11/26/2015 (2318)

    Happy Birthday Randi Mongeon (’68): Chaska, MN
Mongeon, Randi 2318


Betty (Hackman) Schmidt (68) Passed away
Message from Larry Hackman (’66):  Bismarck, ND

Betty my dear sister went home to be with our lord on 11-22-2015 after suffering a severe heart attack.

At her bedside at the time of her death were husband, Gordon and their four children, Pam, Penny, Gordon Jr., and Keri.

Betty born Mar. 22, 1950  Died Nov. 22, 2015

Larry, We are so sadden to hear of Betty’s passing. Our condolences are with you and all of her family. She will be missed.

 

Thanksgiving

I want to wish each and every one of you a happy thanksgiving with turkey, ham and all the trimmings.

We too here in Cebu will be celebrating a Traditional Thanksgiving dinner at the Waterfront Hotel. We asked them to prepare a special Thanksgiving Menu for our Cebu Expat group of which they agreed to do. Their maximum seating capacity is 240. As of this morning I have 232 folks signed up to attend. They are not taking reservations from any others and they are not allowing any walk-ins, so we have the whole place reserved just for our group.  To get their special rate we are having to have our dinner on Friday, but that is OK because we are a day ahead of the states in time.

                                         Cebu Waterfront Hotel
Stokes-1

Cebu Waterfront Hotel Main Dinning Buffet
Stokes-2

 

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Blog (387) posted on March 5 , 2009

03/05/2009

Rememberance of the Stickland family from Tom Hagen (51):
Mesa, AZ, Williston, ND & Allegany, NY
Hi, Gary, My sister, Joyce, my brother , Leland, and I along with
Robert Aamodt, Norman Haagenson, and our nephew , Don Nelson lived with
Bob Stickland and his wife Irene for 2 years while I went to high
school, Joyce worked at Hosmers, and Don attended 1st grade in Dunseith.
If you don’t mind I’ll direct this next part to Leland, Darryl and Dean
Stickland.Greetings Stickland brothers, this is Tom Hagen, who used to live
upstairs at your house in Dunseith. Many times I took care of you
boys, (we won’t call it baby sitting). Your Dad grew up with my
brothers and sisters going to Beaver Dam and our families were
intertwined through the years. He was a great person as was your Mom
and we enjoyed our stay while going to school in Dunseith. You have
our sympathies on the loss of your dad. I would really enjoy hearing
from you . My wife and I are retired from teaching in 1990 and we have
1 son, (9 kids) and 1 daughter (4 sons).

Thanks Gary!!!

We love E-mail letters, Love Tom and Dot

Condolences to the Stickland Family from Connie Fauske Monte (62): Kalama, WA
My condolences to the Stickland Family. I have good memories of you all. I used to babysat you kids real often, in-fact you were my first “sitting” experience. Dean wasn’t more that a couple weeks old when I sat for him. Leland, I don’t know if you remember this, but one time I was being chased by a dog on my way home from school for lunch, you came running out and chased him away with a stick, whew.
Again, our thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Connie Fauske Monte
Reply from Verena (Pete) Gillis (65): Dunseith, ND
> Gary,
Thank you so much for the compliment. I enjoy being able to make someone
happy and love what I do and will keep on a’truckin’ until my body says,
“hey girl, time to slow down.” lol
Reply from Les Halvorson (Former DHS Teacher): Bottineau, ND
Hi Gary and Everyone,
In response to Verena’s note regarding the District 11 Boys BB
tournament held at Dunseith ; I announced all 11 games of the
tournament on KBTO ..Sunny 101.9 and Verena was right…the Dunseith
School and community did a super job of hosting this tournament. I
have covered hundreds of tournaments over the past 30 years and the
Dunseith folks can be very proud..every aspect of putting on a
tournament was done to perfection.The hospitality room Verena referred to was the best I’ve ever seen.
I learned years ago that when it comes to food no one does it better
than folks from Dunseith. I made it an appoint to get to the gym
early on Monday, the final day of the tournament, so I could stop in
there and sample the stew, home made pies and all kinds of other
goodies. I had to go on the air at 2:45 on Friday and Sat. and at
4:15 on Monday so would not get a chance to get back in there as I did
4 games back to back the first two days and 3 in a row on Monday but
each day at 6:00 up would come Jimmy DeCoteau with a platter filled
with all kinds of delicious goodies from the hospitality room. Thank
you ,Jim, and thanks to Cheryl LaFloe, Verena, Gladys Azure, and to
all those who made and brought in all that great food.

Thanks to tournament manager, Jorgen Knutson and his sec. Cheryl
Norquay,… Dunseith school administrators..Lana DeCoteau, Pat
Brenden, and Rebecca Bliss, Dunseith school employees and community
members and to everyone else who helped make this tournament the great
success that it was.

When I left the gum on Monday evening there were Rolette County police
officers directing traffic at every inter-section leading out of
town. I thought to myself..I bet Dunseith has not been this busy
since the big celebration a couple of summers ago.

Anyway, GREAT JOB DUNSEITH on hosting a great tournament in a fine
facility. You all can be proud of the job you did. I know that
everyone that was there from the other 7 schools and communities would
all agree…you were a great tournament host.

Thanks, Gary, on the great job you are doing with this Dunseith blog.

Les Halvorson,
Sports Director…KBTO
Former DHS staff member

Les, I am proud to say “I am from Dunseith”. Thank you so much for taking the time to share this with us. We all know the great hospitality that the folks from Dunseith have to offer. They are great people.
Folks, Les is married to Myra Henning (72). Les & Myra live directly across the street from my brother Darrel and his wife Debby on Vera street in Bottineau. They have lived there for many years. Young Art Rude and Les are good friends from way back too. I’m not sure if Art realized Les lived across the street from Darrel/Debby, when he visited us, at their house in 2007, but when Art arrived, Les was outside, so they chatted. It was so nice seeing Art after 40 plus years. Art was included with a lot of the Class of 65 correspondence prior to our reunion in 2007, so he knew we were in town and made a special effort to visit us. In fact he came within about 20 minutes of our arrival from the Philippines. It was wonderful. Gary
Folks,
Mel Kuhn sure generated a lot of interest with the “Tickle Pink” CD. There has been a lot of correspondance going on behind the sceens with this one. We now have permission from all of the “Tickle Pink” band members to publish this CD. Bill Grimme, through his internet provider, was able to set up a WEB site for posting songs from this CD. I have posted his message addressing this subject below. Mel Kuhn is sending Bill a copy of the CD for posting. I have also posted a messages from Travis Metcalfe & Kenny Nerpel (65) addressing this subject. Gary
“Tickle Pink” message from Bill Grimme (65): Birmingham, AL
Gary,
Did a little testing today and found I have only 20 mb to play with and the webspace. That’s OK, though. I can post about 6 songs at a time, so, I will put up about 6 once a week. That should be enough for all to hear or download. The quality of a disk copy will not change with multiple generations, but, I talked to Kenny today and he said the original quality is not good. He knows-he made it! It was made with and ’80s era portable tape player and then burned to disk. So, this won’t be like a store bought CD.
Kenny also told me I can go ahead and upload some of his and Sherry’s karaoke. I’ll do that after the Tickle Pinks run out. We should be able to publish a link a week for quite a while!
Bill
From Travis Metcalfe (76) Mesa, AZ
Hi Gary…I just got an email from the person I got the Tickle Pink CD from, Jackie Metcalfe, Daughter of Jack and Mae Metcalfe. She said that it was her Uncle, Kenny Nerpel, that had that CD along with a few more that had Bill and Mary’s kids playing with friends. I have one of the Cds called Turtle Mountain Memories that has The Snake Pit Saloon by I think it’s Larry Metcalfe along with 16 other songs on it….very well done with the tapes they had to work with…I heard the Tickle Pink was recorded on a single head cassette recorder…..anyway..I have talked to Elaine and Shelly was with her and they said they didn’t care if CDs are made and didn’t think Janice would mind…Elaine said someone may want to check with Roberta Hagen Striker to make sure it is OK with her…So if you ask Kenny he may still have the “Master” CDs.

THX, TRAVIS

Reply from Roberta Hagen Stiker (75): Dunseith, ND
Hello Gary, I just read this e-mail, and yes, this will be fine with me. Playing in the Tickle Pink Band has a lot of good memories.
Reply from Kenny Nerpel (65): Devils Lake, ND
Gary,
I don’t have any of the Tickle Pink music on CDs but I still have the
wav files on my computer. In wav they are about 25 MB for each song so
I would have to use some type of file transfer program to send them to
anyone. They can be made into MP3s which takes them down to about 2 to
3 MBs each. I don’t know how much that effects the sound quality but I
also don’t know if that is much of an issue seeing has how they were
originally recorded on cassettes. I also have some really neat files
that are of music that was recorded by Jack Metcalfe when he was in
Georgia. I could make more CDs but there appears to be a lot of folks
that want these and it might be a better idea to put them onto a Web
site and let them be downloaded and burned to CD by anyone that wants
them. I am confused about the name of the group. Was it tickle or
tickle(d) Pink. I’ve seen it both ways now from folks who should know.
The only Boone’s Farm wine I remember from back in the day was a
wonderful little drink called Strawberry Hill. I’m thinking that the
group was named after the Tickle Pink flavor of the wine, but tickled
pink seems to make more sense.Kenny

PS: I am not Jackie’s Uncle. I am her cousin.
Follow up Reply from Travis Metcalfe:
Hi Gary…My family is hard to keep track of sometimes….Jackie and Kenny are cousins not Uncle/Neice…anyway…I forgot to include Cheri to ask for permission…It sounds like she would not mind from the email she had a few days ago……as I played them for Elaine and she was identifying the singers….I had Cheri and Shelly mixed up on a few of the songs. I am listening to the CD as I write this….Travis

Message/Article posted by Susan Fassett Martin (65): Spearfish SD
I could probably go on and on, but I won’t. What a wonderful musical
heritage many of us have that were raised in the Turtle Mt area. My dad
played the guitar and sang and I know many of you out there have a
family member or two that are musically talented. Share your memories.
My dad always sang what he called “plumb pitiful” songs. Lots of
railroad and cowboy songs, where someone was either dying or getting
killed. Little Joe the Wrangler, Old Shep, etc. Paula made us a
wonderful cd a couple of years ago from some old tapes of our dad
singing and playing the guitar. I put it on every once in awhile and
sing and cry and remember all the good sing along we used to have out by
the fireplace in our yard in Dunseith. Cheryl Haagenson always cried
when dad sand Old Shep (ME TOO) Hugs, Susan

11/25/2015 (2317)

Folks,

The email providers are tightening their controls.   With the amount of bulk email messages that I send, with blind copies, with an IP address from the Philippines, some are putting limitations on the number I can send Bcc. For that reason, for a few days, I exposed the email addresses, but I don’t like doing that. For a small Monthly fee AOL is allowing me unlimited Bcc distribution, so they say. When I first signed up for their service they too put a limit of 5 emails for each Bcc message. It appears as though they have now lifted that restriction. We will see.

I get the most returns from those of you using the school email addresses –  k12.nd.us and Sendit – They give me the most problems.

Besides the Dunseith alumni, I have numerous other larger groups that I send messages to also, so the numbers add up.

Gmail has put a hold on my account with them now too while they evaluate.  I don’t anticipate a problem. The restriction was computer generated. Again we will see.  That was two days ago. I have 7 email accounts, all good, so I have reserves.

Gary

 

Lorraine Somers
Reply from Marlys Hiatt (’71):  Dunseith, ND

Good Morning Gary and all,

I just wanted to add a couple comments about Lorraine Somers.  I first meet Lorraine when she came to work in the office at the Dunseith school when I was in High School.  Always a big, beautiful, friendly, smile to greet you if you needed anything.  I liked to stop in for a quick chat and a tease or joke between classes.  After graduation I continued to cross paths with Lorraine now and again and it was always the same, a big smile, a friendly chat, and laughing.  Lorraine Somers will always be a very special lady to me and someone i remember with great fondness.

Marlys Hiatt

 

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Blog (386) posted on March 4 , 2009

 

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03/04/2009

Posted on March 4, 2009

Message from Our travel agent about our Alaska Cruise on July 25th.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) will take back all Un-sold cabins on: March 19th. For all who book after March 19th, cabins are based on availability and would be added back to the group one cabin at a time.

Gina S. Ford

Cruise At Will, Inc.

Cruise and Travel Planners

1-866-870-6986 (toll free)

703-580-1190 (local)

www.CruiseAtWill.com

 

 

Folks, NCL currently has 100 cabins on hold for our group. We currently have 35 cabins booked. For those of you, not signed up, and thinking of going, you must make your reservations before March 19th to be guaranteed a cabin. After that it’s space available only. Please contact Gina Ford, our travel agent, for reservations. Gary

 

Ardis Metcalfe Steggall: Whidbey Island, WA

Folks, Ardis Metcalfe Steggall is now on our daily distribution. Ardis and her husband plan on attending our Dunseith reunion in Seattle on July 24th. The following is a reply I got from Ardis. She initially contacted Bill Grimme asking about the reunion dinner.

Hi Gary,

 

Thanks for getting in touch with me. Yes I have many relatives in the Dunseith area. My father was Lucky Metcalfe (brother to Margaret’s father, Jim Metcalfe), and my mother was Jennie Nelson (sister to Mildred and Marie Parrill, maiden name Nelson). Mildred is LeaRae’s mother. I have traveled to North Dakota many times over the years to visit with relatives and look forward to seeing some people I know at the reunion. I have passed on the information about the reunion to some cousins in the Shoreline, Lynnwood, Bellevue, and Monroe area, as well as to Ivan Christianson in the Renton area. Ivan is the brother of Arlene Wensted (sp?) who passed away many years ago. Her children are Gary Wensted and Karen Wensted (don’t know her married name). He is also related to the Haagenson’s.

 I have lived all my life in the Shoreline area and then moved to Coupeville, WA (Whidbey Island) about 16 years ago. I think there was a family named Stokes in my neighborhood in Shoreline many years ago.

 Looking forward to meeting you and Bill at the dinner.

 Regards,

 Ardis Steggall

 

Reply from Paula Fassett(71): North Branch, MN

Hello….

I loved Art Rude Sr.’s remark about the cold weather – and I can picture his face as he said it. I remember my Dad repeating a story from Kenny Morgan once upon a time. Kenny and Margie wintered somewhere warm (my guess is Texas). Anyway, someone asked Kenny what people do in North Dakota is the summer. His reply was “well, if it falls on a Sunday, we have a picnic”.

I love the memories of Tickle Pink. Those gals had a great sound – and it’s true, Janice CAN harmonize to anything. My favorite was when Elaine would sing “Blue Bayou” – it would have made Linda Ronstadt jealous!

Paula Fassett

 

Reply from Ivy Eller Robert(74): Everett, WA

Gary……..
I didn’t have the pleasure of ever hearing “Tickle Pink” with all of the Metcalfe girls & Shelly. Correct me if I’m wrong, but if my memory serves me correctly, didn’t Lyle Olson’s Mom Lorraine sing in a band at one time? (I just don’t recall what band) If I also remember, she had a great voice and could really pack them in as well. Wasn’t she a Metcalfe? I would say that family is quite talented and the Dunseith & surrounding communities should feel very honored to have had them entertain us!
Ivy Eller Robert (74)

Ivy, I think you are right about Lorraine, but we’ll have to let Lyle or someone else confirm all the details. I agree with you, the Metcalfe’s are very talented. Kenny Nerpel (65) falls in that group too with his mother being a Metcalfe. Gary

 

From Verena (Pete) Gillis(65): Dunseith, ND

Hey Everyone,
Just thought you might like to know that we made it to Regionals to be
held in Minot beginning on Monday of next week.

Dunseith held the Districts in our new Elementary Gymnasium and we
serviced a little over 3000 during this time. All staff and many
community members participated and it was a huge success! In fact, we
received so many compliments that they want to have it here every year,
lol. I’m laughing because I worked in hospitality for 3 days-this was for
visiting coaches, officials, security, janitors, entertainment
supervisors, the Turtle Mountain Community High School director, Mr.
Derrick Dixon who played all 3 days! and of course the media. We were
busy, busy, busy! I got to make my gullet and biscuits not to mention 16
pies and Mrs. Cheryl LaFloe made the stew for yesterday’s game. We had
chili and bangs + meat and cheese and fruit trays for all 3 days. One of
our cooks, Mrs. Gladys Azure made the chili for Saturday’s game. Then all
staff and community donated bars and cakes, etc. to our hospitality room.
It was very much complimented and busy at all times! We were very happy to
be able to help and very proud of the many compliments we overheard.

Anyway, enough of that, they will be talking about this tournament for
days to come. Will try to get some paper coverage and will send as soon
as I can.

Verena, With your hospitality skills, I can see why this event was a huge success. You and Pete were the key players with the logistics of our class of 65 reunion, in 2007, that was a big success as well. You covered every last detail, leaving no stones unturned, with that event. You are GREAT!! Gary

 

11/23/2015 (2316)

Reply from Cheryl Larson Dakin (’71):  Bedford, TX 

That’s great news about Lorelie being able to finalize all the paperwork. I know what a long process that can be. It’s very exciting that Bernie and his family will finally be together. The babies are adorable. I hope all goes well at the embassy and that you guys have fun with the babies!

Cheryl Larson Dakin

 

Reply from Glen Williams (’52):  Missoula, MT
You will be tired….and joyful for the time with the Kids..
Glen W

Yes Glen, but they are a joy to have around.

 


Reply from Dale Evans:   Renton, WA

Congratulations Grandpa Gary!

Thanks Dale

 

Mental Health First Aid training at the new Bottineau Ambulance Training Room
Posting from Vickie Metcalfe (’70):  Bottineau, ND

Gary and friends,

This past Wednesday a fast moving, powerful west wind blew into the mid-section of the state; bringing a wee bit of snow which rapidly turned clear clean streets to ICE.

Within hours, the warmth and clarity of Sunny Days  gone!

Many find the first ice hard to navigate. We can’t see clearly.  Our cars crawl at a snail’s pace. We grip the wheel, foot ready to brake and worry about a sliding loss of control,

or crashing or being T-boned into.

As ugly as the  wind, cold and ICE  was, it did not prevent a full house attending a Mental Health First Aid training at the new Bottineau Ambulance Training Room.

This eight hour  training focusing on Suicide intervention was brought to Bottineau by several local resources and church communities, including First Lutheran Church.

The local community resource group provided coffee, rolls, scones, and noon lunch; funding for the resource based training materials and a  trainer.

The highly qualified Heart View Foundation Alcohol and Drug Therapist led the group  of  about fifty through the training.

She focused our attention toward educating and understanding several Mental Health issues; including Anxiety, Schizophrenia, Depression, PTSD, and  Alcoholism.

The following day, the session was repeated for area Veterans at the newly completed Bottineau Veteran’s Building.

Discussing Mental Health First Aid after winter’s first ice was sobering serious work.

(I’d rather be out dancing)

Participants including myself walked  away from the training with a deeper and  broader understanding  of individuals who face these oft times life threatening challenges within families.

Many reading the Dunseith Blog  know of folks who live out each day with the chilling ICY reality; a  loved one with serious mental health concerns.

We all have learned thorough experience;

The road of life now and again has…’black ice’.

‘Black ice’ which can make it difficult to navigate, especially without knowledge or resources or support.

Last week’s workshop gave me insight on how I can be a better Mental Health First Aid responder.

Thank you to the Dunseith area alumni who were at the presentation, influenced and supported the decision to bring this experience to the rural community of Bottineau.

Vickie M.

 

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Blog (385) posted on March 3 , 2009

Posted on March 3, 2009

Happy Birthday Kathy (Barbara) Kalk Lopez (65): Inver Grove Heights, MN

Barbara (Kathy), a little bird in the sky told me you have birthday today, March 2nd. I understand that you are 62 years old today. I’ll catch up to you in July. You realize that the majority of us from the class of 65 will be eligible for Social Security benefits this year. I hope you had an enjoyable birthday. It’s still your birthday in the states as I’m writing this, but it’s nearly noon on March 3rd here in the PI. If you have a chance, please fill us in with things in your life. Gary

Reply from Cheri Metcalfe Evans (74): Dunseith, ND

Hello Gary-
I was lucky enough to have been part of the Tickle Pink band. It was so fun. I was always amazed (and thankful) for the support we received from the community-It was always great when Dunseith folks would show up, even if we were in Cando or somewhere outside the area. Kathy was a great singer and guitar player. She also took care of the bookings-pointed us in the right direction each week end-and took care of the finances-making sure the bank and individuals who helped us get started were repaid. Elaine had a beautiful voice-she was our “cheerleader” She was always telling us to “get bubbly!” I had never played bass before and with her incredible patience, she taught me enough to get by! “Bert” was a great drummer, Shelley had such a sweet voice-I always think of her when I hear “paper Roses”-Janice was so good on the keyboard and could harmonize to anything (even the ten o’clock whistle-right Bev!) ANYWAY-I remember when we were deciding whether or not to try getting the band going, we decided we would rather “do it and wish we hadn’t, than not do it and wish we had. Great memories I wouldn’t trade for anything!! Thanks for the kind words. As far as permission about the CD’s-Please go ahead (I guess I can only speak for myself though)
Trish-I do remember those songs about rats and bats!!! Mary Margeret Truman etc.-swingin on the outhouse door!
Also-George Gottbreht asked me to see if anyone has any pictures of some of the old businesses in Dunseith. He has matted and framed some and has them in the cafe. He mentioned Snow White Bakery, Joe Morinville’s store.
Thanks for everything you do Gary-like everyone else, I’m hooked!!
Cheri (Metcalfe) Evans ’74

Reply from Ramona Thiefoe LaVallie (66): Dunseith, ND

I would sure like a copy of the Tickle Pink CD when it becomes available

Reply to Gary from Art Rude (71): Bismarck, ND

When I called my Dad the other morning, I thought he had a pretty good one. I usually call him on the way to work, and when I did the other morning it was about zero with a 20 mile and hour wind. When I asked Dad how the weather was, he said, “Well the air is a little fresh, but there are no mosquitoes”.
I’m glad his sense of humor is still intact, it sure brought a laugh and a smile to my face.
Art

Peace and Power, Art Thanks for checking out Art Rude Productions, webpage address: www.artrude.com call and leave a message anytime at 800-XRT-RUDE

Art, most everyone knows your dad, so I wanted to share this. We are glad to hear that your dad is doing well. He was sure going strong in 2007 when we were there. He manages to keep up with all the community events. It’s wonderful. Gary

Reply from Bob Lykins (Mid 60’s HS teacher): Germany & Hutto, TX

“Tickled Pink” sounded great. They would be a hit in the clubs on 6th Street here in Austin.

Margaret Metcalf Leonard retiring? Impossible! She’s too young. It seems like just yesterday she was in my typing class.

Bob Lykins

Reply from Brenda Hoffman (68): Greenville, SC

Thank you so much. How in the world did you know that? What a lovely surprise. By the way, Paulette LaCroix Chisholm celebrated her birthday on February 26th.

Gary, you provide such a wonderful service for all of us who have reserved a very special piece of our heart for Dunseith, San Haven and the surrounding areas. Thank you.

Greenville, SC had its first, and I hope, only snowfall of the year last night. Five inches were predicted, but it looks like an inch or two. My husband Dave and I were not impressed – we’ve only lived here since last July, so would still rather look at winter photos than actually experience it – unlike neighbors who were in awe at the unusual event.

Brenda

Brenda, a little bird in the sky tells me all this stuff. Isn’t it nice? Gary

Reply from Shirley Olson Warcup (49): Ivans, UT

Gary,

You asked about my husband’s uncle who played with the Lawrence Welk orchestra–His name was Clifton Warcup. He was born and raised on a farm near Larimore, ND. He was the youngest of 4 boys. He played saxophone & clarinet. During WWII, he was in the navy and played with the Great Lakes Naval Band that broadcast nationally every Sunday. After his playing days were over, he retired to Corpus Christi and worked in a music store. He died several years ago in Corpus Christi.

Ron and his brother Alan went there to make funeral arrangements because he had no children and his wife preceded him in death. Ron said Clifton played for another nationally known band before he went into the Navy, but he can’t remember which one. He had also been married once before to the lead vocalist of that band. They were later divorced. I’m sorry to say Clifton is the one Uncle I never met.

Shirley Olson Warcup

1928 Post card from Sharon Gottbreht Shen (1959): Everett, WA

Interesting Penny 1928 Post Card. I Remember the Sisters across the street from us had a Model T!

Sharron

Sharron, This is really interesting. Chester Bjorngaard’s history is listed on Page 256 of the Bottineau Centennial book. Gary

 

11/21/2015 (2315)

Stokes Twins

Folks,

We are going to have these guys for 11 days while their Mother Lorelie goes to Manila to have her Physical and final Interview with the American consulate to get her spousal USA visa to go the USA.  Once their paper work is processed, these guys will automatically become US citizens. Lorelie just got their Birth Certificates. This is the Philippines, so things don’t happen fast here. She has now given their Birth certificates along with Bernie’s USA citizenship to the American consulate. Within 3 months they will have their USA citizenship and Passports. Then they, along with Lorelie and their 5 year old sister will join Bernie in Bellevue, WA. Needless to say they are all very excited for all this to happen.

Bernie will be here for Christmas too. He arrives on December 22nd and will be here until January 6th.  He couldn’t wait to see his twin boys that very much look like him too.

Bernadette is excited for these guys to be here too. They will have two full time, 24 hour per day, babysitters too while they are at our house. Their babysitters and I will pick them and Lorelie up this afternoon at 5 pm.

                 Our twin Grandson’s – Bryce and Brydon Stokes
Twins

 

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Blog (384) posted on March 1 , 2009

 

03/01/2009

Posted on March 1, 2009

From Sharon Longie Dana (73): MIssoula, MT

 

Condolences to the Stickland Family, especially Dean. Thoughts and prayers are with you all during this time

 

Sharon Longie Dana(73)

 

 

 

From Dave Slyter (70): Fargo, ND

 

To the Stickland family,

Gary and Lee,

I too remember Bob driving the mail route up in the hills and even down at the house just a half mile west of Dunseith by Clifford Halvorson and Erling Bergs place. We were all neighbors along with the Darrell Getzlaff family. I could never figure out (when I was young) how one man could put on so many miles in one day. You had to be a special driver in those days during the winter months to get to all those mail boxes. But Bob was very good at what he did. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

The attachment of the tickle pink was just a teaser, but enough to get my toes tapping. Please send me a copy of the full CD. It would be much appreciated. I remember one time up at Kelvin when the tickle pick was playing they asked me to play drums for them that evening as Roberta could not be there. I was very nervous but not as much as when they wanted to play “wipe out”. Then it was pure panic. When it came time to play the drum solo I just started pounding any drum and cymbal that came into reach. It sounded “TERRIBLE” I was pretty much embarrassed. ha But all in all I had a great time.

Thanks for the memories

Dave Slyter (70)

 

 

Email update for Manuel (Manny) Cuadrado (63): Omaha, NE

 

Hello Gary,

Well, I am now a Cox Communications customer. Just got my email account set up.

My new home email is:

Please update your address book.

Thanks.

Manny

Manny, It’s great hearing from you. I have a question for you. Have you had the opportunity to visit your home country of Cuba since fleeing from there to Dunseith in the early 60’s? I’m kind of thinking that probably has not been possible though. Gary

 

 

Reply From Shirley Olson Warcup (49): Ivans, UT

 

Replay to Gary Metcalfe & Gary Stokes,

Thanks for the information about the Chase family. I’m amazed at the knowledge so many of you young\younger people have of the Dunseith community. My world during the first 10 years of my life was our immediate neighbors, relatives and classmates. I don’t think I knew anyone who lived more than 5 miles away. During the first 6 years of my life, I remember going to Dunseith only a few times and to Bottineau, even less–usually to see a doctor. Finding out more about local families and finding that I’m related (by marriage) to many of them is a joy.

I enjoyed the Tickled Pink recording–I grew up with music like that–and married a man who grew up with classical music. Our tastes don’t always coincide!! He went to Interlocken National Music Camp–for vocal and instrumental and has been involved in music all of his life. Last summer he sang at the funeral of a 101 year old man. (Ron, by the way, is 81 years old).

Once again, thanks to all who contribute to this “blog”–It brings back good memories.

A P.S.here–Ron’s uncle played with the Lawrence Welk orchestra for many, many years. Ron’s father and his three uncles were all involved with music.

Shirley Olson Warcup

Shirley, What was Ron’s uncle’s name that played with the Lawrence Welk orchestra? Please tell us a little bit about him. Gary

 

 

 

Reply from Ele Dietrich Slyter (69): Dunseith, ND

 

I agree with your correspondents…Tickle Pink was probably the best band to come out of this area for many years. The variety of music they performed was awesome to say the least. My personal favorite song was “Splish Splash”. I too would like to have a copy of the CD..just let me know what it will cost and where to send the money.

The last time I heard them play was at Kelvin Klinic 17 years ago on the 15th of Feb. Why, you ask, do I remember that date so well? They played for Cam and Sherri Millang’s wedding dance. Sherri is our daughter. I think that Cam and maybe Glen had to do a bit of persuading (begging) but they talked them into playing that night and I will be forever grateful that they did, as Kathy was not with us too much longer after that. What a tragic loss of an angelic voice when she left us. Elaine, Janice, Roberta and Shelly were there that night also and they did a wonderful performance as always. I wish Cheri could have joined also for that last bash.

PS They packed the bar that night..there was standing room only and to get a drink you had to elbow people out of the way…I even saw people standing outside waiting or trying to get inside…what a crowd!!

 

 

 

Reply from Dick Johnson (68): Dunseith, ND

 

Gary and Friends,

The song ‘Long Tall Texan’ on the CD was one of my favorites the gals
did. Another was a Hank Williams song, ‘Kawliga’– they got all the
Cajun yips and ya’s in the right places. They played for dances at the
city hall and a few at the AC Bar and packed the house! The dance floor
was always crowded whenever they played and everyone was having a good
time! I’m glad Lyle mentioned that Roberta Hagen Striker played the
drums, and did a nice job. Thanks to the ladies of Tickle Pink for great
memories! Thanks Gary!

Dick

Folks, I got a message from Mel Kuhn telling me there are 29 songs on the Tickle pick CD. That’s way to many to be sending via email attachments. We/Mel are working out a plan to make these available to whoever would like a copy. We need to touch base and get permission from the Tickle Pink gals before doing this though. Gary

 

 

 

Qestion from Gary Metcalfe (57): Forsyth, MO

 

Question for whomever:

I need help on a couple of people from back when….Cliff Howery and his beautiful wife, name ?? Cliff rode back from Seattle with us in the 40’s and I have him placed out on old #5 north a little ways. He was an outstanding personality as I remember. Also Sam Howery.

Leroy Aftem still rings a bell. Didn’t his folks have a confectionery in Dunseith? Art Seim used to live down by the Lake Sisters and ran a confectionery for awhile.

Gary Metcalfe

11/19/2015 (2314)

Posting from Neola Kofoid Garbe:  Bottineau & Minot, ND
Dunseith News

Bottineau 2015 Craft Show
Posting from Neola Kofoid Garbe:  Bottineau & Minot, ND
Neola

 

 

====================================
Blog (383) posted on February 28 , 2009

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02/28/2009

Posted on February 28, 2009

Bob Stickland passed away – Lee (Leland) Stickland (64): Dickinson, ND

GARY,

Wanted to let YOU know that my Dad, BOB, passed away on Wed evening about 9 pm.

Dad suffered from many maladies that could have contributed to this final exit.

My girl friend, Gloria, and I were at the local Perkins sharing a bran muffin when I received the call that Dad’s vital signs were upside down. The ambulance was summoned but he was gone a few moment later.

Dad was 87, born on July 6, 1921, ‘near Dunseith ND’.

His parents were Edward Lee Stickland and May Striker Stickland. They lived near the Beaver Dam school, below the hill and to the north of; down the lane from Iver Larson.

My brothers, Darrel (Doc) and Dean will arrive FR for the Sat funeral here in Dickinson. Mom passed away in April of 2002; now Dad and she will be beside one another. again.

It is one thing to have had a career in nursing homes where I witnessed many deaths but YOUR own Dad passing is much more striking.

Dad and I had good visits about the mail route, the roads, the snow, the people on the route and the such.

-21 degree wind chill here right now. 3-5 inches of snow forecast for FR by pm.

Thanks, I read and enjoy each entry by all. Lee

Stickland Darrel 3242 90th Curv NE Blaine, MN 55449 (763) 786-2582 doc@tcinternet.net 67
Stickland Dean 9542 MARLBROOK CT SE OLYMPIA, WA 98513 (360) 459-4566 mail@sticklandbows.com 73
Stickland Lee (Leland) 1520 W Villard St Dickinson, ND 58601 (701) 483-3709 lee_stickland@yahoo.com 64

Lee, Darrel & Dean: We are so sorry to hear of the passing of your dad. He was an icon, especially for those of us rural folks he delivered mail to for so many years. He is the only mail man that I ever remember us having for all of my growing up years until leaving the area. Lee, I had a nice visit with your dad about a year and half ago when I was locating you. He was of very sound mind. He gave me your phone number and that is how I got in touch with you. Our condolences are with you guys and please keep us posted. Gary

Reply from LeaRae Parrill Espe (67): Bottineau, ND

I remember hearing “Tickled Pink” at Robin and Bernard Morin’s wedding dance. They played “Mama, He’s Crazy” and it sounded every bit as good, if not better than the Judd’s. Appropriate song for the occasion, right, Bernard?

Reply from Trish Clayburgh (73): Fort Collins, CO

Hi Gary,

I really enjoyed reading the blog this morning – I loved the stories about Tickled Pink. I missed that era because I was already off to college, but I remember singing many songs with Cheri Metcalfe …..In fact she taught me the complicated words to “I’ve Been Everywhere Man” and I’ve been known to pull that song out at campfires ever since.

“I’ve been to Reno, Chicago, Buffalo, Toronto, Winslow, Sarasota……..”

Anyhow – we sang a lot of songs huddled together against those freezing nights as we drove to whatever game in whatever town…..some of them were a bit more colorful –

Maybe Cheri remembers the one about Rats**, Bats***, gobble nibble nibble chew-

Oh yes – we just laughed our heads off. Who made up that stuff?

99 bottles of beer on the wall – I used to work in Chicago?

Throw em out the door head first, eh?

That should stir some memories…

I WOULD LOVE A COPY OF TICKLED PINK! What fun!

Trish

Reply from Margaret Metcalfe Leonard (65): Rolette, ND

Hi Gary

It totally amazes me that each day there are messages to read from
Dunseith folks. This has become a ritual…it’s like a lifeline to the
past as well as the present. I have learned so much about life in
Dunseith from so many different perspectives that it’s like reading a live
account of small town North Dakota. (reminds me of the Mitford Series)

Tickled Pink was pure fun. Cecile Berube Reynolds would tell us that
there was live music at the AC, Fortune’s bar, and we would come from
Rolette to dance to Tickled Pink’s music. I can still hear Kathy singing
Kalijah. I would love to receive a copy of that CD, a treasure to be
sure.

Thanks,
Margaret

Folks, Bill Grimme, with his elite computer abilities was able to shorten and reduce the file size of this CD to an acceptable size to be included with this message. For your enjoyment, please click on the attachment.

Margaret & Trish: I will send both of you the full size electronic copy of that CD that I received from Mel. It sounds like Shelly Fulsebakke Albertson has an original CD that she gave a copy of to Mel Kuhn. I’m sure Mel shortened the CD version considerably for sending as an email attachment.

Margaret, whether you realize it or not, you are a major contributor to the development of this daily blog. Had it not been for you and John Bedard contacting my brother Darrel in Bottineau to get in touch with me for the 2007 Q-centennial, I would have never been inspired to locat and contact our 65 classmates. You were also one of the major contributors with the planning of the very successful class reunion we had in 2007. The rest is history.

Margaret, You mentioned in a message to me a while back that you are retiring from teaching the end of this school year. With all your years of teaching at the Belcourt High School, now teaching 3rd generation students, you have created quite a following. Folks are saying, “Margaret can not retire until my kids finish HS”. That in it self says a lot about you and also your teaching abilities. You will be missed by students, parents and staff alike. Gary

Reply from Gary Metcalfe (57): Forsyth, MO

Reply to Shirley Olson Warcup

Too answer your question Shirley, George Chase, a first class painter and contractor, trained his sons, Clyde and Fred in the trade and they were professional painters. Clyde Chase was on the scene through the 50’s for sure, he had about 13 children and lived very near the San. No wonder they called it Chaseville.

By the way, one of Dale Gottbrecht’s main men, Andy Gunville, was Clyde’s brother-in-law, married to Clyde’s only sister.

Vickie Hiatt, Norman and the boys episode reminds me of Lee Striker and Lee Smith at the wood pile where the fiddler at the house party hid his jug. Lee took a big drink and Lee asked, “how is it?” Lee said, “goooood” as he handed it to Lee. Fast thinking on Lee’s part, I don’t think #2 Lee took quite as big a swig… they’d been set up!!!

Gary Stokes my dad always carried his wallet in his front pocket. I think that came from running some plastering jobs in Juneau, Alaska during the war. A rough town at the time, he just never changed pockets.

11/18/2015 (2313)

Folks,

I have been kind of busy and have not been able to get a blog posted since last Saturday. Bernadette has not been well either. Today though she has bounced back and seems to be much better.  Today is our bowling day, so I managed to get this put together and distributed before leaving at about 11:30 am.

 Gary

 

Happy Belated Birthday Peggy Sime Espe (’60): Dunseith, ND
Espe

 

       Happy Birthday Patzy McKay Heggen: Dunseith, ND
McKay Heggen, Patzy 2313

 

Neola Garbe and Jim Kofoid’s first cousin
Happy Birthday Mike Brudwick: Fargo, ND
Brudwick, Mike

 

Betty Hackman Schmidt (’68) Mesa, AZ not well
Report from Larry Hackman (’66): Bismarck, ND

Gordon, my sister Betty’s husband called with bad news. The doctors had

taken him and their family into a room and told them that Betty’s organs
are starting to shut down and that she isn’t going to make it, and that

they are too call family and let them know.

The doctors did not install the Cheney heart pump as they thought that she is to weak,

that she would not survive the operation.
Sorry for the bad news.
Now, we all need to pray for a miracle.

Thank You for all your prayers.

Larry

Such sad news Larry. Our prayers are with Betty and all of her family.

 

Reply to Judy Allery Azure’s (’65) Birthday picture
From Ginger LaRocque Poitra (’65): Belcourt, ND

Gary,

I just wanted to say,  hey Judy!  I haven’t seen you since we graduated high school. Wish you would’ve come to our reunions.

Would’ve been nice to see you!

Ginger LaRocque Poitra class of 65′

 

Reply to Lyle Olson’s posting
From Vickie Metcalfe (‘’70): Bottineau, ND

Gary and friends,

Thank You to  Lyle Olson for the feedback and  comments recently shared on this blog about ‘Jacks Story’.

Lyle, I Loved Lorraine ( Metcalfe) Olson – Somers,  your Mom. I

didn’t know her  when I was a little kid like I knew  her brother,

‘S’milin Jack, the banjo picker’.

Somehow, we grew together, sharing common familial ties, stories,  and work while employed side by side at Dunseith Public School

We were cousins, we were friends,  and  we were comrades in developing the  Metcalfe Family Reunion held in  the early 80’s, and we  enjoyed countless adventures.

Lorraine was  kind, non-judgmental, and unwavering in her beliefs.

With Lorraine I always knew where I stood.  She was so good to Mom and Dad which I am grateful for.

My heart gladdens with fondness thinking  and remembering  Lorraine’s laughter;  which was an uplifting bright spot in some rather tough situations. I will always miss her.

 

Hang on to the laughter~!

Later,  Vickie

 

Reply from Ginger LaRocque Poitra (’65):  Belcourt, ND

Gary,

I was going to write about my grandfather Martin Bergie and my uncle Joseph Bergie , but I need prior written consent by the authors.

I did know a lot of information about them before they wrote this book about them. I suppose they will think I took my information from their book.

I do have a newspaper article about my uncle Joseph, it might have been from Montana, my only aunt on grandpa’s side of the family gave it to me many years ago. Not sure at this time where it is.

I need to get busy and put things where I can find them.  Lol

I’ll get back to you at a later time.

You might want to put this on the blog it will explain to the readers why I won’t be writing about my grandfather and uncle’s accomplishments.

Thanks Gary,

Ginger (LaRocque ) Poitra class of ’65

 

Reply to Tony & Ginger LaRocque Poitra’s wedding posting
From Vickie Metcalfe (‘’70):  Bottineau, ND

Gary and friends,

What a great  “Happy Wedding Day’ photo of Ginger and Tony Pottra!

I  got to know GInger within the past couple years.

Thanks Ginger for sharing  treasured  family photos and comments of your brave American Veterans!

Ginger and I found something in common; our parents childhood friendship, is a  common factor.

When visiting, I find she too recalls people I remember my father talking about.

Many names I recall in discussions with his siblings and friends; Art & Eva Seim and Emil & Genevive Morin.

Ginger’s mother, Madeline (Bergie) LaRocque and my dad were class mates.

For years in the late 1920’s early 1930’s together they  attended Hilltop (Bergan) Country School.

I  accompanied mom and dad to many dances at Kelvin on Friday or Saturday nights.

My cousin’s  Janice and Raphael,  promoted many local musicians and bands.

Ginger’s parents  Joe and Madeline LaRocque were also often in attendance at dances.

After a ‘set’, Dad would  say to mom, “I am  going ask Madeline to dance”.

They’d glide across the floor,  recalling and laughing  about  fond childhood memories.

Kelvin  dance floor would be brimming with people of the hills and a few from the prairie,

Waltzes, Two Steps  and Fox trots were  finely and smoothly executed.

In unison, couples circled the dance floor.   and,……. I loved learning to dance from the best!

Usually people who enjoyed dancing were in  attendance at those dances.

NO one stood around at the door watching.  Everyone participated in dancing.

Among them,my Uncles and Aunts, the Simes, Mr. &  Mrs. Pritchard from over by Ackworth, from across the highway;Lorraine & Duane Peterson, Jim & Ruby Birkland,the Carl Millang siblings and their spouses,

Mr. & Mrs. Allard from St. John,  Pat & Johnnie Myer,  and Lorraine Haladay and another couple from Boisevain, Canada.

Oft times, Jennie Handleland  & Hilda Strong would dance together.

 

It was Jennie who taught me how to dance the Schottsche  with a the jukebox tune  at the old Kelvin Bar before it burned, one hight so long ago.

Over and over patient Jennie  and I  practiced until I finally caught the stepping.

Dancers are a joyful  lot who  love dancing to  “Old Time Music” .

My parents watched for  particular music;  They were fond of Jack & Lorraine, and Ole with the Stump Jumpers.

The Poitra Boys Band , who were  the sons and grandsons of Frank Poitra

Everyone also enjoyed dancing to  the Tommy Belgarde Band which was  another band with ‘good timing’.

Jimmie LaRocque often played double string fiddle with Tommy s’ band.

All of this brings to mind,  Robert Fulghum’s Story  from the book “It Was on Fire When I laid Down Upon It”.

One short tale nails a  feeling  I recall , I felt while dancing with those wonderful dancers;Dancing with an Old Geek Dancer/

In his book Robert Fulguhm’s short tale about dancing is  entitled  “Old Geek Dancers”.

The ending goes something like this;

“There is something said about the Hopi’s. They  believe there isn’t much difference between  praying and dancing; both are necessary for a long life.”

“They say to be a useful Hopi is to have a quiet heart and take part in all the dances.”

I believe all those folks who made music and enjoyed taking part in dancing had quiet hearts!

With plans to keep dancing where ever I can through life!

Perhaps someday, I  too will be called, an old geek dancer……

Giving thanks to you Gary, your  blog, has certainly aided in promoting

and restoring old familial friendships.

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

Vickie Metcalfe

 

Road Trip Through The Hills – Sept. 25/26, 2015
Story from Larry Hackman (’66): Bismarck, ND

Gary

I hope this little report finds you and your family doing well.

I’ve been working on this story for awhile trying to get ahead of the spin put on it by Dick and Mel, on previous blogs.

This time of year, from Labor Day to New Years Day always seems to go by too fast.

Hope you and all our friends enjoy the story.

Larry

 

Road Trip Through The Hills – Sept. 25/26, 2015

It was fall in the Turtle Mountains of North Dakota and the trees were dressed in colors to impress.  The sun upon your face was warm with a slight hint of coolness in the air.  When you stepped into the darkness caused by the thick canopy of the trees and with heaven sent shafts of shining light breaking through the shadows, and with the rustle of the leaves as a breeze blew through the tree tops, made the world go away.  It made me want to go for a walk in the woods or string up a hammock between a couple of trees and lay back with the warm sun upon your face and enjoy the sweet smell of nature, to observe the colored leaves against the bright blue back ground beauty that is the sky.  To feel the calmness and the beauty that is nature on a beautiful fall day not only through your eyes but through every sense and pore of your body, “to be as one with nature”.  O-hell it made me homesick is what it did.

Yes, Henry and I decided to take another road trip through the Turtle Mountains of North Dakota this year, taking advantage of an invitation that our wives received to attend a wedding in Rugby, ND for their great nephew, their sister’s grandson.  We pulled our campers up to Rugby and camped out in the RV Park, owned and operated by Jim Rocheleau who once farmed about twelve miles south of Dunseith.  Contrary to what Mel said, we did not park our campers in the Shopko parking lot, although that probably would have been fun.  Camping in the RV Park has a few more conveniences than the ShopKo parking lot does.  We decided that the wives would use Henry’s truck to get around and to visit their relatives in the Rugby area.  Henry and I used my truck to tour the Great Turtle Mountains and to visit our relatives and friends that live in that area.

Henry and I decided to start in Bottineau, ND and work our way east.  I had brought along on the trip some new information I had obtained on the Hackman family genealogy and because of this material I wanted to stop and see people who I knew would like to have it added to their books.  The first place we headed for was to Cousin Lorraine (Handeland) Mallang’s place.  We drove by slowly noticing the garage door was open and that her car wasn’t home.

2.

We decided to keep on going and tour Bottineau and have an early lunch as we figured she had maybe ran uptown for groceries or something and intended to be gone only for a short time.  We each had a  bowl of delicious chunky homemade roast beef with vegetables soup at the Bottineau Bakery.  We drove back over to Lorraine’s and there she was visiting with some people parked in her driveway.  We waited politely for her to finish visiting and as the people drove off, she came over and greeted us with big hugs and invited us in for cookies and coffee.  She always serves us cookies and coffee.  We finally told her that we had come by earlier and didn’t stop because we didn’t see her car.  She said that she had been home all morning and that someone else had borrowed her car right out of her garage, and without her permission.  She says that she always goes out in the morning to fetch her paper from the box along the curb, on the way she opens the garage door to let the sun shine into her garage.  She said that she loves to see the warm glow of the sun filling her garage in the morning as she sits and reads her newspaper.  Well, this morning she just threw the newspaper on the table and went downstairs to throw a load of laundry in the washer.  When she got back upstairs she sat down at the table preparing to read the news of the day and when she happened to glance out the kitchen door into the garage and to her surprise there was no car.  She said, she thought to herself “oh no” maybe when I parked it I forgot to set the brake or that it slide out of gear and had rolled out into the street.  She said that she ran out in the garage and looked out into the street but there was no car to be seen.  She couldn’t believe her eyes, where did it go?  She said she started calling everybody and the Police.  She was having a very busy morning.  The policeman came over while we were there and introduced himself to all of us.  We found out that he was a LaRocque and had grown up in St. John, ND. He said that he was no relation to the LaRocque’s in Dunseith or Belcourt.  I than asked if he knew Mel Kuhn from St. John?  He started laughing and said that he did and you know for the rest of the time that we sat there at that kitchen table, the man had a continuous smile upon his face.  I don’t know what it is about Mel, but he seems to have that affect on people?  I have heard that the police in Fargo North Dakota stopped a man who was driving a car that

3.

he had taken in Bottineau, ND.  I am hoping that this car was not Lorraine’s as I heard that he was shot and had to be taken to the Hospital.  It was busy at cousin Lorraine’s as relatives, friends, neighbors and the police were all concerned and curious about her well being and what had happened and all wanted to help.   News travels fast in a small town and every one there was showing her the love and concern they have for her.  Henry and I did not like leaving such friendly and comfortable surroundings but eventually we had to, and proceeded north from Bottineau up into the beautiful Turtle Mountains.  Ahh the clear blue sky, the  lakes like huge pure blue marbles laying in a nest of lush emerald green vegetation surrounded by trees dressed in their festival of fall colors between the rolling grass covered hills that are, The Turtle Mountains.  Beautiful.

We proceeded East onto Highway 43 and toured the Lake Metigoshe area and then traveled south on Willow Lake Road to Bob’s and Cousin Barbara (Boucher) Rivards farm for a visit.  Yes, we were doing another (pop-in) visit.  We caught Bob and Barb at home.  Barbara was baking bread and making wine from home grown grapes.  Well, I actually don’t know what Bob was doing?  Maybe he was sampling the wine as he did seem glad to see us.  Actually they were both glad to see us.  Henry and I also got to sample the wine.  They were doing a good job.  It was late afternoon when we left the Rivard farm.  We continued south on the Willow Lake Road thinking that we would pop-in and see Cousin Duane Handeland.  Well as you know, when you do the pop-in visit thing sometimes people aren’t home.  It’s when you call and let them know you are coming and they aren’t home that you have to become a little suspicious.  Duane was not at home and looking at the clock we talked it over and decided to head for Dunseith as it was getting close to Jumbo Burger Time.  We pulled up in front of the motel building, the one that George is gutting out and turning into a meeting area, just south of the restaurant.  Henry I just started walking across the end of the drive through road toward the restaurant, when there was grinding of brakes, the sliding of tires upon gravel, and the honking of a horn.  Cousin Duane Handeland had just pulled up and asked, with a huge grin upon his face, what hell are you guys doing up here in the sticks?  We explained that we were visiting relatives and friends while

4.

our wives were at a wedding.  Duane’s reply was, “so they are attending a life funeral, huh”?  Duane is always a pleasure to visit with.  We visited only for a short time before Duane sped off in his car with a cold case of beer in the passenger seat, and a smile upon his face.

Henry and I went into Dales and we each had a delicious Jumbo Burger.  We just automatically do this, as we think it’s just crazy to drive that far and not have one.  We must have hit the dinner rush hour as Dales was really a busy place.  After eating our dinner we traveled south on Highway #3 to visit our Uncle Bill Kraft and his wife Janet (Fountaine) Kraft.  Guess what?  She was busy baking homemade buns.  We had a great visit about old times.  Henry and I both worked on Bill and Janet’s farm during our high school summers and played a lot of pinochle and drank a lot of beer, year round.  As we were going out the door and saying our goodbyes, Janet handed us a bread bag full of freshly baked buns.  Them buns smelled like we should eat them but with our tummies full of jumbo it just wasn’t in the cards.  We got back to Rugby late so we went directly to our campers.  Surprisingly the women weren’t home yet so we figured they were having a good time at the wedding, (life funeral).

The next morning my wife Marion was making sandwiches out of them freshly baked buns from my Aunt and that good tasting Cloverdale Tangy Summer Sausage made right here in Mandan , North Dakota. There was no noticeable activity over at the Henry Hackman camper yet, so I grabbed a couple of the freshly made sandwiches and took them with me up to the RV Office to visit Jim Rocheleau.  Somehow in a previous conversation with the man it had come up that when him and his family use to run around with my uncle Bill’s family that they sometimes would have lunch afterwards, at someone’s home or at a restaurant, and that he loved to go to my Uncles place and eat, because Janet would always serve sandwiches made with delicious homemade buns.  It was a pleasure to share a sandwich with Jim and talk about days gone by.  It was about that time that Henry and his wife and my wife came in the door informing us that a huge elm tree had blown over in the camp ground and had scared the hell out

5.

of them.  Everyone had come out of their campers to see if the world was coming to end.  It was amazing that it missed all the campers and did no damage to anything but itself.  Jim said that he knew it was in bad shape and had already arranged for it to be taken down at the end of camping season.  It looked to me like the wind had just saved him a whole bunch of money.

Henry and I grabbed that bag of sandwiches my wife had put together, and headed for the hills for our second day of visiting.  We traveled north on Highway #3 to Cousin Jim and Ruby Birkland’s place, with a huge tail wind.  The wind was blowing hard out of south that day but it must have decided to blow around the hills instead of over them as it was quiet up there.  Jim and Ruby really enjoyed their 80th birthday party the weekend before at the Dunseith Lutheran Church.  In fact some of the relatives had just left for Oregon the day before we got there. We could tell they were a little tired from all the celebrating, but were happy.  I added some pages into Jim and Ruby’s (Hackman/Hackmann Genealogical book).   Jim’s mother Josephine is my dad’s oldest sister. After some conversation and goodbyes Henry and I were on our way.

We headed north and east from their house and ended up at Dick Johnsons shop as that is where he always seems to be.  We caught him and his son working on an old D-8 Caterpillar dozer.  Now Dick was sure happy to see us.  He came right over and started jawing with us.  His son just kept on a working on that dozer, stopping by for introductions and occasional advice from the old man.  Well, that boy had that dozer going in no time.  I think he was grateful that we occupied some of Dicks time.  Now, old Mel explained to me, that is the way work gets done over at Dick’s shop.  Mel said, when he’s invited over to help old Dick out that is the way it always seems to work out, “he is doing the sweating and Dick is doing the jawing.  I know, hard to believe, right?  Now to be fair, Mel gave the impression in his  memoir that Dick starved, Henry and I well we over there, and it was up to him to step in and fatten us back up with some freshly made apple pie.  I’m just glad Mel felt that way.  You know how it is Gary; it’s hard to pass up a pie.  Anyway, it was in the middle of the afternoon and Dick did offer us water or beer,

and I guess because we are old, Henry had a bottle of water and I didn’t have anything because I was the designated driver.  Henry was sure impressed with that dozer.  He has talked about it a lot.  He just couldn’t believe that they did all that work on it and went parked it in the trees.  I think, Brother Henry wanted to take that baby out and knock down some trees, and level off some ground.  Oh hell, he wanted to operate it, pull some levers, and make that old D-8 snort and blow some coal black smoke into the air, is what he wanted to do!

After leaving Dick’s place we headed back down south of Jim Birklands to the Ed Walter farm/ranch.  It’s hard to do a pop-in on Cousin Ed, because that man is always working.  He is 75 years old and still works hard from sunup to sundown.  We had a nice little visit with his wife Bonnie and his daughter Pam and gave them some pages, to add to their Hackman/Hackmann book, and were on our way.  They did not know when Ed and Ben were going to be back, so we decided to go up north to our dad’s old farm and visit Brother Anton.  Brother Anton wasn’t home either.  That is what happens sometimes when you’re doing the pop-in thing, sometimes you pop-out.

Henry and I did some driving around the country side and found a spot on top of a hill with a nice scenic view of the beautiful Turtle Mountains.  We pulled out that bag of sandwiches that my wife had made with the tangy summer sausage and my aunts homemade buns.  We opened the doors of the truck and sat and ate in silence, as our eyes and bodies soaked in the beautiful surroundings, on a beautiful fall day.

The shadows of the trees were starting to get long when we departed that site and headed for St John down the scenic road that is Highway #43.  Yes, we were on our way to see our old buddy Mel.  Guess what?  Mel and his wife Kathy were waiting for us. They had baked a whole bunch of apple pies for the occasion.  I knew I could smell fresh baking pies from atop that hill that we were parked on.  Mel said them pies were for the bake sale at the church tomorrow, but that he was willing to share one with us, and that he would pay his wife extra for all her work in making this pie, so the church wouldn’t be out anything.  I could tell that

7.

his wife actually believed every word that was coming out of Mel’s mouth.  Actually, I think that was when she got up and left the table.  Yes, Mel did actually get up and pull her chair back for her, when she got up?  I think he wanted more pie.

It was as dark as dark can get when Henry and I left Mel’s place and traveled through St. John, and proceeding west on Highway #43.  Around a curve and topping a hill a skunk ran across the road in front of me, and for some doggone reason he made a U-turn and came directly back towards my vehicle as the pickup wheel thumped over its body. Yes, Mel I left a “dead skunk lying in the middle of the highway”.  Isn’t there a song about that? http://www.jango.com/music/Loudon+Wainwright+III com/webhp? (sourceid=chrome-instant&ion=1&espv=2&ie=UTF-8#q=Dead+Skunk+Lyimg+in+the+Middle+of+the+Highway)

Now I know Mel is going to ask me what color was the skunk?  Mel, “it was black with a white strip”.  Now I know his next question is going to be if I ran over his right side or his left side because I know Mel knows I would not cross the white stripe, “not intentionally anyway”?  Mel, “I ran over its front side”.  Mel’s, next question will be, “How do you know that”? I know that because it made no scent.  “Get it Mel”?  It would have definitely made scent if I had run over the other end.  I hope this explanation saves me from writing another email to him, explaining it all over again? Can you get skunks in different colors?

Yes, it was a fun trip, there is always something special about revisiting where you grew up, visiting The Turtle Mountains.  We had a great time visiting with everyone.  We didn’t get to see everyone we wanted to, or everywhere we wanted to go, but we have already decided that we have to do it again sometime.  Thank you to everyone for the conversations, the laughs, and the food.

Thank You,

Larry Hackman

 

====================================
Blog (382) posted on February 27 , 2009

02/27/2009

Reply from Dick Johnson (68): Dunseith, ND
Gary and Friends,I should have been more precise. The Frozen Fingers group from Minot,
which we belong to, is joining us for a jam session in Bottineau, at the
Senior Center on Main Street every second Sunday of each month. The
first jam session is planned for March 8 at 1 PM. It’s open to the
public at no charge and the Senior Citizens will be providing the
lunch. At this time I’m not sure if the lunch is free will or if items
are priced, but either way it will be great! There will be pickers and
singers from all over the area taking turns playing all kinds of music .
It should be a good way to spend a Sunday afternoon. Hope to see you there!

Dick

Folks, Mark your calendars. This will be a fun event every month. I wish I could be there. Gary
Reply from Shirley Olson Warcup (49): Ivans, UT
Shirley is Dick Johnson’s aunt – sister to his mother
Gary,
Was the Fred Chase Vance Baily mentioned in his letter a painter? Two brothers who were painters painted our house when we lived on a farm west of Dunseith. Shortly after they finished the job, one of them was accused of murdering someone at San Haven. I was perhaps 8 years old at that time–I don’t remember their names. I do know that my parents were surprised when they heard about the murder and arrest. Both of these brothers were apparently very satisfactory workers and very polite men. I know my parents were skeptical that one of them could have done something like this, however, if my memory is correct one of them was convicted of the murder. Perhaps someone with a better memory than mine knows if our painter was Fred Chase.
Shirley Olson Warcup
Reply from Gary Metcalfe (57): Forsyth, MO
Reply to Vance Bailey’s letter
Here is some input about Jules Waldron, Vance mentioned the boys left town. In a letter from Bing Evans to his mother dated October 20, 1941, Bing was in training at Ft. Lewis, Wa. Bing says, ” I spent the last weekend in Seattle, John Schimitz and his wife came over to Jim’s (Metcalfe) and we played cards and drank beer. Had a great time. I visited for awhile with Albert Aubrey and Fred Waldron. Fred told me his brother Percy, was in the Army a year and spent 280 days of that time in the guard house. Albert is working in an electrical shop for at $10.00 per day and Fred works in a service station.”
Albert was known as Monk. Who knew his mother and step dad, Tom and Maggie (Aubrey) Cassidy? What a pair. Maggie and I had asthma together. We went to Bottineau one fateful day to see a new young dr. in town, Dr. Bray. An old lady and a kid. The dr. used a syringe that was designed for a draft horse….it was memorable!!
Gary Metcalfe
Reply from Lyle Olson (75) – Son of Lorraine Metcalfe: West Fargo, ND
Gary:I read Bev Morinville-Azure’s e-mail the other day wherein she mentioned the band, “Tickled Pink”. She forgot to mention that Roberta Hagen (now Striker) was the drummer for that all girl band.

The band was formed in the mid-70’s. I was in the USAF at the time and literally made weekend trips home from Scott AFB in Illinois to see them play. They had an enormous following, young and old alike. I’ll never forget their biggest fans seemed to be Kenny and Nettie Tooke. In fact, Kenny and Nettie even developed “fan wear” for the band in the form of Black Windbreakers (to make Kenny look skinny) with the band’s name emblazoned on the back. They were quite the picture twirling around the dance floor, dancing two-steps to the Eagles and John Fogerty.

As many of you know, the lead singer for that band was Kathy Metcalfe. She was the best singer I have ever heard, as she could sing anything from Fleetwood Mac to Johnny Cash. Her voice was strong and pure, and she was great musician as well. I remember sitting on the porch at David Fugere’s house one summer night and we could hear Kathy singing all the way down the block. Her voiced filtered through the air as if delivered to one’s ears by angels. I really miss her.

Now, I want to take some credit for how the band got its name. You see Janice, Kathy, Elaine and Cheri Metcalfe and I were all driving around one night drinking a little wine in the winter of ’74, co-incidently named “Tickled Pink”, a delightful wine with no cork and less than $3.00 a bottle, and singing songs. It seems you can never get Metcalfes together without a little picking, grinning and drinking — but that is another story all by itself. The band “Pink Floyd” was popular at the time and we were all listening to them on the only radio we could get at the time, KFYR out of Bismarck. Well, lo and behold in the back of the car we were driving around in was a pink Frisbee and a pink scarf. Well to be funny, and after way too much wine, I used the scarf to tie the pink frisbee on my head and “PINK FLAUD” – the counry-bumpkin version of Pink Floyd – was born!! I couldn’t sing “Dark Side of the Moon,” but I was “Comfortably Numb” and having the time of my life with my favorite cousins.

Well we eventually made our way up to a party at Brian Fauske’s place in the hills. I remember it was a great party but it ended late. As we made our way back to Dunseith, I remember starting to get sick on the way down San Haven hill. How we made it to the little mobile home we lived in at the time without any regurgitation is beyond me. In any event, out of the car and into the house I bounded to get to the only bathroom in the house, which was right next to my mother’s bedroom. Well, she heard me get sick and she rushed in to see what was wrong. Well, I must have drank a beer with a cigarette put out inside as I brought up some tobacco with my wine. My mother screamed, “Oh my god, he is on marijuana!!!!!” I spent the rest of the night trying to convince her otherwise by incoherently telling her about Pink Flaud and Tickled Pink wine, and how it was those damn Metcalfe girls that led me astray!! Well, when I told the Janice and all about this story, they had no choice but to name the band “Tickled Pink.” Now you know the rest of the story.

{The above story as to the naming of the greatest band to ever come out of Dunseith is pure fiction and is not to be believed by any party, living or dying}

Lyle O.
Class of 1975

Reply from Bobby Slyter (70): Wichita, Kansas
to bev mornville: i truly do remember the tickled pick girls, they played for mom and dads 25th wedding anniversary party at the ac bar. good bunch of girls and great music
JUST LITTLE OLE ME FROM KANSAS
Bobby, Mel Kuhn just sent me a song from this group. I am going to send it to Bill Grimme to see if he can reduce the file size enough so we can post it with these daily messages. Gary
Reply from Vickie Hiatt LaFontaine (73): Grafton, ND
In reading todays stories it made me think of the dances dad and mom [ Norman and Irene Hiatt] use to have in the quensat [unsure of the spelling sorry] I was probably 5 years old. I remember the music, it was Norris and Bud Knutson and I believe Gary Olson. One of my fondest memories is doing the butterfly with Sharon and Jim Hansen. I remember mom making big kettles of sloppy joe and going to town to get the buns from the bakery. I also had a bed made for me under a counter. I remember dad telling a storie about my brother Jim and our cousin Clifford, apparently it was their job to pick up the beer cans and bottles the next morning, well I guess dad caught them poring all the cans together so theycould have a little refeshments after their work was done. I guess dad told them be careful drinking from those cans boys people could be peeing in them. I don’t remember if that stopped them or not. Vickie Hiatt LaFontaine
Vickie, I remember really well when your folks had those dances every Saturday night. We could see your house plain as day one mile to the east of our place. You guys sure drew the crowds and we could hear the music all the way to our house. Gary
Reply from Bob Lykins (mid 60’s DHS teacher): Germany & Hutto, TX
Gary,Ah, the PI. You gotta love the place. I recall a time when I was working the schools at Subic Bay Naval Station. In the evening I went into Olangapo (where the sewer meets the sea) to have dinner at a reputable resturant that I knew. I was alone and sat down in a booth putting my camera bag beside me. I never went anywhere without my camera (the original OM-1). A fellow came up to me and starting talking. He was friendly and, as I recall, we had a great conversation. Unbeknownst to me, his accomplis while I was distracted, had reached over the back of the booth, unzipped my camera bag, took out the camera, removed the camera from it’s case and replaced the case back into the bag zipping it back up. Since I had other items in the bag and the camera didn’t weigh that much, I never missed it until I got back to my quarters on base. Slick as a whistle it was. Naturally I had to report it for insurance purposes. Needless to say, nothing came of the investigation and I can only hope that the sale of the camera brought some poor family additional food and clothes.

Fond memories.

Bob Lykins

Bob, Events that draw a lot of people here in the PI also draw a lot of professional pick picketers from other areas of the country. One has to be careful. When ever I’m in a crowded area, even in the malls at busy times, I always place my wallet in my front pocket. Living in the heart of a true Filipino community with many very poor neighbors, we have never had anything stolen from our place. Because we have folks (helpers and some relatives) living in our compound, we never lock the gate into our place. We feel very secure. On the other hand, if someone tried to take anything, they’d have to go past many folks to get out of our area and believe me, these folks would tackle and catch who ever was running. A month or so ago a large truck had an accident on the main road that caused serious injuries to several folks riding motor cycles. Before the police arrived, the bystanders beat up this poor truck driver so bad that he had to be admitted to the hospital. Gary
From Mel Kuhn (70): Saint John, ND
Gary,
Here’s one for Bev Morinville Azure from back in the OLD DAYS. To make a long story short, after a conversation with Shelly Fulsebakke Albertson a while back, she dropped me off a CD of Tickle Pink. Crank up the speakers.
Rolette County Historical Society will be holding its Fun Night on April 18th at the Senior Center in St. John. We had a real good turn out last year with lots of great music from area talent such as “Hwy 43” and lots more.
Mel Kuhn
Mel, I forwarded “Tickle Pink” to our computer expert, Bill Grimme, to see if he could reduce the file size for group sending. He was able to reduce the file size considerably, but I feel it’s still a tab bit large to be included with one of our daily messages.
Folks, if you’d like a copy of “Tickle Pink”, please request a copy from Mel or myself and we’ll gladly forward you an electronic copy. Gary
Bev Morinville Azure’s (72) reply to Bernard Morin (76): Dunseith, ND
WOW , Bernard I didn’t hear a thing I am sure if I would have heard it I would have been dancing in the street after all they were the best band to dance to if I remember right. Those were the days and if I remember right Bernard it was whiskey not beer lol seems like forever since those days . If anyone knows where I can get a cd of Pickled I mean Tickled Pink please call me and let me know my number is 244 0775. Bernard as I remember these were the day when u learned to park in my drive way back in those days we didn’t have DD.

11/14/2015 (2312)

Happy Belated Birthday Ginger LaRocque Poitra (’65): Belcourt, ND
Ginger

 

Happy Birthday Judy Allery Azure (’65): Bismarck, NDAllery, Judy 2312

Happy Birthday Lynn Halvorson Otto (’75): Boonton, NJ
Halvorson Otto, Lynn 2312

Happy Birthday Aggie Casavant (’69): Modesto, CA
Aggie

 

Happy Birthday Don Aird: Fenton MO.
Don

Betty Hackman Schmidt (68) Mesa, AZ

Update from Larry Hackman (’66): Bismarck, ND

My  sister Betty was transferred from the Phoenix Hospital to the Mayo Hospital in Scottsdale Yesterday by ambulance (a twenty mile trip across town).

She is so weak that they are having problems keeping the water from accumulating around her heart and lungs.  They are going to attach some kind of pump to her heart to assist it.  I guess this pump is keeping old Dick C

heney alive.  I just hope she don’t get as grouchy or lose her hair and start to look and act like him.  Actually I don’t know if that’s  the side affects or not, but as long as it keeps her going.  Keep on praying.

Betty’s E-mail address;  bettyschmidt@yahoo.com

Her home address is;

Betty Schmidt

45697 W. Skylane

Maricopa, AZ. 85139

Her daughter Keri will deliver all messages and cards to her.

Thank You for your prayers.

Larry

 

Reply to Vickie Metcalfe’s Posting

From Lyle Olson (’75):   West Fargo, ND

Beautiful story by Vickie Metcalfe about Jack Metcalfe, my Uncle. She nailed his personality and temperament.

My mother Lorraine and Jack were very close. He spent a lot of time at our home, playing Banjo, eating the best food ever, and teasing us boys. Mom always made a big meal on Sunday. After the meal and after all the dishes were washed, the guitars and banjos would come out. They would play for hours, even though they also typically played at local bars every Friday and Saturday night. They just loved playing music and loved being together doing so.

As noted by Vickie, Uncle Jack and Uncle Bill served on the USS Boxer with my father, Orlin Olson. My mother and father divorced when I was rather young. Uncles Jack and Bill always made the effort to tell us boys about our father and their time in the Navy. I am sure some stories were not told but I remember having great pride in those three for serving our country during the Korean War.

ALS is an insidious disease. It may have taken Uncle Jack’s physical presence but it could not, and did not, take the twinkle in his eye.  I remember that most of all.

Lyle Olson

 

Joseph LaRocque Service yearsPosting pictures from Ginger LaRocque (’65):  Belcourt, ND

Gary,

I just wanted to say that,  my dad,  Joseph LaRocque was in the army. He was in World War I I along with his brother Jerome.

My dad always said “I just drove truck”,  I am sure that was an important job. He drove in black outs, driving blindly through the darkness of the night.  He learned to drive trucks,  I think it was when he worked for old man Gottbreth as he would say. He did learn to double clutch while working there, which he used a lot while in the service. Dad was proud to know how to do this, the other truck drivers had a hard time getting up the inclines. They wondered how he did it.  So he taught them how. They were very appreciative.

Dad’s brother Jerome on the other hand I don’t know a whole lot of what he did in the army. I remember talk of him getting the purple heart.

My grandpa Bergie, my mother’s father served during World War I.  I don’t know many details.  His brother also served at the same time.

I have a book which tells about the Bergie brothers I will have to find it and look up the information.

The book is about Native people who served during wars.

More later

Ginger (LaRocque) Poitra class of 65′

Joseph LaRocque
Ginger-1

Joseph LaRocque cousin Martin Delorme & Jerome LaRocque
ginger-2

Martin Bergie my grandfather
ginger-3

 

Yesterday’s veterans (Part 2 of 3)
Posting from Dale Pritchard (’63):  Leesville, LA

Charles Durning:  US Army;  Landed at Normandy on D-Day, shot multiple times, awarded the Silver Star, Bronze Star and three Purple Hearts, survived Malmedy Massacre

Raymond Burr:  US Navy, shot in the stomach on Okinawa and medically discharged

Hugh O’Brian:  US Marines

Eddie Albert:  US Coast Guard, Bronze Star with Combat V for saving several Marines under heavy fire as pilot of a landing craft during the invasion of Tarawa

Clark Gable:  US Army Air Corps, B-17 gunner over Europe

Charles Bronson:  US Army Air Corps, B-29 gunner, wounded in action

Peter Graves:  US Army Air Corps (Younger brother of James Arness)

Buddy Hackett:  US Army anti-aircraft gunner

Jack Palance:  US Army Air Corps, severely injured bailing out of a burning B-24 bomber

Robert Preston:  US Army Air Corps, Intelligence Officer

Cesar Romero:  US Coast Guard, participated in the invasions of Tinian and Saipan on the Assault transport USS Cavalier

Jason Robards:  US Navy aboard heavy cruiser USS Northampton when it was sunk off Guadalcanal.  Also served on the USS Nashville during the invasion of the Philippines, surviving a kamikaze hit that caused 223 casualties.

Dennis Weaver:  US Navy Pilot

Robert Taylor:  US Navy Instructor Pilot

Randolph Scott:  Tried to enlist in the Marines but was rejected due to injuries sustained in US Army in World War I

Ronald Reagan:  US Army;  Was a 2nd Lt. in the Cavalry Reserves before the war.  His poor eyesight kept him from being sent overseas with his unit when war came, so he transferred to the Army Air Corps Public Relations Unit where he served for the duration.

John Wayne:  Declared “4F medically unfit” due to pre-existing injuries, he nonetheless attempted to volunteer three times (Army, Navy and Film Corps (so he gets an honorable mention.

Audy Murphy:  He became America’s most-decorated soldier, who became a Hollywood star as a result of his US Army service that included his being awarded the Medal of Honor.

 

I don’t believe this is a complete list because I read somewhere that David Niven was involved in something also.  This is a pretty extensive list from the film and TV industry.  Jump forward a few years to Viet Nam, Iraq, Kuwait, Afganistan, and a few other unpleasant places.  Where were the actors of the day during these time frames?  Were they exempt?  Some of them were making movies about the wars without a clue to the reality of it all.  You have probably seen pictures of some of them wearing parts of military clothing with the rank still on them.  I’ll get off my soap box now!    To all the veterans of times past and those who are currently serving in the Armed Forces, Thank You!

Dale Pritchard
Viet Nam (1967. 1968, 1970, 1971, and 1975)

 

====================================
Blog (381) posted on February 26 , 2009

02/26/2009

Posted on February 26, 2009

Folks,

Bill Grimme has provided us with an updated report of those that have signed up for our Seattle reunion banquet and dinner. If you plan on attending, please send your payment to Bill. If for some reason, you are unable to attend, Bill can refund your money up until the time he has to make final payment to the Best Western on or before July 21st.

Gary

July 24th Seattle reunion update from Bill Grimme (65): BIRMINGHAM, AL

Folks,

Just a reminder-dinner reservations and payments postmarked in February will get 4 raffle tickets for each dinner. In March, it drops to 3 per dinner. So far, we have received a response from the following people:

 

 

Chuck Munro 2 dinners
Robert Hosmer 2 dinners
Gary Stokes 2 dinners
Nancy Baldwin 2 dinners
Diane and Scott Sjol 2 dinners
Randy Flynn 6 dinners
Gary Metcalfe 3 dinners

Bill Grimme 2 dinners

 

So, we have 21 diners at our reunion dinner, so far.

 

Hope to see a lot more folks there.

 

Drawing for free dinners will be in mid-June

Dinner Sign up form.

 

8:00 PM

-Served Dinner

 

 

Harvest Salad Greens

 

(with Tomato, Cucumber, Carrots, Red Onion and Croutons, served with our House Dressing)

 

-Pan Seared Chicken Breast @ $24.90 (all inclusive including tax and gratuityOR

 

(served with a Madeira/Port and Green Peppercorn Demi Glaze and Rice Pilaf)

 

– 10 oz. Certified Angus Beef New York Steak @ $34.10 (all inclusive including tax and gratuity)

 

(served with Garlic Mashed Potatoes and a Side of Béarnaise)

 

FreshGarden Vegetables

 

Focaccia Bread/Butter

 

Freshly Brewed Coffee, Decaffeinated Coffee or Tea

 

APPLE PIE FOR DESSERT

 

To attend this dinner, just fill in the following selections for you or your party, send me a check, and I will return a receipt.

NumberEntréePrice

Extended price

 

______Pan Seared Chicken Breast$24.90___________

______Angus Beef New York Steak$34.10___________

 

TOTAL FOR YOU PARTY ___________

 

Send Check to Bill Grimme,

3117 Memory Brook Circle,Birmingham,AL35242

.Phone 205-991-6512.

 

Hope to see you all there. Thank you.

 

Bill Grimme Class of ‘65

  

Reply from Bernard Morin (76):Dunseith, ND

 

I just read Bev’s comment on “Tickle Pink” which brought back a lot of memories, most of them kind of fuzzy. You see Tickle Pink was very conducive to beer drinking, come to think of it everything was conducive to beer drinking back in those days. Anyway back to the band, in my opinion they were the best band around as they always packed the house wherever they played. I’m not sure but I think that somebody made a C D of some of their music. Last summer Travis Metcalf came roaring into my driveway on his Harley with Tickle Pink jamming on his radio, I don’t know which was louder, the Harley, the music, or the neighborhood dogs. I can’t believe Bev didn’t hear it, as we only live a block away from each other. Maybe Trav or Janice would have some info on wheather there is a C D available.

 Thanks. Bernard

 

 

 

From Mark Schimetz (70): Rolette, ND

Gary, Dick , Thanks for the correction, The Senior Center in Dunseith I presume. Please Correct me If I am wrong. Also I apologize for forgetting to mention, the Song about Pierre Bottineau that was written by Ron Hett. as I had intended too. (Guess I had a senior moment there. Not the first one I assure you!, and probably more to come along.)

I especially enjoyed this as it was the first time I heard the song.

Being a Mary Robbins fan, I believe this song would have greatly been appreciated the famous Ballad singer (deceased). If memory serves me, Many of Marty’s Older Ballads, came from his Grandfathers time. Stories and Songs played. Hence the gunfighter ballads etc, for the 19th Century.

 

 

 

Great suggestion from Larry Hackman (66): Bismarck, ND

 Gary

I was just thinking that we must be nearing the anniversary of Vance Bailey’s passing. I think it would be neat to post some of his stories in remembrance of his time he spent with us. In fact it would be a way to honor all of those that took time to join us and that have left us. What do you think?

Larry

Larry, This is a wonderful suggestions. Vance Bailey actually pasted away December 22, 2007. Vance is the pioneer that energized these daily blogs into being. The memories and tributes of his passing are far too many to list in a single email message, however I will post the last letter that he shared with us just prior to his passing. What a remarkable man he was. He possessed a wealth of history & stories for the Dunseith and Rolette county areas. He and his wife Doreen collected and recorded a lot of the history of the area with their genealogy interests. One of the things they did was make a recording of all the local cemeteries listing all those that are buried in each of them. Gary

 Vance’s wife Doreen is on our distribution. Her email address is Tempe, AZ

 Vance Bailey’s letter that he wrote at 2:00 PM on December 21, 2007, just eleven and a half hours prior to his passing.

 Gary,

 I spent an hour or two last night talking to Carol Watkins and Emory Carbonneau in Bottineau. I read all the correspondence that you have been posting.

Some things that have come to mind that we discussed. Mac McHugh. He and his wife owned the Dakota Hotel that was directly north of the Drug store where Glen Shelver was the druggist and I am sure later owned. In the mid forties Shirley Sunderland worked there as a “sodajerk”.

 There was an old Socony Vacuum (later Standard Oil) filing station in front of the hotel that had gas pumps that had a glass tank that held 10 gallons of gas at about 18 cents a gallon. The guy that operated the station would let us kids pump the gas up into the tank once in a while.

 

There was a row of rooms along the north lot line of the Hotel and the one facing main street was the U.S. customs office manned by Henry Sunderland. When you crossed the border in those days you stopped in Dunseith to declare anything you brought across the border. I’m not aware of anyone ever stopping to declare anything.

We did have some excitement in those days, a nurse up at the San was murdered by Fred Chase and the trial was held in Dunseith. Carol tells me that our teacher got permission to take our school class to watch the trial. My most outstanding memory of the murder was the first night they had him locked in the Jail located in a long low building just north of the skating rink. Several of us kids were there until the crowd broke out a rope and threw it over the crossbar on the streetlight, then they made us all go home. We were all sorry to miss the hanging, but the adults chickened out so we did not miss anything.

How many of you remember the Waldron that was the Dunsrith policeman that caught a thief coming out of one of the buildings north of the bank one night. Carol reminds me that he was chasseing him down the alley and as he came to the fence back of the bank Jules Waldron fired over his head to stop him. The trouble was that the robber jumped up to go over the fence and stopped the bullet with his head. Jules had two boys in school and they left town. No good deed goes unpunished!!

 

For Collette,

The Baileys and the Hosmers intermarried a couple of times (that’s cousins) in the late 1600s and early 1700s in the New England Colonies.

 Vance Bailey

Bailey Family Research
1418 E Gemini Drive
Tempe, AZ 85283

 Doreen’s message:

 Vance passed away this morning at 1:30– Dec 22
Doreen Bailey, wife
Tempe, Az

Vance’s obit.

Note we are having a service in Tempe, AZ, Dec. 29th, but his final resting place will be at Riverside Cemetery in Dunseith, ND. A grave side service will be planed around Memorial Day. His parents and sister are there, he always said that’s where he wanted to go.

—- Thank you all for the prayers and condolence messages. I am still in shock of the suddenness of his passing. I have had his love for more then 55 years.

I’ve enjoyed the emails along with Vance, we even had our daughter with us at the 125th Celebration. She was ready to move to ND, she really enjoyed the towns of Bottineau and Dunseith. There will be memorial site of picture on www.mem.com by Thursday and anyone wishes to add their though-it can be done on the site. Search by name, Bailey, then Vance Allen… Thanks for caring Doreen Bailey

Obituary: Vance Allen Bailey
1928 – December 22, 2009

Picture taken 2006
Bailey, Vance 2310

Born in Bottineau North Dakota on February 8, 1928 to Virgil and Marie Bailey. Vance passed away December 22, 2007 at his home in Tempe, AZ. 

His service record is long: He was in the Navy at the age of 16 and the last phases of WWII. Joined the Air Forceafter the war, attended college inMinotND. then was on Military Sea Transport in the Merchant Marines for the Korean war. He sailed on many ships and visited many ‘far away places.’ Vance met his loving wife Doreen in Seattle. They married is 1952.

After that he settled down, they did many different things before coming to Arizona in 1980. Vance was employed at Boeing Aircraft for 15 years. Then went into free enterprise: Real Estate, owned a Tavern and Bowling Ally in Ephrata, Washington.

 In Phoenix he worked for the Maricopa Highway Department doing appraisals for right of way. Later he went into Appraisal /Analyst of Real Estate contract and property values for the Bureau of Indian Affairs Real Estate Department and retired from that department in 1993. He loved his job.

He read when he wasn’t listening to the news or on the computer, loved old LP records. Vance was a news/political and history junkie.

During his retirement he ventured into Genealogy and now has over 9100 relatives in his records. Some going back to the 1500’s in England.

Vance’s passions, other than his family, were old cars, motorcycles, reading, current events, politics, history and lively conversation 

His parents Virgil and Marie Bailey and sister Ardis preceded him in death.

Survived by his spouse Doreen Bailey, daughter Dayna Rasor, grandson Colin Rasor, daughter-in law Donna Rasor, sister Sharon Conn, brothers Wayne and Gary Bailey.

Memorial Service Will be held December 29 at 11 AM at the Carr-Tenney Mortuary 2621 south Rural Rd, Tempe.

In lieu of flowers /donations maybe made to the American Heart Association

If you are unable to attend, a slide show will be available on www.Mem.com and you will be able to leave your condolences.

Vance’s burial will be in Bottineau ND in the spring of 2008

 

 

 

 

11/11/2015 (2311)

Thanks to all the Veterans
Posting from Ginger LaRocque Poitra (‘’65):  Belcourt, ND

This is to thank all the veterans from the class of 65′ for serving our country during the Vietnam War. I would also like to thank all the current soldiers serving along with all the veterans from all the military branches for their service to our country.

Your service and sacrifices are greatly appreciated.

It is and has been each and everyone of you that has helped to maintain our freedom!

Happy Veterans Day!!

Ginger,  class of 65′

Stokes

 

Veterans Day
Posting from Vickie Metcalfe (’70):  Bottineau, ND

Gary and Dunseith Friends,

It is now November 7, 2015.

Beginning in September, a cousin’s wife wrote; she was helping her grand daughter with a school Veteran’s Day project.  They were seeking information on her brother-in law Jack. 

I had always known, three of my Uncle Bill and Aunt Mary’s sons ; Robert served in the Pacific in WWII. Later. Billy and Jack served in Korea.

I suggested to Jack’s sister -in- law, about  book located at the Veterens service office and  perhaps at larger library. A book lists every service members home county, rank, year of service.  

She found the book at the library.  

She discovered several Metcalfe’s who served; Charles, Emil, Clifford and Robert WWII. John and William in  Korea.

Among that lot;

John Wesley Metcalfe served in the United States Navy from December 1952-December 1955.   Jack’s brother, Billy served on the same ship as did Orlan Olson.  All served with honor.

She  told a story told to her by Jack about the ship on fire and sinking. The Metcalfe  brother’s, were concerned about  friend, quickly found  him each seized an arm and jumped. As they hit the water, the poor guy yelled,”You know I can’t swim!” Jack replied, “Move your arms, you are going to learn today.”

He swam. The little fourth grade granddaughter now had a place to begin writing her Veterans Day report,

I am recalling  memories of Jack.  

Mom and Dad had spoken fondly of  Jack who came and worked for my parents one fall when I was a wee baby.  

He went away to the Navy.

When I was  a little more than three years old, Jack came back to work for Mom and Dad; he had just been released from military service. 

My parents were happy he was back. They could depend on him to help.  As a child I felt the ease mom and dad around Jack. And, Jack and Dad enjoyed swapping tales.

That winter, Dad was plastering Belcourt hospital or school.  Mom was expecting another child.

Jack  listened  to kids and spoke in words we understood.  He was never disrespectful to my parents. They could count on him coming to help ‘chore’. 

 Dad had fed the cattle before going to Belcourt early in the morning; he’d hand pump water, feed cattle by hand with hayrack and team. 

Jack lived about 5 miles west in his parental home.  He drove over each day to  milk cows and clean  the barn.

Jack took my elder sister to her first day of  first grade. The country school  was about 2 miles West, cross country through the snow at  Oakes a.k.a Seim School. 

He picked up my sister carried her out side put her in the straw on the stone boat, which was  pulled by Barney the white percheron. Later in the afternoon he would go get her and start evening chores. 

When he had a break he began teaching himself to play banjo. T’was then, my parents thoughts of me being a pianist were doomed; as watching Jack, childlike decided I wanted to pick banjo. The little windup play guitar was a solace and he’d pick, I’d wind up my Christmas guitar and together we’d ‘play’. He never made fun, or talk down to me.

I attached myself to him as I did the Jim Metcalfe girls.  I knew he was my cousin, and with childlike trust, I bonded with ‘Smilin’ Jack. 

I  was a pest to Jack,who maintained a  jolly and  kind personality, had infinite patience and tolerance with my 3 year old mind. 

I  watched and persisted  with constant inquisitve questioning of what he was doing with that  rather odd looking ‘guitar’?

 In June 1956, I went to stay with the Jim Metcalfe farm, my elder sister stayed with King Fish and Fafa Seim so she could continue grade one.

My mother went to Bottineau to have a baby. And, Dad and Jack? They batched.  Jack would laugh, “Lottie left ham. Cliff fried ham and eggs for breakfast, we ate ham sandwiches for dinner, and ate ham and fried potatoes or hominy for supper.   He said, HAM for every meal 3 x a day!  But it was good. 

 

My fond friendship with my cousin ensued  though the years.

 

I had a tough accident, it was Jack who rang me up at St. Alexis hospital.  Not once. But every day he phoned me every afternoon after therapy at Bismarck and continued through the summer. He’d ask?I answer, “I’m fine.” 

Cousin Jack, every day continued  ringing me on the phone, calling from Georgia. 

Jack,”I am fine, Mom drives me over to  physical therapy every day and I walk away to the highway.” 

One day, no phone call…..Surprise! On that warm August late afternoon, into the yard came a car with Georgia plates.

I met Jack in the yard, as he  said,  “I needed to be sure you really were o.k.”

 

He spent the entire afternoon visiting with mom and I.  Delighting us with silly stories, of pickin guitar with mountain folk locals at various places in Georgia.  Crazier tales of people who attend a church on every street corner and…. worship dancing with snakes curled in their arms! ….OMG! I’d say, and listened to more tales as only Jack could tell. Laughter!

The Worst News EVER about Jack, came one evening, when mom rang me in Montana.

…. Devastating below the belt….staggering hit….A durty……. PUNCH was drawn on Jack.

 He was stricken with an ugly, filthy, agonizing disease. 

 

It never stopped, relentless, first taking away his deft fingers, he could not pick blue grass joyfully. Taking away energy.

 

It continued  seizing,  eating,  consuming  and finally ravaged its course through  his entire body.  

I had the most difficult time gutting it up to go see him. (I have always been tender about people  loved.

I am one of those  who reads the back of the book first to see if it ends well.  My brother has counted times when I get up and leave the room when some scary or sad show comes on.)

Before I went to see Jack, I needed courage to be strong. I knew about what he faced,because, a best friends mother had just passed from the same illness.

Finally I summoned strength, I thought I can do this, I have…courage.

I went alone the first time to see him.

 

The courage was not lasting, a last residue of courage stripped away when I saw him. I wept openly.  Saying,Jack, “I am so sorry I couldn’t come sooner.  

(You see, my brave Korean War Veteran, banjo pickin cousin,could no longer lift his head, nor his hands and fingers, sat limp and weak in a wheel chair.)                                      ] 

I got on my knees to look up at his eyes, his face.

His soft melodius voice spoke, “I know you Vickie.  I  have always known why, you couldn’t come. I knew you’d be here,when you were ready.”

Yes. Jack understood. We always shared the wealth of our families. As with many of my cousins, that wealth is deep. 

At its depth is a fond sentimental family understanding; as humans we each have imperfections, and an  absolute unconditional Love and forgiveness.

My Dad had always said he thought perhaps this was  combination of the our Scots blood and French.

Yep. Most times that sentimental genetic line has me snottering. 

 Any way, ……..I have always wondered if serving on a USA war ship during Korea with ‘asbestos’ aided another deadly enemy, ALS?

 Jack fought on a ship in Korean waters.  He survived one war.  He was a proud and honorable American Veteran.

Later, ALS got his body….  

But never did it get his spirit. 

God Bless America each and every day!

Thank You to each American Veteran on Wednesday, November 11, 2015.

Until Later, Vickie Leona Metcalfe

 

Christmas Craft show
Posting from Neola Kofoid Garbe:  Bottineau & Minot, ND
christmans

 

Yesterday’s veterans (Part 2 of 3)
Posting from Dale Pritchard (’63):  Leesville, LA

Gary,

Here is Part 2 of the Movie Actor Veterans follows:

Robert Stack:  US Navy Gunnery Officer

Neville Brand:  US Army Europe;  Awarded the Silver Star and Purple Heart

Tyrone Power:  US Marines; Transport pilot in the Pacific Theater

Charlton Heston:  US Army Air Corps; Radio operator and aerial gunner on a B-25, Aleutians

James Arness:  US Army; As an infantryman, he was severely wounded at Anzio, Italy (Older brother of actor Peter Graves)

Efram Zimbalist, Jr:  US Army; Purple Heart for a severe wound received at Huertgen Forest

Mickey Spillane:  US Army Air Corps Fighter Pilot and later Instructor Pilot

Rod Sterling:  US Army 11th Airborne Division in the Pacific. Jumped at Tagaytay in the Philippines and was later wounded in Manila

Gene Autry:  US Army Air Corps; Crewman on transports that ferried supplies over “The Hump” in the China-Burma-India Theater

William Holden:  US Army Air Corps

William Conrad:  US Army Air Corps Fighter Pilot

Jackie Coogan:  US Army Air Corps; Volunteered for gliders and flew troops and materials into Burma behind enemy lines

Tom Bosley:  US Navy

Claude Akins:  US Army Signal Corps; Burma and the Philippines

Chuck Conners:  US Army Tank-warfare instructor

Karl Malden:  US Army Air Corps, 8th Air Force, NCO

Earl Holliman:  US Navy;  Lied about his age to enlist.  Discharged after a year when the Navy found out

Don Knotts:  US Army, Pacific Theater

Don Rickles:  US Navy aboard USS Cyrene

Robert Stack:  US Navy Gunnery instructor

Lee Van Cleef:  US Navy;  Served aboard a sub chaser and a mine sweeper

Jack Warden:  US Navy, 1938 – 1942, then US Army 1942 – 1945;  101st Airborne Division

Don Adams:  US Marines;  Wounded on Guadalcanal, then served as a Drill instructor

Brian Keith:  US Marines Radioman / Gunner in Dauntless dive-bombers

Fess Parker:  US Navy and US Marines;  Booted from pilot training because he was too tall, joined Marines as a radio operator

Part 3 to follow.

Dale Pritchard

 

====================================
Blog (380) posted on February 26 , 2009

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02/26/2009

Posted on February 26, 2009

Folks, The TV Cable sales man was just here and returned the money from yesterday’s story. Because of this, he lost his job. We just talked to the supervisor that I was dealing with at the Cable company and he said there is a big, in house, investigation going on because if this incident. They discovered that there were quite a few folks involved from different deparments in the company with this under the table deal they made with me. This is the only TV cable company that services this Island, so they are quite large.

 

Request from Martha Lamb Schepp (68): Newburg, ND

Hi Gary,

We are enjoying the service you provide to all of us who enjoy the times of days gone by. Shane Lester would like to be added to your list serve. Thanks for all that you do.

Martha Lamb Schepp, Newburg, ND ’68

It is my pleasure to add Shane Lester to our distribution. I believe Shane is the guy that is related to the Cook’s and House’s from Little Prairie. He would also be related to some of the Espe’s, Millang’s and Salmonson’s. I believe you mentioned that Shane works with your husband in the Newburg area. Gary

 

 

From Bev Morinville Azure (72): Dunseith, ND

I am not sure if you know this or not but back in the 70’s there was a group of gals from here that were all the rage. The groups name was Tickled Pink and it was one of the best bands around here. The members were Janice, Kathy, Elaine and Cheri Metcalfe and Shelly Fulsebakke. They played all over and we had a blast when they would be at the AC or up at Kelvin. They played country plus oldies these were a talented bunch of woman . Anyone have any memories they can share about the band . I do remember they walked into the AC bar with the idea of forming a band and walked out with enough money to start. Alot of people supported them.

 GOD BLESS YOU …………BEV

 

 

From Mark Schimetz (70): Rolette, ND

Hey Gary, Dick Johnson, his wife Brenda and Ron Hett played for us at the Good Sam’s Nursing home on Sunday in Bottineau. In celebration of Mid’s 90th Birthday. The room was large, packed, and short of chairs. The music was grand, They played a song “Chancellor Ville” from the Civil War era, a blue grass tune from the movie “Oh! Brother where art thou?” , some Johnny Cash, Merle Haggard and Charlie Prides “Crystal Chandelier”, Cashes, Folsom Prison and Haggard’s, The Bottle let me down. The Music was preformed with a guitars, a banjo and large base guitar played by Brenda, Ron Hett switched back and forth from his guitar to his banjo as Dick Johnson set the lead.

 

There were a lot of smiles on the residents and visitors faces and wondering expressions of days gone by, countenanced on the faces of many of the elders. Dick and company were to play for an hour, however, they were asked to stay another hour and they gladly accepted the invitation to the great delight of all in attendance.

Shortly after the first hour Gary Fulsebakke arrived and joined in for a short time to sing Happy Birthday to his Mother and all joined in. Gary then Borrowed a guitar and moved to the south wing where the special celebration was given for his mother where she lauded with songs and remembrances of days gone by and serenaded by Gary with gospel music she loved to sing all her life. Gary had some cute stories about the early days at home and I hope to get him to share them with us.

I have been informed that on March 8th 2009, Dick and Friends will play at Good Sam’s , and every 2nd Sunday of the Month. there after. This is the plan according to Dick.

Thank you Dick, Brenda and Ron, and Gary for the great music. You all put a lot of smiles on the people Sunday and I know some really felt alive again and left that home for a couple hours in their minds, lost in time following the sweet music you all played and if they don’t remember much, I am sure the music will not be forgotten. Music soothes the soul.

God Bless you all, and keep up the gallant work as long as you can.

mschimetz@msn.com

 

 Dick Johnson’s (70) reply: Dunseith, ND

 Gary,

Thanks for the advance copy of Mark’s nice write-up. The name of our
group is ‘Highway 43’, we felt it was fitting as most of the musicians
we have in this area live on or within a couple miles of 43. It seems
it’s always been that way, if you think back. Ole Bursinger, Lorraine
Metcalfe, Jack Metcalfe, Carl and Shirley Melgaard, Hank Salmonson, Pete
Berginski, Sharon Albertson, Kenny Sivertson for a few from back in the
day. It’s somewhat the same now with just a few more names thrown in the
mix. I never considered the idea of so many pickers and singers along
‘ol 43 until someone asked us to pick out a name for the group. We sure
do have fun doing these little ‘gigs’ and if folks like our music, that
is an added bonus! Thanks Mark and Gary!

Dick

Gary,

I just reread Mark’s story and need to enter a correction. We are
jamming at the senior center every second Sunday–Mark said Good Sam.
Thanks!

Dick

Dick, I’ll bet you will draw quite a crowd too, of all ages, when folks know you are going to be there. It’s wonderful that you are doing this for the community. Gary

 

 

 

11/8/2015 (2310)

Happy Birthday Holly Myer Wheeler (’68): Casper, WY
Myer Wheeler, Holly 2310

 

Reply to  Randy Kelly and Toni Morinville Prom photo
From Dewy Morinville (’72):  Dunseith, ND

I remember when Toni (my oldest sister) and randy Kelly went out.
Also remember when dr Kitt the magician would come to the old show hall. He would hypnotize randy would sing.   Let me tell you about the birds and the bees. He did a good job never knew if randy was hypnotize or not but he did a good job. Back then the boys had grease back hair. Brylcream was big back then a little dab will do yah. White tee shirts with a pack of cigarettes rolled up in one sleeve. Leather jackets. Oh the good old day.
The girls with saddle shoes bobby socks and the can cans.  Oh the hairdos . My three older sisters playing with paper dolls. Listening to 45 records on the little flip top record player. Playing jacks then I would step on one of those jacks and yell at them to pick them up when there done. One Christmas the girls each receive a little sewing machine about the size of a shoe box that really worked. They were neat.    Thanks for the memories
Dewy Morinville

 

Rosie Hackman
Question from Marlys Hiatt (’71):  Dunseith, ND

Every time I see Larry Hackman’s name on the blog I always think of my 3rd grade classmate Rosie Hackman. Larry is that your sister?  If so, what happened to her?  Where is she now?  I don’t seem to remember her much after the 3rd grade.  I’m thinking her family moved.

Third grade is the first year I rode the bus to Dunseith to go to school.  I attended the Ackworth country school for 1st and 2nd grade.  Rosie was my first friend at school.  I had been the only one in my grade when I attended Ackworth school.  I remember Rosie had the prettiest red coat I had ever seen.  The next time I needed a coat the only coat I wanted to have was one exactly like Rosie’s.

I was also very shy at that time and it was quit an adjustment to go from a 1 room country school house to the town school.  When it came to reading in front of the class, I was too shy to read out loud.  The teacher thought I couldn’t read and sent a note home to my parents that I had to go to summer school to learn how to read.  This puzzled my parents but they didn’t question the teacher and managed to bring me into town every day to summer school.  After a few days another note was sent home from the summer school teacher.  This time the teacher wondered why I was in summer school, I could read just fine.  After a meeting between my parents and the teacher, it was decided I would continue to attend summer school to help with my shyness, which it did.

Marlys Hiatt

 

Canada’s new defence minister
Posting from Vickie Metcalfe (’70): d Bottineau, ND

>>> Gary and friends,

>>> http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/harjit-sajjan-badass-

>>> canada-defence-minister-1.3304931

>>> I am watching Canada.

>>> They have been a great ally of the USA.

>>>

>>> As a kid, our  parents took us through the  summer on Saturday

>>> nights to Boisevain, Manitoba to the shows.

My parents welcomed Saturday nights north of the border which continued to thrive; long  after Dunseith stopped  the Saturday nights stores open.

…………….Time and Things changed  Dunseith.

Gone were the Saturday nights of  my parents taking cream to Minnie Alvin’s  and eggs to Hannah at the Red Owl

or Hosmer store.

 

>>> While we girls went to a show, Dad and mom would shop at Co-op.

>>> It was  quite different, because we did not go to Dunseith or

>>> Bottineau any more, as often as we went to Canada Being shy,  we

>>> †hree girls did not mingle .

>>>

>>> After mom learned to knit the winter of 1963-64  in Marysville, WA,

>>> she’d drive N. to Canada for Wool.

>>> I inherited  the beautiful wool sweater she knit for my Dad. After

>>> dad’s passing I contacted  my former grades 7 and 8 teacher, Mrs.

>>> Anna Foss who lined Dad’s sweater for me .

>>>

>>> Mom also drove us to Lake William and Adam Lake for mid week picnics

>>> on hot summer days; especially after the Church of the Bretheran

>>> Lake aka School Section became littered with broken bottles  and was

>>> deemed unsafe.  Mind you though we never went anywhere during haying

>>> season except to the hayfield.

 

>>> Two  of my grandfathers were born in Canada.

>>> Grandpa Robert E. Lamb and GrandpaW. Metcalfe came to US  from

>>> Ontario as young men Mom who kept connections going, also had a

>>> cousin on the Lamb side who served in WWII; she continued

>>> correspondence with  Ontario cousins until her passing..

>>>

>>> I hope Canada  will continue to  thrive as a good neighbor and ally;

My  long term  bucket list is a wish to ride the Canadian rail from Brandon to Prince Edward Island; and N. to Hudson Bay.

>>> Later,  Vickie

 

====================================
Blog (379) posted on February 24 , 2009

02/24/2009

Note of appreciation to Dick Johnson from Sharon Zorn Gerdes (62):Windsor, CO
Just a note of appreciation. Perhaps I have missed it, but I was unaware that Dick Johnson and his wife sang. My mom lives in Oak Manor in Bottineau, and several of the ladies there say that they sing very well. I just want to say thank you to Dick and wife, because those senior ladies enjoy and appreciate it so much when people take the time to share their talents. So thanks for your kindness. Sharon Gerdes
Sharon: Dick & Brenda have a band, I believe along with Keith Smith and a few others.
Dick: Can you please fill us in with a few more details of your band?
Don Boardman along with Dan & Tina Pladson also have a gospel band. Can you guys fill us in with some of the details of your band too.
Sharon: I did not realize that your mother lives at Oak Manor. There are a number of the senior Dunseith Alumni living there. It’s a neat facility. They have a really nice common area for everyone’s enjoyment that alleviates a lot of loneness and boredom for those living there. Gary
Cancer update from Dwight Lang (61): Tucson, AZ
Hi there Friends,
Finally getting around to checking my email. 500 plus in the in box. Been out of commission with my colon cancer surgery thing.
Enjoyed the wild life pictures compliments of cousins, Rod and Brian. Lucky I never met the little squirrel looking fellow while carrying my trusty 22 through the foothills some forty years ago. And Dick J., enjoyed your addition to the Martin story and especially the picture of those super bar tenders. I was a bit young to be a customer but I did poke my head in the door from the bowling alley side many times. Usually to hit my Dad up for a few quarters to play the pinball machines while I was waiting for his card game to end with Johnny Hill, Don Darling and the other regulars.
Well the operation went as good as to be expected. I spent five days in the hospital (without a smoke) and then was sent home as soon as I had bowel activity. It was no fun. But, after a few days home I got a call from the surgeon and he told me that the lab results were all good (no cancer in lymph nodes, etc.). Had the staples pulled last Thursday and he told me to come back in a couple months for another look see. He also mentioned that I should have another colonoscopy next year as well. Guess I can handle that. Oh by the way, the chimney is smoking again.
Would you believe today it is supposed to be in the upper eighties down here in Tucson. That’s a bit too soon for me. I’m looking forward as usual to spending my summer back at Lake Metigoshe but I’m hoping the Tucson heat holds off for at least a couple more months.
Well, take care and thanks to all for your concern. Francie Gottbreht (63) told me it would all be OK.
Dwight
Cancer Update from, and Neola Kofoid Garbe’s reply to Gary: Bottineau/Minot ND
Mom/I are back from Minot; it took longer than I thought it would. I knew I wouldn’t be going back to Minot tonight. Wally says the weather is bad for tomorrow, so after Mom’s appointment, I rescheduled by radiation appointment. I scheduled it for next Monday at 2:00. I’ll be in Bottineau until Sunday. The surgeon got all the cancer. The area around where the cancer was, is “clean”. The treatments are for cautionary reasons, not to kill any cancer that’s there. I started taking anti-estrogen pills a few days ago. I haven’t had any side-effects from them. :)
Neola
Reply from Geri Metcalfe Monro (59): Fargo, ND
Gary,
Our friend, Betty (Allard) Heinz, class of 1960, married Ron Heinz, is also a daughter of Olivine Allard. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Betty and Ron and their family. Betty is flying home from Mesa, AZ tomorrow. We are with them in thought and prayer, even though we cannot make the trip back home.
Geri Metcalfe Munro, class of 1959; (Betty was class of 1960) and Chuck Munro–Fargo, ND.Note: Gary, it would be nice sometimes if folks would state their current city and state. I have not saved nor could I download all info re: addresses.
Where does Gary Fulsebakke live now; I remember that he was a very accomplished singer and my sis, Marg Metcalfe Leonard said he read a note I sent Gary F. (at Mid’s birthday party–I never even knew her name was Mildred). lol

Geri, I will start adding the city and state for our folks. That’s a wonderful idea. I too did not realize Mid’s name was Mildred. She was always Mid in my growing up days. Gary
Reply from Gary Metcalfe (57): Forsyth, MO
Reply to Bonnie:
Rural schools were not as boring as home schooling, but we lost a year or more with eight months school and staying out to harvest and haying. I remember the first day, Dad hooked up to an honest to goodness buggy, with springs and all, naturally he took a short cut to save a mile or so through Erman Striker’s pasture. The water came right up to the floor boards, so we went via the road the next six years. We had three and a half miles, so did Faye and Doris Honsey. Horses are all about competition and old Dewey did very well keeping up that one mile straight north where we parted company with the Honsey girls. It was all bare back in those days and when it would rain, that big mud puddle in the road did me in a couple times, riding double. Dewey would shy around the puddle and I never could be sure which side he would take. Fanny and Dusty were spirited horses of the Honsey girls and Bernice Jasper. The girls were excellant riders.Alas, the buggy was short lived, Martin Evans hooked Dewey up one morning and the barn door was open about two feet, Dewey decided to go back in the barn. Viola…that was the end of the buggy.

So now we got a cart with straight schaves and no springs, then a Ford tractor. Sometimes when the weather was favorable they took us to school and we would walk home. As if three and a half miles one way wasn’t enough, we took turns carrying water for school use a half mile. We put a stick through the handle of a 3 gal. pail, with a kid on each side.

On Monday morning that three and a half miles was actually four miles, for Dewey had a thick hide and had to go about a fourth of mile and come back home and get a good spanking from a grown up. Then the rest of the week, he was o.k. over the weekend he would forget and have to be tuned up again.

A typical lunch pail was a one gal. pail with nail holes in the lid for air. In hot weather, peanut butter and jelly sandwiches became soggy, for variety mustard or a dill pickle sandwich was good.

Most teachers had it worse than the kids. Clara Weaver had at least three miles because of no roads and I know Mrs. Graybill stayed at the school lots of times. Enough of that for now.

Age 14 life changed. Paved streets, hot lunches and a great job setting pins to pay rent with. Too bad Bertha Vanorny, Bertha Myer and Myrtle Hoopman got a part of that hard earned money. But I did finally learn to hold my own in a game of Smear. Life was great and still is.
Gary Metcalfe

Reply/Picture from Kenny Nerpel (65): Devils Lake, ND
Gary,Regarding Rabbit City Lake:

The enclosed photo is of my Grandfather, William Bryan Metcalfe.
It was taken in 1919 and the lake in the background could very
well be the Rabbit City Lake that has been discussed. It took
awhile to find it. It sounds like there are others out there who
file like I do. A scoop shovel and four or five unlabeled
garbage bags.

Kenny

William Bryan Metcalfe
From Dick Johnson (68): Dunseith, ND
Gary and Friends,I found this article amusing! Just about every move was covered by the
Dunseith Journal in the mid ’30s! Thanks Gary!

Dick

Folks, I’ve got a little extra room today so I want to share a story with you. Gary – Philippines
We currently have a satellite TV dish here in the Philippines, but would like to have cable service too. We are several hundred feet beyond the allowable distance for getting cable. Last Friday I called the worker bee lineman, who had been to our house, to discuss how we could get their service. Following my conversation with him, I called his boss to discuss this topic in more detail for us to be able to get their cable service. The boss told me he would send a field engineer out to our house on Monday. Lone behold, on Saturday we got a visit from one of the cable salesman. I was surprised to see him. I said “did Tony (the Boss) send you” and he said yes. He was a very nice gentleman. He looked everything over and said the extra cost for materials would be $250. He said if I gave him the money then, he’d be able to install the service Monday morning. Knowing he was from the cable company and thinking the boss had sent him, I gave him the money. On Sunday this salesman comes back with the worker bee lineman, I had called on Friday, to get everything set for the installation the next day. Monday morning rolls around and no one is here to install our cable, so I called the boss. The boss says I didn’t send that salesman to your house. In fact he said I sent my field engineer out to your house early this morning to look things over and we can provide you service with no extra material costs like we had discussed when I called him on Friday. He was very surprised when I told him I had given his salesman $250. He said you will get your money back. The salesman did not know I had been talking to his boss. He was trying to give us service under the table and got caught. When they came Monday morning to install the cable, they saw the field Engineer at our house and ran. The worker bee lineman called the salesman and that is how they got involved. They pocketed the $250. They also involved one of the other engineers of the company too. I am currently waiting for the salesman to return the money. I think he has probably spent the money, so he’s probably trying to borrow the money at this time. All three of these guys have been working for the cable company for a number of years. At the moment their jobs are on the line and will for sure be fired and possibly go to jail if the money is not returned. The salesman sent me a text message telling me he is very worried about loosing his job. He said he has 5 children to support. These guys make good wages too, but greed got in the way when they saw this American guy. They didn’t realize that I’m seasoned to their shenanigans. Gary

11/6/2015 (2309)

Reply from Randy Kelly (’69):  St. Paul, MN.

Hi Gary,

Was going thru your blog and saw my name and face.  Thank you.  I must say I have not seen that prom picture in over 45 years. Oh to be young again.

Thank you also for the open invitation to visit you in Cebu. I hope to be able to do that sometime in the future.  I love to travel and meet people.  You are very kind.

Thanks again for all that you do to make so many people happy. My best to your family.

Warmly,

Randy

 

Gary’s reply

Thank you so much Randy for the nice compliment. This I believe is the picture you are referring too with you and Toni Morinville in 1968. This was over 47 years ago.

Yes, we’d love to have you and anyone else interested in visiting this part of the world visit us. Our daughter is here now with our Granddaughter. They got round trip tickets from Seattle to Cebu for less than $900 total with Korean airlines. Jan-Mar is Low season for travel to the Philippines.

Folks, Randy’s mother was a Fauske, Sister to Elwood and Lydia LaCroix. Elwood and Eleanore recently celebrated their 73rd wedding anniversary.

Randy, I googled some of your accomplishments and pasted them below. You are to be commended. It’s not many small rural towns like Dunseith that can say they have had an alumnus that served on a United States Presidents personal staff and for three years too.

            1968 DHS Prom: Toni Morinville and Randy Kelly.
Kelly

Kelly, Randy 2309-1

Post-mayoral activities

In late 2006, Kelly was named Deputy Associate Administrator for Intergovernmental Relations for the Environmental Protection Agency by President Bush. At the EPA, his duties included managing relations with governors, state legislators, mayors, county executives and other state and local officials, as well as working with the national associations representing these officials. In the position, he also served as the liaison to the White House Office of Intergovernmental Affairs.[2] He remained in this position until early 2009.

Betty Hackman Schmidt (’68) had a Heart attack
Message from Larry Hackman (’66): Bismarck, ND

Betty (Hackman ) Schmidt, my sister of the Dunseith High School Class of 1968 had a heart attack (the widow Maker) last Thursday 10/29/15.

She is in the intensive care unit of the Phoenix AZ. Hospital.

All prayers are needed and are appreciated.

Larry
Hackman, Betty 2309

 

Yesterday’s veterans
Posting from Dale Pritchard (’63):  Leesville, LA

Real Life Heroes:  Many people today don’t have any idea who these men are / were and that’s a pity.  The movie stars of “our” day were real life heroes.  The list is lengthy so I’ll send it in three parts to keep it short each time.  One-third of the list as follows:

PART 1

GEORGE GOBEL:  Comedian, Army Air Corps, taught fighter pilots

JAMES STEWART:  US Army Air Corps; Bomber pilot who rose to the rank of General

ERNEST BORGNINE:  US Navy Gunners Mate; destroyer USS Lamberton; 10 years active duty; discharged 1941; re-enlisted after Pearl Harbor

ED McMAHON:  US Marines fighter pilot (flew OE-1 Bird Dogs over Korea as well)

TELLY SAVALAS:  US Army

WALTER MATTHAU:  US Army Air Corps; B-24 Radioman/Gunner and cryptographer

STEVE FORREST:  US Army; wounded at Battle of the Bulge

JONATHAN WINTERS:  USMC; Battleship USS Wisconsin and Carrier USS Bon Homme Richard (Anti-aircraft gunner, Battle of Okinawa)

PAUL NEWMAN:  US Navy Rear seat gunner/radioman, torpedoed bombers off USS Bunker Hill

KIRK DOUGLAS:  US Navy Sub-chaser in the Pacific; Wounded in action and medically discharged

ROBERT MITCHUM:  US Army

DALE ROBERTSON:  US Army Tank Commander in North Africa under Patton; Wounded twice; received battlefield commission

HENRY FONDA:  US Navy Destroyer USS Satterlee

LEE MARVIN:  US Marines Sniper; Wounded in action on Saipan, Buried in Arlington National Cemetery Sec 7A next to Greg Boyington and Joe Louis

ROD STEIGER:  US Navy; was aboard one of the ships that launched the Doolittle Raid

TONY CURTIS:  US Navy Sub tender USS Proteus;  In Tokyo Bay for the surrender of Japan

LARRY STORCH:  US Navy Sub tender USS Proteus with Tony Curtis

FORREST TUCKER:  US Army; Enlisted as a private, rose to the rank of Lieutenant

ROBERT MONTGOMERY:  US Navy

GEORGE KENNEDY:  US Army; Enlisted after Pearl Harbor, stayed in sixteen years

MICKEY ROONEY:  US Army under Patton; received Bronze Star

DENVER PYLE:  US Navy; wounded in the Battle of Guadalcanal; medically discharged

More to come:

Dale Pritchard

 

Posted by Neola Kofoid Garbe:  Bottineau & Minot, ND
Dunseith news

 

====================================
Blog (378) posted on February 23 , 2009

02/23/2009

Olivine O. Allard’s Funeral notice:
OLIVINE O. ALLARD, 90, Bottineau, died Friday in a Bottineau nursing home. Funeral Wednesday, 10 a.m., St. Mark’s Catholic Church, Bottineau. Visitation Tuesday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Nero Funeral Home, Bottineau
To the family members of Olivine Allard. My condolences are with you with the loss of your mother, grandmother & aunt, Olivine. Larry, I remember you from our high school days before you guys were redistricted to Bottineau. Mary, I don’t really remember you, but I know your Husband, Laurel Hiatt, well. Carol, you being a class of 65 gal, I/we have gotten reconnected well the past several years. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Gary
Standing: Lillian Allard, Alice Kuhn & Evelyn Senechal
Sittiing: Adeline Allard & Olivine Allard
Reply from Tom Hagen (51):
Hi, Gary, just a quick reply to you about Wetheralt School. I had the
3 summer months when we were first married and it was really hot and
rainy that summer (55) When it got too hot we would have school in the
shade beside the school. We swept the room every day (mostly the kids
did it ) and used compound (reddish material to hold down the dust)
which had fallen off the kids legs who had walked to school in the muddy
roads. Isn’t that right???? Tom Anderson kids, Bud Anderson kids,
Obert Medlang, Susie Knox, Strong kids, Larry Metcalfe, Larry Hall, Eva
Eurich, (Hope I didn’t leave anybody out) That summer I took a bunch
of the kids to see Gone With the Wind , now can’t remember who !!!We love E-mail letters, Love Tom and Dot

Reply/Pictures from Dick Johnson (68):
Gary and Friends,Rod Hiatt’s picture of a pine marten is neat! The sightings of the
little animals have been increasing over the last couple of years. I saw
one about 3-4 years ago and had no idea what crossed the road in front
of me. Some college researchers set up cameras in the hills around here
and were able to photograph several in the wild. They baited an area in
front of motion detector operated cameras and got some nice pictures.
Last summer I saw one get hit by a car on Highway 3 by Rose Lake, north
of Dunseith. It wasn’t physically damaged and I picked it up and froze
it and sent it back to the Game and Fish Department in Bismarck, with my
son-in-law who works there. They didn’t have any specimens, alive or
dead, to necropsy (autopsy) and study so were very interested in getting
one. They are bigger than a large squirrel but smaller than a small
racoon. They kind of resemble a fox with their ears and face. I’ll
attach some pictures from the motion cameras and one of the one I found.
Thanks Gary!

Dick

11/4/2015 (2308)

   Happy Birthday Vickie Bergan Dietz (’82):  Princeton, MN.
Bergan, Vickie 2308

 

 

  Happy Birthday Shannon Azure (‘2001): Grand Forks, ND
Azure, Shannon 2308

 

Happy Birthday Sandra Monson Gottbreth: Dunseith, ND.
Gottbreht, Sandra 2308

 


Trying to locate Roger Johnson
Inquiry from Chris Wogaman: 

Hi Gary,

I’m doing some family history research for a friend of mine on Facebook whose Great-Grandfather (Jack Beasley) served with Roger Johnson of Dunseith in WW2 on the LSM-297. I don’t know if Roger might still be living, but thought I would ask if you might know. It might be a challenge to track down anyone living who was on that ship who would possibly remember this fellow.

All the best,

Chris Wogaman
Minneapolis, MN

 

Reply from Lynette Honsey:

Hi Gary,

Thanks for the “Blog”.

Very nice.

So, because of your blog I called my Auntie Netty last evening.   (Netty Peterson)

Yep, Leola is her sister.

I’m following your lead very well.    This is fun!

By the way, the answer is:

Bulacan, Philippines.

Are you near there?

I have somehow come up with two email addresses for you Gary.  Any preference ?

Below is one of the first shots I took while in North Dakota in August, 2015.

Photography is one of the things I love to do.

Lynette,

You have lots of cousins on this distribution too.

I have 7 email addresses and they are all good. I use Outlook to manage my email, All of the messages from all of my email addresses are all combined and displayed together in Outlook.  

Gary

 

Reply to Boar pig picture posted by Raphael Poitra
From Don Martel (Former DHS Vice Principal): Rosemount, MN

Seems to me that someone recently shot a feral pig in the Turtle Mountains, so I thought this information could be helpful in case others are spotted.

North Dakota Game and Fish Department

Nov. 2, 2015

 

Feral Pig Sightings Must be Reported

Landowners or hunters who happen to encounter feral pigs in North Dakota must notify the State Board of Animal Health immediately. Shooting of feral pigs is illegal in North Dakota unless a person is protecting property or livestock.

Casey Anderson, assistant chief of wildlife for the State Game and Fish Department, said state law requires reporting of feral pigs to help the BOAH eliminate these nuisance animals.

“We have had numerous situations since 2008 where feral swine have been detected in North Dakota and we take these reports very seriously,” Anderson said. “With the upcoming deer hunting season approaching, we want to let people know they need to report immediately if they see feral pigs or observe signs such as rooting.”

Anyone who observes or suspects the presence of feral pigs should call the BOAH at 701-328-2655, Game and Fish Department at 701-328-6300, or USDA Wildlife Services at 701-250-4405.

Feral pigs can threaten domestic livestock, crops, public safety, natural habitat and wildlife. Anderson said they often become nocturnal if pressured which makes removal efforts more difficult. “They are very hardy and resilient,” he added, “that’s why immediate action is essential.”

A landowner may eliminate wild pigs on his or her land if they pose an immediate threat, but must contact the BOAH within 24 hours. The landowner must follow any instructions given by the board regarding the handling, preservation and disposal of the carcass.

 

George and Eve Crawford Hiatt siblings
Reply from Dale Pritchard (’63):  Leesville, LA

Gary

Additional info for you.  Faye Hiatt was married to Melvin Tohm from Gardena, south of Bottineau.  They lived and farmed at Egeland, about 40 miles east of Rolette.  Faye passed away from cancer a few years ago.  Melvin and one of his sons still live on the farm.  Melvin’s brother, LeRoy, was married to my sister, Lorraine.  LeRoy passed away from cancer last Winter in Hereford, TX and was returned to Bottineau for burial.

Dale Pritchard

 

====================================
Blog (377) posted on February 22 , 2009

Post navigation

02/22/2009

Posted on February 22, 200

Olivine Allard Passed away.

 

I recieved a message from Mel Kuhn that Olivine Allard passed away Friday evening at 8:00 PM. She is Carol, Larry & Mary Allard’s mother. She was also a sister to Mel’s mother. We will post more info later. Gary

 

Reply from Rita Carbonneau Anderson (Former Gamble store owner):

I am one of those who started school in about 1930. I went to a country school in Lordsbrg Township, there were 11 of us in the whole school. I lived just about 3/4 of a mile from school. We started school about the first of April and went to the first week of November. If the weather wasn’t too severe we would go to Thanksgiving. In the summertime when it was too warm to have school inside, we would go to the north side of the building and thats where the teacher would teach the classes. How about that!?

 

Email address change for Beth Fauske Duncan (67):

Dear Friends and Family,

I have come into the technology age and am now on high speed internet so have changed email addresses.

Please email me at :

Feel free to forward onto other family members whose address is not included above.

 

Thank you!

Al and Beth Duncan

 

11/2/2015 (2307)

    Happy Birthday Dave Wurgler (’64): Rugby, ND
Wurgler
 

 

Lagerquist Family

Folks,

These are some very nice photos of the Lagerquist family. Bruce, Kim and Carl came along after I left the country, so I didn’t know them. I knew the others well though. Very well in fact.  They were our neighbors to the east.

Leola was a Hiatt, Daughter of George and Eva Crawford Hiatt. I think George died in about 1949, but most everyone in my generation and older knew Eva.  Albert Hiatt was Leola’s brother.  Netty (Jack) Peterson is Leola’s sister.  I remember two other sisters too, Ena Birkland and Faye. I also remember their brother Ike. I believe Ike lives in Rolla? This what I remember off the top of my head as I remember.

Gary

Lagerquist family photos
Lagerquist family 2307-1 Lagerquist family 2307-2

Message from Lynette Honsey

I know a whole lot of you know and are related to the Honsey and Peterson families and Lynette too.

Lynette, we’d love to hear more from you, where you are living, etc.

PS – Lynette, there is no charge for the Blog.
Gary Stokes,

Do you still do the blog for Dunseith, ND ?

Bottineau ?

Willow City ?

Rugby?

I was born and somewhat raised in Rolette, ND and the above cities.

Lois Peterson was my MOM.

Mary and Max Peterson were my grandparents.

Leonard Honsey was my DAD.

Shirley Lagerquist was my Aunt.

Vida Hiatt was my Aunt.

Duane Peterson was my Uncle.

I was recently in North Dakota to bury my dad.

North Dakota is still so very beautiful.

It had been many years since I was there.

What do you charge to be put on your list?

Do you know of any other “blogs” in upper North Dakota area?

Do you have access to past history in ND?

Please advise.  And Thank You.

Lynette  Honsey

LHONSEY@MSN.COM

 

Reply to Raphael Poitra’s Wild Boar picture
From Vickie Metcalfe (’70):Bottineau, ND

Thanks Mike and Raphael,

Are you guys planning a pig feed?

That is  the ugliest critter to come out of the hills.

I wouldn’t have liked to run across when walking.

It reminded me of the wild boars in Old Yellar Book read to us by Mrs.

Conroy..

Thanks for the posting. “Thar are wild boars in them hills……….”

Vickie

 

Bernice Belgarde (’72): Bemidji, MN  shared Tweed Museum of Art‘s photo
https://www.facebook.com/Tweed.Museum.of.Art/?fref=photo

Great Lakes Woodland Skirts Fashion Show
Belgarde

Joke of the day
Posted by Rosemary Smith (Wayne ’61): Bottineau, ND

Skinny Dipping & Old Men

An elderly man in Louisiana had owned a large farm for several years. He had a large pond in the back. It was properly shaped for swimming, so he fixed it up nice — picnic tables, horseshoe courts, and some apple and peach  trees.

One evening the old farmer decided to go down to the pond, as he hadn’t been there for a while, and look it over. He grabbed a five gallon bucket to bring back some fruit. As he neared the pond, he heard voices shouting and laughing with glee. As he came closer he saw it was a bunch of young women skinny-dipping in his pond.

He made the women aware of his presence and they all went to the deep end. One of the women shouted to him, “We’re not coming out until you leave!”

The old man frowned, “I didn’t come down here to watch you ladies swim naked or make you get out of the pond naked. ” Holding the bucket up he said,  “I’m here to feed the alligator.”

Some old men can still think fast.

 

====================================
Blog (376) posted on February 21 , 2009

02/21/2009

Day correction for Mid Fulsebakke’s birthday celebration posted by Mark Schimetz (70):

The Date is wrong on Midge’s 90th birthday, the 22nd is a Sunday. Sunday is the day of her Celebration, I just called Good Sams. Saturday is the 21st not the 22nd of Feb. If some want to call the home, the number is 228-3796 .
Thank you Mark for catching this error and for calling Good Sam to get the correct day. Gary
Donald Sharratt’s funeral notice/Obituary posted by Sharron Gottbreht Shen (59):
Dear Family & Friends,
Because some of you have asked, here’s the link to Don’s obituary & online guest book, published in today’s Tucson paper.
The text of the obit is also pasted below.
Here’s the link to the Adair Funeral Home/Avalon Chapel for more info, directions etc. http://www.adairfuneralhomes.com/Avalon_Chapel_57647.html
A reminder that the Service is on Sun 3/8, not 3/1, at 1pm. If you plan to attend the Memorial Service, I’d like you to know that there will be a time at the Service for friends to get up and share their memories about Don, lessons learned from him, fun things about their friendship with Don, etc. Just something to think about.
I also want to take this opportunity to thank you for all your prayers, good thoughts, and varied expressions of love, sympathy, compassion, and prayerful support. They mean the world to me, as do you ALL.
Love, Bonnie
OBIT TEXT:
Donald Sharratt
SHARRATT, Donald, 76, of Tucson, AZ, passed on February 1, 2009. Survived by his wife, Bonny; siblings, Darvin Sharratt and Sandra Gilje; sons, Eric (Donna) and Keith; four grandchildren, one great-granddaughter, 13 nieces/ nephews, scores of cousins. Proudly served in USAF for ten years as aircraft mechanic, supply sergeant, military police; flew in 16 combat missions. Lifetime member of the VFW. In private sector employed by the railroad and the mines. Self-employed in heating and cooling repair. Master mechanic in all forms of transportation. Famous for his story-telling, jokes and keen memory; loved for the sunshine and joie de vivre he brought to all he met, family, friends and strangers alike. Memorial donations may be made to any charity that benefits veterans, eg ;
Memorial Service Sunday, March 8, 2009 at 1:00 p.m. ADAIR FUNERAL HOMES, Avalon Chapel, 8090 N. Northern Ave., Tucson, AZ 85704.
Question from Bonnie Awalt Houle (56):
Gary a question to all of the Country School Kids: Didn’t some of the schools have what was called summer school, where they went to school from March through the summer until Thanksgiving. This being done to avoid having students trudging to school during those harsh winter months? Being one of the town kids I only remember hearing about it, In town we always went from September to June.
Bonnie Awalt Houle
Bonnie, I can answer this because I’m one of those who attended summer school. I’m hoping some of the many country school folks we have on our distribution list will answer your question as well.
The last year of summer school at Ackworth was in 1953. I was a first grader. Charlotte Lang was our teacher. I remember that school year well. As I remember the summer school year was only 8 months, March through November. And yes, I believe they had summer school to avoid students having to attend school in the winter months. I’ll bet Tom Hagen and a few others can tell us a whole lot about those summer schools. I know we have a lot of Ackworth, Willow Lake, Lockhart, Wetherelt and I think other country school summer school folks among us too. Gary
From Vickie Metcalfe (70):
Gary,
For whom it may concern:
Regarding the Randa’s; Beverly (Randa) Boucher lives here
in Bottineau. She works mornings until noon at Bottineau St.
Andrews Hospital Long Term as a CNA. To my mother Lottie Metcalfe,
Bev was a positive, hardworking, efficient, smiling care giver with
an amazingly contagious laugh. Bev is originally from Saint John ND.
She told me she grew up in a large family in the Saint John and her
siblings are scattered throughout the USA.
Regarding Templeman’s;. My mother, Lottie had a recipe for
Mrs. Templemans Cake, that she got from Annie Anthony years ago. My
sister Cyndy (Metcalfe) Miller, ” our family pastry chef” is the
keeper of mom’s recipes.
Regarding “Rabbit City Lake” ; located on the North Side of
Hill Side Township. As the crow flies, located 3 miles from the
Cliff and Lottie Metcalfe home farm in Holmes township. The Rabbit
City Lake area -community was surrounded by families including
Metcalfe’s, Evans, Anthonys, Bergans, Poitra’ also neighboring
families of Belgardes, the Cota’s, the Morins, Scotch Annie, and
Lajimodieres. The depression era was tough on many farmers and in
the late 30’s many ended up selling their farms to the federal
government and became non-reservation Federal Land. Grandpa Bill
Metcalfe died in July,1935, my dad just turned 12 years old. Grandma
Rose moved into Dunseith with her younger children. My fathers legal
guardian was Louis Bergan.
As a child, dad often drove me to Rabbit City many times in
the old black ’52 chevy truck and told stores of his childhood on
the lake. His stories were filled with Ward Anthony, Clayton Bergan,
Neighbors, HillSide School, and his dear family. As a kid, we went
in from the south. However,when Uncle Jim Metcalfe purchased land
in the area close by the old Metcalfe farm site, a better traveled
dirt road came in on the north side of Rabbit City Lake. One winter,
in the early ’70’s, the fish were biting in Rabbit City Lake as well.
And lots of area folks, including my dad and my brothers caught their
limits…every day. Mom did lots of pickleing fish….
“Indian Creek” runs south of Rabbit City Lake. Adjacent
is “N____r Lake” , located on the west side of Rabbit City Lake.
Moving from Maza ND, Grandpa Bill Metcalfe bought the Metcalfe farm
from a “Black squatter”, hense the name “N____Lake”. On a late sunny
afternoon, Sunday June 31, after the the Metcalfe 1980 Reunion.
Shan drove “Old Yellar” dad’s old gold Chevy to the William and Rose
Metcalfe building site. In the front of the pickup with Shan were my
dad ( who was blind), his sisters well into their 80’s, Bessie
(Metcalfe) Jeans, and Bertha (Metcalfe)Deal . Riding in the box ,
with me were Uncle Lucky Metcalfe, Auntie Leona (Metcalfe)Oswell,
cousins Dianne (Maki) Reed and Barbara Straub, along with others.
It was an emotionally- remembrance uplifting story telling
experience for the older generation. On the way home, Uncle Lucky
told me stories that his father had told him as we bumped along the
dirt trail.
During the 80’s and 90’s I often rode horseback with nieces
and nephews to that site and as we’d eat the picnic lunch packed in
the saddle bag I told them stories of their Grandpa Cliff. I wanted
them to have the sense of identity, with Scots, English, French &
Indian. In the early 1990’s, our family was blessed again when we
learned of the existence of another cousin, Mick ( son of Archie).
Mick came to meet his Metcalfe family and his father’s
friend,Carroll Carlson. We decided to take Mick and his wife Betty
to Rabbit City Lake where my Uncle Archie ( Mick’s dad) had also
grown up. Those years the creek had come up quite high and we
couldn’t get to the building site. Shanon borrowed a boat from Dick
Johnson. and we four wheeled down to the Metcalfe homeplace. Shan
hopped out and started to pull the boat out. Immediately, Mick
jumped out and started to help him. Well the boat had a hole in it.
Shan’s eyes and mine met when, slick as a whistle, Mick pulled out
his jack knife cut a willow plug and plugged that hole. Shan and I
nodded our silent nods, in agreement…. this blue eyed solid guy
with a Metcalfe neck, also truly had a Metcalfe personality, down to
earth, and common farm sense. Another day of fond remembrance as
Mick, Shan and Betty paddled the boat over to the house site while I
, “Chicken Little”, that I am cause I can’t swim….longingly
wished I was on that other side with them.
Blessed be stories that tie us all together. Thanks. Vickie Metcalfe
Reply from Dick Johnson (68):

Gary and Friends,

To Dave Slyter—Grandpa Henry Olson died a little over two years after
the picture was taken. He was just 56 at the time in 1959 and died of
what I believe was pneumonia. Your Dad probably came into the
partnership with Glen Johnson after that. As for the Saturday bowling
leagues for kids, I sure do remember that. Do you remember that Dad (Don
Johnson) was the instructor? He got certified by the ABC (American
Bowling Congress) and taught lots of kids to bowl. Somewhere here I
still have a small belt buckle he had that has the logo for ABC. I think
he got it for his efforts in teaching the sport. Can any of our readers
remember when a bunch of Dunseith folks were in Minot to bowl on TV? The
show was live and was called ‘Bowling For Dollars’. I spent many
Saturday and Sunday afternoons all over the state watching Dad and his
buddies bowl in tournaments. They did real well and got several trophies
and cash prizes. Back to the kids league–I saw Terry Martinson bowl a
203 one Saturday when he was in about the 7th grade. The rest of us were
trying hard to hit a hundred, so were dumb founded! Thanks Gary!

Dick

Message/Picture from Rod Hiatt (69):
Gary
Brian Fauske had this Pine Martin at his house on Long Lake. All the
years living in this part of the country and I had never heard of such
an animal let alone seen one. Thought it might be interesting if anyone
else had seen or heard much about them in the Turtle Mountains. I’m
sure that back some years ago, if my Dad had seen it we could take
pictures of it hanging on the wall.

 

10/30/2015 (2306)

Correction
Duane Link pasted away – Son of Phyllis McKay (’65) and the late Joe Link (’63)  

Correction: Joe Link was Duane’s dad, not Ron as I previously posted. I knew that very well too, so it was a real dumb mistake on my part. Thanks Phyllis for being so understanding.   Gary

 

Turtle Mountain Wild Boar
Posting from Raphael Poitra (’65):  Dunseith, ND

Gary, This is a wild boar that Mike Peterson shot across the highway from Kelvin Klinic . The boar was in Mike’s pasture. The picture with Mike is my hand holding the pig’s mouth to show the tusks.

Thanks Gary!                                                                                                       Raphael Poitra
Poitra-1

 

Face Book Posting from Larry Hackman’s Daughter,  Angie Hackman Leintz
Larry Hackman (’66) and Marion Schneider Hackman

Hackman, Larry 2306

Postings From Neola Kofoid Garbe: Bottineau & Minot, ND
Neola-1 Neola-2 Neola-3

 

Richard Gunville Obituary
Posting from Vickie Metcalfe (’70):  Bottineau, ND

Gary and friends,

I  extend sympathy to Rick’s family and friends.

The John and Helen Gunville family  were neighbors of the hills.

I recall Rick when he was also employed at Dunseith School.

He was  known as a hard worker. dependable and  well liked.

Sincerely, Vickie Metcalfe

Obituaries

 

Richard James Gunville
(September 5, 1955 – October 25, 2015)

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Richard Gunville, age 60, of Grand Forks, ND, formerly of Dunseith, ND passed away on Sunday, October 25, 2015 at Altru Hospital, Grand Forks, ND.

Richard James Gunville was born on September 5, 1955 to John and Helen (DuBois) Gunville in Belcourt, ND. He was raised and educated in Dunseith and graduated from Dunseith High School in 1974. After graduating, he worked construction, worked as a basketball coach for two years, drove bus for the school, and worked at Dunseith Elementary School as a maintenance worker and custodian. In 2003, Richard moved from Dunseith to Grand Forks to be with his family and started working at the Ramada. He stayed there for about a year and went on the work construction at the UND paint shop for five years. UND offered him a position with them as a maintenance worker, which he accepted and remained employed.

Richard married Elaine Gunville on October 22, 1976 and became the proud father of four children, Ryan, Cody, Skyler, and Ricanda. He was the very proud “papa” of his three grandchildren, Analeigh Gunville, Sky Chaske, and Baby Gunville.

Richard’s favorite pastime was a loving family man. He loved spending time with his wife, children, and grandchildren. He loved to work on cars and going to car shows. He enjoyed spending time outdoors and spending time with his dog, Bailey. He loved to watch sports especially football, as he was an avid Minnesota Vikings fan. His family was the most important thing to him and loved to have family close together. He was blessed with a great work ethic and worked hard all of his life to raise his family and he was very independent and strong. Richard has touched the lives of many and will be remembered fondly by all who knew him in any way.

Richard is survived by his wife, Elaine Gunville of Grand Forks; four children, Ryan (Hiedi) Gunville of Grand Forks, Cody (Carrie) Gunville of Grand Forks, Skyler (Amber) Gunville of Grand Forks, and Ricanda (Reginald) Chaske of Grand Forks; grandchildren, Analeigh Gunville and one on way due in March; brothers, Robert Gunville, Mark (Val) Gunville, and Jerry (Ann) Gunville; sisters, Sharon (Virgil) Poitra and Debbie (Darrell) Champagne; several nieces, nephews, great nephews and nieces, and great great nephews and nieces.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his grandchild, Sky Chaske, brothers, Timothy and James Gunville, sister, Florence Dodgion, nephews, Bob Dodgion, Dustin Champagne, and William Gunville, and nieces, Sherry Poitra, and Sherry and Mary Gunville.

Casket Bearers are Ryan, Cody, and Skyler Gunville, Devon Champagne, Darrell Champagne, Reginald Chaske, Aaron Gunville, and David Gunville. Honorary Bearers are all Richard’s family and friends. Music by Pat and Linda Peltier and family.

A visitation will begin at 6:30 PM on Wednesday, October 28, 2015 at St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church, Dunseith, ND with a Rosary Service at 7:00 PM. Funeral Mass will be Thursday, October 29, 2015 at 10 AM in the church with Fr. Dennis Mary Dugan presiding. Burial will follow at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery, Dunseith, ND.

Elick Funeral Home, Rolla, ND.

Posting from Vickie Metcalfe (’70):  Bottineau, ND

Gary and Friends,
While  a student at Dunseith School, I was an avid reader.

I checked  out  and brought home  many books on  American history which I shared with my dad to read.

We discussed  books at the supper table; Dad  favored Bat Masterson while I  favored, Wyatt Earp.

As an adult, one for my bucket was filled when I visited Chief Joseph and  Big Horn Battle fields in Montana with my nephews and nieces.

Recently, I found it interesting  Billings,  Montana school patrons honored  another hero, Doctor Medicine Crow by naming a school after him.

Now I know how  someone becomes a war chief.

Later, Vickie

http://www.krtv.com/story/30372763/dr-joe-medicine-crow-the-last-living-plains-indian-war-chief-celebrates-102nd-birthday

“It was on the European battlefields Medicine Crow completed all of the four tasks needed to become a Crow War Chief. As a scout he led several successful war parties deep behind enemy lines; he stole German horses; he disarmed an enemy; and he touched an enemy (counted coup) without killing him.”

 

 

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Blog (375) posted on February 20 , 2009

Posted on February 20, 2009

Happy Birthday greetings to Mildred Fulsebakke from Erling Landsverk (44):

HI GARY:

WHEN I LEARNED THAT MILDRED FULSEBAKKE WAS CELEBRATING HER 90TH BIRTHDAY WITH HER FAMILY, I WANTED TO ADD MY GREETING ALONG WITH A BIG HAPPY BIRTHDAY WISH. YOU SEE, HER HUSBAND JAMES ALONG WITH THREE OF HIS SIBLINGS AND ALL OF OUR FAMILY ATTENDED THE SAME ONE ROOM SCHOOL. IT WAS THE LOON LAKE SCHOOL #2, ABOUT A HALF MILE WEST OF THE FULSEBAKKE HOME

DURING THE WINTER MONTHS, WE OFTEN STOPPED AT THEIR HOUSE TO WARM UP BEFORE GOING ON TO SCHOOL, BECCAUSE THE TEMPERATURE AS YOU KNOW USUALLY HOVERED AT OR BELOW ZERO, AND FOR LITTLE KIDS WE GOT PRETTY COLD AFTER TRUDGING A MILE THROUGH THE DEEP SNOW. THE LAST AND ONLY TIME THAT I SAW MILDRED WAS AT THEIR HOME IN 1970 I BELIEVE, MY WIFE AND I AND THREE OF MY SIBLINGS DROVE OUT FROM WISCONSIN TO VISIT OUR OLD HOME SITE, VISIT SIGRID FULSEBAKKE AND AS MANY OF HER FAMILY AS WERE AROUND, OUR OWN NELS LANDSVERK FAMILY AND OTHER FRIENDS, AND WHEN WE LEARNED THAT JAMES AND MILDRED HAD A FARM NEAR THE PEACE GARDEN, WE STOPPED TO GREET THEM, AND OF COURSE MILDRED INVITED US IN WITH A BIG SMILE AND HER AND JAMES AND ALL OF US TALKED ABOUT OLD TIMES. IT WAS A GREAT VISIT. UNFORTUNATELY WE NEVER DID SEE THEM AGAIN, NOR DID WE HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO MEET THEIR CHILDREN. TO ALL OF THEM I MUST SAY, YOU HAVE A WONDERFUL MOTHER AND YOUR FATHER WAS ONE IN A MILLION. WE ALL HAVE LASTING FOND MEMORIES OF THE FULSEBAKKE FAMILY.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MILDRED!
JO ANN AND ERLING LANDSVERK

Reply from Geri Metcalfe Munro (59):

To Gary Stokes:

In blog #375, I meant to send my email to Gary Fulsebakke, and I did; somehow, I must have clicked on Gary Stokes, as well.
I was wishing Gary Fulsebakke’s mom, Mid (Mildred) a HAPPY BIRTHDAY 90th birthday this weekend. Gary F. and I have shared some stories back and forth this week.

Geri Metcalfe Munro

James & Mildred Fulsebakke Family:
Back: Gary Mid & Jim
From Jim Jr. Joel & Shelly

For general info – The Forestry is now MSU-Bottineau
Brittney Fulsebakke is Mid’s Granddaughter. Her parents are Jim Jr. (75) and Marlee Rae (Reing). Marlee Rae’s mother, Marlene (Oliver) Reing is a sister to my sister-in-law Debby (Darrel) Stokes.

Reply from David Slyter (70):

My thoughts and prayers are with Marilyn, Richard and their children. I use to work with Richard at the school when we were both custodians there. What a great family. I pray you have a speedy recovery Marilyn. Great things can be cured through the help of prayer.

To Dick:
Thank You for the great picture of your grandpa, Glenn and Dad. I am thinking that your Grandpa must have sold his share to my Dad as there was a few years when Dad and Glenn owned the bar. I don’t know if a lot of you remember the kids leagues they use to have on Saturdays when Glenn and Dad owned the bowling alley. It was great. I think they had like three or four teams of kids bowling on Saturday mornings. Again thanks Dick and Gary. Good memories

10/27/2015 (2305)

Happy Birthday Odell Millang: Oak Harbor, WA
Millang Odell 2305

 

     Happy Birthday Sharon Took Parkhouse (’67): Osseo, MN
Took Parkhouse, Sharon 2305

 


Visitors from Seattle

Our Daughter Sheryl, Granddaughter Nevaeh and their friend Carrie arrived here in Cebu at Midnight last night from Seattle. They will be here until November 13th.  They are getting reacquainted with all their relative. They bond well.

Gary

Bernadette, Nevaeh (Granddaughter), Sheryl (Daughter) and
Carrie (Friend from Seattle)
stokes

 

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Blog (374) posted on February 19 , 2009

Reply from Bev Morinville Azure:

First I would like to tell Neola I wish you luck on the radiation it can be rough but your spirit is such a go get em spirit you will do great , the radiation team in Minot is wonderful they treat you very well and always encourage you as the treatments get tough. I will keep you in my prayers. Second Marilyn is in the hospital as far as I have heard in Minn. still, I talked with her sister Bernie just the other day and Marilyn is not well she has a lot of aneurism’s and Bernie said she is now in God’s hands Please keep her in your prayers . I had my yearly Ct scan and check up and so far no more cancer I am starting to feel great again. I thank you all again for your support and prayers in the last year I will ask you to please continue to pray for me and my family, Debbie is home and is working hard on getting her speech back it is a long road for her I call her once or twice a week and talk to her. Happy Birthday to Mrs. Fulsebakke. and Art I am so sorry your have lost your wife. I only talked with her one time but she was such a friendly woman we visited at the Bottineau Fair she was sitting behind me and I was telling someone I had graduated in 72 from Dunseith and she tapped me on my shoulder and said then you went to school with my husband Art so I got to tell her all kind of stories about you Art. May God Hold you and your family close during this time of sorrow. But know she is now healed and dancing with the angels. GOD BLESS YOU …………BEV

Reply to Marilyn Peltier Allery’s condition from Judy Allery Azure (65):
Hi Gary, Paula, and everyone
Marilyn Peltier Allery is my sister-in-law, she is married to my brother Richard. Marilyn is in St. Joseph’s Hospital in St. Paul, MN. She had brain aneurysms and is in ICU in the Brain Unit. She seems to be coming along quite well, spent the past weekend with her and my brother, along with her mother and my youngest brother Dallas. All the prayers will be greatly appreciated. Marilyn was put in a chair for 4hrs this weekend and seemed to tolerate it quite well. She is getting stronger and stronger with each passing day. Marilyn was hospitalized on January 23, 2009, under went surgery during the night to clamp the aneurysms. This was quite an ordeal for her family, Marilyn and Richard have 3 children. I will try and keep all posted on her condition. Thank You Paula for remembering Marilyn.
Judy Allery Azure
Reply from Debbie Fugere Fauske (75):
Hi Gary:
I spoke with Richard Allery by phone today. He is in Minneapolis with Marilyn. I mentioned there had been a note in the blog regarding Marilyn’s situation. I asked how she was doing and if it would be okay to update the Dunseith blog about her condition.
He said she’s no longer in a coma, her eyes are open, but she’s not really awake either. He also said she seems to recognize their voices, and turns toward them when they talk. She is unable to speak at this time.
The doctor’s have started physical therapy at this time.
He said the doctor’s say she’s come a long way but has a long way to go.
Debbie Fauske
Reply from Geri Metcalfe Munro (59):
Gary,
I just have to share with you how precious it was when your mom married Jim Fulsebakke, neighbor and single. They came to Little Prairie Lutheran Church near Kelvin, where my parents, Jim and Ella Metcalfe and all of us seven children attended. In those days, I will have you know, the men sat on one side and the women and younger children sat on the other side. Well—-
when Jim and Mid came in (she was dressed to the nines in a suit, hat and gloves (WOW, I thought–what a glamourous couple)–I must have been about what (I was born in 1941), but she sat on the men’s side with Jim. Well—-after the service a lady approached my Mom and said you’d better ask Jim (Metcalfe) about this, and tell them that they should sit on their own side.
When Mom told Dad, he said “next Sunday, you and the girls sit on the men’s side with Mid, Jim and the men. After that, all the families sat together on both sides. We felt they were such a great addition to our neighborhood, and they CERTAINLY WERE. God bless you kids and your Mom on her 90’t birthday. Geri (Geraldine Metcalfe) Munro
Reply/Picture from Dick Johnson (68):
Gary and Friends,Steve Cook’s Turtle Mountain Restaurant, I believe, was on Main Street
in Dunseith. I think it was on the east side about mid-town. For those
who have a Dunseith History Book, look on pages 371 and 372. Somehow I
thought it later became McCoy’s Bar. Don’t know for absolute, but I
think I heard that long ago. If anyone knows, please write and let us
all know. Kenny Nerpel—Thanks for the P. W. Poole story. I have the
article from the News with pictures. I’ll try to scan it and send it for
those who do, and don’t remember him. It may take me some time as right
now I can’t remember where it is! Mom sent it to me when I was in
college in Grand Forks. Knowing Pete, you would have died laughing at
the stories he was telling the reporter! The guy sucked it up like a
‘Hoover Deluxe’, word for word. All of us who frequented Kelvin know how
‘Ol Pete could spin a yarn! Everyone must have at least one ‘Pete Poole’
story. I’m attaching a picture of the Garden Tap from about 1957. Those
behind the bar are my grandfather, Henry Olson, Glen Johnson, and
Freddie Hiatt. This was when the Tap first opened. Classy joint—white
shirts and ties! Grandpa and Glen were partners when it opened. Thanks Gary!Dick
Henry Olson, Glen Johnson, and Freddie Hiatt.

Neola Kofoid Garbe’s question to Colleen Brudwick at the Good Samaritan Home:

Hi Colleen,
I need help/info, please. I understood Highway 43 performs on Sunday. I just received Gary Stokes’ Dunseith Alumni newsletter. In it, Gary Fulsebakke has a note stating there will be a 90th birthday party for his mother at Good Sam, starting at 3:00. Will both events be taking place at the same time–little overlapping 30 minutes?
Thanks.
Neola
Colleen’s reply:
The music is at 2:00 on Sunday; the party is at 3:00.

10/25/2015 (2304)

Duane Link pasted away – Son of Phyllis McKay (’65) and the late Ron Link (’63)  

Obituary for Duane Ronald Link
Link
Duane came into this world on November 27, 1964. He arrived on Friday after Thanksgiving and weighed only 4 pounds. Duane was so tiny, he came home in a Christmas stocking one month later on December 27, 1964. His parents Phyllis McKay and Joseph Duane Link were thrilled and scared to death to bring their itty bitty baby boy home to their trailer house in Minot, North Dakota.

In 1966, when Duane was almost 2 years old we moved to Seattle, Washington in hopes of a new job for Joe. Three years later Duane got a baby sister named Tyera. He loved his baby sister dearly and gave her his favorite “blankie” to snuggle at nap time. He loved to pull her around in their wagon while during walks in the neighborhood. He kissed on her whether she was sleeping or not, often waking her. He also loved to tease her unmercifully, telling her we had found her at a camp site at Ocean Shores. When they were teenagers they became best of friends and partners in crime always covering up for each other’s discretions. Tyera was his champion and Duane was her body guard.

Duane’s first dog was a little black terrier mix named Blackie that loved Duane. He said no matter how close Blackie was next to him, if he said “Blackie” the dog would crowd closer to Duane. After Blackie died, Duane saved his paper route money and bought two Scottie dogs. This began many years of raising and selling puppies. With the puppy money he bought his first motorcycle, a television, and his first car.

Duane loved muscle cars. His first car was a 1967 cherry red Chevy Chevelle. It was the vehicle that transported him and his sister Tyera on many wild adventures. Coming home one night in the fog, Duane saw a heard of horses galloping down the road straight at him. The thundering hooves proceeded over the top of his car, without any damage to the horses. Duane’s Chevelle only needed a new hood and a little pounding out of dents to the roof of his car. This story was reported in the Maplevalley newspaper “Voice of the Valley”.

While working at Micron Duane became friends with a fellow worker that was Korean. He learned how to jig for squid and how to make Korean Kimchi. At this time Duane also became interested in the Korean martial arts Taekwondo. He achieved the rank of red belt which is the rank below black belt. He was very proud of how he could break boards with one strong kick. When we were invited to his home for a gourmet meal, “another of his accomplishments” he would dress up in his dobok and put on a demonstration of demonstration of high kicks and precise movements.
Duane’s first long term job of eight years was at Safeway with his dad. When Safeway went on strike, Duane started working for a plastic extrusion plant called Micron in Kent. He became supervisor of the night crew. After working with precision machines he decided to return to college to complete his Machinist training. Duane worked in the aerospace industry as a machinist until the crash in 2008. For the past several years he worked at many different odd jobs. He decided to go to North Dakota to be closer to his sister and her family. After one winter in North Dakota, he returned to Washington State. Duane’s last job was at Skills Incorporated as an aerospace machinist. He loved his job and was looking forward to buying a new car.

Duane left us at only fifty years old on October 18th, 2015, He was preceded in death by his father Joseph Duane Link. He is survived by his sister Tyera Link Sebens (Mitch), his nephew Derek Sims, his niece Chelsea Sims, his great nephew Gaige Sims and his mother Phyllis McKay as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

 

Remembering the old reel to reels
Posting from Vickie Metcalfe (’70):  Bottineau, ND

Gary and friends,

I watched this site about how beavers once  parachuted into “The River of No return” in Idaho.

http://www.cbc.ca/news/technology/beaver-parachute-1.3285962

The second film was lost for years.

Watching the second film  reminded me of the  all those reel to reel films we watched at Dunseith School.

I know many folks  consider the beaver destructive

My opinion differs from lots of folks…including family members and neighbors..

But I  choose to stick to my opinion;

Beavers will always reign as a favored animal who continue to amaze me by their

construction methods and their familial relationships.

until Later, Vickie

 

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Blog (373) posted on February 19 , 2009

02/18/2009

Posted on February 19, 2009

Mildred Fulsebakke’s 90th B-day – posted by Gary Fulsebakke (71):

Hi Gary,
I thought some of the folks out there would like to know that we are
having a 90th birthday celebration for our mother, Mildred Fulsebakke
(Mrs. James Fulsebakke) on Sunday February 22, at the Good Samaritan
Home in Bottineau. The celebration will begin at 3 pm. with a short
program and refreshments to follow. The public is cordially invited to
attend. Thanks for the blog and keep those memories coming! Gary
Fulsebakke

Gary, I remember you mother well. She and my mother participated in a lot of the same community organizations/activities in our younger days. Your family farm was located near the west side of the Peace Garden. I remember well, in the summer of 1958, when your dad, my dad and a few others car pooled together to work at the Minot Air Force base. That was a very long commute.

I wish your mother a very happy 90th birthday. I saw her, at the Oak Manor apartments in 2007, when we were back there. She looked great! I understand she recently moved to the Good Samaritan Home. Gary

Mavis Hagen’s Obituary posted by Neola Kofoid Garbe:

Mavis Hagen, age 56, of Bottineau, went to her eternal rest with her Savior on Thursday, February 12, 2009, at a Bismarck hospital following a courageous battle with cancer. Her funeral will be held on Thursday, February 19, at 2 p.m. at the Bottineau High School Gymnasium. Visitation will be Wednesday, February 18, from 10 a.m. until 9 p.m. with a prayer service held at 7 p.m. at the Nero Funeral Home in Bottineau. Burial will be at the Oak Creek Cemetery in Bottineau. In lieu of flowers, the family requests the memorials be given to the March for Hope, 403 Bennett St., Bottineau, ND 58318.

Mavis A. Hagen, a daughter of Orthon and Deverne (Klebe) Froseth, was born on October 26, 1952, at Bottineau. She was reared there and graduated from Bottineau High School in 1970. Mavis felt “2 teach is 2 touch a life 4 ever”; therefore she earned her Bachelor of Science in Education from Mayville State in 1974. Mavis began touching lives through teaching in Medina, ND, and in the fall of 1979 she moved to Bottineau. She continued her passion of teaching 3rd graders at the Bottineau Central School. On July 8, 1978, she married Arthur Hagen in Bottineau, where they had since resided.

Mavis was a member of the Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Bottineau. She was active in the March for Hope, Relay for Life and many other educational and community activities.

Her loving family includes: her husband Arthur of Bottineau; daughter, Devonne (Jonathon) Leonard of Okinawa, Japan; son, Joshua (Keisha) Hagen of Bismarck; grandchildren, Keiandra Hagen and Jarik Leonard; mother, Deverne (Floyd) Thom of Bottineau; brother, Dorvine (Judy) Froseth of Bismarck; sister, Evette (Bruce) Bierman of Newburg; mother-in-law, MaryAnn Hagen of Bottineau; brother-in-law, Tom Larsen (Christine) of Chehalis, WA; many nieces, nephews and those she touched through teaching.

Those loved ones who she joins in heaven include her father, Orthon, sister, Charla Larsen and father-in-law, Clarence Hagen.

From Paula Fassett (71):

Hi Gary and all,

I just received an e-mail message from Dunseith and heard that Marilyn (Peltier) Allery has been hospitalized with an aneurism – or maybe several. I don’t know details, so won’t guess. Marilyn was one of my classmates – Class of ’71. She is a beautiful person – inside and out – and I pray for her recovery and hope that all of you will add Marilyn and her family to your prayers.

Paula Fassett

Peltier Marilyn PO Box 833 Dunseith, ND 58329 (701) 244-5266 marilyna@tmcwfs.net

From Kenny Nerpel (65):

Gary,

It was great hearing from Lynn Henriksen. I remember the year my
family spent in the telephone exchange at Kelvin quite well. I
think this must have been about 1960 or 1961 when I was in the
seventh or eighth grade. I also remember the kindness that her
mother “Midge” displayed to the folks in the community. I am
saddened to hear of Hal’s accident. I remember him as being such
a pleasant and well behaved child.

A highlight of the time I spent there was when I got to fill in
as the “operator” when my mother took a break.

I remember long walks in the woods behind the store, clearing off
a patch of ice on Lyde Lake for skating, and swimming trips to
School Section Lake with Rick, being ever so careful to not get
any sand or water in his car. Besides the central office there
were also a few other buildings near the store. Directly behind
the store was an empty cabin and to the North of that, down a
country lane, was a little three room building occupied by Peter
Wellington Poole.

I knew I had some information on Poole somewhere, so for the last
few days I had been searching for it with no success. I finally
resorted to asking my wife to help and within 5 minutes she had
located it. Go figure. On November 6, 1971 the Minot Daily News
published an article about the then 89 year old man.

Some of the highlights:

His small three-room home had no electricity, telephone, or
running water. He hauled water from a spring about 25 feet south
of his home. He used a kerosene lamp which he purchased from a
former occupant,Tom Kirkwold, whose wife once ran the Kelvin
telephone exchange. He spent much of his time cutting wood for
his kitchen range and wood heater in his bedroom. He didn’t like
coal because of the cost and a preference for good old Turtle
Mountain Poplar. Poole was a veteran of WWI serving with the
35th Division after being called up in 1917 with the National
Guard at Rolla. He was very vague about details of his army
career. Poole indicated that he had traveled almost around the
world with the secret service and had the job of scouting ahead
for the enemy. He said that when he returned to the United
States his service records were missing and it wasn’t until 1945
that he was able to establish a record of service in order to
qualify for compensation. His only income at the time the
article was written was the $121 a month that he received in
compensation from his military service. He was born in Ontario
and received no formal education. However, he did learn to read
and write. At that time he had no car and his main contact with
the outside world came from visits with friends at the store and
tavern at Kelvin during the day.

Kenny

From Gary Metcalfe (57):

Reply to Mel Kuhn

To answer your question Mel, if you stepped off of your Uncle Jimmy Birkland’s porch and walked 1 1/2 miles south, then 1/8 mile east, you would be at Rabbit City Lake. I think I have covered some of the shinaningans that happened there in the 20’s and 30’s in earlier blogs. The end of the 30’s was the end of Hillside Twp. as local people knew it. As the government bought most all the township, on behalf of the Native American people.

I think it would be safe to say that Fish Lake, that Crystal was referring too was 1 mile east of Johnny Belgarde’s on the same side of the road in Holmes Twp. John lived on the old Hosmer place. And you are right, Belcourt Lake was better known as Fish Lake.

What I remember about George Gottbrecht Manufacturing was a brand new style of pump jack. All farmers needed a pump jack to pump water for the cattle. Ours like most was dangerous, if you did not lose your tongue on the pump handle you may lose your fingers in the big exposed gears on the pump jack. George’s pump jack was enclosed and the only one I ever saw was LeRoy Strong’s. Then the electric came and we went to electric motors.

Gary Metcalfe

Reply from Tom Hagen (51):

Hi, Gary, just a quick reply to Linda Gardner from Bottineau, I am her
mom, Lillian Wenstad Gardner’s first cousin, as her Grandma and my dad
were brother and sister. We may have met when she was little but she
would remember Orvin.

We love E-mail letters, Love Tom and Dot

From Neola Kofoid Garbe:

Hi Everyone,

I visited with my surgeon, Dr. Lane Lee, today about the lump in my breast. He, too, thinks it’s from “over-lifting” and isn’t concerned about it. If he isn’t concerned, neither am I. Apparently, it will go away on its own.

I have an appointment with Dr. Freiberg (oncologist) on Wednesday. I’m assuming a radiation treatment schedule will be set up at that time. I’m guessing they won’t start immediately, as “their” schedule is most likely full for awhile. This means I’ll be attending the special entertainment (Highway 43) at Good Samaritan on February 22.

Unless Dr. Freiberg has other ideas, I plan to return to Bottineau on Friday. Mom has an appointment with Dr. Lee on Monday (Feb. 23), so I’ll be her chauffer that day. Jim usually takes Mom to her appointments, but he has a really busy February schedule (driving the “Forestry” sports teams to their events). Unless treatments start soon, I’ll stay in Bottineau for awhile.

So, all is well in my world; I hope it is in your world, too.

 Neola

Message/Picture from Susan Fassett Martin (65):

This photo is dated 1906 and says,”left to right–Steve Cooke, ? <
Hilda Wridberg, standing by plant, Paul LaFazer. Interior of Steve
Cooke’s “Turtle Mt Restaurant” Dunseith ND.” Steve Cook was Midge
Hendricksens father I believe hence, Lynn, Rick and Dana’s
grandfather. Enjoy!!! Susan

Turtle Mt Restaurant (Kelvin) 1906
L to R: Steve Cooke, ?, Hilda Wridberg, Paul LaFazer

10/24/2015 (2303)

Lefse Recipe and Story
Posted by Vickie Metcalfe (’70): Bottineau, ND

Gary and friends,

http://www.startribune.com/how-to-make-lefse-straight-from-lutheran-church-ladies/285253271/

I enjoyed this Lefse recipe story from Minneapolis tribune.

My branch of the  family could not boast being Norwegian.

Too many other Duke’s mixture nationalities are represented in our specific  tree branch.

However, we  do claim  Norwegian.

Hpw? My third grandma was Grandma Ingrid Seim.

Grandma Seim was our ‘Grandma of the heart.

She told Dad for his kids to call her Grandma.

And we did because dad loved her.

My  Dad was taken under Grandma Seim’s capable wing as a young teen.

Hens, I grew up eating lefse.

And later  I cooked and ate Lutefisk with my  Dad !

I also  remember  when Aunt Ella(Evans) Metcalfe  baked Lefse on top of her wood stove.

Who needed  a lefse grill in the days of old when you had a wood cook stove.

In recent years, my younger  sister  peels potatoes, cooks, rices and

mixes up  a batch of dough

the night  before November Veteran’s Day.

She always uses  Red River valley red potatoes.

The morn  of Veterans Day, I pack up the dogs drive N. into the hills and give her 1 hand.

She rolls,

I turn.

I always choose make an intentional  mess out of three rounds.

Oops!  oh no.   Oops!  not again…OOP s another one!

Lickety splint!

I being the family peasant, I devour  the warm lefse with butter and….dark, dark,  brown sugar.

Civilized members in the  family prefer white sugar)

After  our  marathon rolling and baking lefse; my sister pulls out  white dough mixed in the bread dough machine.

We fry ‘Dough gods’  in a black iron skillet. served up with homemade chokecherry jelly.

What a Veteran’s Day we’ve had!

I usually do not eat lefse again for another year…….

This year at the  Boissevain,  Manitoba  Labor Day  flea market .

I looked and looked and finally found  an antique sugar shaker to use for lefse at my sisters  Thanksgiving table.

but……don’t tell her it is a surprise.

Later. Vickie

 

====================================
Blog (372) posted on February 16 , 2009

 

02/16/2009

Posted on February 16, 2009

Happy Birthday Aime Casavant (66):

Aime, A little bird from the sky told me your are celebrating your Birthday today, February 16th. I’m thinking this may be a milestone birthday too? Anyway, happy birthday and just enjoy this one day of the year that is truly yours to enjoy with family and friends. Gary

 

Condelences to Art Hagen and Family:

Prayers are with you during this difficult time.

Sharon Longie Dana(73)

 

Don Sharratt’s passing posted by Sharron Gottbreht Shen (59):Don Sharratt passed away February 1, 2009

Don was adopted by Erwin and Leah Boucher Sharratt who farmed near Thorne. There were two other children born later, Darvin and Sandra. Bonnie McGibbon is Don’s wife. His children are from his first marriage; he also had a daughter who is deceased. Don was born in 1933. He attended high school in Dunseith; lived with a family that maintained the school, grounds and furnace. Don would assist this man and I thought his name was Hagen?? Don did not finish high school, enlisted and served in Korea around age 18. Don is well known to Floyd and Carmen Richard. We had shared and interest in Boucher and Casavant ancestry. His natural parents were of Rolette County; he sought but was never certain of their identity. Don was close to Lee Hosmer and I did call her.

The following is a message from Don Sharratt’s wife, Bonnie:

As most, if not all of you know, my dear Don passed on 2/1/09. Because of this I wanted you to know about the upcoming funeral/memorial service that is planned.

 It is scheduled on Sun 3/08/09, at 1pm at:

 Avalon Chapel/Adair Funeral Home

8090 N Northern Ave

(located in NW Tucson, from the Oracle/Magee intersection, go 1 block west, then 1/2 block north)

Tucson, Az 85704

ph(520) 742-7901, my contact=Sam

 

For out-of-towners:

I want to be sure that visiting is as easy as possible. So I would like to refer you to my niece, Brooke Cromwell, a well-connected professional travel agent, to assist you with any travel needs. She is with Travel Leaders Worldwide, and can be contacted at ph 919-799-0883. Leave your name and number and she will get back to you promptly. By the way, she and I have already done some local hotel inspections and special lodging options near the funeral home have been pre-arranged, including breakfast and airport transportation.

If I can be of assistance to any of you, please let me know. And thanks to all who have sent cards, flowers etc and your good thoughts and prayers. I am so grateful for the support of my family & friends. So, thank you. 

Fondly,

Bonnie

Bonnie L. McGibbon
Donald D. Sharratt
6921 N. Montezuma Dr.
Tucson, Az 85718-2438
home ph (520) 299-2141 (unlisted)
cell (520) 907-0863

 

Email address change for Jerry LaCroix (73):

We have a new email address please use this for
future emails. We too enjoy the stories and information that comes
across the blog.

Jerry LaCroix (73)

 

From Bonnie Awalt Houle 56:

Good Afternoon Gary,

It seems everyone has happy memories of the Peace Gardens. There was nothing my Dad enjoyed more then walking around the Peace Garden, I remember one warm spring day when we were walking around he asked my sister Emma Jean and I to run down this hill and when we got to the bottom by the trees we could say anything we wanted in a normal tone of voice and he would be able to tell us what we had said when we came back up the hill. It was quite a jog down the hill and when we got to the bottom we turned to each other and said something like, “What a Fool Dad was!” Then we raced back up the hill certain he wouldn’t be able to repeat what we had said. He immediately asked us why we thought he was a fool. Then he explained that God had made this natural amphitheater, and someday he was going to put the finishing touches to it, by building a stage and benches into the hillside. I visit this site everytime I return home and this time I say to myself, “What a Fool I was”. I don’t recall what year Dad built the stage and benches but I know I was 7 and my sister 9 when Dad told us his plans. Isn’t it amazing the insight our wonderful ancestors had.

Bonnie Awalt Houle 56

 

Reply from Chrystal Fassett Andersen )70):

Thanks Gary Metcalfe for the insight on “old man Templeman” as my Grandparents always called him, but now I want to know where Rabbit city lake is/was. Terry Halvorson lives out by Riverside cemetery.and I think my Grandparents lived there when they came back from Seattle, guess I better talk to my Uncle Darrel and write some things down. I know where Martin Belgarde lived. I am sure many people have stories about our Grandpa Bill “Pappy” Fassett, since he was the town cop for years and the town fisherman as well. I know all of us “brats”( as he fondly called all his granddaughters), have fishing stories from fishing at Fish Lake with Grandpa Bill. I remember him telling us..when one of us got old enough to ask about fishing limits..that there wasn’t any limit for senior citizens and never when he had brats with him. I remember stopping in places on the way home from the lake to distribute fish to different people, we even kept the bullheads for a Mrs. Belgarde that lived across form Carpenter Lake. I liked stopping there because they had a yard full of kids. Does anyone remember which Belgarde family that was? Anyway, I could go on and on.Thanks again BOTH Gary’s. Crystal Fassett Andersen

10/23/2015 (2302)

10/21/2015 (2301)

Happy Birthday Beth Fauske Duncan (’67): Yorkville, Il.
Fauske Duncan, Beth 2301

 

 

Happy Birthday Carol Robert Braun (’69): Oseceola, WI
Robert Braun, Carol 2301

 


Margery Kester’s Birthday photo
Posted by Cheryl Kester Gaugler (’69):  North Brunswick, NJ

Gary,

Hope this finds you and Bernadette doing well.  My mom, Margery Kester, turned 98 on October 6.  I’ve attached a picture of Mom and her children (left to right-Michael, Joanne Boucher, Pennie Grenier, me).  She is now a resident in the long term care facility in Rugby and doing well.

Thank you for all your hard working keeping everyone connected.

Cheryl (Kester) Gaugler

 

====================================
Blog (370) posted on February 14 , 2009

02/14/2009

Posted on February 14, 2000

From Vickie Metcalfe (70):

GARY, ART HAGEN POSTED THIS ON CARING BRIDGE YESTERDAY. WE HAVE LOST A WONDERFUL PERSON AND GREAT THIRD GRAD EDUCATOR. VICKIE

Thank you for all your thoughts and prayers. To Let you know that Mavis lost her battle to cancer at 5:14PM Feb 12 , 2009.

Love you all Arthur, Devonne, Jon, Jarik, Joashua, Keisha and Keiandra

Condolences to the Art Hagen family from Lynn Halvorson Otto (75):

My sympathies to Art Hagen and to all the extended family on the passing of your dear wife Mavis. I graduated with Arlin and we had 4-H with the Hagen family. May God’s blessings be with you during this difficult time. Lynn Halvorson Otto (75).

Condolences to the Art Hagen Family from Dave Slyter (70):

To Art Hagen and Family:

My thoughts and prayers are with in the coming days, with the loss of your dear wife and mother. She fought a long hard battle and will always be remembered for her uplifting attitude towards it all. God’s Blessing be with you all.

Dave Slyter (70)

Marlys Hiatt’s (71) reply to a joke type email that I sent out. Gary

Hi Gary,

Today (2/12/2009) I opened this email and had to just laugh out loud.
Today is my 56 birthday and I think the sentiment expressed is quite true.

Thanks again for making my day.

Marlys

Marlys, I know you didn’t expect me to reply to your message on the daily blog, but I wanted to wish you happy birthday using this tool. You know I remember the day you were born back in 1953. I was only 5 1/2 years old, but I do remember that day. Your mother and my mother were both pregnant at the same time. Your mother with you and mom with Darrel (Bud). Bud was born several months ahead of you in December 1952. That also put him a year ahead of you in school, having been born in 52. I think you went two years to Ackworth before we were all bused to Dunseith. Gary

Message from Erling Landsverk (44):

HI GARY!

I HAVE BEEN READING THE DAILY DUNSEITH ALUMNI NEWS AND MEMORIES. I AM AWARE THAT MY AGE PREVENTS ME FROM ASSOCIATING FACES WITH THE FAMILY NAMES I READ. I COULDN’T HELP BUT HAVE MY MEMORY JOLTED WHEN BUTTE, ST. PAUL APPEARED IT SO HAPPENS THAT MY FATHER GUNDER LANDSVERK BUILT THE CAIRN MONUMENT ON TOP OF THE BUTTE, AND OUR FAMILY ATTENDED THE STATE CELEBRATION THERE IN 1933 I BELIEVE. I REMEMBER ACCOMPANYING MY DAD, ALONG WITH MY BROTHERS WHO WERE OLDER, AND HELPED DAD BY MIXING MORTAR, AND CARRYING STONES, I REMEMBER ROLLING A COUPLE OF STONES DOWN THE SOUTH FACE OF THE BUTTE UNTILL MY DAD CAUGHT ME, AND SCOLDED ME FOR DOING THAT. HE REMARKED IN NORWEIGEN” STOP THAT, ITS HARD ENOUGH TO GET THE STONES UP HERE, WITHOUT YOU ROLLING THEM BACK DOWN” I REMEMBER THE STONES WERE HAULED UP ON STONE BOATS WITH HORSES. THE WORK WAS DONE BY MY FATHER, SOME OF HIS FAMILY MEMBERS, AND NEIGHBORS WITHOUT COST EXCEPT FOR THE LIME AND CEMENT THAT WENT INTO THE MORTAR, AND I AM NOT SURE THAT THEY DIDN’T ALL CONTRIBUTE TO THAT AS WELL. . I LAST VISITED IT IN 1992, AND I WAS ADVISED BY MY UNCLE THAT HE HAD TO REPAIR SOME DAMAGE CAUSED BY VANDALS, AND I NOTICED THAT A FENCE HAD BEEN INSTALLED TO PROTECT THE MONUMENT TO EARLY MISSIONARIES, AND I BELIEVE IT WAS FATHER BOTTINEAU. SUSAN MARTEN’S ACCOUNT OF SOME OF HER CHILDHOOD WAS FASCINATING, SINCE WE VISITED KOTSCHEVARS DEER HEART LODGE QUITE FREQUENTLY, AND I STILL REMEMBER SOME SUVENIERS THAT MY PARENTS HAD. THE MINERAL SPRINGS ADVENTURES SURELY RING A BELL FOR OUR FAMILY AND NEIGHBORS AS WELL. ALTHOUGH SUSAN IS YOUNG ENOUGH TO BE A DAUGHTER OUR MEMORIES OF THE TURTLE MOUNTAINS(HILLS)ARE STRIKINGLY SIMILAR. I SURELY REMEMBER LLOYD AWALT, I SHOULD, WE WERE CLASSMATES, UNTILL IN 1943 HE JOINED THE NAVY, AND OUR FAMILY MOVED TO WISCONSIN, AND I LATER ENTERED THE ARMY AND SERVED IN THE SOUTH PACIFIC. FROM WHAT I HAVE READ IN THE E MAILS, LLOYD APPEARS TO BE JUST AS GUNG HO AS EVER.. I COULD GO ON AND MENTION LOTS OF FOLKS, AND ALL THE MEMORIES, BUT I BETTER STOP AND GIVE SOMEONE ELSE AN OPPORTUNITY. THANKS FOR THE OPPORTUNITY GARY. HAVE A GREAT VALENTINES DAY EVERYONE!

ERLING LANDSVERK

Erling, I am so sorry I missed posting this message of yours with yesterday’s blog. I just discovered I missed sending it. Gary

Reply from Ele Dietrich Slyter (69):

Thank you Dick for the pictures…I remember going to Deer Heart Park every summer, just as we went to the Peace Garden every summer for a picnic. It was a magical place to me. Seeing all the animals and bridge, cabin and flower beds tucked into the trees as if they had just sprung up right where they were. Everything sort of fit into the way the trees grew. And you never knew what new sight was going to greet you around the next corner. I wish I could take my kids and grandkids to see it in person instead of trying to tell them about it and show them pictures.

Reply from Gary Metcalfe (57):

Hello Gary and Friends,

About Morris Azure, if I am not mistaken, Morris was part of a unique family. His parents, Fred Azure’s ran a very homey type store up on the Reservation for many years. His sisters were rural school teachers, Ackworth for one. Viola married Hartley Carlson from Bottineau.

For what it is worth….I don’t claim to be an authority on world cruises, but Bruce Williams may be. If you don’t know who Bruce Williams is ask Billy Grimme, he seemed to also be a fan of Bruce. Bruce claims to have been on many world cruises and says if you only do one cruise in a lifetime, it has got to be an Alaskan Cruise.

Gary Metcalfe

PS Gary told me that the story about the horse races/foot races that the Native American in the story with the ponytail sticking straight out was ON FOOT, NOT A HORSE. Sue

Gary, As with Erling’s message, I missed sending this yesterday. Sorry about that. Gary

Reply from Paula Fassett (71):

My sisters both wrote, so I’d better get my two cents worth in, too! Cheryl Kester mentioned the ‘quaking bog’, which was at Mineral Springs. As kids we used to hike up there every now and again and the bog was always fascinating! In another stage of my life, old Louie Racine (grandfather to Vincent “Vinnie” Racine, for those of you who know him) talked about it and called it “mushkeg” – which I think is a Cree word – or variation of one – for that kind of area. It’s moss, dead plants, etc., that are more or less suspended or floating on water that seeps from – in this case – the spring and is between that mossy crap and hard ground – voila – quaking bog. There’s probably some fiction mixed in with my fact, but that’s my story. Crystal, I’m glad you added in the part where Susan fell off the log and into the creek – we’ve teased her about that for about 40 years now!!!

Paula Fassett

Paula, Like with Gary M’s and Erling’s messages, I missed sending this one of yours too, yesterday. My apologies. Gary

Reply to Lynn Henriksen (64) from Bill Grimme (65):

Lynn,

This is my Valentine to you. Nice article. I enjoyed reading it very much.

Bill Grimme

Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

Folks, I see Bill sent this message via his Blackberry, so he must still be traveling. He called me a few days ago from San Francisco. The next day his plans were to rent a car and head south to visit/vacation in Carmel, Monterey, Big Sir, etc. Gary

Reply from Trish Larson Clayburgh (73):

 

Hi Gary,

I was really surprised to see an “entry” from my cousin Linda this morning. I haven’t been keeping up with the Dunseith “blog” lately – I’ve been too busy. But I have saved them all and will catch up later on a rainy day…

I wrote an email to Linda, and when I was done, I realized that my memories of those North Dakota summers might stir up similar memories for others, so I thought I’d send it to you to post it if you want to. Linda’s parents were wonderful North Dakota farm people – with big hearts and big laughter. I always enjoyed our summer vacations there, before we moved in 1969 to finally live in North Dakota, near where my mom had grown up.

Here’s what I remembered today, and thanks Gary again for all that you do.
From Trish Larson Clayburgh to Linda Gardner, my favorite cousin:

Hi Linda,

I was surprised to hear that you now live on the West coast. I had no idea!

I live in Fort Collins, CO, not Phoenix. I moved here about 4.5 years ago. I love it here, and have gotten more into my horses than ever. I’m in training to compete this spring in the sport of eventing – a combination of jumping, cross country trials, and dressage. I’m having the time of my life! My “day job” is working as a trauma nurse in an emergency room. We work three 12 hour shifts a week, so that gives me 4 days off to ride my horses, and I’m just loving it! Colorado offers so many opportunities for horse lovers.

It’s funny – my lifelong obsession with horses all started for me as a child on those trips to North Dakota. I was completely horse crazy (which I’m quite sure is a genetic defect), and I remember learning to ride one summer at your house on that big fat black mare at your farm. I was in bliss….my legs could barely hang on to her big round back, and I fell off a hundred times I’m sure, but never really got hurt for some reason. It was heaven for me – riding in the sunshine through the trails to the fields where your brother and dad would be cutting hay or harvesting in the sunshine. I was quite fascinated with the beauty of the rows of cut hay and how they managed to drive that hilly terrain. I would sit on the horse near the edge of the field for hours, watching the farm work, completely happy.

Later, when we moved to Dunseith, it was your dad that helped me find Shawnee, that scraggly little filly palomino I had through high school. She eventually became a wonderful friend and a beautiful sweet horse. My dad bought the horse for me, but it was Uncle Bill who helped me learn to take care of her – from teaching me how to brush her out to fitting the saddle and bridle, and riding her for the first time. I can still remember his laughter and delight in your big barn. He really loved animals and children, didn’t he?

I loved your parents – they were always so good to me, and visits to your farm were always a pleasure to be anticipated. I remember the “Pet” skunk in your chicken house (who was probably enjoying several eggs a day, don’t you think?), and all those baby chicks in the the barn, under that huge light. I also remember my first experience with picking huge grape sized ticks off your farm dogs, and then squishing them on rocks. Uff Dah! I’m surprised my brother didn’t figure out a way to torture me with those….maybe he was as grossed out as I was.

One of the fondest memories of my youth is the homemade ice cream during the summers at your farm, made with the fresh cream from your cows. I remember all the men – your dad, my dad, Lloyd, taking turns turning the crank. As a kid, I couldn’t imagine how it could taste so freaking good with all that salt in it!!! I had no idea back then that the salt was on the outside, working to increase the chill on the cream. I think people enjoyed confusing me – I was like six years old? There were so many of us, there was never enough ice cream left for me – I got only a taste – but it was heavenly!

And of course your mother’s strawberry patch – wow. She grew the biggest strawberries ever! And the raspberries. Eating them with cream and sugar while playing cards at your kitchen table – crazy 8’s I think it was, and of course Rummy! Lloyd was always so funny. There was lots of laughter….and rides on the tractor to the swimming hole after long days of work and for me, riding all day long on that poor black horse.

Anyhow – it’s good to hear from you. What’s going on in your life now?

Trish

Trish Larson Clayburgh in the Rawah Wilderness, CO

Message/Picture from Crystal Fassett Andersen (70):

Hi Gary, In my search for Omemee pictures,I have come across a lot of my Dad’s old pictures that are not labeled but here is one that was. I thought it would trigger some memories and stories. A lot of people probably remember”little” Charlie Andersen,I think they were neighbors to my Grandparents at some point. I remember them talking about living on “the old Templeman” place,and I have it in my head that is where Terry Halvorson lives now,but I know someone will set me straight,if my memory has once again failed me,There is no date on them and the women had no first names,but from looking at my Dad & Uncle Darrel I am guessing this was taken about 1934 or 35. Bill Anderson,Mrs. Bill Anderson,Mrs. Clint Anderson,Clint Anderson(in hat),Charles Anderson,C.B.Templeman,Darrell,Wm.”Bill” & Wilmar”pappy” Fassett and Jiggs the dog. This is certainly fun. Thanks Crystal Fassett Andersen

Bill Anderson, Mrs. Bill Anderson, Mrs. Clint Anderson, Clint Anderson(in hat), Charles Anderson, C.B.Templeman, Darrell, Wm.”Bill” & Wilmar”pappy” Fassett and Jiggs the dog

Frozen Fingers Festival posted by Neola Kofoid Garbe:

From Mark Schimetz (70):

http://www.legis.nd.gov/assembly/61-2009/leginfo/bills-res-jour/index.html

www.legis.nd.gov/assembly/61-2009

Above will get you to various links in the ND Legislators assembly. There is Video access to the floor but none to the 23 standing committees at this time, however hearing schedules are available on the web site

INFORMATION IS FROM AARP.

att: Gary Stokes. You may publish this on in your blog if you wish. I am sure many will be interested in the health care legislation alone this session.

(10/20/2015 (2300)

    Happy Birthday Karen Loeb Mhyre (’65): Bellevue, WA
Loeb Mhyre, Karen 2300


Happy Birthday Lee Stickland: Dickinson, ND
Stickland, Lee 2300

 

Reply to  Bill Hosmer’s Recollection of Dunseith.
From Joe Johnson (’77):   Lindstrom, MN

Gary,

As a reply to Bill Hosmer’s wonderful recollections about Dunseith.  I remember anytime I heard my father and uncle’s talking of Bill Hosmer it was with the highest regard.  Also, Bill’s mention of Sy Kadrie’s pool hall and Neil Hassen brought back some memories of conversations overheard about the pool hall and visits with my father to Neil Hassen’s store on main street in Dunseith.  Growing up in Dunseith was definitely good times!   Gary thanks for keeping us all in touch.  Joe Johnson

 

Justin Abrahamson
Born: November 20, 1980
Died: October 06, 2015

Send Flowers

Justin Abrahamson, age 34 of Aurora, CO died Tuesday October 6, 2015 at his home. Funeral will be held on Friday at 10:00 am at the Peace Lutheran Church in Dunseith. Visitation will be Thursday starting at 6:00 pm with a prayer service at 7:00 pm both at the church. Burial will be at the Little Prairie Cemetery rural Dunseith.

Justin Abrahamson, a son of Doyle Abrahamson and Lynda Biffle, was born on November 20, 1980 at Englewood, CO. He graduated from Ponderosa High School in Parker, CO. He helped his dad for many years, including doing the survey work for home plate at Coors Field. Justin began working for Merrick and Company in Aurora, Co in 1997. He progressed from rodman to instrument operator to party chief. In 2006, along side his dad, he was part of a team who made multiple climbs on the Continental Divide to retrace and re-monument the original Base Line dividing the Kansas and Nebraska territories in which is now Colorado. He attended the University of Colorado and obtained his Bachelor of Science Degree in Civil Engineering on December 13, 2008. Justin worked on Merrick & Company projects throughout the United States.

Justin enjoyed off road four wheeling. He was twice nominated for the Merrick Way award. First for providing CPR to a motorcyclist suffering from a heart attack and also for designing and building theft prevention measures for the Merrick ATV trailer.

Justin is survived by his mother and step-father, Lynda and John Biffle of Parker, CO; half brother, Paul (Tracy) Martin of Olympia, WA; step-mother, Cindy Abrahamson of Aurora, CO; step brothers, Paul (Nicole) Davis of Aurora, CO and Matt Davis of Columbus OH; paternal grandmother, Maude Abrahamson of St. John, ND; maternal grandmother, Vivian Kent of Park Rapids, MN; aunts and uncles; Darrel (Phyllis) Abrahamson and Tom (Betty) Abrahamson all of St. John, Laurie Inkin of Victor, NY, Lynn (Lynette) Kent of Dickinson, ND, Landis (Ann) Kent of Gillette, WY, Ladyn (Susan) Kent of Parker, CO and Larry Kent of Park Rapids, MN; girlfriend, Cassandra Thacker of Aurora CO and nieces, nephews and many cousins.

He was preceded in death by his father Doyle; grandfathers, Howard Abrahamson and Les Kent and one aunt, Jeanmarie Abrahamson.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donation be made to your Toy For Tots, an organization that was very important to Justin.

Arrangements were with Nero Funeral Home in Bottineau. Friends may sign the online register book at www.nerofuneralhome.net.

Send Sympathy Card 

 Print ObituaryView Guest Book Entries 

Sign Guest Book

 

Posting from Vickie Metcalfe (’70):  Bottineau, ND

I love the wisdom of A.A. Milne’ s Winnie the Pooh!

Here is more of Winnie  real Canadian history on todays Canadian news.

http://www.ctvnews.ca/video?playlistId=1.2616492

Vickie

 

Posted by Neola Kofoid Garbe:  Minot & Bottineau, ND

 

====================================
Blog (369) posted on February 13 , 2009

Posted on February 13, 2009

Mavis Hagen’s passing posted by Neola Kofoid Garbe:

This came from my friend, Ruth Gust.

Renee called awhile ago to let me know Mavis (Froseth) Hagen passed away today. Art is her husband. Sue Froseth is Art’s sister.

Folks, Mavis is Art Hagen’s (72) wife. Art’s parents are Clarence (deceased) & Mary Ann Hagen. They lived up in the Ackworth community, in the hills. Art & Mavis are the owners of the Davidson’s meat processing plant in Bottineau.

Art and Family: You have our deepest sympathy with the loss of Mavis. I know she has been struggling with life for sometime time now and we were all hoping she was out of the woods and on her way to recovery. From all reports, I understand that Mavis was a really upbeat and positive person. I understand that she was an excellent teacher too, well liked by her students and staff alike. This has to be a really rough time for you with the loss of such a wonderful companion. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Gary

Hagen Arthur 222 8th St W Bottineau, ND 58318 (701) 228-3865 arthurhagen@min.midco.net

From Lynn Henriksen (64):

Hi Gary,

I gave so much thought yesterday to old friends and what they mean to me, so I wrote the attached post for my blog & published it just now –thought youd appreciate it. <<…>>

Keeping Spirits Alive,

Lynn Henriksen

Website: http://www.telltalesouls.com

Blog: http://www.thestorywoman.com

Lynn, I copied and pasted below, from your blog, the article of discussion that you just posted. You, unlike me, are a very good writer. You have written a wonderful heart wrenching story. Thank you so much for sharing. Gary

Folks, please visit Lynn’s web and blog sites. She has put a lot of work into these wonderful sights.

Be Mine, Valentine

February 12th, 2009

Just a couple days ago something extraordinary ‘happened’ to me, that I want to tell you about.
It was heartwarming, so appropriate for Valentine’s Day – can’t help being a romantic.

I was raised in a wonderful place in the Turtle Mountains of North Dakota at a little country store, Kelvin, just 4 miles south of the US-Canadian International Peace Gardens and 9 miles north of Dunseith, pop. 800! We, kids, were the Dunseith Dragons, “Blue & White Dynamite, Fight Team Fight.” Yes, I’m reminiscing way back to my formative years where a “man’s” handshake was his word, where the work ethic was not asking, “what’s in it for me,” but rather, “what can I do for you,” where the community came together for what we called a ‘building bee’ if someone lost a home or barn or store to a fire, where we could wander the town without fear or supervision and swim in the lake without life guards (luckily, no one drowned). Of course those were simpler times then everywhere, but I cherish my childhood where Turtle Mountain Memories are irreplaceable. A huge piece of my heart lies in the Turtle Mountains and Dunseith, especially Kelvin.

I’m thankful for the Face Book link and Gary Stokes for consciously reconnecting me to that time and place and to those good people. I joined Face Book just last weekend – had my arm twisted, heels dug-in not to go that route, but I have to say it was a very good thing I joined, because Gary Stokes, the Dunseith Alumni guru with a mighty following for his email Blog-blasts, found me and lured me in. He then blasted my unassuming response to that message he sent to me literally all over the place!

Little Valentines have been blowing my way the past few days through direct emails and website contacts reawakening in me tender memories, friendships, and ties. What’s more, many people are interested in writing a bio-vignette about their mothers and sending it to me – others have subscribed to my Blog feed – Wow! I hope they know I feel that the inspiration they say I’ve given them to write a “Mother Memoir” is truly a gift they’re giving me.

Harking back, once again, to school days, when Valentines were a really big deal, I remember we were allowed to build elaborate hearts and houses and chambers to place on the ledge under the windows inside our classrooms, hoping to attract as many Valentines as possible. It was a creative time filled with hopes for love and friendship, as well as dashed dreams, if Mr. or Mrs. Right-for-me didn’t deliver the longed-for “Be Mine.” Politically correct wasn’t even dreamed-up back then, I don’t think; we weren’t expected to give a Valentine to everyone in the class, and each of us knew we wouldn’t get one from everyone else, either. Most of us had our feelings hurt occasionally, but isn’t that real life? Expectations weren’t such that we believed attention, awards, friends, college, or jobs were a given – we knew we had to work for what we got, in return we learned to value what we did receive.

I value my Valentines past, present, and future. Thanks for being in my life. I used to think online cards were not sincere enough or the easy way – but I roll with the times and blogs.
I sincerely want you to Be Mine, Valentines . . . xo

Lois Hiatt Fugere’s Obituary posted by Neola Kofoid Garbe:

Arnold Wenstad family posted by Neola Kofoid Garbe:

Folks, I don’t have an email address for either Gary or Karen. I’m hoping that someone can pass this message along to them if you/they should happen to see them. Gary is living in the Willow Lake area and Karen is living in Kansas. When putting their class lists together, I had a nice visit with both Gary & Karen. Gary

Karen, Gary Arnold & Arlene Wenstad

Winthrop/Clara Smith picture posted by Neola Kofoid Garbe:

Pictures posted by Dick Johnson (68):

Gary and Friends,

Here are a few pictures of Deerheart Lodge from the Dunseith History
Book. Many of the readers probably have the book and have already seen
these, so these are for the ones who don’t yet have a copy. Thanks Gary!

Dick

10/18/2015 (2299)

Happy Birthday Bob Leonard (’51): Dunseith, ND
Leonard

 

Happy Birthday to Bill Hosmer
From Glen Williams (’52):  Missoula, MT.

Happy Birthday…to Bill Hosmer….and may you have many more…

You are a hero to many of us old timers

Glen Williams

 

Reply from Bill Hosmer (’48): Tucson, AZ.

Gary, This was one of those chapters of your contribution to the betterment

of all of us who grew up in and around Dunseith.  The picture of your family

showing the cards and pictures on the wall, plus the never to be forgotten

uniform of the day, the bib overall.  What a remarkable recollection of our

days in that special place we will never forget as long as we live.

I note, that at becoming 85, that certain things creep into the mind.

First, I was not supposed to live this long. Second, I’m glad I did because

some of the readers of this forum need to know that I knew your grandparents,

parents, and now you.  So let me say that Gary has given us the gift of

simple ways to say something to each other.  For that I propose a toast to Gary and

his beautiful wife who I had the pleasure of hugging on the street of Bottineau.

All of you have in one way been a part of my life through earlier generations of your

families, which makes me believe you are part of who I am. Growing up in Dunseith

in the 30s and 40s with the likes of Chuck Johnson and his brothers, Darrel Fassett,

playing basketball with Don Johnson, and being in love with his wife, Bernice, living

next door to the Sunderland  girls, when Patsy and I at the age of about

5 decided we would be married and go to West Point and raise chickens, when

the Evans brothers and I ran around the Mill and Grandpa Gottbreht chased us

out of the flour room for making a mess.  Hazel Olson worked for my Dad

at the Hosmer store for many years. There were the Cornell’s, five offspring

who all served during WW II. The only Five Star Flag in a window in town;

Floyd Nelson who had a barber shop next to the Althea theater, along with

Jess Wilson who had one close to the Drug store.  The Shelves’ who

tolerated our reading funny books until we were told to either buy one or

go for a walk. Sy Kadrie  had a pool hall, but 18 was the age of allowance.

One day I was back on a leave from West Point, playing pool there when

on the radio an announcement told of the break out of the Korean War. The

Hassens had a store on the south side. Neil and I were in the same class

at the old Dunseith School.  Across the street, north of Hassens was the

telephone operator, Mrs. Deeter.  She had two daughters, I was in love

with Carol, the youngest. One day after school I  took her a bouquet of wild flowers

and handed them to her on the back porch. She grabbed them and kicked me

on my shin with her hard toed shoes and slammed the door shut. Wayne Molgard

was with me and laughed himself silly. His Dad was a railroad man on

our Galloping Goose which went out in the morning and back in the afternoon.

We are from a rural community and I brag about it to all my retired military

pals who would not understand the value system developed because of

the mutual respect the people in town and in the hills and on the prairie

had for one another.  Nothing in my long life has been more important

than being a part of the society of those who began, survived, and left

Dunseith and those nearby who made it work.  Thank you, Bill Hosmer

 

Reply from Ginger LaRocque Poitra (’65):  Belcourt, ND

Vicki and Gary,

My son Todd would like to thank you for the kind words concerning his new position as VSO (Veterans Service Officer).

Ginger ( LaRocque ) Poitra class of 1965 , a classmate of Gary’s

 

 

From Ron Peltier (’70):  Dunseith, ND

Hi Gary, just reading a comment from Cheryl Kester Gaugler, I don’t know if anyone ever answered her question, but I’m sure she was talking about Mineral Springs.

 

Re Cheryl Kester’s Spongy Ground.
From Dale Pritchard (’63): Leesville, LA.

I apparently missed this the first time around.  Yes, in 1964 or 65 I came across this oddity of spongy earth about half-way between Rugby and Minot on the North side of the highway.  it was on a gently sloping side hill and I was into it before I realized the ground was wet.  It seemed to move like little waves when I walked on it.  Like I didn’t know any better, I jumped up and down a couple times and the ripples in the sod went out about 10 feet.   It was then that the thought “quick sand” came to mind.  I very carefully got back on dry ground.  My boss went to two or three farmers in that area the next day to see if they knew anything about it.  The farmers said it was just a place where the water table came to the surface, somewhat like a natural spring.   Years later, about 1975, I saw basically the same thing in my wife’s grandfather’s back yard in Mississippi.  He had tapped into it and that’s where he got his house water from.  I still don’t like ground that moves under me!

Dale Pritchard

 

====================================
Blog (368) posted on February 12 , 2009

02/12/2009

Request from Shelly Hagel (78):
Hi Gary,
Will you please add my dad (Ray Hagel) to your email list.
I am sure he will enjoy…………………
Thanks so much
Shelly
Ray, it’s my pleasure to add you to our distribution. Gary
Reply to yesterday’s pictures from LaVerne (Carrole Fauske 66) Rude:
Hi Gary & Bernadette,I was just looking at the photos and info on the blog and must say I can’t remember ever seeing the group picture of us all. Sure brings back the memories of those many years ago. Carrole was looking over my shoulder and her comment was, “That Gary sure was a good looking kid”. That picture of the “old man” was one I can’t remeber either. Hope all is well with you guys and I do hope to see you this summer.

LaVerne

Carrole, Thanks for the compliment. I think those features were short lived though. I noticed I had you listed with the class of 67 yesterday. I’ve corrected that with today’s message. We are all looking forward to seeing you guys this summer, up in Seattle, at our Dunseith reunion on July 24th. Gary
Reply from Linda Gardner (Bottineau):
It was so exciting running into Jackie at the Elks – I’ve been in the Washington area for almost 40 years (can’t believe it’s been that long) and it’s not very often that I run into someone from back home unexpectedly!
My dad and Trish’s mom were actually brother and sister so Trish is my cousin. I have not heard from her since she moved west to Phoenix I believe.
I got together with some friends (Laframboise family in Rugby) I went to country school with the in the Turtle Mountains last summer and we thought it would be fun idea to have a Turtle Mountain Country School Reunion. I originally contacted the Superintendent of schools (Bottineau and Rolette share the Superintendent) to see if I could get some names but have not heard back from him – It’s been over a year and half since I contacted him. Is there anyone interested in participating in that?
I plan to be in the Bottineau area this summer for the Q-Centennial and hope to get some plans in motion for such a reunion in the summer of 2010.
My mother was a Wenstad so a lot of my cousins on that side of the family went to country school in the Turtle Mountains and then to school in Dunseith. Our farm bordered the Rolette County Line but the farm itself was in Bottineau County even though our address was Dunseith.
As I was reading the messages, I was especially interested in the one about Butte St. Paul. We used to have most of our Country School picnics there and it used to be a “hot” spot for gatherings – I actually climbed up the Butte summer before last. I had been up in the “hills” as we referred to them, visiting Jack & Minnie Flynn. On the way back to Towner, we stopped at the Butte. It was a wonderful view from the top!
The other “hot” spot where we used to spend a lot of family/friends time was Long Lake – fishing, picnicing and playing horseshoe. Bud Hagan used to run the place there (he was my mother’s cousin) and it was always a good time.
Linda, I pulled out the Bottineau book after sending that message yesterday and noticed that Trish Larson’s (73) mother and your dad were siblings. I remember Trish telling me that too, when I asked her if she was related to you and Lloyd. We frequenly hear from your many Wenstad cousins too, that we have on our distribution list.
Margaret Metcalfe Leonard’s (65) reply to photo posted yesterday:
Hi Gary,The instructor is Morris Azure. He had a TV business in Rolette at one
time and I know his family very well. He worked at the Jewel Plant in
Rolla for many years. His daughter Julie Pfeifer lives in Rolette.
Margaret

Mel Kuhn’s (70): reply to photo posted yesterday:
Howdy,
The unknown instructor looks like either Morris Azure or Al Azure. Al worked for Baker Elec. for years. Morris at the Jewel Plant.
Mel Kuhn
Morris Azure

From Marge Longie Langan-Wilcox (56):

 

Gary,
I would like to wish everyone on the Dunseith Alumni a Happy Valentine’s
Day.

marge langan-wilcox t

 

 

 

 

From Susan Fassett Martin (65):

 

Deerheart Lodge was owned by Henry Kotschevar, who was a brother to Lillie Kotschevar. Lillie lived just south and west of Dunseith on the little farm which we as kids liked to call “the smiling house” . Lillie was connected to the Watkins clan, as Sue (Watkins) Bell lived with her for many years as a companion and housekeeper. Carol Carbonneau may have more information. The following is from an article written in the Minot Daily News from an interview with Lillie when she was 90 years old. She was a sweet lady and was at most of our family functions over my growing up years. I wish that I had interviewed more of the older family members back then and gleaned more information. Here is the excerpt:

“……Lillie’s brother Henry Kotschevar will be remembered by many as the operator of Deer Heart Lodge, a tourist attraction four miles west and two miles north of Dunseith for 25 years. Henry, a graduate of the University of North Dakota, and his wife moved on a quarter section of brush land and pasture about 1935 and developed the area into a fairyland park and home.

They showed their home with its furniture carved from native timber and their park to the public until his health failed about 1960………..Their place was sold to Frank, Julian and Joseph Peltier and they in turn have sold the place to Kenneth Hill………Kotschevar had made all the furniture in the house, including a dining room table from plywood and a bed. He carved lamps, lamp stands, vases and picture frames from poplar. Selling these items and other souveniers, along with a 15-cent admission to tour the lodge during the summer months provided the Kotschevars with their only income. They reared four boys and a girl……..

On a Sunday the lodge sometimes had more that 100 visitors. Mrs Kotschevar, who took up taxidermy, mounted deer, birds, chipmunks and frogs for display on the grounds, some in glass showcases. In one area stuffed frogs she labeled, ” Dunseith poker players” were playing cards around a table. On a pedestal enclosed in two feet of glass mounted squirrels gathered for a wedding included one dressed as a priest and a couple in appropriate garb.

Kotschevar dug a circular brook which flowed under a stone bridge. Fed by a flowing well, the small brook provided a setting for a large number of flower beds and stone walks. He made one stone flower bed in the shape of a star with an upper portion in the shape of a pentagon. Using stone from the area, Kotschevar built a gateway to the yard and a wall around the trees. Kotschevar and his wife also had a vegetable garden and a garden where they raised apples, plums and strawberries. On the west end of the lodge they provided a picnic shelter for the public. Tours would start and end at their house. ”

Can you picture the place?? What a shame that so many of the landmarks around Dunseith have not been preserved. If any one has any pictures of Deer Heart Lodge, please post them or I would like to have copies. Contact me. If anyone would like the entire article I could copy and send.

Hugs and Prayers, Susan

 

 

 

 

Reply from Clark Crum (54):

 

Gary,

The “quaking bog” was at mineral Springs (you could drink the water coming out of the springs. I always thought you were on a big bowl of jello, it was very different. There was a site where we found artifacts on the way up to the springs.

Dick Morgan, Glen Williams and Don Hosmer led the way for Gary Morgan, Jerry Williams, Barry Shelver and I on many a trips to the Springs and the site.

Clark Crum

 

 

Reply from Susan Fassett Martin (65):

 

Paulette LaCroix asked about the “quaking bog”. That probably was at Mineral Springs just north of town a couple of miles. We used to make a trek up there every summer and bounce on the bog. Crystal has pictures in dad’s old slides of us hiking up there. Maybe she will post them. I remember in High School about 6 or 7 of us got left up there after a school trip by Mr Grossman and had to hike back to town. I know it was me, Phyllis McKay and 3 or 4 others. Anyone remember that from the class of ’65?? I think Kenny Nerpel was in the bunch??

Susan

 

 

Reply from Bob Hosmer (56):

In reply to Cheryl, I remember something of what you describe being near Mineral Springs. It was a most interesting phenomenon. I was raised and round–maybe fifty feet or so across and, as you said, spongy. Someone else may have a better grip that memory than I do.

Bob

Bob Hosmer, WA Chaplain
Marketplace Chaplains USA
Cell: 425-299-0928
Email: rkhosmer@comcast.net
Website: www.MChapUSA.com

 

 

 

 

Message/Pictures from Crystal Fassett Andersen (70):

 

I saw Cheryl Kester Gauglers inquiry about mineral springs. I am not going to attempt the history of it but it was a main place for an excursion for our family. It was always kind of scary/exciting to walk on the bog and have it bounce.We were always told it was kind of a sacred place for the native Americans so we were always on the lookout for arrowheads or some such treasure.But I don’t recall any of us ever finding anything.The Kester twins & our family often hiked up there. We would always call Jim Evans to get permission to go traipsing through his cow pasture. My Mom Irene or my Aunt Lenore would point out various plants, trees and of course any potential berry patches. One time the creek was high enough that we couldn’t wade across and had to crawl on a log. My sister Susan fell off and got soaked. She didn’t think that was as funny as the rest of us did!!I am enclosing a couple of pictures of one of our excursions.1st pic. Mineral SpringsSusan,Marise Hoover,Crystal,Lenette Hoover,Donnie Law,Irene(Mom),Lenore Watkins Hoover(moms sister),Craig Law & Les Hoover 2nd: Marise Hoover,Paula Fassett,Lenette Hoover,Susan Fassett,Irene & Crystal Fassett posing by Mineral springs 3rd: Irene Fassett, Bonner Law(the game warden at that time)Susan Fasset,Les Hoover,Donnie & Craig Law

Mineral Springs: Susan, Marise Hoover, Crystal, Lenette Hoover, Donnie Law, Irene(Mom), Lenore Watkins Hoover(moms sister), Craig Law & Les Hoover

Marise Hoover, Paula Fassett, Lenette Hoover, Susan Fassett, Irene & Crystal Fassett posing by Mineral springs

Irene Fassett, Bonner Law (the game warden at that time)Susan Fasset, Les Hoover, Donnie & Craig Law

 

 

 

 

Frozen Finger Festival posted by Neola Kofoid Garbe

 

Hi Gary,

I sent this awhile ago, but I’m resending it, as the “BIG EVENT” is this weekend! It should be lots of fun. I hope the weather co-operates. Last year, it was so cold it wasn’t fit for anyone to out and about.

Neola

10/17/2015 (2298)

               Happy 90th Birthday Guy Knox: Dunseith, ND
Knox, Guy 2298

            Happy 85th Birthday Bill Hosmer (’48): Tucson, AZ
Hosmer, Bill 2298

 

Happy Birthday Carol Pritchard Corzine (’67): Denver City, TX.
Pritchard, Carol 2298

Todd Poitra – Rolette County’s Veterans Officer
Posting from Vickie Metcalfe (’70): Bottineau, ND

Ginger, Gary and friends,

This week’s  Turtle Mountain Star has a  great, lengthy article,  and photo of Todd Poitra.

Todd Poitra is  Rolette County’s  new Veterans Officer, replacing Mr. Boucher who retired.

Todd served the United States of America as a Marine for six years!

Every now and again , Ginger (LaRocque)  Poitra is   accompanied by her son Todd  to Bottineau.

Tony exudes ever so much patience …..while Ginger and I enjoy are oft to a good visit!

I am certain Mr. Poitra will be an asset to Rolette County’s Veterans.

Until later. Vickie

Folks,
With the little correspondence that I have had with Todd I know that he will do a great Job being the Rolette County Veterans officer. He comes from great stock. His mother, Ginger LaRocque Poitra. is a class mate of mine, the DHS class of ’65.
Gary

 

====================================
Blog (367) posted on February 11 , 2009

Posted on February 11, 2009

Reply from Lynn Henriksen (64):

Yes, of course I remember Dot & Tommy! Mom loved you both so much. I always remember you as being so nice & fun. The names you just brought up & even the mention of the cabin behind Kelvin bring up so many wonderful memories – it actually brings tears to my eyes and tightens my throat, so I’m glad I can type, not have to speak right now, since I’d break down bawling. Seems like a million years ago – and the stuff we each have tucked inside can be triggered so easily by just the mention of a name. Thank you for think of us!

Briefly, Dana and Rick and families are all happy & healthy – Dana in Idaho, Rick in Oregon (1/3 of the time in Baja developing his “casa” project).

And yes, all the play time & boyhood memories between Markey and Hal. Hal had a horrible, crippling accident about 20 years ago – he is amazing, doesn’t let quadriplegia stop him – has a beautiful “saint” of a girl friend, writes, etc. I’m sure he’d love to hear from Markey & from you two – don’t know if I should put his email address in this reply, so please email me & I’ll give it to you.

Keeping Spirits Alive,

Lynn Henriksen

Website: http://www.telltalesouls.com

Blog: http://www.thestorywoman.com

Reply to Tom & Dot Hagen from Colette Hosmer (64):

Hi Tom and Dot,

I remember you well! Lynn and I were best friends and if she wasn’t staying at my house I was at Kelvin with her. I felt like I had two homes during those years. I remember walking down the hill often to visit you and Dot and the kids. I also remember you working in the store. It seemed as if you were always in a good mood and had a great sense of humor. I’ve thought of you and your family often over the years.

 

Colette

From Cheryl Kester Gaugler (69):

Hi Gary,

Am learning a lot of history about Dunseith from these postings – thank you.

I have a question: Does anyone know the history of the ‘quaking bog’? The Fassett girls, Pennie and I (and whoever else was available) used to take hikes, led by Bill & Irene Fassett, up through Evans pastures, across the creek and into an area that was very unique. It was full of small streams with a middle that moved, like the piece of earth was spongy. I think they may have surveyed it at one time to see if there was anything worth mining. Does this sound familiar to anyone?

Thank you once again for all your time and effort keeping everyone connected.

Cheryl

From Jacqueline Hiatt Fix (79):

Good Day Gary,

It is a small world. Miles from ND, first time at this Legion in VA and I am told there are people from ND there. I say great not thinking they would be remotely close to Dunseith, think again. Linda Gardner daughter of Phelps (Bill) and Lillian Gardner from a farm on the county line! She attended the country schools until they closed and because the farm was on the Bottineau side attended Bottineau. She told me how she would like to have a reunion with individuals who attended the country school. And of course I told her all about your great communication tool that we all relive the “good old days” and stay in touch with current affairs back home. Her e-mail address:

Thanks Gary.

Linda Gardner, I remember you and I know many of our readers from the Willow Lake/Beaver Dam & Rendahl church areas will as well. Trish Larson Clayburgh’s mother, from the class of 73, is a Gardner. I’m assuming Trish’s mother and your dad were cousins. I have added you to our daily distribution. Please let me know if that is OK. It is in deed a very small world. Gary

Reply from Rita Anderson (Former owner of the Gamble store):

Dunseith Alumni,

I was to the Cachevars, a little farm, or whatever several times. Their furniture was made from the wood that they got in the Turtle Mountains. They grew alot of their own vegetables. If you want to know more about it, you can contact Carol Watkins Carbonneau. She could tell you more about them. There is another place not too far from there called Butte St. Paul. Many years ago, there were alot of doings there. There is a stone monument at the very top, quite a steep climb to get there, but once you get to the top, on a clear day you can see quite a distance. That property was donated by Pete Bogawlaski many years ago. It was quite a place for picnics and outings. In the Turtle Mountains, there is also a place called Bear Bute. It is also a steep climb, but worth the view. I just thought I would mention these.

Rita Anderson

LaVerne Rude’s military photo posted by Neola Kofoid Garbe:

Folks, Neola sent this picture of LaVerne Rude in his Air Force uniform. LaVerne is a retired Air Force Pilot. I’m not sure of his entire Air Force career, but I do know that he flew a lot of the C141′s over the Pacific. LaVerne is Married to Carrole Fauske (66). Many of you and especially those of you from the Bottineau area know LaVerne. He graduated from Bottineau HS in 1963, the Forestry in 1965 and NDSU in 1967. The Rude’s lived about 2 1/2 miles into Bottineau County, just east of Salem church, on #43, also know as the Peace Garden Road. Glen is still living on the farm.

LaVerne, I just happen to have a recent picture of you too, that I included. That picture of us together in 1953 brings back lots of memories. Our families were back and forth, real often, in those days. Dad took the picture, so he’s not in the picture. Bib Overalls were sure in, back then. I think it was in about 1953 that I remember your dad telling us they budgeted $5.00 each for you Glen and Arliss’ Christmas gifts. Our folks could sure stretch those cream checks back in those days.

Stokes’ & the Rude’s (Stokes house) – Christmas 1953:
Adults L to R: Glen, Gladys & Arliss Rude, Elaine Stokes, Albert Rude
Kids L to R: LaVerne Rude, Allen, Darrel & Gary Stokes


Kim Lagerquist’s (80) picture posted by Neola Kofoid Garbe:

Gary,

Here’s a name I recognize!!

Neola

Neola, Kim is Evon Lagerquist’s younger brother & son of Leola. Gary

10/15/2015 (2297)

Happy Birthday Rita Parisien Anderson (’73): New Rockford, ND
Parisien Anderson, Rita 2297

Happy Birthday Jim Mellmer (’72): Mandan, ND
Mellmer, Jim 2297


Happy Birthday Jan Peterson Hurley: Walhalla, ND
Peterson Hurley, Jan 2297


Ralph Bjornseth’s 90th Birthday celebration
Posting from Luella Boardman Bjornseth (’49):  Bottineau, ND

Hi!

Just wanted to let you Ralph had a great 90th birthday party.  Wish you could have been here for it.  All the kids, grand kids and great grandkids except one who was sick were here plus a lot of other relatives and friends.  It was fantastic and seemed like everyone had a great time.  Got lots of pictures and I expect you have already seen some of them that  a couple  of the grandchildren put on Facebook.

Now the last of them have headed for home so things are getting quiet and we can get some sleep.  Hope Bernadette is feeling better.  Tell her hello from us.

Luella

Ralph and Luella Bjornseth family
Bjornseth, Ralph Family 2297

 

Vietnam Voices with Jerry LaFountian.
Web Link posted by Vickie Metcalfe (’70):  Bottineau, ND

Note: Jerry LaFountian’s dad was from Belcourt, ND.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u5fpRb2oyBI
Vietnam Voices: Jerry LaFountain

 

Reply to Vickie Metcalfe’s Vietnam Web link posting
From Cheryl Larson Dakin (’71): Bedford, TX

The article Vickie submitted was very interesting.  My Dad was the supply officer and then the XO in Pleiku from June 8, 1967 to June 8, 1968. When he came home we were transferred to Minot where he was the regular army advisor to the National Guard. One of his duties was to inform families of sons/fathers/brothers killed or missing in action in VN. Fortunately it wasn’t often he had to call on families but when he did he never just walked away. Sometimes he spent hours sitting with families. And many times he went back later to check on them.  When I read articles about this era, I am always relieved when there is a good ending. There were so many that weren’t. Thank you to all the brave boys and men and women who served during that time.

Cheryl Larson Dakin

 

====================================
Blog (366) posted on February 10 , 2009

02/10/2009

Reply from Tom Hagen (51):
Hi, Gary, this is to reply to Lynn Henriksen(64) Hi Lynn, do you
remember Tom and Dot Hagen when we
lived and worked for your Mom, Midge, for 3 summers at Kelvin??? I
worked with Rick in the store and gas station and we lived first in the
little cabin down back and later in a mobile home we would bring up for
the summer. The phone exchange at first was Eleanor (Metcalfe) and
Cliff Nerpel, and later Kathy (Maginol) and George Gregory. Ken Tooke
would bring the gas for the pumps. Lots of memories come back from
those days!!!! How are Dana and Rick???

We love E-mail letters, Love Tom and Dot

Hi, sorry but I had to add a little more to the message Lynn Henrikson
(64) Her brother Hal and our son Mark (Tom) are about the same
age(50s) and played together every summer . Our son and family are
moving to AZ in July what is Hal doing now???

We love E-mail letters, Love Tom and Dot

Reply from Marge (Landsverk) Fish (57):
Hi Gary and all,
I was just reading Dick’s e-mail and it brought back memories.
I remember going to Cachevar’s? I’m not sure of the spelling. It was on the crest of a hill at the start of the Turtle Mountains.
It was very different with furniture made of tree limbs and varnished. There was a lot of taxidermy of frogs playing violins, otters, prairie dogs and more, it was fascinating to a kid. It was across the road from Hills.
I was friends with Elve and Arla Hill and remember going there and riding horses. That was a big deal as I was crazy about horses and a town girl.
I had my first soft serve ice cream cone at the little place that was on the west side of Iver Lo’s store. I’m sure they made it with cream as it was the best that I can remember.
I got my hair cuts and rarely fixed at Maries beauty shop. I mostly got Toni Perms that got pretty hard to manage from my mom but thats what you did when your hair was straight as a stick.
I don’t remember if the Smokers in the basememt of the city hall were in the 50′s or before but there were rumors of guys losing a farm or a vechicle.
Dales cafe had the best hamburgers with everything on them even cucumbers!
Thanks Gary!
Take Care
Marge (Landsverk) Fish
From Bonnie Awalt Houle (56):
Dear Gary,
In answer to the question about the “Tastee Freeze” soft ice cream parlor next to Marie’s Beauty Shop. Some of the girls’ that worked there; Millie Crum and Elaine Schneider were the first two who worked there, next it was Marlene Kraft and Joann Kester. I don’t remember who worked there after that. It was a great place to hang out in the 50′s.
Bonnie Awalt Houle (56)
From Sharron Gottbreht Shen (59):
So excite by the clip posted by Dick Johnson – made my day! I wonder if it was moved? destroyed by fire? Must go but will want to write to Lloyd soon and thank him for his input.

Gary I have searched over and hour for the Hot Sauce ordering info. Cannot seem to locate. If not too much trouble please paste to me. Sharron

Sharron, I have 3 bottles of this hot sauce, compliments of Bill Hosmer. It’s good stuff.
This is the info on the bottles.
Mile High Hot Sauce
288 Aviation Road
Pikeville, NC 27863
Toll-Free Orders: 1-866-264-5344
mpcooper@milehighhotsauce.com
Reply From Sharron Gottbreht Shen:
Yes Gary,

I like the dialogue. Bill Evans often called Dale “George junior” – your slip brought this dear expression to mind. In my father’s will drawn up after inlistment, George, my brother, is called Dale Jr. and he is listed second, my spot! It speaks to me about pride and affection and makes me happy. The picture of dad standing by the repaired semi was taken about 1947 along the street of the former Link home where we moved that same year. Dad learned to remove his keys from that semi after young George climbed in at age 4/5 and attempted to drive! The rolled trailer picture was probably late spring 1944. I hope to verify that today. I have no idea where the rear axel/wheels may have gone but Uncle Roland might know.

Sharron

Sharron, I have reposted the picture of your dad with the correct labeling. With the first posting I identified him as George. Sorry for the mistake. Gary
Dale Gottbreht
Posting from the Dunseith Journal from Dick Johnson (68):
Gary and Friends,

With all the talk about these guys lately, here are their bowling scores
from November 28, 1938. This is from the Dunseith Journal also. If you
don’t care to sit in the old bowling alley and watch these guys, you can
walk over to the Althea Theater and take in a show! Thanks Gary!

Dick

Pictures from Dick Johnson (68):
Gary and Friends,Here are a couple pictures to go with the newspaper bowling scores and Althea Theater ad. Don Johnson bowling in the old bowling alley–Lilleby’s, behind the bar and Eleanor Awalt Stickland in front of the show hall. Thanks Gary. Dick

Don Johnson

Eleanor Awalt Stickland
 


Posted by Ellen Graff Myrick (58):

How’s this for a “snowman” !! This was built in Wahpeton ND. Kinda gives you an idea of how much snow we’ve been having.
Pretty good sculpture too, don’t ya think?

10/13/2015 (2296)

    Happy Birthday Patti Metcalfe Woods (’70): Dunseith, ND
metcalfe Woods, Patti 2296


3 Brothers in Viet Nam
Web Link posted by Vickie Metcalfe (’70):  Bottineau, ND

His dad was Turtle Mtn. Chippewa.

http://billingsgazette.com/news/local/vietnam-voices-i-prayed-to-everybody-the-devil-the-great/article_2f533e26-5c6a-53d0-919a-d51862b1031e.html

A great article about a Vet  from Lewis town Montana.

 

====================================
Blog (365) posted on February , 2009

02/09/2009

Lynn Henriksen (64) Reply to Gary:

Hi Gary,

Thank you for your kind words about my site – Ive worked very hard on it, to say the least. Yes, you can post my website on your blog (I’m so snowed under with getting my website platform robust, that I seldom get a chance to read your blog – sorry, but I just can’t do it all).

Thought you’d enjoy this bit of info: the picture I have up of the book cover I designed for TellTale Souls: Keeping Spirits Alive One Story at a Time is Mom on board the SS Aleutian on her way to Alaska, pregnant with my brother, Rick. You probably saw it when you looked at the site.

If you do link my site, I’ve found it’s best to just paste this:http://www.telltalesouls.com. Also, since I’m hoping to get TTS published this year, I’m beginning work on my next book, which will be the male voice on mothers. I’d love it if you’d write a bio-vignette about your mother or another important woman in your life.

I’d be pleased if you’d put it out there that I’d be interested in hearing from any or all of you reader with a story for possible inclusion in my next book. That would be so great to have Dunseith-rooted people included in my book – I’d be thrilled. Both Colette & Janet (Hosmer) and Dana (my sister), as well as Sam (Colette’s daughter) and both my daughters, Jennifer & Samantha, have stories in the current book.

It is important to note that when someone submits a story it needs to through my site – it’s easy by clicking on “Submit Your Story” so their “Mother Memoirs” won’t go to spam and I won’t lose them in the avalanche of daily emails!

Hope youre well & happy! You always sound so positive and upbeat

Keeping Spirits Alive,

Lynn Henriksen

Website: http://www.telltalesouls.com

Blog: http://www.thestorywoman.com

From LeaRae Parrill Espe (67):

Lloyd Awalt’s comments on the “smokers” made me think of Deer Heart Lodge.
I remember visiting there when I was quite young. There was a carving a four “frogs” in a poker game. The older folks seemed to know the inside joke that they represented certain town men. ( Maybe I have this mixed up and someone can shed some light on other details of what seemed like an enchanted spot.) Deer Heart Lodge was located on the Willow Lake Road and that place is currently owned by Kenny Hill. I remember alot of taxidermy, full size deer standing around the yard. Also, the furniture was hand made out of logs. I wonder what happened to all of the mementos that were there. Lots of tourists visited there and we would often have strangers drive in our yard looking for it, We had to tell them they were one mile off.
“Smokers” were used by the Jaycee’s in the late 60′s to raise money to buy bleachers for the gym. The Dunseith Jaycees of that era were very active and achieved #1 in the State Parade of Cities two years in a row under the presidencies of John Morgan and Terry Espe. The guys really pitched in on community projects as well as participating in state and national events. Rodney Armentrout flew a few members to the National Jaycee Convention in St. Louis. The convention was held under the “Arch” and one of the speakers was President Richard Nixon.
 
Reply from Gary Metcalfe (57):
On page 355 in Mountain Memories has a superbly written article about a 7 year old son of Oliver Decoteau who drown on a spring day in Willow Creek, in Dunseith. He crawled out on a branch and it gave way. Spring of 1960. Clarence Michael’s was the policeman on duty.
A few people have expressed some interest in the old stories. If a story seems a little to much to believe about the old days, don’t be too sure. My dad told the story about Jack Smith, that old rounder who brought wild horses from Montana for a big sale in Dunseith and what a celebration every 2 or 3 years. It was said he and one of the old Demery’s fought for 3 days, I think they took nights off. I likened that to something that I observed many times in the hills. You had smaller farms and I thought it was interesting to observe a bull and a neighboring bull, they would threaten each other for a day or so then fight for an hour and rest for an hour, this would go on for 2 or 3 days sometimes. Lots of times I’m sure people didn’t know what was going on.
I decided to share Ben Lagimodeire’s secret how to save yourself from a mean bull in an open pasture. We have some people living in Wyoming and Montana who may need to use this information. He took down his pants, put his hands under his knees and jumped backwards toward the bull in short sporadic jumps. It worked on that bull and he was a notoriously mean bull.
They had grand horse and foot races, does anyone know the name of the old Native American that had a long braid that stuck straight behind him on that fast horse? Did you know that Art Seim was a pretty fast runner.
Gary Metcalfe
Reply from Dick Johnson (68):
Gary and Friends,

Lloyd Awalt–I too thought the picture was of Dale Gottbreht standing by
the semi. It was the way I remember him, kind of all business. You
mentioned Marie’s Beauty Shop being south of the Althea theater. When
did she move to Charlie Wright’s building where she spent the last many
years in the business? How many folks remember the ‘soft serve’ ice
cream shop that was just on the south side of ‘new’ Marie’s beauty shop?
I remember some of the high school girls worked there. It must have been
in the mid to late ’50s, and wasn’t there for very long–maybe only one
summer, although I’m not sure. We got a few ice cream cones there and
sat in the shade by the Dakota Hotel and ate them. Lloyd mentioned the
‘smokers’ in the basement of the city hall and the preacher that tried
to shut them down. Gary Morgan commented about that back a while. He
mentioned the name of the pastor which I think was from the Methodist
church, if I remember right. If you saved these messages, it was in one
of them with the picture of the Methodist church (community) choir.
Lastly, Lloyd mentioned Dale Gottbreht’s manufacturing business making
whetstone sharpeners, etc. A few years ago I found a new piece of
equipment in a box, in perfect condition. The sticker on the device said
‘Made by Dunseith Manufacturing’. I gave it to George Gottbreht as I
thought it was probably more meaningful for him to have than me. It was
made in Dale’s shop. Thanks for the memories, Lloyd. Thanks Gary!

Dick

Reply from Mona Dionne Johnson (48):
Gary:
I, too, realized the pics were of Dale Gottbreht, that is like Lloyd
says. I remember riding in the truck with Dale on his way to Grand
Forks and him dropping me off in Emerado where he and my Aunt Alma lived
at the time, and me helping with their children.
That goes a long way back, but some memories stick with you. I ‘spose
at the time that was the farthest away from home that I had traveled.
And, of course, I lived with them in Dunseith my first year of high school.
Mona Dionne Johnson (48)

10/11/2015 (2295)

Reply to Allen Richard (65) from Kay Hosmer (77):

Happy Birthday to one of my favorite teachers, Mr. Richard – from Kay Hosmer (77)

Allen Richard


Pam Wenstad Lane’s (78) reply to Gary:
Thank You Gary, I want to let you know how much I love this site. I know you hear this all the time but Thank You for all of the time and work you do to bring people together. I’ll be moving back home next summer, so this makes it awesome, even though I don’t know most people. I am getting messages from relatives that I didn’t even know I had.
Pam Wenstad Lane”78″
Pam, I decided to post this message, even though it was a personal reply to me. I think folks will be interested in hearing of the connections you’ve made and that you will be moving back to ND. Gary

Email address change for Marge Landsverk Fish (57):

HI GARY, Feb. 7

I have been without a computer for 3 weeks and now have a new one.
My new e-mail address is:
I have been missing your e-mails and will have to get back on track now.
The weather in Horicon Wi. today was in the 40′s, just beautiful for Feb. I took my dog for a nice long walk, she gives me a reason.
Thanks for all your work on the e-mails.
Marge(Landsverk) Fish
Reply from Lloyd Awalt (44):
Good Morning Gary: Questions for Sharren and answers to some of her questions in message #361.
Sharren Gottbreth Shen (59) Yes,Sharren their was a Dunseith Livestock Exchange it was a long narrow building sandwiched between the Peace Garden Cafe and Ray Wilson’s Law Office. Yes, it had pictures of dogs playing cards and it was a place where the guys played cards. This group of men celebrated their birthdays together playing cards and having a dinner, these celebrations were held at the depot. Later on the Livestock Exchange became Marie’s Beauty Shop.
The “Smokers” poker card games were big poker games where men from all over came to gamble.
The money raised from holding these games was used by the city to purchase the new fire engine. It was used for other big ticket items needed by the City. These games were held in the basement of the Dunseith City Hall.(I remember there was a disagreement about whether or not it was legal or morally right to hold these games and one of the pastors of the community had them raided.) Hopefully someone can give us more input about this.
The pictures you sent I think were labeled wrong. #2 is a picture of Dale Gottbreth. #3 is also Dale, I do remember when Dale rolled the livestock truck. In 1942 Dale Gottbreth built a warehouse across from our home in Dunseith. The warehouse was used to manufacture Water Pumps and Whet Stones used for sharpening knives etc. This building was later moved out to where Dales is now and is part of the original cafe.
Lloyd Awalt
Hertha Egbert Photo posted by Neola Kofoid Garbe:

Gary,

I’m not sure if Hertha is a Dunseith or Kramer Egbert. I just happened to see this picture last night.

Neola

Neola, The Dunseith and Kramer Egbert’s are all the same family. According to the dunseith book, Jim Egbert, Adrian’s brother, married Hertha Torno from Kramer. They had two children, Vernon & David. Gary
                  Hertha Torno Egbert
                         1909-1996
Hentry was posted in Uncategorized by Gary. Bookmark the permalink.Edit

10/10/2015 (2294)

Gottbreht’s
Reply from Sharron Gottbreht Shen (’59): Watertown, NJ

Dear Gary,

As ever, your web postings are an awaited part of my day. I picked up on Gary Metcalfe’s kind compliment and returned to that entry with information that brother George offered some time ago. Although very sad, I will give the correction here.

The truck-trailer wreck happened not because of ice in that April of 1944, but because of an auto driven at desperate speed from a hill cross road and that barreled into the trailer. Had he waited for just the right vehicle to come along? Dad must have waved down the next passerby to alert authorities. Dad had a 2-floor load of hogs on board; only one suffered a broken leg. You can imagine those happy porkers juking about in total freedom; all were recovered and brought to market.

So Dale’s enlistment date was 14 May 1944; boot camp near St Louis, MO. En-route to Fort Lewis Millitary Base, WA, Dale passed through Devils Lake. Hector and Cecelia Boucher and Alma Boucher Gottbreht were waiting there in Hector’s Ford Coop. Obviously there was a prearranged plan because Dad jumped into the car and said “Let’s get the hell out of here.” They went fishing for 3 days to Lake Shandy. Lucky Dale; AWOL for 3 days meant a few days in the brigg and not the firing squad. Story related to me by Hector’s daughters.

Keep well dear friends and thank you Gary, Sharron

 

====================================
Blog (363) posted on February 7, 2009

02/07/2009

Posted on February 7, 2009

Request from Rod Kalk (61):

Hi Gary,
Please add Lisa Williams Mastvelton to your emails-
to your emails.
We’re enjoying great temperatures in ND.
Thanks, Rod Kalk Class of 1961

Rod, it is my pleasure to add Lisa Williams Mastvelton (82) to our distribution list.

Lisa, you were quite young when I left the Dunseith area, so I don’t remember you all that well, but I do know the Lagerquist’s and the Knutson’s, both extended relatives of yours. Your sister Lori is married to Ray Lagerquist and your daughter, Jenna, is married to Toad Knutson. I don’t know Toad, but I know his grandparents, Norris & Arlene Knutson, well. Toad’s dad, Roger, was just a little tite when I left the country. It’s hard for me to believe, in my mind, that Roger is all grown up and has grown up kids of his own. I guess things didn’t come to a stand still when I left the country. Rod Hiatt filled us all in, with message #333, with the wonderful wedding and reception of your daughter Jenna & Toad. My brother Darrel and his wife Debby told me they also attended their wedding and reception. From all reports, it was a wonderful affair. Gary

Reply from Pam Wenstad Lane (78):

Hi Gary,

Fisrt of all, I would truely like to tell you how much I like this site. I don’t know most of the people,but I like to read all of the history.Thank you for all of your work.I was wondering how I could get ahold of the Prairie Past and or Mountain Memories to read about Fred Morin.Maybe Gary Metcalfe can help me out. I would be grateful.

Pam Wenstad Lane “78″

Pam, You can purchase a copy of the ” Prairie Past and or Mountain Memories” book, on line, from the Dunseith WEB site. This is the Dunseith WEB site linkhttp://www.dunseithnd.com/souvenirs.html

I strongly suggest purchasing a hard cover copy of the is book. The paper back is glued together and in time falls apart. The hard cover copy is bound well and does not come apart. The paper back is a good back up copy for taking pages out of to scan. Gary

Reply from Dick Johnson (68):

Gary and Friends,

In reply to Ginger’s question of a family from Dunseith’s Main Street
that drowned, it was the second wife of Carl Watschke and her son. They
were fishing on Long Lake and got caught in a sudden storm with strong
winds which overturned the boat. Mabel and Larry Nordquist drowned. Carl
managed to keep afloat and Larry’s sister Joy Nordquist swam to the
shore, although she was not a swimmer. The reason I am aware of what
happened that day in 1957 is that Joy later married my dad’s brother,
Cliff Johnson, in 1960. The terrible tragedy of that day has haunted my
aunt throughout her life. She and Cliff don’t have email and hopefully
won’t even hear about this message from those of you who do. I hope this
answers your question. Thanks Gary!

Dick

From Marth Lamb Schepp (68):

Hi to all,

We were just to Minot last night to meet our newest Gandson. Daxton Edwin Schepp, son of Karson and Kristen Marie Casavant Schepp also the grandson of Rick and Denice Casavant of Rolette. Daxton was born on Feb 4 at 6:40 P.M. 8 lbs. 3oz. and 201/2 inches long. He is our 7th grandchild, 3 being boys and 4 girls. The oldest will be 9 in March and until Wed. the youngest just turned 2. They are so fun. We have two grandsons from Rugby staying for 2 nights this weekend. Best say goodbye as we have a game of Yahtzee waiting. Thanks for all that everyone has does, especially Gary for keeping this going. Martha Lamb Schepp (68)

Reply from Bonnie Awalt Houle (56):

Dear Gary,

Your web sight sound fascinating, you are so intelligent, you and Billy Grimme. Too bad Conley Grimme isn’t still around he too was very intelligent with all this tech stuff.

I have let my secretary job slack off as I’ve been running around with my Grandkids at NDSU, had a grand time, but now it’s back to getting Lloyd on line again.

Bonnie, Thank you so much for the nice words, however, Bill is the guy with all the smarts. I discovered that it takes more time than brains to put together a ‘simple’ WEB page. Gary

Lloyd Awalt’s (44) reply:

Hello to Gary Metcalfe,

Gary mentioned the time my Dad was up at your place and came across the field carrying a child piggy back. It wasn’t me it was my brother Bill. Everything else you remembered was correct. Keep the messages coming.

Lloyd Awalt

Reply from Diane Berg Rheault (79):

Gary, the picture of the soldier in this email……… When I looked at it, at first glance, it reminded me of one of the Tooke kids (of Kenneth and Nettie(Knox) Tooke). Wondering if it could be some relative either on the Tooke side or the Knox side.

Just a thought….Diane (Berg) Rheault

Posted by Neola Kofoid Garbe:

Folks, Justene Metcalfe’s parents are Shannon & Debbie (Salmonson) Metcalfe. Her grandparents are Cliff/Lottie Metcalfe & Harlan/LaDonna Salmonson. Gary


Posted by Glen Williams (52): junnermt@msn.com

Dear alumni and friends,

Thomas J. Clifford
1921-2009

The entire University of North Dakota alumni family is grieving the loss of one of our most beloved members. Thomas J. Clifford, one of the University’s and state’s most iconic and dedicated alumni passed away in his home on February 4. He was 87 years old. My heart goes out to Tom’s wife, Gayle, and the entire Clifford family during this difficult time.

As a UND faculty member, the youngest-serving dean and longest-serving president, Clifford touched the lives of nearly everyone he met. On a weekly basis, I never fail to meet or visit with someone who has an inspiring “Tom Clifford” story. In having many of these memorable conversations with the young and old alike, it’s clear Tom’s impact spans generations. He was a caring and compassionate man who took chances on students and inspired people to succeed. Serving as one of the University’s greatest presidents, the “Clifford Era” from 1971-92 was a time of steadfast growth and success at UND. Clifford was a mentor, a confident leader, a savvy businessman, and, more than anything, a loyal friend and alumnus of the University. No one in our illustrious 125-year history has positively impacted more lives in a variety of ways. He was our “renaissance man”, a war hero and a leader across several disciplines.

It is an understatement to say Tom’s passing leaves a void that cannot be replaced. He will be dearly missed on so many levels, both professionally and personally by thousands. Please keep the Clifford family in your thoughts and prayers during this trying time.

I am certain many of you have stories and memories about Tom you would like to share. Please visit www.undalumni.org, where we have set up a tribute in his honor. Some of these stories may also be included in the May Alumni Review, which will include a tribute to Clifford’s life. You may also contribute a story about Clifford for inclusion in the Alumni Review by sending it to alumnireview@undalumni.net I know his family and friends will enjoy reading your fond memories of their loved one.

Sincerely,

Tim O’Keefe, ’71
Executive Vice President and CEO
UND Alumni Association and UND Foundation

UND Alumni Association
3100 University Ave. Stop 8157
Grand Forks, ND 58201-8157
(800) 543-8764 or (701) 777-2611
Fax: (701) 777-4054
www.undalumni.org | www.und.edu

Subscribe/Unsubscribe | Privacy Notice | Contact

 

10/9/2015 (2293)

Happy Birthday Darrel Abrahamson (’68): St. John, ND
Abrahamson, Darryl 2293

 

Happy Birthday Theresa Sivertson Delikat: Box Elder, SD
Sivertson, Delikat, Theresa 2293

1944 Note Dame Academy photo
Reply from Cheryl Larson Dakin ($B!G(B71):  Bedford, TX 

Thanks for posting. I should have double checked my spelling!
Cheryl

PS I hope Ginger iced her hand. I know how much that can hurt. From the description of her fall, I’m glad it wasn’t any worse!

Posted by Neola Kofoid Garbe:  Bottineau & Minot, ND
Olynda Pigeon | 1929 – 2015

Olynda Pigeon
Pigeon, Olynda 2293
Born: June 21, 1929

Died: October 07, 2015

OLYNDA PIGEON
Olynda Pigeon, age 86 of Dunseith, died at her home on Wednesday, October 7, 2015. Funeral services will be held on Friday, October 9, 2015 at 10:00 A.M. in the St. Michaels Catholic Church of Dunseith. Burial will be in the Riverside Cemetery also of Dunseith. A wake will be held on Thursday, beginning at 6:00 P.M. with a prayer service at 7:00 P.M. in the church.

Olynda was born to David and Eva (Kraft) Eurich on June 21st, 1929 near Dunseith. She was raised in the Dunseith area and attended Dunseith, Curry, and Siem schools there. On May 31st, 1951, she married Ydola Pigeon at Dunseith. They made their home on the Pigeon farm where Olynda helped on the farm, worked at The Pigeon Store, and raised her children. She was employed at San Haven from 1965-1987, and later at Pemstar Corporation until her retirement. Ydola passed away on October 8, 2012. She had continued to make Dunseith her home.

The Pigeon farm was a frequent stop for area farmers, friends, and family due to Olynda’s exceptional hospitality. Guests were always welcome. Olynda was an excellent cook and baker and no one ever left her house hungry. She loved flowers of any kind and was always happy to receive a bouquet of the first crocuses or wild tiger lilies from her grandchildren in the spring. She was a self-taught quilter and her beautiful hand-made quilts were a prized gift to her loved ones for birthdays, weddings and baby showers. She enjoyed playing cards with her family and for many years was also a weekly whist player at the Rolette, Dunseith, and Bottineau Senior Centers. Olynda was a tender hearted, loving mother, grandmother and great-grandmother who made holidays and Sunday dinners so special for her loved ones.

Olynda is survived by her daughter Colette Schimetz of Bottineau; son, Marc Pigeon of Dunseith, grandchildren John Schimetz of Bottineau, Jennifer (Craig) Zachmeier of Rugby, Matthew (Amy) Schimetz of Bottineau, William (Raelynn) Schimetz of Richardton, Daniel Schimetz of Bismarck, Kaitlyn Pederson (Andy) of Bottineau; Andria (Steve) Miller of Devils Lake, Nicole Pigeon of Fargo, Jessica Pigeon of Minot, Christopher Pigeon of Dunseith, Samantha Pigeon of Rolette; Great-grandchildren Trenton and Keelie McCloud, Riley and Bailey Zachmeier, Daunte Nadeau, MiKayla Tyson, Ally Schimetz, and John Schimetz; by her sisters Marie Beachler of Bottineau, and Eva Paulson of Rugby.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; brother, David Eurich; sisters, Erma Peltier, Irene Kilichowski, Frieda Reisig, and Betty Nerpel; and son-in-law Reid Schimetz.

Jack Flynn Memories
From Allen Richard (’65):   Midland, MI

A few things— First Jack Flynn.  I didn’t have a lot of interaction with him— but when I did– it was fun.  I loved his quick wit.

Next:  Notre Dame Academy– I went there as a first grader because my parents didn’t want me to transition from Currie School summer school to “regular” winter school.  1953-54 was the last year for Currie and my first grade at ND.  I was in a class that included 1st and 2nd grades– I think 13 kits total.  Our teacher was Sister Albert Marie.  She was amazing.  Others in the classroom included Rene, Joe and Gerald Casavant; Joanne and Doreen Houle and Angela Berube. I had 3 cousins with me in the room.  Upper classmen included Houles — al the way to Keith I think, and all the Casavants older than Joe and Gerald — All the way to Paul I think.  Most memorable was Carol Leonard — younger sister of my aunt Carmen (Leonard) Richard.  Even as a first grader I thought she was gorgeous!

That’s my story and I’m stickin’ to it.

 

Posted by Neola Kofoid Garbe: Bottineau & Minot, ND
Bjornseth, Ralph 2293

Posted by Neola Kofoid Garbe: Bottineau & Minot, ND
San Haven 2294

====================================
Blog (362) posted on February 6, 2009

02/06/2009

Dunseith Alumni WEB site:
Folks,
I am in the process of developing a Dunseith Alumni WEB site. This WEB site is not intended, in any way shape or form, to replace our daily email dialog. In doing that I think we’d quickly loose the comradery that we have developed. We still prefer for folks to request to be added our email distribution, rather than just going on line to view the posted daily messages.
I am not posting any personal info on this site. I strip all the email addresses and other personal info when posting the daily messages. I will post each days message as we go along and back fit all the others as time permits. I have posted the Alaska cruise and the Seattle Dunseith Alumni reunion on this sight as well. Please provide me with any items you’d like posted.
Gary
Thank you from Carmen Leonard Richard (Rolette), Bryan Schimetz’s aunt:

Thank you to everyone who sent birthday cards to Bryan Schimetz at the Good Sam in Bottineau. He was quite surprised, and appreciated them very much. It was a day brightner for him to know that so many people cared.
From Ginger LaRocque Poitra (65):
Gary,
I remember hearing of a family drowning, they (if I recall correctly)
lived in a house on Main Street in Dunseith. Does anyone remember this
happening? I seem to remember that they hadn’t lived in Dunseith for very
long. I always wanted to know what happened. My parents didn’t discuss
these types of happenings with us, in our day we left the room when adults
were speaking, so I guess I overheard parts of their conversation. I
could be totally wrong on all counts. I don’t suppose I was very old.
Ginger(65)
Reply from Gary Metcalfe (57):
It doesn’t get any better, town kid with farm experience. That old machinery had a lure for a kid that was all consuming and there were lots of three legged dogs. I knew it was Joe Lagimodiere when you mentioned the bib overalls.
Dunseith seemed like a larger town to me when you had shanty town and I do remember some the people who lived there. Joe, also Louis Bergan, Ann Grady, Slim Wallin, I am not sure when Axel Johnson moved there, Tommy Counts, Van Counts and many more.

When we talk about people like Fred Morin, we can’t completely appreciate what a job that was, he had to know and understand the bootleggers and the people that were not allowed to drink in public. Not much backup for a law man in those days. By all means like Wyatt Earp, a hero.

Great job on the pictures Sharren Shen.
Gary Metcalfe

Correction to yesterday’s picture posted by Kenny Nerpel (65):
Gary,

The picture was actually taken in Denver. I forgot to include
that when I sent the message.

Kenny

10/6/2015 (2292)

Jack Flynn Memories
From Rob Olson (’79):  Walla Walla

Gary-

I have been at a seminar for the last 5 days and finally caught up with your blog.  I am saddened by the loss of Jack Flynn-a true man of honor and respect.  I see my brothers have written, but I feel compelled to also relate my feelings for him for he set a course for my life without even knowing it—or maybe he did?   Living across the street from Jack and Minnie was a great blessing. If I was hanging out at the house playing in the yard when Jack got home he would invite me over and usually feed me some ice cream. We didn’t have it in our house and I think he knew that. His family treated me so well and I am appreciative to this day.

 

When there was a baseball game out of town Jack would invite me to go with him.  He made sure that I was appropriately dressed and well behaved.   He took other kids to games too. We would pile in the box of his pickup and off we would go.   He loved baseball and gave me every opportunity to watch and be associated with it. Later when I played baseball for Mayville State, like many Dunseith boys did before me, I came home for a weekend when I ran into Jack.  He knew I was playing at Mayville but wanted to know what my plans were. I told him I was planning on being a teacher and a baseball coach and we talked of  other things.  As we parted he looked at me and told me he was proud of me.  I felt like he gave me a million dollars!  He never said a discouraging word to me.    Every person would be lucky to have a Jack Flynn in their life.

Rob Olson

Randy Kelly
Reply from Sybil Johnson: Minot, ND

Randy was Augie’s cousin and very well liked. I enjoyed visiting him, when we were in St. Paul back in 1984, when Kelly was killed and he visited us, when we lived in Minot.

Sybil Johnson

1944 Note Dame Academy
Posted by Cheryl Larson Dakin (’71): Bedford, TX 

This is the senior class 1944 Note Dame Academy. From the top it’s Edward Vandal, my Uncle Virgil Richard, Theodore Bower, Evelyn Berube, next riw is Rose Marie Vandal, Lila Tennancour, Delores Becker, Muriel Bergeron. Then my mom Verdellis Richard, (white collar, arms crossed) then on the first row Elaine Dionne, Libbey Henry, Crystal King, Muriel Garceau. Can you please post this on the blog for me? I’m on my cell and for some reason my emails don’t go through. Thanks Gary!
Note Dame Academy  2292

 

Ginger LaRocque Poitra Fell and hurt her hand
Posting from Ginger LaRocque Poitra (’65):  Belcourt, ND

I just wanted to let you know that I fell Thursday,  October 1st. I was trying to decorate for Halloween

I was on a step stool and had just put Winnie-the-Pooh on top of a cabinet,

I preceded to get down carrying an object (angels) I was going to switch out for another object.

My tennis shoe got caught on the rubber of the step of the stool, I began falling backward unable to catch myself.

I kept going and going then I finally landed on my buttocks very very hard and then to my back,

still carrying the angels which were kinda heavy.

The way I was carrying the angel statue made of ceramic,

of which I was still holding very tightly to,

part of it was what hit the top of my left hand.

This caused my blood vessels to do whatever happens to them when hit with a force like it did, made my hand turn blue and swell.

Ginger
hands

====================================

Blog (361) posted on February 5, 2009

Posted on February 5, 2009

 

 

From Ginger(LaRocque)Poitra (65):

Gary,
I didn’t receive e-mail number 359. I sure have been enjoying all the
stories of times gone by. We all need to remember and pass our memories
on to our children and they to their children, and so on. My son who
lives in Texas was telling me how he tells his sons his remembrance of his
grandparents, whom he loved so much. I had said to him we live and we
die, no one remembers. That isn’t true is it? You all have proved that
here on this blog. You all remember a lot of people and the stories you
all tell are so invigorating to read. We owe Gary Stokes so much for
starting this, and including us all. Thank you Gary you are one of a
kind! and you are appreciated. Many Many thanks.Ginger(LaRocque)Poitra (65)

Ginger, Thank you so much for the very nice compliment. You are such a sweetheart. If I remember correctly, I think you and also a few others were a bit nervous with the thoughts of attending our 2007 class of 65 reunion. I think those thoughts were quickly diminished when you arrived at our pre-reunion breakfast the day before our formal reunion. We had a large turn out for that breakfast too. I will forever cherish that week of my life with the reunion of so many folks I had not seen for nearly 42 years. Like so many said, it was as though we had never parted. Gary

Reply from Marge (Longie) Langan Wilcox (Ron, Willy’s & Wally’s sister):

Hello from Washington state

Gary I certainly enjoy your tidbits everyday.
I am glad you have added me to your lists.
although I have been gone from Dunseith since 1956.

I remember Elaine Watkins very well.
she was in Agnes Berg’s room in the Dunseith school.

that’s the year the boys were burning the girls dresses.
and I happen to be the target by my Brother Wally.
our mom was mad at him.

margelanganwilcox

Marge, I had Agnes Berg for my 3rd grade teacher up at Ackworth. That would have been about school year 55/56. I remember her as being such a nice lady. Gary

Reply to Gary from Eileen Egbert Spitzer (Adrian Egert’s Granddaughter):

Thank you for the information on my father. It was very interesting. Since so many are gone, so much

will have been lost. The date of my fathers death was listed wrong in the chart. He was killed in

Germany May 2, 1945. WWII. My mother never remarried and raised my brother and I alone. She

died in October, 2007 at the age of 94. Eileen Egbert Spitzer.

Eileen, I had your dad’s info right on my combined class list, but it was wrong on the solo class list. Those dates on the Solo class list (1939) were for your Dad’s uncle, James, Adrian’s brother. He was born 12/18/93 and died 9/15/68. I was unable to locate your dad’s info at the time I was putting his class list together, so I thought his uncle was him. Your cousin, Lois Lilleby Fielding is the one that told us about your dad. You dad was only 25 years old when he was killed in WWII. What a sacrifice he made for our country and you too, for loosing him so early in your life. Gary

Egbert James Born December 8, 1919-Died May 2, 1945 Deceased

From Kenny Nerpel (65):

Gary,

It ain’t Paris and it ain’t Hong Kong, but it ain’t bad! There
seems to be something about fast food and the class of ’65.

Kenny

Kenny Nerpel in Denver, Co.

Bill Grimme

in Paris France Gary Stokes in Hong Kong


Kenny, You are looking mighty fine. Like Bill says, those Big Mac’s hit the spot.

Maybe we can get a few more pictures, from around the country, to add to our collection of McDonald’s.

Gary

Reply & George Gottbreht pictures from Sharren Gottbreht Shen (59):

Two for Lloyd Awalt, Gary. I sure look forward to his every entry; such fantastic recall that awakens so many happy memories.

George Gottbreht had an office on the east side of Main St: Dunseith Livestock Exchange. I think it must have been located near or in the Wilson Law offices? I believe the title was lettered on the window. Today I think of it as his private card room! Every time I would stop there looking for a nickle or dime, Grandpa and company would be playing cards. I can still smell the smoke of his cigars. The walls had several prints of dogs playing poker, some had expressions of chagrin, some sniggering, some surprised. The dogs were all smoking cigars too! Grandpa was there from early 40′s till his death in ’51. Jim Gottbreht told me of the Exchange sales ring and stock pens where Dale’s is today and I presume that is where most of their business was conducted.

Jack Hosmer told me about the Business Men’s Meeting held every month on Main St. I thought it might have been at Kadry’s. Any member celebrating a birthday that month would receive a new Stetson. Perhaps Lloyd or others could expand on this club.

I remember dad going to every “Smoker” held in town. I have the impression that these games were held in winter. I know my Uncle August Dionne would come from Thorne so I surmise all players were welcome. I wonder where they were held? My picture is rather dim but I will post it anyway.

Sharron

Sharron’s memo for the pictures:

Notice the white slats and black lettering of the semi trailer in the background of George Gottbreht picture taken around 1940. White proved impractical no doubt, but it is the same truck/trailer used by the Dunseith Livestock Exchange of George Gottbreht and his son Dale Gottbreht to transport livestock from rual Dakota to Fargo. Transport work and a hog farm out of the Grand Forks area defered Dale’s enlistment; when the semi was overturned on icy roads 1943/44, Dale was summonded for active service. Dad liked company for the long hawls to the Fargo Sales Ring and I was chosen one summer when about 8 yrs old. This all new experience to view the groomed animals in the tiered sales theater and hear the auctioneer stutter was amazing. Sales must have gone well beause dad treated us to a case of Bing cherries for the trip home; yes, a few extra stops on the way. The noon meal at Dale’s home was a silent affair except for radio livestock and feed reports.

George Gottbreht – about 1940

George Gottbreht – about 1940

Gottbreht overturned semi trailier 1943/44

 

Message from Neola Kofoid Garbe:

Gary,

I’ve been meaning to send an email, thanking the person who sent the pictures of Minnie Flynn’s birthday party, to you. Alice Vandal Leonard planned to attend, but because of the weather, she didn’t make it. I forwarded your newsletter that included pictures of Minnie’s birthday, to Alice. She was so happy to receive them. As you know, Alice doesn’t care to receive all the newsletters, so I try to forward the ones I think she might enjoy seeing. Alice was one of the four ladies who wrapped caramels to set on the registration desk at Frozen Fingers Festival, Sleep Inn in Minot on February 13-15. Dick and Brenda Johnson/Ron Hett will be performing at this event.

Thanks again.

Neola

eBay info for Bill Hosmer’s friends book “The Birds Were Silver Then” posted by Neola Garbe:

In a riveting collection of first-person accounts, The Birds Were Silver Then captures the idealism and tragic missteps of America’s earliest air missions over North Vietnam. Told in revealing detail by the pilots who survived, the book is both a testament to their heroism and a cautionary tale for our nation.

Read what people are saying about Lowell Peterson’s new book….

Dr Peterson’s collection of essays and first-person interviews provides a clear overview of our nation’s often misguided Vietnam policies and a detailed account of the bravery of those charged with carrying our those policies – often to tragic ends. Whether you lived through this era in our history, or were too young to remember it, this book brings to life a critical juncture in the air war and honors those who served its cause.”

Melvin R. Laird
Secretary of Defense 1969-1973

“The Viewtnam War waas a political disaster. Lest we forget, this book remimds us that those who served in that war served honorably and heroically.”

Robert F. Froehlke
Secretart of the Army 1971-1973

“Those of us who were venturing into a new ear of pain and destruction grew closer together and gained stupendours respect and trust for one another. That is the underlying lesson I became aware of while we were losing our virginity in combat and experiencing the exhilaration which come from being shot at.”

William J. Hosmer
Colonel, USAF (Ret.)

10/5/2015 (2291)

Correction: Kenny Hill, not Kenny Hiatt
From Lyle Olson (’75):  West Fargo, ND

Gary, in my comments about Jack Flynn I mentioned that Jack hayed with Wally and Kenny Hiatt. It was actually Kenny Hill And Wally Hiatt.  My apologies to Kenny Hiatt, if there is a Kenny Hiatt.

Thanks for the correction Lyle,
I was racking my brain trying to figure out who Kenny Hiatt was. As a kid I thought I knew all the Hiatt’s down to my generation.
Gary
Reply from Mel Kuhn (’70):  St. John, ND

Gary,

I figure that Larry and Henry Hackman must have made it back to Bismarck from their camping trip to Rugby. I say this because Larry is back on his computer. He told me that they found a really nice new camping spot there in Rugby for their campers. He said it was right there in front of the Shopko store. Nice and flat with lines painted for where you were supposed to park. He said they were a little stingy with the size of the spots though and there weren’t many trees. Just that one tall skinny one with a light bulb on top. He said the light was kind of handy though when you wanted to kick back in your lawn chair and have a beer after dark. Dicky Johnson should be getting home from his vacation on Sunday also. He’s been gone to that Norwegian thing down there in Minot all week. Da Hoste Fest or something like that they call it. I should be able to tell when he gets home, there’ll be that unmistakable odor of Lutefisk coming from the West. I hope you can understand this I have a heck of a time writing in Norwegian. Well y’all have a good day now y’ear. Later.

Mel

 

Posting From Allen Houle (’67): Villages, FL.

From a skinny kid who attended an elementary boarding school called Notre Dame Academy, and attended middle and high school in Dunseith. Put myself thru college and had a great high school teaching/coaching career that lasted 36 years. I’m retired now and spending my winters in Florida at a place called the Villages. It’s a retirement community 50 miles north of Orlando. People here call it Paradise and it certainly is, but I like to think of it as Disneyland for grownups. It’s Disneyland every day. So many activities here that you can’t possible do them all. I’m playing a little softball, bowling and of course golfing. I feel very blessed. What a country!!!!!!
House

Allen Houle  Inducted into the Athletic Hall of Fame
Posted by Neola Kofoid Garbe on 11/27/2011
Houle Houle-1

 

====================================
Blog (360) posted on February 4, 2009

02/04/2009

Posted on February 4, 2009

Bill Hosmer’s (48) reply for book purchase:

Gary, I spoke with my friend Lowell Peterson who put the book together to be sure the info was current and correct. The book, “The Birds Were Silver Then” is on E Bay, for those who use that format. It is soon to be on Amazon, but not yet. It is possible to order it from his address which follows: PETERSON HOUSE, 2627 BEECHWOOD APPLETON, WISCONSIN 54911. AT THIS ALTERNATIVE, THE COST IS $25.00 PER BOOK PLUS $2.50 FOR SHIPPING. MAKE CHECKS PAYABLE TO PETERSON HOUSE. HE NEEDS TO KNOW THE ADDRESS OF THE BUYER PLUS A DAYTIME PHONE NUMBER. Gary, your help in this is appreciated. Doc Peterson told me to pass on his gratitude for what you have done. Me too, Gary. Cheers, Bill Hosmer

From Clark Crum (54):

Gary,

I was away for 3 weeks and enjoyed catching up on the e-mails.

Jerry Williams was a good quaterback in Football, his fake handoff to Gary Morgan (who was one of the best 6 man. players in the state) and Jerry had the ball hid and he calmly walked the opposite direction and made the touchdown before anyone knew what was going on.

I did see Viola Hobbs Zigler in Pick City, ND where her brother had a store and service station. Viola left Dunseith on graduation night and visited again. It was great visitng her and Dick, she still had the personilty and spirit.

We have the opportunity to visit with Gary and Pat Woodford in the summer time and enjoy some golf.

Does anyone know where Jimmy Foote is?

Clark Crum (54)

Clark, I have a James Footit listed for the class of 51 that is deceased. Could this be the same guy you are referring too? Gary

Footit James Born October 31, 1933Died October 16, 2006 Deceased 51

Reply from Bonnie Awalt Houle (56):

Dear Gary,

I remember Joe Lagimodier, as the gentleman that drove the team of horses pulling a sickle mower cutting grass throughout town. He had a 3 legged dog that followed him everywhere. He used to tease me that if I continued to follow him everywhere I would end up missing a leg also. Then one day when I followed him home his wife gave me a glass of lemonade and told me not to listen to “Old Joe’s foolishness”, and I could follow him if I wanted to. Joe kept his horses in our pasture. I don’t remember what he looked like except for the bib overalls, and the stories he always told and the cookies he shared. His home was spotless and his wife really nice. They lived at the end of the dirt road that ran along our pasture to the road leading to Lake Shutte.

Bonnie Awalt Houle (56)

Reply from Gary Metcalfe (57):

I think you (Susan & Paula Fassett) have the gift of writing a good story and I think possibly you have a treasure of history from your ancestors. I always look forward to stories about people worth writing a book about, as I think your grandparents were. They lived in a glorious time when people had to rely on each other for so much, I am sure they fit into Rabbit City Lake area very well.

By the way, Eileen it wouldn’t have been hard to write a book about Adrian Egbert. Most of us that are 70 years old never knew Adrian when he was young. I could never imagine the amount of hard work that Adrian did early on. My dad knew Adrian’s intrepid nature well, and his bad breaks.

Kind of ironic how we keep going back to Rabbit City Lake where Adrian’s sister drowned in the lake along with my Aunt Lily back in the early days.

By the way Janice, I appreciated your story about Corinne and I know she surely enjoyed going to the movies.

Gary Metcalfe

From Dick Johnson (68):

Gary and Friends,

Gary Metcalfe mentioned Fred Morin who lived to 104 years of age. He
spent the last few years of his life living in the farmyard of his grand
daughter, Jeannie Azure Domben, near ‘Yellow Corners’ about 10 miles
south of Dunseith. He was interviewed by a researcher from the ND State
Historical Society in about 1975. When Jeannie found out about my
interest in all history of our area she allowed me to listen to the
taped interview. Having lived in the area since the time of the Civil
War, he certainly saw a magnitude of change in his lifetime. He and his
father hauled freight from Devils Lake to St. John and slept on the
ground on the two day trip. He remembers when the first few white men
began to show up in the area. They started plowing up the prairie and
things began to change drastically. He remembers the first store, owned
by Martineau’s in St. John. This is where most of the people did their
trading. He said the buffalo were gone but he and ‘the old man’ picked
up buffalo bones and hauled them to Devils Lake to sell and then
brought freight back. Fred’s dad started to farm but grain was so cheap
they fed it to the horses instead. He remembered oats being 10 cents a
bushel. All the towns in the area were just little outposts with a few
buildings. One of the most interesting memories of Fred’s was being
young and seeing the devastating fire that burned much of the Turtle
Mountains. The interview is quite long and is very captivating to the
listener. It is probably the most interesting ‘one on one’ interview
ever done and recorded, of anyone that age from this area. It might be
possible to get a copy of this tape from the ND State Historical Society
or maybe even from Jeannie Domben at our request. Thanks Gary!

Dick

Crystal, I am so sorry I forgot to attach your pictures with your message yesterday, so I’m reposting today with pictures. Gary

Reply from Crystal Fassett Andersen (70):

Well,since veryone else added their two cents,I thought I better add mine. What I remember about Elaine:…my boys (Aaron & Tyler Gunderson) thought of her as Aunt Laney. She never forgot my birthday or theirs and she made a wonderful angel food cake,always had a Knock,Knock joke,scratched your back and loved to “thumb” wrestle. She may have been mean when she was younger but I never saw it. She loved all our babies and would sit and hold them for hours.She would get so excited when she saw us coming to their house ^& she would be half down the road to meet us. She adored my Mom Irene and called her daily on the phone. She was a gift from God to our family. I also remember Corinne Leonard. She and Edna went many places with my Mom and loved to touch you and would smile that big smile of hers. I am attaching a few photo. Some I thought you “boys” would love and my favorite of some of out “aunts” and cousins. I saw Lorraine Neameyer Haas and she commented on how she didn’t realize how we were related to so many people. We had huge family picnics annually at he Peace garden and Uncle Ernie Amundson’s and I always thought everyone who came was a relative. As I got older I now see ,that in our family, if you show up at a picnic even once,You’re family!! So to all my extended family in the Turtle Mts. And everywhere…”Thanks for the Memories!!” Love and Blessings Crystal Fassett Andersen 1st picture; Dad Bill Fassett batting against Rolla at the Rolla fair June 1951 2nd : Grandpa Wilmar “Pappy” Fassett and Harry Fassett June 1953 3rd: Bill Fassett shooting,John Hill,Elvin Haagenson, Kids are (I think) Charlie Carbonneau,Gary Wenstad & Janet Haagenson (correct me Sisiter Sue ,if I’m wrong) 4th: Irene Fassett holding Paula,Murl Hill holding Brenda,Elaine & Helen Watkins,front: Ann Carbonneau,Susan &Crystal(in bonnet) Fassett,Charlie Carbonneau & Grandma Gudrun Watkins holding Marise Hoover.

Bill Fassett batting against Rolla at the Rolla fair June 1951

Wilmar “Pappy” Fassett and Harry Fassett June 1953

Bill Fassett shooting, John Hill, Elvin Haagenson,

Kids are (I think)

Charlie Carbonneau, Gary Wenstad & Janet Haagenson

Irene Fassett holding Paula, Murl Hill holding Brenda, Elaine & Helen Watkins

front: Ann Carbonneau, Susan &Crystal (in bonnet) Fassett, Charlie Carbonneau &

Grandma Gudrun Watkins holding Marise Hoover.

Posted by Neola Kofoid Garbe: neolag@min.midco.net

10/3/2015 (2290)

Condolences to the Flynn family
From Paula Fassett (’71):  White Bear Lake, MNMy condolences to the Flynn family.  I can’t write a better tribute to Jack Flynn than Lyle and Don Olson did.  What wonderful words – and reflective of the two wonderful men who wrote them.  I’m sure Jack would be proud.

Paula I. Fassett

Reply from Dale Pritchard (’63):  Leesville, LA

My special thanks to Larry Hackman for providing the wonderful pictures of Jim and Ruby Birkland and their family.  In 1965 we crossed paths quite regularly while working on the Grand Forks missile sites.  As happens, we went our separate ways and I never saw him again.  Another picture Larry provided was that of Robert Rivard and his family.  I knew Robert and Helen in high school and there again, I haven’t seen them since.  Gary, you have the personality required to do the job (or hobby) that you’re doing.  Thanks for your efforts it making it work so well!!

Dale Pritchard

Thanks for the nice comments Dale.
Gary

 

====================================

Blog (359) posted on February 3, 2009

02/03/2009

Question for Bill Hosmer:
I have been asked how to go about purchasing the Book “The Birds Were Silver Then” written by your friend Lowell Peterson. Can you provide us with that info once again? I have the book, compliments of you. There is an address and email address on the copyright page, but I’m not sure if those are correct anymore. It’s a really good reading hard cover book all about the air war over North Viet Nam of which you were a big part of and are mentioned numerous times throughout the book. Being a career Air Force pilot, you were Senior and the lead for your group for all the air strikes you performed. The old saying, “Rank has it’s privileges” may not have been so true with the air strikes over Viet Nam.
Thanks,
Gary
From Ivy Eller Robert (74):
Hi Gary…..Hope all is well!

This is for Janice Leonard Workman:

Janice…I remember your sister Corinne. I believed she loved to play cards and board games. I remember when I was little, a would tag along with my sister Carol (sometimes Bonnie) and we would go visit Corinne. We had a great time with her, she loved company. I remember, she had a crush on someone ( I don’t recall who it was) and Carol would tease her about him, she would laugh and blush. She was so sweet. I have fond memories of her……..I can still see her in my “minds-eye” laughing and playing games!

Ivy Eller Robert

From sharron Gottbreht Shen (59):
Hello Gary,

The family of Donald Sharratt [11 Jan 1931-1 Feb 2009] asked that I would inform friends of his passing. Don was the adopted son of Erwin and Leah Boucher. Don did not complete high school but would have been in the class of ’48. He enlisted in the Korean War and worked as a mechanic; skills he used in lifelong service. The family asks that any memorials be made to Disabled Veterans.

Don was an avid genealogist and enormous help to me researching the Boucher and Casavant families. Always spoke with great fondness of his many Edward Boucher and Sharratt cousins. I will miss his many phone calls over the years since 1982. Bonnie McGibbon, Don’s beloved wife of more than 20 years will share expressions of sympathy with his several children and grandchildren.

Bonnie L. McGibbon, 6921 N Montezuma Dr, Tucson, AZ 85718

Reply from Tom Hagen (51):
Hi Gary, Just a quick reply to Pam
Wenstad Lane.(78) My name is Tom Hagen and I am first cousin of your
Dad,Oscar Wenstad and your grandma Anna and my father Tom were brother
and sister. I would visit your home when you kids were little and even
stayed with you for a couple days when there was a snowstorm!!! Cousin
Tom Hagen, 51
Reply from Dick Johnson (68):
Gary and Friends,

Today I got an email from Linda Johnson Juntunen in Rolla. She said her
husband Dale remembered our address in Grand Forks was 2029 2nd Ave N,
not 2022 2nd Ave N as I said. He lived there with several of us in
’70-’71 and has a great memory! I hope he doesn’t spread any ‘rumors’
about the old ‘Sugar Shack’, as it was called. Just a bunch of decent
guys doing the things that nice guys do! It really wouldn’t bother me,
Dale, if your memory is a bit faded! Thanks Dale and Linda! Thanks again
Gary!

Dick

New email address for Marty Spriggs (former teacher):
We did change our email address.
New address:
Thanks for everything you do.
Take care, Marty
Reply from Crystal Fassett Andersen (70):
Well,since veryone else added their two cents,I thought I better add mine. What I remember about Elaine:…my boys (Aaron & Tyler Gunderson) thought of her as Aunt Laney. She never forgot my birthday or theirs and she made a wonderful angel food cake,always had a Knock,Knock joke,scratched your back and loved to “thumb” wrestle. She may have been mean when she was younger but I never saw it. She loved all our babies and would sit and hold them for hours.She would get so excited when she saw us coming to their house ^& she would be half down the road to meet us. She adored my Mom Irene and called her daily on the phone. She was a gift from God to our family. I also remember Corinne Leonard. She and Edna went many places with my Mom and loved to touch you and would smile that big smile of hers. I am attaching a few photo. Some I thought you “boys” would love and my favorite of some of out “aunts” and cousins. I saw Lorraine Neameyer Haas and she commented on how she didn’t realize how we were related to so many people. We had huge family picnics annually at he Peace garden and Uncle Ernie Amundson’s and I always thought everyone who came was a relative. As I got older I now see ,that in our family, if you show up at a picnic even once,You’re family!! So to all my extended family in the Turtle Mts. And everywhere…”Thanks for the Memories!!” Love and Blessings Crystal Fassett Andersen 1st picture; Dad Bill Fassett batting against Rolla at the Rolla fair June 1951 2nd : Grandpa Wilmar “Pappy” Fassett and Harry Fassett June 1953 3rd: Bill Fassett shooting,John Hill,Elvin Haagenson, Kids are (I think) Charlie Carbonneau,Gary Wenstad & Janet Haagenson (correct me Sisiter Sue ,if I’m wrong) 4th: Irene Fassett holding Paula,Murl Hill holding Brenda,Elaine & Helen Watkins,front: Ann Carbonneau,Susan &Crystal(in bonnet) Fassett,Charlie Carbonneau & Grandma Gudrun Watkins holding Marise Hoover
Reply from Neola Kofoid Garbe:
Hi Gary,
I’m enjoying the wonderful/loving stories about Elaine Watkins. The pictures of Elaine when she was “little” are adorable and precious. I remember her as she looks in the picture where she and Irene are dancing. I didn’t know Elaine well, but I felt so bad when she passed away. If my memory is correct, I met Elaine at a get-together at the Rendahl Church may years ago. I can’t remember if it was a New Year’s Eve event, or it is was after some other event. I remember we played “board games”. Orvin Hagen was there, of course (I can still picture him laughing/giving directions/entertaining us.), as were Barbara and Bobby Bott, Mickey and Neva Haagenson. I’m sure there were many others, too (Gary/Karen Wenstad?), but these are the ones I remember. That’s probably the night I met these people. Mickey and I didn’t see each other often through the years, but we were friends the last 25 years,or so, of her life. I see Barbara often when I visit Mom at Good Samaritan.
Neola
Message/Picture from Bonnie Awalt Houle (56):
Dear Gary, In answer to Bobby Hosmer; Bobby I too remember the day Elaine was struck, not a pleasant sight. Scared the heck out of me and I gave Miss. Eggy a healthy distance after that. Elaine loved to swing, you had to race like crazy at recess time in order to get a swing. Elaine had a limp or walked on the balls of her feet sorta but it didn’t slow her down one bit when it came to getting a swing at recess. When frustrated Elaine would find someone that wouldn’t fight back to take it out on, usually I was one of the people she would pinch.
My Parents and Bertha and Earl Myers were good friends and enjoyed having dinner together and playing cards. Bud liked to play cards also, he would play with us kids. When Bud won everyone with-in a mile knew it because of his laugh. When I was entering high school Bud was told he had TB and went to the San Haven to live. I don’t ever remember seeing him again.
This picture was taken at the school reunion can’t remember what year.
Bonnie Awalt Houle (56)
Elaine Schneider, Dwight Lang, Elaine Watkins, Duwayne Lang, Janice Leonard, Mickey Haagenson & Bonnie Awalt

Question for Bill Hosmer:

I have been asked how to go about purchasing the Book “The Birds Were Silver Then” written by your friend Lowell Peterson. Can you provide us with that info once again? I have the book, compliments of you. There is an address and email address on the copyright page, but I’m not sure if those are correct anymore. It’s a really good reading hard cover book all about the air war over North Viet Nam of which you were a big part of and are mentioned numerous times throughout the book. Being a career Air Force pilot, you were Senior and the lead for your group for all the air strikes you performed. The old saying, “Rank has it’s privileges” may not have been so true with the air strikes over Viet Nam.

Thanks,

Gary

From Ivy Eller Robert (74):

Hi Gary…..Hope all is well!

This is for Janice Leonard Workman:

Janice…I remember your sister Corinne. I believed she loved to play cards and board games. I remember when I was little, a would tag along with my sister Carol (sometimes Bonnie) and we would go visit Corinne. We had a great time with her, she loved company. I remember, she had a crush on someone ( I don’t recall who it was) and Carol would tease her about him, she would laugh and blush. She was so sweet. I have fond memories of her……..I can still see her in my “minds-eye” laughing and playing games!

Ivy Eller Robert

From sharron Gottbreht Shen (59):

Hello Gary,

The family of Donald Sharratt [11 Jan 1931-1 Feb 2009] asked that I would inform friends of his passing. Don was the adopted son of Erwin and Leah Boucher. Don did not complete high school but would have been in the class of ’48. He enlisted in the Korean War and worked as a mechanic; skills he used in lifelong service. The family asks that any memorials be made to Disabled Veterans.

Don was an avid genealogist and enormous help to me researching the Boucher and Casavant families. Always spoke with great fondness of his many Edward Boucher and Sharratt cousins. I will miss his many phone calls over the years since 1982. Bonnie McGibbon, Don’s beloved wife of more than 20 years will share expressions of sympathy with his several children and grandchildren.

Bonnie L. McGibbon, 6921 N Montezuma Dr, Tucson, AZ 85718

Reply from Tom Hagen (51):

Hi Gary, Just a quick reply to Pam
Wenstad Lane.(78) My name is Tom Hagen and I am first cousin of your
Dad,Oscar Wenstad and your grandma Anna and my father Tom were brother
and sister. I would visit your home when you kids were little and even
stayed with you for a couple days when there was a snowstorm!!! Cousin
Tom Hagen, 51

Reply from Dick Johnson (68):

Gary and Friends,

Today I got an email from Linda Johnson Juntunen in Rolla. She said her
husband Dale remembered our address in Grand Forks was 2029 2nd Ave N,
not 2022 2nd Ave N as I said. He lived there with several of us in
’70-’71 and has a great memory! I hope he doesn’t spread any ‘rumors’
about the old ‘Sugar Shack’, as it was called. Just a bunch of decent
guys doing the things that nice guys do! It really wouldn’t bother me,
Dale, if your memory is a bit faded! Thanks Dale and Linda! Thanks again
Gary!

Dick

New email address for Marty Spriggs (former teacher):

We did change our email address.

New address:

Thanks for everything you do.

Take care, Marty

Reply from Crystal Fassett Andersen (70):

Well,since veryone else added their two cents,I thought I better add mine. What I remember about Elaine:…my boys (Aaron & Tyler Gunderson) thought of her as Aunt Laney. She never forgot my birthday or theirs and she made a wonderful angel food cake,always had a Knock,Knock joke,scratched your back and loved to “thumb” wrestle. She may have been mean when she was younger but I never saw it. She loved all our babies and would sit and hold them for hours.She would get so excited when she saw us coming to their house ^& she would be half down the road to meet us. She adored my Mom Irene and called her daily on the phone. She was a gift from God to our family. I also remember Corinne Leonard. She and Edna went many places with my Mom and loved to touch you and would smile that big smile of hers. I am attaching a few photo. Some I thought you “boys” would love and my favorite of some of out “aunts” and cousins. I saw Lorraine Neameyer Haas and she commented on how she didn’t realize how we were related to so many people. We had huge family picnics annually at he Peace garden and Uncle Ernie Amundson’s and I always thought everyone who came was a relative. As I got older I now see ,that in our family, if you show up at a picnic even once,You’re family!! So to all my extended family in the Turtle Mts. And everywhere…”Thanks for the Memories!!” Love and Blessings Crystal Fassett Andersen 1st picture; Dad Bill Fassett batting against Rolla at the Rolla fair June 1951 2nd : Grandpa Wilmar “Pappy” Fassett and Harry Fassett June 1953 3rd: Bill Fassett shooting,John Hill,Elvin Haagenson, Kids are (I think) Charlie Carbonneau,Gary Wenstad & Janet Haagenson (correct me Sisiter Sue ,if I’m wrong) 4th: Irene Fassett holding Paula,Murl Hill holding Brenda,Elaine & Helen Watkins,front: Ann Carbonneau,Susan &Crystal(in bonnet) Fassett,Charlie Carbonneau & Grandma Gudrun Watkins holding Marise Hoover

Reply from Neola Kofoid Garbe:

Hi Gary,

I’m enjoying the wonderful/loving stories about Elaine Watkins. The pictures of Elaine when she was “little” are adorable and precious. I remember her as she looks in the picture where she and Irene are dancing. I didn’t know Elaine well, but I felt so bad when she passed away. If my memory is correct, I met Elaine at a get-together at the Rendahl Church may years ago. I can’t remember if it was a New Year’s Eve event, or it is was after some other event. I remember we played “board games”. Orvin Hagen was there, of course (I can still picture him laughing/giving directions/entertaining us.), as were Barbara and Bobby Bott, Mickey and Neva Haagenson. I’m sure there were many others, too (Gary/Karen Wenstad?), but these are the ones I remember. That’s probably the night I met these people. Mickey and I didn’t see each other often through the years, but we were friends the last 25 years,or so, of her life. I see Barbara often when I visit Mom at Good Samaritan.

Neola

Message/Picture from Bonnie Awalt Houle (56):

Dear Gary, In answer to Bobby Hosmer; Bobby I too remember the day Elaine was struck, not a pleasant sight. Scared the heck out of me and I gave Miss. Eggy a healthy distance after that. Elaine loved to swing, you had to race like crazy at recess time in order to get a swing. Elaine had a limp or walked on the balls of her feet sorta but it didn’t slow her down one bit when it came to getting a swing at recess. When frustrated Elaine would find someone that wouldn’t fight back to take it out on, usually I was one of the people she would pinch.

My Parents and Bertha and Earl Myers were good friends and enjoyed having dinner together and playing cards. Bud liked to play cards also, he would play with us kids. When Bud won everyone with-in a mile knew it because of his laugh. When I was entering high school Bud was told he had TB and went to the San Haven to live. I don’t ever remember seeing him again.

This picture was taken at the school reunion can’t remember what year.

Bonnie Awalt Houle (56)

Elaine Schneider, Dwight Lang, Elaine Watkins, Duwayne Lang, Janice Leonard, Mickey Haagenson & Bonnie Awalt

From Bonnie/Lloyd Awalt (44):

Lloyd, he has compiled a listing of the Main Street Businesses in Dunseith. If anyone has any changes to make, feel free to add your memories. bonnie (56)

Lloyd Awalt

Ifyou were entering Dunseith from the South back in the early 40’s these are the businesses you would see.(to the best of my recollection)

East Side

Richards Service Station

Hassens Store

(street intersection)

Deiters Telephone Office

Mornville’s Grocery*

(vacant lot)

Leonard’s Café

(operated by Ed Leonard

Anderson’s Creamery

Ray Wilson’s Law Office

Barber shop

Althea Theater (Arnold Lilleby)

Douglas’s Funeral Home

(Street intersection)

Bank (Campbells)

Post Office

Hardware Store

S. Kadry Pool Hall

Pete Richard’s Variety Store***

Cote Liquor Store

Hosmer’s Store

(street intersection)

Gamble Store

Charlie Wright’s Creamery

Pool Hall/Teen Center

Wilson’s Home **

Watkins/Morgan Lumber Yard

*** Joe Mornville started his store here

**Dunseith Clinic

* Michaels started the Dunseith Journal in this building until a fire burned it down.

West Side

Michaels Newspaper (Dunseith Journal)

(street intersection)

Corner Garage

Stadheim/Woodford bar- bowling lanes

Small lunch counter -Bertha Myers cook

KC Siems Red/White Store

(vacant lot)

Lamoureux Brothers Garage with a large lot full of oil drums/machinery

Liquor Store/Lilleby-Lacroix

(Street intersection)

Stone Garage-Ray Lake

Red Owl Grocery-Lamoureux/Bedard

DionShoe Store

Snow White BakeryPat McAtee

Myer’s Clothing Store

Crystal CaféPoliquins/ Rosie McCoy

CreameryRay Murray/Bottineau

Peace Garden Café Fountain’s

Barber shop

Dry Cleaners/ Shoe Repair Dore

Shelver’s Drug

(street intersection)

Dakota Hotel

Cabin Gas Station Lloyd Awalt

Boarder Patrol Office in hotel cabins

From Mel Kuhn (70):

Howdy,

Gary, Dick left things so wide I open that I’m having trouble knowing what to do. I spent last Friday with him helping him work on a couple of tractors. The word challenged comes to mind but I just don’t know how to put it in a sentence with Dick’s name and use it properly. I am just totally at a loss for words, someone else is going to have to step up and take a shot. Larry H. how about it?

Mel Kuhn

10/2/2015 (2289)

Reply from Randy Kelly (’69):  St. Paul, MN
Gary,

I forgot to congratulate you and your wife on the birth of your twin grandchildren.  What a blessing.  God is truly great!

Take care.

Randy

Thanks Randy: They are special. They look like
Bernie, their dad too. Very healthy and doing well.
Stokes 2289

 

Memories of Jack Flynn
From Lyle Olson (’75):  West Fargo, ND

Gary and all,

So sad to hear of Jack Flynn’s passing.

I hauled literally thousands of hay bales for Jack.  Although barely a teenager I still remember all the conversations we had driving from town to his farm.  He talked about all manner of things, including sports, politics and life in general. He talked to me like I was a man and not a tweener.

As most know, he rarely talked about his military service, or at least not with me.  As I grew up and heard the horrors of Vietnam Nam from the local boys who fought over there, I often thought that Jack must have seen some god awful things during his long tour of duty in WWII. He was truly a patriot and one of the greatest generation. It was his advice upon which I joined the USAF after high school ( well his advice and that of James Very, the Juvenile Court Judge at the time—-

However, I prefer to remember that it was Jack’s advice that carried the day!)

Jack was an avid reader, until the cruel onset of his vision loss.  I would bump into him from time to time and he would tell me about a book he just finished.  He also wanted to talk about law with me and I must admit he stymied me on more than one occasion. But he did so with humor and intelligence.

Although not a very good baseball player I was a bench warming member of some of the best Legion teams Dunseith ever produced.  Jack would show up at almost all the games.  He loved baseball and especially enjoyed watching his boys from Dunseith.  I remember him showing up at a Babe Ruth State tournament game in Minot and he then drove a few of us younger boys to watch our Legion team play a Regional or State game in Carrington. He bought us all lunch and made sure our parents knew we were with him.

Back to hauling bales, Jacked would often hay with Wally and Kenny Hiatt.  I remember Jack letting me drive a load of hay back to the farm and I took a corner a bit too fast and half the load tumbled off the trailer. Kenny was not too pleased and said a few swear words my way.  Jack simply walked over to the pickup and grabbed a warm Schlitz beer out of the box and said he would supervise me while I restocked the load.  That is exactly what he did. Never said a bad word my way and never mentioned it to anyone.  By the time I finished he had put away 3 to 4 warm beers and asked me to drive home!  Definitely gave me confidence to drive, which I know now was his intent.  Can’t beat that kindness!

Lyle Olson
West Fargo

 

Memories of Jack Flynn
From Don Olson (’75):

The Olson family moved to Dunseith in 1968.  I am the oldest of three sons of Lorraine Somers, (Metcalfe).  My name is Don and I have two accomplished brothers, Lyle and Rob. We were involved in sports, baseball, basketball, and football.   Our mother worked three jobs to support us but we did have people who watched us play and would tell our mother about our performance, be it good or bad.  Mr. Jack Flynn was one of these people.

Growing up in Dunseith you were certain of a couple things. One, if there was a sporting event in town, especially baseball, Jack Flynn and Herman Martinson would be there.  Looking back at the experiences we had in Dunseith, we were very privileged and honored to be taught about life by these two men.  Herman Martinson was one of the best people I have ever met or probably will meet. His soft-spoken guidance helped more than one young man see problems more clearly and he had this sense of knowing what you needed to feel better. Once in a while, he would jack you up if you had been slacking or he would boost you up when you needed the reinforcement.

Mr. Flynn was the driving force behind the American Legion teams from the late 60s through the early 70s. He made sure that the Dunseith squad had all the equipment they ever needed and funding to go to tournaments and food for the boys. I think for about three summers we played over 40 baseball games and were in three state tournaments.

All he ever asked for in return was respect for the game, respect for the American Legion and sportsmanship. You were expected to stand at attention for the American Legion Creed; you were expected to hustle on and off the field at all times. You were to respect the umpires and referees and to be good sportsman and act like gentlemen. I do not remember a time when he did not support each and every individual in the team like we were part of his family.

The second thing I was assured of as a boy; was that we were expected to give our best efforts in any endeavor we chose. He believed in our potential as boys and later as men.  I feel truly blessed to have had role models such as Jack.

My last encounter was with Jack was one afternoon at The Hardware Store. I stopped in for something and when I asked David Fugere for the item, Jack who was sitting on the bench, said “I know that voice is an Olson; which one are you?” I told him I was Don and he related how he would sometimes walk across the street to our little trailer and grab one of the younger Olson Boys to go with him to pick rock on the farm. First it was Lyle and then Rob as he got older. My brothers talked about being with Jack as a great experience as he was fountain of knowledge and care. He never ceased to ask about my brothers when I saw him.  It was an honor to be mentored by such good men.

 

Jim and Ruby Birkland’s 80th Birthday Party
Posting/pictures from Larry Hackman (’66): Bismarck, ND

Hi Gary,

I hope this letter finds you and your family doing better.  Hang in there old friend.

I really appreciate that you are still able to find the time to get the blog done and sent out to all of us.

Here are some photos of Jim and Ruby (Kuhn) Birkland’s, “80th Birthday Party” celebrated at the Lutheran Church in Dunseith , ND. on Sept. 20,2015.

If your gonna play in North Dakota , ‘You gotta have a fiddle in the band”!

A great time was had by all.

Larry

Birkland, Jim 2289-1 Birkland, Jim 2289-2 Birkland, Jim 2289-3

A few others  who joined in the fun.
Walter Peterson, Erma 2289 Dubois, Loren 2289 Rivard, Robert 2289

A couple other guys and a hot rod at the Birthday Party.
Poitra, Raphael 2289 kuhn, Mel 2289-1

Thanks Gary, You do a great job!

 

====================================
Blog (358) posted on February 2, 2009

 

From Lois Lilleby Fielding (51): 

Hi to all:  We are home from visiting children and grandchildren during December and from Costa Rica during January–where we studied and lived with a family.
We had felt some small rumbles in the earth a few times before the big earthquake occurred (6.2) and we ran out of the house to the back yard, where we swayed back and forth with the earth for a short time, I even felt nauseous.  North of San Jose at Volcan Poas occurred massive damage and some people have never been found and several communities were wiped out.  The T.V. news, of course carried it constantly and the people of C.R. came to the rescue as best they could.  I even saw a large monkey run into the arms of an animal rescuer.  It was very touching.  Volcan Poas is again open for visitors, but the devastation of the roads and beautiful mountains and streams is great–just in that area.  The rest of C. R. is okay.  About 30 volcanologists were studying Poas in the crator when it cccurred, but they all came out unharmed.      Happy New Year to all!    Lois Lilleby Fielding

 

Reply from Lloyd Awalt (44):

Hi Gary,  Here is my answer to Dick.

Hello Dick Johnson,

1960 is when Bill Teal retired from the depot, Bill Teal almost never drove, he always got someone else to drive for him.. Bill and Irene moved down next to Jack and Minnie Flynn.  Ray Hagel took his place as depot agent.  Yes I remember putting pennies on the train tracks and having the train flatten them, so you weren’t the first to do that and you sure weren’t the last.  Doing that sure made a penny look like it could be worth more than one cent didn’t it!

 

My Dad John Awalt bought the Dray Line in 1931 from Ike Berg.  We used horses to haul the freight, we hauled everything, coal, ashes, and ice besides what came in on the train.  During the Christmas Season is was not unusual to haul as many as three truck loads of mail up to the San Haven.  Coal was a big part of the business because almost all homes, stores and the school was heated by coal.  The coal had to be pushed from the train cars into the coal sheds and later loaded onto the wagon or truck and hauled to it’s destination.  The bucket you pushed it with by hand was no easy chore, and sometimes if you hit a nail in the floor as you were pushing it was a bugger of a quick stop.  Dad sold the Dray Line in 1943.

Lloyd Awalt

 

Reply from Janice Leonard Workman (56): 

Hi everybody, hope you all are getting ready for spring.  Surely it must be on the way!!!

Elaine Watkins died just 1 month after my sister Corinne.  Both were mentally challenged.  It was interesting to hear of Elaine’s ability to remember things,

because Corinne could also.  She remembered all the relatives’ birthdays, anniversaries, and she could also tell you how old people were.  My mother used

to say, if it weren’t for Corinne, nobody would have gotten birthday cards from her.  Corinne did not attend public school, although that was tried and failed, but she did have a

tutor come to the house for a time.  That was Elinor Fuchs and she made a big improvement in Corinne’s life.  Elinor taught her to read enough so she could find things in

the newspaper.  Especially she would look to see who was in the hospital from Dunseith.  As Mom was writing the news for the TMS, that was a big help.  One of the things

about Elaine, when we were younger, was that we would sit together at the movies, way down in front.  She wasn’t always as friendly as she was as she got older, but

mostly we managed to get along.  She and Corinne were much more compatible.  I don’t remember Bud so well, but I knew his folks better as they were often in the Crystal

Café when I worked there.  Bud was pretty quiet, but friendly.

I really think Gary Metcalf gives Bonnie and I a lot of credit as I see our names in his messages pretty often. Thanks, Gary, you are alright!!!

Adrian Egbert was a character around town.  He was the father of my aunt, Margaret Lilleby who was just the best aunt to have in this world.  She and Louis drove a

taxi in Dunseith for a number of years before moving to Washington.  They lived in the house the Dick Johnson’s folks had before moving to their farm.  Eventually my

brother Lowell owned that house.  The house was right across from Adrian’s Northern Hotel.  Adrian’s woodpile was always a temptation on Halloween, and my

friends were involved in several “tricks” there.  Dorothy (Adrian’s second wife) and my mother were friends and visited often.  When Mom wanted to sell the house we

had lived in (get this, which was built by Adrian) Dorothy bought it for $2000. What a deal!!  Donald and his wife lived in the last I knew.

Enough for now.  Take care.  Janice Leonard Workman, class of 1956 rules!!!!

 

Reply from Gary Metcalfe (57): 

Re: Modeste Lagimodiere

Modeste’s homestead was about 1 1/2 miles south of Rapid City Lake and one mile off #3 highway.  Louis Riel Jr. was son of Julie Lagimodiere and Louis Riel Sr.
I have a story of Joe Lagimodiere and old Martin Evan’s, also Ben Lagimodiere told my dad what to do if a mean bull got you off guard in an open field.

If Alice Bergan doesn’t have a picture of Alcide, what with Alcide babysitting her kids all those years, then I guess we are out of luck.  People reading this would get a lot more out of it if there was a picture.
It is interesting that Bergan’s land is connected to the old Modeste homestead and Mahlon Bailly was right next door   The Banker Templeman place where Wilmer Fassett was after 1935 was there also.

Melvin Cook, someone out there may know what family brought him to the area.  I am guessing maybe the Anderson’s.  On those swimming adventures on Rabbit City Lake, they would look way over on the other side of the lake, and say “there he is”.  Melvin swam like a duck, staying under water so long, they wondered where he was at.  I think he had some other talents too.

About 1947 Dad introduced me to a man named Fred Morin.  He had a big star, a big hat and he was a rather striking figure of a man, this was up on the Jack Rabbitt Trail north of Dunseith.  As I read his story in Prairie Past and Mountain Memories, one could easily write a book on his life of 104 years.  I thought Fred did a lot of his duty on foot?  For sure Wilbur Hall did his work on horseback on the Canadian Border when we first came back to the farm.  Things really were changing fast in the 40’s.
Gary Metcalfe

 

Reply from Colette Hosmer (64): c

Cousin Bob,

I liked your memory/letter which included Elaine Watkins very much.  I have added this image of you to my file of “cousin Bob Hosmer memories” in my head.  That’s one of the great things about this communal “blog”.  It enables us all to build a more complete picture of those who contributed to our lives.

Thanks to you, the “Fassett Boys” and others, my memory of Elaine has filled-out considerably.

Colette

 

Susan, I forgot to attack the pictures when I posted the following message with #355.  Sorry about that.  Gary

Reply from Susan Fassett Martin (65): 

Gary Metcalfe mentioned Elaine Watkins.   She was born Jan 1st 1938 to
Helen Amundson and Roy Watkins.  She was a sister to Murl Hill, Jeannine
Robert, and Carol Carbonneau.  She died in 1993 peacefully in her bed at
home on the farm north of Dunseith.   She never fully developed mentally
beyond about a 10- 12 year old mentality, but I believer God sent her
into our family to teach us love and understanding and tolerance.  She
loved all of us kids (cousins Tim Hill, Charles Carbonneau, Susan
Fassett, and all our siblings.  We used to tease her unmercifully when
we were kids, but she loved us anyway.  Charlie, Mark Andersen, and I
used to take her out on Lake Metigoshe in the boat (Charlie driving) and
we would make her sit on one side and then Charlie would turn sharply so
the edge of the boat was nearly touching the water, just to make Elaine
squeal.  She loved to tease the roosters and they would chase her when
she came out of the house.  I’m sure Carol can tell many stories about
her and also Murl and Jeannine.  These pictures are in my collection,
of Elaine in 1940 when she was 2.  The one of her dancing is with my
mother, Irene Fassett, her cousin.  Mom was teaching her to dance and
that was at our house on the corner in Dunseith(Paula sitting on the
couch.)  We had lots of good times with her.  I like to think that she
and mom and dancing in heaven along with lots of other relatives who
have gone home ahead of us.   God Bless,  Hugs and prayers,  Susan

 

Irene Fassett & Elaine Watkins Dancing – Paula Fassett on couch
Fassett Watkins 2289

 

                  Elaine Watkins – 1940
Watkins, Elaine 2289

 

                    Elaine Watkins – 1940
Watkins, Elaine 2289-1

                     Elaine Watkins – 1940
Watkins, Elaine 2289-2