Ilion High School
CLASS OF 1971 News

Welcome

to the

Class of 1971

Alumni News

1971 Mirror Cover

Class History....

    Now everything you wanted to know about the IHS Class of 1971 is at your fingertips....as published in the 1971 Mirror Class History.

Condolences

    Robert J. "Rob" Day '71, age 54, of Park St., a lifelong Ilion resident, passed away on Friday afternoon, January 18, 2008 following a brief illness. At the time of his passing, which occurred in Faxton-St. Luke's Healthcare, New Hartford, he had the love and support of his family at his side. He was born on April 3, 1953, in Ilion son of the late Robert and Anne (Furman) Day and graduated from Ilion High School. He furthered his education attending Albany School of Pharmacy and graduated from Utica College. Rob was united in marriage with Janice Caldwell on April 29, 1989 in Ilion, a union of 18 years. He was last employed with Faxton-St. Luke' s Healthcare as a lab technician and was at one time employed by the former Mohawk Valley Hospital and Herkimer Hospital. Rob was a dedicated family man. He enjoyed the time he spent bringing up his beloved huskies and will be sadly missed by family and friends alike. Survivors include his wife Janice at home; his children: Derek Day and fiancee Holly of Mohawk, Kristin Baker and husband Patrick of E. Herkimer, and Robert Day; his step-children: Rebecca Skandera of Vermont, Amanda Skandera of Frankfort and Martin Skandera of Albany; four grandchildren: Adin, Dakota, Emmie, Dylan; two brothers: Brian Day and wife Karen of Utah and Chris Day and wife Shelly of Little Falls; a sister: Leisa Merrick and husband Alan of South Carolina; in laws: Larry Caldwell and wife Barb of Rome, Susan Martin and husband Albert of Fort Plain and Lorraine Caldwell and husband David of Holland Patent; two aunts: Donna Angelichio and husband Anthony of Ilion and Charlotte Day of Ilion; many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Relatives and friends may pay their respects at the Applegate-Day & Enea Family Funeral Home, 102 West St., Ilion on Monday morning, Jan. 21, 2008 from 10 am until 12 noon and also invited to attend Rob's funeral service commencing at noon following calling hours at the funeral home with the Rev. Anthony Barratt, pastor of Annunciation Church, Ilion, officiating. He will be laid to rest in the spring in Armory Hill Cemetery. Kindly consider memorial offerings to the Herkimer County Humane Society, P.O. Box 73, Mohawk, NY 13407 or to the Community Animal Program (CAP), c/o Larry Ortlieb, Valley Home Furnishings, Shoppers Square, Little Falls. Envelopes are also available at the funeral home. The family offers their gratitude to the doctors, nurses and staff at Faxton-St. Luke's Healthcare, New Hartford for the care and compassion offered during this difficult time, especially those in the Intensive Care . (Jan 26, 2008)

Ned James Bohr IHS 1971 - Ilion NY
1971

Ned James Bohr IHS '71, age 53, passed away on July 16, 2007 at the Siegenthaler Center in New Hartford. Born on August 14, 1953 in Ilion, NY, Ned was the son of Ned and Iona (Terrell) Bohr. He was educated in Ilion Schools and attended Morrisville College. Throughout the valley, he was known as a self-employed contractor, specializing in roofing. Even as a small child, Ned loved being outdoors. Many of his happiest times were spent with friends hunting and fishing. He developed a keen interest in antiques and enjoyed going to garage sales, auctions, and antique shops. Ned was a "simple man with simple needs," as he said many times and will be truly missed by all who knew him.

He is survived by his parents, Iona and Ned Bohr of Ilion; a sister and brother-in-law, Kathleen and John Hannon of Amherst, NY; a brother, Richard Bohr of Wellsboro, PA; two nephews, Steven and Scott Hannon of Amherst, NY; and a very special companion, Ginger Cooley of Waterville, NY; her children, Calvin and Lori Richards of Little Falls, Candice and Alex Roux of Ilion, Ryan Cooley of Dolgeville; and two grandchildren, Carissa and Alex Roux. Ned also leaves several aunts, uncles and cousins. Funeral services for Ned will be held on Friday, July 20, 2007, at 1:00 p.m. from the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, 100 Otsego Street, Ilion, with Pastor Ann Zimmerman officiating. Interment will be in the Armory Hill Cemetery, Ilion. Friends may call on Thursday, July 19, 2007, from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations in Ned's memory to the Roswell Park Alliance Foundation, Elm and Carlton Streets, Buffalo, NY 14263; or the Siegenthaler Center, Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 4277 Middle Settlement Road, New Hartford, NY 13413. His family would like to thank the physicians and staff at the Roswell Park Cancer Institution and the staff of the Siegenthaler Center for their kindness and understanding during this difficult time. Online condolences may be left by going to Whiter-Hendrix.com. (Jul 18, 2007)

Benefit Held for Ned Bohr '71.....

    Ned Bohr, a life long resident of Ilion, graduate of IHS Class of '71, and local self-employed contractor, was recently diagnosed with cancer. The proceeds from the Chicken BBQ benefit helped defray his astronomical medical bills. (May 15, 2007)

    Saturday - May 12, 2007
    Ilion Knights of Columbus
    1 p.m. to 6 p.m.
    Live Music, Chinese Auction & Raffles
    $10.00 Donation

    Tickets were available at the Ilion Elks, the Ilion Knights of Columbus, Lennox, Bros. or Greenies Market. For more information, private donations, or tickets, please contact Maria Daz. (315-894-9284)

Notable.....

1971 Alumnus Sets Bail for University of Vermont Coed Murder Suspect.....

    Class of 1971 Alumnus, Honorable M. Kathleen Manley, Caledonia Superior Court Presiding Judge, set bail at $150,000 in the arraignment of suspect, Brian L. Rooney, age 36, on sex charges. In the course of investigating the disappearance and murder of University of Vermont senior, Michelle Gardner-Quinn, authorities uncovered evidence implicating Rooney in several acts of sexual misconduct in Caledonia and Essex counties. Kathy graduated from Western New England College of Law in Sringfield, Mass.. Prior to moving to Vermont, Kathy was a member of the law firm of Carter and Manley, in Ilion. She also served as Chief Assistant District Attorney in Herkimer County and Ilion village attorney. (Oct 20, 2006)
    see these related links:

    www.caledonianrecord.com

    www.burlingtonfreepress.com

    www.wcax.com

1971 Alumnus on CBS Evening News.....

    Class of 1971 Alumnus, Stuart Strife, appeared on CBS Evening New on March 14, 2006 in a segment entitled, "Mixing Oil and Water." The video clip is available here. "As the Bush administration pushes for exploration of U.S. oil and natural gas reserves, one of the first frontiers is not far from treasured Florida beaches. Jim Acosta reports."
    Stuart Strife is the Director Of Exploration for the Anadarko Petroleum Company.
    (May 19, 2006)

Condolences.....

    James F. Burton, IHS '71, passed away Tuesday, Nov. 1. in Anderson, Ind., after a long battle with cancer and kidney disease. He was born Feb. 7, 1952 in Ilion, the son of Mrs. Joyce B. Fedele and the late Raymond W. Burton. James attended Ilion schools. Survivors include his wife Kathy of Indiana; mother and stepfather, Mr. and Mrs. Frank Fedele of Litchfield; stepmother Mrs. Jessie Burton of Ilion; sisters, Kathy and husband of Litchfield, Sallie and companion of Litchfield, Wendy and companion of Oneonta; brothers, William and companion of Herkimer, Dale and wife Kathy of Elmira, and Tracy and wife Florence of Rome; step-brothers and step-sisters; several aunts and uncles; nieces and nephews. James was predeceased by his grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Raymond Burton, Sr. and Mr. and Mrs. Charles M. Bouck, all of Ilion; his father, Raymond; a sister, Debra; and a brother, Charles. A memorial service will be planned for a later date. (Nov 14, 2005)

    Kathleen Mae Callister, IHS '71, 52, of Marcy, passed away on Monday, Oct. 24, 2005, after a courageous battle with cancer. She was born June 11, 1953, in Ilion, daughter of the late Richard Callister and Agatha Lampman Callister McQuesten. A lifelong area resident, she was raised in Ilion and graduated from Ilion High School, where she was an outstanding athlete. She furthered her education at Herkimer County Community College and went on to SUNY-Cortland, where she earned her bachelor's and the master's degree in Health Education in 1976. During those years she continued to participate in basketball, softball and tennis. She was a multi-year participant in the Utica Boilermaker with her most recent race completed in 2003. Kathy was a true advocate for women's sports. She played a vital role in assigning and officiating of Section III basketball, field hockey, softball and volleyball. She began officiating field hockey in the fall of 1972. She was instrumental in establishing the Field Hockey Board and has remained as the only official assignor in the sport of field hockey. She had served as an official in several sectional, regional and state contests and in some years traveling as far as Albany and Buffalo. Kathy had coached basketball and softball for various schools throughout the section and in 1980 her New York Mills softball team won the Section III title. She was the recipient of the Section III Service Award. She considered this one of her proudest accomplishments. In addition to running, she enjoyed the time spent with friends in the Adirondacks. Her love for the outdoors allowed her quality time kayaking and jet skiing. For the past 27 years Kathy has been employed as a senior recreation therapist for the Central New York Psychiatric Center in Marcy. Kathy is the definition of a special personŠExceptionalŠEnthusiasticŠEnduring. She was a good Samaritan to all in need. Her undying energy to help the weak and elderly made her a truly remarkable person. She filled our lives with happiness and sweet feelings that we will carry in our hearts forever. Surviving are her endearing companion, Glory Stuhlinger, of Marcy; two brothers and their wives, Richard and Cindy Callister of Escondido, Calif. and David and Judith Callister of Westmoreland; two sisters, Diana Geno of Ilion and Mary-Lyn Swart and her husband Dennis of the state of Ohio; a special aunt and uncle, Veronica and Warren Rocque of Barneveld; special cousins, Bonnie Rocque and Rosemary Rees; several nieces, nephews, grand nieces, grand nephews and cousins. She was predeceased by her parents, two brothers, Edward and William Callister and one sister, Janet Callister. Funeral service will be on Thursday at 11 a.m. in Fenner Funeral Home Inc., 115 Court St., Herkimer, with the Rev. Rodney VonPackal officiating. Interment will follow in Oak Hill Cemetery. Calling hours are Wednesday (today) from 4-7 p.m. In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be made with donations to LUNGevity Foundation, 4541 N. Ravenswood Ave., Suite 303, Chicago, Ill. 60640. A heartfelt thank you to Dr. Samir Desai, Windy Mitchell P.A. and their remarkable medical team for the dedication, genuine kindness, sensitivity and care they provided to Kathy, in making her feel special and learning to live with cancer. (Nov 14, 2005)

    Rodney Walter Wood, IHS '71, age 50, West Winfield, passed away Saturday, Sept. 14, 2002, at Faxton Hospital, Utica. He was born July 5, 1952, in Ilion, the son of Mike and Marjorie Knapp Wood. He was educated in the Ilion school system and on March 28, 1970, he married the former Patricia Miller in Ilion. Mr. Wood was self-employed as a carpet installer and also worked at Marcy Carpet in Marcy. Mr. Wood is survived by his wife, Patricia; his father and stepmother, Mike and Shelva Wood of West Winfield; his mother, Marjorie Wood; a son and daughter-in-law, Sean and Cristy Wood of West Winfield; two daughters, Stacy Wood and her partner Christy Anguilli of Orlando, Fla., and Shannon Moon of Bridgewater; a brother and his companion, Kenneth Wood and Jeanne of Jacksonville, Fla.; a sister and brother-in-law, Pamela and Bill George of Jacksonville, Fla.; and five grandchildren, Brittany, Austin, Savannah, Lakota and Dawson. Graveside service for Mr. Wood will be held Tuesday, Sept. 17, at 11 a.m. in the Cedarville Cemetery, with Pastor Jerry Race officiating. Friends may call Monday (today) from 4-7 p.m. at the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, 100 Otsego St, Ilion. (September 16, 2002)

    Friend's Tribute to Rod Wood .....

    John S. Janicki, IHS 1971, age 48, of Barringer Road, Ilion, died unexpectedly Wednesday, August 21, 2002. John was born in Ilion Nov. 8, 1953, son of John J. and Mary (Thompson) Janicki. He attended Ilion schools and was a graduate of Ilion High School "Class of 1971," and attended Herkimer County Community College. John was a self-employed canopy installer, most recently subcontracting for Steel Tech Inc. of Georgia. Prior to returning to the Mohawk Valley, John resided in Long Beach, Calif. and was employed on the docks as a shipwright, at one time working on Howard Hugh's ship the Glomar Explorer. John loved people, and he was known to many as a kind and generous friend. John cherished his beloved family above all else, as they did him. Survivors include his loving parents, John and Mary Janicki of Ilion; his devoted sister, Jody Janicki of Ilion, with whom he resided and Jody's friend, Rudy Gadziala, also of Ilion; his cousins, Mark Kasper of Massachusetts, Eric Kasper and his wife Julie of North Carolina, Larry and his wife Becky Kasper of Florida, Scott and his wife Verna Kasper, also of Florida, Jean and Paul Davis of Leonardsville, Skip and Millie Gregory of West Winfield and Teddy Lohnas and Elaine Samaniego of DeWitt; one uncle, Steve Janicki of Michigan and his very close and dear friends, Dott and Bob Daly and family of Ilion. John was predeceased by his beloved grandparents, "Nan and Pop" and his Aunt Pauline and Uncle Larry Kasper. John's funeral services will be held Saturday, Aug. 24, commencing at 1 p.m. at the Applegate and Day Funeral Home, 102 West St., Ilion with the Rev. George Greene, rector of St. Augustine's Episcopal Church, officiating. Procession to Armory Hill Cemetery for interment in the family plot will follow the service. Family and friends are invited to visitation Saturday from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. prior to the funeral service at the Applegate and Day Funeral Home, Ilion. In lieu of floral offerings, please consider memorial contributions in John's name to the Ilion High School Foundation. Donation envelopes are available at the funeral home. "John -- We will love you forever!" Mom, Dad, Jody. (August 23, 2002)

Notable.....

    John Peterson was recognized, by his community of Glen Eliyn Ill, for his rescue of a 15 year old neighbor. On August 13, 2002, during a rainstorm, 15 year old neighbor Vicky Bedlek attempted to remove a bale of hay which was blocking a large drainage tube in the road. Water was overflowing the ditch and flooding the Bedleck's driveway. John Peterson arrived at home and began assisting Miss Bedlek.The two were able to remove the blockage, however, moments later Bedleck slipped and struck her head on a pitchfork that she had been using. Both of her legs went into the drainage tube and the strong suction, caused by the strong storm waters, began to pull her whole body inside. John grabbed her arms, preventing her from being sucked into the drainage tube completely. John's wife heard his calls for help and came and braced him as he held on to the girl. When the rain subsided, they were able to pull Bedlek from the tube. She only suffered minor scrapes and buises. John needed eight stitches on a finger that was injured while removing the bale of hay. (September 28, 2002)

Congratulations.....

    Dianne (Southwick) Shapiro, will receive the Educator of Excellence award for 2002 from NYSEC at their annual conference awards luncheon on October 18, 2002 in Albany. NYSEC is a professional organization for English Language Arts teachers, K through college, and serves educators throughout NYS. Dianne is a 25 year veteran special educator at Ticonderoga High School. She also currently serves as the coordinator of Teachers Helping Studens, at risk program; chairperson of the district's Excellence and Accountability Team; and member and past chair of the high school Building Leadership Team. Dianne was nominated for this honor with a portfolio submitted in March that highlighted her work, presented examples of exemplar teaching materials, and included recommendations from students Todd Trudeau and Tia Woodin, both members of the class of 2002, and two colleagues.(September 26, 2002)

Village Election Results.....

    The Village of Ilion Election was held Tuesday, June 4, 2002. New-comers, Democratic candidates John Gilmartin - Mayoral Candidate and Lois Manley - Trustee candidate were elected. The Incumbant Democratic Trustee candidate, Tom Bechard, was also re-elected. John Gilmartin received 842 votes defeating Republican candidate Kevin Bluett who received 439 votes. Lois Manley was the high vote-getter with a total of 856 votes. Tom Bechard received 770 votes. Republican candidates for the four year trustee positions were Jan Burling - 534 votes and Charles 'Chuck' Lester - 380 votes. Congratulations to the winners and a big thank you to all the candidates for offering to serve their community. Polls were open from noon until 9 pm, at five locations: Municipal Building, Forge Hill Estates carriage house, the Herkimer County Marine Corps League building on Second Street, London Towers and Prindle Apartments.(June 9, 2002)

Village June Election.....

    You can now review more Detailed Candidate Information

    Current Ilion Mayor, Charles Haggerty, does not plan on running for re-election in June. John Gilmartin IHS '43 is seeking the Democratic Party nomination for the mayoral position on the ballot. Current Village Trustee Kevin Bluett IHS '74 will seek election to the four-year mayoral post on the Republican ballot.

    Lois Murphy Manley IHS '55 is seeking the Democratic nomination for a four-year Trustee seat. Incumbant Thomas Bechard IHS '72, who ran on the Democratic ticket in 2000, plans on seeking another term. The Republican Committee selected Charles 'Chuck' Lester IHS '74 and Janice Forbes Burling IHS '71 to run for four-year trustee terms in June.

    April 1 is the deadline for nominating petitions to be submitted for the Republican Party. The Democrats have between April 9 and 16 to hold a caucus to choose who will run. Independent candidates can file between April 23 and 30. (April 11, 2002)

Golden Bombers Buzz WebSite.....

    Barb Boucher from Dolgeville, NY email sent news.

      "In March, I was elected to the position of Dolgeville Village Trustee. I still can't believe it! The Village Board is now comprised of 4 Democrats and 1 Republican. Three of the members are also women. In addition, I've been appointed as Presidentof the Mohawk Valley Center of the Arts Board of Directors for 2008-2009. Since retiring, most of my time has been spent in volunteering with several local non-profit organizations and participating in a reading program for students at Dolgeville Elementary School. Life is full and busy.." (June 6, 2008)

    Shelley Rice, Project Coordinator, email, from Kissimmee, FL, re-registered. (Oct 26, 2007)

    Jan Merrick Hill, Document Specialist, State of Florida, email, from New Port Richey, FL, re-registered. (Oct 26, 2007)

    Mary Richards Hoy, retired, email , from Tallahassee, FL, re-registered. (Oct 26, 2007)

    Patricia Nestle Buchinski, Women's Program Manager, at www.thelighthousemission.org email, from Bellingham, WA, re-registered. (May 11,2007)

    Ronald (Francisco) Fransesco, Truck Driver, email , Waitsburg, WA, re-registered. (Dec 14, 2006)

    Barb Boucher from Dolgeville, NY email sent news.

      "Wow! I've moved back to the Valley after living away for over 35 years. While living in California for most of that time was blissful, lifestyle changes made the move back east a reality. It took over 10 months to find and ultimately purchase the "perfect" house. As of July I offically became a real "429r" and Dolgeville resident. While living in Ilion, I never spent much time east of Herkimer. This has been a real experience getting into the very small town life. It sure isn't Berkeley, CA any longer!! How I miss the cuisine and cultural aspects of a large urban area BUT I know chances are slim to none of having a homeless person sleeping on my front porch now. The only scary thing is dodging ATV's zipping up the sidewalks and grass on their way to the trail up the hill from the house. I purchased an 1880 fully restored Victorian house complete with fish scale exterior, a butler pantry, built in china cabinets, stained glass windows, and most importantly recently gutted/remodel kitchen with a family room added to the back of the house. Look forward to hearing from members of the class of '71." (Oct 10, 2006)

    Beth Lynch, RN / Case worker, email, from Ilion, NY, registered. (April 4, 2006)

    Christine Gorman Francis, Mortgage Loan Officer, email, from Liverpool, NY, registered. (April 3, 2005)

    Sheila Skevnick Bush, email, Bonifay, FL, re-registered. (November 20, 2004)

    Claire Bunce Sudakow, Chico, CA, email, re-registered. (July 11, 2004)

    Cynthia Kirkey Albin, Cosmetologist, email, Ilion, NY, re-registered. (April 3, 2004)

    Brad Mogensen, N.Y.S.-D.O.T (Herkimer), email, from Ilion, NY, registered. (July 13, 2003)

    Evelyn Griffith Moore, email, Durham, NH, re-registered. (January 11, 2003)

    Paul Werthman, Boston, NY, is attending the mega-reunion. (October 7, 2002)

    Ed Gahan, from Ilion, NY, will be attending the mega-reunion. (October 4, 2002)

    Roberta Pederson Mahlmeister, from Schenectady, NY, email rapram@a0l.com, is attending the mega-reunion. (September 29, 2002)

    Tom Goldin, email tdgoldin@cs.com, Ilion, NY, is attending the mega-reunion. (September 28, 2002)

    Sherri Gollegly Morris-Schiebel, School Counselor, email smmms@aol.com, from Ilion, NY, went news. (September 22, 2002)

      "I have been the school counselor at Brookfield Central School for five years now. And I'm completing the classes and internship for my administrative certification. Its all keeping me very busy! I'd love to hear from former school mates. Good health to all!"

    Susan Bowler, Medical Secretary, email auntsue21234@yahoo.com, Baltimore, MD, registered. (September 7, 2002)

    Judy Weeden Shafer, email judy-shafer@hotmail.com, Tully, NY, is attending the mega-reunion. (September 6, 2002)

    Karen Entwistle Urtz, Insurance Underwriter, email karenu2@aol@aol.com, from Ilion, NY, re-registered and is attending the mega-reunion. (September 4, 2002)

    Don Unsinn, from Frankfort, NY, is attending the mega-reunion. (August 28, 2002)

    Dick Capes, email rwcapes@webtv.net, Winston-Salem, NC, is attending the mega reunion. (August 24, 2002)

    Ronald (Francisco) Fransesco, ASPHALT DUMP-TRUCK DRIVER, email , Waitsburg, WA, re-registered. (August 11, 2002)

      "It's been really good to hear from a few former classmates. Even though we left Ilion in '68 to move to Hawaii, I still consider the Class of '71 to be the best! Although I can't make it to the re-union due to work, I'll be thinking of you. I still live in Waitsburg, WA., a town simular to Ilion with wife Lara (14 Yrs.) & son Jonathan. I'm still an Asphalt Transportation Technician (fancy huh, LOL) for a Paving Co. Take care & hope to hear from a few more 'old' classmates. Aloha, Ron"

    Jane Sullivan Bass, Consultant, email janebass1@yahoo.com, from Mclean, VA, registered. (August 10, 2002)

    Jan Forbes Burling, email jburling@twcny.rr.com, Ilion, NY, is attending the mega-reunion. (August 8, 2002)

    Francine LaPuma Keddell, email kkeddell@twcny.rr.com, from Little Falls, NY, is attending the mega-reunion. (August 4, 2002)

    Mary Keddell Patelos, email marepat@aol.com, from Loudonville, NY, is attending the mega-reunion. (August 4, 2002)

    Margaret (Peggy) Prentice Childress, email peggyc@prodigy.net, Jacksonville, NY, is attending the mega-reunion. (August 2, 2002)

    Marcia Smith McCoy, email mmccoy58@aol.com, Rincon, GA, is attending the mega-reunion. (August 1, 2002)

    Kathleen Manley, email kmanley@kingcon.com, from Lyndonville, VT, is attending the mega-reunion. (August 1, 2002)

    Pamela LaLonde, from Herkimer, NY, is attending the mega-reunion. (June 14, 2002)

    Robert Moore and Evie Griffith Moore, email evemoo@aol.com, from Durham, NH, are attending the mega-reunion. (June 13, 2002)

    Colleen Moran Schults, email Bluecol52@hotmail.com, from Ilion, NY, is attending the mega-reunion. (June 12, 2002)

    Robert Day, email rday731@cs.com, from Ilion, NY, is attending the mega-reunion. (June 12, 2002)

    Judi Abeline McGrellis, email KMcGRELL@twcny.rr.com, Ilion, NY, is attending the mega-reunion. (modified August 8, 2002)

    Charles Leitz, Accountant, email chaz10s@aol.com, Tustin Ranch, CA, registered. (May 21, 2002)

    Danny Travis, TTO USPS, email dankat@att.net, Tacoma, WA, re-registered. (May 21, 2002)

    Deborah Streeter Bullis, email dbullis@twcny.rr.com, Ilion, NY, re-registered. (May 3, 2002)

    Sheila Skevnick Bush, Bonifay, FL, re-registered. (May 2, 2002)

      "New news, not only do I have a beautiful almost three yr old grandaughter, I was also blessed with twin girl grandaughters ten months ago. I am remarried, happily. I am in the ministry , and truly love the Lord. I am truly blessed in all areas of my life. God has really been good to me. I am still in Florida, and miss my home town very much. I hope to get back there sometime."

    Priscilla Reed Wildey, Clerk, email wildeyp@sunyit.edu, Ilion, NY, re-registered. (April 19, 2002)

    Dick Capes, email rwcapes@webtv.net, Winston-Salem, NC, signed the Guestbook. (April 2, 2002)

      "I was in Ilion last week and Rick DeJohn sent me this site. It's fun reading about people you don't see anymore. Great site."

    Peggy Prentice Childress, email PEGGYC@PRODIGY.NET, from Jacksonville, FL, re-registered and submitted the reunion survey form. (March 16, 2002)

    Dennis Maxfield, website is The Trade News Service, email tns@fats-and-oils.com, from Canandaigua, NY, re-registered. (March 12, 2002)

    Theresa Lane LaPoint, email tlapoint@twcny.rr.com, from Ilion, NY, submitted the mega-reunion survey form. (March 9, 2002)

    Kathleen Manley, email kmanley@kingcon.com, from Lyndonville, VT, re-registered. (March 7, 2002)

      "I AM A REALTOR NOW. ANYONE LOOKING TO BUY A HOUSE IN FLORIDA???????????????" - Peggy(March 6, 2002)

    Jay Mogensen, Kansas City, KS, re-registerd. (Feb 28, 2002)

    Mary Richards Hoy, Ilion, NY, submitted the mega-reunion survey form. (February 20, 2002)

    Jack Eller, US Navy Consultant, email jayeller@aol.com, Herndon, VA, registered. (February 18, 2002)

    Janice Forbes Burling, email jburling@twcny.rr.com, Ilion, NY, submitted the mega-reunion survey form. (February 17, 2002)

    Marcia Smith McCoy, email mmccoy58@aol.com, Rincon, GA, submitted the mega-reunion survey form. (February 17, 2002)

    Roberta Carney Haefele, email haefelerm@yahoo.com, Ilion, NY, submitted the mega-reunion survey form. (February 16, 2002)

    Mike Bugal, email heartlandchapel@socket.net, from Centralia, MO, submitted the mega-reunion survey form. (February 16, 2002)

    Ross Raymond, email reraymon@us.ibm.com, from Vergennes, VT, submitted the mega-reunion survey form. (February 16, 2002)

    Donna Doty Pridgen, email DONNAPRID@MSN.COM, Stuart, FL, submitted the mega-reunion survey form. (February 16, 2002)

    Michael Bugal, email heartlandchapel@socket.net - website - www.heartlandchapel.org, Centralia, MO, registered. (July 8, 2001)

      "I just found out about this site and am pleased to find out where some of our classmates are presently. I was saddened to read of the death of Bud Fischer and Grace Bouton at such an early age. Just shows that no one is guaranteed how long we'll live and that NOW is the time to answer the question that Jesus asked of Peter, "Who do men say that I am?". I was very pleased to see that Tim Parkinson is serving the Lord in an excellent ministry at Lakewood Church. As for me and my house, as Joshua said, we will serve the Lord. God bless everyone!"

    Judith Abeline McGrellis, Ilion, NY, registered. (March 9, 2001)

    Bob Bennett, email lizbob@ppcs.net, from Herkimer, NY, registered. (May 29, 2000)

    Cheryl Dove Brown, Asst Mgr Kay Jewelers, email tb5cb@quixnet.net, from Clifton Park, NY, registered. (May 29, 2000)

    Patricia Nestle Buchinski, Insurance, from Lincoln, NE, the first alumnus from the Class of 1971 re-registered in the alumni directory. (April 21, 2000)

    Ronald Francesco, Truck Driver, from Waitsburg, Wa, registered. (February 27, 2000)

    Cherie Greene, from Daytona Beach, FL, registered. (February 2, 2000)

    Shirley Heintz Ross, email tsjeross@aol.com, from Canton, MI, registered. (November 13, 1999)

    Wanda Bluett Horner, email cmt4me9582@cs.com, from Ilion, NY, visited the Class of '71 page. (October 30, 1999)

    Faith Ludden Smagalski, email Indiana@metro.net, from Petaluma, CA, visited the Class of '71 page. (October 30, 1999)

    Lynn Hull, Flight Controller/Pilot, email av8tor@midsouth.rr.com, from Cordova, TN, registered. (July 4, 1999)

    Tom 'Bing' Hart, Fishman, email tropdec@borg.com, from Herkimer, NY, registered. (June 15, 1999)

    Margaret (Peggy) Prentice Childress , via her sister's email Linna11@aol.com, from Jacksonville, Fl, registered in the directory. (March 9, 1999)

    John Richards, email ncf130@borg.com, from Ilion, NY, signed the Class of '71 Guestbook. (modified May 8, 1999)

    Patricia Devins Miller, email PAM40773@aol.com, from Newport, NY, registered in the directory. (January 2, 1999)

    Barbara Tomei Harrison, email bharriso@hannibal.cnyric.org, from Oswego, NY, registered in the directory. (November 4, 1998)

    Donna Doty Pridgen, email dotysgolf@aol.com, from Jensen Beach, FL, signed the Class of '71 Guest Book. (August 12, 1998)

    Robert Day, disabled/dog breeder, from Ilion, NY, registered in the directory. (August 7, 1998)

    Priscilla Reed Wildey, email pwildey@aol.com, tried our Guess the Grads. (July 25, 1998)

    Jan Forbes Burling, V.P. Systems East, Ilion, NY, registered in the directory. (May 3, 1998)

    Patrick Devere, Truck Driver, from New Smyrna Beach, FL, registered in the directory. (modified May 20, 2001)

    Marcia Smith McCoy, email mmccoy58@AOL.COM, correctly identified our Guess the Grads. (April 5, 1998)

    Linda Bachman Wood, Moorehead, NC, registered in the directory. (March 3, 1998)

    Marcia Smith from Rincon, Georgia, according to her sister Gail, '75, is finally online. You can email Marcia at MMccoy58@aol.com. (February 7, 1998)

    Roberta Pedersen Mahlmeister email RAPRAM@AOL.com, signed the Class of 1971 Guestbook.(updated January 2, 1999)

    Sherri Gollegly Morris-Schiebel, a Graduate student, email smmms@aol.com, from Ilion, NY, registered in the directory. (January 19, 1998)

    Bill Lucey, Supervisor/Master Scheduler, from Mohawk, NY, registered in the directory. (January 9, 1998)

    Tom Goldin from Ilion, NY, email yrunuts@ntcnet.com, signed the Class of 1971 Guestbook. (December 11, 1997)

    Evelyn Griffith Moore, email EVEMOO@aol.com, successfully identified this month's Guess the Graduates. (September 19, 1997)

    Karen Entwistle Urtz, Ilion, drops a line..... "Just found this website. Nice job Aileen. My brother Bill said there was something out there but I never got a chance to look when he was home. "

Condolences.....

    Meryl 'Buddy' Smith Jr., age 46, died April 20, 1999, at Faxton Hospital with his family by his side. Buddy was born May 5, 1952, in Herkimer, the son of Meryl R. Sr. and Ruth Norton Smith. He was a graduate of the Ilion High School Class of 1971. He attended Morrisville College. He married Patricia 'Lee' Pross on December 19, 1992. Bud was employed as a maintenance machinist at the Remington Arms Co. for 26 years. He is survived by his wife, Lee; his daughters and sons-in-law Nancy and Scott Ratcliffe of Ilion, Jennifer and John Zahray of Indian Lake and Stacey Case and her fiance Mike Krasko of Little Falls, one daughter-in-law, Robin Case of Graseville; three grandchildren, his mother, Ruth Smith of Ilion; two sisters and brothers-in-law, Janis and Sam Colombo of Webster, and Jill and Phil Dale of Hamlin, one niece, three nephews; several aunts and uncles; and his in-laws. He was predeceased by his father, Meryl, in 1996, and his son Shawn, in 1997. Funeral services are under the care of Applegate & Day Funeral home. Interment will follow in Armory Hill Cemetery. Memorial Contributions my be made to the Faxton Hospital Foundation. "Buddy wants everyone to remember 'NOT TO WORRY!'". (April 22, 1999)

    Miss Grace Jenny Bouten died, after a long illness, at the home of her brother, September 30, 1997. Gracie was a friendly girl and always said 'hi' to everyone. She will be missed by those that knew and loved her. Our sympathy goes out to her family and friends. (October 17, 1997).

Class of 1971 - Reunion News.....

    "We're working on the 30th reunion - Informal gathering: Friday, August 31 at the Elks Club, in Ilion (9pm til ?) - Formal Dinner and Dance: September 1 at the Holiday Inn, 1777 Burrstone Road, New Hartford (8 pm til ?) RSVP by August 8 - Dinner $27 (Rooms available at the Holiday Inn at $99 per night) Still can't find the following people: If anyone can help - it would be appreciated!" (May 30, 2001)
    Tammy Ashley
    Linda Bachman Wood
    Wanda Bluett
    Sue Bowler
    Claire Bunce
    Jim Burton
    Dick Capes
    Bob Cheesebrough
    Marcia Collins
    Chuck Cowell
    Marty Ellis
    Kurt Hendrick
    Kathryn Hall
    Kerry Lee
    Margaet Longergan
    Beth Lynch
    Jim Maramarco
    Paula March
    John Peterson
    Cheryl Potter
    Kathy Rooke
    Jane Sullivan
    Ginnie Ward
    Sue Wightman

Top Scholar of the IHS Class of 2001 ....

    Alison Haefele is the 2001 valedictorian. She is the daughter of Roberta Carney Haefele (IHS 1971) and John Haefele. Congratulations to Alison Haefele. (modified May 30, 2001)

Sister Colleen Moran!....

    Colleen Moran Schultz isn't really a nun, she just played one in the recent musical production of Nuncrackers. Colleen starred as Sr. Mary Hubert in "Nuncrackers." She lives in Ilion with her husband, Bob, and her son, Ryan. (January 15, 2001)

Ilion Central High Alumni Club....

    Cherie Greene '71, initiated Yahoo Clubs - Gold and Brown, where alumni can post messages, news, photos and can chat. The club is similar to Mohawk's Alumni Club. Messages can be read by anyone, but for other areas of the Club you must first join. (January 2, 2001)

2000 Graduate Selected One of The Observer Dispatch Teen All-Stars

    Rebecaa Goldin, a member of the Class of 2000, daughter of Diane and Tom Goldin '71, was selected as an outstanding youth in the newspaper's annual Teen All Star feature. Becky tutors fifth graders at Remington Elementary School. She is president of Honor Society, Student Council, and Key Club. Her other school activities include varsity volleyball, basketball, soccer and parade band. She will attend Elmira Collage with career plans to eventually teach English. (June 5, 2000)

School Board Election - Congratulations Tom Goldin!...

    Tom Goldin won the five-year seat on the Ilion Central School District School Board. Tom was elected on May 16, 2000. School board member Phyllis Brien, after serving the district for more than 20 years, has decided not to seek re-election for a five-year term seat. The following candidates had filed petitions to run in the election: Thomas Goldin of 27 Harriet Ave., Tammy Mosher of 213 E. North St., Robert Michaud of 207 East Clark St., and Deanna Stubley of 36 Highland Ave. (modified May 19, 2000)

25th Wedding Anniversary....

    Congratulations to John and Bonnie McPherson DeRosa '71, from Mohawk NY, who celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary, on August 10, 1999. John is an electronics engineer at Rome Labs in Rome and Bonnie is a program secretary for the employment services department at the Herkimer Area Resource Center in Herkimer. (September 25, 1999)

    Congratulations to Patrick '71 and Dawn Shaefer Devere who celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary on September 14, 1999. (September 19, 1999)

Congratulations.....

    Governor Howard Dean appointed attorney Kathy Manley, email kmanley@kingcon.com, to serve on Vermont's Superior Court. She recently served, for the past five years, as a family court magistrate and acting district judge. Kathy graduated from Western New England College of Law in Sringfield, Mass.. Prior to moving to Vermont nine years ago, Kathy was a member of the law firm of Carter and Manley, in Ilion. She also served as Chief Assistant District Attorney in Herkimer County and Ilion village attorney. Congratulations and best wishes to Kathy on her new appointment. (May 9, 1999 - email modified Feb 27, 2002)

    Bob Applegate, on being appointed attorney for the Village of Ilion (August 17, 1997).

Classmate Updates....

    Don Yule '71, from Mississippi, sent news for the Class of '71. (September 6, 1998)

      "Hello Class of 1971..."

      "My younger brother told me about the site while I was visiting him in Dallas. So I thought I'd chime in with what I'm up to..."

      "Don Yule is a Civil Engineer, specialized in Earthquake Engineering. He is living in the deep south, Mississippi. He is married with 4 children... well, not really children anymore. "As your class president... Shouldn't I get at least ONE intern... I mean Christ... I didn't dodge the draft. I inhaled. I never used a trooper to get a date. Come on people... help me out here!"

      "Nice site. Definitely brings back some memories."

      "Y'all (Mississippi speak) take care." - Don Yule

    Dennis Maxfield, Publisher, from Canandaigua, NY, registered in the directory. (July 18, 1998)

      "Well, finding this website sure brought back a lot of memories. It's great! Not only for the information, but for the ability to find some of the people that you spent a lot of time with, but lost track of over the years. (It has been 27 years now). My wife of 23 years, Jennifer, and I are living here in Canandaigua where I publish an international trade paper. Our son Justin just turned 18 and will be attending Roberts Wesleyan College this Fall. Our daughter Kristen just turned 16 today and hopes to go into Musical theater some day. Once again, this site is great, and I look forward to returning many times in the future."

    Ed Joy, email joyej@borg.com, from Ilion, NY, signed the Guestbook. (May 22, 1998)

      "How is everyone doing? I stumbled across this page looking for some Ilion history. I guess I found some. A brief history, I've been married for 20 years to my wife and best friend Toni and have two boys. Richard will be 21 in Sept. and Chris will be 16 in Sept. I'm retired from Remington Arms after 25 years of service due to back problems. My wife and I also own and operate Hilltop Video & Photography here in Ilion, Ph: 895-7898. Stop in and pay us a visit if your in town. We are located at 159 Second St. Hope to see some of you in the future." - Ed Joy

    Francine LaPuma Keddell, a Housewife, from Little Falls, NY, registered in the directory. (April 24, 1998)

    Tim Parkinson, from Kingwood, TX, signed the Guestbook. (April 11, 1998)

      "Since leaving Ilion, I became a drugged out musician, then got saved and have been happy ever since. My wife and I lead the music at Lakewood Church, in Houston, TX. I also run the church's website. It's great to know that people from Ilion are able to keep in touch through the internet. Feel free to drop me an email. God bless you." - Tim

    Evelyn Griffith Moore, Bangor, ME, email EVEMOO@aol.com, sends the following message to Janice:

      "Congratulations to Skinny Merrick on her recent marriage and her new job. She is now married to a new man, Steve Hill, and has landed a job as an intern at the White House!" - Evi (February 27, 1998)
    Nick Dudish, from Cerritos, CA, email n.diamond@juno.com, signed the Alumni Website Guestbook. (December 12, 1997)

      "It's nice to visit your website and take a walk down memory lane! I am currently employed by The Boeing Company at their Space Systems Division on the Space Station program.Living in So. Calif.has sure been one experience that I never would have dreamed of when I was back in Ilion. Earthquakes,fires,riots,freeways,floods, and now El Nino! Sounds like a country&western song? But it has been good to me. I am married to Donna,(a California princess and have one son Eric. I've picked up a slew of licences to satisfy my entreprenuer urges (General Contractor, Stock Broker,Life insurance,and Real Estate)and also to buffer the aerospace hiring cycles. I would like to wish all my former classmates the best and hope that their life cycle is one of peace and prosperity."

    The 1971 Class Guestbook....




    If you have any news for the Class of 1971 or a recent class directory, please contact Aileen Carney Sweeney.

    ilion alumni classes index link

    June 6, 2008

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