Highland's first graduating class holds reunion

The first graduating class of the Highland Community School District celebrated its 50th class reunion on Aug. 16, 2014, at the Riverside Casino and Golf Resort.

The Class of 1964 numbered 59 students, 46 of whom are living today. Of these classmates, 35 were present at the reunion, plus one guest, who attended Riverside High School for many years.

Thirteen classmates are deceased: Dennis Dautremont (1968), Karl Gould (1974), Ruth Ann (Edwards) Drummand (1987), Tom Gesling (1996), Pat McDole (1999), Jim Duwa (2001), Karen Lophshire (2003), Ardell Gerot (2003), Joe Wenger (2006), Dottie (Knebel) Krantz (2008), Joe Kaufman (2011), Janet (Gerot) Yeggy (2014), and Beth (Shebek) Haladyna (2014). These former classmates were remembered in a memorable tribute presented by Diane Flynn, Stan McCreedy and Bill Schmidt.

The evening began with a social hour, where friendships were renewed, tales of the past remembered, followed by a short program. The master of ceremonies, Ron Southwick, gave a brief history of Highland and reminded all of the historic events from 50 years ago. Carolyn (Martin) McKinstry and husband Steve entertained the class with a medley of hits from 1963-64. Door prizes, collected by Bob Jenn and donated by generous patrons, ended the formal program. However, the evening didn't end for most classmates, as visiting and reminiscing was enjoyed until the end of the evening.

Class reunion attendees traveled from Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Minnesota, New Mexico, and various cities in Iowa to participate in this special milestone. The reunion was planned by a committee of the following: Diane Flynn, Bob Jenn, Betty (Watkinson) Hamilton, Stan McCreedy, Sherry (Bouquot) Nicola, Ron Southwick, Larry Thomann, and Jim Wilson.

The class appreciates the efforts of Tina Thomann, who designed the cover for the program booklet and to Deb McCreedy for taking photos of the event.