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MEETING The Campus Cub MEETING SAT., DEC. 7, 2019 SAT., DEC. 7, 2019 10:00 a.m. - HUB Building 10:00 a.m. - HUB Building PUBLISHED FOUR TIMES A YEAR BY THE ALUMNI ASSOCIATION OF SAN JACINTO HIGH SCHOOL - 1926 - 1971 VOLUME XXXVIII HOUSTON, TEXAS DECEMBER 2019 NUMBER FOUR Come & Join Us in Holiday Cheer! President's Corner The State of the San Jacinto Alumni Association Greetings! tance to digital integration into their lives. We un- Thank you, one and all! derstand! All things considered, Alan Finger, Treasurer much has occurred since In rough numbers, we presently have 3,000 “surviv- Class of 1954 our last communication ing” Golden Bears who are considered reachable ei- from the San Jacinto ther by “snail mail” or e-mail. Since we no longer Not that long ago, some- Alumni Association. As have new San Jacinto graduates and our chances for President, I thought it was adding future San Jacinto students is diminishing one reminded me that the appropriate to quickly ad- by the hour, we know there will probably come a two most appreciated, but dress some of the realities time when the Campus Cub will quietly “go away”. least-used words in the Eng- we are all facing both with Between Father Time and the Grim Reaper, we are lish language are: respect to the SJAA and shrinking – as a group – by about 400 Golden Bears Thank you! the Campus Cub. annually. Do the math! The last graduate of San The passing of Jay Lefkowitz Jacinto High School walked the stage in 1971. That’s not that many weeks ago First, a little history: 58 years ago! triggered an unanticipated burst of activity that, apparently, resonated with a sizable number of In 1954, for openers, the USPS offered a “penny post Let me also tell you we want you to continue to sub- loyal, interested San Jacinto High School gradu- card” for a penny. Today, a First Class stamp costs mit stories, but we urge you to do your very best to ates who want both the San Jacinto Alumni Asso- $.50. keep your submissions both short and memorable. ciation and the Campus Cub to continue into the Think of 500-words as the “top” end. Photos with foreseeable future. In 1954, a daily edition of The Houston Chronicle name-and-class cutline will be welcomed. Within days, the checks and personal notes and cost 15 cents. Today, it will set you back $1.00. At letters began arriving. As the Board of Directors least. And you’ll shell out $.95 daily for an online, It also makes sense for us to focus on naming a single convened to consider the future, we were all grati- much shorter edition. person to represent each class. fied to see such wonderful support. Knowing what we could do and how we can best do it was an A gallon of gasoline at the local Humble Oil & Refin- Now that we’ve covered the Campus Cub situation, exercise that excited all of us as we moved ahead. ing Co. station cost $.29. Today, your friendly Ex- let’s next focus on the future. I wish we had the space to share the comments of- xon station nails you for $2.26 per gallon. Going up fered by those who took the time to reach out to and rarely going down. And they certainly no longer The next quarterly meeting of the San Jacinto High us, but a simply listing of those who have contrib- clean your windshield! School Alumni Association will be held at 10:00am uted \"so far! \"is as far as we can go at this juncture on Saturday, December 7th in the hallway outside Let’s not get into the cost of printing “then” versus the auditorium. We will have refreshments and col- · Sandra Shainock Adair “now”. lect money for the luncheon. About 10:30am, we will move to the Auditorium to recognize recipients · Don Barton, '55 Here’s where I am going with this: of our $600 Scholarship Program, hear Jim Connors accompany an old “silent movie” with · Janice Massengill Barton, '61 What was once perceived as a periodical “newslet- that old Wurlitzer Theater Organ and, perhaps, sing ter” for San Jacinto graduates is not, in actuality, a some holiday songs. A meeting will follow the mu- · Caren Bean, '44 “newsletter”, but a “newspaper”. With a press run of sic. After the meeting, we will go to Room 100 in the slightly less than 3,000, the cost of printing our little Hub Building for lunch. · Ginger Nelson Renfrow Blanton “newspaper” is brutal! There is also the cost in- volved with the “make up” of the paper plus the mail Lenox BBQ will be catering the meal and the price · Carolyn \"Connie\" Burke service plus the cost of printing and, at the very end, will be $16 per person. The meal will feature the cost of postage. It doesn’t take a CPA to show you Lenox’s fabulous brisket, chicken, sausage, · Betty Jo (Short) Burnham, '44 how quickly an organization can run out of money. beans, potato salad, bread, pickles, tea and cob- bler for dessert. · Dorothy Chesser, '56 And when was the last time you heard another prominent newspaper was “calling it quits” and “go- To make your reservation, either call me – Bob Dav- · Jeanne Emden Cohen ing digital? enport – at 281-733-4392 or e-mail your reservation to [email protected]. If you make a reserva- · Edward Earp, '43 Here’s the punchline: tion, you can pay at the door with a check payable to San Jacinto High School Alumni Association. · Jerry Evans As we assessed the expenses of the “past” weighed Feel free to mail your check to: Bob Davenport, against the “realities” of the various options, here’s 2440 North Blvd., Apt. 3101, Houston, TX 77098. · Arnold Farber, '58 where we landed: But, please. Let us know if you are coming. We need to know how many to feed! Our deadline · Clark F. Flato, '64 We want to have four “editions” of the Campus Cub (was) November 20, so let us know as quickly as each year. Typically, each edition runs 24 pages, so you can. See FINGER, page 2 simply reducing the content by four pages to 20 pages, total, doesn’t save that much. And 20 pages You may park in the garage (directly east of the will be the new target. At present, our December is- school building) above the first floor or in the park- sue will be heading for the press and you should note ing lot directly behind the building. we only had sufficient stories to warrant no more than a 12-page edition. We used every story that Jay Overlooking the fact that this is also “Pearl Harbor Lefkowitz had accumulated and filed prior to his de- Day”, let’s all think of this as a positive way to “kick mise. off’ the holiday season. Rest assured we will offer up an interesting program that includes some great en- We need new stories immediately! But, you should tertainment and a delicious luncheon. regard January 31 as the deadline for our second edition, which will carry an “out date” of March 1. One more comment: On behalf of one and all, Inside this issue of The Cub thanks to the dozens of you who whipped out your The present page size is 11” x 17” and there may come checkbooks and made contributions that would al- a time when we will find it necessary to go even low us to move forward at an affordable rate. How smaller, but for now, here’s our plan. gratifying to know we have San Jacinto Golden Bear graduates now living into their third and fourth life- In the year ahead, we envision producing three edi- time subscriptions to the Campus Cub! Thanks to all tions in our traditional format and the fourth will be of you, we survived! the “first step” into the digital world. Do not panic. If you do not want to receive your Campus Cub on- Please know I am greatly assisted by an enthusiastic Feature Page line, we will simply print it out and mail it to you. band of San Jac grad supporters who have pitched in to keep our enterprise alive. Humor Us and More . . . . . . . . . 4 The second year, we will adjust to two print and two 50th Reunion . . . . . . . . . . . 7-8 digital editions. I will close by telling you I have very positive Letters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 thoughts about our prospects for a successful fu- In Loving Memory of . . . . . . . 10-11 The third year, as you have already realized, there ture. I feel honored to represent each and every one will be one print and three digital. of you Golden Bears! And by the fourth year, we will have progressed to Sincerely, the point where those “remaining” San Jac grads will have “eased” into the digital world and continue Bob Davenport, President u to have the option of receiving their Campus Cub ei- ther via mail or by e-mail. Here’s one more fact I ask each of you to consider. You must realize the “senior Golden Bears” are al- most, to a man/woman, opposed to doing things “online”. The older they are, the deeper the resis-

THE CAMPUS CUB / DECEMBER 2019 / PAGE 2 the tube” when Jay left us. Over the past few weeks, I have attempted to resurrect those sub- missions and you will find them included in the December edition of the Campus Cub. So, where do we go from here? Basically, the next three editions of the Cub will be print and not digital. We will publish 20 pages in each of the three upcoming issues. The December issue is – simply stated – limited to 12 pages. We simply didn’t have enough stories in hand to fill the targeted space. We are making “chicken salad” with, hypothetically, “chicken feathers”. The Campus Cub Flaps? Check. I have strongly recommended one person from each graduating class accept the responsibility for Successor To Landing Gear? Check. representing each San Jac class. It will be so much The Forum u The San Jacinto Star u The Reporter easier to communicate if we can shorten the chain By Gary Rollins of communication. Publisher Emeritus Dr. Elmer C. Gates Editor Editor, 1983 William David Bell True confession. I would want you to know I am looking forward to receiving stories of “500 words or less” and I will Editor, 1984 Martha Tanner Scott I never met Jay Lefkowitz. In welcome photos IF they have both an identifying person, that is. We were “phone cutline and a Class number. Editor, 1985 Daniel C. Miller pals”. Editor, 1986-1993 Fred Glenn Fact is, although I have long I have no great desire to spend time retyping your been a quarterly contributor to stories, so please submit them online using Word, Editor, 1993-1995 DeWitt Wolfe the Campus Cub, it all began if at all possible. Otherwise, I get to retype them. when someone tagged me to submit “relevant” Editor, 1995 - 2010 Daniel C. Miller stories that might make my fellow Class of ’54 Our readers seem to share a “short attention pals/gals chuckle. span”, so try to limit yourself to 500 words. Editor, 2010 -2019 Jacob Lefkowitz Typically, I would receive a call from Jay Lefkowitz Editor, 2019 - Gary Rollins telling me he needed a 500-word story from me. Please remember each person has a name and a By 5pm. That day. San Jac class number. At the very least, label Columnists: those photos on the backside of the print. So much for advance planning, right? Maggie Moreno, ‘68 u Irv Berger, ‘68 u Marian Elgin Reunions are a big deal, so share news about up- Aitken '40 u John Breckenridge, ‘47 u Howard Bruce Well, nonetheless, I held the guy in high regard in- coming reunions. '68 u Diane Puckett Ethridge '58 u Allen Grant, ‘57 asmuch as he had been dancing this dance for u Louis Green, M. D ‘40 u Marvin Kaplan ‘48 u many, many years. He did a fine job, as well. Using that for openers, please be aware of the fact Rabbi Jimmy Kessler, ‘64 u Gary Rollins, ‘54 u Bob that the combined San Jacinto Classes of l951 Lowe ‘60 u Myra Hargrave McIllvain '56 u Claudia I truly enjoyed reading the quarterly editions and through l956 are moving ahead with plans for a Moursund ‘59 u Aaron Poscovsky '68 u Diane marveled at Lefkowitz’s skill as the Editor Person big, big multi-class reunion on Tuesday, April 18. Axelrad Manning ‘56 u of the Campus Cub and I found myself wondering Historians will recognize this as “close to San just how long this dance would last. Jacinto Day” – and how appropriate! – details are Staff: being finalized as this edition of the Campus Cub Not that many weeks ago, like you, I received is heading for the printer. Already known is the Circulation Manager: Jacob Lefkowitz, ‘45 word that Jay had departed this tortured planet site – the San Jacinto Gym and the time – 12 Noon and failed to nominate his best candidate for his – but the rest of the details are a “work in prog- Obituaries Editor Ray Kendrick, ‘55 replacement. ress” and will soon be shared. Basically, details about food, parking and other important details. THE CAMPUS CUB is the official publication of Alan Finger, an old friend and classmate from the Before you know it, there will be a committee ap- Class of ’54, rang me up and asked if I would agree pointed to thrash out the details! So, stay tuned. the San Jacinto High School Alumni Association. to assume responsibility for the job as Designated Editor during a time when the San Jacinto Our mailing address is P.O. Box. 31298, Houston, Alumni Association was considering if and how the Campus Cub might continue to exist or pass TX 77231. Issued quarterly: March, June, Septem- away silently. ber and December. Annual subscription is $25.00. Fortunately, a call for an infusion of cash paid off and it was determined there were sufficient dol- Lifetime Membership is $200.00. u lars on hand to continue the journey. June Levy, ‘53 is leading the charge on this effort and she has a wonderful way of assigning roles to FINGER, from page 1 So, I agreed to do it. be played. (I think she majored in Reunion Plan- ning at Rice.) She is ably assisted by her partner, · Robert L. Frnka, '52 This opens the opportunity to suggest you recall Fritz Holt, ’55. that scene in Airport, a film I feel pretty sure most · John K. Gresham of you readers both recall and enjoyed. Brother Tragically, one of the periodic stories that draws Finger laid out the length and depth of the problem the most attention is the revelation of the list of · Dorothy Hagen, '47 and suggested I might ultimately prove to be a part those who have passed away. We seek to share that of the solution and not, necessarily, the problem. news as expeditiously as possible with one and all. · Lewis Halphen After he had spelled out “the problem”, I re- Looking back, I have found most San Jacinto · James Hill, '54 sponded with “Surely, you jest.” graduates enjoy looking back and pondering “I wonder what ever happened to (fill in the blank)?” · Fritz Holt, '55 And he said, “Don’t call me Shirley!” As we all know, distinguished folk like Walter Cronkite and Dr. Denton Cooley are but two of our · F. King, '56 I felt like a passenger who was tagged by the stew- distinguished Golden Bear graduates. Accord- ardess, who informed me the Captain had sud- ingly, feel free to use that topic as your blueprint · Sharon Brogan LeBleu, '61 denly expired and wondered if I might be capable for telling us about yourself. Or, fill in the blanks of both flying and landing the plane, so to speak. on some classmate with whom you have remained · June Knolle Levy '53 Also, fuel (cash) was being consumed rapidly and in contact. Like what? Well, not that long ago, I a safe landing was needed to save one and all. learned the Indy 500 racer A. J. Foyt was reported · Eleanor Lewis Levy, '56 to have attended San Jacinto. I always thought he I think you can get the picture. Plopping down in attended Reagan High School, but I have been · Dane Lilty Lefkowitz’s pilot seat and successfully continuing wrong about as often as I have been right. the journey of the airship “Campus Cub” was · E. Gordon Logan quite a challenge! · Michael Longley, '59 Let’s all hope I know what I am doing. · Claudia Moursund, '59 So, I agreed to tackle the job at hand and we all be- So, there you have it. With your support and a gan the process of trying to figure out just where we continuing stream of interesting stories to share, · William Pegues wanted to go in the future and how much money we may keep the spirit of San Jacinto High School would ultimately be required to fund the effort. alive. If you are moved to chip in and offer up a · Connie Cohn Pollon few shekels to keep the Campus Cub alive, I know One more wrinkle. Although a rapid movement Alan Finger will welcome your contribution. · Lewis Pontikos, '59 to “digital” was the obvious pathway to keeping the Campus Cub alive, we all know the most se- · Norma (Alice King) Rogers nior graduates loath the idea of relying on the In closing, let me remind you to send your story computer. I am told some of our graduates still submissions to Gary Rollins at HCC Central Cam- · Mansel Rubenstein, '57 have rotary phones. And I don’t mean land lines. pus, Attn: San Jacinto Alumni, 1300 Holman, I mean handheld rotary cell phones! Houston, TX 77004. Or, inasmuch as the initial · Sol Schwarz posting of my e-mail was incorrect, please note you As I moved ahead, I realized we faced the daunt- can reach me online at [email protected]. If · Harvey Seline ing task of retrieving any/all stories that were “in you e-mail your stories to me, send them in Word so I will not have to retype them! My cell phone is · Sandra Waldman Simon, '61 832-507-0555, so call me anytime. · Shirley Toomim, '45 · Dick Viebig, '58 Allow me to focus on deadlines. Our second issue of this year’s Campus Cub will carry an outdate of · Robert Wheeler March 1. Thus, the deadline for closing/submis- sion of any/all stories will be February 1! Mark · Alan Z??? (You know who you are!) your calendar! Start writing as soon as possible and remember, we’d rather have “too many” than In closing, we all found it incredible remarkable “not enough”. that so many of our subscribers are in their \"third or fourth lifetime\"! Thanks, again, for digging deep! u Many thanks! u

THE CAMPUS CUB / DECEMBER 2019 / PAGE 3 “A Great Teacher Can him once more say that I sounded too Southern Also, Mr. James Pitts made a huge impact on me and this would work against me in winning de- by teaching the importance of correct spelling and Change a Student’s bates. He wanted me to speak standard English. I grammar. He would take a letter grade off for did eventually succeed before graduating in 1965. each misspelled word and gave an automatic “F” Life.” for a comma fault. I’m not perfect at either, but But more than that, by the time I moved to Mon- have always tried and have passed that advice to By Maggie (Martinez) Moreno treal, Canada, my Southern drawl was so muted my kids. It’s another habit that encourages re- Class of 1966 that the French Canadians had trouble believing spect. that I was from the United States. It was very easy I asked Golden Bear classmates “What is the for me to blend in with the French Canadian cul- u ture. From my debate coach’s advice, I learned best advice a teacher or coach gave you in high that we are often judged by how we sound and Art Chapa, Class of 1966 school?” other factors rather than by the pure content of our messages, and different cultures will judge I have to thank Ms Sondra Norman for her DUE Below are some of the answers I received. It’s the same message in different ways. This aware- DILIGENCE in keeping track of the credits each been over 50 years since we were in high school. ness has helped me to think through strategies for student needed for graduation. I was her “runner Many of San Jac teachers mentioned may have al- effective communication with a variety of groups. “ during my time working in the Counselor’s Of- ready passed. But they all left quite an impression It’s actually a result of the advice combined with fice. When she informed me that I was going to be on their students. my life experiences. 1/2 credit short and would probably not graduate in June, she advised that I take a night class at San u The debate coach’s advice has a parallel with the Jac to meet graduation credits. She suggested I lesson from my classmate’s interpretation of the take a speech class. I did and it was the best class Mary (Rangel Samudio), Class of 1966 book of Job compared to my own, namely that my that most prepared me to be able to give First Aid own perspective may not be shared by my friends, classes as a medic to groups of soldiers counting My standout teacher was Ms. Charlotte Pfau. She colleagues, and communities. But we do not need in the hundreds (a company consist of 200 hun- taught Commercial Math. Oh what a character to think alike in order to respect each other’s point dred soldiers). This class also prepared me for she was. She didn’t like her students complaining of view and try to understand our different per- teaching classes at AT&T. about anything! She’d get mad and say...\"You spectives. know, it ain’t no use to grumble and complain. Ms Sondra Norman helped me graduate and pro- When God sorts out the weather and sends rain… u vided expert guidance. well, then rain’s my choice!\" In other words, just deal with what’s given us in any aspect of our lives. Brenda (Uzzell) Shirk, Class of 1966 u Amen! I was given some great advice from the speech Mayna (Johnson) Hall, Class of 1967 u therapist at San Jac. Sorry, I don’t remember her name. Mr. Parker was my homeroom teacher for 3 years. Annette (Mazur) Zinn, Class of 1968 One could always go to him with any problem. He Most of you may not know I had (have) a lateral was very understanding and always knew just the I actually had the most influence from a coun- lisp. It wasn’t a frontal lisp that makes the TH right words to say - to comfort and console and selor, Mrs. Joyce Smith. She told me that if I did- sound instead of the S. A lateral lisp sounds slushy make you feel like whatever concerns or problem n’t move out of my family’s home, I would never and sometimes spit is involved. (Belated sorry to you might have wasn’t so bad after all. graduate. I moved out (temporarily) and gradu- anyone who may have experienced that!) ated! Teacher Gladys Getchmen always thought I u should be in theatre/drama. She would pick me I was always embarrassed to leave class for speech up in her VW bug to attend speech/drama compe- therapy, but heaven knows, I wanted to stop spit- John Rainey, class of 1964 titions. Her confidence in me and the skills that I ting with every S sound. learned paid off. I actually had jobs at both West- Football head Coach Kibile. ern Union and Eastern Onion singing telegrams. One day I arrived to therapy very upset because It helped pay the bills! my boyfriend had just hurt my feelings. I went In 1962 we discussed my future plans. I told him I into her office crying and with prompting, I told was torn between being a coach/teacher or going u her why. into sales. He explained that it was the same thing. When you’re in sales, you present your Ludy Goodson, Class of 1965 She said, “Everything that happens in high school product. When you’re a coach/teacher you’re sell- seems exaggerated. Good things make you feel ing your subject or the sport you coach. You are What is good advice from a teacher? I think the like you’re on a mountaintop and bad things make selling how to be the best you can. I chose sales be- answer for me depends on the context and the en- you feel lower than dirt. But when you are grown, cause of the money. I was starting a family, but I durance of impact. One of my English teachers, you’ll see things differently and things that always regretted not going into coaching. He gave Marcus Twitty, advised me to keep up with my po- seemed monumental in tenth grade, will seem in- me a very basic life skill. etry writing. Now, at age 71, I still write poetry and consequential in adulthood.” occasionally share it in a public forum. u She was so right. Another teacher, James Pitts, taught AP English Steve Ashcraft, Class of 1967 class. He required us to consider different per- u spectives on the book of Job. He assigned Marlene Yesterday Jack Clanton and I were discussing our Krafchek, with a Jewish heritage, and myself with Rita (DiBella) Gladding, Class of 1965 teachers. We both agreed our biggest influence at a Catholic heritage, to work together and then to San Jac during our senior year was Mr. John separately write and then share our interpreta- Miss Rosalie Filappone impacted my life. She Weatherall. We were in his 3rd period civics/gov- tions. I learned something more about her culture taught Algebra II during my freshman year. And ernment class. He made it interesting and infor- and I think she did the same about mine. was the cheerleader sponsor during my junior & mative. We paid attention and learned how our senior years. democracy works. Now later in life we use this ba- There was a different twist on advice from the sic knowledge and we care about our local, state, coach of the debate team, Mack Godwin, who fo- One year, she drove 5 cheerleaders to New Or- and federal institutions. cused more on teamwork, competition, and win- leans for a senior trip (she probably was feeling ning. I recall being in tears while hearing from that if the Gauchos deserved a trip, so did we.)! u She was actually only a few years older than we were at the time. She frequently drove me home Jim (Bruce) Davis, class of 1965 from school and became the teacher I discussed everything with - from religion to boys! My vocational Radio TV instructor, Wayne Jamison, said “If there is something you really u want to learn, teach it!” Johnny Spaniel, Class of 1967 I still think of that phrase 50 years later. I was never a teacher, but his words stuck with me like When you entered Mr. Weatherall’s history class glue for some reason, Perhaps because it is so room on Monday morning, on the board was writ- true. If you act like a quack you can walk like a ten “Read the chapter. Test on Friday.” duck. Duck walk was a favorite punishment of some San Jac teachers. Ask me how I know. I really enjoyed his teaching. If you paid attention to his hints during the weekly get together, you’d u pass the class with a breeze and learn something about history as well. Linda (Rodriguez) Weaver, Class of 1967 u While English teacher, Mr. Delaney, didn’t actu- ally give me verbal advice, he taught by exam- Ava (Ener) Hayes, Class of 1967 ple. His speech was always measured. His gram- mar was impeccable. He dressed neatly, and his Right now I can’t think of her name, but there was stature was erect, confident. He never spoke a short woman who was always dressed well and down to his students. Without a word, he encour- ALWAYS wore lipstick. She told us many times aged us to elevate our character. He taught me I that we should look our best to be respected and to could have a conversation with a pauper or a king. NEVER chew gum when with others for the same I remember him always and silently thank him. reason. To this day, I think of her when chewing gum and rarely do it when anyone else is around. u She was very sweet and, although I can’t think of her name, I’ve never forgotten the advice. : )

THE CAMPUS CUB / DECEMBER 2019 / PAGE 4 HUMOR..US and MORE We are co-editing this page for the Campus Cub. We want to hear about the funny things which happened during your years at San Jac, on and off campus. We want stories about WW II and other memories from the 40's. Elizabeth Witte Tackaberry’54 JoyceMcKeeZimmerman’54 [email protected] [email protected] Year to Cheer By Rickey West Class of 1966 I was elected one of six cheerleaders in my junior year. We, the elected cheerleaders for the 1965-66 school High School Memories Pena on trumpet, Johnny Gonzalez & Ralph Saldiva year, were lucky to work with seasoned cheerleaders from the year before. They had 2 years experience Talent shows at San Jac High. These fun events both on saxes, and Armando Compean (band leader), behind them to share with us. They knew how it all showcased San Jacinto High's talented students. worked. I had no clue how hard it was going to be. This photo, taken by Rudy Flores a photography stu- on guitar. The band's regular drummer, Eddie Rodri- dent, is of the band, The Sultans, as they were get- Through the election process, I think I met everyone ting ready to play at a San Jac High talent show. guez, couldn't make it that day, so another guy filled at San Jacinto High. It was so much fun. To get Band members, are David Tristan on bass, Johnny elected, studying took a back seat to all other activi- in for him. Can anyone identify him? u ties. Keeping my grades up was part of getting Finding Love at San elected too. No good grades, no cheerleading — re- Jacinto High School gardless of how hard one had worked to get elected. By Raymond Torres Needless to say, it all went well. I got elected and Class of 1968 sooner than our first plan of 1972, in case I got then I had to learn how to do the job. drafted. She graduated from San Jac in '67 and I in The truth is - I went to San Jacinto for one reason - '68. We got married on June 21, 1969. I married OMG! Guadalupe (Lupe) Ramirez. I was never drafted. I girls. And yes, there were many pretty ones there. went on with my life and began my career in con- After watching the cheerleaders from the previous It was 1965. The semester had just begun. I was sit- struction following my father's footsteps. two years, I wondered what I had gotten myself into. ting in Mr. Twitty's English class when this girl came But needless to say, I learned, as did my fellow in late. As she rushed past me to sit a few desks be- At first, I worked as a general laborer in apartment cheerleaders. Yay! Our \"Year To Cheer\" was upon us! hind me, I did my best to get this girl's attention, but construction. By 1971, I was one of the lower level she ignored me. bosses. In 1972, one day before Lupe's birthday, our It was awesome!!! On New Year's Eve of 1965, I went to the Pan Ameri- son was born. I was a dad at 23. can Night Club. Little did I know that this would be I loved the football team. They worked so hard. They the night that she wouldn't ignore me. In early '74, I began to work as a contractor, framing were such great guys and so serious too. They were We began to date steadily. It wasn't long before we houses. In '75, our daughter was born. In '78, we fun guys, but it was clear they took their job very knew our relationship was leading to marriage. The moved to a new home on the west side. It's still earnestly. Vietnam War was raging and guys were getting where we live today. The kids grew fast and I moved drafted in big numbers. We decided to get married on to remodeling and home building. We all became such great friends. As cheerleaders I thought if we screamed loud enough, that players The recession of the 80's shaped the rest of my life as like George Mangum, Art Chapa or Kenny Gallender I found less stress in remodeling than home build- would just plow right through those giants on some ing. Around '79, Lupe began to work part time at a of the other teams. And some times they did! When Mother's Day Out program at a church. She still they didn’t, it killed all of us. does that today. It was standard for San Jacinto High School cheer- Our son, Scott, lives in Pfleugerville with his wife, leaders to be there for our guys after the game too. son and 2 adopted daughters. Our daughter, Libby, We, the Booster Club, and many other fans held a lives in Richmond with her husband and their 2 rally after each game outside the building where the daughters. Our grand children are the icing on our guys were getting cleaned up. While we were cake. screaming outside, they were showering and getting patched up inside. We've attended several San Jac class reunions. In October 2018 we attended the 1968 50th class re- We loved our football players and let them know union. It was good to see some of my old friends when they came out. We screamed and yelled all the from San Jacinto High; friends like Raymond Joe, way to their bus. Our goal was to let them know - win Elgin Taylor, Carlos Gloria, Johnny LeMaster, Alex or lose - we were there for them. I think they knew it. Villanueva, Leonard Guerrero and Robert Samudio. We also cheered at all of the basketball games. Our Lupe & I went to Acapulco in 1970, to Disney World group of cheerleaders felt it was important to be in '83 and to Switzerland and Rome in 04. Those there for all the San Jac teams. trips have been the highlight of our travels. Last year we visited Colorado. Our “Year To Cheer” was more than I ever thought it would be in so many ways. Yes, it was fun. But, It was In Genesis, God brought Eve to Adam as his helper also a lot of hard work. I know one thing. It was the and Adam was pleased for she was now part of him. most rewarding experience of my high school In Twitty's class, He brought Lupe to me and I was life.Over the years since high school, we’ve had sev- pleased and she is part of me as well. I pray that we eral class reunions. It’s been wonderful to reunite can live out our lives together until God calls us with friends. The reunions have been special times home. San Jacinto High will be in my thoughts to meet with friends and to remember together when I am facing my last moments, for God had those wonderful years at San Jacinto High School. planned my and Lupe's lives long before 1965. u Go Bears! PS… I live and work in Houston. u

THE CAMPUS CUB / DECEMBER 2019 / PAGE 5 The First Texas Brewery Depending on how you feel about beer drinking, you can blame or thank the Germans for bringing the brewer’s art to Texas. At first it was small scale. A farmer who brought the knowledge with him from the old country would brew enough for the enjoyment of himself and his neighbors. The first commercial brewery didn’t spring up until the mid 1850s...just about hundred yards from the Alamo. Founded by German immigrants William Menger and Charles Degen in 1856, the Menger Brewery (sometimes called the Western Brewery) pro- duced a product so good it became a tourist attraction. Menger was a cooper (barrel maker) and supplied the barrels for the brew. Degen was the brewmaster. Texas’ first. Charles Degen & Brew Crew c.1890 If Mr. Menger liked you, he might light a candle and guide you through a tun- nel off the hotel basement for a tour of the brewery. After Menger died in 1871, Degen carried on the business with Mrs. Menger until 1878, when the last barrel of Menger brew was bunged and Degen struck out on his own. He ran the tiny Degen Brewery until his death in 1912. What Degen’s brew- ery lacked in size it made up for in pride and craftsmanship. It became a mecca for beer lovers. Mr. Degen’s passing in 1912 was especially lamented by printers, an occupa- tion whose members where known in those days for their love of drinking. A 1912 issue of The Typographical Journal stated: “It is doubtful if there is a printer in the country who has ever been to San An- tonio that has not visited the famous Degen Brewery and spent a few mo- ments in drinking what is claimed by the United States government to be the purest beer brewed in this country. Many of the printers keenly felt the loss when this estimable old gentleman passed from this earth on February 8.” William Menger - The Beer King of Texas c.1858 Made those barrels himself. (DeGolyer Library - Lawrence T. Jones III Texas Photography Collection) Of course a brewery needs a lot of water, and that was supplied by the Acequia Madre de Valero, sometimes called the Alamo Madre Ditch. This stone-lined irritation ditch was built in the 1720s and ran from the San Antonio River to the Alamo mission and then through what is now the Menger Hotel courtyard. About that hotel. This detail of the Menger Hotel as it was in 1885 is taken from our historic map of Alamo Plaza. As it Was in 1885 Texas Trivia What do the Alamo Church and the Menger Hotel have in common? The same man was responsible for both facades. When the US Army took over the Alamo as a quartermaster depot in 1849, Major Edwin Babbitt hired a German stonemason names John (Johann) Fries to restore the front of the church and put a roof on it. John Fries is the man who created the parapet recognized around the world. A Decade later, William Menger hired Fries to design and build his new hotel. u The Menger Hotel c.1870 It owes its existence to Menger & Degen’s beer trade. When the brewery opened in 1856, so many people flocked to it that Mr. Menger decided to ex- pand his wife’s boarding house to accommodate them. The fancy limestone Menger Hotel opened its doors to thirsty travelers in 1859.

THE CAMPUS CUB / DECEMBER 2019 / PAGE 6 SAN JACINTO 50TH HIGH SCHOOL REUNION, OCT. 2019 Virginia Herrera Class of 1969 The SJHS Class of 1969, held its’ reunion at the Hilton Houston Westchase, on Saturday, October 26, 2019. Thank you to the reunion committee, that worked for months to pull together a terrific event: Virginia Herrera, Lupe Prado, Sylvia Cardona, Elly Falcon, Lois Harvey, Paulette Bingley, Lan Moore, Mary Lou Garcia, James Rasmus, Emma Odom, and Lilly Allen. Tour of San Jacinto High School Campus Approximately 19 classmates, gathered to tour SJHS cam- pus on Saturday morning. HCC DeJuana Williams, lead the group tour. The gym looks much as it did then. The original cafeteria, is now a computer tutoring class room. A cafe is now located in the modern left wing. This café has all glass walls, with the view of the front of the school. The auditorium has new seats on the first floor, and is where the Alumni meeting are held. The auditorium sec- ond floor has all the original seats. The window frames are original; however, the panes have been replaced. Houston Hilton Westchase Hotel 1968, 1969, and 1970 Classmates plus spouses and signifi- cant others, gathered at Hilton Houston Westchase, on Saturday evening, October 26, 2019 for socializing, din- ner, dancing and nonstop conversation. Committee member, Emma Odom opened the evening by greeting classmates and orchestrated the flow of the entire event. The trick of the evening, was to move among classmates, greeting and conversing, without allowing one’s glance to fall to the name badges. A yelp of recognition followed by a hearty embrace. At the end of the evening, each classmate reluctantly de- parted just before midnight, to end our celebration of the 5oth reunion. For each of us, the reunion was a swirl of current impres- sions, overlaid by fond memories. Even if you weren’t able to make it to the reunion, you were in our thoughts. Golden Bears Forever Shine u

THE CAMPUS CUB / DECEMBER 2019 / PAGE 7

THE CAMPUS CUB / DECEMBER 2019 / PAGE 8 The San Jacinto Vocational Drafting Instructor best in class for engineering/design industry and was the legendary Mr. Ralph Bacon who was a gave me the distinct privilege of doing three seg- strict no-nonsense disciplinarian, an excellent ments on the Discovery Channel. teacher and great mentor to those who wanted to learn. In short, I eventually graduated and started I think my most proud achievement at Shell was work on a Monday at Transcontinental Gas Pipe- being re-classified as a technical professional (en- line as an entry level Draftsman. Surprisingly, I gineering status without a degree) and being part was breaking the glass ceiling as the first Hispanic of Shell Exploration & Production Inc. XLT Ex- in Transco’s drafting room. Transco subsequentl tended Leadership Team) of approximately 70 hired six more San Jacinto Drafting graduates global managers, general managers and vice pres- within the next two years who all performed ad- idents responsible for driving Shell’s business mirably. model for success. After five years, I left Transco in search of more I retired from Shell in 2016 after 28 years of ser- opportunities and was hired on at Brown & Root vice and 48 years of work life experience in the Inc. as an offshore Piping Designer. After approx- Design Drafting arena. I personally acknowledge imately five years and about twelve successful that my success is due, in part, to God’s guiding projects, three of my engineering degreed col- hand, my beloved parents and grandparents, the leagues and I decided to go into business and start great people and supervisors that helped me our own engineering company called Houston In- reach my potential and my San Jacinto High ternational Engineering, Inc. From 1977 to ap- School Vocational Drafting experience. How else proximately 1987, our new company, Houston In- would a “poor old Mexican boy from Magnolia ternational Engineering became a very successful Park on the east side of Houston come so far”. In- engineering consultant and key engineering firm credible, but true. for Shell Oil Company, Inc. from New Orleans, Louisiana and many more international clients. I am the quite proud of being an American of Mexi- can descent, a proud Texan, a lifelong Houstonian Unfortunately, starting about 1985 to 1987 the oil and most of all a San Jacinto Golden Bear! u and gas worldwide industry went “bust” with oil Your Ticket to Success prices hitting a staggeringly low $10 a barrel pric- ing. Our company was not immune and after des- = Vocational Drafting perately trying to stay afloat we closed our busi- ness, sold our building and parted ways. Shortly By Robert Samudio after, I received a call from Shell Offshore Inc. Class of 1968 from New Orleans offering me a job offer to work in New Orleans and be part of a new company, ap- As a young teenager, I always read comic books propriately named Shell Deepwater Develop- ment. and was impressed with the advertisements on the back of the comics but especially those that This started my 28-year career at Shell Explora- read; Make Big Bucks - Learn Drafting! What I tion & Production of world class Tension Leg Plat- also liked was that the advertisement portrayed a forms (TLP’s) and eventually my progression to man wearing a white shirt, a tie and was working Shell Design Drafting SME (subject matter ex- inside office with air conditioning. So, in the pert) and Global Design Drafting Manager for eighth grade I chose to go to San Jacinto High seven worldwide locations. Our Shell 3D CAD school to study and, eventually, learn Drafting. PDMS technology became the industry leader for One of many encouraging notes sent with a donation to help the Cub stay afloat. See more on page 9 We’ll Never Please cut along line - Please PRINT clearly Dues for year _______ Gutter Ball Name...................................................................Class......... You Maiden name......................................................................... In our vernacular, “Gutter Ball” means cancelling a subscrip- Address.................................................................................. tion. City.................................................State.......Zip.................... We assume that when you don’t keep up with your Cub sub- Tel. Home: ( )........................ Biz: ( )........................ scription, it’s because you can’t afford it. You can be as rich as Email ....................................................................................................... Bim Gump but that’s the first conclusion we draw. Dues are $25.00 per year or $200 for a Lifetime Membership. Please make your checks payable to SAN JACINTO HIGH Then there’s “I’ll get around to SCHOOL ALUMNI ASS'N, and mail to Jacob Lefkowitz at P.O. it in a few days,” with every in- Box 31298, Houston, TX 77231 tent on of doing so. Many of us do that. Whatever, we need as many paid subscriptions as we can get. Cut us a check now and get it off your mind. Help keep us afloat. u

THE CAMPUS CUB / DECEMBER 2019 / PAGE 9 Your Letters.. The Link Between Us The Letters section of the CUB is the party-line that connects all parties. (For you youngsters, a “party line” was a telephone number shared by two or more subscribers. It allowed you to listen in to conver- sations of neighbors..) We want to print as many letters as we can; the shorter the letter, the more letters we can publish. If your letters is overly long, it probably should be made into an article. In that case, keep it under 800 words and provide a photo which ties-in with the subject. Letters Editor: Donna (Ayoub) Tidwell, Class of 1961 u “So many needing help these days. But, I do appreciate “Alan, I am so glad you are trying to keep the Campus for years to come. And Alan, thank you for all the things your work on the Campus Cub and always read it from Cub continuing. Thanks for all you do! A big ”Hi!\" you have done to keep the spirit of San Jacinto alive.” cover to cover. Thanks to all of you who are devoted to from me to Marlene. James Hill, ‘54 this effort.” Eleanor Lewis, ‘56 Diane Schmidt Lilly, ‘52 u u u “I guess when it is time, it’s up to the ”old folks\" to re- (To Jay Lefkowitz) “Do you remember me? Milton was solve this problem. We are the ones who have love the “Alan, I am already a Life Member, but here’s $100 to married to my sister Yvonne Farber. I was wondering Campus Cub the most and have had the most time to keep the San Jac Life Boat afloat.” if the Campus Cub might consider doing a story about appreciate it. At 93, I have had 76 years of Campus Cub Stanley Fagin, ‘55 my late father, Col. Leonard Farber? I think he gradu- news and it has been fabulous. Thank you all for the ated from San Jacinto about 1930 and served in the U. Campus Cub.\" u S. Air Force for more than thirty years. If so, let me Carolyn “Connie” Burke know!” “Alan, I didn’t realize I had outlived my Life Membership Arnold Farber, ‘58 u status, but I am happy to support the Campus Cub cause. Thanks to you for all you have done for our alumni.” u “Alan, please renew my Lifetime Membership. My Sharyn M. Sporar, ‘57 check is enclosed. I have some great memories of San “I do not know if I am paid up in does or if I have a Life Jac as a student and then, later, as a Teacher and then, u Subscription. Or what? Nevertheless, I am making an even later, as an Administrator.” Annual Dues payment!” Robert Wheeler “Hi, Alan! Thanks for all you are doing to keep the Robert L. Frnka, ‘52 “Alan, here’s my check. Hope this helps!” Campus Cub alive. I enjoy it so much. Warm regards Lewis Pontikos to all!” u Eleanor (Lewis) Levy u “I am enclosing $200 for a Lifetime Subscrip- u tion/Membership in the San Jacinto Alumni Associa- “Alan, please accept this small donation for the Cam- tion. Thank you for all your time and energy spent to pus Cub fund. You have done a great job keeping mem- “Alan, thanks to you and the staff for keeping us Bears keep the Campus Cub available.” ories alive for many years. We hope you will continue connected.” Norma “Alice Kling” Rogers for many more.” Mae Jean (C’tan) Chan, ‘52 Don Barton, ‘55 u Janice Massingill Barton, ‘61 u “Viva the Cub and the SJAA! Keep up the good work. u “I hope the Cub continues as a print edition. It is always We all enjoy the nostalgic Cub.” a pleasure to read. While the stories are wonderful, I Fritz Holt, ‘55 “Alan, a second Lifetime Membership! I don’t know do like the shared experiences, such as ”Remember June Knolle Levy, ‘53 how long ago I did my first, but I definitely got my when...? I would also like to know what people are do- money’s worth. I hope this check will buy me some ing these days. Such as ‘life style’ and ‘coping skills’. u more time. Hope all is well with you and Marlene. I While I doubt anyone cares to read about our individ- saw her last at Kat’s memorial dinner a few years ago. ual aches and pains, there is nonetheless consolation “Know you will put every effort into continuing your Give her my best.” in knowing we are not alone in our various battles and excellent publication of our beloved Campus Cub. It Harvey A. Seline concerns as we age. Just thinking.\" has meant so much to me over the years. Brings back Mary Sue (Vardamon) Hodges, ‘58 joyous memories of my years at San Jacinto. Dr. u Gates? Mr. Rogers? My year as Major in the Golden u Gauchos and Betty Pyland as Leader of our Drum & “I was supposed to graduate in 1948. I took four Bugle Corps. Wishing you all great success and courses in the summer of 1947 and graduated in the “For the Cub! Thanks for doing so much for our orga- blessings!” summer of 1947.” nization.” Betty S. Burnham, ‘44 Dorothy Hagen, ‘47 Claudia Moursund, ‘59 u u u “You have done a terrific job in keeping us informed “Please find my check for $200 for a Lifetime Member- “The paper is very important to keep all of the alumni - and tying the bonds of our high school alma mater. I ship. Thanks to all of you for keeping our Campus Cub no matter where they live! - informed about our class- signed on as a Lifetime Subscriber yeas ago. Here is going. I am sure my former Lifetime Membership ex- mates. Who ever thought postage on a single letter (another) donation of $100, which I hope will last pired a long time ago. I appreciate all your efforts in would be more than $.50? It may be that ”new\" Cub more than my (present) lifetime.” the San Jacinto Alumni Association.” will have to made with less articles. I enjoy the articles, Sol Schwarz Ginger (Nelson) Renfrow Blanton but old memories of the neighborhood should be the first to go. Good luck with the fund raising!\" u u Dorothy Chesser, ‘59 “Alan, thanks for all that you do for the San Jacinto “Dear Alan: Your plan sounds great and should keep u Alumni Association.” the Campus Cub going for the future. Thanks for your Mansel Rubenstein, ‘57 dedication.” “Enclosed, please find my check for renewal of my Life- Anna Z. time Subscription. I heard I had actually outlived it! u Without calling anybody out, let me say that more ‘56 u graduates need to come to the meetings! Lots of fun and “Please find enclosed a check for $200 for my ”second it is always fun to see old friends (whether I recognize Lifetime Membership. I haven’t lifetimes, but it just Hope this amount is helpful. Please notify me if I need you or not!). Never mind, I WILL call out a few. Bobby seems like it at age 92.\" to do more. Thank you for your efforts.\" ”Touchdown\" Diaz, Jean Patterson Frey, Nancy Hipp.\" Caren Bean, 44 Michael Longley, ‘59 F. King, ‘56 u u u “Dear Editor: Thanks for keeping the Campus Cub “The enclosed check for $100 is for the Campus Cub. “I should have done this long ago! Thank you all for alive. Enclosed is a check for $50, which should cover Thank you all for everything you do to keep the San your hard and good work! I am a Lifetime Subscriber. me until 2021. By then, I will be 100 years old! Hope to Jacinto Alumni Association and the Campus Cub going.” Edward Earp, ‘43 be able to send a renewal for 2022.” Sandra Waldman Simon, ‘62 Jeanne E. Cohen u u u “To the great San Jac Alumni Association officers and “Dear Alan: Hope this helps to keep the Campus Cub workers: I am a Life Subscriber, but we overlooked a “Please renew my dues for 2020 and 2021.” afloat.” separate contribution (subscription) for my wife, Eleanor Gordon Logan Sandra Shainock Adair Viebig, ‘58. A check is attached. Keep up the good work!” Dick Viebig, ‘58 u u u “I must have outlived my lifetime membership and “Enclosed is a check for the Campus Cub 2019 dues. didn’t realize it. Enclosed plese find a check for $200 Many thanks for all you do.” “My sister and I are sending this check in memory of for another one.” Louis S. Halphen our Mom, Hildegarde Levy Cohn. ‘38. She loved get- Clark C. Flato, ‘64 ting the Campus Cub. Thanks for taking care of every- u thing.” u Connie Cohn Pollon “Here’s my check. In response your ”ad\" urging us to Kathy Cohn Knott “Alan, I am sending a check for Life Memberships #3 keep the Campus Cub boat afloat. Don’t let anything and #4. I really enjoy receiving the Cub. Feel very for- happen to the Cub!\" u tunate to have Class of ‘54 grads writing articles in every Shrley Toomim edition. Thank you Alan, Gary, Joyce and others for your contributions. Hope to continue getting the Cub u

THE CAMPUS CUB / DECEMBER 2019 / PAGE 10 In Loving Memory of .... Our major source of obituaries is the Houston Chronicle. We are certain that there were scores of deaths during the year which are not reported here - deaths in Omaha, Los Angeles, Dallas, Miami, in all the cities where alumni live. We could do a much better job if we read the obituaries in our newspaper and clipped those which sounded familiar. Send them along with a note identifying the newspaper to The Campus Cub, c/o Jacob Lefkowitz, P.O. Box 31298, Houston, TX 77231. The situation can be corrected if classmates check obituaries in their local newspapers. If they see a name which rings a bell, clip it and mail it to us. Mail the clipping to us even though you are not positive. At our end, we will verify the name using HISD sources. u Gertrude Drews Beutel, 1942 Wanda Pauline Funkhouse Lawhon Beverly Jayne Levin Beck May, 1944 Trachtenberg, 1946 Gertrude died August 17, 2019 in Houston. She was born November 30, 1924. She was a secretary Polly died April 11, 2019 in San Clemente, Califor- Beverly died October 26, 2019 in Houston. She for Long Middle School in the H.I.S.D. Gertrude nia. She was born November 2, 1927 in Moran, was born July 30, 1929 in Houston. After being a was preceded in death by husband of 47 years Texas. She grew up on her grandfather’s farm, baton twirler at San Jac, she attended UT before Vernon, brother Herman (class of ’48) and sister then left Texas to attend Pepperdine College in transferring to U of H. After marrying Arthur Dorothy (class of ’54) and is survived by a son, a Los Angeles. After graduating, she married Beck, they moved to Ft. Riley, Kansas while he daughter and 2 grandchildren. A private burial Charles Funkhouse and they had 3 sons. After a served in the Army. They then returned to Hous- was held at Forest Park Lawndale Funeral Home. divorce, Polly worked for Caterpillar and John ton and were founding members of Congregation Deere. Having raised her sons as a single mother, Brith Shalom. She enjoyed taking the grandchil- Norman Goree Kittrell, 1942 she met/married Ed May, who had 2 daughters dren to Galveston beach and each had a spot on himself. They lived in San Clemente and Polly her wall she called “rouges gallery”. After Arthur Norman died July 31, 2019 in Houston. He was a shifted from managing construction to showing died in ’94, she married Jacob Trachtenberg and 4th generation Texan, born in Houston August real estate. She and Ed traveled a lot and were they traveled the world and raised orchids until 26, 1925. The Kittrell family were founders of strong supporters of the California Angels and his death in 2007. She was Sisterhood President Trinity Episcopal Church and Norman held vari- San Diego Chargers. Polly was an enthusiastic at Brith Shalom and a board member of Texas ous positions there over the years including Presi- member of the Republican Women’s Club and Jewish Historical Society as well as volunteering dent of the Trinity Church Endowment. He at- voiced her political opinion regularly. She loved at Memorial Herman Southwest for 8 years. She tended church there until he was physically un- to cook, roses, wild birds and the beach. Polly is leaves 8 grandchildren as survivors. A service was able to do so. He earned a PE degree from UT and survived by husband of 45 years Ed, her 3 sons held October 28, 2019 at Beth Yeshurun Post Oak worked for Texaco for 45 years and lived in New and 2 step daughters, 11 grandchildren and 14 Cemetery. York and Denver, eventually becoming President great grandchildren. A service was held at San of International Exploration. He and wife Joy en- Clemente Presbyterian Church. Jack Lapin, 1948 joyed business travels around the world and to their vacation home in Breckenridge, Colorado. Helen Adele Murray Johnson, 1945 Jack died August 20, 2019 in Houston. He was At Breckenridge, he and Joy were active at St. born January 15, 1931 in Grodno, Poland. At age 7, John’s Episcopal Church. Norman loved the Helen Adele died September 6, 2019 in Dallas. She as Nazism was spreading in Europe, the family Rockies and fishing, hiking and climbing. In his was born September 28, 1928 in Houston. She was moved to the U.S. and settled in Houston. Jack’s 60’s, he hiked with a friend to the base camp of “Most Representative Girl” in her 1945 San Jac class parents owned a small Deli and the entire family Mt. Everest. He was a WWII veteran, enlisting in and attended UT, where she was in Alpha Delta Phi. worked there. At that time, it was the only Deli in the Marines at 17. Norman was preceded in death She met James there and they later married and town. It became a major gathering place for Jews by sister Maidel (class of ’45) and is survived by moved to Beaumont where he began his career. around the city. Charitable functions developed wife of 70 years Joy, a son, 2 daughters, 6 grand- They later transferred to Philadelphia, where she and many in the Jewish community were assisted children and 2 great grandsons. A service was taught school. After returning to Texas, she taught as needed. Jack’s favorite pastime as a youth was held at a later date. in RISD until retiring. She won the Texas Congress using his Library card and he became a lifelong of PTA Award while there. She was a founding book reader. He graduated from Rice as Phi Beta Leopold Deblanc Pellerin, 1943 member of St. Stevens Episcopal Church and was Kappa and UT Law School where he was near the active in each church she attended. She and James top of his class. He spent 2 years in the Army and “Dutch” died July 24, 2019 in Houston. He was traveled the world and then moved to the Highland married Susan during this time. Afterward, he born November 18, 1926 in New Orleans. He was Springs Retirement Community in Dallas. She had a career finance law and real estate. He even- preceded in death by wife Erline, a brother, 2 sis- served on numerous committees there and received tually partnered to form Lapin, Totz and Mayer, ters and a grandson. He is survived by 6 children, an award for her service. She was preceded in death where he practiced for many years. He spent 17 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren. A by husband James and is survived by a son, 2 much of his time on community service and was private funeral was held at Holy Ghost Catholic daughters 6 grandchildren and 7 great grandchil- President of the Board of Trustees of the Jewish Church. dren. A service was held September 13, 2019 at Community Center and other Jewish organiza- Church of the Holy Communion in Dallas. tions. He also helped establish the Shlenker Abe Daily, 1944 School. He received numerous awards for his con- Jacob Lefkowitz, 1945 tributions over the years. Jack and Susan traveled Dr. Abe Daily died July 24, 2019 in Houston. He the world and volunteered constantly. Jack was was born January 17, 1927 in Simonton, Texas. He Jacob died July 31, 2019 in Houston. He was born preceded in death by a grandson and brother took A&M summer classes, learning the cotton July 8, 1928 in Houston. He was a Sgt. In the Herman (class of ’51) and is survived by wife of 63 business, then returned to the family business. He Army and met wife-to-be and Canadian Miriam years Susan, 3 children and 4 grandchildren. A was in the Army, stationed at several U.S. bases, on a train while on leave. Jacob was a lifelong sup- service was held August 22, 2019 at Congregation then he returned home and to the U of H until grad- porter of Israel and helped the Jews during the Beth Israel. uation. Afterward, he returned to the Daily Brothers Arab invasion in 1948. He was a hard worker, General Store in Simonton, running the store and working 2 jobs until in his 50’s. He became a com- Marvin Abram Rich, 1949 the farm and cattle operations. He married Cacilie puter guru in his 60’s and 70’s and loved reading and they had 4 children in Simonton and in 1961, and traveling. He was a carpenter and cabinet Marvin died August 12, 2019 in Houston. He was they moved to Houston so Abe could attend U of H maker and made pieces for family members. He born in Houston April 1, 1932. Marvin was pre- college of Optometry. After graduating, he opened a and Miriam hosted Shabbat dinners for decades ceded in death by son Kenneth and is survived by private practice and later worked with TSO. After and he was active in the Chapel at Congregation wife Shirley, 4 children and 3 grandchildren. A retiring, he and Cacilie traveled the U.S. and inter- Beth Yeshurun. Jacob was the editor of our San service was held August 15, 2019 at Emanu El Me- nationally. They sold quilts and antiques through Jacinto Campus Cub newspaper for the last few morial Park. their company, Miscellany. Abe enjoyed reading years and will be greatly missed in this role. He westerns, watching football and especially a slice of was also Treasurer of the Alumni Association. Ja- Anna Jane Davis Love, 1950 cherry pie from Cleburne Cafeteria. Abe was pre- cob is survived by wife of 66 years Miriam, 5 chil- ceded in death by a daughter and wife of 68 years dren, 10 grandchildren and 6 great grandchil- Jane died September 19, 2019 in Webster. She Cacilie and is survived by 2 sons, a daughter, 4 dren. A service was held August 2, 2019 at Beth was born August 27, 1932 in Helena, Arkansas. grandchildren, a sister and a brother. A service was Yeshurun Cemetery. She lived an active life and was a big fan of the held July 28, 2019 at Emanu El Memorial Park. Rockets, Astros and Texans. She attended U of H, studying Real estate Mgmt. and earned a Texas Dorothy Jean Lloyd, 1944, Real Estate License. Dorothy died July 5, 2017 in Huntsville. She was born April 21, 1927. She is survived by her brother. No additional information was available at this printing. Service arrangements were han- dled by Cochran Funeral Home of Livingston.

THE CAMPUS CUB / DECEMBER 2019 / PAGE 11 Robert Gene Culver, 1951 Gilbert N. Steile, 1953 Alfred Garcia Leal, 1962 Bob died July 23, 2019 in Tucson, Arizona. He Gilbert died December 5, 2018 in Wesley Chapel, Judge Alfred Leal died October 31, 2019 in Hous- was born March 8, 1932. He worked in sales for Florida. He was born September 23, 1934 in Del ton. A native Houstonian, he was born July 11, the Auto Parts Business and after retiring, began a Rio. At San Jac, he was a company commander in 1944. After graduating from San Jac, where he 2nd career refinishing and selling antique furni- the ROTC and later at A&M was a captain in the was a cheerleader, he earned a BS in Psychology at ture. He enjoyed showing horses with his children Army Corps. He graduated from A&M with de- U of H and then served in the Army as a medic and bowling and playing cards with friends. He grees in both Petroleum Engineering and Geology. where he received the Combat Medical Badge. Af- was married to Kaki for 66 years and she died last He also served in the Army Reserves for 4 years. ter returning, he started at South Texas School of year. His 3 children and their families lived near His entire career of over 40 years was spent in the Law and then transferred to U of H. While in him his entire life. petroleum industry and he spent 4 years in Europe school, he taught in several HISD schools. In 1979 and at other overseas locations. His work included he served as a Municipal Court Judge and, after 3 Joan C. Ryba, 1952 both desert and deepwater drilling. He loved being years became Judge of Harris County Criminal in the mountains and he was an avid reader. Court of Law No.9. Over the years he was a Pre- Joan died August 2, 2019 in Houston. She was Gilbert is survived by wife of 39 years Lynnette. cinct Judge, State Democratic Executive Commit- born with her identical twin sister on September tee member and active in the Mexican American 2, 1934. Joan graduated Phi Beta Kappa from Rice Judith Eve Chesner, 1955 bar Assn. of Houston. He also supported Wesley where she was a cheerleader. After graduating, House and the Houston Hispanic Forum and was she became one of the original Texas Copa Girls at Judy died January 31, 2019. She was born Septem- a senior fellow in American Leadership Forum’s the Sands Hotel in Las Vegas. In 2002 she ber 3, 1937 in Brooklyn, New York. The family Class XII. His hobbies included fishing at his married Don Gillis, who she knew from her moved to Houston when she was 13 and later she beach house and tending to his plants. Al was pre- days at Rice. He died only 8 days before she moved back to N.Y. for several years before return- ceded in death by 3 brothers and is survived by followed. Joan is survived by her adopted fam- ing to Houston. She worked for M.D. Anderson in wife of 37 years Mary, 2 sons, a daughter, 2 grand- ily the Wilsons and Don’s 2 children. A service both Smithville and Houston as a researcher. A children, a brother and a sister. A service was held was held at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church Sep- service was held for her at the home of friends. at Morales Funeral Home November 7, 2019. tember 14, 2019. Eugene J. Wilkenfeld, 1955 Tommy Dale Leach, 1965 Ashley Ward Lott, 1953 Eugene died November 1, 2019 in Houston. He was Tommy died in Houston September 6, 2019. He Ward died July 16, 2019 in Horseshoe Bay, Texas. born in Houston January 18, 1937. He served in the was born in Houston February 15, 1945. He lived He was born May 31, 1934 in Dallas. At San Jac, he Army and then spent over 50 years in the recycling his entire life in Houston and retired from Triple was successful in ROTC, attaining rank of Battal- and scrap metal industry. He loved sports, gin rummy AAA. He was preceded in death by a sister and ion Commander and was on the drill team. He at- and playing golf. He was a member of the Sugar Creek other family members. A private burial took place tended both Rice and U of H and earned a degree Country Club. Eugene was preceded in death by a son at Forest Park-Lawndale. in I.E. He was a pioneer in computing and data and is survived by wife of 56 years Rita, a daughter, a processing and formed his own company with his son and 4 grandchildren. A service was held Novem- partners. He was a man of many interests. He ber 4, 2019 at Emanu El Memorial Park. liked animals, sailing, farming wine making and was a coronet player in an old man band. He vol- Frederick Martin Guenzel, 1957 unteered through his church and was handyman to his daughters. He loved both mountains and Fred died May 25, 2019 in Fairfield, California. the hill country and had places in Horseshoe Bay He was born July 5, 1939 in Wichita Falls. Originally and Woodland Park, Colorado. Ward is survived wanting to be a patent attorney, he decided instead by wife of 53 years Diane, 2 daughters and 2 to earn a M.E. degree at U of H. He then discovered grandchildren. A private family service was held flying and became a Navy aviator, serving on 2 in Pagosa Springs, Colorado. cruises aboard the USS Oriskany in Viet Nam, flying the A-1 Skyraider. His ship was nearly sunk and 46 of the crew perished. He received numerous awards including the D.F.C. After the Navy, he flew for Western for a while and then returned to the Navy as a flight instructor in Beeville. He then flew for West- ern and Delta for 30 years before retiring to Fairfield where he took up pickle ball and tennis. He was pre- ceded in death by 1st wife Linda and is survived by wife Margot, a son, a daughter, a stepson, brother Da- vid (class of ’54), a sister, 2 granddaughters and a great granddaughter. A service was held at Sacramento Val- ley National Cemetery in Dixon, California. Dean Lewis, 1949 place than Ft. Hood. As an Army officer, I knew my ca- Unfortunately, as flames sometimes do, that flame reer in the U. S. Army without a college degree would be flickered out in 1984, so I came back to Texas, where I A Semi-Sorta-Somewhat-Almost, short, so I began taking college courses that were offered accepted a collegiate teaching position in San Marcos. on the post by nearby colleges at night and on the week- A But Not Quite…Obituary! end. I learned school was fun if you put in the time and That gig ended in 1986 when the Texas Legislature fter I finished reading the September, 2019 edition effort and earned good grades in the process. slashed the budget 27% for the entire university sys- of the Campus Cub, a delightful and informative publi- tem. All who were not tenured were told our jobs cation, I realized there was far too much blank space. My first college credits were from Mary Hardin Baylor, would not be renewed. a girls college. As I transferred from one place to an- I am Dean Lewis, San Jacinto Class of ’49 and I have no other, I sought each opportunity to enroll in classes Thus, I decided to go back to the one job I truly en- plans for departing anytime soon because I thought it whenever and wherever I had the opportunity. I joyed. would be fun to do this little deed. In fact, I am in rea- earned credits from an Episcopal “boys college” as well sonably good health and, at 88, work hard to keep as state universities and finally earned my degrees. I Also, I am excellent at my job. things just the way there are. am proud to report I secured double majors with double concentrations to my credit from a Methodist university. That job is…retirement! I was born on January 17, 1931 and my wonderful par- As I reported earlier, I “squeaked” through with only ents were Bell and Sam Lewis. In my opinion, simply passing grades at San Jacinto. I managed to score a 3.7 I have devoted almost all of my retired life to playing the best parents. Ever. GPA when I finally, finally graduated from college. games. Those were things I enjoyed in my earlier years and the list included tennis, whitewater canoeing, wil- I attended Allen Elementary and then McGregor Ele- One more thing: While I was working my way through derness (plus canoe) camping, inline skating, cycling mentary schools and then moved successfully past Al- college, I took time out to spend time in Vietname on and traveling. I have a friend from grade school who bert Sidney Johnston Junior High School to San two different tours, 1966-67 and 1970-71. This stint shares the same interests as well as utilization of dis- Jacinto High School. was called Advanced Survival Training. posable income. We enjoy each other’s company as we shoot for two or three months of travel annually. With Graduation, an event I just barely qualified for the walk I retired from the military in July, 1972 and, with my my overseas assignments combined with travel to dis- across the stage to receive my diploma, took place in wife and two sons, traveled the U.S., Canada and Mex- tant places, I have relished traveling to six continents. 1949 after my sister, Edis Lewis Parkans’s graduation. ico in our motor home for one really interesting year. Sadly, Edis died in August, 2017 in Overland Park, KS In September, 1973, I commenced graduate studies at Most importantly, for the last twenty years, I have just four years after the passing of my brother-in-law, the University of Maine in Orono, ME. I remember dated an amazing woman and a truly delightful com- Sid Parkans. this as attending school I on a gorgeous, typical New panion here in San Antonio. Her name is Bitsy and I England university campus. have shared many wonderful times with families and In July, 1949, after having squandered my public friends as we travel to all sorts of places. school education opportunities, I joined the United In 1976, I earned an MBA degree and was invited to teach States Marine Corps and succeeded in getting my mili- there. That proved to be a wonderful six-year adventure. As I stated in the beginning, I have no plans to depart tary obligation out of the way. When the Korean War I had taught in the U. S. Army and loved my job, where I this planet anytime soon, but I began this life’s journey began, we were all told we would not be released on our took great delight in being allowed to teach – once again! with an 85-year warranty. This body of mine now re- scheduled dates. I could not secure a commission in – at such a fine university with such fine students. flects 88 years of enjoyable living and traveling. No the Marine Corps and knew I did not want to stay as an more cycling. No more splashing around in the rapids enlisted man, so I arranged for a transfer to the U. S. But, life goes on. of Texas’ many rivers. My warranty has expired, so I Army, where I attended Officer Candidate School. I watch each step I take carefully. I might ease my back was commissioned in September, 1951 and, of course, Let’s simply say that after my divorced, I managed to into cycling when the weather improves. That would went right over to Korea, as we jokingly said, to attend rekindle an “old flame” with whom I had shared a be next year. “Survival Training”. pretty much idyllic life for a few years. We summered in Maine. We spent the fall in Buffalo, NY, where I Someone will eventually write my obituary. I spent the next seventeen months in Korea and was sub- taught. And we wintered in Florida at her condo. In sequently sent to Fort Hood, TX. Korea was a better the spring, we traveled for about three months. But, it won’t matter. I won’t be around to read it! u

Where to Send What P.O. Box 667517 (MC 1148) With the untimely death of Jacob Lefkowitz, the Board of Trustees headed by HOUSTON, TEXAS 77266-9943 Jerry Evans has assembled a team of leaders to address the various CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED responsibilities Jay handled until his failing health. Below are the contact persons for the interim period. REMEMBER, the previous P. O. Box (used THE CAMPUS CUB / DECEMBER 2019 / PAGE 12 by Jacob) no longer works. LETTERS Send all letters to: Gary Rollins HCC Central Campus Attn: San Jac Alumni 1300 Holman Houston, TX 77004 Email: [email protected] Ph: 972-757-9563 STORIES Gary Rollins HCC Central Campus Attn: San Jac Alumni 1300 Holman Houston, TX 77004 Email: [email protected] Ph: 972-757-9563 CHECKS Send ALL checks go to: Alan Finger HCC Central Campus Attn: San Jac Alumni 1300 Holman Houston, TX 77004 Email: [email protected] Ph: 713-628-7488 EMAIL (Electronic) MATTERS Changes, additions and deletions go to: Allen Grant at [email protected] “DIDN’T GET MY CUB” Get in touch with: Allen Grant 4122 Jetty Terrace Circle Missouri City, TX 77459 Email: [email protected] 281-261-5913 CIRCULATION MANAGER Changes to your mailing address go to: Allen Grant 4122 Jetty Terrace Circle Missouri City, TX 77459 Email: [email protected] 281-261-5913 OBITUARIES Send all Obituaries to Ray Kendrick, Obituaries Editor 22415 Goldstone Dr. Katy, TX 77450-1611 Ph: 281-392-5382 Email: [email protected] (Include name of newspaper and date published.) Many thanks! Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Permit 9957 Houston, Texas