Until recently, I have been reporting two to four classmates passing on. Then, in my last report in December 2019, I sadly reported eight deaths. Now once again I have to report on eight deaths. However, I will not begin this submission with such a downer. Instead, I will report on all the recent contacts I have had with classmates—contacts that show that these folks are still alive and kicking. This includes telephone conversations with Bill Loyer, Phil and Sandra Hinkle, Al and Diane Friedman, Elliott and Alice Weinstein, and Harry Nutting. In addition, I have had written contacts from Mike and Margie Grunebaum, Jack Crowley, Tom Bechler, Tony Carleton, Karen Merrels, Hugh and Lizzie Erwin, and Kevin and Sue Ryan. It is good to know that all of these folks are still with us and we hope we may get to see them at an upcoming class get-together

Now for the sad news. I received notices from the College of the passing of five classmates and word from classmates of the passing of three others: Steve G. Chontos, David H. Dolben, Roger B. Griffin, David E. Klein, M.D., and Dean E. Sheldon Jr. Inaddition, Di Zock reported that Richard Zock passed away of a heart attack, Jack Crowley reported that John L. Wanamaker died suddenly, and Harry Nutting called to let me know that Dave Stackpole passed on. These eight classmates follow the Barbary Coast jazz band as it plays a mournful tune and marches up Main Street led by Samson Occom dressed in buckskins. As they march three times around the Green, we, the living, all bow our heads in silent tribute.

I encourage all classmates that remain vertical to attend Homecoming or our upcoming reunion.

I close with the second stanza of my poem titled “Classmates Forever.”

Faint echoes of library bells,

Winter scenes casting North Country spells;

Feet crunching on snow,

Along paths long ago,

Deep inside the experience dwells.

—Joel D. Ash, P.O. Box 1733, Grantham, NH 03753; (603) 863-3360; jash_125@comcast.net