Archived Newletters
Your Reunion Newsletter
Vol. #4 – November 2015
Countdown to Reunion: 23 months
Vol. #4 – November 2015
Countdown to Reunion: 23 months
6 Reasons Why People Don’t Attend HS Reunions
1. Health: I would like to attend, but my health just won’t allow it.
Our thoughts: Sorry you won’t be able to attend and hope your health improves. And, while there will be photos to see and possibly a DVD of the Golden Dinner Dance to view later, you might still be able to be there other than in spirit: FaceTime with classmates over the Reunion weekend or observe through the magic of Skype. You’ll be missed!
2. Wealth: Unfortunately, the cost of attending the Reunion will be too much a strain on my budget.
Our thoughts: Hopefully, your situation will improve and there are two years yet to save. You might consider attending alone if your spouse or partner would just as soon stay home. If you don’t live too far away, maybe enjoying the sights while driving rather than flying could be an option. Perhaps some form of confidential financial assistance will become available through the Committee, if generous classmates donate. Local classmates might also volunteer to open their homes for you to stay during the Reunion weekend, and still others might elect to sponsor a classmate by picking up the tab to the Sunday picnic. Of course, we would rather you attend just a couple of weekend events, rather than not participate at all.
3. Satisfaction: I see a few classmate friends from time to time and I call, email or connect with others through Facebook. I’m satisfied with that, so why go to a Reunion to see people I don’t know or like?
Our thoughts: People who attend 50th HS Reunions are surprised how much they enjoy getting to know classmates who were outside their primary circle of HS friends. You might even find that those people you didn’t like are very different people today.
There is only one place where you can make “new” friends who grew up in the 60s, experienced what you did, and can laugh and cry about things you share!
4. Separation: I haven’t seen any classmates for a long time. I’m not the same person anymore and doubt we have much in common any longer. I might not even be recognized.
Our thoughts: We urge you to reach out to classmates before the Reunion. We’ve all changed and generally for the best. The 50th promises to be a wonderful time to reconnect; you’ll enjoy the nostalgic atmosphere and old friends will help you recall shared experiences, both good and bad! If you miss the Reunion, fewer good times will be remembered, fewer laughs will be heard. Join the rest of us who will also be staring at nametags (not to worry, we’ll make them with big bold letters). You’ll find that we have more in common today than you think!
5. Isolation: For me, HS was social isolation. I felt alone. The best day of HS was the last day. My HS experience is something I don’t wish to relive; it was often painful. Now I look to the future, not back.
,
Our thoughts: HS years were an awkward period and most felt lost, at times, or rejected. It wasn’t all fun & games for anyone. By attending, this could be an opportunity to show that you survived a difficult time in your life: here I am - living proof! For some it is a chance for closure, to make peace, to give and accept apology. Attend for a few hours, if only to celebrate your current life, devoid of pettiness and drama that was sometimes part of growing up at Pascack.
6. Competition: Reunions are for people to flaunt their success, brag about important jobs, big houses, world travel, and make others feel envious.
Our thoughts: The 10th 20th and even 35th Reunions were sometimes a stage for those types. By the 40th Reunion, most classmates were not so easily impressed. Not many of us lived the life we expected, but we know now what being “rich” really means: enjoying life with family and friends, being needed and respected, giving and receiving love. None of us has escaped tragedy, heartbreak, and loss of people we’ve loved. We are more alike now, than different, and those still in competition will find an audience difficult to find in October 2017.
Comments? Email John Markert at: jjmarkert@gmail.com
Catch the Reunion Spirit…it’s Golden!1. Health: I would like to attend, but my health just won’t allow it.
Our thoughts: Sorry you won’t be able to attend and hope your health improves. And, while there will be photos to see and possibly a DVD of the Golden Dinner Dance to view later, you might still be able to be there other than in spirit: FaceTime with classmates over the Reunion weekend or observe through the magic of Skype. You’ll be missed!
2. Wealth: Unfortunately, the cost of attending the Reunion will be too much a strain on my budget.
Our thoughts: Hopefully, your situation will improve and there are two years yet to save. You might consider attending alone if your spouse or partner would just as soon stay home. If you don’t live too far away, maybe enjoying the sights while driving rather than flying could be an option. Perhaps some form of confidential financial assistance will become available through the Committee, if generous classmates donate. Local classmates might also volunteer to open their homes for you to stay during the Reunion weekend, and still others might elect to sponsor a classmate by picking up the tab to the Sunday picnic. Of course, we would rather you attend just a couple of weekend events, rather than not participate at all.
3. Satisfaction: I see a few classmate friends from time to time and I call, email or connect with others through Facebook. I’m satisfied with that, so why go to a Reunion to see people I don’t know or like?
Our thoughts: People who attend 50th HS Reunions are surprised how much they enjoy getting to know classmates who were outside their primary circle of HS friends. You might even find that those people you didn’t like are very different people today.
There is only one place where you can make “new” friends who grew up in the 60s, experienced what you did, and can laugh and cry about things you share!
4. Separation: I haven’t seen any classmates for a long time. I’m not the same person anymore and doubt we have much in common any longer. I might not even be recognized.
Our thoughts: We urge you to reach out to classmates before the Reunion. We’ve all changed and generally for the best. The 50th promises to be a wonderful time to reconnect; you’ll enjoy the nostalgic atmosphere and old friends will help you recall shared experiences, both good and bad! If you miss the Reunion, fewer good times will be remembered, fewer laughs will be heard. Join the rest of us who will also be staring at nametags (not to worry, we’ll make them with big bold letters). You’ll find that we have more in common today than you think!
5. Isolation: For me, HS was social isolation. I felt alone. The best day of HS was the last day. My HS experience is something I don’t wish to relive; it was often painful. Now I look to the future, not back.
,
Our thoughts: HS years were an awkward period and most felt lost, at times, or rejected. It wasn’t all fun & games for anyone. By attending, this could be an opportunity to show that you survived a difficult time in your life: here I am - living proof! For some it is a chance for closure, to make peace, to give and accept apology. Attend for a few hours, if only to celebrate your current life, devoid of pettiness and drama that was sometimes part of growing up at Pascack.
6. Competition: Reunions are for people to flaunt their success, brag about important jobs, big houses, world travel, and make others feel envious.
Our thoughts: The 10th 20th and even 35th Reunions were sometimes a stage for those types. By the 40th Reunion, most classmates were not so easily impressed. Not many of us lived the life we expected, but we know now what being “rich” really means: enjoying life with family and friends, being needed and respected, giving and receiving love. None of us has escaped tragedy, heartbreak, and loss of people we’ve loved. We are more alike now, than different, and those still in competition will find an audience difficult to find in October 2017.
Comments? Email John Markert at: jjmarkert@gmail.com
Bulletin 67:
Latest News & Announcements
NEW – October 1, 2015
As some of you already know, Ted Blumenberg, PV Phys Ed teacher, coach and driving instructor, passed away 9/26/15 at age 76, surrounded by his loving family. Funeral services were held on 10/1/15 in Park Ridge, where he also lived. Ted was a much loved wrestling & track coach, the school’s first soccer coach, and eventually Director of Athletics before he retired. His full obituary can be found at:
www.legacy.com/obituaries/northjersey/obituary.aspx?n=theodore-blumenberg&pid=175962628&fhid=17136#sthash.MF12jgJK.dpuf
NEW – Survey still open until 11/11/15
If you haven’t taken the Reunion Attendance Survey, there is still time! Join the 40% of Classmates who took just 3-4 minutes to complete the 10 question Survey. Link to Survey Monkey at: www.surveymonkey.com/r/2h3gv56
NEW - September 28, 2015
Another fun filled gathering of classmates & spouses, ended with River Vale besting Hillsdale to win the Pisarri Cup, in Myrtle Beach. This annual event, held in memory of Bill “Duke” Getler, has evolved into more than a golfing event, as the Duke intended. The wet weather didn’t dampen enthusiasm for golf, indoor games, the hilarious Lip Sync Battle, or story telling. Email: jjmarkert@gmailcom for more information. The Welcome Mat is always out!
NEW - Reunion 2017 Club Needs Members
Your Reunion Committee relies on nominal contributions from classmates to help defray the cost of maintaining the Reunion Website and postage to reach classmates that can only be contacted by snail mail. Your check for $20.17 would be most appreciated!! Go to www.pascack67.myevent.com for details.
August 21, 2015
Introducing “Bulletin 67” to keep you up-to-date on Reunion News and Announcements about your classmates. It features a run-on format with the latest update always on top.
Your Reunion Newsletter will continue to be published periodically with the same unabashed objective: entice you to attend your 50th Class Reunion scheduled the weekend of October 6 - 8, 2017
August 18, 2015
The key objective of the Reunion Committee Meeting held at PHHS on August 15th and Chaired by Tom Pisarri, was to complete evaluation of local restaurants & hotels and select a venue for our Gala Reunion Dinner & Dance to be held on Saturday evening October 7, 2017.
Within Days of the meeting, the Venue Task Team, lead by Linda (Meyer) Verdicchio, recommended the Marriott Hotel in Park Ridge NJ as the site for our dinner & dance. This gorgeous venue satisfies the Committee’s objectives for an upscale affordable location with hotel to accommodate out-of-town classmates attending the Reunion. We expect to reserve a block of rooms at reduced prices.
A YES-NO-MAYBE Reunion Attendance Survey will be emailed to you within 2 weeks. The Committee needs to firm-up it’s attendance estimate in order to complete negotiations with the Marriott and to better plan other weekend events, like the Sunday BBQ picnic. A tentative Schedule-of-Events and price ranges will be included with the Survey.
Completing the survey promptly will help the Committee maintain it’s planning momentum. Results of the survey will be shared later so you know who will attend. Everyone who completes the survey will be entered in a raffle to win one free ticket to the Sunday picnic. It just might be you!
Latest News & Announcements
NEW – October 1, 2015
As some of you already know, Ted Blumenberg, PV Phys Ed teacher, coach and driving instructor, passed away 9/26/15 at age 76, surrounded by his loving family. Funeral services were held on 10/1/15 in Park Ridge, where he also lived. Ted was a much loved wrestling & track coach, the school’s first soccer coach, and eventually Director of Athletics before he retired. His full obituary can be found at:
www.legacy.com/obituaries/northjersey/obituary.aspx?n=theodore-blumenberg&pid=175962628&fhid=17136#sthash.MF12jgJK.dpuf
NEW – Survey still open until 11/11/15
If you haven’t taken the Reunion Attendance Survey, there is still time! Join the 40% of Classmates who took just 3-4 minutes to complete the 10 question Survey. Link to Survey Monkey at: www.surveymonkey.com/r/2h3gv56
NEW - September 28, 2015
Another fun filled gathering of classmates & spouses, ended with River Vale besting Hillsdale to win the Pisarri Cup, in Myrtle Beach. This annual event, held in memory of Bill “Duke” Getler, has evolved into more than a golfing event, as the Duke intended. The wet weather didn’t dampen enthusiasm for golf, indoor games, the hilarious Lip Sync Battle, or story telling. Email: jjmarkert@gmailcom for more information. The Welcome Mat is always out!
NEW - Reunion 2017 Club Needs Members
Your Reunion Committee relies on nominal contributions from classmates to help defray the cost of maintaining the Reunion Website and postage to reach classmates that can only be contacted by snail mail. Your check for $20.17 would be most appreciated!! Go to www.pascack67.myevent.com for details.
August 21, 2015
Introducing “Bulletin 67” to keep you up-to-date on Reunion News and Announcements about your classmates. It features a run-on format with the latest update always on top.
Your Reunion Newsletter will continue to be published periodically with the same unabashed objective: entice you to attend your 50th Class Reunion scheduled the weekend of October 6 - 8, 2017
August 18, 2015
The key objective of the Reunion Committee Meeting held at PHHS on August 15th and Chaired by Tom Pisarri, was to complete evaluation of local restaurants & hotels and select a venue for our Gala Reunion Dinner & Dance to be held on Saturday evening October 7, 2017.
Within Days of the meeting, the Venue Task Team, lead by Linda (Meyer) Verdicchio, recommended the Marriott Hotel in Park Ridge NJ as the site for our dinner & dance. This gorgeous venue satisfies the Committee’s objectives for an upscale affordable location with hotel to accommodate out-of-town classmates attending the Reunion. We expect to reserve a block of rooms at reduced prices.
A YES-NO-MAYBE Reunion Attendance Survey will be emailed to you within 2 weeks. The Committee needs to firm-up it’s attendance estimate in order to complete negotiations with the Marriott and to better plan other weekend events, like the Sunday BBQ picnic. A tentative Schedule-of-Events and price ranges will be included with the Survey.
Completing the survey promptly will help the Committee maintain it’s planning momentum. Results of the survey will be shared later so you know who will attend. Everyone who completes the survey will be entered in a raffle to win one free ticket to the Sunday picnic. It just might be you!
Bulletin 67
Latest News & Announcements
August 21, 2015
Introducing “Bulletin 67” to keep you up-to-date on Reunion News and Announcements about your classmates. It features a run-on format with the latest update always on top.
Your Reunion Newsletter will continue to be published periodically with the same unabashed objective: entice you to attend your 50th Class Reunion scheduled the weekend of October 6 - 8, 2017
August 18, 2015
The key objective of the Reunion Committee Meeting held at PHHS on August 15th and Chaired by Tom Pisarri, was to complete evaluation of local restaurants & hotels and select a venue for our Gala Reunion Dinner & Dance to be held on Saturday evening October 7, 2017.
Within Days of the meeting, the Venue Task Team, lead by Linda (Meyer) Verdicchio, recommended the Marriott Hotel in Park Ridge NJ as the site for our dinner & dance. This gorgeous venue satisfies the Committee’s objectives for an upscale affordable location with hotel to accommodate out-of-town classmates attending the Reunion. We expect to reserve a block of rooms at reduced prices.
A YES-NO-MAYBE Reunion Attendance Survey will be emailed to you within 2 weeks. The Committee needs to firm-up it’s attendance estimate in order to complete negotiations with the Marriott and to better plan other weekend events, like the Sunday BBQ picnic. A tentative Schedule-of-Events and price ranges will be included with the Survey.
Completing the survey promptly will help the Committee maintain it’s planning momentum. Results of the survey will be shared later so you know who will attend. Everyone who completes the survey will be entered in a raffle to win one free ticket to the Sunday picnic. It just might be you!
Your Reunion Newsletter
Vol. #3 – Dec 2014
Countdown to Reunion: 34 months
Countdown to Reunion: 34 months
____________________________________________
The Challenge: Make a Connection Before the end of 2014
Pick-up the phone or send an email to an old HS classmate friend that you haven’t made contact with in years. Our memories aren’t as sharp as they once were, but something happens when old friends reconnect: one old story prompts another, memory banks are unlocked, and laughter invariably follows. The more connections that you make over the next three years, the more likely you’ll look forward to attending the 50th Reunion. Without you there, fewer HS experiences will be recalled, fewer laughs enjoyed, fewer happy tears will flow. We would love to hear about any contact you make, so please email me, John, at: jjmarkert@gmail.com
Your Reunion Theme Song:
THOSE WERE THE DAYS MY FRIENDS
In 1968, the release of “Those Were the Days” by Welsh singer Mary Hopkin was a fabulous hit in most of the western hemisphere. This song was the inspiration for our 50th Reunion Theme and is depicted in our Reunion logo that tops this Newsletter. But the lyrics written by Gene Raskin to an old Russian melody are a lonely and melancholy song and not really fitting for our
|
You can find the melody by entering
“Those Were the Days”
on any internet
search engine |
2017 Reunion celebration. So I penned our own lyrics to the same tune, telling the story from our freshman year, through high school, to be sung at our 50th Reunion Golden Anniversary Gala on October 7, 2017. Hopefully the following verse and chorus interests you enough to visit our Reunion website for the full 10-verse song.
It was a labor of love that I hope you enjoy.
It was a labor of love that I hope you enjoy.
Verse 1
Cradled in a Valley was our high school
Crammed with baby boomers as you know
Then a school was built upon the hillside
So Valley had a new but friendly foe
Chorus
Those were the days my friends we thought
they’d never end
We had our fun but learned a thing or two
Now 50 years have passed, we’ve joined again at last
Our high school days, oh yes those were the days
1964 Class 50th Reunion: A Joyous & Emotional Success
Annual Duke Memorial Gathering
Continues to Attract Classmates and their Spouses
Continues to Attract Classmates and their Spouses
Thirty classmates and spouses had a blast attending the 6th Annual Duke Memorial Golf Tourney this past September in Myrtle Beach, SC. This event was started by Bill “Duke” Getler & Tom Pisarri to get old HS friends together, initially, to play golf. This year, the River Vale Team edged out the Hillsdale and Dukettes Gal’s team (2013 Champs) to win the one-day scramble, earning the privilege of drinking from the Pisarri Cup Trophy. Much more than a golfing event, the fun and games should draw 40 or more attendees next year. Second year “Dukester” Toni Maggio vowed to bring more Pascack Hills classmates in 2015. Want to reconnect with old high school and elementary classmate chums? Come alone or bring your spouse, the welcome mat is always out! Contact John Markert at jjmarkert@gmail.com or Steve Katzman at stevenkatzman@gmail.com to get all the Duke VII details or simply to be added to the Dukester mailing list to periodically receive email updates.
Classmates, We Still Need Reunion Help!
An updated listing of your Reunion Organization has been posted on our Reunion Website www.pascack67.myevent.com (select “Our 50th Committee” from Menu Options). Join a Task Group or volunteer to fill one of the “Open” positions identified in RED. A few open positions should be filled by Hills classmates (e.g. “In Memoriam”). We need you, Cowboys!
Visit your Reunion Website & Become a Facebook Member
For classmates’ email addresses and more, visit: www.pascack67.myevent.com. Become a Facebook “group member” Pascack Valley/Hills ‘67 50th Year Reunion.
Don’t Wait Until the Reunion
to become reacquainted with classmates
Catch the Reunion Spirit…it’s Golden!
*****************************************
Your Reunion Newsletter
Vol. #2 – June 2014
Countdown to Reunion: 40 months
THE ROAD TO OUR REUNION IS PAVED WITH GOLD!
On Columbus Day Weekend 2017, we’ll celebrate the completion of four of the most formative years of our lives with classmates who shared the experience. As a prelude to our big celebration, the commemoration and celebration of other milestone events celebrating 50th year Golden anniversaries have already begun:
As new freshmen in the fall of 1963, we were shocked to hear that terrible PA announcement that our President was assassinated! 50 years later, numerous documentaries helped us better understand the man and the times. The next 50th Anniversary was fortunately a happy occasion when the Fab Four hit our shores and helped to transform American culture. Again, TV helped us relive the premiere of the Beatles on the Ed Sullivan Show…..and a new special reminded us how talented the surviving Beatles still are! The Dave Clark Five followed but with hardly the same impact.
In March, America’s favorite game show Jeopardy debuted, although not with Alex Trebek. When the World’s Fair opened up in April of 1964 we got in for just $2.00, but the visions of the future didn’t all come true. Video phones? Ask computers for information? Yep. Colonies on the Moon and jet packs for everyday transportation? Not so much. Also in April 1964, Ford unveiled its iconic muscle car…the Mustang. It was a 289 pony with 3 on the floor that would fishtail when you popped the clutch….this writer was lucky enough to have an older brother who got one! Not to be outdone, Chrysler introduced the original Hemi engine.
This coming July we’ll celebrate the enactment of the most significant piece of legislation of our lifetime…..the Civil Rights Act of 1964 that outlawed discrimination based on race, religion, sex, or national origin and ended racial segregation in schools. Hard to believe we started high school when school segregation was still a practice in parts of United States, a country founded on freedom and equality. We experienced that monumental transition!
The road to our 50th Reunion will continue to be peppered with 50th year Golden celebrations, some big, some small. What private high school memories will you celebrate over the coming months and years? Perhaps that special date or an academic or athletic achievement? Maybe the arts caught your attention or a science? Did a teacher inspire you? Maybe you met someone who is still a good friend today. Perhaps it was the fun stuff you did with friends you remember most. No doubt an experience in high school initiated a passion or changed your life in a big way. So please make the decision now to celebrate all those Golden milestones, big and small, in October, 2017, with the people who lived it alongside you!
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Know Your Reunion Committee
The PHHS & PVHS classmates of 1967 are already working together to make this Reunion one to remember. Our 50th Reunion Committee, an organization really, is led by two of our favorite people: Tom Pisarri and Toni (Maggio) George.
The 50th Reunion Committee will also be posted on Our Reunion Website. But don’t think there isn’t still room for anyone who wants to join the Team or help in some way. And we’ll need some brave souls to share the stage at our Saturday night Gala. Who will belt out the Pascack Alma Maters or sing our Reunion Theme Song? For now, continue to dig out those old photos, and please help us to locate still-missing classmates.
Classmates We Will Miss…
You may know that some classmates have passed recently and can only be with us in spirit at our 50th Reunion. We also mourn the loss of one of our teachers. We'd like to take this opportunity to offer more than a posting of their names on our class' website. Virginia (Lisanti) Ricci reached out to some family members when a formal obituary was not available and was given a glimpse into the lives of those classmates.
(YOU MAY READ ABOUT RECENTLY PASSED CLASSMATES ON PAGES 3-5)
What’s New With You?(YOU MAY READ ABOUT RECENTLY PASSED CLASSMATES ON PAGES 3-5)
A questionnaire is being finalized for you to update your biography. You’ll be asked what you have done post high school. What is, or was, your profession? Are you retired or plan to retire? Where are you living now and was the move made by choice or chance? Would you welcome classmate visits? Do you have any words of wisdom to share?
Comments or Suggestions?
Feedback is welcome! Send your comments or suggestions to: John Markert at jjmarkert@gmail.com And don’t forget to periodically check Our Reunion Website at: www.pascack67.myevent.com
Why not become a http://www.facebook.com member of
Pascack Valley/Hills ’67 50th Year Reunion group?
Pascack Valley/Hills ’67 50th Year Reunion group?
Don’t wait until the Reunion to become reacquainted with Classmates!
Catch the Reunion Spirit…it's Golden!( 2 )
Classmates who have recently
passed on...
SCOTT BERMAN - 08/26/1949 - 01/25/2012Pascack Valley '67
"Scott was a devoted son, brother, uncle and friend. He was an Artist's Representative whose works are displayed around the world. One artist, in particular, has immortalized him by painting a piece in his memory; it hangs in his parents home. Scott also collected fine art, antiques, and collectibles.
"In addition, he was an entrepreneur, owning restaurants in East Hampton, New York and Miami, Florida. He was life-loving with an easygoing personality, a great humorist, and compassionate friend. He is missed by all who knew him."
- Joyce Reisman, Scott's mother
This NY Times article from February 23, 1992 gives some insight to Scott's interest in art:
http://www.nytimes.com/1992/02/23/nyregion/east-end-art-and-art-on-auction-block.html?pagewanted=all&src=pm
BILL "DUKE" GETLER - 11/11/1948 -11/20/2012
Pascack Valley '67
William "Duke," of North Myrtle Beach, SC, formerly of River Vale and Dumont, died suddenly at home of natural causes.
Born in Manhattan, Bill grew up in River Vale, graduated Pascack Valley High School and attended Rockland Community College. He was a senior laboratory technician for the Bergen County Utilities Authority and shop steward for the Utility Workers Union of America Local 534 in Little Ferry, NJ for 26 years before retiring in 2006. Also, he was a New York National Guardsman. An avid golfer, he was a member of the Black Bear Golf Club in Longs, SC.
Bill is survived by his sisters Katherine Getler Coffman and Colleen Getler of Woodstock, VA, his brothers Thomas C. Getler of Collinsville, CT, Donald J. Getler of Bristol, CT and Alfred J. Getler of Windham, NH. He is also survived by sisters-in-law Kirsten Getler, Candace Getler and Nancy Getler.
Bill was an especially proud uncle of nieces Kelly Alsberry, Heather Brown, Meredith Dart, Stephanie Getler, Kristen Getler, Mary Katherine Getler, Samantha Getler, Emily Getler, Maggie Getler and Jillian Getler along with nephews Nate Getler and Patrick Getler. He was a devoted great-uncle to Mason Alsberry, Rashon Alsberry, Ian Alsberry, Matthew Kaminski, Aden Kiminski, Brianna Brown, Oriannah Dart, Mariellah Dart.
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He was predeceased by his parents Alfred C. and Edna C. Getler, his niece Holly Getler, and his cousin Thomas Donnelly for whom he provided care for many years.
Donations accepted:
- Special Olympics New Jersey Golf Program – "In Memory of Duke Getler" Special Olympics, 3 Princess Road, Lawrenceville, NJ 08648;
- Duke's sister, Colleen's day program – SHEN-PACO Industries, 1032 Wissler Rd., Quicksburg, VA 22847.
Full obit:
http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/northjersey/obituary.aspx?pid=161294050#sthash.SQuD
At a reunion of '67 Pascack classmates and spouses in Myrtle Beach SC last September, Bill Getler was memorialized by his friends and family. Called the "Duke Invitational" after Bill's nickname, this annual gathering of "Dukesters" was co-founded by Bill to play golf and have a good time in his hometown.
Siblings Kathy, Tom, Don, and Al flew in to participate in the memorial. A plaque, thanking the "Duke," was unveiled and will be hung on the wall each year the group meets.
RICHARD M. HIERGESELL - 05/30/1948 - 02/26/2013
Pascack Valley '67
"Our family moved to Hillsdale the year Rich (he took the name "Rick" later on) started High School at PVHS, so many of you who knew one another from the really early years wouldn't have known him from then. The family moved away from Hillsdale after I graduated in '68, so there has been little contact with most of you since our HS years.
"After HS, Rich entered the Air Force. These were the Vietnam years. He was a "Boom Operator" on a KC-135 aircraft - the air-to-air refueling planes. Being on a flight crew allowed him to see the world, with stints in Thailand, the Philippines, Alaska, Spain, England and North Dakota. He made many good friends in the AF and lost a few, too. The experiences of these years had a big impact on the person he became later in life.
"After military service, Rich attended college on the GI Bill and received a degree in Computer Programming at Rochester Inst. of Technology. Rich married his wife Sharon, and they had two lovely daughters together. They lived for many years in Rochester, NY but later on in Raleigh, NC and, lastly, in Richmond, TX, as he and Sharon pursued their careers. Rich had a life-long interest in all things electronic, particularly Ham Radio. He spent many hours communicating with folks around the world in this manner. Rich may have been a little on the shy and quiet side back in HS, but later-on he was friendly and gregarious by nature, always reaching out to folks. A lot of people loved him and now miss him.
"He and I had many conversations through the years about our time at PVHS, the friends we made back then, and the experiences - many of which you folks in the class of '67 share, too. You should all know that he cherished those memories of you folks and the experiences from back then."
Sincerely,
Bob Hiergesell,
PVHS Class of '68
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NEIL HERING - 06/25/1949 - 10/11/2013
Pascack Valley '67
Neil R. Hering, 64 of River Vale, NJ passed away on October 11, 2013. Born in Teaneck, he was a life long resident of the Pascack Valley. Neil was a sprinkler fitter for the National Automatic Sprinkler Industry, Local 696, Newark, NJ for 40+ years. He was a member of the Rock Tavern Fish and Game Club.
Neil was an outstanding athlete in track & football and is a member of the Pascack Valley High School Hall of Fame, the YMCA High School Athlete of the Year and a New Jersey All-State Football Player.
He was predeceased by his father, Cornelius Hering on October 4, 2013 and is survived by his mother, Priscilla (Adams) Hering; his wife, Teresa McDonald-Hering; his daughters, Shannon Hering, Tara Hering, Erin Fennell and Tracy Hering; his sister, Nancy Churuti; his brother, John Hering and his wife Maureen; his grandchildren, Ethan and Piper Fennell and several nieces and a nephew.
Donations accepted:
- River Vale Volunteer Ambulance Corps, 333 Rivervale Rd., River Vale, NJ 07675 in Neil's memory.
Full obit:
http://obits.dignitymemorial.com/dignity-memorial/obituary.aspx?n=Neil-Hering&lc=4025&pid=167535187&mid=5697391
THOMAS E. WILLIAMS - - 06/01/14
PVHS Faculty
Thomas E.Williams, of Twp. of Washington, NJ, passed away on Sunday, June 1, 2014. He was born in New York City to John Glydwr and Eleanor Williams. Beloved husband of Karla Williams. Devoted father of Evan of Twp. of Washington, NJ; Thomas of Atlanta, GA; David and Bryan, both of Westport, CT. Dear brother of Rhys (Aileen) Williams. He was predeceased by his sister Wendy (Claude) Flottes of Lavernose, France.
Before retiring, Tom taught mathematics and German, coached and was chairman of the foreign language department at Pascack Valley High School. He was part of the original staff that founded the Pascack Valley Regional High School district. Tom was an Army Veteran of the Korean War and Purple Heart recipient.
The family will receive their relatives and friends at Becker Funeral Home, 219 Kinderkamack Road, Westwood, NJ, on Tuesday, June 3 from 4-8 PM. The Funeral Service celebrating Tom's life will be held at the funeral home on Wednesday, June 4 at 11 AM. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to the New Jersey Veterans Memorial Home of Paramus would be appreciated. www.becker-funeralhome.com
Published in The Record/Herald News on June 2, 2014
Full Obit: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/northjersey/obituary.aspx?n=thomas-williams&pid=171203207&fhid=10693#sthash.ROGyVINo.dpuf
They Are Missed
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Thanks to Joanne Mockus Leach we are now on Facebook as a class,
Pascack Valley/Hills '67 50th Reunion.
This is a good way to stay in touch with our classmates!
This is a good way to stay in touch with our classmates!
Your Reunion Newsletter
Vol. #1 – January 2014
Countdown to Reunion: 45 months
As you might have expected, and may already know, planning for our 50th High School Reunion is already in progress! A Reunion Committee of new volunteers and old committee Vets is being led by Toni Maggio from Hills and Tom Pisarri from Valley. Once again, our two great classes who went to grade school together, shared a freshman year together at PV, later battled on the fields and courts, often partied together -- even dated each other -- will unite once again to celebrate.
Cowboys & Indians: frenemies together again
Our Golden Reunion promises to be a very special weekend, crowned by a Saturday night Gala of music, dance, nostalgia, skits, tributes, and memorials for those we’ve lost. The Reunion Theme is “Those Were the Days.” There were good days and bad days and everything in between, but they were our days! Fifty years by any measure is worth celebrating. Even if you’ve never attended a Reunion, or if you missed the last couple, you’ll be disappointed if you miss this one! Who knows if there will be another?
This Reunion Newsletter, and the editions to follow, will keep you informed of reunion planning, and of course, attempt to entice as many classmates as possible to attend what could be the best class reunion yet. Your Reunion Newsletter will be posted on our Reunion website, Reunion Facebook page, emailed, and snail mailed to some, to ensure the word gets out. Future newsletters will tell you the committee members and the task groups that are being formed, plus the venue selection, and even the Saturday night program as it develops. Of course, if you are willing/able to help, we would love to hear from you! While planning is in the early stages, what follows is a series of questions you might have, followed by our best answers to date.
Q: Where and when will the Reunion be held?
A: The Reunion will take place on Columbus Weekend, October 6 – 8, 2017 so plan way ahead to attend! While out-of-state locations were considered, it seemed appropriate that the 50th be held reasonably local to the high schools in northern New Jersey.
Q: Has a venue been chosen?
A: Unfortunately hotels, and appropriate non-hotel venues, do not take reservations this far in advance. But just as soon as a Venue selection has been made you will be notified. A Task Team has already begun the search and some promising local sites have been identified. Since convenience and safety is important, the Saturday evening Gala will either be held in a ballroom at a hotel (the hotel where most will be staying) or at a venue with pre-arranged shuttle service back and forth between the hotel and Reunion.
Q: What else will the weekend entail?
A: Some will play golf the Friday with an informal gathering to follow for all golfer and non-golfer classmates and guests who wish to attend. Football game attendance or informal gatherings might be organized for Saturday before the Gala, and a Sunday picnic will definitely be arranged – what a great way to complete the Reunion weekend! You can participate in all or any part as you wish.
Q: Will this “gala” be fancy and will there be entertainment?
A: The 50th warrants dress up for those who wish but there definitely will not be a dress code. There will be a DJ playing a lot of 60’s music but all other entertainment will all be provided as a result of hard work and preparation by your classmates. A call for volunteers will come later to assist in presentations, tributes, Memorials, nostalgic skits, and sing-alongs. Photos provided by you may be projected at the Gala and also be included in a commemorative DVD.
Q: I’m not sure if I have the time to help, but if I’m able, who do I contact?
A: The next Newsletter will give you more information on Task Group activity and who specifically to contact. At the very least, begin thinking where you stored those old photos (including grade school) because we’ll want them!!
Finally, a questionnaire is currently being prepared for you to update your biography and submit fond memories (or not so fond memories) of your high school experience, and more. What was important to you from 1963 – 1967 at school, in your life, or in the world at large? No doubt we went to school during a very fascinating period!
Can’t wait to comment and offer suggestions? Contact John Markert at this email address: jjmarkert@gmail.com.
Don’t forget to check out the Reunion website periodically at: www.pascack67.myevent.com
And why not become a Facebook member of
Pascack Valley/Hills ’67 50th Year Reunion group?
Don’t wait until the Reunion to become reacquainted with Classmates!
Catch the Reunion Spirit…it’s Golden!
Did you know that original 50th Reunion lyrics
have been written to the melody of
“Those Were The Days” ?
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Your Reunion Newsletter
Vol. #4 ? November 2015
Countdown to Reunion: 23 months
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6 Reasons Why People Don?t Attend HS Reunions
1. Health: I would like to attend, but my health just won?t allow it.
Our thoughts: Sorry you won?t be able to attend and hope your health improves. And, while there will be photos to see and possibly a DVD of the Golden Dinner Dance to view later, you might still be able to be there other than in spirit: FaceTime with classmates over the Reunion weekend or observe through the magic of Skype. You?ll be missed!
2. Wealth: Unfortunately, the cost of attending the Reunion will be too much a strain on my budget.
Our thoughts: Hopefully, your situation will improve and there are two years yet to save. You might consider attending alone if your spouse or partner would just as soon stay home. If you don?t live too far away, maybe enjoying the sights while driving rather than flying could be an option. Perhaps some form of confidential financial assistance will become available through the Committee, if generous classmates donate. Local classmates might also volunteer to open their homes for you to stay during the Reunion weekend, and still others might elect to sponsor a classmate by picking up the tab to the Sunday picnic. Of course, we would rather you attend just a couple of weekend events, rather than not participate at all.
3. Satisfaction: I see a few classmate friends from time to time and I call, email or connect with others through Facebook. I?m satisfied with that, so why go to a Reunion to see people I don?t know or like?
Our thoughts: People who attend 50th HS Reunions are surprised how much they enjoy getting to know classmates who were outside their primary circle of HS friends. You might even find that those people you didn?t like are very different people today.
There is only one place where you can make ?new? friends who grew up in the 60s, experienced what you did, and can laugh and cry about things you share!
4. Separation: I haven?t seen any classmates for a long time. I?m not the same person anymore and doubt we have much in common any longer. I might not even be recognized.
Our thoughts: We urge you to reach out to classmates before the Reunion. We?ve all changed and generally for the best. The 50th promises to be a wonderful time to reconnect; you?ll enjoy the nostalgic atmosphere and old friends will help you recall shared experiences, both good and bad! If you miss the Reunion, fewer good times will be remembered, fewer laughs will be heard. Join the rest of us who will also be staring at nametags (not to worry, we?ll make them with big bold letters). You?ll find that we have more in common today than you think!
5. Isolation: For me, HS was social isolation. I felt alone. The best day of HS was the last day. My HS experience is something I don?t wish to relive; it was often painful. Now I look to the future, not back.
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Our thoughts: HS years were an awkward period and most felt lost, at times, or rejected. It wasn?t all fun & games for anyone. By attending, this could be an opportunity to show that you survived a difficult time in your life: here I am - living proof! For some it is a chance for closure, to make peace, to give and accept apology. Attend for a few hours, if only to celebrate your current life, devoid of pettiness and drama that was sometimes part of growing up at Pascack.
6. Competition: Reunions are for people to flaunt their success, brag about important jobs, big houses, world travel, and make others feel envious.
Our thoughts: The 10th 20th and even 35th Reunions were sometimes a stage for those types. By the 40th Reunion, most classmates were not so easily impressed. Not many of us lived the life we expected, but we know now what being ?rich? really means: enjoying life with family and friends, being needed and respected, giving and receiving love. None of us has escaped tragedy, heartbreak, and loss of people we?ve loved. We are more alike now, than different, and those still in competition will find an audience difficult to find in October 2017.
Comments? Email John Markert at: jjmarkert@gmail.com
Catch the Reunion Spirit?it?s Golden!