia 'Patsy' Joy (Metcalf) Phelps, 69, of Lawton, passed on August 31. Patsy was LHS class 1962.  She is survived by  her husband of fifty years Ray; a daughter Sally; extended family.  Graveside services were held September 4.
Extended obit and guest book at:  www.whineryhuddleston.com

Our thoughts and prayers are with those who have lost loved ones as well as with those undergoing treatments and surgeries.

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Hope to see some of you at the '58 reunion!  Regards.....Georgia 

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

Originally sent August 28

"Surfin USA" by the Beach Boys was voted most popular summer song of all time on a Google poll!  The VERY popular group formed in about 1961.  Fantastic sound. 

"We'll all be gone for the summer
We're on safari to stay
Tell the teacher we're surfin'
Surfin' U.S.A."

New format...sadly...NEW NAME!  The Lawton High Tattler will cease publishing in paper form this year and will move to an on-line format only!  It was also announced that the on-line newspaper will have a NEW name chosen by the staff! First edition should be available first week of October and in the beginning will probably be a monthly. Not sure where to access as yet!  Change....inevitable, but sad. The Tattler really kept us informed back in the day! 

Norman Cantrell, Lawton, has been elected as President of The Piano Technicians Guild and as such will represent the Guilds US interest in October when he attends the International meeting of such guilds in Hangzou, China.  Cantrell operates a Piano Clinic in Lawton specializing in tuning, repair, and restoration of pianos, organs, and other similar music instruments.  Norman is LHS class 1978. 

From the eMail bag:

Ed Harp would like to have any pictures taken at the Friday night reunion event at Ramon Johns....if any of you have Friday night photos, please share with Ed.  

"I'm nearing the end of my quest to see all the national parks out west (I'm saving California for later).  I bought a jeep and headed west -- all by myself -- to prove I could do it.  I started in the BadLands, then Black Hills, on to Yellowstone, the Grand Tetons, Bryce Canyon, Dead Horse Point, CanyonLands, Red Canyon, Mesa Verde, Zion, Grand Canyon.... and on the way home stopped off in Santa Fe, NM, to have lunch with Rex Givens. He loves it in Santa Fe .... almost convinced me that it is the place to live. I'm enclosing a picture of me at Mt. Rushmore.  This was an absolutely wonderful trip -- a once-in-a-lifetime adventure." 
Beverly (Spradlin) Raley, '59

"Bev [wife] and I are preparing for a hike into the Grand Canyon this fall.  To get in shape, we are hiking (6 miles rt)  Mount Scott in the early AM.  To finish another four miles, we then hike to the Panther Creek arrastra.  If one wishes to find it, take Ellenbrook's article with you and use it as carefully as a map.  The first time we looked, Bev and I lucked out and found it.  Then we failed twice to find it again.  The fourth time we used his GPS location and went right to it.
Even if you don't find it, the whole point is "the chase", and being out in the refuge."
Don Wooley, '64

"Charles Ellenbrook gave a guided tour to an Arrastra (don't know if it was Panther Creek but it may have been) many years ago.  I really enjoyed the tour."
Frankie (Kurtz) Browning

Tempe Brown (Tip Cockrell), '57, now has her childrens book in print! "The Little Dirt People". If you have interest you can visit her website:  tempebrown.com or tempebrown.org. Click on books and cd's.

"We are in Colorado for the summer.  Had to evacuate because of the fires out here.  We spent 12 days in Santa Fe before we could get back in to our RV."
Sandra (Austin) Smith and Glen

'59 classmate Larry Joe Thompson - traveling on the West coast - tangled with a deer and his car lost!  He was stalled in Spokane for a while getting repairs but headed home.

Sending Happy Anniversary wishes to Luther and Barbara (Petty) Green celebrating 57 glorious years together on August 30. Luther is class '57 and Barbara is same year but attended St. Marys.  Luther said they started dating their Junior year and "raised each other". Major congrats guys!!!

And a Happy (Golden) 50th to '59 classmate Peggy (Stockton) Cravens and hubby Jim on August 25!  Great milestone.  Congrats guys!

More August Birthday wishes....Carlana (Fitch) Murray; Fray Palmer.

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Tom Bateman, 70, Lawton, passed on August 25.  Tom was LHS class 1960. He is survived by a son Shaun; friend Chebe Jones.  Tom was preceded in death by his parents and a brother Johnny Bateman, '59. Friends may visit or view at the funeral home [today] Wednesday from 8:00am ~ 9:00pm.  There was no mention of a service.
Extended obit and guest book at: <www.beckerfuneral.com>

Loewen Lee Howard, 72, of Lawton passed on August 10.  Memorial service was August 14.  Loewen was LHS class 1960.  He is survived by a son; 2 daughters; grandchildren; brothers Col. James D and Gary Bob.
Extended obit and guest book at:  <www.grayfuneral.com>

 Evelyn (Hankins) Schneider, 88, of Lawton passed on August 6. Interment was at Sunset Memorial Gardens in Lawton. She attended Lincoln and Hillside Elementary and was LHS class 1941. She is survived by a daughter and large extended family.  She is a cousin somewhat removed (according to Susan) of Susan (Hankins) Ellington and also Frank Hankins. Evelyn was a very pretty lady.
Extended and interesting obit and guest book at:  <www.grayfuneral.com>

Elmer Ray Hobbs, 82, passed on August 20 from injuries (passenger) in an auto crash in Lawton.  Ray was cremated with no service as per his wishes. Ray had also been fighting cancer for several years.
Ray is survived by wife Tommye (Boudreaux) - they just celebrated their 61st anniversary; a daughter Mikel in CA and a son Kelly Ray in NC.

Note:  Ray & Tommye were in Lawton (from CA) for the reunion Aug. 2-3 and announced they were leaving CA for good, purchasing a house and moving home to Lawton. It was a busy few days with the reunion, the purchase of a house, sale of their house in CA, and a great interview with Ray and story by Herb Jacobs for his column:  Sunday August 11, page 3-C.  Ray had a very distinguished career in sports at LHS, receiving award as Lawton Highs Outstanding Athlete in 1952. Great read.
**There will be a celebration of life for Ray at the home in Chowchilla, CA (9020 Hunters Creek) on  Sunday September 22 at 2:00pm; then a celebration of life for Ray at their new Lawton home on Saturday November 30, 2:00pm - 4105 NW Meadowbrook.  Tommye says "there will be no special services....it's a chance for our families and friends to get together and reminisce.  We'd love to have you at either one or both."

Our sympathies and prayers are with those who have lost loved ones.

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Summer winding down......regards to all.....Georgia

......LHS News......
 Originally sent August 6/7

 Some will be receiving the news for first time....this is a good start for you as this is a 'double' batch of the news. Hope you enjoy! Remember, previously sent news and photos are archived at the blog: www.thewolvernet.blogspot.com

 Does anyone know the whereabouts of classmate Jim Sutton? Apparently he has moved. 
And, anyone know where-a-bouts of Cheryl (Draganza) Dayton? Or, Pam Fincher. Pam was 'army brat' and may not have graduated? Friends are looking. Let me know if you have info. Thanks.

 Reunion of classes '52 ~ '54 this past week-end was well attended and fun had by all! Re-cap and pictures SOON!
  btw.....Don Williams, class '53, was in town for the reunion and Herb Jacobs used the opportunity to write a great article for his Sunday column - 'Where Are They Now'? - highlighting Dons abilities on the tennis and squash courts as well as his distinguished career after he graduated West Point. Very good read. Sunday Constitution, August 4, page 3-C. 

 Appreciate Mary (Bowman) Thigpen, '49, for keeping me in the loop....this from Mary.......
 Peggy (Loud) Forster, '49, has her book in print!!! 'Letter Sounds to Help Parents Help Their Children' is available at: http: www.createspace.com It is also available through Amazon.com. Peggy wrote..."it has been quite a journey". She is living in a Senior complex in San Francisco.

 Edward Charles Ellenbrooks' August article is most interesting - about the Panther Creek Arrastra. [excerpt].....Arrastras were first introduced into this country by the Spanish in the 1500's. Arrastra comes from a Spanish word that means ...'to drag along the ground'. They were used to 'crush' rocks/ore in search for gold or silver. Probably built by miners at the turn of the century, the Panther Creek arrastra is one of the finest examples of a Spanish type arrastra and one of three found in the Wichitas.  This particular grinder is a little difficult to find, but Charles article gives much information about it as well as the location (map included). Very interesting read. Lawton Constitution, Saturday July 13, page 1 -C. Or, you can always contact Charles at: ecebrook sbcglobal.net

 btw....Lou Green has visited one of the arrastras in the Wichitas. Attached is a picture Luther sent back in spring of 2011. Gives a good idea what they look like although it is quite crude and do NOT believe it is the one Charles has pictured in his article.

 Great article featuring Bill and Billie (Suggs) Penn. Titled: 'Bill and Billie: A Powerful Pair'. Talks of the years the pair have spent involved in the Lawton community. Billie was field representative for US Sen. Don Nickles for 18 years and Bills many years of singing barbershop and being key member of the award winning Chairman of the Chord quartet. Billie Marie (Suggs) was LHS class 1957 and Bill is from Walters. They will celebrate their 54th anniversary this September. Great read. Lawton Constitution, Monday July 8, front page and page 3-A. www .swoknews.com

 Karon (Carpenter) Kylllingstad, '60, back home in Lawton after 2 weeks visiting with Karen (Kimball) Hutton, '60, in Ohio and Pittsburgh. Also Karens sister, Barbara (Kimball) Grundman and two of her children Allen Grundman and Susan Grundman. They are all LHS grads!

 Era Faye (Hamm) Kurtz, '59 writes that she & hubby David, '59, are still in Wichita, Kansas and doing great! 

 Charles and Jackie Darling had super time on a recent trip to Alaska. As fires were raging in S. CA they were craving Alaskas cooler temps. 

 George Gill, '63, (my bro) in Sturgis, SD the past few days where he attended the annual Motorcycle rally! He's a 'Harley Hogger!'

 Glenn Webb and wife Carole report "the time of their lives" in Athens and Ephesus. Glenn sent a great photo album. btw...Glenn is class '53 and was diagnosed recently with a benign brain tumor. Apparently he has had it for years and at least so far has not experienced any side-effects from the tumor.

 July Anniversaries include...... '59 classmate Ed Coulson and wife Susan celebrated their 25th Anniversary by taking 22 members of their family to Disneyland! Sounds 'magical' to me. The Coulsons live in Phoenix. Major congrats guys!!!

 More congratulations due Fred Burch, '52, and wife Claudette (Taylor), '55, of Lawton, as they celebrated their 60th anniversary by renewing their wedding vows at an event hosted by their daughter Fredda Steinberg in Houston.

 Also, '59 classmate Ellouise (Haulcy) and hubby Ernest Paul Love celebrated their 50th anniversary with a reception in Lawton hosted by their children and grandchildren.

 Happy, Happy, August Anniversary to: Janey (Johnston) and Bill Scott - 49th; Babs (Yarmuk) and Dee Givens - 52nd; Georgia (Gill) and Bill Williams - 48th; George and Christine (Parr) Gill - 47th. Congratulations to us all....wonderful accomplishment!

 And sing August Happy Birthday to: Sally Beth (Bassell) Wiseman; Bettie (Mowrey) Vail; Megan (Gill) Caudill; Tiffany Gill.

 Appreciate the vintage picture of Doe Doe Park send by Nikki Baker. I have posted it on the blog, right hand side, scroll down. It joins another picture of Doe Doe. 

 Tom Burroughs writes that he has "fond memories" of many he reads about in the news and would love to visit [email, mail, or phone] with any LHS classmates. You can correspond with Tom at (406) 837-5594; saxman cyberport.net snail mail is: PO Box 536, Bigfork, MT 59911. Tom is looking forward to the next class '56 reunion and plans to be there!

 John McKee, '54, hosted his annual 4th of July OU BBQ at his home in Santa Fe. Johns annual get together is for OU Sooners now living or visiting in Santa Fe. Some Lawton or former Lawton Sooners in attendance: Dee and Babs Givens; Bob and Karen Drewry; Suzie (Drewry) Battalia; Jack and Judy (Warkentin) Bryan. 

 Plans are finalized for class 1958 reunion September 20-21. Reservation and information forms are in the mail. If you need additional info, contact Kenneth Easton - kennetheeaston yahoo.com (580)353-6252 or (580)353-6253 fax.

 Appreciate emails from: Loretta (Hartline); Wanda Gayle (Smith) Sunderland; Larry Joe Thompson; Betty Boyce; Mary (Harris) Thompson; Bob Drewry; Pat (Adair) Vowell;

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 Mary Lou (Holt) Daniel passed on August 4 in Edmond. Mary Lou was LHS class 1943. Burial will be 11:00am on Friday August 9, in the Fort Sill East Cemetery. A Memorial Service at the Edmond church of Christ will follow at 2:30pm. http: matthewsfuneralhome.com

 Patricia Ann (Mercer) Howeth Sanders, 80, of Edmond passed on July 12. Memorial service was at Sunset Memorial Gardens in Lawton on July 16. Pat attended Washington and Wilson grade schools, central, and was LHS class 1950. She is survived by a daughter and her family; a son and his family; a brother Earl Mercer; large extended family. Extended obit and guest book at: www .beckerfuneral.com

 Helen (Jarvis) McReynolds, 82, of Des Moines, Iowa, passed on July 10. Services were in Des Moines on July 15 with burial in Lawton on July 17. Helen was LHS class 1947. She married William Claxon McReynolds in 1951, he preceded her in death. She is survived by a son and two daughters and their families. An extended and interesting obit and guest book at: www.whineryhuddleston.com

 Randolph 'Randy' Bay Abbott, 63, Leavenworth, KS, passed on July 20. Randy was LHS class 1968. Services were July 24 in Leavenworth. He is survived by wife Joy; 3 daughters; extended family. Extended obit at: www.dodgeglobe.com Our thoughts and prayers are with those who have lost loved ones and those receiving treatment for illness.

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 Happy Birthday Lawton. Doyce Grayson will be hawking 'refreshing adult beverages' every evening at the Lawton Rangers Rodeo starting Wednesday August 7 ~ at the L.O. Ranch. Regards to all........Georgia