(To Gary Metcalfe)

I do not know how to add to the pages so I will just write this to you…If you know how to add it feel free…I met Vance Bailey a few years ago when his stolen van was recovered in Mesa and I worked Auto Theft at the Mesa Police…I called him and met him to return a seat that I had fished out of a canal….He mentioned that the kids that had taken the van should be sent to work on a farm in ND for a summer and that would “straighten them out”… I asked him where at in ND and he said just a little town you have never heard of…Dunseith…I told him that was where I was from and we talked for a half hour or so….He didn’t remember Dad but when I mentioned Aunt Jean he laughed and said he went to grade school with Jean and it had been more than 40 years since he had heard the name Jean Metcalfe….I did not know where the Bailey farm was so I called Janice to ask around Kelvin…..about 10 minutes later Ray called me and told me he grew up on the Bailey farm…it was where Ralph Poitra lived……
�
I always ask people where they are from when I see a ND plate and the people always talk for 5-10 minutes…I was told by a truckdriver from Minot that people from ND usually talk until they know someone in common (He told me that after we talked and we both knew Mark Sivertson from Bottineau)…..I have noticed since then that we in fact do that and usually do have someone we know in common……and when I see a Theels dealer sticker on the trunk I know we will……..
 

Travis

 

 

 

 

Childhood memories from Peggy Wurgler (71) With pictures:  

 

 Maybe ’61 or ’62. Attendees, from the left: Becky Hanson, Heidi Hanson, Paula Fassett, me, brother Dave, Patty Longie, Stephanie Evans, Cheryl Haagenson and Art Rude, Jr.

  

 

 Peggy, Dave & Joan Wurgler with their new ’57 Chevy

 

 

 

 

Message from Marlys Zorn Bryan (69):

Hi Gary,

I was tickled when Janice Workman mentioned the skating rink and warming shed in Dunseith. I grew up on ice skates in that rink, and never could get warm in that warming shed. I always wondered (as a 4 year old) why that little heater couldn’t warm us all up. After leaving North Dakota I’ve never lived in a state that had cold enough winters to support ice skating; I miss it so much!! It was my favorite sport. I’ve taken up roller blading, which, when done in the dark on a cold December evening on a brand new Walmart parking lot, felt just like having my own private skating rink for 3 whole days.  It was awesome. Thank you, Janice, for bringing back those memories!
Marlys (Zorn) Bryan

 

Message from Marie Iverson Staub (60):

Hi Gary,

 

Message from Paulette Lacroix (68):

Marie,

Our family fondly remembers the Iversons.  I am sorry to hear that Archie passed.  Greg and Archie caught a lot frogs and snakes at the creek.  We kids got together after supper on summer nights to play hide and seek and to throw a ball over our garage.  I don’t know what the game was, but we’d call ”anti I over” (sp?)  and ”pigs tails.”  When you left town you kindly gave me your scrapbook of movie stars that I treasured for years.  I for one would love to hear you go on and on. 

P. LaCroix

PS Thanks Rod and all for sharing your memories of Hazel Hiatt.  She left quite an impression on me with her unpretentious determination.  Does anyone remember anything about the man who spoke with a pipe in his throat?  (I can remember faces, but am a complete dolt with names) Also, I remember going to the “airport” outside Dunseith when Charlton Heston came to give a speech at the Peace Garden.  Does anyone else remember this or am I dreaming?  Please, keep writing…everyone.    

 

P. LaCroix 

 

 

 

I remember Isaac Belgarde,  but do any of you remember Minda Haagenson?   She lived in a little shack off the Willow Lake Road.  Mom and I went there once that I remember to visit, as the Haagenson clan were tied into our family.  The thing I remember most is that when you went into the house you had to duck down, because the ceiling was hanging low.  Minda always wore a heavy wool coat and a wool scarf folded down over her forehead no matter what time of year it was. 

The thing I remember about Johnnie Meyers, is Sparky the dog riding on top of the cab of truck or on top of the load of bails of hay as they drove down main street.,  And Sparky would be standing on all four legs as steady as could be.

I remember Saturday nights, and going downtown to watch the people.  Everything closed up at 10 PM and nothing opened up again until Monday morning.

I remember the Crystal Cafe and the juke boxes on the tables.

I remember the Snake Pit, my dad bowled there with many of the people mentioned in our memories.  I have pictures of Bing Evans, Bernice Johnson and others that I will locate and scan in.

I am on my way to Thursday Morning Bible Study.  You will all be in my thoughts throughout the day.  I hope you all have a good one.  Hugs and Prayers,   Susan

 

 

 

 

Gary,
�
I think everybody remembers Johnnie Myers.  ha   Just like everybody remembering Isaac Belgarde, everybody will have a good story about Johnnie Myer.   Here is one of them.�
�
When we lived up on the farm my dad would always get a bull from Johnnie’s herd to use.    One day(eight yrs later) Johnnie was up to our house for something and my dad asked him when he would like to have his bull back.   “What bull” Johnnie asked.  Dad told him and Johnnie’s response was, ” Oh that’s where that —  —- bull went.   ha ha  We laughed hilariously for a long time after that.   ha�
�
Dave Slyter  

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gary,

I do believe the man Paulette is referring to about the many layers of coats is Isaac Belgarde. I remember when he came to church, the first few minutes were spent peeling off layers of coats. He was a very nice and prayerful man. His daughter Bernice graduated with us in ’72, a nice lady.

I love reading all the e-mails. Nice work Gary.

Loretta Wall (Neameyer)

 

Ele Dietrich Slyter’s (69) reply to Paulette LaCroix (68):

Paulette—I think you are remembering Issac Belgarde.   They lived on the dump ground road and he always wore coats, year round.  Ele

 

Dick Johnson’s (68)  Reply to Pualette LaCroix (68):

Gary and all DHS

The guy from Dunseith who wore all the coats was Issac
Belgarde. He lived on main street first and then moved to the
dump ground road. He named a daughter after my mom, Bernice,
after Mom did some small favor. Mom thought this was very
special.There could be another person who wore several coats
but I think you are asking about Issac.

Dick

Gary Metcalfe’s (57) Reply to Paulette LaCroix (68):

Hi Paulette, You refer to Isaac Belgarde, he must have had poor circulation!  He spent time in the bank in Dunseith, also Rolette.  His brother, Charlie was an Army Captain and a Minneapolis Building Contractor, his sister, Mrs. Rodrick Gagnon.  She was a great neighbor.  Also Mrs. Tommy Anderson was his sister.  Isaac was a horseman and landlord.  Don’t think he went to the moon??

 

Replies and Memories from Bob Hosmer (56):

Hi Gary and all Dunseithers,

 

 

 

Halloween time in Dunseith was a treat.  Neighbors made homemade fudge, popcorn balls and caramel apples for our huge bags.  KC Sine lived two doors down from us and Margie made great caramel apples.  They got to know us kids pretty well and it was the first place we checked whenever our brother Jerry “ran away.”  Margery made this irresistible with her treats.  They knew my brother Greg was a little character and decided to play a trick on him for Halloween.  He absolutely hated onions and would pick every smidgeon out of anything he suspected of having them.  When we stopped at their house with our trick or treat bags, Greg got two caramel apples.  We were all jealous since we only got one and he taunted us with this specialness by dancing around the house with one in each hand.  With a face made to look like he was dying of pleasure, he took a big bite and tasted “onion!”  The caramelized onion flew as well did a few bad words when he ran to rinse his mouth in the sink.  We thought it was a pretty good joke and considered it special that KC and Margery would take the time.

Marge Landverk!  We used to walk past your fenced back yard down our alley and gawk at the beautiful flowers in your mother’s garden.  I have memories of being in your house and hearing a sleepy old clock tick.  Somewhere, I believe, there are photos of you and my sister Janice sitting on the sofa in your very fluffy pastel prom dresses.

Paulette LaCroix

Again, thanks Gary! 

PS.. What was the name of the guy who wore all the coats, even in the summer (not Sy) and said he wanted to go to the moon?  He had a lot of kids and his wife seemed perpetually pregnant.  They lived on the road to the dump grounds I think.  I have loved hearing all these stories and memories.  More and more I remember places and people that I thought I’d forgotten. 

 

Message from Bobby Slyter (70):

gary

 

Is it possible that anyone out there would have the Eli Demery song written down someplace or even possibly on tape??  Dimathy (Demery) Robertson, I think, would like to have a copy.  Appreciate the help with this one.  Thank you    Ele

  

 

 

 http://www.arcent.army.mil/news/archive/2007_news/july/jul29_02.asp

 

General recognizes pilots for daring rescue mission	1 2
Story and photos by Spc. Nathan Hoskins 1st Cavalry Division’s 1st Air Cavalry Brigade
BAGHDAD, Iraq (July 29, 2007) – The top U.S. general in Iraq presented awards to four Apache pilots for their part in the July 2 rescue of two other pilots downed by enemy fire during a July 27 ceremony in the Victory Base Complex here. Gen. David Petraeus, commander of Multi-National Forces Iraq, honored the four pilots of the 1st Cavalry Division’s 1st Air Cavalry Brigade, and eight others who helped rescue the pilots. Chief Warrant Officer Allan Davison and Chief Warrant Officer Micah Johnson, both AH-64D Apache attack helicopter pilots for Company A, 1st Battalion, 227th Aviation Regiment, received Distinguished Flying Crosses. Davison and Johnson landed their attack helicopter in a hostile area and evacuated the two downed OH-58 Kiowa helicopter pilots of the 3rd Infantry Division’s 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade. Apaches only have two seats, so Johnson, the front seat pilot, let one of the Kiowa pilots take his seat in the Apache while he and the other Kiowa pilot strapped themselves to the outside of the aircraft and sat on the wings, said Johnson. “It looked like they were both in pretty good shape, but one of them kind of looked like he had been through enough, like he was a little shocked, as I would be, too. I told him to get in front,” he said. Once the pilots were strapped in, Davison, the pilot in command, took off and headed to Baghdad International Airport where the pilots were dropped off. While this was taking place, their Apache wingmen were circling above providing security. Those two pilots, Chief Warrant Officer Seung Choi and Chief Warrant Officer Troy Moseley, received Air Medals for their efforts. Although happy at being awarded medals and recognized by the top commander in Iraq, the pilots said their greatest reward was finding the downed pilots alive. “We’ve seen a lot of aircraft shoot-downs,” Johnson said in an interview after the rescue. “Every one that we’ve all probably seen, it’s resulted in burning aircraft and black smoke and usually catastrophic loss of life. If not loss of life, then there have been serious injuries. Just to see those two alive, it was amazing. It was great.”

 

 

 

 

Hi Gary & All,
�
     It was interesting to note the reference to Eli Demry in the 40 below song.  Jim Footit (Class of 51) wrote “The Ballad of Eli Demry” in the early 50s when Eli was a young man.  I don’t remember the words but it was to the tune of “Ballad of Davey Crockett” and the first verse started “Born on a mountain top near old Dunseith…meanest place in the land of the Crees.  The first verse ended with “…kicked out of a bar when he was only three”.  Then the refrain…..”Eli…Eli Demry…King of the Chipp-o-was”.
     Some of you may not be aware that it was Eli’s grandson, Micah Johnson (Darcy’s son) that we saw on the evening news and morning shows, last spring, dangling from a gun mount as his helicopter made a daring rescue of another helicopter crew shot down in a river in Bagdad.  Micah had given his space to one of the rescued crew members.
     Who would have thunk?
�
Gary Morgan
Class of 54

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hi Marge,
�
My name is Dave Slyter.   I noticed your maiden name is Landsverk and I lived next door to some Landsverk up in the Turtle Mountains.  They lived right off from the Willow Lake Road.  The family farm stead was Nels and Gerdie Landsverk.  We all rode the same school bus.  I graduated with David Landsverk and was neighbors to Bruce for many years.  I do remember Barb Landsverk.   I was just wondering if you were related to them?�
�
David Slyter

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gary, and Dunseith Friends.   One rather unlikely story, but one that
had some predictive qualities took place during my freshman year at
DHS.  Don and Bernice were both Juniors.  There was an operetta
directed by Miss Nesting.  The characters in the play were Native
Americans.  The title of the play was “Star Flower”.  That character
was Bernice.  Then there was a young brave I think named “Lone Buck”,
played by Don Johnson who was courting Star Flower.  Her father was a
grizzled Chief named ‘Lost Eagle” or something like that, played by
yours truly.  One line I remember well from Bernice was,  “Father, you
bid me come to you”.  I was supposed to be a grouch, so I had my arms
crossed across my bare chest which had been slathered with leg make up
to make me look more tribal-like.  I  had on a full headdress loaned by
the Chippewa tribe, and there were several of them in the audience of
this production.  Bernice was so beautiful I wanted to hug her, but
that would have ended my stage career, and I’d probably have left that
leg make up on her Indian Princess dress.  By the way for you young
folks, leg make up was a substitute for silk stockings which were not
available. It was a fluid in a bottle.  World War II was still ongoing,
and then nylon etc became available later.   There was alot of music
and the two of them sang love songs in duet, and they lived happily
everafter. Fortunately, the chief in the play did not have any singing
requirement.

    This was just a brief interval in a long friendship with those two
great Americans, but when there is such a wealth of  personal
admiration, and deep sense of loss, every little whisp of memory comes
back to reinforce the importance of having known and indeed loved Don
and Bernice Johnson.    Cheers, Bill Hosmer

 

 

 

 

Folks,

With all the tributes you folks have provided with memories of Don Johnson, I’ve decided to dedicate today’s mailing to Don and his family.  The first 3 messages, ahead of the article, I’ve gotten today.  The messages following the article have been published before.  I wanted to combine all the messages into one for this distribution.  I went back through and tried to capture all the memories you folks have provided of Don.  Please let me know if I’ve missed any.

I will include future comments that you guys provide, with memories of Don, in the daily messages.  I will also add them to this message for redistribution in the future.

Gary Stokes

 

From Paulette LaCroix Chisholm (68): paulet

Gary,

These daily comments, stories and memories are a much better read than the Turtle Mt. Star in my humble opinion.  I see I missed the “Daddy” song. 

 A little story about Don Johnson.  In high school I played clarinet beside Gwen Grimme on the same old honking clarinet my two older sisters played going back at least a decade.  Years of abuse had practically disintegrated the case so my mom taped it from head to foot with some gawd awful putrid smelling tape.  When Mr. Johnson opened the door to the little room of stored instruments and was hit by the stench, he came to the conclusion that one or more students had not cleaned some filthy reed or mouthpiece in ages.  He was quite “put out” with this disgusting find and lectured us on proper hygiene so “it” would never happen again.  I knew it was my fault since I couldn’t put the clarinet even close to my lips without a gag.  Now, I was sure everyone “knew” my mouthpiece was the “filthy unhygienic culprit.”  Too embarrassed and red faced to fess up during the lecture, I waited in painful guilt and anxious expectation until after class.  To my relief, he threw his head back in laughter and told me in a playful way to “get it out of there.” 

 I remember his eye opening introductions to different styles of music and his tying the message of “Romeo and Juliet” with the more modern “West Side Story.”  He gave many of us the recognition and appreciation our parents didn’t or couldn’t and we “felt” his pride in our accomplishments.  If you wanted to participate, he provided every effort to support you.  I will always remember his kindness when gently telling those, who had less than perfect pitch, to keep their voices low so they could still participate in the choir.   His contribution to our community over the years was huge, heartfelt and lasting.

Paulette LaCroix Chisholm (68)   

 

From Brenda Hoffman (68):

Thank you Gary. I love the “community” of our emails. I could send this info directly to Dick Johnson but wanted yet more accolades for Don Johnson. Don was wonderful about exposing all of us to a variety of music (first heard and fell in love with Westside Story via Don in a music class), but also made absolutely sure that any cultural event near Dunseith was available to any of us who were interested. I so remember taking the bus to A Mid Summers Night Dream and laughing hysterically — and being amazed that it was written by Shakespeare. Or the concerts in Bottineau. Or the circus in Minot. And I loved how anyone could join the choir…even me. I knew my voice wasn’t the greatest (I think that’s an overstatement!) so would pretty much just voice the words when we were practicing. Toni and Paulette told me that they couldn’t hear me so I should sing louder..which I did for one song. I was a freshman in High School so of course, was intimidated by older classmates in the choir…Don stopped our practice after that one song and just said, “Brenda, could you keep it down.” He also sang at my wedding to Terry Hegney in 1969 (Terry died in 1981)..Of course, tunes from Westside Story!

 

From Dave Slyter (70):

Hi Dick:
�
Just a quick comment about your dad.  Just like a super star, or actor, or singer or writer or  composer your dad left a legacy in so many hearts, not only in the Dunseith area, but to North Dakota and Canada.   He was a man that had a lot of influence on a lot of peoples life’s.  He will always be in my life.   He was the best teacher I had ever had. �
�
Just one more little story about your folks together.  When we lived on  the farm up in the hills my mom Margaret Hiatt would make the best cinnamon rolls in the hills of the turtle mountains.  When she would get into the mood of making them there would be this strange thing that would always happen during that same day of the baking.  Your mom with your dad or your mom with her mom or your mom with your dads mom would always drive up and visit.   We always asked mom when she was baking if she thought Don and Bernice would show up.   Sometimes we know more than said it, and they were driving up the hill to our house.  It was funny and also always enjoyable as they would sit and talk about so many things and memories of  the old Benny Johnson farm.  Always look forward to their visits.   And they loved the cinnamon rolls.   We always told mom that Bernice could smell those cinnamon rolls a mile away.  ha �
�
Take care
Dave Slyter :

Prairie Past and Mountain Memories (1982 centennial book) Page 213

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Connie,

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Good Morning Dwight,I haven’t seen you since you graduated.  I never knew your older
brother.  He disappeared before I started high school.  Talking about
snow clogged roads, I remember that your mother taught school one year,
maybe two, at the Ackworth country school.  Believe she stayed there
when the roads got too bad.  The best of roads at that time weren’t very
good!  I believe your dad substituted for your mother when she had
something else she had to do.  

Dale Pritchard (63)

 

 

 

 

 

Gary,Thank you again for your daily message.  You are a daily copy
of the Turtle Mountain Star or the Bottineau Courant (depending
on which side of Dunseith you lived on).  To paraphrase the
quote, “The Turtle Mountain Star is like a letter from home”,
attributed to Dick Morgan; “Your message, Gary, is like a
telephone call from home.”

  Please thank Shirley for me and pass on the following
message.

Shirley,

Thank you for the update on Pat(Brennan)Groff and her family.
I am saddened to hear of Glenn’s passing.  Please send my
condolences to Pat and her children.
�
Your message helped me remember that summer; wheat dust, a few
stubble fires, and rain when we did not need it.  I had
forgotten Mike’s and David’s names.  David was very young at
the time, 10 or 12.  Mike was about 16 years old, tall, thin
and wiry.  I was even thin then, ooohh, we all change with time
and gravity.

Stay well.

Randy Flynn

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hi Gary!
Diane (Hill)Moline (75).  I too have been enjoying the e-mails
about Dunseith and what some of you older folks remember. Tim
(68), Brenda (70), Greg (72) and Joanne (74), Bruce (81) and
Lynn (83) are my siblings. My dad John Hill passed away when I
was just 25. So we did not get to know him real well as
adults.  Does anyone have some memories they would like to
share with us about our father?  Mom (Murl Hill)(50) still
lives out on our farm.  She keeps busy with church stuff and
all her kids and grandkids-soon to be 9.It’s a balming 30 below here in Minot, ND today!!

 

 

 

Gary and DHS classmatesI imagine you are getting swamped with memories but there are a
couple short stories that may be of interest to most. Can
anyone remember how we used to antagonize poor old Said ‘Sy’
Kadry at the pool hall? If you knocked a ball off the pool
table he would kick you out. You could come back in ten minutes
and play again BUT it cost you another dime! So being the jerks
we were, we would wait until he was busy with a customer and
then bang the butt uf our pool cue on the floor real hard! Sy
would come on the run and crawl all around the tables to see
who knocked the ball off, much to our amusement, of course! We
should have been horsewhipped or worse!

Another story from the old days is one about Mac McHugh, a
colorful Dunseith old timer. He was a fixture at the Crystal
Cafe for many years. My grandfather, Henry Olson and Ike Berg
were working together at the bar and would take turns going for
dinner at the Crystal. One time Ike went first and when he came
back,Grandpa Henry went over and sat on the same stool that Ike
had just left.Mac McHugh was still there on the next stool and
he just kept looking at Henry without saying a word. Finally he
said, “Hank,are you ever going to amount to anything”? Grandpa
said, “No, probably not”. Mac replied, “Ya, that what Ike said
about you”! Anything for a little exitement on a quiet day in
old Dunseith! Enough for now.

Dick

 

Gary please send to Randy Flynn

Dear Randy

It is so nice to hear from you.  Yes Glenn was Pats Husband, Glenn died 2
yrs ago of a stroke.  They have four children Shelly lives in San Diego, 

 

Original Message —–
From: “Randy Flynn”
Subject: Groff’s Bellingham

Shirley,

 I recently read Gary Stokes’ missive where you provided the
 name of your sister Pat.  My name is Randy Flynn the son of
 Minnie (Knox) Flynn,  I did not know Pat but I did work for
 Glenn Groff one summer (1971) custom combining.  I am curious
 to know about the Groff’s family.

 I believe Glenn brought 2 or 3 boys with him.  One boys was
 possibly named Seaholm and a fiend of his son.  I believe a
 younger son also was on the trip.

 Thank you for any information you can provide.

 Randy Flynn

 

 

Memories from Ron Longie (65): 

Hi Gary,

When it gets snowy and colder than H___ , I remember going across the field behind Hetley’s house headed for the gravel pit to jump off the top of the cliff and into the snow drifts that used to accumulate there. I could spend all day in the cold and snow then and never want to come in, we would also shovel the snow off willow creek behind the stock yards to play hockey  we would have a bonfire on each end to get warm, man O man what a way to grow up I loved it then, and now even more in my memories also going to Lake Shooty to skate with my dad  holy cow he could skate what a fine place to grow up, and look back with pride and be grateful for spending my childhood in Dunseith, ok-ok I’m going take care all.

                                                              Ron Longie

 

 

Dave Slyters (70) Reply to Bill Hosmer (48) & Gary Stokes (65):

Hi Bill�
�
Thank you so much for the story about our dad Freddie Hiatt.  That was pretty special.  I don’t know if you know this or not but your dad was the Slyter boys guardian for many years.  He would over see our spending for cloths and things like that, out of his store.    Always enjoyed going into their store.   He was always so nice to us. �
�
I am glad that you have such a beautiful place to live.  I will try and remember you as I pass by on the ninth hole of the golf course.  ha   So that must be pretty convenient to have a golf course so close by
�
Gary,
Wow that is a whole lot of water around your house.  ha    Do you know how to swim?   I hope your house is on high land.  ha  Thanks for the invitation.   That probably be something to look into in the future.     Stay safe.
�
Thanks for the tribute and the prayers.�
�
God Bless
Dave Slyter

 

 

 

Hi Gary.  Thanks for the address.  Acually I have his address (Pat Godfrey 50), and have
communicated with  him by mail after he made a short visit to Dunseith
and surroundings a couple of years ago.  If anyone else needs to know
my phone number it is 520 750 0170.  At home at Metigoshe it is 701 263
4499.  I’ll leave here in May for the hills of home.   You ought to
find a way to have us subscribe for and pay for all this service you
accomplish way out in Cebu.  Bill

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

    Gary and all the rest.    Just read the neat 180 degree turn by the
band described by Dick Johnson.  It made me believe that Don Johnson
gave more positive stuff to more people than anyone I know.  The last
time I saw him was when he was leading the band down Dunseith’s main
street at one of my visits home during Dunseith Days.  His grin and
wink, when he recognized me, stays with me these many years later.

     Dave Slyter mentioning his dad, Freddie Hiatt, reminded me about the
last time I saw him in the Rugby hospital.  I had just taken my dad,
Jack Hosmer there for an examination in 1987.  Freddie and I had a
long conversation while waiting for the examination to finish.  He
and I had spent alot of time in friendship over many years.  He was a
Dunseith character I admired for his friendship, loyalty to the
community, and his positive attitude.  He told me his condition,
which was serious, but told it with all the optimism he could gather.
 This was  also the last time I saw my dad.  And the beat goes on.

    Additionally, I live right near the Birchwood golf course, as a matter
of fact, right next to the nineth fairway.  Sure did not know that
Dave and his dad cleared that land.  In the summer months, during the
end of the day, the setting sun brings shadows across those rolling
hills and the ponds, which I usually take time to observe for its
beauty.  Now when I do it, it will have more significance.  I will
give silent tribute to Freddie, Dave, Uncle Wallace, and the rest of
the family who helped create this little piece of North Dakota beauty.

     In parting, it seems to me that the power of prayer by your readers
and contributors had a most positive and miraculous effect on the
medical adventures experienced by one of us, Bev Morinville.  I am
happy to know that she is  recovering way above the expected
schedule.  Probably, the spirit of loyalty and love gave her  and all
of us a huge lesson .  Cheers, Bill Hosmer

 

 

 

 

 

Hey Dick,
�
Ha Ha   I had forgot all about that little incident.  ha   If I recall I was either way to small or the bass drum was way to big for me to see over the top.   ha  ha    Thanks
�
Dave

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

To Gary and the masses,In response to the memories of DHS band and choir days, I want
to share a few memories that come to mind. We were in
Boissevain Man. marching for some function (?) and were asked
to march down the street in front of the nursing home. This was
a dead end street as I recall. We had practiced making a 180
degree turn where we marched back between the rows without
stopping and this seemed to word quite well in practice. This
day however when Dave Slyter, who was carring the big bass
drum, turned around, either he or Don Berg (?) turned the wrong
way and there was this loud BOOM in the back of the band and
two guys on the ground. It did seem to entertain the old folks
though and we had a good laugh!

Another time as we were in the gym practicing the songs for
graduation, we had a break in the action while the teachers
were deciding how it should go. SOMEONE had a firecracker and
SOMEONE had a lighter. As the fuse was burning the one holding
it tossed it into the open bell of an upright baritone. Our
principal, Don Martel was walking away when it went off and as
I recall he jumped about three feet in the air and came down
facing the opposite direction. I think Dan Boguslawski was the
poor guy holding the smoking horn! I may not have the right
guys but the facts are right as I remember.

Dick

 

 

Dave Slyter’s (70) reply:   

Hey fellas,
�
You talking about Elwood Fauske and George Gregory got me thinking about the winter of 67.  I know you guys probably were already gone after you graduated but that winter was one of the worse that I remember.  My dad, Freddie Hiatt had a HD9 International bulldozer that he used a lot on our farm just south of you guys.   That winter the county had asked him to clear roads as the snow was so high the snow plows and graders couldn’t handle it all.  They sent him about 3 miles south of our place down by the Rendahl church turnoff as the snow was really packed in between some hills.  He first had to make a trail in Olsens hay fields so the school buses could get thru and then he had to push the 10 to 12 foot snow banks out from the Willow Lake road. I think we were out of school for about a week straight that winter.   My dad also use that cat or bulldozer for logging as we use to have saw mill on our farm many years ago.    If you all remember the Birchwood Golf course at Lake Metgoshe.   Well just before it was put in  my dad and us boys move everything up there to clear the trees so we could have the lumber and they could have the golf course.  My dad and uncle Wallace moved a little shack up there as we use to work a lot of summer days up there and my mom Margaret Hiatt and sisters would come up and cook and feed us.   It was a lot of hard work.�
�
What memories
Dave Slyter 

 

 

 

I thought about Bev all day yesterday (the day of her surgery). Am thankful her surgery went better than previously thought.  Bev, you have alot of friends that are thinking of you and praying for you.  May you heal and recover quickly. 

It’s been fun reading all the e-mails from everyone. I, too remember alot of these memories as we moved to town in 1963. We spent lots of time with Morinville’s, Campbell’s, Malaterre’s, Evans, Hennings, Hagels, Mongeons, Martinson’s, Schimetz’s and Fontaine’s, just to name a few. They were very good times.  

Loretta J. Wall (Neameyer)

 

Ele Deitrich’s (69) message to Deb Morniville (72):

In reply to Deb Morinville—our prayer circle is working….let’s all keep praying and Bev will make a full recovery.  I hope that she is reading these as she recuperates as we are all with her in this time of need.

 

 

 

 

 

Hi:  I wonder if anyone receiving these news emails remembers when in
1947, we all (except two who didn’t know about it) in High School,
probably around 80 students, went on strike and didn’t attend school
that day, in the hopes that we could convince the School Board at that
time to retain a teacher for the following year that we all thought very
highly of.  Needless to say, we were not successful !  The teacher was ”
Russell P. Lund”.   We, who attended the “2000 reunion” classes of
‘47,48 last saw him then.
He lives in Fargo area.  That was quite an experience.  Wonder if that
was the first and only strike at Dunseith High ?
Mona Johnson

 

 

Steven P & Russell P Lund

 

 

 

 

 

 

Folks,

 

I had a wonderful visit with Elwood and Eleanor (Hiatt) Fauske today. Going on 66 years of marriage, they are going strong. They live just east of the Bottineau Fair Grounds.  Russell, their son, recently had some ligament surgery on his left arm.  Russell & Glenda live on the Fauske farm, formally the John Hiatt farm up in the Ackworth community.  Elwood has been driving up to Russell’s every day to do his chores while he is convalescing.  Eleanor is still active with her crafts and with the store she has partnership with, in Bottineau.

 

The Fauske siblings are Connie (62), Russell (64), Carrole (66), Beth (67), Arlinda (Lindy) (69) & Brian (70).  Many of you among our ranks are niece’s and nephew’s Elwood & Eleanor.

 

I told Eleanor & Elwood that some day they will become Senior Citizens.  Elwood is 5 years younger than my dad and he would have been 92 last September.

 

Gary Stokes

Front: Earl Hiatt, Ronnie Longie, Dean Helgeson, Bill Grimme, Ronnie Johnson

2nd row: Paula Fassett, Debra Mongeon, Kathy Fassett, Donnie Mongeon, Patty Fassett, Ann Carbonneau, Terry Martinson

Back: Patty Boguslawski, Shirley Boguslawski, Evie Gottbreht, Carol Jasper, Charlie Carbonneau, Susan Fassett, Mark Anderson, Karen loeb & Pam Fasett

 

 

 

 

Message from Dale Pritchard (63): His mother Dorothy will be 95.  

 

Good Morning Gary,

Greetings from soggy Louisiana, 60 miles North of Lake Charles and 110
miles South of Shreveport!  Just thought I’d throw this out.  For those
of you who know or remember my mother, she will be 95 years old this
Saturday, January 25th.  She attributes it to the clean air, cool
climate of North Dakota, heredity, and stubbornness.  She is reasonably
healthy yet but has a hard time getting around now on her walker.  She
lives in Oak Manor, a senior citizen’s apartment complex in Bottineau.
Although the eldest of her family, she has outlived all her brothers and
sisters.   

Dale

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I have a question for Dave Slyter.  Where is Donna Wenstad?�
Class of 1975.  We were good friends through high school, but
lost touch after that.  Diane Moline

 

 

Thanks for keeping us in the loop regarding the cruise!  My hubby and I may consider going.  We are doing our very 1st cruise this year in March.  So depending on how that goes, we may be joining you all to Alaska!!
�
Hope your year is going well.
Marlene(Richard) Parslow

 

 

 

 

 

How many remember the good ole band and choir days  of good ole DHS.   Of course who could forget the best music director of all of DHS’s history,  Don Johnson.   He done so many things for so many students.   One of the most memorable was when Dunseith received the Governors Choir award.  I think I remember then the choir had over 60 members in it.  The high school band always had big numbers in it.   He ran a very high standard music department.�
�
Alan Poitra,  I remember those funny looking hats also but they were always locked up in the little practice room and we were all hoping that no one would mention to Mr. Johnson that we should wear them while we march.  ha    I always remember the home coming parades in Dunseith and also the day that we would travel to Minot for the Minot State College home coming parade.  It was a long march, (especially when I had to carry that big ole bass drum) but was the best of times.   Always went downtown Minot and hung out at all the stores.  Always went to the five and dime store.  �
�
When we were in the music program in the late 60’s and into 1970(by the way that is the best year ever) we had the really nice blue blazer that we wore for high school concerts.   I think we wore them for marching also.  I also remember going to Devils Lake for the high school music contest or festivals.    Dunseith always came home with high marks.
�
I think that was the best part of jr. high and high school was being in the famous Don Johnson music program.  Well that and passing my grade each year.  ha�
�
One more memory I have to mention about the DHS music department.  It has to do with years after I graduated but was a memory I will never forget.   I was once a custodian at DHS after the good ole years of San Haven employment.  My daughter Stacey was in high school band then and was under the direction of one of Don Johnson’s former students and everybody knows her,  Cheryl Haagenson.   She too did a great job  in the music department.  During the year that Stacey I think was a Junior in high school they decided they wanted to take in a contest down in Orlando Florida.  So the money raising was put into place and the plans and dates of the trip were decided.  I was fortunate enough to be a chaperone of this big event and what a memory it was.  It will be with me for a very long time.  The kids were so well behaved and they should have been so proud as they brought home this big huge trophy that I hope still is in the show case at the school.  “Way to go Cheryl”   You have done the school proud.�
�
Thanks for the memories.
�
Dave Slyter (70) 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gary,

This has been the most interesting reading. Thanks for all the
work you are doing to keep the history of Dunseith alive. It
seems many of us remember several of the same things with only
minor variations probably do to our own perspectives of that
memory at that time. I do very vividly remember the sunny day
when Capt. Bill Hosmer and his wingmen decided to dust off
Main Street in Dunseith. How many towns of fewer than 800 have
ever had a private aerobatic show by the Thunderbirds? Bill,
thanks for the memories. One other thing that I remember is
going to the show at the Althea. I remember stopping first at
Said (Sy) Kadrys pool hall for a Sugar Daddy sucker. We all
waited for the show hall to open and would lay the suckers on
the sidewalk so they would freeze. When the Hackman kids would
open the door everyone would grab their Sugar Daddys and break
them like glass. Then in the show you could eat a piece at a
time without getting all sticky. Smart kids. In the late 50’s
and most of the 60’s you could have a night out for 25 cents.
The show ticket was $.10, pop $.5,popcorn was $.10! My how
things have changed!I have many good memories of growing up in
Dunseith and I encourage others to share their stories with us.
On a current note; Kenny Nerpel asked about our music group,
The Turtle Mountain Hillbilly Band. We will be playing in Minot
at The Frozen Fingers Bluegrass Festival Feb.9 at 1PM This is
at the hotel at Dakota Square Mall.If you attend be sure to
come find us after the gig. I did hear a recording of Kenny and
his wife Sherry doing several songs, it was very good.  Hope to
see any of our old friends there. Again, thanks
Gary!            

Dick Johnson

 

 

Message From Mel Kuhn (70): 

 

Hello Gary, many, many thanks for the fond memories of Dunseith. As I read many of these, I ask myself who are half these people, of course I remember the names but for the life of me, cannot picture them. Being from the class of 76 of course explains it, (we all get to turn the big 50 this year) but I do have such fond memories that I could not pass up the chance to mention but a few. I often go back to Dunseith and as I drive thru main street, I remember there use to be such stores as Gambles, The Pool Hall, the Laundromat, the Bowling Alley, Hosmer’s Dept Stores, The Movie Theater, Moe’s Gas Station (?), The Dakota Hotel, San Haven (the big turning event in Dunseith)walking thru the tunnels with the Hagel Clan, (yes Denise you remember those good old days) , the A/C Bar and The Corner Bar. I remember Friday and Saturday nights cruising main street and trying to find a beer runner…(oops did I say that) Not too forget the many memories of going to high school in Dunseith, the homecoming parades, the football and basketball games, (going to State in 72) the floats made by each class, the marching band (remember we use to have one, anyone remember the big hats…did we ever march with those on???)

The many high school concerts, those were the days, performing for our families and friends. (anyone remember the Music Festivals) Hermanson’s Bakery, he was such a good man, he use to give us credit and loved those baked goods. I remember snowmobile parties with my classmates, I remember going to many parties at Beer Can Alley, Halvorson’s Grove, The Butte, and the Gravel Pit.

I can go on and on about the good times spent in Dunseith North Dakota, but wanted to mention but a few things that I remember and do pop up from time to time when visiting with old friends, I guess that is why they call them memories. I do enjoy the stories from people and how time changes. Although we go our separate ways in life, we tend to always go back to our roots and I am very proud to say I grew up in Dunseith North Dakota!!

Once again thank you Gary for allowing us to walk down Memory Lane!!! Oh and by the way…as always the Class of 76 Rules!!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gary, and other Dunseith folks. A recent package of comments, memories,
and other recollections was a dense concentration of interesting
dialogue.

I happened to be in the Stone Church in Dunseith, sitting next to
Mabel Boardman who was holding Don before his baptism. He sang in
Church for the first time, probably, since he was a very young tike.
It was mostly a “WAH” rather that hymnal in nature, but I was
observing a beginning of a long time musical avocation. I knew his
brothers Bob and Harold very well. I have read about his work in
Bottineau County over the years.

I was two years behind Don Johnson and Bernice Olson in high school
at Dunseith, and they both were very good friends. Dick and Brenda
have established themselves in the musical world, and thanks to Wayne
Smith, I got to spend a pleasurable evening at his terrific facility
west of Lake Metigoshe and enjoy hours of top notch entertainment by
those two and many others from that part of the world. I’ll
certainly be returning for future engagements when I return from the
SW. That is a tremendous feature that the Turtle Mountain citizens
have built right in.

The conversations about pie made me remember that our neighbor
Florence Sunderland and my mother, Inez Hosmer used to deliver a
sampling of cookies, brownies, etc to each other when a new batch
took form. My brothers and I would feast on those fresh delights
(still warm). I used to shovel a path through the snow from door to
door, so there wouldn”t be and delays in delivery. Patsy Sunderland
and I at a pre school age used to walk around the town to places
like Mrs Isaacson, wife of Carl SR. and Mrs Higgins, wife of Frank,
and get cookie and milk treats on the back steps of their kitchens
during summer months. The cookie jar in our kitchen was usually
stocked, and most of the time there was a chocolate cake with thick
chocolate frosting in reach for after school treats. The aromas that
occurred in that kitchen was a joy. I hope its getting close to
dinner, because my mouth is watering, although desserts are the
exception nowadays.

Bill Fassett’s daughters have been generous with important picutes
of people so familiar to me. It certainly is a gift to have this
interaction going on.

Another memory out of the past is that my mother used to help with
baby birthing events, as she, Lenore Lamoureux, wife of Leo, Hattie
Lilleby, wife of Arnold were registered nurses. I was quite young
but accompanied mother to the Grimme home above the shoe shop on
mainstreet, near the show hall (Althea Theater). I was standing in
the living room with Mr. Grimme and we heard Conley’s first cry.
Mr. Grimme said, “My God”. Bill Grimme came later.

Getting back to food for a bit, it was a tremendous challenge to
walk by Pat McAtee’s bakery without stopping when the Bismarck’s
were being put on display. They cost a nickel, and sometimes they
were hard to come by when we were kids. One source for money was
picking up soda and beer bottles in the ditches and return them for
1cent each. After a dance, they were prevalent and we even used to
get enough pennies to pay for the movie which was a dime for awhile
when I was young. We did not miss many movies. One time my brother
Don and I attended a Sunday matinee, after eating a hot pork
combination sandwich at the Peace Garden Cafe which was two doors
south of the drugstore. The movie was “Blood and Sand” with Tyrone
Power who was a bull fighter. When we got home, Dad’s ear was next
to the radio, and he told us we were at war. It was 7 Dec 1941, and
he had been listenting to President F D Roosevelt. That really
changed our lives in a big way. Pat McAtee became our Boy Scout
Troop Scoutmaster, and we got busy collecting paper, tin cans,
bacon fat and doing all the other things scouts did then. The troop
is pictured on page 311 of PRAIRIE PAST AND MOUNTAIN MEMORIES.

Then our men started to leave for war, and it really was a dramatic
time as they finished their training assignments, then came home on
furlough before they got into the fight. We had these young men in
every branch of the service. The Cornell family had four sons at war
at the same time. We younger guys would try to talk with them, though
their time was limited, because we wanted to know what it was like.
They were certainly our heroes without question. They certainly did
become the Generation which Tom Brokaw described in an impressive way.

Way too long this time, but it might trigger some recollections from
others, who have been doing it so well. Cheers, Bill Hosmer

 

 

 

 

 

In reply to Bob Hosmer—–The picture of Jack Flynn and Bob Hosmer was taken in June of 1955 at Lake Metigoshe at Jack and Inez’ cabin. There are more pics from that day also. I will try and forward some more of them later. My sister, Crystal, has all of dad’s old slides and is scanning all of them and putting them on our flckr website for all to see. There are some interesting old pics there.

To Larry H. — I hope you eat that apple pie with a generous slice of cheese. My mom and Grandma Kate and Grandma Goodie were some of the best pie bakers around. Sadly, I did not inherit that skill. And there is nothing wrong with people who like sauerkraut, lutefisk and limberger cheese(althought my husband may argue otherwise–Ha!!).

Keep the memories and thoughts coming. Hugs and prayers to all. Susan(Fassett) Martin

 

 

 

 

 

Gary, In reply to the Bob Hosmer & Jack Flynn picture. It was taken by my Dad Bill Fassett,at the Hosmer’s cabin at Lake Metigoshe. The occasion was Father’s Day 1955 ,but it WAS the Hosmers’ lawn chairs. I am in the process of putting all my Dad’s slides on computer,so I can share them with sisters , cousins & kids. Dad took lots of slides ,so it may take me until next winter to finish,but it fun to see all the “little” kids and the “old” area sights. Lots of St.Paul Butte,Lake Metigoshe & Bottineau County Fair parades,as well as anything that went on in Dunseith. Susan is the correspondent in our family,I am only the “editor” but try to read most the emails. Thanks Crystal Fassett Andersen Walhalla ND

 

hi Gary, Please pass on to all the great people that have sent me good wishes and prayers A GREAT BIG THANK U . I will be having surgery on the 25th. I will lose 75% of my tongue and will have to learn to speak and eat all over again. Sounds like it will be a long road bk but I have the greatest family and support system. I love reading all the memories ,,, I may not be able to answer for awhile but I am reading … my wonderful husband got me a laptop so I can play with my pogo friends and keep in touch with u all…. I will be able to talk with my kids on I’m and my sisters also. thank god for the net. love and prayers to u all… Randy thanks so much for the letter I enjoyed it A lot but Clarence wants to know how u cold forget him lol …… If any of u smoke please stop ….this is what caused my cancer . It is easy to give up when u want to live . Please don’t wait till u have to go through this before u see the light. love ya all Bev