The ND56 Mini-Reunion Buffet will immediately follow the Mass (approximately 12:30 p.m.) in the Oak Room (upstairs dining room) of the South Dining Hall. Cost per person is $25 (same as last year). There will be an open bar.
President Gordon DiRenzo asks that you please send your reservation with your check (also, please include your contribution of $25 for 2010 for the ND56 FUND) check to Treasurer Ed Cosgrove; 525 Delaware Ave; Buffalo, NY 14202.
FR. TOM CHAMBERS, CSC, ND56 CLASS CHAPLAIN celebrates his Mass on the 25th of each month for our Class, living, ill or deceased.
Did you ever sorta regret not writing a book about your life... or a vital part of your growing up?
ND56 Classmate Tom Hawkins has authored such a piece, and it's available for your purchase at the HAMMES NOTRE DAME BOOKSTORE FOR $19.95.
(or you can send him a check at P.O. Box 1006; Jackson, MI 49204) Tom was born in August 1934; in 210 pages, he sails through his "growing up" from 1938, until his Junior year at Notre Dame -- when his Mother died of Cancer.
It mostly took place in the small mid-western town of Jackson, MI thru the Depression, WWII, his school days and friendships, fishing, skating, football, and parties.
It's pretty much guaranteed that you will find personal nostalgia that has you say to yourself: "Hey I did that too, except..."
"The Class of 1956 Endowed Scholarship Fund was established by class members on July 1, 2000, in anticipation of the 45th reunion in 2001. The Fund continues to grow annually ( it received a big boost in 2006 with the 50th Reunion Giving Program ), and as of June 30, 2010, the book value of gifts received since inception totaled $ 750,179. Invested market value as of March 31, 2010, was $894,837. Current figures are available on the ND56 web site www.nd56.org.
The Scholarship Fund symbolizes the bond between the Class of 1956 ( over 85% of its members have made gifts ) and present and future classes at Notre Dame.
And, the impact of the '56 Fund continues to grow - from a $1,900 scholarship award the first year to $42,500 last academic year, divided among three students, not in equal amounts. Put in perspective, over that same time period, the University's spending on undergraduate financial aid has risen from $28 million to $76 million.
It is projected to go to $98 million for this coming school year, 2010-2011. ND continues its steadfast commitment to a needs-blind admissions policy. Simply put, that means if the Admissions Office says the undergraduate has got what it takes to be admitted, the Office of Student Financial Services has to make Notre Dame affordable for them. ND '56 has played a role in that endeavor, and will continue to do so. The Class of '56 Endowed Scholarship is a perpetual gift to the University, helping students with scholarships in the years after we are no longer attending reunions.
Please keep the Fund in mind in your annual giving to Notre Dame. Specify ND'56 Endowed Scholarship Fund on the memo line of your check, the reply card to the ND Annual Fund Office, and a post-it note on the check as well. Gifts designated to the '56 Fund count toward your annual giving record and eligibility for the alumni football ticket lottery."
Larry Kennedy,
Fund Chairman
Few fought prostate cancer more passionately nor longer than Clem O'Neill -- nor was anyone more passionate helping ND56 Classmates win their battle with cancer; some 13 years ago. Clem co-founded the ND56 Cancer Support Group -- that has been a factor in many ND56 men being alive today. This past year, his cancer came back (again and again).
His life-long (since ND roommates and a famous swim across the St. Joe River) Dan Devine wrote Saturday, July 17: "He was found by his caretaker (Marybella) just after 7:a.m. She said he was feeling very good when she left Friday night. She found him on the kitchen floor and he was non-responsive. He had apparently fallen and hit his head."
Clem is survived by his wife, Marilyn; daughters Sheila and Kathleen, and sons Danny and Tim; and the world's most grandpa-spoiled grandkids.
A full obituary can be seen on the OBITUARY link. Clem leaves behind legends of loyal and loving friends -- including me.
Services for Clem are scheduled for Saturday July 24, 2010 at 2pm at St. Therese Parish; 6016 Camino Rico; San Diego, CA 92120
Send cards to the family at 6065 Ridgemoor Dr; San Diego, CA 92120. A Mass will be celebrated on Campus by the Holy Cross Priests from Clem's ND56 Classmates. John Manion
JIM REVORD shares news of the death of ND56 Classmate Bill Lafond: William E Lafond, age 75, of Oswego, IL passed away peacefully in his home on July 6, 2010 surrounded by his family, following a long battle with complications due to diabetes and cancer. He was born October 7, 1934 in Chicago, IL.
Bill graduated from St Phillip High School in Chicago, IL, and the University of Notre Dame with a B.Ph in Commerce in 1956. Immediately following graduation , Bill married his high school sweetheart, Pat Connelly, who he met in Atlantic City, NJ while on a class trip to Washington, DC. They recently celebrated their 54th wedding anniversary on June 30th. Bill spent 30 years with Ford Motor Company at the Chicago Assembly Plant where he was an industrial engineer, retiring in 1990. Bill is survived by his beloved wife Patricia, Connelly Lafond and five children.
Please direct mail c/o Mrs. Patty DeGarmo, 602 Pearces Ford Rd; Oswego, IL 60543.
A Mass is being celebrated on Campus by the Holy Cross priests for Bill from his ND56 Classmates.
The full obituary can be seen on the OBITUARY link.
This photo shows Bernie Van Etten with his grandson, Jack Ziltz, a 16-year old, 245# junior center at Marian Catholic High School in Chicago Heights, IL. They are shown with ND Athletic Director Jack Swarbrick at the 2010 Rockne Dinner in Chicago this spring. The growing youngster is active in honing his skills at major college football camps this summer.
On Thursday, June 24, we arrived in Passau, state of Bavaria, Germany, on the Danube River.
Passau is located at the junction of three rivers: the Danube, the Inn River, and the Ilz River, an important factor in Passau's development over the years.
During the 8th century, St Boniface founded a Christian settlement here. The first basilica built then was dedicated to St Stephan, and became the model for the church of the same name built later in Vienna. See photos below.
Beneath the octagonal dome of St Stephan's RC church is the largest church organ in the world with more than 17,000 pipes. See below. We attended a half-hour concert here during our visit. Magnificent. See photo of the church organ, below.
We also took a walking tour around the town of Passau, where some other famous (and infamous) people once passed through, including:
1) Adolph Hitler, who was a child when his father worked here for a short time: and
2) Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, who in 1762, at the age of six, played a recital on the grand organ and establishede himself as a musical prodigy.
Along the Inn River in Passau.
Strolling by another church in Passau, along the Danube. Note the high water mark on the wall above April's head, indicating where the Danube river crested at various times in the past during flooding.
Tomorrow, June 25, we will be in Regensburg, Bavaria, Germany and then into the Main-Danube Canal.
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JIM SASSO INTRODUCES FAMILY TO SAN ANDREAS FAULT, AND ENJOYS "ITALIAN" DINING... JIM SASSO was pleased to show his family around the Coachella Valley desert on Fathers' Day weekend. He's shown here with his two daughters and three grandkids at a point along the San Andreas Fault. He had lunch with the Manions and his daughter, Ann, and grandson, Alex, on June 21. |
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" Patrick Francis Spencer, oldest son of our oldest son,
graduated from North Alleghany High (Pittsburgh),
and is going to attend VA Tech in the fall. "
Hey, it's a night out at the (new) ball park on June 10 as Judy and Dave Collins had a night out from home in Incline Village, NV to watch the Reno Aces. They joined John Manion's family for a beer and hot dogs as the AAA California League affiliates of the Arizona Diamondbacks hosted Salt Lake City.
As Spring warms up to become summer in the So. Cal. desert, Kathy and Don Carlin join Mary Ann and John Manion for one last night out on the town of Palm Desert. Family-style Murph's Chicken was the selection this year. and the Carlins are now "back east" in Northfield, IL
HLAVIN LEGACY CONTINUES AT ND |
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MARILYN & CLEM O'NEILL TOUR RUSSIA IN OCT. 2009 |
It's always a festive occasion as the six ND56 Classmates
meet periodically in St. Paul, MN. This May 2010, the event took
place at KEYS RESTAURANT, and included enthusiastic conversations
about the olden days(the '50s) at ND and dreams for the 2010 Fighting
Irish Football Team. Dr. Vince Eilers arranged for this photo (on his
new digital camera) showing: Eddie Denn, Jack Patz, Larry Kennedy,
Linnus, Bill Brehl, George Broucek, Lucy, and Vince Eilers.
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Karl Martersteck sent word yesterday that JOHN T. MALLOY died last Thursday after a several-month bout with cancer. John’s funeral will be held Tuesday in Grand Blanc, MI. John is survived by his wife, Lois and eight children -- five Domers: Kevin, Tim, Sue, Ellen, Mary; and Michael, Maureen and David. Incidentally, C. J. and Mary Junge's older son, Josh, has been accepted and plans to attend ND starting this fall. John was a Domer, through and through, and seldom missed an ND56 event. The full obituary can be seen on the OBITUARY link.
The family address is 5230 Kimberly Dr; Grand Blanc, MI 48439-5158.
Carl A. Meyer, Jr., MD, died Sept. 20, 2009 at home in Lock Haven, PA. He was born in Williamsport on July 5, 1934. Dr. Meyer was married on Aug. 1, 1959 in Larksville to the former Thomasine Skovronsky who survives. Dr. Meyer retired in 2005 after 38 years from the Lock Haven Hospital as an anesthesiologist. He was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. Dr. Meyer graduated from the Notre Dame, Jefferson Medical College and the University of California at San Francisco where he completed his residency. He served in the Air Force from 1962 to 1964.
The family address is Mrs. Thomasine Meyer; 21 Hemlock Dr; Lock Haven, PA 17745. A Mass will be celebrated on Campus by the Holy Cross priests in Carl's memory from his Classmates.
The full obituary can be seen on the OBITUARY link.
Anne Nault, daughter of our JERRY J. NAULT called May 15 with news of her Dad passing away on Feb. 4, 2010. He broke his clavicle last fall, and was hospitalized or in rehab most of the winter with complications and pneumonia. The full Obituary can be seen on that link: Obituaries; the family address is 820 West New York Ave.; Oshkosh, WI 54901-3640.
Jerry Joseph Nault, age 79, passed away peacefully at Aurora Medical Center on February 4, 2010 surrounded by his family and friends. Born in Marinette, Wisconsin on September 20, 1930 he was the son of the late Regina (Mailloux) and Fred V. Nault. Jerry was a graduate of Marinette Catholic Central High School and received a bachelor's degree in International Sales and Marketing from Notre Dame University . Jerry was also a proud U.S. Navy Veteran and was stationed in Memphis, Tennessee. On June 19, 1954 Jerry married the former Joyce M. Johnson at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Marinette. Joyce preceded Jerry in death on August 7, 2006. Together the couple had four children, Anne E. Nault of Oshkosh, Thomas J. Nault of Kirkland, Washington, David J. (Michelle) Nault of St. Petersburg, Florida and Christine M. Nault of Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
The full obituary can be seen on the OBITUARY link.
Gordon DiRenzo sent an April 27, 2010 email noting his recent trip to Syria, that included his visit in Roman Excavations in Palmyra, having a smoke in Damascus and traveling within 20 miles of the Iraq border.
He attended the 2010 Alumni Senate and was in the N.D.
Stadium Press Box with Coach Brian Kelly.
His email noted: " The N.D. Catering Department at long last was able to complete the pricing and negotiations for the Mini-Reunion. The per person cost for the buffet will be $25.00. Same as last year. There will be an open bar. Time is 12:30 P.M. in Oak Room of the South Dining Hall.
Please know that for the past several months I have been in discussions with the N.D.A.A. about any plans for a major reunion in 2011. There have been significant changes in the format of the June reunions. In any event, the N.D.A.A. does not wish to focus any attention on reunions for 2011 until after this June. I shall be sending more info on this matter to the class officers soon. So, for the moment, all classes matters are under control, as they always have been.
On 5/3 I shall be leaving for an extended tour of China. I expect that I shall have internet access during that period. G" Email to: dir2728@aol.com
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| DiRenzoND56 RomanEXcav/Palmyra 3/10 | DiRenzo BrianKelly NDSenate 4/10 |
We returned home to Charlotte on Palm Sunday evening -- one day later than planned. Our 5200 mile itinerary turned into almost 6000 miles. Some of the dirt roads we planned to take in the Chiricahua Mountains in southern Arizona and near Canyon de Chelly in northern Arizona had not yet been cleared of snow so we had to use longer alternate routes. And we must have added 50 miles just driving around El Paso hunting for a place that our GPS lady (Ethyl) kept losing and never did find.
We never got to downtown Dallas, so I have to renege on our promise of a picture riding those big bronze longhorns. Thomas the Tank Engine was in the area, and we HAD to take grandson Joshua for a ride. Actually, with about 2000 other kids and frazzled adults all elbowing in for a picture with Thomas, ANY picture would have been audacious.
Our big chance came as 50 mph tail winds literally blew us into Shamrock, Texas -- on old Route 66 near the Oklahoma border. Shamrock's only remaining claim to fame, since I-40 passed it by, is its name and some really neat old gas stations, motels, etc of Route 66 vintage. Other than its Irish card, Shamrock doesn't have much to play with.
Since were staying overnight, we had dinner at Big Vern's Steakhouse, the only place recommended by some oil well riggers who were regulars in the area. Well, Big Vern featured green -- especially shamrocks -- in his décor. Every table had strings of shiny green beads -- like Mardi Gras. Wait staff all were wearing green somewhere. Green crepe paper festooned the ceiling -- probably left over from a St. Patrick's Day celebration the week before.
During dinner, I donned my green beads and Big Vern came over to visit. When I told him my name was "Dunegan" he brought me some more beads. I mentioned that I had more than a passing interest in all this Irish stuff because I was a Notre Dame alum, adding (in case he might not know), home of the Fighting Irish. Foolish me! Shamrock High School is ALSO home of the Fighting Irish!
We chatted a bit with Big Vern, (bonded maybe?), and his wife (maybe) joined us and urged that we purchase a memento consisting of a packet of powdery stuff that, when mixed with Irish Whiskey made a wonderful green Irish drink. I escaped -- telling her that I preferred my Black Bush neat.
As we left, I noticed Big Vern's wonderful sign, quickly grabbed my camera and ND cap, and Cyn took the picture. It's not very audacious, but as a memento I love it; especially the Rout 66 stuff. And the steaks were pretty good too!
It was an interesting trip. We had nasty, gusty rain from New Orleans to Natchez; snow squalls in Albuquerque; a dust storm near Tucson; fresh snow at 9000 feet near Los Alamos; and saw an awful lot of I-40 from Petrified Forest -- all the way home to Charlotte. We went to an air show with the Thunderbirds and attended a blind wine tasting near Tombstone with friends from Tucson . We also hiked around the Guadaloupe Mountains, and up to old Ft. Bowie in Cochise Apache country. Saw lovely cathedrals/basilicas in New Orleans , Natchez , Tucson , Albuquerque , Santa Fe and OK City.
The Carlsbad Caverns were awesome.
A Navajo driver drove us in his Jeep through Canyon de Chelly mostly in a fast-running river fed by spring melt; it's the second largest canyon in the U.S. The river, petroglyphs and cave dwellings all surrounded by huge cliffs made this a real adventure. Another driver got stuck right in the middle of the river and had to be winched out.
When we returned, Cyn and I were still talking to each other, but we were both tired of hearing GPS lady, Ethyl "Recalculating" or ordering "u-turn as soon as possible." (She actually saved our tails several times. You gotta trust her!)
Jerry Spaeth emailed us: a Spalding classmate told me he heard fellow classmate Joe Franzgrote, also ND '56, passed away. Joe was my roommate second half frosh year in Zahm, dropped out of engineering at the end of that school year and graduated with a BA in '56. Saw Joe at 5-year Spalding reunions in Peoria. The Denver paper included this:
Joe Franzgrote, 75, passed peacefully at his Cherry Hills Village home on Wednesday, March 3, 2010. Joe was born April 10, l934 in Peoria, Illinois to Joseph H. Franzgrote, Sr. and Romaine (Oberer) Franzgrote. After graduating from the University of Notre Dame, Joe came to Denver in l967 and became the General Sales Manager of K*USA TV. In l983 Joe went to Minneapolis as the President and General Manager of Gannett's KARE-TV. In l989 Joe returned to Denver as the President and General Manager of K*USA-TV. He retired in l999 after 44 years in the broadcast industry. Joe was afflicted with the rare neurological disease, Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP), which eventually stops all movement including walking, talking, blink rate, eye movements and all motor coordination. PSP has no known cause or cure. The family address is 1 Glenmoor Circle; Cherry Hills Village, CO 80110-7121.
The full obituary can be seen on the OBITUARY link.
(The following letter was received by mail from the widow of Gerald Forrette)
"3-20-10 Just came across the Newsletter and realized I hadn't sent in an obit notice of my husband's death.
Gerald Byrne Forrette passed away Feb.6, 2009
Clarice Forrette
6142 Artic Way; Edina, MN 55436
Charles J. “Chuck” Milligan was born on October 7, 1934 in Chicago to Francis J. Sr. and Julia (nee Ryan) Milligan. He passed away on March 6, 2010 in Arlington Heights. He is survived by his wife of nearly 50 years, Betty, nee DeGrado; his children, Charles J. Jr. (Jeanne Bates) Milligan, Mary Ann (Ron) Fall, Brian (Tricia) Milligan, Laura (Mike) Renfus and Jim (Wendy) Milligan; his grandchildren, Veronica, Matthew, Annie, Eric, Brandon, Kallie, David, Jake, Tori, Paige, Mark, Elleigh and Emma; his brother, Jack (Joyce) Milligan; and his sister, Jean (John) Sweeney.
He was preceded in death by his parents, and his brother, Francis Jr. (Cathy) Milligan. A Mass will be celebrated on Campus by the Holy Cross priests for Chuck from his ND56 Classmates.The family address is Mrs. Betty Milligan; 442 So. Kennicott; Arlington Heights, IL 60005-2247.
The full obituary is on the Class Web page: Obituaries.
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JUAN and FELLA PACHECO CONTINUE MINISTRY IN DOMINICAN REPUBLIC JOHN PACHECO writes on March 12: Fella and I and our Ministry were working with a group of freshmen from the Pontifical Catholic University Mother and Teacher, here in Santiago, without doubt the best in the country. By the way, Fr. Ted has an honorary degree from them. Our daughter Mercedes Laura is already in her second year at the PUCMM, working towards becoming a medical doctor, God willing. Please pray for her.
And the weekend of Palm Sunday we'll be in San Jose de las Matas with the Retreat "Discover Yourself", a beautiful meditation on the Passion of the Lord, a gift we received from the Holy Spirit a few years back, and which has become a very sought after Retreat. Blessings and peace. |
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2010 Studebaker Design Contest
This will be our third year of the contest, sponsored primarily by the National Studebaker Museum and the Design Department of ND. We concentrate on youth, but it is open to all in the world to enter. Please help us to get the word out.
The 'League' is a group of over 60 members of us old designers including former VPs, Design Execs, and Designers from G.M., Ford, Chrysler, Studebaker, and many other car companies around the world.
It will be our 4Th. year of exhibiting our annual "Future Design" presentations to encourage better overall design in tomorrow's vehicles.
I proposed that we couple this year's theme "Design a New Studebaker" with the Studebaker Contest and all agreed.
I hope that you, all of our fellow alumnae, our families, and friends will either enter.... or have some fun thinking about it !
Virgil M. Exner, Jr. '56
For details on the contest and an application form, click here,
| ND '56 Endowed Scholarship Class Honorees and corresponding ND Student Scholarship Students. |
| YEAR | Class Honoree | ND Student Scholarship |
| 2001-2002 | John F. Manion | Caitlin Allen '02 |
| 2002-2003 | Thomas A. Coleman | William Reilly '03 |
| 2003-2004 | Michael J. Kiley | Nathaniel "Nate" Hudak '07 |
| 2004-2005 | Fr. Thomas E. Chambers, C. S. C. | Jacob "Jake" Greiner '05 |
| 2005-2006 | Prof. Steve Rogers | Pamela Dorsey '06 |
| 2006-2007 | John J. Fannon | Tiffany Roberts '07 and Daniel Ott '08 |
| 2007-2008 | Richard J. Yeager, Sr. | Daniel Ott '08, Tanya Ngo '08 and Stephen Govea '08 |
| 2008-2009 | James P. Finnegan | Juliana Thimons '09, James McFarlane '09, and James Zenker '09 |
| 2009-2010 | Daniel M. Boland, PhD Mark P. Burns Gordon J. DiRenzo, PhD | Zachary "Zach" Stackhouse '12 Amanda Cosfol '11 Joel Bricker '12 |
| ZACH STACKHOUSE, ND56 ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP AWARD -----HONORING DR. DAN BOLAND, PhD |
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Dear Class of 1956,
I am from Denver, Colorado, where I've lived most of my life. My father is a high school teacher and my mother is an Occupational Therapist and developmental neuropsychologist. I have a sister who is 15 and a sophomore in high school. I come from a very strong and large irish family, so Notre Dame was always in the back of my mind. My senior year, I applied to the University, but honestly, I thought I would wind up elsewhere. It wasn't until April of my senior year, when I received financial aid and scholarships, that I took a serious look at Our Lady's University. As this shows, the help that you've provided is largely responsible for my presence here. When I looked more seriously at Notre Dame, I discovered that there was something special about this place, without having to visit. When I arrived, my somewhat blind leap found sturdy ground, and a school and community I have come to love. I am a sophomore now, and a Philosophy major, and the intellectual engagement I have experienced so far has been outstanding. My reading, writing, and critical thinking abilities are expanding in ways I could not have predicted, and I know that whatever direction I go after college, I will be prepared to make a difference in my field and in my world. This is my second year in Carroll hall. The dorm around the lake provides fantastic views, but it provides an amazing community within the university. The Dorm life is integral to the Notre Dame experience, but by my second week in Carroll last year, I knew almost everyone in the dorm. From the service activities available through the dorm, to the interhall sports and dances, Carroll has been one of the best parts of my Notre Dame experience. The biggest and best part of my Notre Dame experience so far has been my joining the Men's Crew Team. I had never rowed before last fall, but now have the possibility of trying out for the Collegiate National team within the next few years. The friends I've made and experiences I've had as a part of the team have changed my life and perspective on the world. The bonds I've formed I know will last forever. Currently, I am studying hard and considering study abroad options and summer internships for next year. I am trying to remain open to the next opportunity, as my first year and a month as a member of this community has done nothing but open doors. Again, thank you all so much for the opportunity you are providing. The graduates of this university will continue to be a driving force in the world intellectually, spiritually, and otherwise, and I cannot wait to contribute to that force.
Yours, |
 Dan Boland has Masters degrees in both Theology (1960) and in Education (1961), a Doctorate in Consulting Psychology (1967) and several years post-doctoral training and research in human behavior with the NTL Institute for Applied Behavioral Sciences. He taught at the University of Notre Dame and later at Arizona State University. He left academics to open a private consulting practice. For the next thirty years he consulted with various organizations and law firms, government agencies and executives in North and Central America and Europe. He is a life member of the American Psychological Association, and also belonged to the American Psychology-Law Society, the Society for Business Ethics, the Association for Practical and Professional Ethics, the World Future Society, the Acton Institute for Religion and Economics and the Society for the Psychological Study of Social Issues. Dan now spends a great deal of his time as a founding member and Board member of the Sycamore Trust which seeks to combat the increasing secularization of the University of Notre Dame, to stem the drastic loss of its Catholic faculty (which is now at barely 52%) and to identify various threats (both internal and external) which undermine the University's Catholic mission and identity. Dan resides in Carlsbad, CA with his wife, the California artist Nancy Parke. He spends most of his remaining energies maintaining a semblance of order and family tranquility with his twin grandchildren Christian and Chloe, who will be six in November. His intra-familial efforts have received mixed reviews but, adhering to the tradition of the Notre Dame Catholicism in which he was fortuitously educated, he perseveres.
Daniel M. Boland, PhD
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| AMANDA COSFOL, ND56 ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP AWARD --- HONORING MARK BURNS, '56 |
 MARK BURNS graduated magma cum laude with a BS in Commerce in 1956. He was fortunate to have been awarded a four year academic scholarship to ND or he would not have been a student at our Lady's University. Following graduation he joined IBM where he went back to school in their 18 month training program. He spent his 18 year career in Sales. First as a computer salesman to the steel industry in the Chicago area, then as a Marketing Manager, and following some staff assignments, a Branch Manager in the same office where he did his direct selling. He closed out his IBM career as Manager of Marketing Planning for the 23 States in IBM's Midwest Region. Mark left IBM to join two former IBM associates who bought a community Bank in Chicago. Mark became the President of the Hyde Park Bank where he spent 10 years. He left to join a group of local Banks, the Pinnacle Bank Group, where he was named President of the lead Bank, 1st National of Cicero. He subsequently became President of the Holding Company for the 7 Bank group and retired as Vice Chairman of the Board for the Group. After retirement, Mark served as co-president of the ND Class of 1956 from 2001 through 2008.
Mark married his childhood sweetheart and they recently celebrated their 50th anniversary. The are proud to have 3 daughters, Colleen, Maureen, and Kathleen, 8 grandchildren, and one great grandchild. Fortunately for the Burns's, they are all locals living within 20 minutes. | 
DEAR CLASS OF 1956 My name is Amanda Cosfol, and I am a junior Marketing and Industrial Design double major from the suburbs of Philadelphia. I spent my first two years at the University as a Lewis Hall Chick and now live in Ryan Hall. I feel honored and would like to extend my sincere gratitude for your generosity in awarding me the Class of 1956 Scholarship. With a sister just out of college and another on her way to high school, my family and I greatly appreciate it. This award is evidence of one of my favorite characteristics of Notre Dame: tradition. Your continued dedication to this University is an inspiration to remember the unparalleled Notre Dame community after graduation. After attending a Summer Experience program here before my senior year of high school, I fell in love with the University of Notre Dame and feel very blessed to attend.As a Marketing and Industrial Design major, I have the opportunity to experience both the Mendoza College of Business and the College of Arts and Letters. I have loved my academic experience here and am lucky enough to continue my education overseas when I study in London next semester. I am so excited! In addition to my academic commitments, I am active in sports on campus as captain of my inter-hall cross country team and as a member of inter-hall flag football and CoRec basketball. I also work as a Student Manager at North Dining Hall, where I have enjoyed working since freshman year. I also participate as Secretary of Notre Dame’s Undergraduate Women in Business Club. Last year, the Club successfully hosted its first annual Professional Development Conference for which I acted as Promotions Chair. This was a wonderful learning experience, and I look forward to this year’s upcoming Conference! Spirituality and the importance of service at Notre Dame are two things that I consider unique to our identity. There is nothing quite like dorm Mass here, and as a lector I feel very much immersed in the sense of community. I loved my weekend retreat, Notre Dame Encounter with Christ, last spring. I have also had the great pleasure of participating in the Urban Plunge and Appalachia service projects. Both were eye opening and have instilled in me the need to give back, a need which you have illustrated with your generosity in this scholarship. My brief stay at the Romero Center in Camden and week at Nazareth Farm in West Virginia are some of my fondest memories of college thus far. I cannot wait to continue my service here as a volunteer at the Early Childhood Development Center on campus and in Appalachia again next year.
Again, thank you so much for your generosity. Your consideration and monetary support make my Notre Dame experience possible. I will remember your kindness as I venture into the world with the unified Notre Dame community behind me. I am thrilled for another season of Irish football! And our hearts forever love thee Notre Dame. |
| JOEL BRICKER, '12, ND56 ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP AWARD -- HONORING GORDON DIRENZO, PhD |
 Gordon DiRenzo received a bachelor of arts degree cum laude in philosophy, and earned a master’s degree in sociology and a doctorate in social and clinical psychology, followed by graduate and post-graduate work at Harvard and Columbia, as well as post-graduate work in anthropology at the University of Colorado. Gordon recently completed a thirty-five year tenure as a full professor at the University of Delaware, which was preceded by appointments at Indiana University, Fairfield University, and the University of Portland, among others. He has served as a visiting professor at Notre Dame as well as Senior Fulbright Professor at the University of Rome and the University of Bologna. Gordon is the author or co-author of fourteen books, both in English and Italian, as well as numerous chapters and articles in scientific journals. He has been listed for the past twenty-five years in Who’s Who in America and Who’s Who in the World, among several other biographical references, including American Men and Women of Science. Gordon currently continues his private practice in clinical psychology, serves as a member of the medical staff of various hospitals, and is the Vice President of the Board of Psychology in the State of Delaware. Gordon has served the University in various capacities over the years in such positions as president of his local alumni club, and chairman of alumni-student committees. He served the Class as a vice-president for five years, and has been co-president, and currently is president since 2001.
Gordon is a private pilot who enjoys world travel, photography and wine-making. He and his wife, Mary have three children and six grandchildren -- a seventh arriving soon.
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June 6, 2010Dear Notre Dame Class of 1956: I would like to sincerely thank you the Class of 1956 Scholarship. My name is Joel Bricker and I am a philosophy and premed major from Greenfield, IA --a town of only two thousand people in the southwestern part of the state. My mom is a nurse and my dad passed away when I was ten years old. I also have a fifteen-year-old brother. Coming from a class of only 60 people, in small town rural Iowa where hardly anybody leaves the state for college, I saw attending Notre Dame as a true academic opportunity. However, it was the religious atmosphere, Notre Dame’s great sense of tradition, and a visit to the campus during my senior year that truly won me over. When I was finally accepted, it was one of the most exciting moments of my life. I recently finished by sophomore year at Notre Dame. For the last two years, I have lived in Knott Hall which has provided a terrific atmosphere both spiritually and academically. In addition, it has allowed me to meet people who I know will become lifelong friends. As a philosophy major, I am grateful to attend a university with an internationally renowned philosophy department. However, I am especially thankful to be part of one of the few major philosophy programs that actually encourages development of one’s religious beliefs. In addition, I am very appreciative to attend a university with a nationally renowned pre-med program, in which I am confident that I will be more than adequately prepared for medical school. Nevertheless academics are just one component of my Notre Dame experience, and one other area of opportunity that Notre Dame has offered me is service. Last summer I took advantage of one of the unique service opportunities that Notre Dame offers, which is the Summer Service Learning Program. Through this program I volunteered at a Boys and Girl’s Club in Lawrence, MA. At the club, I had the privilege of working with children, many of which came from underprivileged and disadvantaged families. It was truly and eye-opening experience, and something I will remember and cherish for the rest of my life.
I thank you again for making my Notre Dame experience possible. Currently I am greatly anticipating next semester -- where I will be studying in London. As a pre-med student, studying abroad can be quite a tricky issue, in terms of completing one’s requirements for med school. However, since Notre Dame operates its own school in London with the same curriculum for the classes, I am able to complete several medical pre-requisites while I am abroad. Therefore, Notre Dame again provides an outstanding opportunity that most other universities could not offer, and for which I am truly grateful. |
Photos taken by JIM HLAVIN and GORDON DiRENZO (scroll down) capsulize the events of the Nevada game weekend. I couldn't make it to ND for the weekend, but have appreciated the photos and reports from Classmates. There were two pep rallies Friday evening; the one primarily for the students was in the South Quad sponsored by Dillon Hall; another held at the Irish Green (south of the DeBartolo complex) was directed for weekend visitors and local South Bend folks. Charlie Weis and the four team captains spoke on the Dillon Hall Stage, and got the crowd really into the weekend with enthusiasm at a high level.
Saturday morning saw the traditional KILEY Tailgater open and welcoming -- just as our friend, Mike Kiley would have wanted it to be. "Staffing" the site were Mike and Carole's sons Dan and Matt, and his long-time co-host, Sam Cole. Judy and DON FIAUSH were hosting Georgia and JIM HIGGINS and Carolyn and JIM BRUNGARDT; they visited at Kiley's and then moved on to Welsh Family Residence for the ND56 Memorial Mass. Don noted: "we were a bit surprised that it was rather sparsely attended; Judy and I were pleased to see and visit with Bob McGoldrick and his wife Jody - we were with Bob at a Navy school in Georgia in the summer/fall of 1956, and hadn't seen him since; we also visited briefly with Larry Kennedy, Rollie Bernhold, George Dailey and Jim Revord. Frank Kwak's widow, Tecula and her son, Steve, joined us for a walk around campus and a bratwurst. Deacon Jim Revord prepared the liturgy for the Mass celebrated by our ND56 Class Chaplain, Father Tom Chambers, CSC, who gave a very personal and warm homily; Gordon DiRenzo read the list of list of our ND56 Classmates who have died since January, 2008. Revord prepared a Mass Missalette that also included the names of all deceased Classmates. (Copies of the Missalette are available; simply email John Manion with your request.) After the Mass, our BOB WELSH, benefactor of the very popular women's dorm arranged for a group of the Whirlwinds residents to provide t-shirts to our group.
The Buffet Lunch following Mass was held in the upstairs dining room of the South Dining Hall. Treasurer Ed Cosgrove and his wife, Dottie, were there... with the proper list of pre-paid reservations. Some folks may have gotten lost enroute, but ND56 Classmates included John "Gootch"Allen, Fred Brinskelle. Dick Brown, Mark Burns, Don Carlin, Frank Conte, Tom Coonan, George Dailey, Frank Fagan, Jim Hlavin, Lou Malandra, Don Moser, John Murray, Paui Kearney, Jack Kegaly, Larry Kennedy, Paul Noland, Jim Revord, Bob Richards, Matt/Jim Stahl, Frank Tighe; and Classmate widow Joan (Jerry) Shea. Spouses and friends also were in attendance for the social affair.
Larry Kennedy, Chairman of the ND56 Endowed Scholarship Fund announced the three ND students who were selected by the Student Aid staff of the University as meriting the endowed funds for the 2009-10 academic year. This year's ND56 Class honorees introduced are Dan Boland, Mark Burns and Gordon DiRenzo. Boland, a founding Director of Project Sycamore was unable to attend the Mini-Reunion. Brief acceptance remarks were given by Burns, a former Class Co-President, and current Class President DiRenzo. Stories about the three students and their respective honorees will be posted to the ND56 web site, Class News, as they are completed.
DiRenzo shares a note he appreciated receiving from Frank Fagan: "the '56 get together at Welsh Family Residence was outstanding. A very special Thank You to all who helped. It is a great way to see and talk with old friends and to enjoy a lunch away from the crowd. The Mass is a highlight and so well done by Father Tom and Jim. It is a special time to look foreword to on a football weekend. Thanks to you and those who help you. The class of '56 is recognized by so many Domers as a class that will go out of the way to keep the class Close. It is all very much appreciated."
| ND 56 MINI REUNION SEPT 5, 2009 |
 ND56 Mini-Reunion Memorial Mass Deacon Jim Revord and Chaplain Fr. Tom Chambers. Photos by Jim Hlavin |  Buffet Lunch - Benediction with Father Tom; Nell & John Murray. Photos by Jim Hlavin |
 ND56 Endowed Scholarship Presentations Pres. DiRenzo, Fund Chair Kennedy, Honoree Mark Burns. Photos by Jim Hlavin |  Friday 9-4-09 Pep Rally: Dillon Hall, Jimmy Clausen, Charlie Weis, ND Cheerleaders. Photos by Gordon DiRenzo |
Killed in action over VietNam, an ND56 Classmate has been selected for the 2009 Award of the Year by the Notre Dame Club of Peoria IL.
Lt. COl. Harold Joseph Alwan, was a native of Peoria prior to his U.S. Marine service in 1956.
His military record is below -- taken from a newly posted web page http://geocities.com/11bravovet/majoralwan.html created by David Jones as part of his Vietnam web site begun some ten years ago. Lt. Col. Alwan's sister, Mrs. Dianna (Tom) Joseph, has reviewed this information, and is very proud of her brother, and appreciates the consideration of Notre Dame men for this honor. Dianna could not provide information concerning Lt. Col. Alwan's widow nor their four grown children at this time. His wife is Jacqueline Ann, and was later married for some period to Clarence W.Coonce. Hal and Jackie have four children, Natalie J, Michael J, Coroline M, and Siuzanne E.. Hal had three sisters: Mrs. L. Mallow, Mrs. N. Moe, and Mrs. Thomas (Dianna) Joseph. He was posthumously promoted to Lt. Colonel. On June 24, 1974, his MIA status was changed to Determined Death by Flight crash origination Chu Lai Vietnam AFB over water -- signed by Major J.P. Slater, USMC. No remains were ever recovered by the Government, and no crash site was ever established.
A career U.S. Marine, Alwan brings pride to Peoria... having made the greatest sacrifice for his Country. Hal was born in Peoria, IL on August 4, 1934. Pat and Denny Powers were close friends of the Alwans in their early days of Marine service. Denny was a 1952 Classmate of Hal at Spalding Institute in Peoria.
For the details and moving description of Lt. Col Alwan's military record please click on this web address
http://geocities.com/11bravovet/majoralwan.html
Many of us purchased our ND Class Ring some 53 years ago; and some of us purchased the ND Class Ring Miniatures for our engagement at that time. Perhaps, the ring has cracked or the (probably blue spinel) stone has been lost. IF that is the case with you, we have learned from the NOTRE DAME BOOKSTORE that Balfour (the ring manufacturer) guarantees any ND Class Rings... Normal wear on the gold band and engraving is not included under the guarantee. On April 1, 2009, a Classmate sent his ring for Balfour Company, and learned that there is a charge of $50 for re-sizing (for all rings older that 1972), $25 for re-furbishing, plus the $14.95 ...still a pretty good deal!
Package the ring securely; send by insured (for $1000) mail/UPS/FEDex/etc, with your $14.95 check (payable to Balfour Co.) to cover return shipment; a cover letter identifying yourself as Notre Dame alumnus, Class of '56; purchased ring from Notre Dame Bookstore; description of the problem/need; your return address and phone number. Keep your insurance/shipping receipt, and you'll receive a shiney ring back in about a month. Send to:
BALFOUR COMPANY 7211 CIRCLE S ROAD (78745)
P.O. Box 149107
AUSTIN, TX 78714-9107
ATTN: CUSTOMER SERVICE/REPAIR UNIVERSITY OF NOTRE DAME
Please DO NOT skip any of the above steps, and you will be delighted with the service.
John Manion
THANK YOU ND 56 CLASSMATES!
For stories and 100s of photos from Reunion 2006,
please click on the Reunion 2006 Report link --
at the upper right corner of the ND56 WebPage.
It will continue to be a work-in-progress as your comments about Reunion 2006 are invited.
It was a glorious weekend of June 1-4, 2006.
Classmates and their spouses have either learned that they "may have some form of Cancer", or must deal with appropriate procedures for Cancer. The ND56 CSG is comprised of folks of a tight demographic make-up. Classmates can make use of the very private and confidential counsel available in the ND56 Cancer Support Group.
| SIMPLY CONTACT ONE OF THESE PEOPLE. |
|
Rev. Tom Chambers, CSC -- Metairie, LA (Cancer survivor; Class Chaplain) 504-830-3701 |
John F. Murray -- Lakeridge, VA (Cancer patient; survivor ) 703/494-2482; |
| Frank Boos --- North Creek, NY 12853 Lung Cancer/Mespothelioma Patient, 2010. 518-251-2854: |
Don Gothard - Washington, MI 48094-2683 Prostate Cancer Survivor since 2001 586-786-0035; |
| John Manion -- 78402 Silver Sage Dr. Palm Desert, CA 92211-1348 |
Cancer Survivors tell of the necessity of getting an annual PSA or mammogram, and immediately using the knowledge and experiences of participation in the ND56 Cancer Support Group. You won't be TOLD that any procedure is better than another, but you can find out what the options are, and what the after-effects for each may be. Cancer research continues, and new procedures are found. But Cancer continues to kill! If you or your spouse is challenged with any form of Cancer, you need not be alone; not for a moment.
Please write John Manion to become a part of the ND56 CSG; state type of Cancer, date and treatment received, your name, address, phone and e-mail address. We send you a copy of the ND56 CSG Update, including your information.
NO information is available to those outside the ND56 CSG.
Bob Simkins has donated a copy of the '52-'53 Student Manual which was received at his home in Manitowoc, Wis with a note (printed below) from the University folded inside.
Bob has graciously furnished his copy of the 1952 Student Manual. We have scanned it and if you click on the picture of its cover you can read the manual from cover to cover. Thanks to Bob, now you can prove to your Grandkids that you did indeed have "Morning Check" and evening curfews.
Thanks Bob, and as you used to say at WNDU, "that's the three oh mark for tonight"
Dick Yeager
UNIVERSITY OF NOTRE DAME
Notre Dame, Indiana
OFFICE OF PREFECT OF DISCIPLINE
To: Parents of Notre Dame Students
In order that you might have a better understanding of the workings of the University, we are sending the copy of the Student Manual to all parents and guardians of the freshman students at the university. The University Administration believes that the parents can be of untold help to us in encouraging their sons to understand and abide by this Manual. We realize parents of Notre Dame students are our closest aids in achieving the ends and purposes of the University, and in order that we may capitalize on this source of support we believe a full understanding of the University regulations on the part of parents is the best manner to achieve this end.
With best personal regards to you and your family, and with the promise of remembrance in our prayers and Masses, we remain
Sincerely yours, THE COMMITTEE ON DISCIPLINE
The University of Notre Dame
First of all, Thank you all so much for the amazing opportunity your endowment is helping to provide me. Attending the University of Notre Dame is an experience that we can all share without words, but that forms each individual in a unique way. Allow me, then, to share some of my story so far.