Classmate Updates

 

To be more environmentally friendly, and to keep our reunion costs down (we previously had classmate update information printed into booklets), I’ve added this new section Classmate Updates. I’d like to encourage classmates to email me a paragraph you wish to share (there’s an email link envelope at the bottom of this page), updating other classmates of your activities since leaving Everett. Need some ideas? Past shared information included work/retirement, hobbies, family, travel, pets or general thoughts.  I have received several inquiries about classmates who are on the “Remembering” list regarding did they have families, where did they work, etc.  As time permits, I’ll be adding information about our classmates that have passed that I’ve obtained from the obituary releases in local papers.  I think it serves as yet another way to remember our fellow classmates.

Shelly (Aquino) Nelson: After graduating from Everett, I attended Davenport University and Cleary University and began employment with the Michigan State Police. I had many interesting jobs there plus I met and married my husband who was a Detective Lieutenant in Forensic Science. I now live alone on the west side of Lansing with my roommate, a sweet yellow lab. She’s such a character and companion.

I retired from state government after working 25 years for the Departments of State Police (very interesting) and the Department of Civil Service and Law Enforcement at the Department of Natural Resources (another interesting job).

Now I spend my time doing a little gardening, walking, enjoying time with my extended family which includes 2 grown nieces and a nephew and 6 grand nieces and nephews….that includes a set of 6 year old triplets. They are fun . My main interests are painting in watercolor and acrylics. I also am busy knitting and interested in doing anything that involves creativity and nature. Enjoy the same music that I did in the 70s and 80s plus Blues. I have not grown up yet and it’s not on my bucket list.  [August 20, 2015]

Daniel Richard Ball passed away unexpectedly January 1, 2014. Dan was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan, grew up in Lansing, lived in the Detroit area for many years, and in New Jersey for 10 years. He had recently returned to Lansing. He graduated from Lansing Everett High School and attended General Motors Institute after which he worked as a Service Manager in auto dealerships. He is survived by his financee, April Medicinebear; her children, Anthony, Alyssa, Anjelika and Ariel; and his sister, Cindy Ball Parsons (Jeff). Dan had a wide variety of interesting hobbies. He was a sailor, scuba diver, and hunter of upland birds. He enjoyed WWII reenactments, photography, and model railroading. [information from Lansing State Journal]

Sandy (Barnard) Williams: I continue to work and tutor as a Reading Specialist at Walters Elementary in Marshall, MI. My husband, Dan, who was an Accountant in now retired. Our daughter, Blair, is also an Accountant and works for the St. Joseph County ISD as a Fiscal Services Manager overseeing the Mendon and Centreville School Districts finances. Blair became engaged in July to Matt who works for Stryker as a corporate airplane mechanic. He hopes to oversee an airport some day and continue to work with a large private business. Still love memory keeping, photography, writing, traveling, reading and the arts. I’ve really enjoyed locating and catching up with folks via our Facebook group for Everett High School and Dwight Rich.  [August 28, 2015]

Gayle (Bauer) Richardson and Randy Richardson:  We met shortly after high school at the Montgomery Ward’s candy counter. Randy followed Gayle home on his uncle’s motorcycle. Ironically, we had both taken Hal Heins’ Advanced Comp class but didn’t meet there (Randy’s attendance was rather spotty). A couple years later, the Reverend Hal Heins performed our wedding ceremony. Now, 43 years later we’re attending our high school reunion.

Randy graduated from General Motors Institute (“GMI”) via Oldsmobile sponsorship while Gayle worked at Story Oldsmobile. Randy pursued a masters at MSU while working as a graduate teaching assistant in Electrical Engineering. We relocated to the Detroit area after Randy got a position with GM’s Manufacturing Staff at the Warren Tech Center. Computers became useful for manufacturing and Randy led the development of computerized process control systems for a raft of plant floor applications (e.g., vehicle alignment, fastener torque/tension control, electrical testers) and installed them in GM assembly plants.

Randy transferred to the GM Doraville assembly plant near Atlanta soon after our first son was born. We liked it so much that Randy turned down offers to return to corporate GM in Detroit. Our second son was born and life was good.

Randy was running the plant Data Processing Department when along came Ross Perot and EDS. He was promptly transferred back to the Warren Tech Center as the account manager for CPC Manufacturing Engineering. Randy later moved into a contract negotiation role and eventually sealed a multi-year deal with GM’s North American Operations. Thereafter, he was called upon to consult on Information Technology (“IT”) contracts around the globe. In typical engineering fashion, Randy led a project that automated GM’s IT contracting processes prior to his retirement after 37 years.

Gayle stayed home and raised our two sons, Ryan and Dennis. Both boys led active lives including sports and scouting. Gayle was chauffer and cheerleader for ours and several other boys that seemed to always be around. She went to Oakland University for a bit until cancer entered our lives. After surgeries and years of chemo she’s beaten the odds.

Both sons turned out fine but still no grandchildren. One is an IT manager; the other is a successful financial advisor. We’ve had to settle for golfing, raising Basset Hounds, and playing online games (WoW anyone?) since Randy’s retirement 8 years ago. We’re still hopeful as both sons are currently in serious relationships.

We have plans to travel some in the coming years. Randy got his fill of travel while at GM/EDS so it’s been difficult to get him motivated.  [July 21, 2015]

Connie Bayhan: All through high school, I dated Mike VanKuiken (Class of 69). We married after I graduated. We had a son also named Mike VanKuiken. Unfortunately, Mike and I divorced years later. His new wife and I are very good friends. My son Mike was involved with shipping on the Great Lakes for years. He piloted the Edward L Ryerson on his last job. He got hurt while on the ship. Broke his back in two places, broke his neck and almost tore one of his arms off. They were in the process of putting him back together, but he passed away in 2009 at 38 years of age. He was my only child. No family left. Since my son’s death, I just found out that I am a grandmother of a 24 year old young lady. My son didn’t know. I haven’t met her yet as she lives in Florida, but am elated. A piece of my son lives on! Right after my son’s death, I lost my best friend, Cathy Thomas (our class of 1970). Losing both of them so close together almost put me over the edge.

Through these years I worked in many factories. I’ve been a welder, fork lift driver, inspector, quality control, machine operator, etc. Also worked at BioPort/Emergent as an inspector for the anti-antrax vaccine as well as Wyeth making baby formula. It was a very interesting trip in the work field. I am now retired.

I keep busy around my place. I have lived in Holt since 1979. I live here with my 3 dachshunds. Outside of my main property I have a one acre park that keeps me real busy. Harder to take care of it now at my age. I love going out there. It’s like being way up north, but without the drive! I love to travel. I’ve been to Puerto Rico, London and Amsterdam many times and Ireland several times. Have to say Ireland is my favorite place to go. I don’t do tour groups. It’s more fun exploring on your own. I taught myself how to crotchet. I also make wreaths. I enjoy the internet. I guess that’s about it in a nut shell.   [September 13, 2015]

Penny (Beachnau) Illemszky:  What have I been up to is the question to be answered for this reunion. Ok so here goes… I lost my husband in 2012 due to complications of strokes and heart surgery. I have a grandson who just turned 18 (where did the years go). My daughter just turned 43 (she’s old). I downsized to a smaller house that I spent my teenager years in. So who says you can’t go home again? I share the house with my daughter and grandson.

My hobbies include making beaded jewelry with seed beads and thread hand sewn. I also crochet almost anything. I have crocheted for various charities over the past 2.5 years (at this writing). I am developing an interest in gardening but really hate the weeding. I read a lot, mostly historical fiction of one kind or another and have too many favorite authors to list. Music most definitely I listen to the music we grew up with (rock and easy listening). How dare they say its oldies now!!

We have assorted pets: 2 dogs, several cats, 2 ferrets and a rabbit. All belong to the kids not to me although I live with them as well and I am partial to the rescue beagle that we have. [July 21, 2015]

Kathy (Black) Freehauf:  I am now retired from teaching. I taught Physical Education at various schools for a total of 40 years. I enjoyed teaching but it is nice to be retired and be free to do whatever I want and whenever I want. My husband, Mike, and I now have a granddaughter named Isla who is 20 months old and the joy of our lives. Obviously we will be spending more time with her, now that both of us are retired. We plan to do some travelling and I will do more scrapbooking, catching up on putting my photos in albums. Life is good and relaxing!  [September 7, 2015]

Dave Brigham:  Dave decided to retire again in June 2014 from teaching this time (before it was 25 years at MSU in neuroscience and analytical chemistry). He finally called it quits after 12 years of challenges and successes (don’t get him started on government mandates in education – he’ll have a lot to say). He still goes in to assist in the classroom with chess club, organizing student recyclers, reading with students, writing grants, and participating in outdoor teaching. He is a teacher-trainer in natural history math as well. In these roles, he can appreciate the joys of teaching without the aspects he disliked.

He loves photography (mostly in the natural setting, and the grandkids, of course), kayaking, biking, sailing, hiking and travel. He and his wife, Jan (who retired as a zookeeper this year after 39 years), will go to Alaska in August to discover its joys. Volunteerism is the keyword for us in retirement. His sons are both married, own their own homes and are gainfully employed. Their children (3 total) are beautiful, enthusiastic, and fun-loving. The oldest starts school this year.

We are both fit with few health problems – a situation that we hope continues.  [June 18, 2015]

Mark David Calhoun passed away while vacationing up north on July 20, 2002 at the age of 49. Mark was an avid fisherman, happiest at the lake with his wife, dogs and wonderful neighbors. Mark will always be known as a kind and caring person in his home life and his workplace at Jackson National Life. He is survived by his wife of 15 years, Patricia; his step-children, Ryan (Jamie) Austin of Mason, Robyn (James) Bennett of Lansing; and grandchildren, Allen, Ashley and Tyler. Also surviving are his father, William L. Calhoun, of Holt; his brother, William M (Jane) Calhoun of Lansing; sisters, Christine Vandik of Bozeman, MT, Angie Calhoun of Holt. [information from Lansing State Journal]

Dennis Frank Card of Lansing, Michigan passed away on February 6, 2015. After high school graduation he was drafted and served his country during the Vietnam War. Upon returning to Michigan he went to work for General Motors where he worked until retiring in 2000. Dennis’s greatest joy was his family. He leaves behind, Kaci Card, Kyle Card, Lisa Card, Barbara Paspas, Don Card, Doug Card, and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews. [information from Lansing State Journal]

Darnell A. Clark passed away February 10, 2010. He worked as a purchasing technician for Oldsmobile for more than three decades. In his youth, he toured Europe twice as a performer in the Suitcase Theater. Darnell continued to have a passion for the arts through his life, with singing and acting as two of his strongest talents. He was an avid follower of current events, read science fiction and enjoyed documentaries. His was an infectious laugh, and he took pride i his ability to work with computers. He is survived by his life partner, John; mother, Bethany, Lansing; three brothers, Steven (Eva), Minnesota, Blair, Indiana, Craig, Washington, D.C.; one sister, Carolyn. [information from Lansing State Journal]

Doug Cornett [see Marion Scieszka Cornett]  September 13, 2015

Terry J. Cunningham passed away September 30, 1999 at the age of 47. Terry was employed by Frito-Lay for over 25 years and was a member and athletic director of Grace United Methodist Church of Lansing. He was an avid golfer and a kind hearted person who always had a ready simle. Terry was preceded in death by his brother, Gary (1984). Surviving are his wife of 27 years, Catherine J. (Gros)); 1 daughter, Kami R. Cunningham of Holt; his parents, Hugh D. and Helen D. Cunningham of Lansing; his twin brother Tom (Marye) Cunningham of Holt; 1 sister, Sandra K. (Robert) Lipka and 1 sister-in-law, Ortencia Cunningham-Martinez of Lansing. [information from Lansing State Journal]

Janis (Dail) Segedy:  After graduating from MSU in elementary education I taught 12 years at Chippewa Valley Schools, near Mt. Clemens, Michigan.  Husband, Jim Segedy, and I moved to Muncie, Indiana to teach at Ball State University, Muncie, Indiana,  for 29 years.  I enjoyed having practicum college students at Burris Lab School where I taught 2nd and 3rd graders.  While I kept honing my teaching skills, I reflected on the teachers from Everett that made me “think”.  I think Mr. Spencer, English teacher, was my favorite because he really challenged us in the classroom.  After retiring from teaching I began working part-time for Thrivent Financial as an office professional and enjoy learning about investments and retirement planning.

Jim and I had one son, David, who now lives in Seattle, Washington.  He graduated from Indiana University School of Art and enjoys playing in a band, “Sleeping Bag”.  I enjoy visiting him and all the lush, green scenery in Seattle.

Jim and I divorced after 33 years of marriage and I have been taking ballroom dance lessons, quilting, walking and singing in the church choir.  I have a wonderful boy friend and we are enjoying cruising, dancing and the local Ball State football and basketball events. [June 27, 2021]

Steven Edward DeWaters of St. Johns passed away February 25, 2014 at his home. He is survived by his daughter Angela and Sherwood Jones of Winter Garden, Florida, son Jason and Andrea DeWaters of Lansing, several grandchildren, and 2 sisters; Shari Horwath of Holt, MI, and Susan DeWaters of Melbourne, FL. Steve was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Renee DeWaters and his son Matthew DeWaters. [information from Lansing State Journal]

Thomas L. Dine passed away in a car crash in Owosso, Michigan on April 7, 1977. He is interred in Greenwood Cemetery in Osceola County. [information from Lansing State Journal]

Katie (Dyer) Rees and Rick Rees:   We are one of the Everett class of 70 high school sweetheart couples. We married in 73, so do the math and find that we have enjoyed 42 years of marriage. Rick is retired from Auto Owners Insurance, a fortune 500 company based in Lansing, where he served as internal auditor. Katie retired after 39 years of nursing in various RN positions. We retired to Plainfield Township, near Grand Rapids. It’s a beautiful area. We try to get away from the snow for a few weeks each winter.

We have nine grandchildren and will welcome one more in November. Family is our greatest pleasure. We are so proud of our three grown children and their spouses. Our favorite times are when all of us are together.

For fun, we like to travel around Michigan and this great country. We like mountains, lakes, woods and ocean views. Hope to make a leisurely road trip out west before it burns up or crashes into the Pacific. Katie likes to read, learn about local history, family history, write childhood memories, walk the dog and visiting with friends and family. Rick likes the visiting part and history too, but also biking, golf, and yard work. Not too much yard work! We both like to follow MSU sports (Rick’s alma mater.).

A quote recently seen on Facebook “We are not given a good life or a bad life. We are given a life. It’s up to us to make it good or bad”  [August 10, 2015]

Sherrie (Eastman) Nunheimer: I have been married to Dale Nunheimer (Everett class of 69) for 44 years. We have 2 married daughters and 6 fantastic grandchildren.

We have lived in the South Lansing/Holt area since we got married. We live on a small 7 acre lake and enjoy the water and have so much fun fishing, swimming and relaxing. There is something about water. We’ve been busy doing home remodeling the past few years. We have a new kitchen, added a sunroom and new deck and redid the back yard.

I worked many years in orthodontic practices doing insurance billing. I worked for 11 years in a church office and retired a couple years ago.

I keep busy with activities for the grandkids and volunteering at OSL food bank. I enjoy reading and camping and working in the new backyard.

Like everyone else I am feeling my age. I had a knee replacement 2years ago and having some issues, but I don’t fall down anymore so I’m staying positive.

Life hasn’t been perfect, but God has blessed me in so many ways. I am a very lucky lady!!  [September 5, 2015]

Jeff Fetters:  After graduation I went to work for GM and attended LCC part time. In May of 1973 I started my plumbing apprenticeship at Anderson Plumbing in south Lansing. In 1977 I obtained my Journeyman license. After 14 years at Anderson Plumbing I hired in with the Department of Corrections as a plumber at a facility in Ionia. In November of 88 I transferred to Hiawatha Correctional Facility in the Eastern UP. I was their Master Plumber for 8 years until I promoted to Physical Plant Supervisor 12 at Kinross Correctional Facility supervising a crew of 12 to 15 skilled tradesmen and the Power Plant Supervisor. I was responsible for the maintenance, remodeling and new construction of an 120 acre 2000 bed facility. In 2010 I retired after 23 years service with the MDOC.

August of 1974, I married the love of my life, Joyce. We will celebrate 50 years marriage next August 3rd. We had two children, a boy and girl, and have been blessed with 6 grandchildren. Our son has a degree from NWM College and Davenport University and is a Captain with Netjets Airlines flying the rich and famous. Our daughter graduated from Calvin College. Two years later she started working on her doctorate at MSU. She now works from home for American Institute Research while living an hour out to CapeTown South Africa. Joyce was a stay at home mom and she home-schooled our kids until they went back to public school in the 10th grade. When our youngest headed to college Joyce was offered a front office job at a busy local dental office.  We both retired in the summer of 2010. Joyce and I live in the beautiful eastern UP of Michigan in a 100 year old house on 50 acres of mostly wooded land about 2 miles from Raber Bay on the Saint Mary’s Waterway. We have remodeled the inside and out of our house over the years, doing most of the work ourselves. Joyce spends a great deal of time in her large garden every summer. Last year we  added a greenhouse to help stretch the seasons. We enjoyed fresh produce up until early December last year. 

We have enjoyed our retirement years very much. Our goal has been to have an active retirement involving working around our property (sawing, splitting, stacking firewood, mowing  several acres of lawn, gardening, cutting and hauling logs for our sawmill, doing woodworking projects in my insulated workshop, reading books, playing games, planning trips, etc.). March of 2011 we flew to Georgia with our backpacks and set out hiking on the Appalachian Trail heading north from Springer Mt. in Georgia. By the end of May we were a bit over 700 miles up the trail. At that point we were about a third of the way into Virginia. It was getting too hot to enjoy hiking so we  pulled off until fall. Off and on over the next couple years we hiked the AT up to New Jersey. It was a great experience that was hard but allowed us to meet several people and make friends for life with several others. (See trail journals.com – We’re Greenstone & Thimbleberry 2011, 2012, 2013)

Another aspect of our retirement is giving back to others.  Each winter we travel south to warmer weather after New Years working with the NOMADS doing volunteer work involving Christian camps, churches,, or projects that are disaster relief in nature (rebuilding homes that were damaged by tornadoes, hurricanes or flooding. The NOMADS are about 900 strong (Christian couples and singles with RV’s). We have worked in Texas, Arizona, Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee and Michigan.

We love to travel all over the US and have been to Hawaii several times. We also have spent several weeks in South Africa where our daughter and her family live. In  2015 we took our dream trip with our pick-up camper we headed to Alaska around May 20 visiting several National parks out west. We boarded the ferry in Prince Rupert BC. and got off at Haines, AK  We spent the whole summer touring Alaska returning home after Labor Day. [August 8, 2023]

Sally (Gage) Sizemore: My husband and I moved to Florida in October of 2011. Well, we discovered the Sunshine State, has turned into the rainy state, plus I can no longer handle the heat and humidity of the summers. We put our house up for sale in early August and the first couple to view it (from Connecticut) bought it! We’re moving back to the Lansing area in early Fall, and begin house-hunting. I guess the old saying, “you can’t go back home,” doesn’t apply to us. On a bittersweet note, I’ll be leaving my daughter, son-in-law and grandson, but we’ll be back to visit (especially in the winter months.) We’re looking forward to seeing family and spending time with old friends.  [August 9, 2015]

Gary F. Glasscock of Lansing, Michigan passed away April 12, 2015 after a short, brave battle with lung cancer. He loved good music, playing pool, fishing, Tiger baseball, recalling stories of days gone by and his quick wit was unmatched. His greatest joy, though, was being a grandpa. Left to cherish his memory are his children, Angela (Sam) Harcus, Shaun (Keagin Malott) Glasscock and Derek Glasscock; beloved grandchildren, Logan and Charlee Harcus; his brother, Loren (Cheryl) Glasscock; sister, Dawn (John) Hall; and a host of nieces and nephews, extended family and friends. [information from Lansing State Journal]

Kathryn (Hammell) Felton:  I was unfortunate to not graduate with all my classmates, but so glad Facebook happened in my lifetime to be able to meet back up with some wonderful people. I married and had 1 son ….then divorced and married again and have 2 daughters…went to Ross Medical and received my MA degree and got a job at MSU Clinical Center and worked there for 25 years. I put both my daughters through MSU and lived my life again through their school years. I have lived in Holt, MI for 38 yrs and made lots of new friends and neighbors. I was a Girl Scout leader and Camp Director for 20 years and my daughters helped out whenever their sports or other activities would allow. I enjoy camping, traveling, gardening and scrapbooking. My husband just retired last year, so we are looking forward to traveling more. My son gave me 6 grandkids and one from my daughter living in Georgia. My youngest lives in Holt and works for Ingham County Dispatchers. I have 5 Great Grandchildren and life is good ……..Let the music be in our lives forever, keep dancing!  [August 9, 2015]

Jocelyn (Hidecker) Heksem: After high school graduation, I continued on to college at Lansing Business University studying as a legal secretary. In 1972, I started work at Oldsmobile in the Data Processing Department and stayed there until 1975. Then, in April of 1975, I transferred from Oldsmobile to the GM warehouse and remained there until I retired April 1, 2005 as an Administrative Assistant to the Superintendents. While working at General Motors, I completed my dual Associate Degree in business, Bachelor Degree in business and Master’s Degree in Computer Science. Also, became a certified Scuba Diver.

My husband and I were married July 6, 1974, and have two daughters and one son. We also have 3 granddaughters and 7 grandsons. I have traveled to Europe twice for my son’s World Cup soccer games and visited Holland, Germany, Austria. Other places I have traveled to are Bahamas, Mexico, Canada numerous times, and throughout the U.S. including Hawaii. We are planning to go to China this December where I will be performing with the South Shore Orchestra.

I currently perform , violin, with the Mason Symphony Orchestra, Friday String Group, and Mid Michigan Summer Festival Orchestra. After retiring, I returned to LCC and completed my dual Associate Degree in music, Cum Laude. Then, flew to Montana to learn how to tune pianos and become a technician. In 2010, I tuned my piano to play at my son’s wedding. During the summer, I go to Blue Lake and Interlochen with my friends to play and enjoy music.

Retirement has been very rewarding and interesting for me. I do volunteer work for Interlochen, Lansing Symphony and MSU Gardening. Reuniting with some friends from long ago and spending time with my family and friends, taking in some short trips with my grandchildren, going to the cottage during the summer and doing some occasional work is how I spend most of my time. However, in December 2009, is when I became a fallen angel and cancer survivor for the first time, of two types of cancers. In 2011, once again, cancer survivor of another type cancer. And, in 2013, a recurrent cancer. This led me to, in 2010, become one of the first members of the Oldham Project. And, to also feel very fortunate to have been able to retire early and experience, most of the time, a more relaxing, schedule free time…. Every day is a good day.  [August 2, 2015]

Cindy A. Hosimer:  Cynthia Anne “Cindy” Hosimer, age 65, of Laingsburg, MI, passed away May 19, 2018. She was born June 22, 1952, in Battle Creek, MI, to Robert “Bob” and Patricia “Pat” Hosimer. At the age of 9, Cindy’s family moved to Lansing. She graduated from Everett High School, class of 1970, and graduated from MSU in 1974 with a degree in Education.

She was a caring and talented Art and English teacher at Perry Middle School and Perry High School for 30 years. Cindy inspired and unlocked the artistic talents in her students, to the surprise and delight of many of them! She had a gift for reaching out to, and helping students that were dealing with challenges in their lives. Cindy was always game for working with her colleagues on special projects that turned learning into exciting adventures. Her creative touch was always appreciated.  Even in retirement, Cindy was a volunteer in a reading project for kids at Shaftsburg Elementary School.

Cindy loved animals and had many cats, dogs, rabbits, and a pony named Rusty, over her lifetime. She had fond memories of being a Girl Scout with Troop 521. She bled green and loved her alma mater – MSU, and was a member of the Everett High School reunion committee.

Cindy was a Beatle fan her whole life and attended a Beatles concert in Detroit when she was 13. Tickets were $5! She was also a Kevin Costner fan.

Cindy was happiest in the home on the lake, where she enjoyed gardening and feeding the squirrels. Everyone who knew Cindy described her as the most giving, selfless, kindest person they had ever met.  She had a strong faith that never wavered and was a lifelong member of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Lansing.

She is survived by her mother, Pat Hosimer; brothers, Scott and Steve Hosimer; sister, Teresa Smith; uncles, Carl Benedetto and Roger (Shirley) Knapp; 3 nieces and 1 nephew; her “big red dog,” Rusty; and many dear friends. She was preceded in death by her father, Robert Hosimer; uncles, Jim and David Knapp; and aunts, Betty Smith, Mary Benedetto, and Curl Knapp.

Ricky (Hunter) Gregerson:

Now:  50+1 year later, my husband, Larry & I are living in Bend, Oregon.  We left Seattle area in 2015 to enjoy 300+ days of sunshine east of the Cascade mountains.  We’ve never been sorry for the decision and absolutely love Central Oregon.  

Then:  Upon graduation from high school and way too young, I married when I was 20 and had my daughter, Kelly at 22.  Not surprisingly, that marriage ended.  I worked for the House of Representatives in Michigan before moving to Indianapolis where Larry & I were married and started our lives together.  I had my second child, Rob in 1979.  We were transferred several times throughout Larry’s career with Ford Motor Company.  What started in Indianapolis took us to Dallas, Detroit, Philadelphia, Washington DC, Detroit (again), Cincinnati, Philadelphia (again), and then our final stop with Ford….Seattle.

Administrative work, and various college courses kept me searching for my life’s purpose. During our second stint in Philadelphia (we actually lived in southern NJ across the river from Philly), I decided it would be fun to own and operate a coffee house one day…..perhaps after Larry retired.  Larry wouldn’t hear of it…..”Why wait?…Do it now!’  So I did.  We bought a building in the middle of the quaint little town of Collingswood, NJ.  The Living Room, as I named it, was certainly a defining time in my life.  I learned how to oversee the renovations.  Found out that I actually could learn to like coffee and figured out it was es-presso not ex-presso.  Two years in and lots of hard work, but fun….we were transferred again and sold the building and the business.

My final adventure before we both fully retired was owning and operating a spiritual retreat center on our rural property an hour southeast of Seattle.  That truly was my heartbeat.  I was moved to become a Centering Prayer Presenter, a certified labyrinth facilitator and enrolled in a two year spiritual direction program.

So here we are…

What keeps me occupied these days?  I offer group Prayer & Contemplation, lead a group called Deep Listening (and spiritual conversation), and do one-on-one spiritual companioning.  I love the great outdoors and hike every day with our 3 year old Golden Retriever, Fynlee, kayak, snowshoe and x-country ski in the winter and we find our way around to the most amazing places to camp in the summer. 

Although I never became a grandmother, I live vicariously through all of you who share your photos on instagram and FB.  The good news is, we have lots of laughs and great times with our grown kids.

Life is good, yet not always easy.  I’m forever grateful for the journey with all its twists and turns.  [August 9, 2021]

Dorothy (Hurshman) McDonald:  I went to nursing school in Grand Rapids, MI right after graduation from high school. I graduated as a registered nurse in 1973 and moved to Detroit to work at Providence Hospital on the cardiac step down telemetry unit. I moved back to Lansing in 1976 and worked in orthopedics at Ingham Medical Center until 1981. I then moved to Alma, MI and have worked in long term care/ skilled care and short term rehab ever since, first as Assistant Director of Nursing then Director of Nursing at two facilities. I’ve been at my current job at Schnepp Senior Care & Rehab Center the past 26 years. Last year I was nominated for and won the National Nurse Administrator of the Year Award for the Central Region of the United States (there are 5 regions of 10 states each). I was very surprised (I had no idea I had been nominated) and deeply honored. My administrator sent me to Anaheim, CA to receive my award in person at the week long National Convocation for NADONA (National Association of Directors of Nursing Administration). It was the absolute highlight of my nursing career!

My husband and I have known each other for 38 years and have been married for 34 years. He has been an attorney in Alma for 36 years and for the past 7 years, the District Judge for Gratiot County. I have two wonderful children, a son who has blessed me with 3 beautiful granddaughters and a daughter who has blessed me with a handsome grandson. My parents have both passed away 7 & 9 years ago.

I enjoy my family and friends, reading, needlework, movies and long walks in my free time. I am still working full time and do not have plans for cutting back or retirement (as long as my health holds out) until 2017.   [September 9, 2015]

Laurena (Jenkins) Hoffmeyer:  After working at MSU for 32 years, I retired in March 2007. Although I’ve been a certified scuba diver since 1995, and really enjoy being around warm water, my back has traded in the 40 pound tanks and 15 pounds of weights for snorkeling. I never say never, but the bones aren’t getting any younger. People often ask what I find to do with “all this time on my hands”. Photography is my #1 hobby, particularly wildlife. When I’m home, some days it’s hard to get chores done with the distractions by deer, squirrels and birds. My greatest pleasure has been being able to photograph the amazing animals in Kenya and Tanzania. Every visit has been different and capturing the expressions on animals that are truly wild is profound. I have 7 adopted elephant orphans (only one of which is currently at the nursery run by the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust) in Nairobi. The other six have been rehabilitated and have now returned to the wild. The people in this country are so warm and hospitable and I’m glad to have made new friendships.  In 2023 I participated in a photography workshop in Alaska, led by a National Geographic photographer. Our 7 trip participants stayed on board a 90 foot yacht where, with special permits, we were able to remain in Glacier Bay and have many opportunities to photograph humpback whales, puffins, sea otters and numerous glaciers.

Husband Bruce (of 40 years) prefers not to travel to anywhere that requires that many inoculations. He retired in 2016. With our last remaining cockatiel and collie having passed, the house is quieter.  We spend a lot of summer weekends at our getaway at Sandy Pines on the west side of the state. In addition to photography (and I justify the amount of time because I create cards, stationery and books from the images), gardening, maintaining my website (laurenajenkinshoffmeyer.com), scrapbooking, and jewelry making, I also maintain the Everett Class of 1970 Facebook page, am Co-Chair of the Savvy Seniors Social Group (as well as maintain their Facebook page) and also volunteer for at the Capital Region International Airport. “All this time on my hands” passes very quickly.   [July 9, 2024]

Gregory Kelley passed away August 27, 2015. Gregory attended Friendship Baptits Church in Lansing. After graduation from Everett High School, He received a BA in Journalism from MSU, followed by a Masters degree in Public Administration from Western Michigan University. Gregory lived and worked as a Journalist in various cities and states before returning to Michigan where he accepted a position with the Michigan Department of Corrections as a Corrections Officer where he attained the rank of Captain before he retired in December, 2010. Gregory was a well known community activist as well as an avid supporter of young people and education. He was the founder and editor of the Michigan Bulletin newspaper. He volunteered his time with several organizations such as Black Men Incorporated of Greater Lansing, where he served as former President, Black Child and Family Initiative, and the local Spelling Bee Contest. He loved life and his family, was a jokester with a very ready and infectious laugh and was a diehard Spartan fan. Photography was his hobby and his passion and he was rarely seen without his camera, always recording significant events. He leaves to cherish his memory: his father, Albert Kelley Sr.; brothers, Albert (Barbara) Kelley Jr., Darrell (Hazel) Kelley, and Marcus (Carol) Kelley; sisters, Verlecia (Kenneth) Johnson and Tequila (Michael) Roby; uncles, Louis (Priscilla) Stokes; long time friend, Jean Chappel; and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. [information from Lansing State Journal]

Nicholas (Nick) Gallmeister-Krilis passed away June 12, 1980 while co-piloting a commercial aircraft. He worked as a pilot for Air Wisconsin two months prior to his death. Nick was raised in Lansing and graduated from Everett where he won a varsity letter in swimming, as well as a disc jockey, choir member and had a role in the senior play. He attended Lansing Community College and San Jose State College in California. He had ground flight training in Oxford, England, and had flown for various airlines including Pan American and Olympic Airlines. Some years ago, he made a cross-country flight in a single-engine plane. Also active in his church, Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox, he was president of the youth group. Nick lived in Appleton, Wisconsin with his wife, Laura whom he married 2 months before his death. His internment is in Deepdale Memorial Park. [information from Lansing State Journal]

David Scott MacLachlan passed away on December 17, 2000. He worked for Peckham Vocational Industries for 13 years. He leaves his mother; brother, Kevin MacLachlan (Eve); his sister, Heather MacLachlan (Bruce Roth). [information from Lansing State Journal]

Marjorie (Martin) Martin:  I took the summer off after I graduated….to plan my wedding and the next step in life. Dennis joined the Marines and was scheduled to leave for California the first part of December….SO, we could wait until after his basic training to get married or marry before he went in. Before won out, so we got married on November 7, 1970 and he went to basic training on December 8th. I started working at Kwast Bakeries on my 18th birthday in September. I worked there until March then my Mom opened her own Beauty Shop so I decided to go to Cosmetology School.

Dennis came home in June for a couple of weeks then went to Okinawa for 13 months. I went to work at a couple of shops…then I filled in at my mom’s shop and stayed on….Mom passed in 1988 and I took over. In 1990, they sold the building and I had to move. I found out that I was expecting the same day. So, I went to work for someone else for 3 years and looked around for something else to do.

A friend of mine was doing “Home Care” for Sparrow and I had the time to check it out and it turned out to be a good fit. I worked for 4 years there and I loved it but by this time 1997-98, Dennis was having lots of health problems and had to retire. We had no health insurance so I started checking into what was open at Sparrow Hospital. It took about 6 months to find an opening, do the application, interview etc. and I finally started working in March 1998. I started on the first and my dad passed on the 13th. My husband Dennis (Everett Class of 1970) passed away November 25, 2002.

I worked at Sparrow Hospital for 14 years, on a surgical floor as housekeeper then as a Tech. Then down in Recovery as a Tech. I retired in 2012….and enjoy it very much. I read a lot and do a couple games on FB. I knit, crochet and sew. I like to camp and hunt and fish and canoe. I like crosswords and Suduku. And there is all the housework, laundry, shopping stuff. My sister and I went to Las Vegas last summer and had a great time.

P.S….that little bundle of joy I was carrying at our 20 reunion is now 24 years old. He is the light of my life. We have been through a heck of a lot…good times and bad but he has turned out to be a really nice man.  [July 30, 2015]

Jo Ann McLellan Schaaf passed away on October 20, 2006. Jo married Eric Schaaf in 1994 and was a loving wife, mother, grandma, sister, aunt and friend. She was a hair stylist who enjoyed putting color, cut, curl and laughter into her clients lives at Serenity Salon in Holt. She enjoyed quilting as well as many activities with her family and friends. She is survived by her husband, Eric; children, Lucas (Melissa) Lundberg, Donald and Jolie Lundberg; two adoring granddaughters Arianna Louden and Aliyah Villegas; sisters and brothers, Chris (Tom) Kintigh, Bill (Ardis) McLellan, Tom (Claudia) McLellan, Wende (Bob) Fowler, and Pam (Jerry) Mellen. [information from Lansing State Journal]

George Steven “Steve” Mitchell:  After graduating, I enlisted in the USAF, November 11, 1970-1972, drummer for traveling rock bands (Snapper, then Warp Drive) until 1976, also married in 1976 to Marsha Kosht (currently almost 39 yrs) and hired into Dart Container in Mason (Maintenance Supervisor and Technical Training Coordinator).  After 38 years, I retired March 1, 2014.  Currently playing in an awesome classic rock band (WiseGuys) playing in clubs all over, at weddings, class reunions, etc.  Having a ball!  Three children Kelli, Sam and Stevie Lee.  3 grandchildren with 2 more due before the reunion.  Contact email is: dartlifer@gmail.com  [March 30, 2015]

Sherri (Nixon) Stewart:  My husband and I live in Celebration, Florida, a small town that Disney built.  I teach French at the local high school.  Bobby retired after 38 years with the National Hockey League.  He was an equipment manager for many teams, and was inducted this year into the NHL Hall of Fame.  I have a new hobby-writing suspense novels.  At the point of this post, I’m pitching my latest book to agents.  I’ve discovered that writing a book is easier than publishing a book.  I plan on retiring in two years; then I hope my writing career will take off.  The most important thing in my life is God, at least I want Him to be the most important thing.  The issues that I’m most passionate about are immigration (I do pro bono work for a law firm) and am also involved with organizations that rescue girls from human trafficking.  My son Joshua, who loves being single, so there’s little hope of grandchildren, works at Disney, and gives me free passes.  I go often, just to walk.  The older I get, the more I appreciate coming home to Lansing.  I’ve never been to a reunion because of my work, but one of these days, I’ll make it to one.  [April 21, 2015]

Ed Owens:  After graduating from Everett, I attended Michigan State University and then completed a master’s degree from The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.  I have served churches in Kentucky and Virginia.  In 1983 I returned to Lansing to serve as pastor of the Olivet Baptist Church.  I continue to serve that congregation.  I have also served 17 years as a police chaplain for the Lansing Police Department.  I am married to Sherry.  We have four grown children.  Sherry is a registered nurse at McLaren Hospital in Lansing.  My interests outside of work and family include bicycle touring, sports and gardening.  Contact email is: pastored@obclansing.org  [April 1, 2015]

Christine (Potter) Kobylinski:  Since graduation, I’ve lived in Eaton Rapids and Lansing. I retired from Eaton Rapids Public Schools with thirty years of service.

I married Julian Kobylinski and have five children. Each continued their education and we are very proud. We also have nine grandchildren and they are the joy of our life.

We enjoy traveling, watching sporting events, especially our Spartans and Tigers! I also enjoy sewing and going to the YMCA.   [August 31, 2015]

David Prescott passed away on February 9, 2016.  Dave always left people happier than he found them.  He didn’t go anywhere before marrying the love of his life, walking his three beautiful daughters down the aisle and teaching his grandchildren how to put a worm on a hook.  As Dave would put it, he did everything he was here to do.  He was raised in Lansing and graduated from Everett High School and Ferris State University.  He married Lisa Marie Rice on June 3, 1978.  Together they raised three daughters, Kelly, Kacey and Kristy.  Since 2000, they have owned and operated Prescott’s Cone Zone in Owosso.  Dave retired from the State of Michigan, where he worked as an account representative with the Michigan Lottery.  He seemed to know every gas station clerk and liquor store owner from here to Saginaw.  He loved making friends, spreading job and cracking jokes.  He loved watching MSU play football.  He loved playing with his daughters after school and later on, giving them rides home from the bar. He loved a glass of Scotch with friends, good conversation and some Clapton on the stereo.  Most of all, Dave loved his family.  No matter how much we loved Dave, he seemed to always love us more.  He had a good run.  Dave is survived by his wife, Lisa; his daughters, elly (Kurt) Kline, Kacey (James) Kurrle and Kristy (Blake) Thorne; grandchildren, Zach, Carter, Dylan and Macey; his sister, Dee Ann and his nieces and nephews. [information from Nelson House Funeral Home, Owosso]

Rick Rees: [see Katie Dyer Rees] [August 10, 2015]

Randy Richardson [see Gayle Bauer Richardson]  [July 21, 2015]

Mark E. Ritter passed away on August 25, 2006. After graduation from Everett, he attended MSU and obtained a Master’s degree in Computer Science. He had been employed at IBM for 30 years, where he traveled extensively, and was very respected by his peers. His involvement with the Boy Scouts of America took up a great deal of his spare time. He began in scouting in his youth, achieving the level of Eagle Scout, and it had been his love all of his life. [information from Lansing State Journal]

Claudia Carol (Robbins) Beasore:  As most of you know I live in Tennessee now, just about an hour from Nashville. Been married to hubby, Ken, since 1977. Retired several years ago after an automobile accident messed up my back. Through the years, I’ve had my ups and downs, but now at 63 years of age I am planning on coasting the rest of the way Home.   [September 12, 2015]

Marion (Scieszka) Cornett and Doug Cornett:  We haven been married 18 years, after a break of 25 years from going steady in high school, marrying other mates, and then finding each other again.  Between them, they have five children and six grandchildren, working every angle to spend as much time with the grandchildren as possible.  Doug is soon to retire from GM after a career that has spanned 38 years and Marion is planning to semi-retire from her company, m.c. design, inc. (embroidery), so they can travel across the country to see family and friends, and also spend more time in their hobbies/passions.  They both have been a part of the motorcycle roadracing community for years, with this last year finding Doug winning three class championships.  Marion hopes to devote more time to writing, already having had one novel published, Juniper and Anise, with hopes of continuing that trend.  [September 13, 2015]

Gayle (Sheathelm) Stull and Chuck Stull:  Well let’s see where to begin. As many of you know, Chuck & I went together in high school and then broke up and didn’t see each other for 10 years. We met again at the 10 year class reunion and 6 months later we were married. We both had been married and divorced and had children. Chuck has a son Steven who is 39 and lives in California with 4 children. He has a daughter who is 41 and lives in Kalamazoo and has 2 boys. She just remarried and now has 2 little girls also. I have a 40 year old daughter that lives in Sheridan Michigan. She has 3 children and has a step-daughter. Chuck and I adopted a boy when he was 3 months old and he lives in Colorado with his wife and daughter. They are planning on moving to Michigan very soon and I can’t wait. So that makes 4 children and 12 grand children and we also have a year old great granddaughter Serenity who is a joy every day.

Chuck was in the army all of our married life and was deployed in 2006 and shortly after coming home decided it was time to get out after 33 years. In 2010 he also retired from the sheriff’s department after 32 years. I left my job in 2007 at a party store after 10 there and 10 years at a different one before that so that I could spend time with Chuck on his days off. When he left his job in 2010 we decided it was time for us as we have had children since the day we were married and so we do a lot of traveling and just doing what we want, when we want. We go to visit the boys a lot in California and Colorado. We love Colorado and would love to go back and spend some time there.

We are both very busy with our church as Chuck is head trustee and I run the food pantry there which I have done for over 25 years. So there are times it is very hard to get away but we do as often as we can. We go to Florida in the winter and spend time with my 92 year old father. We still live on Clifford Lake in Stanton, Michigan and we love it.

Just can’t believe how fast time has gone by as we get together for our 45th class reunion…..it has been fun meeting up with the girls at Corey’s for lunch & I can’t wait to see everyone as we celebrate 45 years with old friends, new friends and classmates.  [August 18, 2015]

Chuck Stull [see Gayle Sheathelm Stull]  [August 18, 2015]

Nancy Lou (Swain) Jenks: passed away September 28, 2012, with her children by her side in Lansing, Michigan after courageously battling cancer for 6 months. Her interests included family, gardening sewing/quilting, painting and baking. She worked for GM for 31 years. She is survived by her father, Clair Swain; children, Jennifer (Todd) Goulding, Bryan (Kari) Jenks and Rebeca (Chad) Every; grandchildren, Austin Evan, Tyler, Braden, Jacob, Noah, Logan, Chloe, Andrew, Tyler and Keley; her sister, Ruth Ann (Bob) McKenan; brothers Steven Swain and David (Kathern) Swain; and several nieces and nephews. [information from Lansing State Journal]

Jackie Lee Wade of Lansing passed away December 30, 2014 in Martin, TN. He graduated from Everett High School and LCC. He retired from USPS and Motor Wheel. Jackie loved people. When he introduced himself, he said, “I’m Jackie Lee from Tennessee.” Once he met you, you had a friend for life. He was proud of his Cherokee heritage. He mentored many who continue to hold his wisdom in their hearts. He is survived by the love of his life and wife, Tonja Lee; his pride, joy and only son Shad Wade; Shad’s mother, Linda Stiver; adopted son, Cody Clower; three brothers, Tim (Dee), Robert (Cathy), and James (Dawn); many nieces , nephews, and friends. [information from Lansing State Journal]

Jenny Wilson Reeves passed away October 29, 2002. She worked as a Veteran Workman’s Compensation Claims Adjuster for over 15 years. She loved photography and bowling, and she enjoyed American Indian Culture, and also liked all types of dancing. Jenny was everyone’s spiritual supporter, and was always there for everyone. Surviving are her 3 children, Jason Reeves, Joshua (Jessica Gillett) Reeves, and Jodi Reeves; 2 grandchildren, Jessica and Jeremy Reeves; special friend, Roger Lentz.  [information from Lansing State Journal]