15 classmates gather for Fargo luncheon!

(L-R) Back row: Denny Gillund, Larry Gauper, Russ Schroeder, Doug Peterson, Tom Kahler, Lee Sampson, Dave Maasjo, Gary Swenson  - Front row: Emily Schroeder (Russ's wife), Judy (Scully) Manley, Judy Peterson (Doug's wife), Carolyn (Eggert) Sampson (Lee's wife) , Marleen (Miller) Pytlik, Bob Nestoss, Claire Swenson (Gary's wife) - Click on picture for larger image

Despite a number of unexpected last-minute events that caused some classmates to miss our first-ever Fargo Hiliners61 luncheon, fifteen of us showed-up and, according to initial reports, a great time was had by all. Certainly, there was plenty of conversation!

Some of the classmates who attended had not been together for a long, long time. For example, I hadn't seen Russ Schroeder since high school graduation and I was happy to meet Emily for the first time. Hadn't seen Lee Sampson and spouse, Carolyn (Eggert) Sampson, since our days at Valley High.

Was also fun to see our class's Irish lass, Judy (Scully) Manley, again and was pleased that Judy Peterson, Doug's wife, accompanied him on this luncheon visit. Judy is now retired from a career of teaching dental hygiene at the North Dakota State School of Science in Wahpeton and I, for one, have been served by a number of dental hygienists who were well-taught their skills by "Mrs. Peterson."

Denny Gillund and Tom Kahler arrived together - Denny and his spouse, the former Barbara Rome - spend much of the summers at a nearby Minnesota lake cabin, coming north from their home in Apple Valley, Minn., a Twin Cities suburb. Tom and I have been enjoying coffee and conversation every Wednesday morning. I told the group we "talk about everybody who isn't there." All complimentary, of course.

Gary Swenson and his spouse, Claire, have become "regulars" at our luncheon and it's always fun to see them. Gary recounted some experiences from his Navy life and his metal cutting work. Dave Maasjo told us about his "hobby tractors." He rebuilds old tractors like Stan Orness revitalizes classic cars.

And Marleen (Miller) Pytlik brought along a supply of Hiliners61 mugs that were left over from the 50th reunion and they were quickly grabbed-up by classmates who could use an extra and very classic souvenir mug, originally presented to classmates by Barbara (Sheppard) Lang. Thanks, again, Barb!

Also joining us for this luncheon was Bob Nestoss, retired from 32 years with t the Veterans Administration. He lives with his wife, Connie, in Fargo. Bob's son and his wife have presented the proud grandparents with three beautiful grand daughters. It was fun to see him at our Fargo luncheon!

No plans were made for an April luncheon. Some suggested going "every other month." We'll wait to hear what our chairperson, Barb Lang says on this subject.

Thanks to everyone who stopped by - the Holiday Inn did a super job with our luncheon choices. - Larry Gauper 3-26-2015