Editor: Roleta Smith Meredith
Publisher: Jalon Smith Burton
CLARKSBURG PARADES
Dear Readers:
What do you
remember about the Christmas Parade in Clarksburg down Main Street each year?
Do they still have the parade?
Write your memories
and share them with us. Roleta1@aol.com
Here is what Arreta
Jaranko (WI 1940) remembers:
One of the things I remember so well about Clarksburg was the parades,
especially in November. My mother loved the parades and she would get us ready
early as we walked to town from Stealey. Her brother, my Uncle Frank, was a
veteran of the First World War and if he was going to be in the parade, she
wanted to be in a position where we could see him. We were little kids and she
would carry my youngest brother and try to keep the rest of us close to her. The
parade on November 11 was called the "Armistice Day" parade because
when Peace was declared, the Armistice was signed on that date. During the First
World War the Germans used "mustard gas" against our troops and my
uncle had been gassed. Mother told us that he was never well after that and eventually
he passed away from cancer of the throat. We loved seeing him in his Army
uniform. It was quite a contrast to what we would see when the World War II
veterans became part of the parades. When I was in high school it was always
fun to see the WI band. The Majorettes were always gorgeous in their uniforms
and waving their batons. I remember Mr. Arms had the music at WI. I forget the
name of the man who took over when Mr Arms left but he was a true bandmaster.
So many high school bands would participate along with so many other
organizations. There was so much noise and excitement, people shouting and
calling out to each other. One year my mother was president of the VFW Women's
Auxiliary and I drove her in the parade! It was exciting for her to be a part
of it. The women marched in the parade and they had made a big sign for my car
announcing who they were and that their president was riding in that car.
Sometime during those years the Thanksgiving Parade started taking place. Santa
Claus would be riding and the little children would crowd around to the curb so
they could see him. Those were wonderful days, Roleta. Thank you for the
opportunity to write about them.
Walter E. "Jack" Rollins (September
15, 1906 – January 1, 1973) was an American musician of Keyser, West Virginia. Along with Steve Nelson, he co-wrote "Here Comes
Peter Cottontail," used in the Easter special of the same name, in 1949,
and "Frosty the Snowman" in 1950. Jack Rollins also wrote
"Smokey the Bear" for the public-service mascot Smokey Bear, and co-wrote many country songs for artists such as Gene Autry, Hank Snow, George Jones and Eddy
Arnold.
Rollins died on January 1, 1973, and is buried in Queens Point
Memorial Cemetery in Keyser.
Click on the video below and dance around with Frosty the Snowman!
Click on the video below and dance around with Frosty the Snowman!
"Frosty
the Snowman" (or "Frosty
the Snow Man") is a popular Christmas song written by Walter "Jack" Rollins and Steve
Nelson, and first recorded by Gene
Autry and the Cass County Boys in 1950.
It was written after the success of Autry's recording of "Rudolph the
Red-Nosed Reindeer" the previous year; Rollins and Nelson shipped the new
song to Autry, who recorded "Frosty" in search of another seasonal
hit. Like "Rudolph", "Frosty" was subsequently adapted to
other media including a popular television special Frosty the Snowman. The ancillary
rights to the Frosty the Snowman character are owned by Warner Bros., but due to the prominence of
the TV special, merchandising of the character is generally licensed in tandem
with that special's current owners, DreamWorks
Classics.
Information from: Wikipedia
To read the article on WV Public Broadcasting’s
website ‘West Virginian Responsible for Classic Christmas Song, Frosty the
Snowman’ CLICK HERE
A
CHRISTMAS KEEPSAKE
From: Gwen Clark
(Victory HS 1956)
This was a wedding
ring patterned quilt that my great-grandmother pieced and quilted sometime in
the 1800's. It was in very bad condition so my Mother and I decided to use what
we could and make Christmas stockings for my family. We put together 5 and I
then cross-stitched names on each one. The one big mistake we made was that we
made them entirely too large. Some Christmas's I had to stuff them with grocery
bags as the items for them were not large enough to fill. LOL We put a pocket
inside each one with a note telling about them - the date they were made, who
made the quilt and who put together the stockings. They were made with much
love.
EDITOR’S NOTE: What a wonderful
idea. I wish I had some of the quilts my mother and grandmother had made; this
would be a terrific use for the good sections of those well worn quilts.
From: John Teter
(WI 1961)
The first ornament
that I can remember from "back in the day" was a white star that sat
on top of our Christmas trees each and every year. One time when we were
decorating the tree, the white star did not work. My dad worked with it for a
while to try to fix it but to no avail. So, he sent his kids to town to buy a
new tree "topper". I do not remember my brother (Bob) going to town
with me but I definitely remember my sister (Lib) going with me. I do not
remember where we shopped or for how long, but we finally found the perfect
replacement, so we bought it and went home. When our dad opened the box with
the new tree "topper", he started laughing. We could not figure out
what he was laughing so hard about - UNTIL HE TOLD US THAT WE HAD BOUGHT THE
SAME EXACT STAR THAT HAD BEEN ON THE TREE FROM THE BEGINNING!
EDITOR’S NOTE: Well that just
proves that you really were satisfied with what had always been on top of your
tree.
From: Jim Ashley
(WI 1962)
The little houses in the photo predate me (and
I am dated 1944). They were always under our Christmas tree and I looked
forward to being the one to take them out of their storage box and to put up
each year. They are made of cardboard and consist of 7 cottages and a white
church. In the 32 years that my wife and I have been together, they are always
set up on a dining room cabinet along with other keepsakes she has accumulated
over the years.
From: Nancy Swing
(WI 1961)
Many thanks for
giving me the opportunity to share with others what two very special ornaments
mean to me.
This hand-blown
glass bird belonged to my maternal grandmother. See how its feet clip onto the
tree? You never see that anymore. The ornament has been preserved through many
moves, both by my mother and now me, and is the only one remaining from that
era. "Grammy" was a remarkable woman whose husband died suddenly,
leaving her with three very young children to raise in the teens of the last
century. Then her brother-in-law cheated her out of her inheritance, giving her
a double-blow within a few months. She rose to the occasion, running a farm
with little help, nurturing those children into successful lives, and living
all her days according to her Baptist faith. Whenever I take this ornament from
its tissue each Christmas, I breathe a little prayer that I can follow her
lead.
Here's another
ornament made by hand, this one created by my mother and other women during
World War II, when there were no luxuries to be had in the stores. They took
apart wooden matchboxes, cut them into the right shapes, glued them back
together and painted them to look like little lanterns. If you look carefully,
you can even see the twisted copper wire at the top for hanging. It's one of a
set of six, and I'm proud to say that I still have them all, each in a
different color. These little wooden lanterns are very fragile, but they remind
me of the strength and resilience of the women who struggled to create a normal
life for their families during the dark days of the Second World War.
These photos and memories come with best wishes to all ‘Clarksburgers’,
near and far, for a Hope-full New Year.
EDITOR’S NOTE: Thank you Nancy,
I love your ornaments and I am so glad you shared your story about them and the
pictures so I really understand why you love them.
There is still time
for you to write about that special ornament or keepsake. Also, I would love to
hear about your family Christmas or Hanukkah tradition.
Write to Roleta1@aol.com
From: Dave Bates (WI 1951)
In the Bates clan, the
Christmas tree was decorated by Santa after he came down the chimney which had
our stockings (at the time, all the grade school boys wore knickers so there
was no shortage of knee socks) hung over the fire place. Our neighbor had four
girls, no boys, so every year they borrowed stockings from us. My brothers and
sister received the usual load, but, PRAISE THE LORD! Santa filled my stocking
with onions (my first love then...and now). He knew what I liked! As in many
homes, the tree skirt was surrounded by a train track. Under the tree was a
manger scene with a Lincoln Log manger constructed by me and my brother.
From: Anita White
(WI 1948)
One of my most
memorable Christmas's was in the mid "30's. We lived in Clarksburg and my
maternal grandparents lived on a unpaved road between Romines Mills and Lost
Creek. My Dad would drive up Rt.20 as far as the road was surfaced. When we got
to the road to my Grandparents, usually near an old covered bridge, Dad would
park the car. My Grandfather Young would meet us in a sleigh with hay in it and
a big old horse pulling it. My Mom, Dad, uncle, aunt, cousins, and I would
climb on board and have a big old hay ride to my Grandparents home. For kids
that was a highlight of Christmas. We sang, laughed and had a glorious morning
SALT RISING BREAD
I wonder how that
bread got its name?
A bakery, that makes salt
rising bread, was mentioned in the last newsletter.
Bob Patterson (Victory
HS 1954) was kind enough to send us further information:
Website address for salt rising bread: Risingcreekbakery.com.
It's located in Mt. Morris, PA.
WIN SCHOLARSHIP QUILT
Pictured below is a the square made by Kitty Sager for the WIN Scholarship Quilt. The name of
the square is “Sun Bonnet Sue”
Pictured below is a the square made by Barbara Charles for the quilt
Pictured below is the
2nd square made by Barb Charles for the 2017 WIN Scholarship Quilt
THOSE WHO GAVE THIS MONTH and
RECEIVED TICKETS FOR THE QUILT DRAWING
RECEIVED TICKETS FOR THE QUILT DRAWING
John C. Allen
Willaim (Bill) Bryan
(RW)
Barbara Allen Gordo
Bud Collins
Beth Twigg Devericks
Fred Dunham - so sorry to report that Fred Dunham passed
away shortly after he sent his check to the WIN Scholarship
Tony Marchio
Nancy Swing
Nancy S. Tonkin
A big thank you to
each person who has helped support the WIN Scholarship.
Remember no check is
too small or too large. Every penny goes into the WIN Scholarship bank account
to be used only for the scholarships.
Make your check payable to:
Roleta
Meredith c/o WIN Scholarship
And mail to:
Roleta
Meredith
3201 Charles
MacDonald Drive
Sarasota, FL
34240
For November and December, I have only received $1145.00 for
the scholarship. Can’t we do better than that? Please let’s make this pot grow.
By the way, I sent the second semester installment to
Cassidy Shae Pinion. Cassidy has done a terrific job while in school at WVU her
first semester. This money goes into the student’s financial aid account.
SNOW, SNOW, SNOW
From: Alice White (WI
1948)
When I went to Alta
Vista, we always walked to school in snow up to our waist, at least, no school
buses no cancelling school for snow. However, one morning Dad drove my cousin
and I to school. Just as we went around the corner of Harrison St. onto Point
Street, the car door flew open and Richard fell out in a big snow bank. No
injuries, but lots of laughs.
We also did not
have lunches at school. However sometimes on really bad days our awesome
principal, Mr. Lawson, would go down in the kitchen and cook a big pot of beans
or vegetable soup, or something warm for the kids to eat. It was always
delicious, too.
EDITOR’S NOTE: Do you have any
memories of snow when you were small? Write and tell us your good or your worse
memory of snow.
Write to Roleta1@aol.com
JANUARY MYSTERY PICTURE
Can you identify this? What was its use? Do you know anything about it? (Don’t look up the information; I want you to tell me what you know). Did you or someone you know have one? Tell us about the car that it was on. Give us the scoop... we want to know!
Send your guess to Roleta1@aol.com. I only print correct answers.
From: Brooke Beall
(NDHS 1958)
Pictured above is the house where I was born.
I was born in Hedgesville, WV (Berkeley County) at approximately 7:15 am, on
October 3, 1940. The home belonged to my Grandparents, M. A. & Edith
Robbins. The house was built as a log home and later sided. It is still
standing and for sale. My family has not owned the house for many years, but it
has been kept in pretty good shape. I was born in the upstairs bedroom on the left
side of the house. During WWII my mother moved back into this home while my
father was in the army. My mother, brother, and I lived here until my father
returned. We moved to Clarksburg in late October 1946. This picture was taken
about six years ago. A side note: when I was a small child there was no
sidewalk in front of the house, just a flagstone walk. When we moved back in
during WWII my grandmother told my grandfather that I needed a sidewalk because
I could not ride my tricycle on the flagstone. He had a sidewalk put in. Keep
up the good work on the WI Newsletter…I have enjoyed it from the very first
issue.
From: Stephen R. Snyder (WI 1962}
Dear Roleta:
My brother, Bernard J. Snyder (WI 1959) and I were both born at
Fairmont General Hospital and were issued hospital birth certificates.
Bernard's certificate is unique in that the image of the hospital is an
architectural rendering, and the drive in front is lined with palm trees. I
still believe the architect never visited Fairmont.
p.s. Your newsletter is a work of art and the source of many great
conversations.
From: Ann Brannon Pushkin (WI 1952)
I want to thank you for the many hours you have spent developing,
designing, and editing The WI Newsletter. You’ve done a superb
job.
I can’t imagine that the following story is worth “publishing,” but
you asked that individuals write you about their birthplace:
I was born on January 15, 1935, in my maternal grandparents’
bedroom in Spencer, WV. My breathing was not functioning well so I was taken to
a very rural hospital where I was placed in a crude “steam cradle”. Remember
that this was in 1935 before incubators. Because my loving Mother had a
fourteen-month old sibling at home, she had to trek from home to the hospital
every few hours to nurse me. The winter weather didn’t help the situation
either – front-wheel and four-wheel drive vehicles were not common modes of
travel in 1935. Every time I hear a young mother complain about the hardships
of motherhood, I have to look toward heaven to say, “Thanks Mom.”
We would love your
help here.
Tell us a little about
where you lived while you were in school in Clarksburg... during your Elementary School years... your High School years...
What street did you live on? Did you live in a big house? ...a
small house? Would it be a house that our WI Newsletter readers would recognize? Who lived in the house with you?
Tell us your ‘house’
story. And... do you happen to have a picture of it?
Send your story (and photo) to Roleta1@aol.com
WI 1955 DECEASED CLASSMATES
James Allen
Nick Alvaro
Richard Neil Armour
Sue Holt Barr
Donald Bever
Judy Schlicker Bower
Saundra Besterman Sammons
Ronald Brown
Sam Albert Bellotte
Beth Ann Robinson Carlen
Minter Chapman
Ronald Chartrand
Paul Clayton
Robert Clousson
Ronald Cork
Jean Bevan Cottrill
David "Butch" Cunningham
James Deison
Joan Selario Dickey
Margaret Wise Fultz
Beuren Garten
Ralph Hardy
Robert Hart
Donald Highland
Patricia Donnellan Hurst
Amelia Dysh Jurick
Denise Kearns
Carolyn Wilfong Kehrt
Sue Ann Reger Miller
Robert Morris
Patricia Tiano Oakes
Carol Sue Costlow Reager
Sandra Leaseburg Riggs
Sally Orr Rogers
Ronnie Underwood
Jacqueline Loria Taylor
Betty Taylor Wagner
Kenneth Wagner
Helen Jo Weekley
Edward Westfall
Roger White
James Zigmont
Thank you to Peggy Morris for keeping this record and sharing it
with others via the WI NEWSLETTER.
EDITOR’S NOTE:
We are sorry to report this list of the deceased from the class of 1960
Do you or one of your classmates have a list of the deceased classmates from your class? I would like to honor them by listing them here so others can take a moment to remember them.
Send the list to Roleta1@aol.com
GERARD FOLIO
From: Jack Bowen (WI 1957)
I played with
Gerard from circa 1957 to 1961 off and on, and sometimes sat in with The
Chords. Gerard and I and Sammy Jo Marra and Vergil Palma played in dives and
worse all over Clarksburg and various places nearby: The Knotty Pine, Midway
Manor, Billie’s Meadowbrook, The Airport Tavern, and a joint run by Guy Buffe
(spell?). Guy ran an after hours club, out of which we had to fight our way, a
few times.
Also played for
Catfish Alio (spell?) at the Airport Tavern with Curly Harris and various other
local players. Lots of amazing fights! I was sitting at the piano once and did
not play a requested song, and ducked just in time when a “lady” tried to hit
me over the head with a folding chair. Don Cinci had his ear badly cut there
one night. Hope you are ok, Don!
Sammy M. named our
band The Mystics. Four less mystical fellows ever existed. Gerard and I spent
lots of time together and became good friends. I hope he is still doing well
and that Vergil and Sammy still flourish.
Have lost touch
with them. I could tell you some good stories about the times we spent together,
some of it indelicate. Here’s my phone # 412 531 6202. I have a CD of the
Prodigals that Alvin Garrett gave me. Gerard used to borrow my Les Paul 1959
Sunburst guitar, now worth about 1 million dollars. Wish I still had it.
Hope I spelled all
the names properly, but I did my best. Best wishes to all, Jack, and Rita
Drummond Bowen.
DECEMBER MYSTERY PICTURE
From: Mary Sue
Spahr (WI 1956)
I think the mystery
picture for this issue is the State Prison at Moundsville. If it is what I
think it is, I've never seen it up close and personal (thank goodness.) Many
people died there by hanging. I have no idea if the electric chair was in use
prior to the closure of the facility. Anyway, I would decline a tour if offered
because it surely must be full of ghosts and spirits, some of whom are restless
because they were not guilty but executed anyway. If we stop and think about
the lack of DNA evidence currently in use but not back then and the great
progress made in analyzing trace evidence, it is not hard to believe that at
least a few innocent folks were killed by hanging.
From: Bob Kramer
(WI 1965)
This is the State
Penitentiary in Moundsville. They have tours for the public. I was there for
one of the riots there in the 70's with the WV National Guard. They had 925
inmates there at the time. They were there for a reason. It was not a Holiday
Inn. Capital punishment was not in effect. When it was, they used the electric
chair called “Old Sparky”. The conditions were terrible.
From: Don Sager (WI 1956)
I will venture a guess that this is an old picture of the State
Penitentiary in Moundsville. I did not ever see it until I was in my 40’s. I drove over to Moundsville one
time on my way to Pittsburgh from Dayton just for the
heck of it. When we were kids in Broad Oaks our parents used to threaten us
with Pruntytown when we
misbehaved. I don’t remember ever being threatened with Moundsville. Biggest attraction of the prison was a discussion of the
Electric Chair. However, I did have a close relative by marriage who had a
brother sentenced to life in prison at Moundsville. I just heard about this a few of years ago. Never discussed
when I was younger.
From: Dave McCue
(WI 1965)
The mystery picture looks to me like the old
state prison at Moundsville, WV.
When we were in criminal law our first year at
WVU, all students had to “go to jail” in Moundsville to see what a maximum
security lock up was like. I still recall the cold steel doors slamming loudly
behind us as we entered and my genuine relief when we exited. The cells were
quite small and walking inside the prison you could look outside but only see
the high grey stone walls. Against a winter sky that was also grey, but it was
really quite bleak. Adding to the excitement were the real prisoners
incarcerated calling out to us as we were given “the tour”. This was 1972. This
trip always was fresh on my mind later as I did represent folks accused of
crimes that could send them “up the river” to Moundsville.
Thanks for a superb job on the Newsletter and
all that you do for WI and its alumni.
From: Jon Iaconis
(WI 1959)
The WV state
penitentiary operated from 1876 to 1995; it is now closed except for guided
tours.
There were 85
convicts hanged and 9 electrocuted.
Across the street
is the Grave Creek Mound. It is over 2,000 years old. It is one of the largest
mounds.
There are hundreds
of mounds throughout mid-America.
Moundsville is a
city of 9,300 people. Several notable people include: David Grubb - "The
Night of the Hunter" and Archie Moore, governor.
Also worthwhile is
visiting Prabhupada Palace of Gold.
In Clarksburg, WV;
there are two-small mounds and I have not been able to find them. The sign is
misleading as to there location. I will try again when I am in town.
PEPPERONI ROLLS
So, you say you
like pepperoni rolls? Well, we all know that the best ones are made in
Clarksburg in a little tiny 100 year old bakery located in the Glen Elk
district of town. Now can’t you smell them? Well, here is a link that will help
you imagine the wonderful taste of those pepperoni rolls when they come out of
the backroom of the bakery and are still too hot to close the bags!
TIME TO THANK THAT TEACHER
Write and tell us
what teacher most influenced you or what teacher do you think taught you
something that you have used all your life.
Here is a letter
from Sally Anne Pulice that gave me the idea to have you write about this
subject
From: Sally Anne
Pulice (WI 1969)
I have often
written that I so enjoyed Miss Virginia Nutter's Latin 1 and Junior English
classes. I know I am in the minority. But, I would really be remiss if I didn't
mention that the teacher that likely helped me the most in my eventual life's
work was Janet Robinson. Ms. Robinson taught typing. As a speech and language
pathologist I am continually writing (typing), first on a manual typewriter,
then an electric one, and now laptop computers. Thank you, Ms. Robinson. You
certainly had a long lasting positive impact on my life. I have very fond
memories of your typing class, and I remember you wore matching, beautiful
jewelry.
Sports Editor: Bill Meredith
HUGGINS
Below is
a link to an article written by Gary Parrish for CBS Sports about Bob Huggins.
I found it very interesting and I hope you will, too.
To Bill:
I usually hesitate to write about sports as I am a Va Tech
alum and not WVU. Most, if not all of your readers could care less about my
'Hokies'. Given that, I read the predictions for the 'Eeers' and conclude that
most of you are pessimists by nature. I was the exact same way about my Hokies,
thinking we would have a year not unlike Beamer's last three, when we had to
beat UVa to become bowl eligible. At any rate, it was a pleasant surprise in
both cases. I thought there was a chance we might meet in a bowl, but. Would
have been an interesting match up. Before the season, I thought we might get to
a 6-6 record, so 9-3 is indeed a surprise. We apparently have gotten a good coach
in Fuente and were fortunate to have gotten the No. 1 JUCO QB in the nation a
year ago.
Always a pleasure to see you and Roleta in Clarksburg and
I do enjoy your writings in the newsletter very much. Keep up the good work - I
might even find some more to write since golf season is about over for us. We
just have to pick our days to play when it is sunny and 50 - 60 degrees.
Bob Teter (WI 1960)
Reply to Bob:
We welcome letters or comments about any sport or team, so
I really appreciate your writing to us. I think everyone was quite surprised by
both the WVU and Hokie seasons. And, you are absolutely right about Mountaineer
fans being pessimists. If you want to read about how we feel, read
"Waiting for the Fall", a book written by Mike Casazza, who covers
WVU sports for the Charleston newspaper. Of course, I believe most people in
and from West Virginia think that the rest of the country gives the state and
its people no respect. That makes us very defensive when others discuss the
state and, at times, pessimistic about its future.
Thanks again for the comments. I hope to hear from you
again soon.
Bill (billmere@aol.com)
Hey Bill:
Don’t feel badly about underestimating the Mountaineers. I
did a little better at 9-3, but I knew they would lose for sure to Oklahoma and
Oklahoma State. I thought TCU would beat them also.
You are correct in saying the talent level was down at the
other schools. I admire the ole’ coach at Kansas State - don’t bet on him
retiring soon. I think he coaches football better than any other coach in the
league.
Regards to you, Roleta and her sister for a great year
with the newsletter as well and have a great Christmas.
Rich Newbrough (BHS 1955)
Reply to Rich:
I need to congratulate you on winning the contest with
your 9--3 prediction. I was at 6--6, while about everyone else settled on 7--5.
We'll be sending you your prize after the holidays.
I agree that Bill Snyder is a great coach. He's almost as
old as I am and still working hard. Like you, I really admire him. He can make
a pretty good team out of Jr. College players, a few walk-on's and his two and
three star recruits. Also, I've never heard an unkind word said or written
about him. That tells me a lot about the man.
Thanks for writing and again, Congratulations!
Bill (billmere@aol.com)
I received the following note from Augie Malfregeot (WI
1956), along with several articles about Jimbo Fisher being courted by LSU to
be their new head football coach.
Bill:
Here are some articles about one of Clarksburg's biggest
achievers. He lived in Northview and I believe he went to Liberty, as Victory
had been closed. My first year of life was also in Northview.
Benedum, the oil man from Bridgeport, was possibly
bigger than Fisher.
Thanks to Augie for sending this for us to enjoy. I hope
to hear from him again soon.
CLICK HERE to read the article.
To Bill:
Okay, Billy. We've discussed this briefly before, but
since you opened the door with your "Bo Jackson/Star Athlete" piece,
I'm going to walk through it.
I'm proposing an "Outstanding Athlete" award be
set up recognizing the best all-around high school athlete ever to strap on a
jock within the Harrison County School District. (Ya gotta draw the line
somewhere.) I propose this award be named "The Hitesman Trophy" in
honor of the greatest (IMHO) and longest-serving multi-sport high school coach
in Harrison County - Clay B. Hite. Nominees should be themselves be multi-sport
lettermen at their schools for at least two of the four years of secondary
education. You should consider candidates not only from WI, but RW, Victory,
St. Marys/Notre Dame, Bridgeport, Unitas, Shinnston, Kelly Miller, Liberty, Salem,
Bristol, and RCB. (Did I miss any?) While I don't expect nominations prior to
WWII, I suggest you welcome names and stories beginning in 1940, going forward
to the present.
In the past I have extolled the virtues the
"brothers" Pollicano, Wanstreet, + Buddy Philbin St. Marys basketball
team of the late 1940s as the "Most Outstanding Team" I ever saw in Harrison
County. Now, I'm looking for the "Most Outstanding Player (MOP) & Leader".
As I left the area in the mid-50s, I shall leave it to younger folks to add
their thoughts to later-blossoming athletes. However, I will begin the process
by suggesting a few names for your consideration ordered chronologically.
1. Bill Moore - WI - 1943. (FB/BB/T&F) I believe he
captained all three sports; went on to play @ WV Wesleyan and later coached @
WI. He graduated with my sister and I only knew him personally through her eyes
but my understanding is that he was an outstanding person, athlete and leader.
He is my "sentimental" candidate from years gone by.
2. Dave Corsini - WI – 1950 (FB/BB/T&F) Undoubtedly
the MOP & Leader throughout the late forties. With the nickname of
"Tank", he personified Coach Hite's style in both football &
basketball and supported Coach Earl Orme in Track & Field in the Spring.
After a stint in the service, Dave went on to play at Salem College later in
the 1950s. He went on to a successful career in baking. Dave never got the
recognition he deserved in athletics but he is at the top of my list here.
3. Gilbert (Punky) Goodwin - WI - 1952 (FB/BB/T&F?) My
classmate and teammate in both FB & BB. Punky made the varsity FB squad as
a freshman running back and prospered over the following three years. He
transitioned to QB when Coach Tony Folio replaced Coach Hite in 1951 and
brought in a completely new system - (The "T" Formation!!). Punky
captained our squad and led us to the Big Ten Championship (8-1) and 4th in the
State. (Lost to Parkersburg - 33-7! Punky left w/concussionin the 2nd qtr.)
Punky went to WVU on scholarship but was injured early and often. He went on to
coach at the high school level in NJ. (He's my "homer" candidate)
So there are my three nominees, guys. I'm sure both Bill
& I would love to hear from many more of you regarding the MOPs of your
era. This is not a competition as much as it's a pat on the back, post-mortem
or not, for those people we cheered and respected during a different time and
place. Several names come to mind. I'm eager to hear from you!
PS - My apologies to both the single sport stars (of which
there were many) and any women who may have come to the fore later in the
century. I'm a prisoner of my own time.
Joe Malone (WI 1952)
Reply to Joe:
As you mention, we have talked about something like this
for awhile. I really expected several responses to my question in last month's
Newsletter, about the best all-around athlete at your school while you were
there. Blame it on the Holiday Season or whatever, but you are the only reader
to offer an opinion. In fact, you have taken it one step further, by suggesting
your "Hitesman Trophy".
So now it is up to all of our other readers. Tell us what
you think of this idea. Better still, send us you nominations. I would love to
participate in something like this for my home county, if only to find out what
others think and bring back names and memories long lost. As Joe said, this is
not a competition, but a recognition of those who made you proud to be a
teammate or fan.
The challenge has been made. Will you answer it? Send your
nominations and comments to me.
Bill (billmere@aol.com)
ONLY ONE
Do you want to bring
back some pleasant memories?
Below is a video
entitled, "Only One", a highlight film of Tavon Austin's senior year.
I loved watching him at WVU and try to catch a Rams game if he is playing. I
especially enjoyed his record-setting performance against Oklahoma, which I
consider the best I've ever seen.
Enjoy.
WVU FOOTBALL IN 1895
Below is a link to an
article in the Charleston Gazette-Mail about what was probably the first
football game ever played in Charleston, WV. It was played
in 1895 against Washington and Lee University. West Virginia won the game, 28-6. Be sure to look at the
picture of the team. They are a young bunch and small by today's standards for
college football players.
CLICK HERE to read the article. Enjoy.
...FROM AN OLD GUY
2016 is about over and
it has been a good year for Roleta and me, and, I might add, a pretty good year
for local sports. I won't go over all that happened, but I do have a few
comments about a couple of recent events.
First, I was sorry to
see the WVU football season end with an ugly loss to Miami. It was,
without a doubt, the Mountaineer's worst game of the year. I have a few
thoughts about what caused the disaster.
First, the WVU
offensive line was unable to handle Miami's
defensive front. Skyler Howard is not good enough to complete passes, when he
is uncomfortable and he was under pressure the entire game. I've always
believed that the offensive linemen were the most important positions on any
football team. The entire offense centers around them. You can't run or pass
successfully without them doing a good job. WVU did neither well against the
Hurricanes.
I have never liked the
3-3-5 defensive alignment. College football is all about passing today. In
order to be a good pass defense, you must put pressure on the quarterback. If
you only rush three linemen, it is difficult to cause problems for a decent QB
with a decent O-line. The only way to bring pressure is to blitz. Do that and
it exposes your defensive backs, requiring single coverage. WVU got almost no
pressure without the blitz and Miami's
QB had all day to throw. He is too good to allow that and he proved it.
Those are my thoughts
on the game. Short and bitter. It was a good season, but the big bowl game loss
left a bad taste in my mouth, as I'm sure it did for most fans.
The men's basketball
team has started 12-1 and looks better than last year's team overall. We will
know a lot more about their skill level in the next couple of weeks, since the
first dozen games were mostly against cupcake opponents. The women are 13-0, so
it looks like Mike Carey has another fine team.
Remember, you are the
Newsletter. Without you, we have nothing to print, so please write to us about
any sports subject. We'd love to hear from you.
Bill (billmere@aol.com)
WI
1960 DECEASED CLASSMATES
Barrett, Robert
Bedell, Raleigh
Cochran, Dorothy Irene (Ryan)
Donaldson, Eugene Harold
Gary, Paul Douglas
Harris, Gary
Hartsock, Watson
Jenkins, James Stanley
Lasher, Delene L.(Jurick)
Lewark, Lynn Edward
Mills, Lawrence Mark
Pettrey, Mason Daniel
Smith, Carl Marshall Jr
Weiner, Gary Stephen
Thank you to Dave Kuhl for furnishing this record and sharing it with others via the WI NEWSLETTER
EDITOR’S
NOTE:
We are sorry to report this list of the deceased from the class of
1960
Do you or one of your classmates have a list of the deceased classmates from
your class? I would like to honor them by listing them here so others can take
a moment to remember them.
Send the list to Roleta1@aol.com
From: Bob Teter (WI
1960)
Actually one of the
very best! Many thanks go to you and your sister and others for getting this
out to us grads. A couple of notes: I am one of the left handed folks and
several interesting things about that for me. In learning cursive writing I
somehow managed to write sort of normally, in that I did not and still do not
curve my hand around to write upside down. Was able to avoid smearing
everything somehow as that was the big reason for the inverted grip thing, if I
remember correctly. I do everything very left handed, one exception being that
I could never kick a football with my left foot. Ain't that weird?
Ritzy Lunch was and
is a favorite for hot dogs whenever I get to town. Actually went to school with
some of the Selario boys. John was and is a friend, who we enjoy chatting with
when we are there. Love their 'dogs'! When my mother was living it was always a
tradition for us Teter kids to take her there. As you know another most
favorite would be Twin Oaks. I tried to indicate that the 'restaurant road
show' should go there but was not successful.
Do keep up the good
work, as I do enjoy reading even though often not in a timely fashion.
Merry Christmas to you and Bill.
From: Arreta Radcliffe
Jaranko (WI 1940)
I just happened to think of something that made us laugh one time
when my brother Carris (WI 1942) came home on leave from the military. He had
enlisted in the Air Force right after his 18th birthday and the United States
was deep into WWII. When the war was over, he went to WVU and was enrolled when
the Korean conflict occurred. He was called out of the Reserves and was again
flying planes against an enemy. This time he decided to stay in the military
and make it his career. Skip a few years and I was working in Greece while he
was stationed in Turkey. He flew a circuit that included Athens so we would get
together for dinner every time he landed there. It was wonderful to be with him
so often because the military can keep you away from home a lot! He had been
away from the United States for a long while when he got a month's leave. He
was asking us at home what was new and what had been going on, etc. My brother
Darrell (WI 1944) said, “You should know we now have electric
toothbrushes". Carris looked up at him and said" Now you don't expect
me to believe that! I haven't been gone that long!" and we all assured him
it was true. He still thought we were kidding until one of us brought a
toothbrush and showed him it was powered with batteries. We got a big laugh out
of his amazement. Lots of things can happen when you are far from home. Carris
was going to be stationed in the United States so he decided to buy a car. When
he bought it, he told the salesman, "You will have to teach me to drive
it. I can fly a plane, but I can't drive a car"...Wow. Think about it,
when did he ever have a chance to either own a car or learn to drive one? I
think of these little things that WI graduates have endured. One of these days
who is going to tell the next generation?
From: Sally Anne Pulice (WI 1969)
Roleta, a zillion thanks for all you do for so many of us. Every
month I eagerly await the arrival of the newsletter to my inbox!
From: Sandy
Zickefoose Lindke (WI 1956)
The lacey collars
that went in the neckline of sweaters were called a dickie or dicky. My mother
pegged many pairs of pants for the Hartland boys. She also made them shirts
that buttoned at the shoulder. Ferne Zickefoose was a wonderful seamstress.
Many will remember her working at Webb’s Confectionary at the corner of
Traction and Magnolia Ave. The chili dogs from that place were great.
I would like to
thank Augie for the video, A Drive Through Clarksburg.
lease keep up your
wonderful work for those of us who do read and enjoy the newsletter. I was very
much saddened to see the long list of WI 1956 classmates who had past away.
From: Sara Stephenson
Laber (WI 1955)
Do you remember
classmates wearing little gold safety pins? I don't remember the reason.
However, Mr Cubbins put a stop to it--thinking it was a cult or something bad.
I also remember wearing velvet ribbon around my neck. I had all colors of
ribbons and I think I usually wore a decorative pin on it. We called the gold
safety plans--wing dings or something like that.
Kindergarten teacher Helen Hulick who was a
witness to a burglary, was given a five day sentence and sent to jail for
contempt only for wearing pants to court to give her testimony. Los Angeles 1938
From: Roleta1@aol.com
I remember straight
tight skirts that hit well below the knee. Now they call them pencil skirts. We
wore a wide belt and white long sleeve blouse with the sleeve rolled up. Or a
pull over sweater with a cardigan sweater over it (known as a sweater set)
Shoes were a flat black slipper type shoe and it might have been called “Mary
Janes”? Anyone remember? We also wore black flat slip on shoes with a T strap
in the front.
Girls wore pull on
sweaters with a string of pearls or the little white collar trimmed in lace as
Mary Sue described. Hair was usually shoulder length with curls lying on the
shoulders. My hair is very thick and very straight so I was seldom happy with
the way my hair looked. I nearly always had a permanent I often wore my hair
pulled back and up into a pony tail with a scarf the size of a man’s handkerchief
tied around the wrap that held the pony tail. Oh and we often wore bands which
were not straight across the forehead but sort of cut for on the side.
We were not allowed
to wear slacks to school but toreador pants were popular to wear when not in
school. These were pants that were fitted and hit the ankle at the bottom and
were slim cut. Think of Sandy Dee in a movie with those little black pants,
that was what we wore. The top was either a man’s white shirt or a short little
top that hit just below the waist.
Do you remember it
the way Mary Sue and I remember?
Write and tell me
any fads you remember.
Here are some
suggestions that may cause you to remember and write:
How did you dry
your hair?
How did you curl
your hair?
Did you wear mascara?
What did you do to apply it?
Did you wear a
girdle or a garter belt?
Did you wear tennis
shoes to high school?
Did you wear slacks
to high school?
Did you wear your
boy friend’s ring? How did you wear it?
These are only suggestions;
please send me any you remember.
Did you wear jeans
to school? If not, what type of slacks did you wear?
What kinds of shoes
did most guys wear to school?
Did you wear button
up shirts or pull over T shirts?
Did you wear pull
over sweaters? Were they V Neck sweaters or round neck sweaters?
Were there any
regulations or rules about what you could or could not wear to school?
Could you leave
your shirt tail out or did it have to be tucked in?
Did you roll your
pants legs up? Was this a style or did you do this because the pant legs were
too long for you?
Did you wear a key
chain hanging from your belt?
Did you wear your girlfriend’s
class ring around your neck or on your pinky finger?
Did you wear a duck
tail cut, a crew cut, a flat top or a Princeton style which was parted and
combed over to the side?
The above list is
just a few things to stoke the fire in the memory part of your brain. Did I
just dust off some cobwebs in your brain? Now put your memories in a letter and
send them to me.
Anti Mini-skirt Sentiment in New York 1966
From: Sally Anne Pulice (WI 1969)
There was no Kindergarten program at Alta Vista during the 1956-57
school year, so my parents sent me to a private Kindergarten program. Did
anyone else have this experience? I think my teacher's name was Mrs. Ruth Bent.
I remember she picked up all the children in my afternoon class in a large
station wagon that had wooden side panels. We went to what, I think, was her
home for Kindergarten. My favorite part was singing songs and finger painting.
Mrs. Bent drove all the children home when Kindergarten was over.
EDITOR’S
NOTE: PLEASE WRITE ABOUT THIS
Did you attend Kindergarten? Where was your
school? What was your teacher’s name? At what age did you start? Do you know
what year Harrison County offered Kindergarten in the schools?
Write anything
you remember about Kindergarten Remember to sign your name, school and year you
did or would have graduated.
Write to Roleta1@aol.com
OMISSIONS:
The addresses below have bounced back. I am removing these names
from our files unless I am notified otherwise.
Thank you Roleta1@aol.com
lulunboro@comcast.net WI 1958
Carol Jones Cassidy (WI 1952) mommocas@atc-pc.com
Diana Cork Sullivan (WI 1952) gdsullivan12@hotmail.com
jonesappr@windstream.net
mtnmama75@netscape.com
griffinde56@yahoo.com
Jean Cotton Tisdall (Victory 1958) tisdalldj@msn.com
Eugene Jaumont (WI 1954) victoryhi54@aol.com
CORRECTIONS:
Below is a correction of the spelling
of a Maiden Name
Virginia Lee Michie “Pep” Culpepper (WI 1960)
culpep@earthlink.net
CHANGES:
Augie Malfregeot (WI
1955) ad.malf38@comcast.net
Pictured above are:
Fred Dunham on the left and Mike Snyder on the right
FAREWELL OLD PAL
By Mike Snyder (WI 1957)
Fred Dunham's death on Dec 13th
hit me like a ton of bricks. Fred was my
closest friend in high school. He was 11
days older than me and our lives intertwined in so many ways. We both went to
Morgan School and Central together, but it was really at WI that we became best
buddies. Fred had a '39 Chevrolet he
called the Beater. How many times he
chauffeured not only me but so many of our friends would be hard to count up. He taught me how to drive in the Beater and I
passed my driver's test in that trusty set of wheels.
We would tool around town in that unit and
Willow Beach was a weekend destination where we rocked the night away. It took us on our first outings for trout in
the mountains and on hunting excursions and countless cruises elsewhere. Fred
and I dated cousins at WI. We roomed together in a widow's attic as WVU
freshmen and joined the same fraternity. The gregarious Fred took to life in
the Phi Sig house with gusto and as in his WI days, was a favorite of everyone.
He had so many pluses in his jovial, friendly, sincere and honest demeanor that
he really was in a class by himself. Our classmate Jim Brown and I both agree
that Fred was a true prince. To know him was to love him. He truly would do
anything for his friends.
We both had to leave WVU for a time because
our grades had really slipped… So both of us joined the Marine Corps Reserve in
1961. We were at Parris Island together in the same recruit platoon. The Corps
really shaped us up because both of us went back to Morgantown and buckled down
and earned our degrees. Fred became a stock broker in Parkersburg and a very
successful one, later moving to Wheeling where he flourished in that business. My
first job was also in Parkersburg with an advertising agency. Fred and I had
many good times together when we lived there.
He was a guy who was always happy. He could
have fallen in an outhouse and come out smelling like a rose with a big grin on
his face. Fred loved life. He retired to The Villages in Florida with wife
Joann and became a serious golfer and for many years was also a devoted
fisherman. We attended the WI reunion two years ago and we rode up to it in
Fred's burgundy Mercedes convertible sports car (beautiful, but not as
venerable as the Beater.)
Ever since Fred was a kid working in George
Kovach's filling station in Stealey, he loved a good chew of tobacco. It didn't
matter how high a social circle he was in, he still could enjoy a chew without
anyone knowing it. His good will and cheerfulness as a boy and a man set an
example to all who knew him. It was such a blessing having him in our lives. And
yes, Fred, you were a better Marine than I was. Semper Fi.
RUTH ELLEN WALSH
Ruth Ellen Walsh,
91, formerly of Spelter, passed away on Thursday, December 8, 2016.
She was born in
Clarksburg on September 25, 1925, a daughter of the late Charles Patrick and
Mary Virginia Mulvaney Callahan.
She was preceded in
death by her husband of 50 years, John Thomas Walsh, Sr., whom she married on
October 21, 1946, and who preceded her in death on November 21, 1996.
Surviving are four
sons, John “Tom” (Deb) Walsh, Jr; Richard (Deb) Walsh; Charles (Anna) Walsh and Martin (Joan)
Walsh; three daughters, Sarah (George)Anagnos; Patricia and Marianne
Strugarek and her husband Bill of Spelter; 15 grandchildren; 21
great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews; and one sister-in-law,
Catherine Reeves and her husband William.
She was the last
surviving member of her immediate family, having also been preceded in death by
one son, James Michael Walsh; one grandson, Martin Joseph Walsh; four brothers,
James Callahan, twin brothers, Hurbert and Charles Callahan, and Robert
Callahan; and two sisters, Marie Zuchowski and Genevieve Cockrell.
Mrs. Walsh was a
graduate of St. Mary’s High School in Clarksburg, and was a telephone operator
with C&P Telephone and part-time receptionist for H&R Block. She was a
member of St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Shinnston and a member of the former
Holy Family Catholic Church in Spelter, where she was a member of the Holy
Family Altar Society and former president. Ruth was also a member of the
Harrison County Senior Citizens Spelter Satellit
WILLIAM G. HICKMAN
William G. Hickman,
73, of Clarksburg, WV, passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 27, 2016, at
the United Hospital Center in Bridgeport.
He was born in
Clarksburg, WV, on November 27, 1943, a son of the late John Allen and Bina
Florence Bennett Hickman
He is survived by
his wife of 38 years, Catherine Marie Belcastro Hickman, whom he married on
June 24, 1978.
He is also survived
by a brother, Paul Eugene Hickman; a sister, Shirley Messineo; a
brother-in-law, Patrick Belcastro (Dina); and several nieces and nephews.
In addition to his
parents, he was preceded in death by two brothers, John and Charles Hickman;
two sisters, Betty Trader and Edna Carpenter; and two brothers-in-law, George
Carpenter and Tony Messineo.
Mr. Hickman was a
graduate of Victory High School and Salem College. He taught Industrial Arts at
Broadway Junior High and South Harrison High School, and also served as
assistant football coach at Broadway Junior High.
He was an avid fan
of WVU Football and Pittsburgh Pirates Baseball.
Mr. Hickman was a
member of St. James Catholic Church, Clarksburg.
JUDY M.
NICHOLSON
Judy M. Nicholson,
age 70, of Clarksburg, departed this life suddenly Tuesday, December 13, 2016,
at her residence.
She was born
October 5, 1946, in Smithfield, WV, a daughter of the late Winfield Conoway
Cain Sr. and Helen Virginia Wright Cain.
Her husband,
Richard L. Nicholson, preceded her in death November 9, 2013.
Surviving are one
daughter, Kathy Currey and her husband Edward of Clarksburg; one son, John
Christopher Nicholson of Clarksburg; 11 grandchildren and three
great-grandchildren; two sisters, Linda A.E. Bowen of Stonewood, and Rosemary
V. Second and her husband James of Sun Valley; two half brothers, Winfield C.
Cain Jr. of Clarksburg and David E. Cain of Clarksburg; along with several
nieces and nephews.
In addition to her
parents and her husband, she was preceded in death by one granddaughter and one
great-grandchild.
Judy was a graduate
of Washington Irving High School. She was retired from the West Virginia
Department of Health and Human Resources as an Administrative Assistant with
over 35 years of service. She was a member of the E.C. Church at Oakmound and
loved spending time with her family, shopping and crocheting.
CATHERINE
LOUISE MERRYMAN
Catherine Louise
Merryman, 89, of Clarksburg, WV, passed away on Wednesday, November 23, 2016,
at the United Hospital Center in Bridgeport, WV.
She was born on
December 13, 1926, at Clarksburg, a daughter of the late Andrew J. and Hessie
(Higgins) Griffith.
Catherine was
preceded in death by her husband of 65 years, Robert L. Merryman on May 11,
2013.
Catherine is
survived by one son, Gary E. Merryman and wife Tonja of Clarksburg; two grandsons:
Robert Stephen Merryman of FL, and Brad Lee Merryman of Clarksburg; a
sister-in-law, Barbara Griffith of Clarksburg, and a brother-in-law, Joseph
Davis of Erie, PA. Also surviving are numerous nieces and nephews.
In addition to her
parents and husband, Catherine was preceded in death by one son, Stephen E.
Merryman, and seven siblings: brothers Roy, Lloyd, Ralph, Howard, and Truman
Griffith and sisters Mary Curtis and Mildred Davis.
Catherine was a
graduate of WI and a member of the Broad Oaks United Methodist Church. She
enjoyed staying active with her late husband, they especially enjoyed walking
at the mall. Catherine enjoyed working puzzles in her free time as well. She
loved being around her family and her grand-dog, “Lacy.
JOHN SALVATORE ARCO
John Salvatore
Arco, age 35, of Clarksburg, passed away on Tuesday, November 22, 2016, at his
residence.
He was born on
February 4, 1981, to John and Carla (Long) Arco.
He was preceded in
death by his paternal grandmother, Rose Arco, and his maternal grandfather, V.
Gene Long.
In addition to his
parents, he is survived by one brother, Jimmy Arco; one sister, Maria Arco; his
nephew and niece, Isiaha and Ashirah; paternal grandfather, Albert “Engine”
Arco; maternal grandmother, Wanda Long; and his aunts and uncles, Becky (Long)
and Jerry Davis, and David and Maxine Long.
He is also survived
by his partner, Toby Riffle, and best friend, Cindy Iquinto, as well as many
aunts, uncles and cousins.
John Sal attended
St. Mary’s Grade School and Notre Dame High School, where he graduated
Co-Valedictorian of his class. He served as Student Body President and was an
active member of many clubs and organizations throughout high school. He
graduated from West Virginia University with a degree in Political Science.
After working for several years for the U.S. Department of Agriculture, he
attended and graduated from Charlotte School of Law. He was currently working
as an Abstractor and enjoyed his work in the oil and gas business.
DAVID DREW MILLER
David Drew Miller, 62, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, passed away
peacefully on Saturday November 26, 2016, at his home in Midlothian, Virginia
after a short but hard-fought battle with Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. His memorial
service was held in VA on Dec. 1, 2016.
David is preceded in death by his father, Marvin Miller. He is
survived by his daughters, Megan and Leah (Anne), his partner of many years,
Rebecca, his mother, Betty, his brother, Scott and his children, Sarah and
Benjamin, his sister, Stephanie (David) and their children Joshua and Jacob,
his most beloved granddaughter, Thando Amana, as well as many more loving
family members and dear friends.
David was born on August 1, 1954, in Clarksburg, and remained in
West Virginia for most of his short life. He graduated from Washington Irving
High School in 1972 and then from West Virginia University in 1976 with a
degree in finance. David spent his life loving sports of every kind, instilling
that love in his daughters and watching them with endless pride, honoring his
Jewish heritage and faith, and simply treasuring his granddaughter and being
her Zayde. David fought each day to find beauty around him in the world.
JOHN B. TONKIN
John B. Tonkin, Jr., 67, of Horner, W.Va., September 6, 2016,
following a three-year battle with cancer. He was born on April 25, 1949, in
Clarksburg, W.Va., to John B. and Nancy Sturtevant Tonkin.
He attended Mercersburg Academy and graduated from Washington
Irving High School. After he graduated from West Virginia Wesleyan College, he
made Lewis County his home. During his youth, John was an active Boy Scout and
attended the National Boy Scout Jamboree in 1964 at Valley Forge, Pa. He was a
camp counselor and long time supporter of Camp Mahonegan in Upshur County while
also serving as a scout leader in several Clarksburg troops. John had a passion
for muscle cars and was an organizer and active member of the Summer Knights
Car Club. He was well known across the state for his collection of muscle cars,
which he showed for many years. He worked for Consolidated Natural Gas Company
and other gas companies as an independent oil and gas landman for all of his
adult life.
He was preceded in death by his parents, John B. and Nancy S.
Tonkin; his grandparents, Nancy Francis Shuttlesworth Sturtevant and Arlington
Concord Sturtevant and Loring Lombard Tonkin and Norma Smith Tonkin.
John was married to Brenda Romeo and was a father to one son, John
Stuart Tonkin, "Jeb" and his wife, Abigail. He is also survived by
brother, Loring L. "Tim" Tonkin and wife, Veronica; sister, Nancy S.
Tonkin and friend, Tommy Mullins; niece, Holly Tonkin; and nephew, Luke Tonkin.
John attended the New Life Southern Baptist Church in Horner.
JOSEPH TARANTINO
Joseph Tarantino, 97 December 4, 2016 passed at his home with his
family by his side.
Born on February 12, 1919 in Clarksburg, the son of the late James
Vincenzio and Mary Ulimo Tarantino, Joseph was the last surviving member of his
immediate family.
Mr. Tarantino is survived by his wife of 70 years, Nola Oliverio
Tarantino. They were married June 15, 1946 by the Rev. John O’Reilly at St.
John’s Roman Catholic Church in Clarksburg. He is also survived by his six
children: Mary Jo (Frank) Roman, Victoria Tarantino, Monica (Richard) Adams,
Nola (James) Gaston, Joseph James (Jill) Tarantino and Rebecca (David)
D’Annunzio. He is also survived by his grandchildren and great grandchildren.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his
sisters Rosario Tarantino Angotti and Rose Tarantino Giacobino and his brothers
Tony Tarantino and John Tarantino.
During his senior year in high school, Joseph was employed at the
Adamston Flat Glass Division of Fourco Glass Co. He worked at night and went to
school during the day.
He joined the Marine Corps in 1941 and after leaving Paris Island,
Joseph went to San Diego and then on to American Samoa for training. He joined
the 1st Marine Division in Australia. The division served in New Guinea, Cape
Gloucester, Peleliu and Okinawa. In 1945, Joseph returned to the states and
continued to work at the Adamston Flat Glass Company and retired with 41years
of service.
Mr. Tarantino was a lifelong member of the Immaculate Conception
Catholic Church. He was the last surviving charter member of the Adamston Lions
Club and served as president twice during his 59 years of membership. He
received the highest honor as a Lion member, the Leonard Jarrett Award for
service. He was also a lifetime member of the VFW. He sold tickets for football
and basketball games at Liberty High School for 40 years. Mr. Tarantino also
served as an election poll worker for 15 years and head commissioner for the
precinct for 8 years.
Joseph and his brother John owned Tarantinos’ Dairy King for 40
years and created the original recipe for raspberry ice cream. They also owned
a Laundromat and dry cleaners.
As members of WVU Mountaineer Athletic Club, he and his wife had
WVU football season tickets for a period of 45 years.
HOWARD DANA MITCHELL
“DANA”
Howard “Dana” Mitchell, 68, passed away peacefully Nov 26, 2016,
at Bay Pines, VA hospital with his two children by his side. There will be an
upcoming memorial service at the VA cemetery in his honor.
He was a graduate of WI.
He passed away at the hospital of terminal
pancreatic cancer. He also suffered severe COPD and emphysema, among other
health issues.
LIZABETH ANN BUCKLEW
Lizabeth “Libby” Ann Bucklew, 67, of
Morgantown, passed away March 13, 2016 at Allegheny General Hospital of
Pittsburgh, PA.
Libby was born in Clarksburg on May 25, 1948, the daughter
of the late Richard Liskey and the late Dorothy (Hindman) Liskey.
She was Episcopalian by faith and was a member of Christ
Episcopal Church in Clarksburg. She was a member of the Junior Women’s Club,
former treasurer of her homeowners association, and was an avid reader.
She is survived by her husband, Jay Mason Bucklew, III;
children, Jay Bucklew IV and Beth Bucklew, both of Morgantown; and sister in
law, Judith Stuart.
In addition to her parents, she is also preceded in death by
her mother and father in law, Jay Mason Bucklew, Jr. and Jeanne S. Bucklew.
JOSEPH ANTHONY MANCINA
Joseph Anthony Mancina, 83, August 10, 2016 in the United Hospital
Center following a brief illness. He was born in Clarksburg on March 10, 1933,
a son of the late John and Besse Scott Mancina.
He is survived by his wife, Catherine Joan Tiano Mancina, whom he
married on January 29, 1956. They were blessed with 60 beautiful years
together.
Also surviving are five daughters, Betty Mancina Andrews and her
husband Brad of Raleigh, NC and their children, Catherine Andrews Wellington
and her husband Greg and Morgan Andrews Berliner and her husband Max; Barbara
Mancina Batchelor and her husband Wayne of Chesapeake, VA and their son, Will
Batchelor; Lisa Mancina Spenia and her husband Sam of Carmel, IN and their
children, Joseph Spenia, Maggie Spenia Hughes (Matt), and Sophie Spenia; Mary
Mancina Sauter and her husband Dan of Huntsville, AL and their children,
Daniel, Michael, Matthew and Jack; Cathy Mancina Smith and her husband, John of
Overland Park, KS and their children, Sophia and Grace; and one great grandson,
Gregory Scott Wellington, III. He is also survived by two sisters, Betty Banko
(Andrew), Delana Snyder (Maurice); and two brothers-in-law, Al Casalinuova and
George Diaz. He was also preceded in death by two sisters, Daisy Diaz and Anna
Louise Casalinuova.
Joe was a 1951 graduate of Victory High School, where he excelled
in sports, a graduate of West Virginia University where he was a member of the
Alpha Phi Delta Fraternity, and was also a United States Army Veteran. He was
employed by the WV State Tax Department as an auditor for 33 years. He was
devout Catholic and a lifelong member of St. James Catholic Church, the
Columbian Club, Sons of Italy and the Knights of Columbus.
BEVERLY JO JOHNSTON
Beverly Jo Johnston, 60, of Clarksburg, passed away Thursday,
December 22, 2016 at Ruby Memorial Hospital.
She was born September 13, 1956, in Clarksburg, WV, daughter of
Robert W. Small and the late Evelyn J. Jamison Small.
Beverly is survived by one daughter, Jennifer Benedum (Chris)
Parr; one son, Lucas Small-(Broke Wickenhofer) Johnston; two grandchildren,
Anastasia Benedum and Evan Parr; one brother, Terry (Linda) Small; a special niece, Leigh (Taylor)
McNabb, husband; a nephew, Stephen (Julie)
Small, In addition to her mother, Beverly was preceded in death by a brother,
Gary Small.
Beverly graduated from R.W. and attended Fairmont State University
and Pierpont Community and Technical College.
She was an administrative assistant for Fairmont State University.
ANNE (ANOULA) MILLER GLOVER
Ann Miller Glover, 73, of Clarksburg, WV, passed away on
Tuesday, December 27, 2016, at her residence surrounded by her loving family
ending her battle with ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis) also known as Lou
Gehrig’s Disease.
JERRY WARNE
Jerry Alan Warne, 75, of Clarksburg, passed away on
Thursday, December 29, 2016, in the United Hospital Center following an
extended illness. He was born in Clarksburg on March 21, 1941, a son of the
late Joseph P. and Hattie Snodgrass Warne.
He is survived by his wife, Carolyn Sue Pinella
Warne, whom he married September 22, 1962.
Also surviving are one son, Michael J. Warne of
Clarksburg; three grandsons, Brayden Michael Warne, Evan Joseph Warne and
Keygan Stephen Warne; one sister-in-law, Rosemary Warne of Bridgeport; three
nephews, Terry, Scott and Andrew Warne; one niece, Katie Warne; and cousin,
Patricia Warne Vaughan and her husband Arvin of Georgia. He also leaves behind
his faithful companion, his dog “Bear”.
He was also preceded in death by one son, Stephen
Alan Warne; and his twin brother, Terry L. Warne.
Mr. Warne was a 1959 graduate of Washington Irving
High School and was a United States Marine Corps Reserve Veteran having served
from 1960 – 1968 with the Reserve Unit out of Garden City Long Island New York.
Jerry was a member of the Immaculate Conception
Catholic Church. Prior to converting to Catholicism, he was a member of
Clarksburg Lodge #155 A.F. & A.M. and had served as a past Master of the
Lodge.
Jerry had a special gift for woodworking. He worked
with all woods, but his favorite was wormy chestnut, having displayed his
furniture at Tamarac and other shows throughout many states. He and his son
Michael owned the small store, “Touch of Country”, in Bridgeport and Nutter
Fort. He loved spending winter months in Florida to fish, and he loved sports,
especially the WVU Mountaineers. A quiet gentle man, yet strong, supportive and
generous, Jerry always made time for his two sons. He took pride in spending
time with his three grandsons, and was a loving husband, father and
grandfather.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on
Tuesday, January 3, 2017 at 10:00 am at the Immaculate Conception Catholic
Church with Reverend Father Casey Mahone as Celebrant. Entombment will be in
the Holy Cross Mausoleum.
