IN MEMORIAM
This month is the anniversary
of these Classmates joining
the Ghostly Assemblage
in the Long Gray Line



Howard A. Bais, A-1
 **

27 Apr 1938 - 27 Jan 1979



Anthony B. Brown, M-2
 

14 Aug 1938 - 18 Jan 2016



Thelmo Y. Cunanan, A-2
 **

14 Apr 1938 - 16 Jan 2011



Robert M. Dunning, L-2

10 Nov 1938 - 27 Jan 2021



Travis N. Dyer, B-1

3 Apr 1939 - 20 Jan 2022



Samuel D. Freeman III, D-1
 **

19 Sep 1937 - 7 Jan 1967



Francis L. Gibson, B-1
 **

1 Apr 1939 - 24 Jan 2017



Benjamin C. Glidden, C-2

21 Oct 1938 - 19 Jan 2021



Frank L. Heikkila, C-2
 **

18 Oct 1938 - 17 Jan 2016



Bruce P. Holmberg, C-1
 **

20 Feb 1939 - 26 Jan 2009



Robert L. Janoska, H-1
 

1 Jan 1938 - 25 Jan 2011



Harlan L Kennedy, E-2
 

19 May 1939 - 6 Jan 2000



Henry E. Lilienthal, B-1
 **

10 May 1939 - 11 Jan 1998



James F. X. Looram, D-1
 

24 Jan 1940 - 4 Jan 2020



Robert E. McCarthy, Jr, D-1
 

12 Jan 1940 - 15 Jan 2022



David L. Miller,Jr., L-1
 

8 Jul 1938 - 23 Jan 2021



James J. Roberts, K-1
 **
31 Jul 1938 - 11 Jan 1973



Dennis M. Sams, L-1
 

18 Sep 1937 - 2 Jan 1977



Allen F. Schneider, L-1
 

27 Sep 1935 - 14 Jan 2009



Larry D. Smith, C-1
 

12 Sep 1939 - 28 Jan 2008



William B. Townsend, K-2
 

25 Feb 1939 - 29 Jan 2004



Steven C. Walker, I-2
 

14 Mar 1938 - 29 Jan 2005



Richard F. Wyse, F-2
 

8 Oct 1939 - 29 Jan 2002


"Well done; Be thou at peace."

Click on underlined names
to go their Last Roll Call Tribute.


  Class Business

  Class Leaders

  Profiles

  Hall Fame Inductees

  Oral History Interviews

  Memorial Room Thumb
   By Company

  Recollections from the ladies
   of the Class of 1961

  Prior Features

  60th Reunion Part I
   27 Jan - 1 Feb 2022
  60th Reunion Part II
   19 Jan - 23 Jan 2023

  55th Reunion
  13-18 May 2016

  50th Reunion
   14-18 May 2011

  Class of 2011 Affiliation
 Program

  45th Reunion
   28 Sep - 1 Oct 2006

  40th Reunion
   4 - 7 Oct 2001

  10th Reunion

  Cadet Days




 

Welcome to the
USMA Class of 1961
Web Site

Click here for Latest Class Notes
Send Class Notes to Class Scribe  Martin L. Ganderson at margan6@yahoo.com

Upcoming Class Activities

For more information or to add an event, contact Ed Brown or Sam Weiss

Access to Dropbox Files

Link to the West Point '61 Dropbox folders

You do not need a Dropbox account to access it.

D. Peter Gleichenhaus
"Pete"

Company C-2

20 Jan 1939 - 25 Dec 2024
Place of Death: San Francisco, CA
Interment: Salem Memorial Park, Colma, CA

It is with great regret and sorrow that I must notify you of the death of our Classmate and Class Vice-president, Pete Gleichenhaus, on December 25, 2024, in San Francisco, CA.

Pete is survived by his wife, Barbara; their son, Joseph, and his wife, Lori; their daughter, Wendy Veneris, and her husband, Phil; their daughter, Morissa; and their grandchildren, Max Veneris, Sidney Veneris, David Gleichenhaus, and Noah Gleichenhaus.

Funeral services will be at 10 AM, January 3, 2025, at Congregation Am Tikva, 625 Brotherhood Way, 625 Brotherhood Way, San Francisco, CA 94132 or on zoom, for those unable to attend in person.

Burial will follow at Salem Memorial Park, 1171 El Camino Real, Colma, CA 94014.

Condolences may be sent to Barbara at 1324 Portola Drive, San Francisco, CA 94127-1510.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations in Pete’s memory may be sent to West Point Jewish Chapel Fund, P.O. Box 84, West Point, NY 10996.

Well done, Pete. Be thou at peace.

Click here to go to Pete's Last Roll Call Tribute.

https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/f3/59/33/f359331e7195a829609de06765ee1dce--military-academy-west-point.jpg

 

The 2025 MINI

24-29 January 2025

 

61 Crest - Color - Buckner Revised

 

The Mini is on!!!!!!

Here is what you need to do ASAP

1.  Homework – Read thru this invite and reference material.

2.  RSVP – Fill out the registration to let me know your preferences so that I can get headcounts for rooms and other planning.  Just give me your best estimate at this point.  You can change things later if you need to.

3.  Hotel Reservation.  I will send you instructions how to do this as soon as I can get them from the hotel.  When I do, make the reservation as fast as you can.  Hurricane after action activities have slowed down responses from the hotel.

SO READ ON BY CLICKING HERE...

First Annual WA '61 “Last Man Standing” Luncheon Held 3 December 2024

Charlie Welsh got the 5 of us 61ers together for a “Last Man Standing” luncheon last week.  Will be an annual event – next date is 12 November 25.  Believe we are the only ones left in WA state.  Was fun.  Enjoy the Holidays and Beat Navy!


PS:  Wives are Heather Cameron, Sally Taylor, Jeannie Kirkpatrick and Carolyn Harmon.  Check out that 61 banner….

Thomas W. Paskewitz
"Tom"

Company F-1

26 Aug 1939 - 2 Dec 2024
Place of Death: Princeton, NJ
Interment:Washington Crossing National Cemetery, Newtown, PA

It is with great regret and sorrow that I must notify you of the death of our classmate, Tom Paskewitz, on December 2, 2024, in Princeton, NJ as a result of Lewy body disease.

Tom is survived by his wife, Barbara; their daughter, Mary Beth Bartlett and her husband, John; their son, Mark; their grandchildren, Kira Borlenghi and her husband, Alex, and Justina Hudgens and her husband, John; and their great grandchildren, Luca and Jose.

Funeral services were held on December 7, 2024 at St. Alexander Nevsky Orthodox Church, Allison Park, PA and can be seen at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t0je1RydlIE.

Burial was on December 9, 2024 at the Washington Crossing National Cemetery, Newtown, PA.

Condolences may be sent to Barbara at 4 Ironwood Road, Skillman, NJ  08558-2380.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donation in Tom’s memory be made to St. Basil's House, 5 Valley View Avenue, Gladstone, NJ  07934-2024

Well done, Tom.  Be thou at peace.

Click here to go to Tom's Last Roll Call Tribute.

Beverley E. Powell, Jr

Company B-2

18 Nov 1939 - 1 Dec 2024
Place of Death: Bedford, TX.
Interment:Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery, Dallas, TX

It is with great regret and sorrow that I must notify you of the death of our classmate, Bev Powell, on December 1, 2024 in Bedford, TX.

Bev survived his first wife who passed away in 1997.  Today, he leaves behind his beloved wife, Linda.  Together, they created a loving, blended family of six children and 13 grandchildren.

Visitation will be from 5 to 7 PM on December 9, 2024 at Bluebonnet Hills Funeral Home, 5725 Colleyville Boulevard, Colleyville, TX  76034.

Funeral services will be at 11 AM on December 10, 2024 at Bluebonnet Hills Funeral Home.

A family only internment service will be on December 11, 2024 at Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery.

Condolences may be sent to Linda at 828 Autumnwood Court, Bedford, TX 76021-4329.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations in Bev's memory be sent to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN  38105.

Well done, Bev.  Be thou at peace.

Click here to go to Bev's Last Roll Call Tribute.

Warren B. Schull

Company I-1

18 Feb 1938 - 18 Nov 2024
Place of Death: Jonesboro, AR.
Interment: Blessed Sacrament Columbarium, Jonesboro, AR

It is with great regret and sorrow that I must notify you of the death of our classmate, Warren Shull, on November 18, 2024, in Jonesboro, AR.

Warren is survived by his wife, Martie; their daughter, Mary Keeter, and her husband, John; their daughter, Molli Beaverstock, and her husband, Drew; and their grandchildren, Alex Keeter, Molly Keeter, and Mac Beaverstock.

There will be a Rosary at 6:30 pm followed by visitation on Thursday, November 21, 2024 at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church, 1107 E Highland Drive, Jonesboro, AR  72401.

The funeral Mass will be held at 10:00 am on Friday, November 22, 2024 at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church.

Interment at Blessed Sacrament Columbarium will follow at a later date.

Condolences may be sent to Marti at 2202 Morningside Drive, Jonesboro, AR  72404-8045.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations in Warren’s memory be sent to Blessed Sacrament School Endowment Fund, 1105 E. Highland Drive, Jonesboro, AR  72401 or Kiwanis Club of Jonesboro, P.O. Box 17233, Jonesboro, AR  72403.

Well done, Warren.  Be thou at peace.

Click here to go to Warren's Last Roll Call Tribute.

Gerard H. Clements

Company H-2

22 Jun 1939 - 19 Jun 2024
Place of Death: Dallas, TX
Interment: Dallas National Cemetery

It is with great regret and sorrow that I must notify you of the death of our classmate, Jerry Clements, on June 19, 2024, in Dallas, TX.

Jerry is survived by his daughter, Cristin Miller, and her husband, Brad; his son, Stephen, and his wife, Hope; his son, Jud, and his wife, Helen; his grandchildren, Cole Miller, Carson Cone and her husband Luke, Z Clements, Camden Miller, Hank Clements, Hallie Clements, Charlie Clements, and Sarah Cate Clements; and his great granddaughter, Hensley Carlisle Cone.  He was predeceased by his wife, Pam, who died on December 20, 2023, and their son, Sean.

Jerry was buried in Dallas National Cemetery.

Condolences may be sent to Stephen Clements, 3928 Regent Circle, Dallas, TX  75229.

The family has requested that donations in Jerry's memory be sent to St. Rita Catholic Church, 12521 Inwood Road, Dallas, TX  75244.

Well done, Jerry.  Be thou at peace.

Click here to go to Jerry's Last Roll Call Tribute.

The 2025 Mini Is On - 24-29 January 2025 in Orlando, Fl

The Mini is on!!!!!!

Here is what you need to do ASAP

1.  Homework – Read thru this invite and reference material.

2.  RSVP – Fill out the registration to let me know your preferences so that I can get headcounts for rooms and other planning.  Just give me your best estimate at this point.  You can change things later if you need to.

3.  Hotel Reservation.  Room info below.  Make the reservation as soon as you can.

Use this link to make your reservation.

Contact me if problems.

For More – READ ON

Gunnar C. Carlson, Jr.

Company D-1

7 Apr 1939 - 29 Oct 2024
Place of Death:Las Cruces, NM
Interment: Masonic Cemetery, Las Cruces, NM

It is with great regret and sorrow that I must notify you of the death of our classmate, Gunnar Carlson, on October 29, 2024, in Las Cruces, NM.

Gunnar is survived by his wife, Beverly; his stepson, Daniel McKinney, and his wife, Rebecca; his stepdaughter, Cindy Bookout, and her wife, Jamie; his stepson, Torre Bookout, and his wife, Gwen; and his step grandchild Ariel McKinney.  He was preceded in death by his step granddaughters, Anya and Annalise McKinney.

 

Funeral services will be at 1:00 pm on November 9, 2024, at the Scottish Rite Temple, 195 E Boutz Road, Las Cruces, NM 88005 followed by burial at the Masonic Cemetery, 760 S Compress Road, Las Cruces, NM 88005.

Condolences may be sent to Beverly at 865 Cedardale Drive, Las Cruces, NM  88005.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations in Gunnar’s memory be sent to the Valley of Las Cruces Scottish Rite Learning Center, PO Box 357, Las Cruces, NM  88004.

Well done, Gunnar.  Be thou at peace.

Click here to go to Gunnar's Last Roll Call Tribute.

Robert C. Harrell
"Bob"

Company E-2

8 Jun 1938 - 8 Sep 2023
Place of Death: Spoken, WA
Interment: Cremated.

It is with great regret and sorrow that I must notify you of the death of our classmate, Bob Harrell on 8 September 2023, in Spoken, WA.

Well done, Bob.  Be thou at peace.

Click here to go to Bob's Last Roll Call Tribute.

Bob Hampton's VISITING HISTORIC WEST POINT, NEW YORK

The most complete Vistor's Guide to West Point you have ever seen. Prepared for us by Bob Hampton.

Let’s Review the Bidding for the 65th Reunion

We did a survey a couple of months ago click here to see what the preferences were for where and when.

Golfing Grads 2025, April 28-30 Registration

Registration for 2025 Golfing Grads of USMA will begin on 1 December.  For the third year in a row, the competition will be at Mission Inn Resort, Howley-in-the-Hills, Florida north of Orlando.  The format is outlined below and once again, '61 will be the senior class competing.  So far, Cairns, Clarke, Grannemann, Mallory and Witherspoon are committed.  We need three more players to round out a second foursome.  Interested classmates email Gene Witherspoon (eswitherspoon2015@gmail.com) for more info.

Click here is view Summary - The Formats

 

Robert M. Herrick
"Bob"

Company D-1

7 Oct 1938 - 15 Oct 2024
Place of Death: Naples, FL
Interment: Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, VA

It is with great regret and sorrow that I must notify you of the death of our classmate, Bob Herrick, on October 15, 2024, in Naples, FL, as a result of complication from Lewy body dementia.

Bob is survived by his wife, Jenny; their daughter, Holly Yoders, and her husband, Sam; their daughter, Kelly Deaves, and her husband, Brian; their daughter, Sally Herrick; and their grandchildren, Hope Tschiegg, Harry Yoders, and Frank William Spinelli.

A Celebration of Bob’s life will be held from 2 to 4 PM on November 17th, 2024, in the Main Dining Room of the Stonebridge Country Club, 2100 Winding Oaks Way, Naples, FL 34109.

Burial will be at Arlington National Cemetery on a date to be determined.

Condolences may be sent to Jenny at 24120 S. Tamiami Trail #2303, Bonita Springs, FL  34134.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Bob’s memory be sent to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Boulevard, Staten Island, NY  10306.

Well done, Bob.  Be thou at peace.

Click here to go to Bob's Last Roll Call Tribute.

Second Annual Final Pig Roast 12 Oct 2024 Was a Success

Michelle and George Kopcsak outdid themselves in hosting the Second Annual Final Pig Roast at their Full Circle Farm on 12 October. The lucky attendees included 41 classmates and spouses, as well as children, grandchildren, and neighbors. The guest of honor was a 180-lb hog that George roasted all night. As a bonus, the group helped George celebrate his birthday. It was a grand occasion, and as George says, “pass one up, die one short.”

Video 1 of 2nd Annual Kopcsak Pig Roast at Full Circle Farm
Video 2 of 2nd Annual Kopcsak Pig Roast at Full Circle Farm
Video 3 of 2nd Annual Kopcsak Pig Roast at Full Circle Farm

Go here for more pictures

George D. Lenhart
"Denny"

Company L-2

24 Nov 1936 - 2 Oct 2024
Place of Death: Moraga, CA
Interment: El Carmelo Cemetery, Pacific Grove, CA

It is with great regret and sorrow that I must notify you of the death of our classmate, Denny Lenhart, on October 2, 2024, in Moraga, CA.

Denny is survived by his wife, Kitty; their daughter, Aimee Cassulo, and her husband Frank; their son, Daniel, and his wife, Ayano; and their grandchildren, Ethan and Eleanor Cassulo and Reina and Emma Lenhart.

Denny's Celebration of Life service is at 3 PM on January 4, 2025 at The Grill at Point Pinos, 79 Asilomar Boulevard, Pacific Grove, CA  93950.

Burial will be at El Carmelo Cemetery, 68 Asilomar Ave, Pacific Grove, CA  93950 on a date to be determined.

Condolences may be sent to Kitty at 16 Arroyo Drive, Moraga, CA  94556-1203.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations in Denny’s memory be sent to CSU Foundation, P.O. Box 1870, Fort Collins, CO  80522.  Please include “In Memory of George Dennis Lenhart” and the “French Lenhart Student Veterans Scholarship” on the memo line or in an accompanying note.  Gifts can also be made by calling the CSU Foundation at (970) 491-7135 or via a secure online giving by visiting https://advancing.colostate.edu/GIVE.  Please type 086163 in the designation field, select French Lenhart Student Veterans Scholarship, and use the “Include Tribute” section to indicate this gift is in memory of George Dennis Lenhart.

Well done, Denny. Be thou at peace.

Click here to go to Denny's Last Roll Call Tribute.

Thomas R. Gordon
"Tom"

Company B-2

29 Apr 39 - 2 Sep 24
Place of Death: Clearwater, FL

Interment: Bay Pines National Cemetery, Petersburg, FL

It is with great regret and sorrow that I must notify you of the death of our classmate, Tom Gordon, on September 2, 2024, in Clearwater, FL. His wife of 57 years, Francy, was by his side.

Tom is survived by his wife, Francy; their son, Thomas, Jr., and his wife, Sarah; their son Steven and his wife, Sarah; their son, Robert (USMA 2000), and his wife, Mariangela; their grandchildren, Joseantonio, Hayden, Justin, Tyler, Brooke, Claire, Jillian, Mia, Abigail, Blake, and Teagan.

Visitation and Celebration of Life will be at 2:30 PM on September 13, 2024, at Memorial Park Funeral Home, 5750 49th Street N, St. Petersburg, FL  33709.

Burial will be at a time and date to be determined at Bay Pines National Cemetery, 10000 Bay Pines Boulevard, St. Petersburg, FL  33708.

Condolences may be sent to Francy at 13883 Tern Lane, Clearwater, FL  33762-4553

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Tom’s memory be sent to the Veteran’s organization of your choosing, in honor of Tom's faithful service to our Nation. 

Well done, Tom.  Be thou at peace.

Click here to go to Tom's Last Roll Call Tribute.

Donald L. McBee
"Don"

Company F-1

16 Sep 1936 - 29 Aug 2024
Place of Death: Grand Junction, CO
Interment: First Presbyterian of Grand Junction, Grand Junction, CO

It is with great regret and sorrow that I must notify you of the death of our classmate, Don McBee, on August 29, 2024, in Grand Junction, CO, as a result of Parkinson’s disease.

Don is survived by his wife, Janis; their daughter, Stephanie Fowler and her husband Andrew; their daughter, Deanna McBee Galanis; their grandchildren, Hannah Murphy Fowler and her husband Mac Murphy Fowler, Matthew Fowler, Joshua Fowler, Mason Galanis, and Paige Galanis; and great grandchild, Naya Murphy Fowler.  He was predeceased by his son, Derek.

A private memorial service will be held at First Presbyterian Church, Grand Junction, CO, followed by interment in the memorial wall at the church.

Condolences may be sent to Janis at 773 25 ¾ Road, Grand Junction, CO  81505-9507. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations in Don’s memory be sent to Gift Operations, West Point Association of Graduates, 698 Mills Road, West Point, NY  10996 – make checks payable to West Point Association of Graduates and designate The Long Gray Line Fund in the check’s memo section.

Well done, Don.  Be thou at peace. 

Click here to go to Don's Last Roll Call Tribute.

Richard H. Fanning
"Dick"

Company I-1

20 Nov 1939 - 14 Aug 2024
Place of Death:Minneapolis, MN
Interment: TBD

It is with great regret and sorrow that I must notify you of the death of our classmate, Dick Fanning, on August 14, 2024 in Minneapolis, MN.

Dick is survived by his daughter, Kathy, and her husband, Bob; his daughter, Gail; his son Rick; his son, Andrew and his wife, Molly; his son, David and his wife, Perla; his daughter, Karen; and his grandchildren, C.B., Amanda, Sean, Kevin, Kyle, Felipe, Casey, and Sofia.  He was predeceased by his wife, Mille, and sons, Matthew and James.

A celebration of life and veterans memorial service was held on 22 August 2024 at Kapala-Glodek-Malone Funeral Home, 7800 Bass Lake Road, New Hope, MN.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations in Dick’s memory be sent to the Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, KS  66675-8516.

Well done, Dick.  Be thou at peace.

Click here to go to Dick's's Last Roll Call Tribute.

https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/f3/59/33/f359331e7195a829609de06765ee1dce--military-academy-west-point.jpg

 

The 2025 MINI

24-29 January 2025

 

61 Crest - Color - Buckner Revised

 

The Mini is on!!!!!!

Here is what you need to do ASAP

1.  Homework – Read thru this invite and reference material.

2.  RSVP – Fill out the registration to let me know your preferences so that I can get headcounts for rooms and other planning.  Just give me your best estimate at this point.  You can change things later if you need to.

3.  Hotel Reservation.  I will send you instructions how to do this as soon as I can get them from the hotel.  When I do, make the reservation as fast as you can.  Hurricane after action activities have slowed down responses from the hotel.

SO READ ON BY CLICKING HERE...

Podcast: A Lifetime of Service with Lee Anderson '61

Podcast: A Lifetime of Service with Lee Anderson '61 - West Point Association of Graduates (westpointaog.org)

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Lee Anderson, Class of 1961, as we explore his remarkable journey from his childhood in Minneapolis to his influential career and philanthropic efforts. Anderson shares intimate details of his upbringing with his father’s transformation from an orphaned Swedish immigrant to a successful plumber and his mother’s time in an orphanage. Discover how his father and half brother led him to West Point, setting the stage for a life of leadership and service. Anderson reflects on his formative years at West Point, significant mentors, athletic achievements in basketball, and his deep appreciation for his classmates, which instilled in him resilience and teamwork.

Click here for full story.

From 27 July to 3 August 2024 a Selection of Classmates and Their Halves Cruised Around Iceland Aboard the Viking Mars


From 27 July to 3 August a distinguished selection of classmates and their much better halves cruised around Iceland aboard the Viking Mars. Iceland is a fascinating country and the cruise experience could not have been better(no one lost weight). Those enjoying the week together were Marty Ganderson and Paula, Witherspoon, Kopcsaks, Fishburnes (including two lovely daughters), Fritz’s, Grisonis, Javas, Hansells, and Eilands.

Grigg '61 Named Distinguished Member by American Society of Civil Engineers


Neil Grigg displays the “Ground Water Atlas of Colorado” which he authored

Neil Grigg '61 was first introduced to the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) as a graduate student at Auburn University in Alabama. Knowing he planned to pursue a career in civil engineering, he thought joining a professional organization in the field would be a good idea.  

Sixty years later, ASCE has named Grigg a “Distinguished Member,” the society’s highest honor for a member. 

ASCE recognized Grigg for “his extraordinary contributions in water resources management, integrating physical, statistical, economic, social, legal, and political factors to solve complex problems, sharing his knowledge through publishing seminar papers and books, technology transfer, and mentoring colleagues, and students around the world.” 

Read here for more about this award.

July 2024 Mini-Mini Reunion

Dick Clarke Wayne Ploger Sam Enfield have mini-mini lunch today in Fredricksburg VA

Members of the Class of ‘61 Bid a Final Farewell to Mick Maus

Thirteen members of the Class of ‘61 gathered at the West Point Cemetery on 15 July to bid a final farewell to Mick Maus. Well done, Mick. Be thou at peace.


L-R are: Rod Grannemann and daughter Tori; Bruce Seidel; Teri Grisoni; John Kilkenny; Coralinn Maus; Mike Eiland; John Grisoni; Will Conley; Pat Shroyer; Leigh Majors (Bill Griffith’s daughter); Kathy Conley; and Chan Eiland.

James S. Blesse
"Jim"

Company A-2

16 Sep 1939 - 11 Jul 2024
Place of Death: Fort Monroe, VA
Interment: Arlington National Cemetery on a date to be determined.

It is with great regret and sorrow that I must notify you of the death of our classmate, Jim Blesse, on July 11, 2024, in Fort Monroe, VA from prostate cancer.

Jim is survived by his wife, Bobbie; his son, Joseph, and his wife, Susie; his daughter, Debra; his son, Steven, and his wife, Lisa; his stepdaughter, Meg Souder and her partner, John Williams; his stepson, Bryan Souder, and his wife, Stephanie; his grandchildren, Jacob, Logan, Claire, and Joseph; and his step-grandchildren, Hannah, Grace, and Eleanor.

Jim Blesse's funeral service will be at 11 AM, 23 August, at Christ Episcopal Church, 111 S Church Street, Smithfield, VA  23430.

Burial will be at Arlington National Cemetery on a date to be determined.

Condolences may be sent to Bobbie at 2 Fenwick Road, # 609, Fort Monroe, VA  23651-1130.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations in Jim’s memory be sent to the American Battlefield Trust, 1156 15th Street NW, Suite 900, Washington, DC  20005.

Well done, Jim.  Be thou at peace.

Click here to go to Jim's Last Roll Call Tribute.

The Texas Panhandle War Memorial in Amarillo commissioned this video tribute to Ron Hines

The Texas Panhandle War Memorial in Amarillo commissioned this video tribute to Ron Hines, a native of the Panhandle who was one of our first classmates to give his life in Vietnam — 26 April 1964. Ron’s fellow mule rider, Rod Grannemann, was instrumental in the project.

MediaEnhancementsGroup.com - Our Latest Documentary

 

 

 

Gail P. Burchell

Company D-1

10 Dec 1938 - 5 Jun 2024
Place of Death: Lebanon, OR
Interment: Cremated

It is with great regret and sorrow that I must notify you of the death of our classmate, Gail Burchell, on June 5, 2024, in Lebanon, OR.

Gail is survived by his wife, Patti; his children, Anne, Mara (Howard), Cynthia (Edward), and Theresa; his stepchildren, Sherri (Mark), Linda (Scott), Dawna (William), Richard (Andrea), Jason (Wendy), and J; his many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and his former wife, Margaret.

Gail's Memorial Service will be at 1 PM, August 31, 2024, at American Legion Santiam Post 51, 480 Main Street, Lebanon OR 97355.

Gail’s family will spread his ashes according to his wishes.

Condolences may be sent to Patti at 22 N. 5th Street, Lebanon, OR  97355-2709.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations in Gail’s memory be sent to SMART Reading, 101 SW Market Street, Portland, OR  97201.

Well done, Gail.  Be thou at peace.

Click here to go to Gail's Last Roll Call Tribute.

John Solomon will be inducted into the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund (VVMF)

John Solomon will be inducted into the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund (VVMF) In Memory Program at 10 AM, June 15, 2024, at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. John’s Honor Roll page is at https://www.vvmf.org/Honor-Roll/502590/John-K-Solomon/.

Information on the VVMF In Memory Program is at https://www.vvmf.org/In-Memory-Program/.

Thomas K. Mercer
"Tom"

Company G-1

13 Jun 1939 - 17 Mar 2023
Place of Death: Dallas, TX
Interment: Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, VA

It is with great regret and sorrow that I must notify you of the death of our classmate, Tom Mercer, on March 17, 2023, in Dallas, TX, as a result of advanced Alzheimer’s disease.

Tom is survived by his wife, Cheryl; his daughter, Sandra Kathleen Muse, her husband, David, and their children, Corey and Jeremy Muse; his daughter, Debra Jean Cifone, her husband, Rocky, and their children, J.R. and Tommy Cifone; his step-son, Leonard Scott Schroeder and his daughter, Haley Schroeder; his step-daughter, Jill Elizabeth Schroeder, and her children, Niccolas Schroeder, and Dylan and Julia Alderete; their son, Alexander Thomas Mercer, his wife, Lindsay, and their children, Henry and Charlotte Mercer.

Funeral services will be at Arlington National Cemetery on a date to be determined.

Condolences may be sent to Cheryl at 5817 Penrose Avenue, Dallas, TX  75206-5519. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations in Tom’s memory be sent to the West Point Association of Graduates, Attn: Gift Operations, 698 Mills Road, West Point, NY  10996.  In the check’s memo section enter Superintendent’s Annual Fund.

Well done, Tom.  Be thou at peace.

Click here to go to Tom's Last Roll Call Tribute.

Reynold M. Maus
"Mick"

Company A-1

22 Sep 1939 - 23 Apr 2024
Place of Death: McKinney, TX
Interment: West Point Cemetery, West Point, NY

It is with great regret and sorrow that I must notify you of the death of our classmate, Mick Maus, on April 23, 2024, in McKinney, TX, as a result of pancreatic cancer. 

Mick is survived by his wife, Coralinn; their son, Mike (USMA ’87) and his wife Eileen; their daughter, Cynthia Maus; their daughter, Christine Kerlin and her husband Stephen; their grandchildren, Michael Maus and his wife Melissa, Alexis Maus, Jamie Maus, Caleb Kilpatrick (USMA ’19), Samantha Kilpatrick, Abigail Kilpatrick, Paul Kerlin, and Daniel Kerlin; and their great granddaughter, Isla Maus. 

A memorial service will be held at 10:00 AM, Friday, May 3, 2024 at St. Gabriel Catholic Church, 110 St Gabriel Way, McKinney, TX  75071.  The service will also be live streamed at stgabriel.org/funerals-online.  

The funeral for Mick Maus is at 1:30 PM, July 15, 2024, at the Old Cadet Chapel, West Point, NY, with burial to follow in the West Point Cemetery.  Those attending should meet NLT 1:00 PM at the Visitors Control Center located in the West Point Visitors Center in Highland Falls.

So far, Will and Kathy Conley, Mike and Chan Eiland, Rod Grannemann and daughter Tori, John and Teri Grisoni, John Kilkenny, and Pat Shroyer are planning to attend.

If you plan to attend, please RSVP by reply e-mail as soon as possible.Condolences may be sent to Coralinn at 7402 Round Hill Road, McKinney, TX  75070-5701. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations in Mick’s memory be sent to Subiaco Academy and Abbey, 405 North Subiaco Avenue, Subiaco, AR  72865.  Please write “In Memory of Mike Maus” in the check’s memo section. 

Well done, Mick.  Be thou at peace.

Click here to go to Mick's Last Roll Call Tribute.

Arlen C.T. Miller

Company L-2

12 Aug 1939 - 10 Apr 2024
Place of Death: Cuyahoga Falls, OH
Interment: TBD

It is with great regret and sorrow that I must notify you of the death of our classmate, Arlie Miller, on April 10, 2024, in Cuyahoga Falls, OH. 

Arlie is survived by his daughter, Deborah McClure; his son, David, and his wife, Tracy; his son, Douglas, and his wife, Robin; and his grandchildren, Nicklas Miller, and Spencer, Bryce, and Bryan McClure.  He was predeceased by his wife, Susan, and their grandson, Ricky Fraley. 

A Memorial Service was held on April 20, 2024 at Clifford Shoemaker Funeral Home, 1930 Front Street, Cuyahoga Falls, OH  44221. 

Condolences may be sent to Deborah McClure at 5005 Portland Cv, Stow, OH  44224. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations in Arlen’s memory be sent to Christ Community Chapel, 750 W Streetsboro Street, Hudson, OH  44236. 

Well done, Arlen.  Be thou at peace.

Click here to go to Arlen's Last Roll Call Tribute.

Eggleston ’61 Releases “Second to None: The West Point Class of 1961”

Mike Eggleston ’61 and members of his Class of 1961 have produced a book about their class history. The book tells the history of the West Point Class of 1961 over the past 63 years. These classmates have a long list of accomplishments, and some members of the class are recognized internationally. Some of members of the West Point Class of 1961 have published books and others have written articles. These are included in the bibliography, and excerpts are included in this history.

The book largely focuses on Vietnam since nearly all members of the Class of 1961 on active duty at that time served there, but members also served in other conflicts during the Cold War and beyond.

George L. Shamblee

Company B-2

19 Dec 1937 - 8 Mar 2024
Place of Death: Saint Augustine, FL
Interment: Cremated. West Point Cemetery, West Point, NY

It is with great regret and sorrow that I must notify you of the death of our classmate, George Shamblee, on March 8, 2024 in St. Augustine, FL.

George is survived by his son, Christopher; his daughter, Kimberly Hill, and her husband, Chris; and his granddaughters, Olivia and Ella.  He is also survived by his former wife, Priscilla.

A Celebration of Life was held on March 29, 2024 at the Emerald Coast Funeral Home, 161 Racetrack Rd NW, Fort Walton Beach, FL  32547.

A funeral service will be held at the Old Cadet Chapel, West Point, NY, at 10 AM on June 3, 2024, followed by burial in the West Point Cemetery.

Those attending should meet NLT 9:30 AM at the Visitors Control Center located in the West Point Visitors Center in Highland Falls.

Condolences may be sent to Kimberly at 1712 E Cobblestone Lane, St. Augustine, FL  32092-3601.

In lieu of flowers, donations in George’s memory may be sent to West Point Chaplain Tithes and Offerings Fund, 692 Biddle Loop, West Point NY  10996 or the AOG Memorial Support Program.

Well done, George.  Be thou at peace.

Click here to go to George's Last Roll Call Tribute.

Gustav H. Stiehl, IV
"Gus"

Company F-1

21 Nov 1939 - 2 Feb 2024
Place of Death: Sun City West, AZ
Interment: TBD

It is with great regret and sorrow that I must notify you of the death of our classmate, Gus Stiehl, on February 2, 2024, in Sun City West, AZ. 

Gus is survived by his wife, Charlotte; Michael (son) and Laura (daughter-in-law), Ryan (grandson) and Breeana (wife), and Nathan (grandson); Steven (son) and Jennifer (daughter-in-law), Kendall (grandson), and Kate (granddaughter); Diane (daughter) and Todd (grandson); and Cynthia (daughter) and Andy (son-in-law), Matthew (grandson), and Jacob (grandson). 

A Celebration of Life Service was held on April 6, 2024, at Advent Episcopal Church, Sun City West, AZ. 

Burial plans are pending. 

Condolences may be set to Charlotte at 13919 W. Gable Hill Drive, Sun City West, AZ  85375-5504. 

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations in Gus's memory be sent to Advent Episcopal Church, 13150 W Spanish Garden Drive, Sun City West, AZ  85375 or the American Heart Association, PO Box 840692, Dallas, TX 75284-0692

Well done, Gus.  Be thou at peace.

Click here to go to Gus's Last Roll Call Tribute.

AOG Has Established a Full-time Staff Position to Assist Grads & Family in Getting Benefits From Dept of Veterans Affairs (VA)

Jim Nicholson has sent us this important information. 

Thanks to the good leadership of the AOG, they have been successful in establishing a full-time staff position there whose only responsibility is to assist graduates and their family survivors in understanding and obtaining benefits that may be due to them from the Dept of Veterans Affairs (VA).

The current occupant of this job is Sue Irons (Class of ’89).  Sue has a strong background in VA benefits, and possesses a great attitude about helping people navigate the sometimes complex VA benefits system. 

Additionally, Sue has agreed to schedule a zoom call with members of our class, if desired, to enhance their awareness of possible VA benefits.  Sue is also available to assist people on an individual basis. 

Her telephone number is: 845-446-1623.  Her email is: sue.irons@wpaog.org

This is a very good move on the part of the AOG, and it will prove to be very helpful.

Highlights From the Mini Reunion in Charleston 17-22 Mar 2024

Joe Fishburne and Gary Hyde planned and executed an outstanding mini reunion for the Class of 1961 in Charleston, SC (actually Mount Pleasant, SC) during the third week of March. This is an outline of activities during the week.

Interestingly, all but three cadet companies were represented by someone. F-1, A-2 and F-2 were missing. There were 39 from the first regiment and 35 from second. D-1 had the most there (9) with the Browns, Denneys, Lelands, Whites and Carol Jean MacLean. I-2 was next (8) with the Jones, Kovacs, Oaks and Trish Buckner and Ann Marie. 

I don’t think Joe Fishburne and Gary Hyde could have picked a more convenient hotel than the Homewood Suites in Mt Pleasant. It was right across the street from multiple restaurants and shops, all in easy walking distance. The hotel breakfast was good, the evening meals Joe had coordinated with a caterer were outstanding and the hospitality room accommodated our group nicely. Gary had brought his sound system along with enough West Point memorabilia to fill the tables with things to occupy spare time. I should mention that both Joe and Gary were in M-1 together. 

Go here for more details and pictures.

2024 Founder’s Day Festivities at Heritage Hunt in Gainesville, VA

On 10 March, 23 classmates, spouses, widows, and offspring attended the Founder’s Day festivities at Heritage Hunt in Gainesville, VA. As usual, the West Point Alumni Glee Club put on a stellar performance, highlighted by a solo performance by Greg Parks ’52. The meal was outstanding, but the best part of the evening was the bonding and fellowship.

'61 Classmates and Wives Gathered at West Point to Bid Farewell to Pete Boylan

On 29 February classmates and wives gathered at West Point to bid farewell to Pete Boylan, along with a large number of Pete’s family and descendants. Pete was accorded full honors, including a 13-gun salute. The Superintendent attended the Mass and subsequent ceremonies at the cemetery, and presented the flag to Karen Boylan. He broke from the usual script to acknowledge Pete’s bond with his ’61 classmates. The funeral services were followed by sharing of stories and reminiscences at Eisenhower Hall.

Attendees pictured are, L-R: Ed Leland, Teri and John Grisoni, Rod Grannemann, Mike Eiland, Dawn and Bob Glass, Kathy Boylan, John Kilkenny, Karen and George Joulwan.

Donald H. Lewis
"Don"

Company E-2

10 Nov 1937 - 1 Mar 2024
Place of Death: Evans, GA
Interment: West Point Cemetery, West Point, NY

It is with great regret and sorrow that I must inform you of the death of our classmate, Don Lewis, on March 1, 2024 In Evans, GA.

Don is survived by his daughter, Sandra Knezevich and her husband Michael; their son, Donald and his wife Edith; their daughter, Keri Monteith; their son, Jeffrey and his wife Jennifer; and their grandchildren, Shelton Lewis, Raven Lewis, Brayton Lewis, Harrison Monteith, Sullivan Monteith, Cooper Lewis, and Benjamin Lewis.

A memorial service with military honors will be held at 11:00 AM on March 18, 2024 at Christ Church Presbyterian, 4201 Southern Pines Drive, Evans, GA  30809.

The funeral for Don and his wife Pat, who died on April 3, 2024, will be at 10 AM, October 28, 2024, at the West Point Cemetery,  Those attending should meet NLT 9:30 AM at the Visitors Control Center located in the West Point Visitors Center in Highland Falls.

 

Condolences may be set to Pat at 4275 Owens Road, Apt 2325, Evans, GA  30809-4063.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations in Don’s memory be sent to the American Junior Golf Association Foundation, 1980 Sports Club Drive, Braselton, GA  30517; the West Point Association of Graduates, Attn:  Gift Operations, 698 Mills Road, West Point, NY  10996 (write Army Football Team Endowment in the check’s memo section); or Christ Church Presbyterian, 4201 Southern Pines Drive, Evans, GA  30809.

Well done, Don.  Be thou at peace.

Click here to go to Don's Last Roll Call Tribute.

Rings of Classmates of '61 Donated to 2024 Ring Melt

The five donors to the 2024 Ring Melt from the Class of 1961 begin at about the 1:02 mark during this youtube of the event. The five donors were Garretson, Geiger, Scivoletto, Sherburne, and Vick.

For more about this year's Ring Melt read this article.

New Recollections from the Ladies of the Class of 1961 Feature Here

Ladies and Gentlemen of the Class of 1961: What you may how read in our Class Website are responses to a pursuit in the making over the past few years. Aided by several of our ‘mates and Ladies, we now will include the Recollections from the Ladies or click on the Recollections from the Ladies of the Class of 1961 tab in the left column of this page.

Time to Focus on Preparing Memorial Articles for the 2023 TAPS

Now that the suspense for the 2022 edition of TAPS has passed, it is time focus on preparing memorial articles for the 2023 edition.  As of today, memorial articles have been published for 115 of our 227 deceased graduate classmates.  Attached is the list of the 112 without articles.  The suspense for submission of articles for the 2023 edition of TAPS is 28 February 2023.

If you would like to write a memorial article, please review the Guidelines for Writers of Memorial ArticlesNote that the article’s author is required to obtain the next of kin’s written approval of the article. Without approval, the article cannot be published.  However, if no relatives are found after a reasonable, good faith search, the author may obtain approval from the graduate’s class president.  I have next-of-kin contact information for 97 of the 112.

You could also write your own memorial article to save the burden on your survivors.  At a minimum, you should complete the Autobiographical Data in Support of Future Memorial Articles and send it to the AOG to assist the person who will write your memorial article.

This is a list of our Classmates that do not yet have a published TAPS article.

Memorial & Family Planning Documents

The Class of 1961 Memorial Article Project has now made the appropriate AOG Forms available for your use. Click here to go to the Class Website article that explains what is available and has links to the documents.

AOG Announces The Rockbound Highland Home Program Welcoming Grads Home

Who says you can’t go home again? For 47 months, West Point was your home—through Beast Barracks, Mess Hall meals, clubs and team experiences, competitions on the fields of friendly strife, the Indoor Obstacle Course, graduation, and even the gloom period.

Most alumni love to visit their alma maters, and West Point graduates are certainly no exception. However, because the Academy is on an active-duty Army post, gaining access and touring West Point present unique challenges.

To enhance services for the Long Gray Line, the West Point Association of Graduates has launched The Rockbound Highland Home Program, a new program ensuring that every graduate coming back home to the Academy is welcomed in the special way that family should be.

The Rockbound Highland Home Program was created exclusively for USMA graduates and is designed to assist you in navigating post security procedures, offer special access to select MWR (Morale, Welfare, and Recreation) facilities and services, and provide “insider” tours for you and your guests. For information on how to support the Rockbound Highland Home Program and other WPAOG initiatives, click here.  

For more information on each aspect of this program, please click below or contact:
Program Coordinator: Lindsey Eisenlohr,
Phone: 845.446.1622
Email at RockboundHighlandHome@wpaog.org  

Grad Insider Tour

The exclusive Rockbound Highland Home Grad Insider Tour includes a series of tour stops not available to the public and allows graduates to share unique experiences of West Point with their families and guests.

Depending on the chosen tour time, you could have the opportunity to visit: the Cadet Mess in Washington Hall, Jefferson Library, Thayer Award Room, Army Sports Hall of Fame in Kenna Hall/Kimsey Center, Arvin Cadet Physical Development Center (ACPDC), or the Cadet Uniform Factory.

Please LOGIN to view the link for the Rockbound Highland Home Reservation site.

You must be a graduate to access the site.

Grad Insider Tours

Grad Insider Tours will be conducted twice a day Monday through Friday at 9:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. and must be reserved at least three days in advance. Schedule of home football Fridays varies. Please allow two to two-and-a-half hours for the tour. Please also be prepared to walk approximately two miles and maneuver stairs.

WPAOG will provide transportation for the Grad Insider Tour, which will begin and conclude at Herbert Hall (698 Mills Road). Vehicle size and exclusive arrangements with USMA restrict tour size to 10 participants. A fee of $25 per graduate and $10 per guest will be collected when reserving your spot on a Grad Insider Tour.

Please Note: At least one graduate ticket must be purchased for your group. A graduate MUST be present in your group on your tour. Tours are for graduates' leisure purposes only.

For information on how to support the Rockbound Highland Home Program and other WPAOG initiatives, click here.

Should You Be Enrolled Into The National Purple Heart Hall of Honor - Consider

The National Purple Heart Hall of Honor, located in New Windsor NY, commemorates Purple Heart recipients through its Roll of Honor, a database of Purple Heart recipients representing all wars for which the award has been available. All enrollments are done voluntarily and are made by recipients, their families or friends. There is no comprehensive list of recipients maintained by the US Government.

The Roll of Honor is viewable both in the Hall of Honor and on-line. The version that is viewable in the Hall allows for a total of six screens per recipient. Profiles can contain pictures as well as written narratives of the experience of the recipient. The on-line version is an abbreviated, single page commemoration for each recipient and can be viewed from any computer via the National Purple Heart Hall of Honor website, www.thepurpleheart.com

According to information gathered from the 2010 Register of Graduates and the 50th Anniversary Yearbook questionnaires, at least 50 classmates have received 64 awards of the Purple Heart. I have compared this information with that on the National Purple Heart Hall of Honor website and believe that only 5 classmates are included in the current Roll of Honor.

If you are a Purple Heart recipient, I encourage you to complete and submit the necessary enrollment information that can be found at www.thepurpleheart.com/enrollment.

50th Reunion Class Gift Presentation Given to the Center for Oral History

The West Point Center for Oral History is dedicated to archiving the story of the American soldier, in both war and peace. It will record the professional experiences of West Point graduates and other accomplished soldiers, along with others who have had a prominent role in shaping history, such as former Secretaries of Defense and State, Congressmen, and Senators.

Established in Spring 2005 and supported by leadership funding from the Francis Sehn Family and the Class of 1961 and Class of 1967. During the Class of 1961 50th Reunion in 2011 the Center for Oral History was presented a gift of $1,000,000.

Visit the COH website to watch some remarkable videos.

40th Reunion Class Gift of Reconciliation Plaza at West Point Described on Web Site

The Historical Marker Database is a web site providing information about many national monuments. Reconciliation Plaza, our Class Gift to West Point, is described in great detail. The web site is well worth viewing at:www.hmdb.org/marker.asp marker=35359

Click here for pictures of Reconciliation Plaza.

June Week 1961 and Related Activities from July 1961 Assembly Now Available Online

ASSEMBLYY Magazine and various other historical reports on a web site that allows you to access and download articles and information. Copies of ASSEMBLY from 1942-1993 are currently available.

Click here for the archived issues of Assembly

Click here for the Summer 1961 issue. You will find it very interesting. There may be a problem for some as the huge file is 72MB.

In Remembrance:

Classmates can send their remembrances, comments, pictures to Sam Weiss and they will be edited for inclusion with the Last Roll Call Tribute for that person.

Current Profiles

In order to create a “Current Profile” for every member of the class, graduates and former members of 1961, we need your input. If you are interested in participating, email your “vita” information to Sam Weiss with photos in "jpg" format, if you can.  If your profile is already online, check to make sure it is up-to-date and send us any changes or additions.

Prior Features

In order to keep this page more current with items of interest to the Class, after a reasonable length of time items will be moved to the PRIOR FEATURES Page (click here to go to them).

If you have any announcements of interest to other Classmates, comments, questions, or suggestions, please e-mail them to Sam Weiss.

Number of times this page has been accessed since 4/09/2023

DISCLAIMER: This private organization is a non-Federal entity organized by graduates of the United States Military Academy. Non-Federal entities may not be endorsed by the United States Army or the Department of Defense. As such, the views of this private organization are not to be considered as the official views of the United States Military Academy.


 

 

 

 

WEST POINT

Long ago when this Country was new
Our forefathers said here’s what we must do.

We must find a place where young men can be
Trained to serve this great country.

West Point was chosen as the place
Where they learned to serve with honor and grace.

They were taught to serve, and only then
Were they sent to become leaders of men.

Duty, Honor, Country for all time
The world is encircled by The Long Gray Line.

By Joan Seibert
in honor of the Class of 1961 50th Reunion

 

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