Class Note 1956

I received a very lovely card from Libby and “Boodge” Erwin filled with news about their life in Hudson, Ohio, during the current pandemic and also including news about Dartmouth classmates. If more members of the class sent me half as much news, my job of class secretary would be a lot easier. Please send cards and letters filled with information—even one interesting item would be much appreciated.

Now for news about the Erwins: Libby writes, “We are tired of our long, cold, snowy days and staying at home because of the virus. We recently had our semi-yearly appointment with our GP and had to wear masks and rubber gloves. Several other appointments were simply canceled. I go shopping for two weeks at a time because I like to pick out my own fruits and meats etc. so pickup arrangements are not for us. We both feel that our governor, Mike DeWine, is a gem and we listen to him Monday through Friday to get all the latest updates.”

Now for the sad news. I received notices from the College of the passing of three classmates and word from the Erwins of the passing of one other: The College notices include William J. Hamilton, Myron H. Luria,M.D., and Philip P. Patrick.Inaddition, the Erwins sent me an obituary clipping from the Cleveland Plain Dealer indicating that Preston V. Pumphrey passed away after an eight-year battle with Parkinson’s disease. Preston was the vice president of our class freshman year. These four classmates follow the Barbary Coast jazz band as it plays a mournful tune and marches up Main Street. They then march three times around the Green as we, the living, all bow our heads in silent tribute.

I close with the 12th stanza of my poem titled “A Remembrance of Things Past.”

Reunion’s a time to see friends,

Hoping the day never ends;

Nostalgia and fun,

Laughs one by one,

And a true Dartmouth spirit transcends.

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