03/17/2010

Posted on by
Folks,
 
Today is our bowling day, so I’m putting this out a bit early even though today’s blog is a bit short.
 
Bernadette is starting to get the hang of the game. Last week she bowled a 169 game. I manage to maintain my 124 Average. I bowled for a short time in a league in about 1972. At that time I purchased a ball of which I still have and use today. It’s a 16 pound ball. The heaviest ball they have here in the PI is 15 lbs.
 
Gary
 
 
 
Wolford 1968 Basketball Championship playoffs
From Paulette LaCroix Chisholm (68): Newark, Delaware
 

Here’s a fun story about the Wolford Wolves in 1968 who didn’t take state championship, but were winners to us none the less. John Ydstie, a former player who narrates the story, works or worked for NPR (national public radio) . I believe he married Mary Jo Vrem from Rolette. This story was presented on NPR years ago and I wondered if anyone else had heard it. He did a nice job and we get to hear a little from the team’s star at the time Vance Bowersox, Richard Petric and the coach Mr. Julson. Our class of ’68 will remember playing this team and those graceful scoring long shots executed by Bowersox. Thought I’d share this with all who enjoy the game of basketball. It’s one of those sweet stories of success told about a small town very close to home.

 

Paulette LaCroix Chisholm

 

http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=5166585

 

Paulette, this is quite a story. Les Halvorson, former Dunseith HS teacher and Married to Myra Henning (72), is from Wolford. Les has been a sports broadcaster at the Bottineau Radio station for years too.
 
Les, I’ll bet you recall this story well. I’m assuming you probably graduated a year or so before this though, none the less this is your home town. Gary
 
 
Highway 43 CD Request:
From Sharon Longie Dana (73): MIssoula MT
 
For Dick Johnson:

How can we get a copy of their cd?? Is there more than one?? I would love have one.

Sharon Longie Dana(73)

  

03/16/2010

Posted on by
Gwen Grimme Eltz (68) & Brenda Hoffman (68) will be attending the reunion.
Reply from Gwen: Spokane, WA.
Hi Gary,

Thanks for the personal message about attending the Dunseith reunion. Since we don’t finish our school term until mid-June, the reunion does come at a difficult time to get away. On the other hand, I really want be in Dunseith on May 22. So, I flipped a coin (LOL) and found that I should be at the reunion. Please add me (Class of ’68) and my husband George to the list of people attending. If it’s not too late to sign up for the meal, we’d like to be able to attend that event, too. I’ll send in our registration fees this week.

Thanks again for the message. I’m really looking foward to seeing you and Bernadette at the reunion–and especially eager to spend a little time with my brother, Bill, and Irina!!! Telephone conversations are good, but there’s nothing like being together in person.

See you in May!

Folks, I received a message from Brenda Hoffman that she will be attending the reunion too. She said she will most attend following the dinner sometime. Both Brenda and Gwen, as I understand it, will pretty much be in the area for just the week-end. This will be a whirl wind trip for both of them, with each coming from separate coasts too. Gwen from Washington and Brenda from South Carolina. It’s so wonderful that both these gals will be attending. We are excited to see them both.
 
 
Reunion entertainment with Dick/Brenda Johnson and the Highway 43 band.
From Dick Johnson (68): Dunseith, ND.
 
Gary and Friends,

With the reunion fast approaching, I thought it might be good for me
to mention the type of entertainment we will be providing for those in
attendance. We know that people are going to be there to visit so we
won’t be playing so loudly that it will make it hard to hear over the
music. We plan to play songs from all decades and all types and intermix
the songs in each set . So if you don’t happen to like the song, the
next one might be one of your favorites. Kind of like North Dakota
weather, if you don’t like it just wait a couple minutes and it will
change! We hope to have an area near the band where folks can dance. The
current plan is to play sets of about 40 minutes and take a 20 minute
break so everyone can visit—including us. At this time we are open to
suggestions too. This should be a fun time for everyone in attendance!
Thanks Gary!

Dick

Folks, we are so fortunate to have Dick providing us with their entertainment. I have heard nothing but outstanding reports of their music. They aim to please of which they accomplish very well. I have one of their CD’s of which I listen to often. It’s a wonderful piece of Art. Dick is great at keeping things spiced up a bit too. Dick has offered their services for free. Being part of us, he said this is something he wants to do. I have had several personal messages asking if we plan on compensating Dick and the Highway 43 band. The answer to that question is yes. We plan on having a donation Jar at the registration table for Dick and his folks. I too personally feel they should be compensated. Not all of the Highway 43 band members are Dunseith Alumni and they too have agreed to provide their services for nothing. What a wonderful group. Gary
 
 
Reply from Lynn Henriksen (64): Tiburon, CA

 

Dear Gary,

I had a moment this morning to take a look at your Dunseith blog, and I was glad I did.

The ice fishing pictures Randy sent in brought back delightful memories. In contrast, though, I don’t usually think of the cold as much as I do about the fun we had. Randy is right, ice fishing (what a catch!) on a sunny day can’t be beat – and neither can growing up in the Turtle Mountains. I have great memories of being “allowed” to run the trap-lines with my brother, Rick – now that was cold – great globs of ice stuck to wool socks and all, but I loved it. Then thinking about the hours Colette and I spent wondering the frozen wilderness our minds made the neighbor’s pasture out to be, building igloos of sorts and retracing our thigh-deep, blue-hued steps back to Kelvin, lure me back to the innocence of a childhood I wouldn’t trade for anything. Although at this stage in my life, I have to say that I wouldn’t trade being warmed by SF Bay Area sunshine and cooled in her delightful fog for anything, either. Guess it nice to just be happy wherever you are and count the blessings of just being.

Thanks you.

 

Keeping Spirits Alive,

 

Lynn Henriksen, The Story Woman

 

President, Women’s Nat’l Book Assoc–San Francisco

 

Blog: www.thestorywoman.com Website: www.telltalesouls.com

 

Red Room Author, Where the Writers Are

 

 
 
 
Reply from Marlys Hiatt (71): Dunseith, ND
 
Congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. Brian Fauske – I am delighted to hear
about their wonderful day and how happy they are.

Marlys Hiatt

 
 
 
Fishing Memories of Minnie Flynn (47):
From Dick Johnson (68): Dunseith, ND.
 
Gary and Friends,

With the posting of Larry Tooke’s fishing crew, I remembered a cute
story about Minnie Flynn and fishing. I’m trying to remember which lake
I was ice fishing on back in the 60s and ran into Minnie and Marlene
Armentrout, who were also fishing. I just can’t remember where. Anyway,
I just stopped by to see how they were doing and they had caught some
nice fish. I asked Marlene what they brought along for bait? She pointed
at her minnow pail and mistakenly said, “Minnie.” We all had a good
laugh! The good old days. Thanks Gary!

  

03/15/2010

Posted on by

Folks, For those of you outside of Alaska and Arizona, I’m hoping you all remembered to set your clocks ahead. Gary

 

 

Pictures from Larry Tooke (71): Souris, ND

Posted by Randy Flynn (70): Happy Valley, OR
 
Gary,
When we move away from North Dakota we always seem to remember the cold days but sometimes forget about the winter fun. Ice fishing on a sunny day is always a great time. Summer or winter, a bad day fishing still beats a good day at work. The attached pictures are of my cousins’ (Larry Tooke’s) family and my mother (Larry’s aunt) Minnie Flynn ice fishing in the Turtle Mountains. There are some great fishing houses as well as portables for this winter pasttime.
Thank you for keeping us in touch with Dunseith.
Randy
 
 
 
 
 

Hi Randy,

 

We took Minnie fishing last weekend. Had a great time.

 

I have attached some pictures.

 

Larry, Leslie & Boys

 

The Fishin’ Team

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Folks, These are a few pictures from the Archieves. Gary

 

 

 

July 15, 2007

 

Dennis Dubois and Phyllis McKay. Note: Dennis will be at our reunion in May.

 

 

 

Dunseith Alumni Alaskan cruise – July 2009

 

Cheryl Haagenson with the judges of the singing contest she won.

 

  

03/14/2010

Posted on by
Reply from Connie (Roger) Zorn: Bottineau, ND.

Hi Gary, It’s allot of fun reading the Dunseith news. I didn’t go to school in Dunseith so I don’t know allot of the people who write in the news. I do know the Christianson’s. Helen was a Rivard huh!! Is she related to Robert Rivard?? I knew Lillian Houle. She was a neat lady. I know her daughter Shirley. Doris Kessler wrote in the Botno Courant & did a good job. I see her allot @ Good Sam. take care Connie
Connie, Yes Helen Christenson is a sister to Robert Rivard. Both Robert and Helen are from my class of 65 too. Robert is married to Barbara Boucher. Her father and Mrs. Dale (Alma) Gottbreht are siblings. Robert and Barbara live on the Rivard home place near Rendahl church. Robert/Barbara and Helen/Duane plan on being at the reunion too. I’ve talked to them all, several times, in the past couple of weeks. Gary
 
 
Sylvia Bergan – Metigoshe Store:
Reply from Neola Kofoid Garbe: Minot & Bottineau, ND.
 

Hi Gary,

 

Sylvia Bergan baked pies (and other pasteries) for the “coffee shop” section of the Metigoshe Store. They were the BEST pies! I had never liked raisin pie; Mrs. Bergan’s sour cream raisin pie changed that. To this day, sour cream raisin pie is one of my favorites (along with lemon).

 

Neola
 
 
Brian Fauske’s (70) Wedding:
From his cousin Rod Hiatt (69): Bottineau, ND.
 

Hello Gary and all the Dunseith family

I believe Friday was the perfect day, the clear sky’s, the sun shining for the first time in like months and the total warmth of the day. I actually felt that nothing could top this beautiful day, until my wife Suzy and I walked into the Vegas Motel banquet room in Minot to help celebrate the wedding of Brian Fauske and Deb Middaugh.

The happy couple met us at the door and the glow on there faces was by far more enlightening than the days sunshine, and the warmth you could feel from their love and sincerity was more soothing than the hottest sun rays of midday.

Arriving somewhat early(unusual for us), we had the opportunity of noticing how Brian and Deb greeted each and everyone that came to share in their joyous day. Both the bride and groom must be well known and very much liked as the banquet hall was filled to capacity with friends and family from Dunseith to the west coast, including Brian’s sister’s Connie, Carrole, Carrole’s husband Laverne, and their daughter Melissa who drove in from Washington to surprise Brian and his new wife. Its always a great time when you have the opportunity to bring back the memories of cousins growing up in Dunseith.

I personally would like to welcome this beautiful woman into the Hiatt Family and thank her for putting that spark in my cousins eye.
 
Rolette County History:
From Bill Grimme (65): Birmingham, AL.
 

A little bit of history…..

 

Dakota Territory was created in 1861 by a bill signed by President Buchanan just before his term ended. Two days after the territory was created, one of the first official acts of the new president, Abraham Lincoln, was to appoint his old friend, Dr. William Jayne, as Governor of the Territory, of which Yankton was then the capitol. By 1873, an act of the Congress divided North Dakota into counties and what is now Rolette County was then known as Buffalo County. Since then the boundaries were changed twice to form the present county and the name Rolette was given in honor of “Jolly Joe Rolette”, a French-Indian fur trader who was a vital part of the development of the Great Northwest and what is now North Dakota.

In 1883, settlers were coming into the area locating primarily near St. John and Dunseith. Many of them felt the time had come for the county to be organized. In 1884 Arthur Foussard, M. Welton and Fred Schutte were named as County Commissioners. The newly formed board met near Dunseith to organize, Fred was named Chairman and Dunseith was established as the County Seat.

There were citizens who were not content to see Dunseith set up as the county seat of Rolette County. It soon became apparent that the people of St. John were prepared to make trouble. At any rate, St. John was determined to get the county seat at any cost. Although there is no record of any petition for a county seat vote, an election was held May 6, 1885. Much campaigning on both sides preceded the election and considerable ill feeling was engendered. Neither the Dunseith or St. John partisans had much respect for the intentions of the other.

On election day a committee from St. John came to Dunseith to watch the voting and a committee from Dunseith went over to St. John. But despite this vigilance, a large amount of repeating is said to have taken place. Although both sides accused the other of illegal tactics, St. John appeared to have been the worst offender — the charge being that 1,125 votes were cast by approximately 225 voters. Before the issue could be settled in court, St. John proceeded to set up their county government, even though a second county government was still functioning.

The county records for this period have the unique distinction of containing the minutes for two rival county boards of Commissioners. When the issue had finally been settled in court, officials from St. John went to Dunseith for the records. On the way back, one of the big safes fell into a creek, important books and papers scattered. The Dunseith citizens felt they had the last laugh even though they had lost their bitter fight. In 1889, the northern part of Dakota Territory was admitted to statehood as North Dakota and in the general election of 1889 the county seat was changed to Rolla and moved from St. John in 1890.

 
 
More cars:
From Dick Johnson (68): Dunseith, ND.
 
Gary and Friends,

Just wondering how many folks can remember the winter evening in
about ’62-’63 when a guy, coming south on Main Street, lost control of
his car and slammed into the back of Rod Armentrout’s blue and white ’60
Pontiac. Rod’s car was parked in front of the Garden Lanes. This
happened because of the built up ice on the street and a little too much
speed for the conditions. Rod’s car was parked behind Dennis Espe’s
nearly new blue ’62 Ford four door so Rod’s Pontiac slammed into
Dennis’s car and slammed it into another car in front of it. About like
a freeway pileup! I think Rod’s car was totaled out as the back end was
smashed nearly up to the back window. Rod bought another identical car
and then made a sheet metal trunk portion on the wrecked car and drove
it back and forth to town as a work car. The story goes on. In the fall
of ’67, Rod took a temporary position teaching automotive mechanics in
the newly built DHS school shop. His good car needed an engine overhaul
so he had the kids in shop class rebuild the engine. He used the engine
from the wrecked car and the engine from the good car and took the best
parts from each for the rebuild. When the good car was done, he told the
kids to put the old parts engine back together and put it back in the
wrecked car, just for the practice. John Bogus told me that when they
finished, the junker engine ran just as well as the new one! I remember
Rod put lots more miles on the old wrecked car with the homemade trunk
section—and with the junk parts engine! Anyone remember any of this?
Thanks Gary!

Dick

 
 
Lagerquist family – 1982 Dunseith Centeniel Book:
Posted by Neola Kofoid Garbe: Minot & Bottineau, ND.
 
Folks, Neola asked me to combine these two scans into one for her files.
In doing that, I thought I’d also post. Gary

  

03/13/2010

Posted on by
Sunshine & Debbie Morinville (70):
Memories from Vickie Metcalfe (70): Bottineau, ND.
 
 
Greetings from Bottineau,
For the past week or so its been a foggy gloom with some icy doom. But at 8:30 a.m. this Friday morning it became sunshine and blue skies here at the feet of the Turtle Mountains. Just a wonderful spring fresh air March morning!

At break time I left the school building for a wee bit. All of a sudden I was driving down the street singing and I mean SINGING! . I startled myself! “Whoee where did that come from?” The song was, “Sunshine on my shoulder makes me happy….. sunshine in my eyes can make me cry…..” Ah… What a glorious day. And poof.. my thoughts drifted away to Debbie (Morinville) Marmon wherever she may be. The year was 1970 and she could sing that song so sweetly, without accompaniment. I wish her sunshine wherever she is. Because today the memory of that song sung by her added to my sunshine. Vickie M.
Thanks Gary

Thank you Vickie,
As we all know, Debbie Morinville Marmon is recovering from a stroke she had several years ago. Gary
 
 
 
Lagerquist family photo:
Provided by Neola Kofoid Garbe: Minot & Bottineau, ND.
Thank you Neola for sharing this beautiful photo. Rodney, Lyle, Ray & Dale all attended Ackworth before we were all sent to Dunseith. I remember this family very well down to Evon. Kim, Bruce and Carl were very young and/or came along after I left the area. As you can see, Evon is the only girl of nine siblings. Evon lives on the Robert/Dorothy Pritchard place 3/4 of a mile south of the Ackworth Cemetery. Leola, Rodney, Lyle and I believe one of the younger boys are living on the Lagerquist home place located 1 1/2 miles east and 1/2 mile south of the Ackworth Cemetery. Gary

 

 

Ackworth Cemetery – Elaine Stokes’ burial – July 2004

Note: I’d say this is a rose between two thorns? Gary

L To R: Gary Stokes, Leola Lagerquist & Allen Stokes

 

 

 

Metigoshe Store:

Picture posted by Jerry Olson (formerly from Souris, ND): Bremerton, WA.

 

Folks, I have a good story to tell you about how I met Jerry Olson. First off I will tell you he was born and raised in Souris, graduating from Souris in 1968. Jerry’s uncle was the owner of the John Deere implement dealership in Bottineau. His sister, Nadine Little, is well known in the Bottineau and surrounding community as the cake lady.

 

Now the story of how we met. Jerry has lived in Bremerton, WA for many years. We too lived in Bremerton for nearly 37 years. A good friend of mine who now lives in AZ sends out 6 forwards everyday to about 60 folks on his list. About 2 months ago one of his forwards was the picture of the deer on the snow mobile trail near Lake Metigoshe feeding on the grain that had been dumped there for them to eat. My friend really has no idea that I’m from ND. He had no idea where this picture was taken when he sent either. It had been forwarded to him as a joke that folks couldn’t use their snow mobiles because of the deer. I instantly recognized that photo from seeing it in the Bottineau Courant several years ago. I did a reply all to that message letting everyone know where this picture was taken with a bit of the history and geography of the area. The next day I got this reply from Jerry Olson who had gotten my reply forwarded to him. His comments were “Holy cow, I recognize that area”. He then said, “I think we have a lot in common” of which we do. His mother was a Dunderland from the hills. The Dunderland’s lived south of Lake Metigoshe. Jerry spent a lot of time at the Lutheran bible camp and church at Lake Metigoshe and also the Boy Scout camp in his youth. Jerry and I have never met face to face, but we have exchange a number of messages in the past several months. It’s a small world.

 

Jerry I have included you with today’s message. Thank you so much for sharing this photo. Gary

 

 

Folks, There were a lot of discussions about the Hobbs, the Metigoshe Store, etc back in January 2009. I have reposted several of those discussions below. Gary

Previously posted with message 347 on 1/22/2009:

 

Reply from Dick Johnson (68):
 
Gary and Friends,

Harvey Hobbs and his wife, Viola (also his sister’s name) operated the
Metigoshe Store. It was just south of the bridge and on the south side
of the curve. We went there many times in the late 50s and early 60s,
usually by boat from the cabin on the south lake. I remember how the
store had lots of steps up the front and you first entered the lunch
counter area. I had many sundaes at that little counter, while the folks
got groceries and supplies. They handled nearly everything lake related.
When the Hobbs’ left Lake Metigoshe, I think they moved to Crosby, ND.
Last Memorial Day I walked around at all the cemeteries and at Riverside
I saw the Hobbs grave where Harvey is buried. I believe he passed away
in the last couple of years, if my memory serves me correctly. Thanks Gary!

Dick

Dick, I remember that store and park area well. I was thinking it was Harvey Hobbs that owned that and you have just confirmed what I thought. We frequented his store and park area with many picnic lunches over the years of my childhood. I remember the water cooled pop dispenser that they had. Orange was my favorite, but it wasn’t always that we had a nickel or a dime to put in the machine. I remember our good Friends, Oscar and Sylvia Bergan, being connected to the Hobbs’ in some way too. Maybe they were just good friends of Harvey & Viola. Gary
 
 

Harvey Hobbs’ obituary & reply from Doreen Bailey: vbailey@ameda.net

 

Gary

Just to clarify Harvey Allen Hobbs was full name of Harvey E. and Viola’s father. It was very common to use the Middle name in the years past. I believe one reason for it was that so often families repeated the first names from generation to generation to honor fathers and grandfathers, etc.. It makes for some confusion when doing genealogy. I attached the son Harvey’s obituary it gives a good outline of his life’s activities. Thanks Doreen Bailey

 

 

Previously posted with message 348 on 1/23/2009

 

Reply from Mona Dionne Johnson (48):

 

Gar;y: Our cottage was not very far from the Metigoshe Store (Hobbs),
perhaps a mile, and we went there often. If we were working on the
boathouse or something and took a break, Chuck, Ross (our son) and I
would go for a snack, and this is where we met Sylvia Bergan, as she
worked for them and she baked the BEST frosted ginger cookies that I
have ever tasted. Ross just loved them, and was raring to go when we
said we were going to the store. Harvey & Arvilla were so well liked at
the Lake and ran a good business, and would help you in any way they
could. We missed them when they moved away.
Mona Dionne Johnson, ’48

Mona, Now that you mention it, I do remember Sylvia Bergan working at the Hobbs store. Being good friends with Oscar & Sylvia, I think was the reason we were at the Hobbs store often. Sylvia also cooked for the Boy scouts camp at Lake Metigoshe for many years. She was well known for her baking and cooking abilities. Sylvia will be 97 this year. She is living at the long term care facility at Saint Andrews hospital in Bottineau. Sylvia and a lot of the older members of the Metigoshe Lutheran church Ladies Aid served lunch at both my parents funerals, Dad in 2000 and mom in 2004. It sure brought back some good memories seeing all those folks doing what I remember seeing them doing, many times, in my growing up days. Sylvia was an aunt to Clayton Bergan. Gary

 

Newspaper articles:

Posted byNeola Kofoid Garbe: Minot & Bottineau, ND.

Note: Myles Brooks Grandparents are Orville & Gloria Hagen. His mother is Kristy (Hagen) Brooks.
They live on the Former Elmer Lindberg farm located about a half mile into Bottineau county on
Highway 43 (Peace Garden Road).
 
This Reunion announcement was posted in the Bottineau Courant. I sent it to the Turtle Mountain Star
and the Turtle Mountain times as well. I’m hoping it was published this past week in those papers too?
Gary

 

 

 

Bill is Melvin Foss’ step-son. Don is a member of “Just Us”, a musical group from Bottineau.

Other members in this group are Tina Pladson and Dave Mettler.

 

Neola

 

 

  

03/12/2010

Posted on by
Question from Bob Lykins (Former Teacher): Hutto, TX

Gary,

 

How much does it cost to support a family of 8 in your village with food for one month?

 

Bob Lykins

A family of 8 with younger children can have a balanced diet for about $100/month. Rice is their staple and a good filler. A 50 KG (110 LBS) bag of rice will last about one month for a family of 8 with younger children. Rice is their main coarse for all meals. A bag of rice costs about $28. A rice diet alone without much other food tends to create pop bellied malnutrited folks. Gary
 
 
Mustang Car:
Reply from Dick Johnson (68): Dunseith, ND.
 
Gary and Friends,

Brenda’s memory of the early Mustangs is appreciated. The way the
Mustang that I had came to us, is a story in itself. Dad bought a lot at
Lake Metigoshe in 1956 for $500. He moved a small cabin to the lot by
himself and with the improvements had probably a couple hundred dollars
more invested. Nine years later we were kind of burned out with the lake
deal and a fellow offered to trade Dad the blue and white Mustang, even
up, for the lake cabin. The car had around 1100 miles on it and was
worth around $3400 so Dad jumped on the deal. When I graduated in ’68,
he gave me the car with a couple stipulations. I had to stay at the farm
and feed the cattle and watch the new house they had just moved there
and also trade him my brown and gold ’57 Ford Fairlane 500. I drove the
Mustang to college in Bottineau for two years and had racked up about
75,000 miles on it. I traded it to Leo Lamoureux for his ’67 Ford LTD in
1970. Jay and Gayle Lamoureux bought the Mustang and Gayle still has it,
the last I heard. I was told that she had it professionally restored in
Arizona. Someday I would like to see it again. In the late ’70s, Mom
said she would like to have another Mustang. I was doing a lot of car
stuff and ran into a kid in Bottineau who was just putting a ‘for sale’
sign in the windshield of a blue ’68 Mustang fastback. He was asking
$1000 and I had $830 in my billfold—he took it on the spot! Mom drove
the Mustang to work at the bank until she died and now I still have the
car in the same condition as it was in 1980. It needs a paint job and
maybe tires as it has the same tires on it yet. We start it twice a
year, spring and fall, and drive around the farm a bit and run it back
inside the quonset. The original owner, at least the guy I bought it
from, has made several trips up to see it and once made an offer that is
well over 10 times what I paid him, but it’s still here! My son has a
’68 Mustang GT and I also have some other Mustangs, but this one is
quite special to me. It brings back good memories. Attached is a picture
of my first Mustang–the 64 1/2. Thanks Gary!

Dick

 

 

Lillian Houle:

 

Posted by Neola Kofoid Garbe: Minot & Bottineau, ND.

 

 

Marvin & Alida Christenson:

 

Posted by Neola Kofoid Garbe: Minot & Bottineau, ND.

 

 

Remembering the Dirty 30’s: Courant, July 19, 1992
 
Marvin/Alida are the parents of Marlys and Duane. Marlys passed away a couple of years ago. Duane and his wife, Helen (Rivard), live in Bottineau. Alida lives at Good Samaritan in Bottineau. Alida is the daughter of Hjalmer/Irene Pederson, sister of Lloyd.
 
Neola
Neola,
Duane, Marvin & Alida’s boy is married to Helen Rivard from my class of 65. I have known that family my entire life. We all belonged to the Metigoshe Lutheran churches. I know many of you probably Remember Duane Christenson too from our younger days. Gary

 

  

03/11/2010

Posted on by
Reply to Dunseith Lutheran 1969 Confirmation Picture:
From Connie (Roger) Zorn Landsverk: Bottineau, ND
 
Hi Gary,

Neat photo of the conformation class of 1969. I knew Allen Strong quite well & some of his brothers Ron, Jerry & David) I know Myra (Henning) Halvorson & Shelley Fulsebakke.
take care Connie
 
 
 
Reply from Brenda Hoffman (68): Greenville, SC
 
Dear Gary,

Thank you for your kind remarks indicating that I was responsible for creating the Dunseith Blog PI Food Fund. Not true. You and Bernadette started it years ago, I just asked questions about why you felt the need to provide food and clothing for PI children at Christmas time. The result of those e-mails was a joint venture between you and I to share that info with those who read the Dunseith Blog.


And now I want to bring up my absolute favorite1960s Dunseith car. Many of you might remember that Ford introduced the Mustang in 1964 or 1965 with a great deal of fanfare. A short time after that announcement (at least I think it was a short time after), a beautiful blue mustang with a white top appeared in Dunseith. Don Johnson had bought THE car of the decade for Dick – only I didn’t know that for some time. Guess Don thought Dick needed to grow into it..or he just loved his Mustang as much as the rest of us did.

Brenda Hoffman – class of 1968
 
 
Alumni Reunion – Dunseith Monthly Newsletter and postings:
From Verena Gillis: Dunseith, ND.
 
> Hey ya all.
I personally do the monthly newsletters for the school and distribute them
all around town, local businesses. There was an announcement concerning
the reunion in the last two newsletters and there will be another in April
and May also.
Verena (see attachment)
 
Verena, This is Wonderful! You do great work!
Thank you much for posting around town and also with us on the Blog. Gary
 
 
 
 
  

03/10/2010

Posted on by
Earl Schneiderman:
Reply from Cheryl Haagenson (71): Dunseith, ND.
 

Greetings Gary

This is so late and so last decade, however Earl Schneiderman and his dad did live behind the Elvin Haagenson farm for a while. They lived in the house that belonged to my Aunt Alpha and Uncle Ed Gunderson. They, Ed and Alpha moved to Arizona due to my uncle’s health issues. Dad said that the reason the Schneiderman’s took shelter was because of a fire. They would stop sometimes for coffee on their way by. I recall Earl had big cars, but in those days most of the cars were big, perhaps loud would be more accurate. Dad thinks they stayed about a year. I remember when we left we inherited an Irish Setter!

Thanks for all you do Gary

 

Cheryl Haagenson
 
 
 
Reply from Dick Johnson (68): Dunseith, ND.
 
Gary and Friends,

Brenda and Dale opened the can of worms when they brought up cars.
I’ll try to keep my ‘dissertation’ short. Brenda mentioned the number of
cars you could legally sell in one year without a dealer’s license. In
1968 it was 5 cars. Dad got a letter from the state telling him he had
sold all he could without getting one. He had just sold off extra
vehicles and bought others, but it was too many according to them.

I do remember Barbara Schlaat’s, salmon and white, finned Plymouth.
I believe Emil and Ann Metcalfe bought it later and it eventually ended
up at Jim Birkland’s farm out in the trees. I think it’s still there.

In the summer of ’66, I was pumping gas at the Standard Station on
the north end of Main Street. A Canadian drove in with a big Oldsmobile
that was made in Canada. I opened the hood to check the oil and there
sat a dinky 250 cubic inch Chevy six cylinder engine. I saw the guy go
into the restroom so I thought he was out of earshot when I yelled at
John Bogus to come out and see what this guy put in his big car for an
engine. We were chuckling about it and hadn’t noticed that he had come
back out and was standing there listening. He gave me a snap lecture
about how, “I’ll have you know that is a factory engine and is all that
is needed to make this automobile function as well as anything you Yanks
have down here!” I’ll say–crap. The starter had as much torque as that
engine, but he was as proud of his car as he was of his ‘flat hat’. We
laughed out loud when he ‘powered away’ from the pumps. The Canadian
built cars had different chrome and also went by different names than
the American built cars of the same manufacture. Ford trucks were called
Mercurys, Mercury cars were called Meteors, and some Pontiacs were
actually Chevys with odd chrome.

Lamoureux Bros. Ford garage used to get model cars for each year of
production. They had these models displayed on a shelf in the showroom
and I used to go in and drool while looking at them. I asked several
times if I could have one, but they were all spoken for. The Lamoureux
Bros. used to give these model cars to kids when the new models (next
years) came in. I can remember as plain as if it were yesterday, Dad and
Jay Lamoureux and I went out shooting gophers at Ernest LaCroix’s farm
west of Dunseith on Good Friday, 1961–I was 10 going on 11. When we
went back into town, Jay said he had something for me if we stopped at
the shop. He handed me a baby blue 1961 Ford two door hardtop model car!
I thought I had the world by the tail! I kept it for many years but gave
it to someone when I was older.

It nearly impossible for me to stop talking about old cars so I’ll
just have to quit, as I promised! Thanks Gary!

Dick

 
 
 
Folks,
A very generous Dunseith Alumni couple provided funding for food for these three Filipino families pictured below. With the money they sent, we purchased three 25 KG bags of rice along with the other food items shown in the picture. These folks were so happy. After purchasing these items, we asked these three families to come to our house to pick up their grocieries. They repeatedly thanked Bernadette and me as they left. When the neighborhood heard we were doing this, folks started coming to our house thinking there was more. These three families all came back with thank you letters the next day that we forwarded onto the donors.
 
On a typical day, when these folks get up in the morning there is no food in their house. Family members will go out seeking ways to earn a little bit of money to provide a little food for their family for the day. They will try and find odd jobs here and there. Often times they will go around the neighborhood selling food items and other stuff on consignment. They are willing to do anything at all just to make a few Peso’s to feed their families. Many days they have very little and some days nothing at all to eat. In spite of all this, most are happy go lucky friendly folks with a smile.
 
With the donations we received yesterday, the Dunseith Alumni has helped 6 needy families. The Dunseith Alumni has currently contributed $238 for these folks. With the many needy families in our area, to simplify things, Bernadette and I have decided to merry up separate families for each donor. Subsequent donations that individual may send will go to the same family/families.
 
Brenda Hoffman (68) is the one that has spearhead this whole effort.
 
We have an FPO address (Regular US mail). Packages greater than one pound can not be sent to this address.
Gary Stokes
PSC 517 Box RS/CC
FPO AP 96517-1000
I have more info posted on our Dunseith Alumni Websitehttp://garystokes.net/SponsorFilipinoFamily.aspx
 
I have been rather busy lately, so I have not had a chance to post these latest pictures on the site.
 
Gary
 
 
 
 
Brudwick’s:
Reply from Neola Kofoid Garbe: Minot & Bottineau, ND.

Hi Ginger (and Gary).

 

This is interesting, but not 100% a surprise. A few years ago, I heard something about a Brudwick who might be related–I don’t know where I read/heard this. It caught my attention at the time, but nothing ever came of it. I don’t know of a Carl Brudwick who is a relative of the Bottineau Brudwick’s; Eileen Brudwick most likely has more information on distant Brudwick relatives than I do. Many people used, as a sir name, the town where they lived. This was the case with my great grandfather, Steffen Bruvik (On some letters, he’s signed it “Steffen Bruvik”; on others, he’s signed it “Steffen Bruvig”. My great grandfather and his wife, Ingrid Aasheim, lived in Bruvik, Norway (Bruvik is on the island of Osteroy.). Steffen/Ingrid had four children who lived to be adults: Anna, Arne, Anders/Andrew, Axel (American spelling).

 

Anna and her husband lived in Washington state; they had two daughters, Helen and Anita. Helen married and lived in Ferndale, Washington. She/her husband have three children–two boys and a girl. Anita married a Canadian and lived in Canada. She/her husband had two children–Carol and Larry, who both live in Canada. Carol is married and has, I think, 5 girls. Larry never married. Anna died when her daughters were quite young. Her husband remarried a few years later. Eileen, you know the history of Ole’s second marriage/children better than I do.

 

Arne moved to Blooming Prairie (later Bixby) Minnesota and married Mathilda. Arne/Mathilda had five children: Edward, Margaret, Merton, Agnes, Arnold. I don’t remember who Edward married. I think he/his wife had five children; I’ve only met two of his children—Shirley and Izzy. I think one son lives in Mankato, MN. As I understand it, Mathilda changed the spelling from Bruvik to Brudwick.

 

Andrew/Anders married my grandmother. They had six children: Emma, Milen, Alvina, Alice, Kenneth, Gerald. We are the “local” Brudwick’s.

 

Axel was killed when a ship he was working on, hit a mine that was left over from World War. He wasn’t married.

 

I know/have visited some of Steffen’s cousins/nieces, but I have never heard of a Carl. Again, Eileen would know more about this. If she doesn’t know, she’ll find out!! Right, Eileen?

 

Ginger, if you/any of your family members would like to visit about the Brudwick’s/visit Bottineau, I’d be happy to do so and meet them. :)
 
  

03/09/2010

Posted on by
Brudwick Relationship:
Question from Ginger LaRocque Poitra (65): Belcourt, ND.
 
>Gary,
I see the name Brudwick once in a while, and was curious if they might be
relatives of Carl Brudwick. Carl was married to my Aunt Cecelia (LaRocque)
Brudwick, I guess I should have been more inquisitive. Now all my dad’s
family are gone, Cecelia was the eldest. They lived in Aberdeen
Washington, and would come home on visits, They ran a restaurant, Aunt
Cecelia was a great cook I guess, she would come home with all sorts of
seafood and make a feast for my dad, he loved oysters especially, but
enjoyed all fish. She would also make lutefisk for him. Mom and dad also
went out there, and had scrumptious meals in her restaurant. Most of my
uncles lived out there all their married lives and some worked in logging,
or whatever it was called. I am really not so sure if Uncle Carl did the
same kind of work as is wife’s brothers. It would be interesting to know
if he was related to the Brudwicks from Bottineau. My brother mentioned
that he would go to Bottineau to visit someone. He and his wife have four
boys Walter, Dale, Lenny and Kenny. Lenny is my age I think.

Ginger

 
 
Lee Hosmer:
Reply from Cheryl Larson Dakin (71): BEDFORD, TX
 
Hi Gary:
I am thrilled to see Aunt Lee (Hosmer) added to our community. I know she has great stories to tell. Thanks Jan! Colette told us you were working on this. I had a great visit on the phone with Aunt Lee after I got back from Sante Fe/Albuquerque and look forward to seeing you all at the reunion we’re planning in July. (We’ve got to get going on this girls!)
Cheryl (Larson) Dakin
 
 
Dunseith School Song
Reply from Margaret Metcalfe Leonard (65): Rolette, ND
 
Gary, in response to Kenny Nerpel’s question about Dunseith’s school song.
 
If I remember correctly it was the Varsity and B team cheerleaders who came up with these words for the new school song, I remember Evie, I don’t remember who else but we were in the lunchroom in the old school. It was also our English classroom in the basement under the second grade class room.
 

Hurrah! for Dunseith High School

We’re out to win

You may have beat us once before,

but you can’t do that again.

Rah rah rah

Hurrah for Dunseith High School

Never give in

The boys who are going to win tonight

are the boys in the blue and white.

 

They probably have a different school song by now.

Margaret

 

Dunseith School Songs
Reply from Dick Johnson (68): djcars@hughes.net Dunseith, ND.

 

Gary and Friends,

In the last few messages we have been writing about the Dunseith
School song, ‘Our Director’. Bonnie Awalt Houle mentioned that Belcourt
used the same song. She is right. Rolla used ‘College Boy’ for theirs.
Dunseith had a good band in the 60s and we were chosen as THE band for
the district basketball tournament, being held in Rolla that year. There
was a rivalry between Rolla and Dunseith that was ongoing for years, as
mentioned here by both Gary Morgan and Darrell Fassett. We were on the
stage in Rolla and under the directing of my dad, played the school
songs for each team. When we started to play Rolla’s school song,
several of the Rolla band members took out their band instruments and
tried to overpower us and play faster than the band. They were sitting
across the gym from the band and blasting as loud and as fast as they
could. It was a very indecent display of arrogance. Dad brought the
entire band to a stop and just let them do their dirty deed. When we got
up to put our horns in the cases, Rolla folks started to take our
chairs, which were designated for the band for the entire night. Now Dad
is hot! He told them, in NO uncertain terms, to get out of the band
chairs and away from the band. When we got back to Dunseith and our
morning band practice the next day, he said, “It looks like we need to
learn to play Rolla’s song a little faster, so that’s all we are going
to do today!” The following night back in Rolla, they again brought our
the trumpets and other horns in the crowd and were ready to show the
band how to play. We played the school songs correctly for every team
and then played Rolla’s song about as fast as a mechanical sound device
could click. They wanted it fast, they got it. The Rolla kids couldn’t
begin to keep up and just put their horns down. Oh, by the way, we
played it without error and had a hearty applause from the rest of the
crowd who knew what was going on! I know there are many of the DHS band
members who are reading this entry and I bet can remember this incident.
Thanks Gary!

Dick

 

 

 

Reply to Dick Johnson (68):

From Dale Pritchard (63): Leesville, LA

Dick,

I traded a few emails with Brenda who told me about the car she had.
No, I don’t remember the Model A that Dale had but his ’55 Ford sure
caught my eye. Then for Brenda to come up with a Crown Victoria a few
short years later tells me the family all knew what they liked and went
looking for it. Cars from that time frame spread of about five years
had a lot of character and class that we will never see again.

Dale

 

 

Cars:

Reply from Brenda Hoffman (68): Greenville, SC

 

My Dad, Harvey Hoffman, has always loved cars – and selling just about anything. I don’t know what the legal limit for car sales by an individual in ND used to be, but I think my Dad met that limit most years we lived at the San. He probably should have been a car salesman instead of a baker, but I’m guessing he decided to be a baker because of the security jobs at the San provided.

 
He loved Ford cars (My mother’s father owned a Standard gas station and Ford dealership in Denhoff, ND) as anyone observed his purchases could note. Every two to three years, he bought a new Ford. If he didn’t like the design that year, they just waited for the next – not a different brand, just a different looking Ford. He also insisted on Standard gas.

 
Dick’s note brought up so many San Haven car memories. Jay Vanorney’s dad bought this beautiful rust colored Oldsmobile in the late 50s. And Barbara Schaalt and Clifford Magassun had matching Plymouths in the early 60s – both with push button shifts. One was white and salmon and the other was salmon and white. Of course, the big news was Dr. Caudrado’s silver blue Cadillac with those huge fins. And I remember waiting for our ’58 two tone blue Ford to arrive at the Dunseith dealership and knowing that it was outrageously priced at $2,000!
 
Do you remember the excitement in the 50s when the new models were introduced? The colors! And each brand had a new shape every year. How were the car makers able to do that? The retooling costs must have been unbelievable. I don’t know if this is still true, but the Canadians had yet a different design.
 
Somehow, Chuck Johnson managed to get these wonderful flip charts used by the dealership to help customers select colors and interiors. Brian and I played with them often – course they were Chevy flip charts but I wasn’t proud.
 
And for those of you who lived at the San, we all had heated garages for the cars. The garages were located behind the children’s building (I’m pretty sure that one was heated, but I can’t see how they were able to run the steam pipes out there). Another set beside the main Dr’s. house and the final set behind the hospital. A “normal” family activity for us on Friday night was washing the current car in the garage. Big thrill! Neither Cindy or I are particularly fond of washing cars for obvious reasons!
 
And yes, Dales first car was a bright red model A with yellow wheels. I remember Grandpa Schick, Dad and Dale working on the motor in our backyard when Dad first bought it for Dale. Then Dale graduated to his black and yellow 55 Ford, followed by my hot pink and white 55 Ford with pink and white leather interior. I thought I was so cool when I drove around in my white shorts and hot pink top – but it only lasted for a summer. Dad sold the car when I went to college. Guess the guy who bought it wrecked it without three months. Wonder what it would be worth now? I saw an identical one at a St. Paul car show a few years ago but guessing not many people bought that color combination in 1955.
Brenda Hoffman – class of 1968

 

 

 

Bev Morinville Azure (72 Deceased):

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

 

>Gary,
I am terrible, I was just able to read some of the e-mails and I saw what
Beverly Morinville,Azure wrote, How sweet, picture #2 the 5th person Lto
R is my sister Lana,she’s behind Patti Metcalfe.
I have to go to a meeting.
Ginger

Previouly posted with message 540 on 8/28/2009:
 
Reply from Bev Morinville Azure (72): Dunseith, ND.
 
Gary, In Picture number 3 I am sure the couple behind Patti etc is Ginger Belgarde and Tony Poitra whom she later married. I remember them so well cause Ginger worked at the cafe for my mom, and I always thought she was the prettiest girl in Dunseith.

GOD BLESS YOU …………BEV

Bev, I’m think you maybe meant Ginger LaRocque (65). This sure looks like Ginger to me too and yes she and Tony are married and live in Belcourt. I’m hoping Ginger has gotten her mail box cleared out. It’s been full the past several days. I know she’ll get it cleaned out when school starts. Gary
 
 
Confirmation picture names identified:
Posted by Neola Kofoid Garbe: Minot & Bottineau, ND.
  

03/08/2010

Posted on by
Request from Alan Poitra (76): Bloomington, MN
 
Hi Gary, can you add my sister and her husband to the email list . Leslie Peterson (Poitra) was from the class of 90 and Scott Peterson was from the class of 79. Thanks!!

They farm north of Kelvin Bar. Interesting but they did not know of the mini-reunion this summer in Dunseith. I know it was in the Turtle Mtn Star awhile back but not sure if there was anything posted.

I look forward to the get together in Dunseith. It will be nice to catch up with the old gang once again!!!

Al Poitra (class of 76)

Alan, We will see about posting some fliers around town. That’s a great idea.
Leslie & Scott, I have added you to our daily distribution. We are hoping to see you guys at the reunion on May 22nd too. Gary
 
 
Request posted on the Dunseith Alumni Website:
 
From: Rod Parrill
E-mail: Message:
Please add me to your list of update recipients.
Rod, It’ a pleasure to add you to our list. I know you transferred to and graduated from Bottineau with redistricting. I’m guessing you were in the class of 73, so I will include you with that year. Please correct me if I’m wrong.
Your parents, Thurman & Marie Parrill are my god parents too. Gary
 
 
Cote Sister’s photo posted yesterday:
Reply from Connie (Roger) Zorn Landsverk: Bottineau, ND
 
hi Gary, I would like to comment on the photo of the Cote sisters. It’s nice photo. I’ve known all 5 of those ladies from working @ the Good Samaritan Center. I had lots of visits with Evelyn–& I visit with Alice each time I volunteer or stop @ Good Sam. I guess Evelyn is living in Rugby now. I think @ a Nursing Home. I think there was some boys in that cote family too!! Take Care Connie
 
 
 
Leona Hosmer:
Reply from Jan Hosmer Cobb (60): Wilsonville, OR
Gary,

Thanks for the warm welcome you extended to my mother, Leona Hosmer. To answer your question:

Leona lives in a lovely apartment just a mile from me in Wilsonville, Oregon. Wilsonville, like Dunseith, is a small town. She walks everywhere: grocery store, bank, dentist, hair dresser, drug store, library, community center, restaurants, parks, and even a fun pub “where everybody knows your name” – are all within a few blocks.

 
We play bridge together, occasionally competing in tournaments. She is still my teacher and with her lead, we usually do well. We have over 100 Master Points.

It is such a treat having her close by at this time in our lives. She models for me every day on how to grow older with grace, intelligence, charm and and curiosity. She is always surprising me with her desire to expand her world, to see and try new things. Learning computer skills and joining the community you have created is just the most recent of her adventures.

Jan (Hosmer) Cobb
 
 
 
Reply From Dick Johnson (68): Dunseith, ND.
 
Gary and Friends,

Dale Pritchard remembers Dale Hoffman’s black and yellow ’55 Ford.
Dale, do you remember Dale Hoffman’s first car? He had a bright red
Model A Ford coupe that was the nicest little coupe in the country! His
little sis, Brenda (68) had a pretty pink and white ’55 Ford Victoria
two door hardtop. Those were all real cream puff cars that their dad
located for them, I believe. Harvey had an eye for classy cars! Any time
I ever saw Harvey, he had a clean and shiny car no matter what time of
the year it was. Thanks Gary!

Dick

 
 
Message from DeAnn Gottbreht’s Carringbridge Website:
 
It has been an amazing couple of weeks! Patrick and I were married on Wednesday March 3 at 6:30 pm in a gazebo in Island Park here in Fargo. My dream of having an outside wedding came true! The gazebo is in the middle of the park surrounded by trees and snow. It was a cool night but the ceremony was beautiful in the twilight. Now I am a very proud wife and mother! We will still have our large wedding in October so this one was just for us and Connor.

Connor is doing great. I just left the hospital a little while ago and he was sleeping soundly. The doctor increased his feedings amount a little today and his weight is up to 4lbs 3oz. He is completely off of IV’s now and hopefully will start growing quickly. We do not know how long he will have to stay in there but the doctors tell me he is doing great so what more could I ask for!

 
 
 
Hello from Costa Rica:
Message/Picture from Trish Larson Wild (73): FORT COLLINS, CO
 
Just finished a morning ride on Criollo ponies in a town called Mal Pais, which means “bad country” because the rough mountains come down to the shore. My horse won the race down the beach…! I return on march 9th and have decided to get my act together as soon as possible for living on horseback. Pura Vida!! Trish

 
 
 
Conrad/Mildred Atherton Langehaug’s Family Picture:
Posted by Neola Kofoid Garbe: Minot & Bottineau, ND.
 
Gary,
 
Here’s Myron email:
Hi, The missing names are Marilyn, GloriAnn, Rodney, Arnold, and Kenneth. And now here’s the story behind this photo. My mother insisted that we have a family picture before I left for the Army. The time is December 1969 on the day that I left for Active Duty Fort Leonard Wood, Mo. Thanks Myron
Neola, Evie is married to Rodney Kalk (61). Rod & Evie live up at Lake Metigoshe.
 
Conrad/Mildred Atherton Langehaug’s Family
 
 
 

Confirmation Picture:

Posted by Neola Kofoid Garbe: Minot & Bottineau, ND.

Folks, I know I know most everyone in this photo, but I don’t want to start guessing.
That looks like one of the Lagerquist boys in the back with glasses?
Please reply with names. I will repost. Thanks, Gary
 
 
 
 
Confirmation Picture reposted with correction:
Neola Kofoid Garbe: Minot & Bottineau, ND.
 
Hi Gary,

 

Thanks to Dick Johnson and Eileen Brudwick, I now have the correct “first” name for Pastor Bakken. :)

 

Neola

  

03/07/2010

Posted on by
Leona Hosmer:
Request from Jan Hosmer Cobb (60): Wilsonville, OR
 
 
Gary,

 

Please add my mother, Leona Hosmer to your list. She would enjoy getting your newsletter.

 

Thank you

jan

Jan, where is you mother living now? I know many of our readers know and remember your mother well. She is from the Richard family too. Thanks for including her.
 
Leona, we’d love to hear from you too. Gary
 

 

Dunseith School Song:

Reply from Blanche Wicks Schley (42): Grand Forks, ND.

 

It was interesting to read the Dunseith school song and the notation on the boys. There is a movement (or perhaps just an idea as this time) regarding the national anthem of Canada. This group feels that the song should be more nongender — at the present it says “the patriot love in all thy sons command”.

 

Perhaps this world is going to the side of political correctness a bit too far
 
 
 
 
Dale Pritchard (63):
From Brenda Hoffman (68): Greenville, SC
 

Dear Gary,

Dale Pritchard sent me an overview of his travels and adventures with the US Air Force and other military branches. I thought the Dunseith blog readers would be as interested as I was.

 

Brenda, It is my pleasure to post this. Dale has most certainly had a very interesting career. Gary
 
Hi Brenda,
I’ll answer your letter so I can procrastinate on something I should be doing. My Air Force time was all spent in aircraft maintenance, starting as the lowest paid wrench carrier. In my last 5 years, I supervised about 75 people 24 hours a day, 7 days a week in one of three different areas we had. Then I moved from that to being the overall supervisor of all three sections, about 450 people. I then spent two years supervising the scheduling of missions and scheduled maintenance. Because of that job, I got promoted to Superintendent of Aircraft Quality Assurance with only 20 people under me.
 
My first base was a two year tour in Japan, of which I spent most of my time in Viet Nam. I then ended up at Langley AFB in Virginia. Much of my time there was spent in Europe. Then on to Taiwan (or the Republic of Formosa) where I ended back in Viet Nam again. I came back from there and went to Topeka, Kansas where I continued the 3-month rotations to Europe. The base at Topeka closed in the summer of 73 and I got sent to the base of Little Rock, Arkansas. European rotations again! From there I landed in Okinawa for eight months after which they moved me to Japan, just five miles from where I was stationed the first time. During my Okinawan time, I again spent a lot of time in Viet Nam and was there with a team repairing one of our planes the day before Saigon got overrun. Got out just in time. When I left Japan, I got sent to Abilene, Texas. Because there was no more Viet Nam, I got stuck in Abilene for eight years.

Memorable parts include getting to see about 95% of the countries in Europe, including England, Germany, Norway, Italy, France, Greece, Turkey. I forget the rest now except Poland. Being a communist country, we had to paint over the US markings on the plane and fly in civilian clothes. I also made it into many of the islands in the Pacific. Korea, the Philippines, Pakistan, Iran and Indonesia. The memory is getting away and I’m rambling here.
 
Because of my service connected Quality Assurance time, I got my first Government job for the Army as a Quality Assurance evaluator at an ammunition plant in South Mississippi. They closed after 4 years and I got sent to a Defense Logistics Agency supply depot at Memphis, TN. They closed after I had been there 5 years and I got sent down to Fort Polk, LA where I have been now for 14 years as a Contracting Officer’s Representative working Contract Quality Assurance. It’s ironic that I spent 20 years in the Air Force and will spend another 24 or so working for the Army.
 
As a small farm kid, at graduation time, I never dreamed how things would work out for me. How I would get to see a small part of so many countries (add Africa and South America to the list above). I do not regret the experience, but I wouldn’t want to go through it again.
 
Carol is married to the county sheriff of Yokum County, Texas and has three kids who are all married now and some grandchildren. I am married with two children, one of each but no grandchildren yet. Our daughter is now 26, married and living outside Washington DC in Fairfax. Our son is 32, and because of a severe head injury as a teenager, he will be with us forever.
 
It is truly amazing that so many small town area kids can get into such a wide variety of careers, live in so many different places, do so much good, and turn into such good folks in the process. Guess I better get back to work even though it is Friday.

Hey, I still remember Dale’s black and yellow 55 ford. That was the best looking car I had ever seen up to that point.
Dale
 
 
Judge Ketterling passed away:
From Neola Kofoid Garbe: Minot & Bottineau, ND
 

From CaringBridge:

It is with a very heavy heart but also a peaceful one that I make this journal entry. Lester passed away this morning around 2:15. The nurse informed that it was a very peaceful death. I am sure this comes as a shock to many of you. I have sat with Lester many days and could see his decline so for me it is such a relief that he is now being comforted by God’s loving arms. Jeremy was able to be here and say his goodbyes. Unfortunately Jeremy and Lester weren’t able to communicate with each other but they have had so many wonderful times and also Jeremy was aware of his dad’s decline.
I don’t know any details as of yet but will inform you as soon as I can. Jeremy and I will be flying to Bismarck on Monday night. My brother will pick us up and bring us home.
Thanks again for all your prayers cards. calls. emails and concerns.
I pray that God will all give you some peace with the shocking news about Lester.
God bless all of you
Ketterling’s
 
 
 
Mel Kuhn’s (70) mother, Alice Cote Kuhn:
From Neola Kofoid Garbe: Minot & Bottineau, ND
 

Hi,

 

I visited Mom this afternoon at Good Sam. When I was in the hall, I saw a lady I thought was Mel’s mom. She was. :) She was dressed so nicely/had a big smile/lovely lady. I think I’ve mentioned her room is very close to my Mom’s room.

 

Neola

Previously posted with message 277 on November 8, 2009:
 
Reply to the Cote sister’s picture from Mel Kuhn (70):
 
Gary,
 
Boy, you put a lot on to an old CRS guy, but here goes. Standing left is Lillian [Bill]Allard, they lived in Overly for many years. Lillian is the youngest of the 5 sisters. Standing center is my mom, Alice[Marvin]Kuhn. Standing right is Evelyn[Phillip]Seneshal, they farmed and lived in the Overly area for many years. Evelyn is the oldest of the 5 sisters. Sitting left is Adeline[Fred]Allard, she is Alden and Merle’s mom, I believe you would know them. Sitting right is Olivine[John]Allard, again using names you would know she is Carol and Larry’s mom. If I provide very little information it leaves less room for error. Carol could give a lot better history then I can. Maybe we could talk her into doing so?
 
We’ve just had the first of this winter’s blizzards. It looks like 8-10 inches of snow here, and as Dick said some lovely 40 mph winds. The electricity is still out in many places. I got called in to Park View where I had to scrounge up a couple of generators to get some light and heat going for the old folks. The powers that be who built the place decided that it was more important that they eat off of $3000.00 solid oak tables then to have a standby power plant. It was a good thing that I had the heat all up in the floor. That will hold at a comfortable temp for many hours for people like us, but not for old folks. If it gets under 75 they start complaining. When I came home from work last night volunteers were busy at work trying to clean the snow off the football field in St. John. We are supposed to play a game today[Sat] to see who moves along to play for first place in State. It could be interesting. Later.
 
Mel
 
Standing: Lillian Allard, Alice Kuhn & Evelyn Seneshal
Sitting: Adeline Allard & Olivine Allard
 

 

 

 

Posted by Neola Kofoid Garbe: Minot & Bottineau, ND

Neola, Your are right, this is Diane Larson Sjol (70).
Thank you so much for sharing. Gary
 

 

Posted by Neola Kofoid Garbe: Minot & Bottineau, ND

 
 

 

 

 

 

  

03/06/2010

Posted on by
Reply from Lorraine Richard Nelson (46): Mesa, AZ.
 
Hi Gary.. I , Lorraine Richard, at that time in my life..attented my jr. and senior year in Dunsieith.. My classmates were Dorthy, Darrell and those great folks. Thanks.. Wayne and I are now Mesa AZ residents..but head back to the Tutle Mts. every once in a while, as that is where I was raised, and our grandson Bryan Schweitzer, is owner of State Farm Agency in Bottineau. Lorraine Nelson
Folks, Thanks to Darrel and Dorothy Fassett for referring Lorraine (Wayne) Richard Nelson to us. I just sent Lorraine the Richard Matrix that I put together asking her where she fits into the Richard family.
 
Thanks for this reply Lorraine. We are excited to hear more from you. Gary
 
 
 
The Dunseith School Song:
From Bonnie Awalt Houle (56): Becker, MN
 
Good Morning Gary,
In answer to Kenny Nerpel:
Dunseith School Song
Hurrah for Dunseith High School we’re out to win,
You may have beat us once before but you won’t do that again. Rah, Rah, Rah,
Hurrah for Dunseith High School we’re out to fight
The Boy’s that are going to win tonight are the Boy’s in the Blue and White.
Rah, Rah, Rah, (actually 15 Rahs)
 
The Girl’s Basketball Team had no cheerleaders and we had no other female teams so I guess no one was bothered by the phrase (The Boy’s that are going to win tonight are the Boy’s in the Blue and White.) Today that would be a BIG ISSUE!
 
Our song was sung to the same tune as the one used by Belcourt. In one Tournament game both the Belcourt Cheerleaders and the Dunseith Cheerleaders were out on the floor at the same time doing their different songs. Neither group backed down and we both finished together.
 
Bonnie Awalt Houle (56)
 
 

The Dunseith School Song:

From Dick Johnson (68): Dunseith, ND.
 
Gary,

This is the banter between Lola and me about the school song. She remembers it well!

Dick

Gary and Friends,

Kenny Nerpel asked about the Dunseith School Song. It’s ‘Our
Director’ but I can only remember part of the words. It starts out —
“Hurrah for Dunseith High School” and ends with “the boys that are going
to win tonight are the boys in the blue and white.” I think I have that
much right, but our many cheerleaders should be able to cover for me on
this one! Thanks Gary!

Dick

Dick’s message to Lola Metcalfe Vanorny (68):
Lola,

Hey there cheerleader, do I have this right? There are more words
that I remember but not how they fit together. Maybe you could send the
words to Gary if you remember. Thanks.

Dick

Lola’s Reply:

Oh Brother a blank but this is what comes to mind– seems kind of screwy though

Hurrah for Dunseith High school
We’re out to win
You may have beat us once before
But you won’t do that again-rahrahrah!-

Hurrah for Dunseith High School
We’re out to fight
For the boys that are going to win tonight
Are the boys in the Blue and White—

or something like that!__ HA!!

 
 
 
Picture from Neola Kofoid Garbe: Bottineau & Minot, ND.
Gary,
 
Has this grad been included in your newsletters? She graduated in 1971. I checked with Karen Larson, a Bottineau High School member of the Class of ’71–she didn’t recognize this grad.
 
Neola
Neola, I think this girl was identified as being from Dunseith. Without a name, I’m not sure.
 
Folks, do any of you recognize this gal? Gary
 
 

  

03/05/2010

Posted on by
Reply to the Confirmation picture posted with message 730 on 2/28/10:
From Sharon Longie Dana (73): MIssoula MT
 

 

To Brenda Hiatt(73)
 
Thats the Brenda I remember…………………………………..you look great !!!!!!
 
Sharon Longie Dana(73)
Sharon, I just noticed I had not posted this. I am so sorry for the delay. Gary
 
 
 
Qustion from Kenny Nerpel (65): Rugby, ND.
 
Gary,
 
I’m wondering if anyone on the distribution list knows the name of and the words to the Dunseith High School song.
 
The District 11 basketball tournament was held here (Rugby) and both Dunseith and Rugby advanced to the Regional with 3 point wins.
 
Kenny
 
 
 
Ackworth School Picture posted several weeks ago:
Reply from Dick Johnson (68): Dunseith, ND.
 
Gary and Friends,Today I stopped in a Northland Builders in Dunseith and talked with
Stan and Joan Salmonson about the rural school picture sent in by Mary
Eurich Knutson. The schoolhouse that Glen Honsey moved to his farm was
the Lockhart School from Little Prairie. Stan attended several years in
the school and remembers it very well. He also attended one term at
Ackworth before the consolidation with the Dunseith Public Schools. He
told me that the Hilltop school was the one that was moved to a spot
near Carl Wicks’ residence along Highway 43 to be used as a township
hall. I remember we voted in this building in the mid 70s. He thinks
this building may have burned down. The Lockhart school sat on one of
the flattest spots in the hills so it definitely is not the one in the
picture. It would seem that Mary’s picture must be of the Ackworth
school, in it’s first location. Hank Salmonson was also at the
lumberyard and concurred with the decision. Hank remembered them having
‘play days’ at the Ackworth School, which is the one he also attended.
Thanks to Stan, Joan, and Hank. Thanks Gary!

Dick

Dick, The road used to be higher, as shown in the picture, than if was years later. When I was about 5 years old they rebuilt that road and lowered the road in front of the school some. The hill, a quarter of a mile to the west of the school, was known as the crooked hill with the curvy bend in the middle of the hill. That was straightened out too, when they rebuilt the road. That hill is still referred to as the crooked hill. When Norman Hiatt used to move hay stacks, he’d often times get stuck between the Crooked hill and the School house hill. Most of the time he was going east and couldn’t get up over the school house hill. We’d love to watch the action from inside the school. With enough of his tractors and some of the neighbors tractors hooked on the front of the stackmover he’d eventually get up the hill.
 
In my really younger days, I remember those ‘play days’ held each year at the schools too. They were a lot of fun and drew a lot of folks. They played a lot of fun games. That very well may have been a ‘play day’ that was being held when that picture was taken.
 
My mother had stationary with a picture of the Ackworth school that very much resembled this picture too. I’ll see if I can find that in my stuff. Gary
 
 
Reply from Brenda Hoffman (68): Greenville, SC
 
Whoops. I neglected to indicate that my response to Gary’s wonderful birthday greetings were not for the daily blog. Sorry about that. Brenda
Brenda, I am so sorry this got posted, but I know with what you had to say many of us can relate the same to with our lives too. Gary
 
 
Reply from Neola Kofoid Garbe: Minot & Bottineau, ND.
 
Hi Gary,
 
I was surprised to see Sam/Mom/me in your newsletter. :) You are right–70 isn’t old these days. I’m hoping to continue making caramels/scanning, saving, sharing pictures/other projects for many years. :)
 
Neola
 
 
 
From Sharron Gottbreht Shen (59): Everett, WA.
 
Perhaps the Knox family has a story to tell about their grandfather, b NY, who was also a Civil War Vet. John Sebastian Gottbreht was trooper in Nebraska 5th Cav. Was at the battle of Whitestone Hill about 1863. Sharron
 
 
 
 
From Neola Kofoid Garbe: Minot & Bottineau, ND.
 
Gary,
 
I THINK someone mentioned the benefit for Gene Bender. here’s a picture of him/his wife/Mr. Brooks.
 
Neola
 
Neola, Larry Brooks is married to Kristy Hagen, daughter of Orville and Gloria. Larry I believe is a professor at the ‘Dakota College at Bottineau’, formally the Forestry. Gary
  

03/04/2010

Posted on by
Request from Ginger LaRocque Poitra (65): Belcourt, ND
 
Gary,

I work with Arlene (Nadeau) Davis, she is the director of Special
Education in our school. She attended school in Dunseith, I forgot to ask
her the year she graduated. She would like to be added to our e-mails.
Ginger

Ginger, It is my pleasure to add Arlene to our distribution.
Arlene, Please let us know your school year? Thanks, Gary
 
 
Reply from Brenda Hoffman (68): Greenville, SC
 
Thank you Gary. How nice of you to remember. Yes I am just hours away from the big 60. It doesn’t seem possible does it that we are no longer teen-agers or young adults? I still feel that way often inside – there is no way that I can sit still while listening to Tina Turner’s “Proud Mary” and in comparison doesn’t most of today’s music sound dull and boring? I wonder if our parents felt/feel the same about our music…and thoughts. And so it goes. Thank you again for remembering…and allowing me to remember a bit.
 
 
 
Judge Ketterling’s address:
From Neola Kofoid Garbe: Bottineau & Minot, ND.
 

From Eunice Ketterling on Judge Ketterling’s CaringBridge site. Neola

 

Just a note the address here is 2136 Leisure World Mesa AZ 85206 – 5348. I have received some cards with 1236 instead of 2136.

Thank you.

http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/lesterketterling
 
 
 
 
 
 
I am happy to report Connor and I are doing great! I started chemo again on Monday. It was my second treatment of 12 weekly treatments. Other than dealing with how much I hate getting IV’s put in it went fine. I really had no side effects other than being tired. I am healing well from the birth of Connor and hope to be back to normal soon.

Connor is really doing great as I said. He has started gaining weight and is almost 4 lbs. All premature babies go through a time of losing weight before they start gaining when they are born so he is right on track. He is also completely off oxygen and breaths great on his own. This is a huge milestone for him since lung development in preemies is one of the major concerns. They also have been increasing his feeding amounts daily and he is handling it well. He learned to suck on his pacifier quickly and that was also a sign he needed more food! He is definitely a growing boy. I get to hold him for about an hour at a time and it is truly the highlight of my day! They will not tell us how long he may have to stay in the NICU but at the great rate of improvement he has had I hope it is no more than a month. I can’t wait to get him home. Patrick is here as well for a couple of days and we are enjoying our family time together! Please keep us in your prayers.

 
 
 
Proud Great Grandma:
From Marge Longie Langan-Wilcox (56): Vancouver, Wa
 
Gary,
I am the proud great grandma of a great son born yesterday to my grandson Darrell.
he born at 9:21 pacific northwest time they named him Tanner Lee he weighed
7# 2 oz and 21″ tall….. very pretty baby. This makes # 9 great grandchild for me.
he weighed the same as his grandma Eunice did.
 
Marge Langan-Wilcox
Congratuations Marge, Gary
 
 
Appalachian Mountains:
Reply from Gary Fulsebakke (71): Devils Lake, ND
 
Dear Gary,
Having lived in Virginia for over 25 years, I also have an
appreciation for the Appalachians and its sister ranges, the Blue
Ridge, Smokies and Alleganies. I often would travel the Blue Ridge
Parkway, just a few miles from where I live at Smith Mountain Lake,
or hike portions of the Appalachian Trail which follows the same
basic route as the Parkway. The views are fantastic! One has the
illusion of being in an airplane as you can often see both sides of
the mountain as the road usually follows the crest of the mountains.
One of my favorite places is the Peaks of Otter, twin peaks which are
two of the highest mountains in the range and originally surveyed by
George Washington. There is also a beautiful lake at the foot of the
Peaks which one can enjoy from the lodge and restaurant on its shore.
Some other great places are Colonial Williamsburg, Busch Gardens,
Washington D.C. Virginia Beach, Montecello, and the Biltmore estate
in North Carolina. Its a great place to live. Gary Fulsebakke
 
 

Appalachian Mountains:

Reply from Allen Richard (65): Midland, MI

Thanks for the memory of the area. Skyline Drive really can’t be described or compared. It is what it is and it is beautiful.

 

Other areas — more off Highway places are very interesting too — especially for history and Civil War buffs. Driving those roads in a sporty car is the best way to go. Who knows — If this becomes a plan and i can make it, Big IF — my goal would be to take ol’ Dakota Midnight on a road trip. Made it to the MINNEAPPLE last fall — but 13 mpg on premium is an issue — to my wife!

 

Allen

 
 
 

Appalachian Mountains:

Reply/Picture from Ken Striker: Dayton OH
Gary-
 
The painting I attached as jpeg pic is entitled “The Virginia Turnpike,” popularly described as “Army Supply train in the Shenandoah Valley”
 
Ken

Reply to the Appalachian Mountains:

On the subject of Appalachian Mountains, I would like to contribute that the location and geography of the Shenandoah Valley that parallels the Blue Ridge Mts to the east gave it significant military importance during the Civil War. Its south west to northeast direction provided for the Confederacy an ideal Avenue of Invasion. Of interest to descendants of Wm Elmer Striker who homesteaded in Rolette Co ND, his Uncle William Striker of Ohio was a Civil War Veteran, having participated in several battles from Winchester Va down the Shenandoah Valley to New Market. I have visited that area and saw the areas of the CW Battles. My visit was capped off by a drive down Skyline Drive and a visit to Hall of Valor, Civil War Museum New Market Battlefield State Park. See Painting by Johannes A. Oertel

 

 

Neola’s 70th Birthday Party:

From Neola Kofoid Garbe: Bottineau & Minot, ND.

 

My cousin, Debby Brudwick Sapp, and her family arranged a family party for my 70th birthday. It was held in the south solarium at Good Samaritan. The fellow in the background lives at Good Samaritan, as does Mom. Before the party started, Sam (Plorin) decided to check out the party. The bruise on Mom’s face was caused by a fall; thankfully, other than the bruise (bad enough!), she wasn’t hurt.

 

Neola

Congratulations Neola! You are so young. The older we get, what was once considered old, all of a sudden is not so old after all. I know you’ll probably be going strong 30 years from now too. Gary
 
 
  

03/03/2010

Posted on by
Happy Birthday Brenda Hoffman (68):
 
Brenda, I believe today, March 3rd is your birthday. We wish you the happiest birthday ever. Enjoy. Gary
 
 
 
 
Reply from Traci Zahn: Pittsburg, PA
 
My mom is Shirley (Pritchard) and my dad is Verble Zahn from Westhope. I grew up in the Landa/Westhope area but remember many good times and people from my time spend at my Grandparent’s farm. I love checking this site daily and learning new things about my family and friends from the area as well as catching up on the lives of people I haven’t seen or heard about in years.
 
I am currently living in Pittsburgh, PA. I have been in this area for about 12 years. I do miss the culture and ease of North Dakota but not the slow pace and bad winters.
 
Thank you so much for all the work you put into this site, it is greatly appreciated.
 
Traci
 
 
 
Reply to pictures posted yesterday by Myra Henning Halvorson (72):
From Marlys Hiatt (71): Dunseith, ND
 
I really enjoyed those pictures. Thanks Myra, for sharing them.

Marlys

 
 
 
Reply from Pam Lagerquist (68): Seattle, WA
 
Hey Gary unfortunately I don’t think I’ll be making the reunion, I have relocated out to Seattle area with my son and we’re looking at medical situation out here. Thank you Pam Lagerquist
We are so sorry you will not be able to attend the reunion. We are hoping all is well with you. Gary
 
 
Reply to the Appalachian Mountains:
From Keith Pladson (66): Stafford, VA
 
Gary,
Just a little addition to Kenny Nerpel’s and Allen Richard’s comments on/about the Appalachian Mountains. Alice (originally from Louisville, KY) and I have lived here in Virginia for 40 years now and have made many trips up in the mountains just to the west. I’ve always thought that one of the most beautiful trips is to drive down Skyline Drive in the Fall as the leaves are turning color. Skyline Drive starts at Front Royal, VA and runs south, southwest for approximately 80 miles along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains to Waynesboro, VA at which point it becomes the Blue Ridge Parkway and continues on for another 100 miles or so. The Blue Ridge Mountains are the eastern most range in the Appalachian chain and extend through Virginia and North Carolina. Along the drive, there are many pullouts with beautiful panoramic views of the Piedmont (the rolling wooded hills) to the east and the Shenandoah Valley and the higher and much larger mountains in the distance to the west. Its always a thrill for us to go up there in the fall.

Also, we have visited the Gatlinburg, TN area many times. Angela (our youngest daughter) and I have hiked several of the hiking trails in the Great Smokey Mountains National Park (also part of the Appalachian chain) and thoroughly enjoyed each of our hikes. We’ve also been lucky enough to see Elk, Moose, Black Bear and Wild Boars in the mountains during different trip to that area. Attractions within a few hours driving time include mining for semi-precious gems in North Carolina, hiking the mountain trails in the National Park, enjoying a day at Dollywood (a large amusement park), numerous shows in both Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, fishing on either Douglas or Cherokee lake (TVA dams just to the north of Pigeon Forge) and for me enjoying the numerous go cart tracks. There truly is plenty to do and all you need is a pocket (or perhaps bucket) full of money and a few days of time.

Thanks Gary,
Keith Pladson (66)

  

03/02/2010

Posted on by
Memories of Judge Ketterling:
From Ginger LaRocque Poitra (65):
 
>Gary

I was reading about Judge Ketterling having a good sense of humor. I
guess this very young lady went to his court and was wearing red western
cowboy boots. He says to her if you think those fancy red boots are going
to get you out of anything young lady your mistaken. She just looked and
thought to herself, I thought he was blind.

Ginger

 
 
 
Reply to Trish Larson Wild (73):
From Lynn Otto (75): Seoul, Korea
 

This is a response to Trish’s great adventure plans.

Hi Trish, you don’t remember me but I’m Lynn Halvorson Otto, my older sister you might have known better is Gail Halvorson Schuler. I graduated in 75 but anyway, I just read your plans for a 9000 mile journey through the Americas. I’m awed and truly amazed at your courage to do this. I can’t imagine the logistics in planning all of this. Do you have to make all governments aware of your plans in advance with border issues, etc. ?
I lived with my family in Brazil for two years and traveling there, through the amazon I can’t imagine going through these places on horseback.
I just want to wish you all the luck with this and hope you’ll be safe along the way.
Best regards,
Lynn Otto

 
 
 
Reply from Vickie Metcalfe (70): Bottineau, ND.
 
Gary,
YES. Kristie(Hagen) Brooks and her family live on the
Lindberg site. The Hagens and Lindbergs are related. The Hagen
cousins, Orville and Clarence were cousins to Elmer and his sister
Alice(Lindberg) McKay.
My good friend Karen (Hagen) Simon (Clarence and Mary Ann)
attended Ackworth School too. I first met Karen when she came into
Mrs.Conroys fourth grade class when she transferred into Dunseith
School. Through the years I also was quite privileged to meet her
Grandpa Hagen who lived with the family of Clarence and Mary Ann.
Vickie
 
 
 
Pictures from Myra Henning Halvorson (72): Bottineau, ND.
 
Hello Gary!

Hope this finds you and Bernadette doing well. I ran across a couple of pictures I thought I would share with you and your readers. These were taken in ’71 and ’72 at proms, homecoming and at a basketball tournament. The girls from the class of ’72 in pictures 1 and 2 were from left to right: Kathy Schimetz, Ann Marie Boppre, Loraine Neameyer, Myra Henning, Gail Halvorson, Loretta Neameyer and Linda Johnson. The second picture was taken at the prom when they were seniors. They are Loretta, Loraine, Myra, Gail, Kathy, Linda and Donna DuBois. The third picture is of some of the girls from the class of ’73. They are Trish Larson, LeaRae Hagel, Pam Fugere, Cathy Campbell, Lynn Gillis, Edith Struck, Becky Coleman, Laura Fettig and Marquita Counts. Then there’s Coach Larry Haugen being held up by his some of the ’71-’72 team members. Pictured are from left to right: Lyle Olson, Greg Evans, Don Olson and Jim Mellmer after winning either a district or regional tournment and getting a handshake from Supt. Leo Fettig. That team went on to the State Tounament at the Minot Auditorium where they took 5th place. Starters on that team were: Curt Berg, Jim Mellmer, Don Olson, Greg Evans and Terry (Pie) Counts. The black and white picture was a float from the Homecoming parade in the fall of ’71. On the float are Gail Halvorson, Greg Hill, King Greg Evans, Queen Loraine Neameyer, Curt Hagel and Myra Henning. Thanks Gary! Myra (Henning) Halvorson ’72

DHS class of 72 girls L to R:
Kathy Schimetz, Ann Marie Boppre, Loraine Neameyer, Myra Henning,
Gail Halvorson, Loretta Neameyer and Linda Johnson

 

 

 

DHS class of 72 girls L to R:

 

Loretta Neameyer, LoraineNeameyer, Myra Henning, Gail Halvorson,

 

Kathy Schimetz, Linda Johnson and Donna DuBois

 

 

DHS class of 73 girls L to R:

Trish Larson, LeaRae Hagel, Pam Fugere, Cathy Campbell, Lynn Gillis,

Edith Struck, Becky Coleman, Laura Fettig and Marquita Counts

 

 

 

Homecoming parade in the fall of ’71:

 

Gail Halvorson, Greg Hill, King Greg Evans, Queen Loraine Neameyer,

 

Curt Hagel and Myra Henning

 

 

 

Coach Larry Haugen being held up by his some of the ’71-’72 team members.

 

L to R: Lyle Olson, Greg Evans, Don Olson and Jim Mellmer

 

 
 
 
Reunion Tee Shirt:
From Verena Gillis: Dunseith, ND.
 
Gary,
Could you please post this on the blog? This is what the T-Shirt is going
to look like. The date will also be on the bottom of the all school
reunion in white lettering.

Thanks,
Verena :)

 
 

03/01/2010

Posted on by
Reply from Virgil Rude: Minot, ND.
 
Hello Gary,
Thanks for sharing the pictures of Ackworth School and my old school
which was named “Happy Hill School ” which was later given to Homen
Township as a town hall when the school was closed. My mother attended
Ackworth and I believe your father attended at the same time. As ever,
Virgil R
Virgil, I wasn’t aware that you mother, Voila Bjornseth Rude, attended Ackworth, but with the Pritchard’s and other close neighbors of hers having attended Ackworth, it stands to reason that she would have too. Gary
 
 
Reply to Kenny Nerpel’s posting posted yesterday:
from Allen Richard (65): Midland, MI

I’ve been to that general area several times since leaving ND for MN, DC and MI. It is always beautiful, and driving in some of the areas of Appalachia are as challenging as they are fun and educational. I’ve done those trips with Susan and her parents, Susan, Alaina and my older kids, and just for the hell of it when we lived in DC. There is a beauty there that is unequaled anywhere.

 

A rendezvous is not a bad Idea— Say Gattlinburg — Dollywood? And there is always Nashville!!!!!

 

Allen
 
 
 
 
International Peace Garden – Connie Peterson Lagerquist (74):
Posted by Vickie Metcalfe (70): Bottineau, ND.
 
Note article in todays Minot Daily http://minotdailynews.com/

BORDERLINE BEAUTIFUL

Connie (Peterson)’74 Lagerquist (daughter of Lorraine and Duane Peterson)

 
 
Connie Lagerquist, staff horticulturist, maintains many plants during
the winter months at this International Peace Garden’s greenhouse.
Lagerquist also starts new plants from seed each winter that are
destined to be transplanted throughout the Peace Garden
 
 
Athlete of the Week photo posted yesterday:
Reply from Vickie Metcalfe (70): Bottineau, ND.
 
Gary,
Please note: athlete of the week photo in the Bottineau
Courant posted in the blog, The three seniors are all hockey
teammates.
Myles Brooks is the son of Kristy (Hagen) and Larry Brooks,
grandson of Orville and Gloria Hagen. Another Hagen grandson, Cody
Brooks in grade 10 is one of the goalies for the Bottineau Hockey
Team.

Vickie

Vickie, I know Kristy Hagen Brooks. She and Larry live on the Former Elmer Lindberg farm located about a half mile into Bottineau County on Highway 43. Elmer was Alice McKay’s brother. This is where she was born and raised too. Gary
 
 
Confirmation picture posted by Neola Kofoid Garbe: Bottineau & Minot, ND.
 
Deb Brudwick Sapp is Neola’s first cousin. Rodney Parrill’s parents are Thurman and Marie Parrill. Brenda Hiatt Parker’s (73) parents are Freddie and Margo Hiatt.
 
 
 
 
  

02/28/2010

Posted on by
Message/Pictures from Kenny Nerpel (65): Rugby, ND.
 
Gary,
 
RE: Southern Rendezvous
 
We just returned from the first annual Appalachian adventure. It wasn’t well attended but we were able to get together with old friend Billy Grimme at a cabin near Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. Stopped in on the way at a casino near French Lick, Indiana. I’ve always wanted to visit the home town of basketball legend Larry Bird and took this occasion to cross it off the bucket list.
 
It snowed for four days in the Smokies and rarely got above freezing, but North Dakotans do not let small things like this interfere with fun. The pool tournament , hot tubin’ and reminiscing went on as planned. Billy says that he honed his considerable shot-making skills at Sayid Kadry’s Pool Hall in Dunseith.
 
Took a different route on the way back passing through Memphis for a visit with my son. We visited a hotel there where they have ducks living on the top floor that they escort each day, via the elevator, to the lobby. Then on to Little Rock and Conway Arkansas, stopping briefly to visit the Toad Suck Ferry. (Toad Suck). May have stumbled upon the site of the next Southern Rendezvous. Hmmm.
 
 
Pool tournanment Snow 28 Degrees
 
 
Kenny
 
 
 
Newspaper articles posted by Neola Kofoid Garbe: Minot & Bottineau, ND.

Trent Metcalfe is the son on Archie (79) & Sally (Knutson) Metcalfe. He is also the Grandson of

Mary Eurich Knutson (62). Archie/Sally and family live on the former Orville/Gloria Hagen farm

located a half mile south of #43 and a half mile east of the Rolette/Bottineau county line.

 

 

  

02/27/2010

Posted on by
DeAnn Gottbreht delivered Connor Wayne O’Hara on February 25th: http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/deanngottbreht
Message from DeAnn:
 

Hello from two very proud parents! Connor Wayne O’Hara was born on September 25, 2010 at 9:55 pm. He weighed 4lbs 1 oz and is 17.25 inches long. He has a nice head of brown hair and what appears to be brown eyes. He is really doing great!

They started me yesterday morning at about 5 am on the inducing drugs and is was a very long day. I had really slow progress most of the day but at the end it was really quick and all of a sudden he was ready to enter the world and all of the nurses had to scramble to get the room ready and the doctor had to hurry in from home to deliver! He was crying as soon as he came into this world and it was a beautiful sound! The NICU people cleaned and checked him in my room and I was able to hold him for about a minute before they had to take him out to the NICU. What a miracle he is. Patrick went with to the NICU to see what was done. When they wheeled him out to the NICU they went by the waiting room so some very proud grand parents got a chance to see him as well!

Overall Connor is doing really well. They had to put him on a ventilator last night to help his breathing but when I last spoke with his doctor they planned to take it off a little earlier this afternoon because his breathing had greatly improved. They started to slowly feed him formula today as well. He is handling everything very well so far and all of the NICU staff have been great. Patrick and I have been in to see him a number of times today and also got to bring is his grand parents for a visit. He is a beautiful boy and we are blessed. I thank you all for your prayers that helped bring such a strong boy into or lives. I will post a picture of him from this morning on the site so you can all see him. Take Care everyone!

Read Journal

 
 
Lester Kitterling – Posted from the Duseith Alumni Website:
Reply from Traci (Pritchard) Zahn:

Judge Ketterling married my parents (Shirley Pritchard). I can remember mom talking about what a great sense of humor he had. My thoughts are with him and his family.

Traci, I believe your mother was Shirley Pritchard, daughter of Robert & Dorothy. She has passed on and is buried in Ackworth. I do not remember your dad’s name though.
 
You requested to be added to our distribution list some time ago. I added your name to the master email list, but I don’t see where I’ve added you to our daily distribution. I have added you now, so please let me know if you are receiving it twice. For our records, where are you currently living? Gary
 

Lester Kitterling’s CarringBridge Website:

From Neola Kofoid Garbe: Bottineau & Minot, ND.

 

Gary,

 

I just read your newsletter; I see LeaRae mentioned Judge Ketterling. This is his CaringBridge website if anyone would like to have it.

 

Neola

 

 
 
 
 
Reply from Trish Larson Wild (73): FORT COLLINS, CO
 
Hi Gary,

I finally got my blog online and running. It’s just the rough start, but if folks want to check it out, the address is:

trishwild.blogspot.com

My hope is to keep the site updated often for family, friends, followers, and sponsors. There will be frequent entries to chronicle preparations, training rides, and challenges getting ready for this endeavor. Anyone who clicks on the link to follow the blog will get a notification of all new entries. Thanks to everyone for your supportive comments and interest.

Trish

 
 
 
Picture from Sharron Gottbreht Shen (59): Everett, WA.
 
Many of you may know of the wedding celebration that will happen March 6, 2010 in LA. Ashley Noel, daughter of Gerald Pilkington and Evelyn Gottbreht will exchange vows with Gavin Phillips Witzer, son of Mr and Mrs Marc Witzer. All eight of Dale and Alma Gottbreht’s children will be together for this happy event. I am posting the fine photo of George who was in fine form on the occasion of another family wedding, that of Ivan Shen [Victor and Sharron] to Nora Obringer [Bob and Lauran] 24 Sept 2005 Detroit, MI. George danced the night away with his many nieces. The photographer captured Jenny Gottbreht daughter of Bill and Jean; DeAnn Gottbreht daughter of Ernie and Brenda and Ashley Pilkington daughter of Ger and Evie with there Uncle George Gottbreht. Priceless!

Sharron

Jenny Gottbreht, George Gottbreht, DeAnn Gottbreht & Ashley Pilkington
 
 
Allen Enno:
Picture from Neola Kofoid Garbe: Bottineau & Minot, ND.

 

Gary,

 

I think I sent this picture awhile ago. Someone might have sent an address where I could mail the picture, but I can’t find it. I have the picture right beside me RIGHT now, so if anyone has a mailing address for Allan/a relative, I’ll mail the picture as soon as I have an address. It’s a small picture, but Allan/a relative might like to have it.

 

I’ve been battling a cold since February 16; I haven’t been out of my apartment since the night before when I arrived in Bottineau. I don’t have much energy these days, but I’m going to scan/send a few articles from the Courant to you for your newsletter. The good part about having no energy is I’ve watched much more of the Olympics than I usually do. :)

 

I enjoy all the pictures/stories/etc. (if I know the people, or if I don’t know them) in your newsletters and also the picture/info you include about life in Cebu.

 

Thanks!

 

Neola

 

 

Posted by Neola Kofoid Garbe: neolag@min.midco.net Bottineau & Minot, ND.
 
 
  

02/26/2010

Posted on by
Lester Kitterling – Former Rolett/Bottineau county Judge – has cancer:
From LeaRae Parrill Espe (67): Bottineau, ND
 
Judge Lester Ketterling and wife Eunice are in Arizona. The Judge was diagosed with an agressive lymphona (cancer) a few days after they got there. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.They were just planning to spend a couple of months in the sun and it hasn’t been good. He started chemo, but has a ton of side effects. Lester served as District Judge for this area including Bottineau and Rolette County for a number of years. He is blind and his wife has low vision.
 
 
Also From LeaRae
The Bottineau County Centennial Books used to be available at the Bottineau County Public Library and/or the Bottineau County Auditor’s Office. I just called both and neither has any for sale. Mom found one at a garage sale a couple of years ago for 50 cents. Sounds like it could soon be a valuable as a Rembrandt!
 
Gene Bender Benefit
For those who don’t see the Bottineau Courant or Metigoshe Mirror, I would like to remind everyone there is a benefit for Gene Bender, former science teacher at Dunseith High School. He suffered a severe stroke in November. He was in Rochester, then Fargo, Bottineau Good Sam, and is finally going home this week, but will continue to be an out patient. His right side and speech were affected. One of things they are trying to get is a machine to help him communicate. This item is not covered by insurance.
 
The Benefit is Sunday February 28 from 11AM to 2:30PM Multipurpose Room at the HS. Menu Spaghetti -Garlic Toast -Dessert Sponspored by Metigoshe Lions and Dakota College (Forestry) and Supplemental Funds by Thrivent. Come to the East side of the HS, just South of Thatcher Hall.
Free will offering.
 
Make it a day and attend the Bottineau Community Theater production of “Curtains” at 2:30 in the Holwell Auditorium. It’s a musical-comedy and mystery. You may recognize some actors/actresses with a Dunseith connection-Duane Sebelius, Keith Pritchard (son of Corbin) and his wife Jan Pritchard, Loretta Neameyer Wall, and Diana Awalt Bullinger. Also, Robert Christianson whose dad was supt of the Peace Garden a few years back.
Hope I didn’t miss anyone.
 
 
 
 
Posted By Neola Kofoid Garbe: Bottineau & Minot ND.

LINDA C. BJUGSTAD
Linda Bjugstad, age 59 of Dunseith, died Monday in a Minot hospital. Funeral services will be held on Saturday at 10:00 A.M. in the St. Michael The Archangel Catholic Church in Dunseith. Burial will be in the St. Mary’s Cemetery of rural Dunseith. A wake will be held on Friday beginning at 4:00 P.M. with a prayer service at 8:00 P.M. also in the church

Linda is survived by her husband Don Bjugstad of Dunseith, ND, Her sons, Wayne “Stompy” (Sherry) Poitra of Grand Forks, ND, Terry (Audra) Poitra if Cando, ND, Christopher “Pd” (Arlene) Poitra Of Mandan, ND and daughter Tobbie (John) Vivier of Dunseith, ND, Step-daughter Joani (Lee) Jarus of New York, Kelsey Bjugstad of Fargo, ND and Jasper (Amy) Bjugstad of Missouri; Mother Betty Peltier of Dunseith, ND, brothers Dennis “Magoo” (Gail) Belgarde of Moorhead, MN, Tommy (Paula) Belgarde and Sylvester “Buster” (Ginger) Belgarde of Dunseith, ND; sisters Janice Morin of Fargo ND, Debbie (Elvis) Gladue and Betty Jean (Ray) Ostby of Dunseith, ND; 28 grandchildren and 3 great-grand children.

Print Obituary
  

02/25/2010

Posted on by
Bottineau County Centennial Books:
Reply from Neola Kofoid Garbe: Bottineau & Minot, ND.
 

Gary,

 

The Bottineau County Centennial Books are VERY hard to find. I haven’t seen/heard of a new copy for years. Estate sales sometimes have a copy. It seems the people who own them, are hanging on to them. I’m guessing many of the original books have worn out over the years. The book was kiddingly called “The Bible”. I located a copy on the net about three weeks ago (used). It was selling for $295. Sometimes, of course, a person lucks out and finds a copy. I’m trying to locate a copy for a friend of mine, too.

 

Perhaps an ad in the Courant would bring results.

 

Neola

Neola, I am so sadden to hear that those books are no longer available. Whose in charge and what would it take to have a few more copies Printed? I know they’d get the sales. The Dunseith Centennial book can be purchased at the Log Barn and the Security State Bank in Dunseith. Gary
 

 

Phyllis McKay (65): Auburn, WA

 

Folks, I just had a really nice visit with Phyllis McKay. In the coarse of our conversation, she mentioned that she has file folders for certain folks that are mentioned in our daily blogs that are of special interest to her. She copies and pastes all entries mentioned about these folks into these folders. What a brilliant Idea. I’m wondering if anyone else is doing this? Phyllis is recovering from Rotator cup surgery. She is well on her way to recovery and has gone back to teaching half days. Gary
 
 
 
Reply from Lola Metcalfe Vanorny (68): Dunseith, ND.
 

Hi-Gary

We were so saddened to hear of Dan Morgan’s passing- he was a good man!

Trish- I remember when you got your first horse- you were a youngster living at the port- I believe your Dad was a customs officer. You kept your horse in my parent’s pasture and my mom, Ella Metcalfe used to haul water to it every day . Those were many years ago.

Also, one thing I remember my mother saying about the flu years was that she and her sister Hannah (about 8 and 10) were lying in bed sick with the flu and their little brother Neil (18 mo) was In his little bed and she said they could see him play with his hands above the top of the crib . She said one day

that stopped and then she could see a small white box on Gramma’s sewing machine- he had died. She said Gramma (Randina Evans) never did get the flu and she would go around to the neighbors and milk their cows and leave the milk on the front porch. It was so contagious they didn’t dare go into the houses. Those people sure rallied back after every crisis- then they went through the depression and then wars. Tough ! they were!!- enuf rambling!-Lola

 
 
 
Update from DeAnn Gottbreht: Carringbridge link – http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/deanngottbreht
Note: Brenda has been diagoised with breast cancer. Her parents are Ernie Gottbreth and Brenda Hill Mueller.
 
Hello from my room in MeritCare hospital. We went to our ultrasound appointment yesterday morning and the fluid around the baby had gone done more. He spoke with out high-risk doctor who consulted with the Neonatologist (Baby ICU) doctors, my Oncologist, and my regular OB here who will deliver the baby and they decided the best route for me now is to deliver. The main reason being so they won’t have to put off my chemo treatments any longer. So I can deliver our son and get started recovering. I was admitted into the hospital yesterday afternoon and have been relaxing here in room 437. They are going to induce my labor starting about 5am tomorrow morning so I guess I better get my rest tonight while I can. I’m just happy they are letting me had supper tonight before I go on my liquids diet tomorrow morning! I am pleased with our doctors decision and look forward to meeting our son, the newest O’Hara to enter the world. I probably won’t be able to update this again for a couple days so I just wanted to keep you updated as best I could. I appreciate all of your prayers and we go through this next step in our journey. It sounds like he will have to be in the NICU for atleast 3 weeks to a month but I know he will be in good hands. Take care everyone and Ill keep in touch. Oh and we will be moving to a different room starting tomorrow morning so if any of you are looking for me I should be in the directory. Oh and I sure hope this is a easy delivery with very little pain!! I can hope for it right!!

Love, DeAnn

 
 
 
Wm Elmer Striker:
Question from Ken Striker: Dayton OH
 
Hi Dean-
 
Thanks for sending that link of the picture of Adda/Adele’s stone. http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GSln=striker&GSiman=1&GScid=2179256&GRid=14673518&
 
I read at the Dunseith HS blog that many folks died from the flu epidemic 1918 are were buried at Little Prarie Cem. (see below)
 
I would like to learn where Wm Elmer Striker, Adda/Adele’s husband was buried. In 1943 he and his daughter Ellen moved into Dunseith and later they moved to Seattle. He died at the age of 91 d 19 Dec 1953 Seattle King Co. WA
 
 
 
Lake Metigoshe Hotels:
Posted by Neola Kofoid Garbe: Bottineau & Minot, ND.
 
If you are interested in staying at Lake Metigoshe and want to make reservations online, here are the websites for the two Lake Metigoshe sites.
 
I sent the phone numbers for both facilities before.

Quilt Inn at Lake Meigoshe: http://quiltinnandsuites.com/
 
Twin Oaks Resort at Lake Metigoshe: www.twinoaksresort.net
 
Neola
 
 
 
School Picture:
Reply from Dick Johnson (68): Dunseith, ND.
 
Gary and Friends,

The picture of so many kids and parents by the school house makes
me think it could have been the annual event called ‘play days’, when
several of the schools would take the kids to a centrally located school
for games. They had running races and ball games and other things for
healthy competition. It’s just a guess as to why so many kids would be
at one school at one time. This school is very similar to the Hilltop
School that was southeast of the Peace Garden. I imagine many school
buildings were built alike and maybe even by the same carpenters. I’m
not real sure, but I think Glen Honsey bought the Hilltop School and
moved it to his place for a shop. It looked quite similar to the one in
the latest post by Mary Eurich Knutson. Several of the kids who attended
Hilltop are readers of this blog and may shed more light as to which
school this is for sure. It certainly looks like Ackworth and many of
Mary’s other pictures are from that area. Wasn’t the Ackworth school
moved at one time to it’s present location? It just seems to me that it
was located a short distance from it’s current location. Thanks Gary!

Dick

In about 1981 the Ackworth School was moved a half mile west to it’s current location, pictured below. The community got together and made the move. It is currently sitting on the exact spot where the original Ackworth Post Office was. Albert Hiatt owned that 40 acres. I think the Lagerquist’s may have it now. Gary
 
 
 
Pictures from Clayton Parrill (72): Bottineau, ND
Note: Clayton purchased Wondrasek’s studio a number of years ago and he renamed the business to “Dakota Memories Photography”. Gary
 
Gary,
 
Was looking at old picture of Ackworth School. Here is one I took last summer as it is today.
 
Clayton Parrill
 
 
I added a couple of other photos you might be interested in. I have taken a lot of landscape and scenic art images of the Turtle Mountains and from Rolette-Rolla-St.John to Bottineau-Souris areas if you think anyone would interest in seeing them I would post one every now and then.
Thank you.
Clayton, these are great. Yes, by all means we’d love to see more. Your Photo’s are absolutely wonderful! Gary
 
 
This is Ackworth as we see it today. The bell has been removed and the siding and shingles have been replaced. Those are the windows that were in the school when I attended school there for 8 years. I remember those long windows being replaced to these modern windows, for the time, about the time I started school. The school year of 60/61 was the last year school was held at Ackworth. I was a lone 8th grader with no one in the 7th. Dagney Haagenson was our teacher. For the hundreds of kids that were educated in Ackworth, I hold the title of being the last to have graduated from and to have attended all 8 grades in Ackworth. Most all of the Hiatt’s, one generation ahead of me and earlier, attended Ackworth. Many Hiatt’s of my generation attended as well. At one time the Hiatt’s accounted for more than half of the nearly 50 kids in attendance. Gary
 

 

 

Clayton, this is precious. I have a picture of my folks Headstone, but it’s not nearly as nice as this. Dad had both of their funeral arrangements made inclusive of the headstones. He had it all drawn out on paper in Nero’s hands. He visited Bill Nero often, so he and Bill had everything all in place when he departed this earth. It was so easy for us. Bill just followed thru with all of dad’s plans. These headstones, with the base, just appeared on their grave sites as they are pictured.

 

 

 

Ackworth Cemetery

 

 

 

 

I believe this is the old Homen school that was located on the north side of Highway 43 (Peace Garden road) about 2 miles west of Salem church. We used to attend Bible school in this school. Virgil Rude told me this is the school he attended too. I know LaVerne Rude, Carrole Fauske’s husband, attended this school too. This school was moved for a period of time to the church yard of Salem. I believe it was later purchased by Dan Pladson. Dan moved it to it’s current location next to his house located behind the west fence of the Ackworth cemetery.

 

  

02/24/2010

Posted on by
Dan Morgan, Former DHS Teacher, passed away:
From Judy Morgan: Edgeley, ND
 

H. DANIEL (DAN) MORGAN

Graveside services for H. Daniel (Dan) Morgan, Edgeley, ND formerly Wishek, ND will be held in the spring at Milnor Lutheran Cemetery, Milnor, ND.

Dan Morgan, son of John and Anna (Schiffner) Morgan was born June 19, 1937 rural Englevale, ND. Dan grew up and attended school and graduated from Lisbon High School. He attended Valley City State University earning a BS in education. Dan was married to Judith Nelson October 8, 1955 at Milnor, ND. Dan taught in several North Dakota schools before moving to Wishek in 1970 where he taught for four years. Dan and Judy owned and operated J’S Gift Shop and Craft Supply in Wishek. He continued to teach throughout North Dakota until 1987 while pursuing graduate work in Physics and Math. Dan also worked for North Dakota School Assemblies and the National School Assemblies. In 2003 they moved to the DJ Ranch west of Edgeley, ND where he continued to live until the time of his death. Dan was a member of St. Luke Lutheran Church at Wishek, ND. Dan will be remembered for the love of his family and friends, teaching and a lifetime love for his horses.

Dan died February 22, 2010 at his home under the care of Prairieview Hospice. He was 72 years old.

Dan is survived by his wife Judy; one son Scott Morgan, Rosholt, SD; three grandchildren; Richard, Abigail and Daniel S.; two sisters, Eva (Wally) Buckmiller, Tonasket, WA; Mary Jane Gullingsrud, Minot, ND; three sisters-in-law, Mavis Morgan, Ottertail, MN; Iris Barta, Moorhead, MN; Marvel Stockstad, Milnor, ND; one brother-in-law, Steven Nelson, Minneapolis, MN; two Godchildren, Susan Morgan, Louisville, KY; JoAnn (Bob) Gray, Atlanta, GA; two aunts, Rita Bachman, Pierce, NE; Marie Bachman, Renton, WA; several nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his son, Richard and infant son Daniel C, an infant daughter, parents, brothers, George and James, step-father Herman Jensen, and five brothers-in-law. Visit www.dahlstromfuneralservice.com to sign online guest book and share memories. Dahlstrom Funeral Home of Wishek ND entrusted with arrangements.

 

 
 

Bottineau Centennial Book:

Request from Kay Hildebrandt (Cousin to the Pritchard’s & Thompson’s):

 

Gary, Could someone please tell me how I can obtain a copy of the Bottineau Centennial Book? City, historical society, or ? Thanks, Kay Hildebrandt

Kay, I’m sure some of our readers can help you with this request. Folks can order the Dunseith Centennial Book from the Security State Bank in Dunseith or the Log Cabin. Gary
 
 
Reply to Ackworth School Picture:
From Florence Hiatt Dahl (50): Anchorage, AK
 
I went to Ackworth 7 years–those sure look like the windows I looked out of a zillion times. I remember a car went by pulling a horse–the horse died right by the school………………I..remember the anger–even as child–I KNEW the idiot had killed that poor animal..
 
 
 
Reply to Ackworth School Picture:
From Marlys Hiatt (71): Dunseith, ND.
 
I’m thinking the school could be achworth. I remember there was a bell
and a tree in the same place but much larger. The one thing that is
missing is the big steps on the front but maybe the people are covering
them.

Marlys Hiatt

 
 
Reply to Ackworth School Picture:
From Dale Pritchard (63): Leesville, LA
 
Gary / Mary,

I would say it’s the Ackworth school. It’s position is correct in
relation to the road, it did have a bell, the tree is right although
considerably smaller, and the road seems to be a little higher than the
level of the school which is correct (unlike the Willow Lake school
which was higher than the road). I believe the hill in the distance on
the left was behind Willie Hiatt’s barn. I remember we had a small barn
on the back right of the school lot which wouldn’t show on this picture.
I guess it was a souvenir of when kids rode horses to school. I don’t
remember the tall windows. Maybe it was remodeled somewhat before our
time. Surely all those kids did not go to school there at the same
time. I remember an average 12 – 15 of us back then and, although we
had room to move around, most of the room was used.

Mary, Thanks for sharing the old pictures. I have never seen a lot of
them before now. When moving around as much as I did for so long, one
tends to keep from collecting a lot. But that’s our regret in later
years. Keep ’em coming! We have snow in the forecast again for
tomorrow. If the forecast is right, it will be the 3rd time this year.
Very rare. The usual is once every 3 to 4 years.

Dale

Dale, Florence & Marlys; I so agree with both of you that this is Ackworth. About the time I started school in Ackworth, in 1953, I remember those windows being replaced with shorter windows. I remember all the talk about how much it changed the appearance of the school. Marlys, I remember well those steps being replaced. It was about the time you started school. I know Mrs. Phelps was our teacher at the time. In my day we had an oil burner stove for heat. In the years before my time they had a wood stove. I also remember the barn in the school yard. In my dad’s day, the kids rode their horses to school. Margie Hiatt often talked about how disgusted she was with my dad for eating all the raw eggs that her chickens laid in that barn. Dad loved his raw eggs and burnt toast. Gary
 

 
Bog Family:
Reply to picture posted yesterday from Eileen Brudwick: Fargo, ND
 
Hi Gary,
 
I just happen to know something about the Bog family! Ole & Eli Bog are the parents of: Anna, Knud, Ellen Carolyn Bog Smulan (wife of Ole Theodore Olsen Smulan), Bertine, and Oletha Bog Johnson (married to John M. Johnson), Oletha died in National City, San Diego County, California in 14 January 1967. She & John had at least 7 children.
 
Ole Theodore Olsen Smulan is my husband Mike’s 1st cousin three times removed. Small world isn’t it! I am happy to see this picture of the family! It’s one I didn’t have. The golden wedding celebration was 25 June 1913.
 
Thanks again Gary for all you do!!
Eileen
 
 
Casper Johnson:
Reply to picture posted yesterday from Eileen Brudwick: Fargo, ND
 
Gary,
Casper (as far as I know) is an adoptive son of John & Olette (Bog) Johnson. Casper Adolf Amundson was born, 9 November 1908 in Bottineau County, North Dakota and died, 6 November 1986 in San Diego County, California. He was married to Peggy ??
 
Eileen
Thank you Eileen. You can sure solve a lot of unknows with the resources you have. It’s great!
 
Folks, do any of you remember the Bog family or this Johnson family? I’m thinking they may have lived in the Willow Lake township area possibly on the Bottineau County side? The Brudwick’s lived west of Rendahl church in Bottineau county. Gary
 
 
Axel Johnson’s first wife Mary:
From Dick Johnson (68): Dunseith, ND.
 
Gary and Friends,

Gary Metcalfe is right. Axel Johnson’s first wife, Mary Olson
Johnson, died in the flu epidemic of 1918. He actually was also sick
with the flu and had to lie in bed with her for a couple days after she
died because he was too sick to get up. This is what my grandmother
related to me many years ago. Not very many people survived if they
contracted this deadly disease. Little Prairie Cemetery has an area in
the northeast part of the cemetery that is filled with victims of the
flu. Cliff Salmonson told me that grave digging crews worked day and
night and took turns warming up at Millang’s farmhouse across the road
from the cemetery. We have had to leave this part of the cemetery ‘as
is’ because we have no idea how many or where the graves are for sure.
They buried victims through the winter and just moved over a bit and dug
another grave. The dead just kept coming and coming, according to Cliff.
If you look in any local cemetery, there are always dates of death in
1918 and the victims are of all ages, young and old alike. This was from
the flu epidemic. Thanks Gary!

Dick

 
 
 
Reply from Trish Larson Wild (73): FORT COLLINS, CO
 
Hi Gary, Wow. You really went back in the archives for the photo of me on Magic, my gelding. I thought I better send a couple of more recent photos of riding in the Rockies. You asked how many miles a day I could ride. Of course it depends on many factors including terrain, weather, fitness, weight, breed of horse, etc. A common conservative long distance mileage to keep horse and rider sound, fed, healthy and happy is about 25 miles per day, 125 per week, 500 per month. I think I can do a bit better than that on the route to North Dakota, for a number of reasons. Therefore, if I’m going to do it, I would like to leave by April 1, which doesn’t leave much time because I’m already committed to travel to Costa Rica from March 3 to 9. I’m heading down to that beautiful country to further develop some contacts and scope out my future route through the rain forest and swamplands of the north. I don’t know if I can pull everything together in time to make the trip to North Dakota, but I am going to try. It all depends on how quickly my website comes together and sponsors come on board. I have been encouraged by the feedback, invitations, and interest from your readers, so I’m hopeful it will all work out. Mainly, I’d like to do it because I think it would be fun and a good challenge. I’m off work in the ER the next two days, and I’m hoping to get my website up. With some luck and elbow grease, I think I can get it done – or at least get a good start. Does anybody out there know a good web marketing consultant? In the meantime, here’s a link to a website I developed for people interested in losing weight. I lost 40 pounds this past year and so many people asked me how I did it, so I just made a website that tells the story. The reason I’m sharing it is because there is a good photo of my Morgan mare, Miss Maggie on there. If I make the reunion, I will be riding her most of the way. She is the bomb! Plus, there is info on healthy weight loss, which might be interesting to people. The system I used is called a Raw Food Diet, which is healthy and was easy for me to follow, Anyhow, for anyone interested, the link is livingarawfoodslife.blogspot.com. Well better call it a night! Big Thanks to everyone who has written to me to offer encouragement. I need all the help I can get! By the way Gary, I am texting all this on my iPhone so please feel free to correct any typos you might notice. Not that I worry any of my former teachers might be reading this or anything (lol). To finish up, here’s another timely quote from my heroine, Amelia Earhart: .”
 

02/23/2010

Posted on by
Reply from Trish Larson Wild (73): trishclayburgh@yahoo.com FORT COLLINS, CO
 
Hello everyone! Gary, I have to thank you again. I have heard from old friends and new via your daily missive and I’m so in awe of the heart and spirit of the north dakotans who carr for each other. I haven’t had time to respond yet to each individually because I’ve been worrking non stop lately, but I sure will soon and want each person to know how much I appreciate your support! Mr Metcalfe, I sure appreciate your comments and you bet I will keep in touch with all my nodak friends through this daily blog of Gary’s. All is going very well and I’m hoping to ride in to dunseith for the reunion. It might be a case of “kicking out the ladder”, but I’m just about ready…

I think this blog is quite unique in the world, and Gary, I’d like to thank you again for the effort you put forth to bring us all together.

By the way, I have officially changed my name to Trish Larson Wild,

I hope to live up to the name!

Blessings to all of you….

And I have to say, I think the class of 73 rocked! I know we had fun….

Trish
Trish, we are excited to see you come riding in on your horse all the way from Colorado. What an undertaking an adventure. How many days do you think it will take you to make this trip? Once you get to Dunseith, you’ll have the ride back too. Gary
 
 
 
Interesting article on Jay (66) and Lola Metcalfe (68) Vanorny:
Posted by Bill Grimme (65): Birmingham, AL.
 
 

Mikkel Pates, reporter/columnist for Agweek magazine of Grand Forks, blogs from Fargo, N.D., about ag issues in North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Montana, Manitoba and Saskatchewan. His postings and ag-at-large column are designed to support the development of successful entrepreneurial farms and agribusinesses.
 

Religion, farming and freight — at the border

I couldn’t help but stop and chat with Jay Vanorny of Dunseith, N.D. He lives on the west side of U.S. Highway 281, just a bit south of the Canadian boarder.

Vanorny told me he’s primarily in the cattle business. He started out in 1966 with 250 ewes, but in 1968 sold those and went into cattle. Both he and his wife Lola used to work at the San Haven Sanitorium, until it was abandoned in the late 1980s. “I took my retirement and bought more cows,” Vanorny says. He’s at about 100 cows now — a kind of “Heinz 57”, with some Gelbveih and Charolais. “Mostly black and black-and-white faced,” he says.

But there’s a couple of other interesting things.

First, there’s that farm shop you see behind Vanorny. It’s actually the old church that used to sit near the Little Prairie Cemetery. The congregation started in 1907 and the church was built in 1910. The church was abandoned in the late 1950s or early 1960s. In the 1980s, he bought the building. “Them old Norwegians had lots of nails and lots of time,” he said, describing the cans upon cans of nails he pulled from the subfloor so he could use the building for a farm shop. And the attic area of the church has enough lumber to build a house.

Second, there’s a 40-by-60 foot steel building — a freight depot. Vanorney and his wife operate Border Depot Shipping Services — a holding place, if you will, where U.S. shippers who don’t want to go into Canada send things. Then, a Canadian shipper comes and gets it and goes through Customs. It started several years ago when a sister-in-law, working as a broker, wanted to get soem packages into Canada. It just kind of grew gradually as a second job, and last year, Vanorny built a new building.

“Nothing is too big or too small,” Vanorny’s motto is. “You name it, I think I’ve seen it,” he says. “Boats, snowmobiles, cars, appliances. Plants.”

Now that’s what I call diversifying the farm.

He also operates a freight service in which U.S. shippers who don’t want to cross the border drop items. Canadian shippers will come across the border, pick up the items and go across.

Posted by: mpates on 2/22/2009 at 10:12 PM | Comments (0) | Permalink

 

 
 
 
Pictures Posted by Mary Eurich (62): Dunseith, ND.
 

Hi Gary

I thought this at first might be Ackworth School reunion/picnic of some sort but then I don’t know if the school had a bell on top and all the men

are dressed in suits and hats so maybe it’s a church doings

I’ve scanned the picture with a magnifying glass and cannot positively identify anyone. Maybe all the kids are our parents.

The picture with the family on the porch are identified as

the John Johnson & family and Mr & Mrs Bog – Bog’s golden wedding anniversary – neighbors. Turtle Mountains. Is this the same Johnny Johnson family originally talked about from up in this area or was their more than one of them too?

The single man is labeled Casper Johnson 1928. If theres a connection – I don’t know. I always think there is somebody out there with the same pictures that will know the answers. Thanks. Mary K

 

 

This is what is written on the picture. Does anyone have any idea which Johnson family this would be. Have any of you heard of the Bog’s?

“John Johnson & family and Mr & Mrs Bog – Bog’s golden wedding anniversary – neighbors.”

 

 

 

 

 

There is a Casper Johnson (1872 -1937) listed on page 260 of the Bottineau Centennial book. He was married to Hanna Haagenson. Hanna died in 1926. He Later Married Lydia Erdman and lived in Minot. Anna (Mrs. Joe Sebilius) and Clara Hanson were Casper/Hanna’s daughters. Could this be the Casper Johnson in this picture? Gary

 

 

Casper Johnson 1928

 

 

 

 

 

This could very well be the Ackworth school. I remember a tree on the other side of the school in that exact spot. Of coarse in my day, it was much larger. Ackworth had a bell too. Folks, please let us know what you think, if this is Ackworth or not? In the back of my mind, I think I remember seeing this same picture in some of my folks old pictures and it was labeled Ackworth. We’d like some comments on this one. Thanks, Gary

 

  

02/22/2010

Posted on by
Message from DeAnn Gottbreht: CaringBridge site link –http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/deanngottbreht
 

Sunday, February 21, 2010 10:11 AM, CST

Hello everyone. I hope you all are doing well. We have had a set back. Friday we went in for another ultrasound and to have my second chemo treatment afterwards. Once the ultrasound got started I could tell something was wrong. The fluid around the baby looked to be almost gone. One of the possible side effects of one of the two chemo drugs I got last week is the lowering of the fluid around the baby. My high-risk baby doctors were consulted. The fluid shrank from about 12cm to 3cm. I was given a non-stress test where they monitor the baby’s heart rate, movement, and whether or not I am having contractions. The test went great and he was moving well and heart rate was great. The doctors say he can do fine with the fluid he has in there and hope it will start increasing again since I haven’t had another chemo treatment. I have been following their orders and taking it easy and drinking lots of fluids. We go back to MeritCare on Monday where they will do another non-stress test and ultrasound to check the fluid levels. From what I understand if the baby is not in distress and the fluid is still low they will probably admit me to the hospital to give me IV fluids and monitor the baby more closely. If the baby is in distress at all they will deliver. We will then see the high-risk doctor on Tuesday and have a full ultrasound to check the baby’s growth and fluid level. The doctor will decide then what we do next. A big mark for the baby’s development is 32 weeks and I should be at that point at this coming Friday so they may hold me and possibly induce me to deliver then. I guess there is nothing more we can do but wait and see, and pray! Please keep us in your prayers. I will try to keep you updated.
 
 
 
Message from Dianne Larson Sjol (70): Minot, ND.
 
Hi everyone,
I am sitting at the Mpls airport with a four hour layover trying to
keep myself out of the stores…can’t fit anything else in my suitcase
as it is after a great trip to Albuquerque and Santa Fe. I went for a
two day conference but managed to squeeze in a couple of fun days
before and after. Cousin Nancy Hosmer Baldwin flew to Alq with me and
we met my sister, Cheryl Larson DAkin at the airport…she flew in
from TX…we all loaded up in the rental car and drove to Colette
Hosmer’s in Santa Fe. Needless to say, we had a great time. We had a
wonderful surprise and got to enjoy lunch with Gen (Ret)Brad Hosmer
and his lovely wife, as we joined them for lunch at a great little
Mexican restaurant…the conversation was flowing and we so enjoyed
their company. Some of you may remember that Brad was the the Gen at
the Airforce Academy in Colorado Springs for a time. He is the son of
Clark Hosmer, brother of Bob (Nancy and Colette’s dad)….We were also
joined by COlette’s beautiful daughter, Samantha (Sam). The rest of
the trip, including the conference was great. Cheryl and I saw much
of Santa Fe and even more of Albuquerque by default since we kept
making wrong turns….we ended up in some pretty strange places but
made the most of it…even traveled down the famous Route 66. We went
30 miles out of our way since we turned left instead of right…we
didn’t know that our exit was just one mile down the road had we
turned the right direction..we had a great adventure just the same. I
will leave it to Cheryl to post some photos…by the way, we also
spent time with some delightful friends of Colette’s, Scott, her son
and her grandson Tien…didn’t want to go home….
Dick and Brenda,
Nancy and Keith loved the concert…wish we could have gone!
Diane
 
 
Don Johnson Memories:
From Dick Johnson (68): Dunseith, ND.
 
Gary and Friends,

There is a short story about my dad, Don Johnson, that has to do
with his farming and teaching. One fall in the mid ’70s, Dad was up
north about a mile swathing grain one Saturday afternoon. I was working
on the combine in front of the shop when my Mom came running from the
house with this look of panic on her face. I knew something was urgent
by the way she looked. She said, “I just looked at the calender and your
dad is supposed to be in Boissevain directing the band in just over an
hour, so he must have forgotten!” I dropped the wrenches and jumped in
my pickup and tore out to the field. I tried to think of a way to tell
him that wouldn’t make him panic. I drove out to where he was and turned
the pickup around and headed it toward home and left the door open. When
I got to the swather, he kind of knew something was up, so I just
stepped over to the side and said, “Don’t panic, but weren’t you
supposed to be—“. It registered and just as I thought, he hit the
ground running for the pickup, before I finished asking the question!
The dirt flew from the tires and he disappeared in a cloud of dust. I
finished the swathing. When he got home, Mom had his clothes out and
everything ready for a quick bath and he made it in the nick of time and
nobody knew that less than an hour before, he was a farmer and not a
teacher! Over the years we had many similar deals with trying to do two
things at once. When Dad bought Ernest LaCroix’s cows in ’67, we still
lived in town. We had to get up real early and come up to the farm and
pitch on a sleigh rack full of hay in the dark and take it out to the
cattle every morning and then be back home and cleaned up and at the
school by 8 AM. It really used to burn me when kids from the country
would come in off a nice warm bus and say, “You town kids have it made,
we have chores we have to do.” Kiss my–what! Thanks Gary!

Dick

 
 
 
Reply to Trish Larson:
From Gary Metcalfe (57): Forsyth, MO
 
Looks like you are on your way to living a full life. Life is not measured by how many breaths you take, but by the moments that take your breath away. I must admit I envy you on your ride through those beautiful, tropical areas. Looking forward to all the life changing experiences you will have to share with us. Dunseith missed the boat by not telling the life of a real Montana cowboy, George Alvin. George went way back to the turn of the century, he was in Colorado in 1896. My dad had a passion for people who had a real story to tell. He took George along on a trip to Nebraska in the 30’s. The CCC boys wanted to go back home for the 4th of July. They stood up in the back of his pick up truck both ways. But I am sure your story will be told and recorded. Gary Stokes will do you proud, please keep us posted Trish. Good Luck!
Gary Metcalfe
P.S. Both Pete and Ben Lajimodiere lost their wives to the flu about the time Axel Johnson’s wife died.

02/21/2010

Posted on by
Memories of and condolences to the Laura (Sager) Stretzel family:
From Vickie Metcalfe (70): Bottineau, ND
 
Gary,
A few years ago, My sister-in-law Deb gave me a photograph.
Mrs. Laura Stretzel had just entered the nursing home in Rolette.
In her collection of memorabilia she had a photograph she handed to a
granddaughter and instructed her to give it to one of Lottie
Metcalfe’s family. Deb in turn gave it to me…………Deb says it
was because I am the keeper of the family history…….

I treasure this old photograph, which my mother verified of
her maternal grandparents,Holmes Township Rolette County residents.
Mom also identified her great Uncle Welch, her mum Sylvia, aunt
Ocie and their brother Carl circa early 1900’s. My mom’s
grandparents Sam and Elizabeth (Welch)Wicks came to ND from Iowa in
a covered wagon They were long ago friends of the Sager family.

I always wanted to go see Mrs. Stretzel and thank her in
person but regretfully, we all know good intentions are not always
followed by actions.

My sincere sympathy to the family of Laura (Sager) Stretzel.
Thanks. Vickie Metcalfe

 
 
 
Message/Picture from Dick Johnson (68): Dunseith, ND.
 
Gary and Friends,

Quite a while back, Trish Larson Clayburgh said she had never seen my
dad, Don Johnson, with anything but a clean suit of clothes. I mentioned
that he did get dirty often and just never went anywhere without
cleaning up. Last night I ran across some old pictures of us that were
taken back in 1952 here at the farm. Both pictures were taken the same
day. It is nearly impossible to do any part of farming without getting
dirty, at least not the way we farm. Most folks never knew Dad even
farmed at all, thinking he was just a teacher and was always dressed
with a suit and tie. Such was not the case! These pictures are of Dad
and Grandpa Hans and me, taken in the shade of the trees, at a lunch
break in the field, and me at age 2 back in the yard later in the
day—yes I got dirty even then! Thanks Gary!

Dick

 
  

02/20/2010

Posted on by
Sylvester LaRocque (Relatives)
Reply from Denise Lajimodiere: Moorhead, MN.
 
Ginger, the other brother is Curtis, married to Debbie Cree. Duel LaRocque is a first cousin. Alice his mom, and my mom Lola Lajimodiere were sisters. The were Plantes or LaPlantes.
 
 
Posted by Neola Kofoid Garbe: Bottineau & Minot, ND.

Sylvester LaRocque

July 22, 1946-Feb. 12, 2010

Sylvester Gerald LaRocque, 63, Dunseith, died Friday, Feb. 12, 2010, in a Minot hospital.

He was born July 22, 1946, to Jerome and Alice LaRocque in St. John. He married Shirley Myers on Oct. 17, 1975, in Rolla.

Survivors: wife; daughter, Shylow LaRocque, Dunseith; sons, Christopher Martin and Shane Martin, both Kansas City, Kan.; three grandchildren; sisters, Bernice Poitra, Linda Poitra and Jackie LaRocque, Debbie LaVallie, Joy Myers, Jeanette LaRocque, Annette Lunday and Sherry LaRocque; brothers, Ronald, Richard, Curtis and Brian.

Funeral: Friday, 10 a.m., St. Michael’s Catholic Church, Dunseith.

Burial: St. Louis Cemetery, Dunseith.

Prayers service: Thursday, 8 p.m., in the church.

Wake: Thursday, 4 p.m., in the church. (Nero Funeral Home, Bottineau)

Shirley A LaRocque

PO Box 821

Dunseith, ND 58329-0821

(701) 244-5338

 

Posted by Neola Kofoid Garbe: Bottineau & Minot, ND.

Laura Strietzel

Nov. 24, 1911-Feb. 16, 2010

ST. JOHN Laura Victoria Strietzel, 98, St. John, died Tuesday, Feb. 16, 2010, in a Rolla hospital.

She was born Nov. 24, 1911, to Clyde and Emma Sager in Richland County. She married Otto Strietzel on June 15, 1934, in Rolla.

Survivors: daughter, Loretta Mayer, St. John; three grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; sister, Hazel Berg, Fargo; brother, Harold, Devils Lake.

Funeral: Saturday, 2 p.m., St. John Presbyterian Church, St. John.

Burial: Rolla City Cemetery, Rolla, in the spring.

Visitation: Saturday, two hours prior to the service, in the church. (Elick Funeral Home, Rolla)

 

Filipino poverty with families in need of assistance: http://garystokes.net/SponsorFilipinoFamily.aspx

Message from Brenda Hoffman (66):

 

I don’t know how many of you remember some of the stories Gary has posted about the poverty of the Philippines, but one of his posts (or was it a personal communication?) struck a cord. I was in the midst of the usual frantic Christmas preparations when he wrote that most kids in the PI don’t get Christmas gifts – their families barely have enough money for fireworks. Additional info from Gary indicated that many of the PI children are starving or malnourished. I asked Gary how I could send some money to a family with small children and he and I set up the following system:

  • I sent Gary a check at: Gary Stokes, PSC 517 Box RS/CC, FPO AP 96517-1000
  • Gary transferred my check into PI currency
  • Gary and Bernadette purchased food with the money and delivered it to the family in the pictures pasted below.

In the last few years, I have been hesitant to donate money to charities because I’m never certain that the dollars I donate will be used to help the people I want to help – I would rather volunteer my services. Gary altered that picture for me. He and Bernadette make sure that the children receive the food.

  • A bag of rice costs $14 for 25KG; $28 for 50KG. A $28 bag of rice will probably last a family of 8 for a month. Rice is the staple of all of their meals.
  • Most families have no stove to cook on so they set a pot on stones and cook with wood.

My thought was that anyone who might be interested in helping feed a family – particularly one with small children – might send Gary $5, $10 or whatever amount. And maybe, just maybe, those of us from the Dunseith area could sponsor one family or even a few families. Bernadette’s sister works in social services in the PI and could help us target the poorest of the poor. The family I helped lives right behind Gary.


Gary added that he would make sure that contributors would get recognition at the Barangay level – the first level of government in the PI and of course receipts, etc to be used for US income tax purposes.


Brenda

Gary’s reply and comments:
 
Folks; Brenda did send me a check of which I cashed and exchanged for Peso’s. With Brenda’s donation Bernadette and I purchased Rice and food and gave it to this family, pictured below (follow link posted above). 100% of the money she sent was used to buy food for this family. This family was so happy and elated to receive this donation. They are a family of 8 that live in a 5′ X 7′ house. They, like so many families in this country, often go without meals, for lack of food. There is no welfare in this country.
 
With Brenda’s suggestion, we would like to help more of these folks. Bernadette and I are willing to purchase food and give to the needy families in our area with the donations sent. 100% of your money will be used to buy food or requested items for these folks. I will keep an updated listing posted on the Dunseith Alumni Website of the total moneys collected and how they were spent with pictures and listings of the recipient families. Individual donations will not be listed separately. We feel individual donations should remain silent. For United States Income Tax rules, we will keep detailed records, of individual contributions, of all moneys collected and where they were spent.
 
Please see pictures of some of the needy families on the next tab of this site (link above) that we will be giving our donations too. If you’d like to help a specific family, please let us know with your donation. If you have specific requests for your donation, please let us know that too.
 
I have a United States FPO address that you can mail your donations too. A regular US postage stamp is all that is required. The Mailing address is
 
Gary Stokes
PSC 517 BOX RS/CC
FPO AP 96517-1000
 
I will reply to each and every donation with an email message that we have received the donation. For those I do not have an email address for, we will make a personal phone call letting them know their donation has been received.
 
Thank you Brenda for your inspiration in seeing this thru. I am always amazed with how happy go lucky these folks are that have virtually nothing. These folks are always so very friendly and more often than not have a smile on their face.
 
Gary

 

Adventuresome night

For Verena (Pete 65) Gillis: Dunseith, ND.

Hey Gary,
I had quite an adventuresome night, had not been feeling very good for a
few days. Tried to get into the Dunseith Clinic and they were all full,
tried Belcourt Hospital, sat there for over an hour and you know me when I
have to wait too long for something….well, pardon the french but the
poop hit the fan, lol. I finally had to go to administration and boy did
they catch it. I was feeling dizzy, lightheaded, having chest and back
pain, my left arm was hurting, and my neck and jaw were misbehaving too.
What a day! Well, I ended up storming out of there and told them I was
going somewhere else and they would be receiving the bill. Of course,
that didn’t happen since I couldn’t get in anywhere anyway. I told Pete I
would go with him this AM to Rolla when he went to take care of Little
Pete’s pickup. Anyway, started getting ready for bed, about 10:00 pm,
just couldn’t get comfortable, so got back up and told Pete, I don’t think
we should wait for tomorrow, call Brandi and see if she will take me. So
did that, then I called IHS and they told me they would be sending an
ambulance since they have all the necessary equipment in case of cardiac
arrest, wow! Anyway, ambulance gets here, begins the blood pressure
routine, tried to put an IV in but of course these little night crawlers
of mine kept ducking on them, (I have terrible veins). Then the one guy
starts to get real loud, 213 over 137, huh? I say, “is that my blood
pressure?” “Yes it is young lady.” Oh oh, I’m in trouble, I thought to
myself, remain calm….into my mouth comes a nitro. I then pulled out my
cell phone and called Brandi letting her know everything that was
happening, “Holy ….” was her reaction to how high my blood pressure was,
OK Mom, just relax, Dad and I are on our way. So here I am riding around
in this big old ambulance at 11:00 pm at night, pretty rough ride too.
Someone happened to be driving down our road at this time and of course
had to report to the Garden Tap where our Harold was. Then the calls
started coming in and we weren’t even home, lol.

Longer story short, got to the hospital, got hooked up to an EKG,
meantime, blood pressure is going down gradually, still trying to get IV
into me, night crawlers still won’t have that, lol. Did blood work,
X-Rays-very thorough doctor. In the end, seems my hiatal hernia was the
culprit and the blood pressure meds were not working for me. This was
about 5:00 am. OK, so what now, I am tired, I hurt and I just wanna go
home to sleep. Wait, gotta get that ole GI Cocktail first, yum, yum.
This numbs my esphagus-they then gave me a shot on the hip to relax me,
tells me I need to start relaxing more. Me? LOL. “I can’t”, I say, “got
a benefit on Saturday for Snowball Poitra who has stomach cancer. Been
having these just about every week for someone.” Why? I was asked.
“Because my husband and I have been fighting this horrible monster for 14
years, we know the expense of driving back and forth, the cost of the
chemo or radiation, whatever it is they are having, IHS does not help
everyone so there you go, answer your question?” “Yep.”

Well ya’ll, hope this wasn’t too boring, tried to make it as adventurous
as I could, lol. I look forward to hearing from you.

“Can’t get a good girl down”

Verena :)

Verena, We need you well for this reunion. You can’t get sick on us like this. A friend of mine that I used to work with had a hiatal hernia problem too. Twice that I know of they hauled him out of the shipyard to the hospital and put him in ICU only to find out it was his hiatal hernia acting up. Gary

 

 

 

From Allen Richard (65): Midland, MI 48640

 

In case anybody thinks people in the Frozen North don’t mean business—–

 

Allen

 

  

02/19/2010

Posted on by
Commercial Hotel
Reply from Lloyd Awalt (44): Bottineau, ND.
 
hi Gary I will see if I can answer the question on the commercial hotel. Yes the Hurst family was a owner at one time . Charley Watkins took care of it for awhile, then Gassman’s had it and they sold to Grimme’s. We lived in Tom Cassidy’s house on the corner west of the hotel Mrs. Grimme and my mother were very good friends. They visited together allot. We lived in Tom’s house from 1932 to 1941. My dad had the dray line from 1931 to 1946. So we knew where every one lived for we hauled every thing imaginable. Hope this helps a little Lloyd Awalt.
 
 
 
Gerald Sylvester LaRocque’s death:
From Ginger Poitra (65): Belcourt, ND.

I haven’t seen a writing about my cousin Gerald, Sylvester LaRocque he
passed away Friday February 12, 2010 in a Minot hospital. His wake
services is tonight February 18th at St. Michael’s (formally St. Louis)
Church in Dunseith, with funeral Friday February 19th 2010. Sylvester
was 63, and the son of Jerome and Alice LaRocque, of Dunseith. Some of
the siblings are Bernice, Ronnie, Jackie, Jeanette, Linda, Brian,
Richard, Debbie, Annette, Joy, I just can’t remember the one brother.
Sylvester had one adopted child Shiloh.

Ginger, Neola sent me the following Death notice for Sylvester. I did not realize he was your cousin. We are so sorry to hear of his untimely death. Our condolences are with you and his family. He was so young. Gary
 
Sylvester LaRocque
(July 22, 1946 – February 12, 2010)

Sign Guest Book | Send Private Condolences
Send Flowers
SYLVESTER G. (DUEL) LAROCAUE Sylvester (Duel) LaRocque, age 63 of Dunseith, died Friday at a Minot hospital. Funeral services will be held on Friday at 10:00 A.M. in the St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Dunseith. Burial will be in the St. Louis Cemetery also of Dunseith. A wake will be held on Thursday beginning at 4:00 P.M. in the St. Michael’s Catholic Church with a prayer service at 8:00 P.M.

 
 
 
Sgt. Terry Rishling’s Obituary & Funeral
Posted by Larry Liere (55): Devils Lake, ND & Arizona
 
Gary
 
I receive these because I am a retiree. Since he is from Belcourt, ND I thought it may be of interest.
 
LARRY

Retirees in the area are encouraged to be at the Fargo ariport to pay respects as the casket for Sgt Rishling is being unloaded.

> FARGO, N.D. – The remains of Sgt. Terry Rishling are scheduled to arrive in
> Fargo on Thursday, with visitation at Hanson-Runsvold Funeral Home that
> evening.
>
> Sgt. Rishling died at 6:04 p.m. (CST) Feb. 10 (1:04 a.m. Feb. 11 Kosovo time)
> from apparent natural causes while serving in Kosovo with the North Dakota
> Army National Guard. Sgt. Rishling, 38, was a team leader for Third Squad,
> Third Platoon of Alpha Company, 231st Maneuver Task Force, serving in Kosovo
> with Multi-National Battle Group East, Kosovo Forces 12, on a NATO
> peacekeeping mission.
>
> The plane carrying Sgt. Rishling’s remains is scheduled to arrive on Delta
> Flight #7307 at Fargo’s Hector International Airport at 4:21 p.m. Thursday.
> The North Dakota National Guard’s Military Funeral Honors and the North
> Dakota Patriot Guard will be on site to pay respects as the casket is loaded
> for transport to Hanson-Runsvold Funeral Home, 215 S. 7th St., Fargo. Viewing
> and visitation will take place at the funeral home from 6:00-8:00 PM.
> Memorial service: Saturday, February 20 2010, at 10:00 AM, at St. Anns
> Catholic Church, Belcourt, ND.
>
> A memorial ceremony took place Monday in Kosovo, where Sgt. Rishling’s fellow
> Soldiers remembered him as a dedicated Soldier and jovial role model who
> placed family first and looked after his team members as if they, too, were
> family.
>
> Sgt. Rishling is survived by his wife, Nancy A. (Gailfus) Rishling (Fargo);
> and daughters Sophie E. Rishling, 8, (Fargo) and Courtney M. Rishling, 20,
> (Belcourt); and his parents, John and Gloria Rishling, of Belcourt, N.D.
>
> WHAT: Arrival and transport of Sgt. Terry Rishling’s remains and viewing at
> the funeral home
> WHERE: Fargo’s Hector International Airport and Hanson-Runsvold Funeral Home,
> 215 S. 7th St., Fargo
> WHEN: Plane arriving at 4:21 p.m. Thursday with viewing expected to from
> 6:00-8:00 p.m.
> COORDINATION: The family has requested that media be allowed at the airport
> and funeral home, but has asked that no interview requests be granted.
> —
> WHAT: Memorial service
> WHERE: St. Anns Catholic Church, Belcourt ND.
> WHEN: Saturday February 20, 2010, at 10:00 AM.

 
 
From Trish Larson Clayburgh (73) Fort Collins, CO
 
 
Subject:Wild Ride begins 101010

Hello Gary! I thought I would drop you a line to let you know that I have set a date for my departure on horseback to Buenos Airies, Argentina. I will leave Estes Park, Colorado on 101010 (October 10, 2010). After a lifetime of dreaming and planning, it is finally almost time. Anyone that knows me well can tell you that I have been horse crazy my entire life. This fall I will realize my dream to become a “Longrider”, or as I prefer to be called, an “equine vagabond”.

This summer I will continue to train and prepare for the long journey of more than 9000 miles with my three horses, Maggie, Magic, and Midnight. My wonderful canine partner, Wiley Coyote will accompany us as well. I have many things to do before I go. The first priorities are to get my website up and get sponsors on board.

I am currently writing letters to business leaders and corporations who might be inspired by my story enough to lend financial or material support.

If I obtain enough funding in time, I would like to “warm up” with a 1000 mile ride back to my home town reunion in North Dakota this May. I am also planning several training rides this summer in Colorado, and I hope to have enough money set aside by spring to be able to leave my nursing job and train full time.

It’s a busy time, but I thought you and your family and friends might like to be the first to learn of this news. I will send you my website link as soon as I go online with my daily blog. I will be keeping my patrons, family, friends, and followers up to date all summer with stories, photos, videos, and accounts of planning tasks, outfitting, training, and adventures leading up to the big ride through Mexico, Central, and South America.

Thank for your interest in my journey, and please let me know if you have any questions or suggestions or know of anyone who might like to offer any kind of support be it emotional, spiritual, financial, or anything else!

I will largely depend “on the kindness of strangers” to achieve my goals, but I hope that anyone who chooses to offer any kind of assistance to me will be rewarded by feeling they are an intrinsic part of the accomplishment.

Feel free to send this on to anyone who might find my equine travels to be of interest.

For the fun of it,
Trish Larson Wild, RN, PhD

“We all have our oceans to fly. Risky? Maybe…. But what do dreams know of boundaries?”. -Amelia Earhart

Trish, We are so happy for you with your life time dream becoming reality. It would be nice if you can make our reunion. We are looking forward to seeing you. Gary
  

02/18/2010

Posted on by
Dunseith Alumni Reunion:
 
Folks, Verena Gillis is canvassing the Dunseith Businesses asking for donations to purchase Tee shirts, with the Dunseith Logo, that we’d like to give out to everyone attending the reunion. In doing that we would like everyone’s sizes.
 
For those of you attending the reunion, please reply to this message letting us know you know about the catered dinner we have planned for the reunion. We’d also like your Tee shirt size too. They come in Sm, Med, Large, X-Large & XX-Large. I’m not sure about the triple XXX size. Your Tee shirt sizes are for our records only. They will not be published.
 
Note: We’ll be calling those that we do not get a reply from that plan on attending the reunion. We want to make sure that everyone is informed of the catered meal.
 
I have listed a list of the hotels in the area near the bottom of this message. They seem to be filling quickly. Gary
 
 

Commercial Hotel:
Question from Sharron Gottbreht Shen (59): Everett, WA.
 
I found that the Hurst family were former partial owners of the Commercial Hotel – I’m wondering who the Gimme family bought from or if they have title history? Fantastic picture. Sharron
Dick Johnson’s (68) reply: Dunseith, ND.
 
Gary and Sharron,

I think Bill Hosmer said the hotel was owned by Grassmans before Grimmes. It might be in the history book.

Dick

Sharron’s reply to Dick:
 
The Rolette History book mentions the Hurst family as partial owners – only mention I found. Hurst name may precede Grassman. Does Hanna Higgins Myher have email? Floyd Dion? Sharron
 
 
Posted By Neola Kofoid Garbe: Minot & Bottineau ND.
 

 

 
 
 
Here is a list of motels in/near Dunseith & Bottineau.
Posted by Neola Kofoid Garbe: Minot & Bottineau ND.
 
Dale’s Truck Stop & Motel – maps.google.com
Highway 3 & 5, Dunseith – (701) 244-5491
Sky Dancer – Located 9 miles east of Dunseith
Louella Allick, Hotel Manager
(701) 244-2400 ext. 106
 
 
Norway House: Highway 5 E, 701- 228-3737
 
Loveland Lodge: 345 11th St W, Bottineau, ND 701-228-2296
 
Super 8: 1007 11th St E, Bottineau, ND (701) 228-2125
 
Quilt Inn and Suites (Lake Metigoshe):
10722 Lake Loop Rd E # 1, Bottineau, ND
(701) 263-6500
 
Twin Oaks (Lake Metigoshe):

10723 Lake Loop Rd E, Bottineau, ND
(701) 263-4295
 
 
  

02/17/2010

Posted on by
Dunseith Alumni Reunion Dinner:
 
Folks, we were trying not to have to collect for the dinner in advance, but we will be charged for the number we give the caterer, so that pretty much locks us into collecting in advance for those that would like the dinner. Verena has make arrangements with a catering service out of Rugby. This is what she has made arrangements for:
 
Roast Beef, Mashed Potatoes and Gravy, Corn, Bacon/Lettuce Cauliflower Salad, Dinner Roll and Dessert for $10.00 per plate.
 
It’s not a requirement to purchase the catered dinner to attend the reunion. Verena asked the caterer if they could provide food for purchase, on site, for those that prefer not to have the catered dinner. They said they could make a few roast beef sandwiches, cold cuts, etc that could be purchased on site.
 
Verena has calculated $5.00 per head to cover all miscellaneous expenses. This includes the Facility, decorations, table covers, several cakes, the hiring of a clean up crew the following day, etc
 
For those of you desiring the catered meal, please send your payment of $10.00 Plus $5.00 ($15.00 total) per person payable to
 
Verena Gillis
PO Box, 785
Dunseith, ND 58329

(701) 263-3302
 
The caterer has given us a deadline of May 14th.
 
For those attending that have not paid in advance, we will be collecting the $5.00 registration fee at the registration desk the day of the reunion.
 
We will be making contact with all of you signed up for the reunion, that we do not get a reply from, to make sure you are informed of the reunion details.
 
Gary

 
Frozen Fingers “Just Us” Photo’s: Dave Mettler (Bottineau), Don Boardman (60) & Tina Pladson Bullinger (78):
Provided by Dave Mettler and Neola Kofoid Garbe:
 

 

 

 

 

 

Terry Rishling, originally from Belcourt, Died in Kosovo:

Neola Kofoid Garbe: Minot & Bottineau, ND.

Gary,

I’ve been waiting for this info to be in the Minot Daily, as I wanted whatever news I sent about Terry, was accurate.

 

Neola

Soldier who died in Kosovo originally from Belcourt

BELCOURT A North Dakota Army National Guard soldier who died while deployed to Kosovo is originally from Belcourt.

Sgt. Terry L. Rishling, 38, Fargo, is the son of John and Gloria Rishling of Belcourt. He graduated from Turtle Mountain Community School in Belcourt in 1991.

Rishling died Wednesday while deployed to Camp Bondsteel in Kosovo, with Multi-National Battle Group-East, Kosovo Forces 12, on a NATO peacekeeping mission, the Guard announced Friday. Rishling was not feeling well and went to the hospital where he died of apparent natural causes, Guard officials said.

Rishling was a team leader for Third Squad, Third Platoon, assigned to Alpha Company, 231st Maneuver Task Force out of Valley City.

A memorial service was held Monday at Camp Bondsteel in Kosovo.

Rishling joined the N.D. Army Guard in 2001. His survivors also include his wife, Nancy, and two daughters, Sophie and Courtney, Fargo.

  

02/16/2010

Posted on by
Happy Birthday Aime Casavant (66): Jamestown, ND
 
Aime, I believe today, February 16th, is your birthday. We wish you the happiest birthday ever. Enjoy.
We are also looking forward to seeing you at the reunion on May 22nd. Gary

 
 
Reply from Cheryl Larson Dakin (71): BEDFORD, TX
 
Hi Gary
I’m sure I’m not the only one who would love to see more photos of your fiesta. It’s very interesting to hear you talk about the customs of the people there and see the photos.
Thanks so much.
Cheryl
P S… loved the picture of Nancy and Keith. I’m flying in to Albuquerque to meet Diane (Sjol) and Nancy (Hosmer) on Wed. (Diane has a nursing conference there) and we plan on spending lots of time with Colette in Sante Fe. It should be a blast of shopping, museums, art, good food and great company.
 
 
 
Hotel vacancy the weekend of the reunion
From Verena (Pete 65) Gillis: Dunseith, ND
 
I called Sky Dancer Casino this morning and they only have 5 rooms
for the 20th, some for the 21st but nothing for the weekend. Pretty
booked up with a wedding, golf teams coming in and so forth. So you could
probably list some of the other motels in the area for them to consider.

Please include Mrs. Ronald Peltier in your emails:

Verena :)

Verena, Thank you so much for this info. I will post a list of other hotels in the area with the next posting of the Reunion attendance list of which I’ll be doing with in the next couple of days. Gary

 
 
Dunseith Alumni Reunion:
Reply from Larry St. Claire (66): Anchorage, AK
 
It sounds like a great time, something I don’t want to miss, so add Robbie and I to the list. We will be there from Alaska.
 

 

Commercial Hotel:

Reply from Marie Iverson Staub (60): Seattle, WA
 
Gary,
 
I loved the picture of the Commercial Hotel that Gwen Grimme Eltz sent in. It brought back a lot of memories. I remember Charlie Anderson as he used to be in town a lot. It’s interesting what brings up all those good memories . Some of the other pictures that have been on your blog of the school I can remember as we lived directly across the street. I can’t believe it’s been 53 years ago. It’s scary.
 
Marie Iverson (Staub)

Commercial Hotel:
Reply from Dick Johnson (68): Dunseith, ND
 
Gary and Friends,

First, thanks to the folks that came to the Frozen Fingers event in
Minot and thanks for the compliments. It again lived up to it’s name as
Saturday there were near blizzard conditions throughout the area.
Second, thanks to Gwen Grimme Eltz for the neat picture of the
Commercial Hotel. I had kind of forgotten the enormous size of the
hotel. Many times the neighborhood kids were at Grimme’s to play ball
out in front or just to visit. One thing I remember is that when Greg
and I would go out to play football, we would need another player, as it
is nearly impossible for two kids to play football alone. We would ask
Gwen if she wanted to play? She would, but she always had a rule. She
would say, “Alright, but don’t knock me down,OK?” She knew we could get
a bit rough, and so she had one rule we had to follow! Ever the little
lady. I can still remember the inside of the main floor of the hotel. We
usually entered through the south entrance that is behind the pine trees
in the photo. The first room to the south was where Carl did his
furniture upholstering. He did all kinds and I can still see him
standing there working on his projects. The next room to the right was
where the stairway went upstairs right along the west wall. Then we went
into their large living room. This is the main part of the building that
is centered on the picture. Lots of the woodwork in the hotel was
varnished wood that had naturally darkened to a deep dark brown. I think
the living room transversed the entire center portion as I believe there
were big windows on both the east and west side. North of the living
room was the big kitchen where Gwen mentioned that her mom served the
meals to all the hotel boarders. If I remember right, the kitchen was
painted a cheerful bright yellow. We would sometimes go out of the
kitchen to the east through the door that is centered between the trees
on the picture. Another thing I can remember is that Carl had a small
ship built inside a bottle. I can remember how fascinated I was with
this the first time I saw it. It was on a shelf on the south wall of the
living room. Grimmes also had the first set of bubbling Christmas tree
lights that I had ever seen. Just a couple years ago, I found some of
reproduction bubble lights and bought two sets just for the nostalgia.
In a prior message, I mentioned that my aunt lived in the north ground
floor apartment for a while so I pretty well remember the entire lower
level but I guess for some reason we never went upstairs, as that was
where the boarders had their private rooms. Gwen and Bill–please
correct me about what I’m writing, as this is just my recollection of
YOUR place, so you would be much more correct on the building layout. It
was sure a neat place to go, I do know that. Carl and Kathleen always
made us feel welcome in their home. Carl immigrated from Germany and had
the common ‘German to English’ brogue translation problem. I can still
hear him saying, “Glegly, you be home at 10.” He was a neat guy. Thanks
Gwen and Gary!

Dick

 

 

Update from DeAnn Gottbreht: http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/deanngottbreht

 

Monday, February 15, 2010 9:31 AM, CST

 

Happy Valentine’s Day. I am at home enjoying having the holiday off. It is below zero outside so I am glad not to have to head outside.

I started chemo again on this last Friday. It is a new type of chemo with two new drugs. I will do a total of 12 of these treatments. I am going to be doing the treatments weekly now and then break hopefully a week or so before the baby is born so my system can recover from the chemo before the birth. After the birth I will recover for a few weeks and then finish the 12 rounds. These new drugs are not suppose to be as hard on my system as the last so I guess we’ll see. So far I have been feeling fairly good this weekend. Getting plenty of rest!

We met with the high-risk baby doctor and our boy is doing very well. He is about 3 and a half lbs now! We also met with our new OB at Meritcare who will actually hopefully be delivering the baby, as long as he doesn’t show up unexpectedly! I will be getting weekly ultrasounds now to watch the baby closely and make sure he isn’t effected by the new chemo.

I want to thank you all once again for all of your support and generosity. It is greatly appreciated.

 
 
 
Eleanor Hiatt Fauske (42) and Elmer Hiatt (deceased) with their prize winning 4-H Herefords:
From Sharron Gottbreht Shen (59): Everett, WA.
 
This picture was front page news in the Turtle Mt Star 3 July 1941, a fine photo of the two Hiatt members. I know DeAnn Gottbreht received 2 blue ribbons for her fine porkers around 1990. I thought Pork Chop and Gertrude beautiful pigs and DeAnn was so proud of them. It was hard for me to accept that they would be dressed out at the fair for the needed qualification. Sharron
 
Follow up reply from Sharron:
I was just a bit jealous of the 4H Club crowd when young. Makes me value the local Brownie troop more and our brave leader, Lee Hosmer. Perhaps someone has a picture? Meetings were the high point of my week/month in 1st and 2nd grade. I can no longer remember how often we met!

Sharron

 
Turtle Mountain Star – July 3, 1941
 
 
 
Thompson Family Pictures:
Posted by Kay Hildebrandt (Granddaughter of A.C. & Esther Thompson):
Gary,
These photos were collected by one of the Canadian Pritchards. Missing are Alfred and Harry. If anyone has a photo of Alfred, I’d like to have a copy. Thanks, Kay
Thank you Kay: A.M. & Esther Thompson would be grandparents to Corbin, Robert, Lincoln, John and Winifred (Eurich) Pritchard. Will & Ida (Thompson) Pritchard in the lower left of the this picture were their parents. A.M. & Esther Thompson were also grandparents to Ella (Thompson) Pladson and Esther (Thompson) Tangen. Their father was Ulysses Thompson, center right, in the picture. Gary
 

 
 

Old Bottineau High School:

Posted by Ken Striker: Dayton OH.

 

Saw this neat pic at ebay. Ken Striker of Dayton Oh