Class Note 1938
Issue
September-October 2020
Once upon a time, in the year 1933, a young traveler found his way to the Kingdom of Hanover in New Hampshire—he was coming for a short visit, a minimum of four years. It was a new experience for this journeyman that, eventually, became the first mile in a lifelong experience. This young man had no idea where the next approximately 85 years would take him, but I’m sure he knew that this was just the beginning of an experience that would be with him forever. It is now 2020, and this man of the world has turned 104 years, a milestone to be celebrated—and celebrated it was, in fine style. This gentleman of Dartmouth is Fred Klein ’37, the most senior resident of Saddlebrooke, Arizona. Fred truly enjoyed the huge parade that passed his house on the morning of April 25—it was reportedly one of the most memorable birthdays of his life.
“Organized by his fellow swimmers from the Saddlebrooke Swim Club with a lot of help from many other service groups, Fred saw more than 220 vehicles pass his house. More than 150 birthday cards were dropped in a basket along with balloons, signs, and even a roll of toilet paper! Someone even left a book from Dartmouth with a letter in it written by the president congratulating Fred on reaching 104. Due to social distancing guidelines in effect, only golf carts and cars could participate in the parade, which was led by Golder Ranch Fire District in its firetruck. When it passed by, Fred proudly stood at attention, saluting our first responders. He saluted the firefighter, who, in turn, saluted the WW II veteran. It was a party, all done with social distancing, and one truly deserved of the occasion.”
I received notification of the event mentioned above from Philip Serlin ’60, M.D., who adds, “I hope you can recognize and mention Fred, a neighbor. More than 250 people feted him—much fun!” Certainly this marvelous event had to be mentioned and recognized. Many happy birthday wishes are sent to Fred from the class of ’38. Thank you, Dr. Serlin, for contacting me.
The class of ’38 is always with me and, as usual, holds a very special place in my heart. Stay healthy and follow the rules!
—Jean M. Francis, 2205 Boston Road, O-139, Wilbraham, MA 01095; jmfcarmel@charter.net
“Organized by his fellow swimmers from the Saddlebrooke Swim Club with a lot of help from many other service groups, Fred saw more than 220 vehicles pass his house. More than 150 birthday cards were dropped in a basket along with balloons, signs, and even a roll of toilet paper! Someone even left a book from Dartmouth with a letter in it written by the president congratulating Fred on reaching 104. Due to social distancing guidelines in effect, only golf carts and cars could participate in the parade, which was led by Golder Ranch Fire District in its firetruck. When it passed by, Fred proudly stood at attention, saluting our first responders. He saluted the firefighter, who, in turn, saluted the WW II veteran. It was a party, all done with social distancing, and one truly deserved of the occasion.”
I received notification of the event mentioned above from Philip Serlin ’60, M.D., who adds, “I hope you can recognize and mention Fred, a neighbor. More than 250 people feted him—much fun!” Certainly this marvelous event had to be mentioned and recognized. Many happy birthday wishes are sent to Fred from the class of ’38. Thank you, Dr. Serlin, for contacting me.
The class of ’38 is always with me and, as usual, holds a very special place in my heart. Stay healthy and follow the rules!
—Jean M. Francis, 2205 Boston Road, O-139, Wilbraham, MA 01095; jmfcarmel@charter.net