I have lived in Princeton since graduation. Have four children. My son lives in Minneapolis and the girls are around the Princeton area. Also have eight grandchildren. My children all attended the Princeton schools and now my grandchildren are attending the schools here. 

I'm still working full time, planning on working a few more years.

Like everyone else I am wondering where the last 50 years went. After school I had a few different jobs before deciding to go in the Navy instead of being drafted. I left for boot camp in San Diego Feb. 1968. After boot camp it was on to school for interior communications. I was then stationed aboard the USS Chicago for the rest of my time in the Navy. That included 3 cruises to Viet Nam and many different ports while over there. I got out of the Navy in Feb. 1972.                                                                              

After getting home it was time to start the next chapter in the life of Phil. Before getting out of the Navy I was engaged to Jeanette Winkelman. We were married in June of 1972. I also started farming with my dad that year. My 2 brothers joined in a few years later. We all farmed together until my mom's passing in Dec. 1982, and 3 months later my dad passed away in March of 1983. My brothers and I farmed until 1992.                        

Jeanette and I had 3 beautiful daughters. All 3 were very athletic and I was able to spend many an hour watching them participate in Volleyball, Basketball, and Softball at Princeton High and Janelle in college. They are all married and have made me a proud grandpa. Janelle has 2 girls, Annika Rose and Natalie May. Kristie has 2 boys, Beckett Bradley and Parker Armstrong. Jodi has a boy, Cade Phillip and a girl, Cali Jet. Of couse I am very proud of them all.                                                                   

The next chapter was of new beginings. After getting out of farming — and divorce soon to follow — it was time to find a new career. I did several part time jobs, including as a substitute rural mail carrier. No, I didn't ever go "postal." I did, after 8 years though, get a full time position. I carried Route 1 out of Princeton for the next 15+ years. That was an 80 mile route with 500 stops through rain, sleet and snow that went west of town as far as Santiago. My car was my office and I enjoyed being outdoors. I was lucky enough to be able to retire at 66. My last day on the job was Friday the 13th, Feb.2015. Nothing unlucky about that day.                                                             

The next chapter begins in 2014 when I was elected commander of the Princeton VFW post. I am now in my 3rd year as commander. The high side is having a reason to get out of bed everyday and go do something useful. Some days I don't know how I had time for a regular job. I do find time for hobbies though. I enjoy fishing, camping, reading, collecting guns, collecting coins and other collectables, and going to auctions. I also enjoy spending time in Florida each year, a while longer now after retirement. Most of all I enjoy time spent with my girls and grandkids.                                       

I would like to add that I have enjoyed working with the committee for this reunion. I am looking forward to seeing everyone attending. I hope everyone enjoys themselves being in or coming back to Princeton.                                                                       

Next chapter: a mystery still to be written.

Here's my story, and I'm sticking to it!

I married Ed Johnson from Milaca in January of 1967.  We had 4 children, Patrick, Shawn, Michelle, and Jeremiah. We started our own businesses, first, concrete then expanded it to building homes.  In 1990, I got divorced.  I started working in the business office at the Milaca Hospital and Princeton Hospitals that later became Fairview Northland Hospitals.  I just retired from Fairview in April for 2016 after 27 yrs of employment.

I went back to St Cloud Business college in 1992 and received a diploma as a Legal Secretary.  I was honored as one of the "Non Traditionals students " to be asked to give a speech at graduation.  

After getting my diploma as a Legal secretary, I found my self employed as a administrative assistant at the Granite Care Home, in Sauk Rapids, where I was employed for 7 years.  I worked both jobs — at the Granite Care Home and Fairview. 

I am a grandmother of 7 wonderful grandchildren, that I am so proud of, with the addition of 2 grandsons that married my two oldest granddaugthers.   I also recently, became a great grandmother in August of 2016.

Since I retired in April, I went to Florida for 22 days, Canada fishing with my son and grandson for 8 days, and at the end of August visited North Dakota, Montana, Wyoming and South Dakota, visiting in Glacier and Yellowstone Parks, visited Cody Wy, Spearfish Canyon, Crazy Horse Monument, Mount Rushmore, and the Bad Lands.  

Retirement is Great!

After graduation I worked my way through St. Cloud State College, first at the Holiday Station in Princeton. The following summers I worked for a curb and gutter construction firm in the Twin Cities. I graduated in the summer of 1970 with a teaching degee in History and Social Studies. In 1971, I went to grad school and worked as the graduate Assistant to the Director of Student Activities at St. Cloud State.

In August of 1972, I was hired as the first Director of Community Education for the Monticello School District. I took Community Education courses at the College of St. Thomas part time and graduated in 1974.

I remained in my position at Monticello, (except for a one educational leave to attend Western Michigan in 1980-81), until I retired in July of 2013.

In 1979 I married my wife, Pat. We have four children born between 1983 and 1991. They live in Seattle , Boston, Ottawa, Canada and Minneapolis. Our four grandchildren live in Seattle.

In retirement, I continue to be involved in the Minnesota Community Education Association and the Monticello Rotary Club. Three years ago I begin volunteering with the Central Minnesota Council on Aging. I also like to downhill ski out west,  travel, spend time with our grandchildren, take photos, read, and attempt to get back into the game of golf . 

Following graduation, I worked a summer job at Smith Manufacturing in Princeton where I spot welded and painted school desks. In the fall I attended Bethel College in St. Paul.  After one semester it was apparent to me that I needed and wanted to work full time and attend night classes part time. I secured a job at Honeywell where I inspected electronic components during the day and attended classes in the evening at the University of Minnesota.

In February 1968, I got a call from the secretary of our local draft board stating that  the "infamous draft letter" with my name on it was scheduled to be mailed later that month. If I wanted to enlist in one of the service branches I should do so before it was mailed. So, on February 20, 1968 I joined the Army's "delayed enlistment program." In June, I was sworn in on home plate at the Minnesota Twins stadium with other members of  the Harmon Killebrew Platoon. Six months later in January 1969 I was stationed at the MACV Headquarters in Saigon, Vietnam. I was fortunate to obtain an early release to return home in time to spend Christmas, 1969 with my family. My final Army assignment took me to the AFEES Station in downtown Chicago where I remained until I was discharged in March of 1971 to return to college at the University of Illinois. While taking classes I worked full time in the computer departments of Time Life Publishing in Chicago and later a bank in Lincolnwood, IL.

Met my beautiful wife, Kathy, on a blind date (arranged by my best friend at church) in May 1972, got engaged in August and married in December 1972. Went back to school full time in the fall of 1973, completed my B.A. degree in Sociology and Psychology at Trinity International University in Deerfield, IL in May 1975. Went back to the University of Illinois where I earned my M.S.W. in June 1977. My post-graduate work includes a certificate in Family Systems Therapy (completed in June of 1980) from The Center for Family Studies / The Family Institute of Chicago at Northwestern University Medical School in Chicago, IL.

My professional experience includes private practice and positions as Program Director for a local youth services agency, an Employee Assistance Program professional, Executive Career Coach  and a Visiting Professor teaching Counseling Psychology courses to graduate-level students. I served as the Clinical Director and Regional Supervisor for a Federal Employee Assistance Program contract, managed a satellite office for an international Outplacement Consulting firm and Career Centers for Fortune 500 companies. I currently maintain a private practice providing career coaching and counseling services for individuals, couples and families.

Kathy, a registered nurse, and I will celebrate our 44th anniversary this year. We have three children (two sons and one daughter) and two granddaughters. We enjoy spending time with our immediate and extended families, friends,  attending church, relaxing at our condo in Door County, WI, going to music concerts, exercising and working on home remodeling projects.

In 2014, I was privileged to co-author a  book titled "Soul Windows - Paintings & Reflections"  with an 86 year old artist friend. It is a compilation of her paintings with poems and prose written by others who meditated on the images and then wrote their responses to the watercolor paintings.

In mid-February, 2015, I underwent double Coronary Artery Bypass surgery.  I was fortunate there was no damage to the heart muscle. I have fully recovered and am very happy to be here to share my story. I look forward to catching up with everyone at the reunion. 

Thoughts on aging and retirement:

"There is a fountain of youth: it is your mind, your talents, the creativity you bring to your life and the lives of people you love. When you learn to tap this source, you will truly have defeated age." — Sophia Loren

"Sooner or later I’m going to die, but I’m not going to retire." — Margaret Mead

"Choose a work that you love and you won’t have to work another day." — Confucius

 Still doing what I love....

Life from Minnesota and Coast to Coast: After leaving Princeton behind, most of my adult life was spent in the Lake Minnetonka area, settling down in Long Lake and raising my son and daughter while working for 15 years at the Orono School District, first as playground supervisor and ending as Executive Secretary to the Principal. Loved the work and it was very close to home. 

I remarried in 1989 and left Minnesota for Oregon to start the next chapter on the West Coast. I gotta say Oregon is a wonderful place to live and play. I found work at a titanium foundry making aircraft parts and medical implants. I left the foundry after 8 years in Quality Assurance and went to work as a Quality Engineer for a new start up company manufacturing a single engine, 4 seater, fixed gear airplane made completely of composite (fiberglass) material. We made the parts and put it all together.  A brand new type design which required all sorts of testing and approvals from the FAA which we received while I was the Quality Manager and direct interface with the FAA. It was an amazing experience and the most fun I've ever had besides raising two fabulous kids. When 2008 hit not many people could afford a $300,000 airplane anymore so sales were tough and I could see the handwriting on the wall.

Some months after I left them and moved to Virginia — the East Coast Chapter — the company was bought by Cessna and moved to Kansas City (I missed that bullet).  Virginia is home now and I am close to my daughter, son-in-law and two terrific grandchildren.  My son and my other two terrific grandchildren still live in Idaho.

The move to Virginia in 2004 was a good decision and I found a new career in Records Management with Owens & Minor, a Fortune 300 company. We distribute medical/surgical supplies to major hospital systems all over the U.S., and recently have gone international.

I've traveled to Malaysia for business and Italy, UK, and Scandinavia for pleasure plus many states in the U.S. All in all a very good life. Really excited about seeing everyone again soon.

I met Carolyn Erwin in college; we married in '69. We were blessed with 2 girls in the following few years. I always thought they were the best ever — then I read that John Taylor says his kids are the finest!

We spent most of our time in Inver Grove Heights, and Eagan where I was a veterinarian.  I retired in 2013 to take care of Carolyn; my love past away last year.

I'm very much looking forward to see everyone.

Married in 1968 to Ron Hanson.  We have 4 children, 9 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren.  We recently moved to Jordan, MN to be closer to kids and grandchildren.  Ron retired 4 yrs. ago and I am still working very part time.

Highlights of 50 years of life experiences

-Married 4 months after graduation. Moved to Chicago and had 2 children, a girl and a boy. Moved back to Minnesota and attended the U of M for 2 years. Divorced after 10 years. Decided to marry again. Was widowed after 5 months.

-Moved to California and worked in Silicon Valley at various electronic companies. Went to DeAnza college and earned my certfication to be a Contract Negotiator. When the kids were gone, I sold everything, bought a sailboat and sailed the Pacific Ocean solo. Sailed to several countries, learned 2 languages, and learned about different cultures. Did scuba diving, deep sea fishing and experienced one hurricane. No TV's or phones for 5 years. Returned to the U.S. and went back to college to brush up on the law.

-Moved to Reno, Nevada and bought a new home and worked as a Puchasing Manager for a Division of Lockheed.  Rented my house and moved to Denver for 6 years. Didn't like the blizzards so I moved to Folsom, California where I was a contract negotiator at an aerospace company, and was involved in putting "Curosity" on Mars. 

Retired early and traveled. Moved back to Reno August, 2015.  Been fixing my house after 16 years of renting. I have a friend and he likes to fish (I catch a lot of trout), hike, and enjoy the outdoors, so now I work on my house in my spare time, enjoy life to the fullest, and enjoy my 5 grandkids.

See you all at the reunion.

In 1967 I married Larry Weber.  We had a son, William, and a daughter, Barbara.

In 1991 I married Merlin Helmbolt.

In 1993 I moved to Princeton as my mother was sick with cancer. She passed away in 1994.

I worked in Anoka for a short time in 1994 and then got a job at Fairview Clinic in Princeton.

I am retired and living in St. Cloud now.

I went in the Army, served in Vietnam. Came home and got married to my high school sweetheart, Charlene Kobbervig. We have two children, Tammy and Dan, and three grandchildren. Originally worked at Federal Cartridge, then became an electrician working for Rum River Electric for several years; finally in 1979 qualified for the Minneapolis Fire Department and worked there until retiring in 2002.

Presently enjoy hunting, golfing, and attending grandkids activities.

My most important achievement in life is not owning a computer or cell phone.

My life has been a mixture of blessing and challenges, mostly blessings.  I spent 4 years at Bethel University and 2 years at the University of St. Catherine in St. Paul.  I received my RN degree with a minor in art education.  My husband, Joe, and I just celebrated our 42nd anniversary.  We have a son, 2 daughters, 2 grandsons and 2 granddaughters.  We love spending time with all of them!

In 1999 I was diagnosed with cancer.  It was a difficult time for me with surgery, chemo and radiation treatments.  With the loving support from by husband, family and friends and a strong faith in God,  I am now a cancer thriver not just a suvivor.  

At the present time I work as a nurse with my husband in our Gryskiewicz Twin Cities Cosmetic Surgery offices in Edina and Burnsville.  We have been blessed to travel nationally and internationally as Joe speaks for the Plastic Surgery Society.  I really have had a "fairy tale life"  thanks to my best friend and husband, and to God who has blessed us greatly!  

I look forward to seeing everyone at the reunion.  Thanks to all the reunion planners.  What a great web site!                        

After graduation I went to college at North Central Bible College and graduated in 1971.  While there I met my husband, Graham Lee and we were married in 1969.  Graham was from Wales, U.K. and his parents were missionaries in South Africa.  We eventually joined his parents in their work in South Africa in 1974. We also traveled extensively in a music ministry.  We spent almost 15 years there and our 2 children were born in South Africa.  We returned to the USA in 1988 and Graham died of cancer not long after.  

I remarried in 1996 and Gerard and I have lived in the Isanti area since.  We have a hobby farm and both love nature and biking.  I work with a church where I am involved with leading music and I play the piano. I enjoy quilting, handwork, and gardening. I have 6 grandchildren. The oldest is 19 and in college.

Fortunate to obtain college admission, was hired upon graduation by a federal regulatory agency.  Did some twenty field assignments for this agency lasting from four to seven months in cities throughout the U.S.  It was quite a learning experience.  Became part of agency management and was reluctantly transferred from the Bay Area, California to Washington, D.C. in 1980.  Left the agency in 2003 after 33 years of service, the last 23 as a natural gas and oil pipeline specialist.  Went into business for myself providing mostly tax and financial consultative services as a licensed CPA.

Met my wife, Joan, a St. Paul native, after moving to Northern Virginia.  We both do considerable volunteer work mostly on behalf of our church finding it most fulfilling.  Most of our best friends are also involved in this faith-based work.  I'm an active investor and challenge myself to try to match the professional portfolio managers.  Continue to closely follow the Minnesota Twins from afar.  Both my wife and I see the need to soon completely withdraw from the compensated services world and are in the process of trying to discern what's next for our lives.

Looking forward with considerable anticipation and interest to the Reunion.

Went to Bermidji State, played football 4 years, graduated in 1970 with a teaching degree. Couldn't find a teaching job so I joined our family business, Anderson Equipment, and have worked there ever since. Married my wife Cherlye (from Nebraska) had three children. Billy, Bjorn, and Katie. Enjoying retirement, especially hunting and fishing.

I graduated from St. Cloud School of Nursing in June 1969.Started working in Intensive Care where I worked for 36 years. During this time I was very active in the local and national critical care associations. I served as president twice to the local chapter (Central MN Chapter) organization. In 2005, I helped build the Electric Medical Record System for the St. Cloud Hospital. This system was then sold to 8 smaller hospitals. In 2012, I retired from St., Cloud Hospital after 43 years. 

I married the love of my life (John Selander) in October 1969. We farmed in Benton County for 46 years. We had dairy and hog. We enjoyed country living. In 2005 we moved to an apartment in Foley. Our son, daughter-in-law and 3 grandsons now live on the farm. We have two adopted children, Matthew, age 43, and Jennifer, age 42. Matthew and his wife, Gretchen, have 3 sons, Charlie (16), Christian (14) and Levi (12). Jennifer and finance Keith have daughter Hannah (8) and 2 step-sons, Derek (24) and Tyler (22). 

I enjoy reading, knitting, gardening, and spending time with friends and family. John and I have traveled to all 50 states.

A lot has happened in 50 years!  Marriage to David Jackson, and living in the Princeton/Milaca area most of those years.  Our 2 children graduated from Princeton Schools and are married and we have 3 grandchildren.  After employment from Mille Lacs County after 35 years and selling our printing business, I continue as organist and Treasurer for our church and enjoy quilting and volunteering at American Legion Auxiliary and keep busy with our home, family and enjoy time at our cabin on Little Elk Lake. We have enjoyed traveling to Florida to visit family, and went to Hawaii in 2014 for our 45th wedding anniversary.

After graduation, I worked at Fingerhut in Princeton for a short time, and then moved to St Paul with a friend from Big Lake, and worked at Central Warehouse Co, just off University, as an order typist, filing, teletype, etc for several months, until my room mate got married, I was scared to death of being in the city alone, so went back home - by then, my family had moved to Elk River, after the Sherburne Wildlife bought out all the homes - I worked there for a while, lived at home, then got a 1960 Mercury Monterrey, baby blue, with a white vinyl top - that thing was my 'Baby', and it was a lot of car for me...loved it.  My family moved back to Princeton by 1968, I worked there, for a place that made supplies for the military - I then worked in Milaca, (Milaca Mills),staying during the week, then home on weekends.  It was during that time I met my husband - we were married in 1969.  

Our daughter Gina was born in 1970; our son Mark in 1971, and 7 years later, 1977, our daughter Wendi was born - That took care of any thoughts I might have of going on to other education.  In 1978, I went to work as a cashier for 'National' Grocery, stayed there for the next 7 years, then landed a job as a printer for Gene's Studio, in Mora...that was 1985.  I worked for them off and on until 2002, when he retired and sold the studio.  That was the end of my working days, just in time to be 'Home Alone', all three kids were on there own by then - I was a grandmother by age 38.  To date, we have 9 Grandchildren - Tiffany (27); Heather (25); Robert (24); Jennifer (22); Mark (21); Levi (20); Jozette (21); Wyatt (16); and Anna (14) - and Heather and Levi have made us Great-Grandparents of Ty and Kayden.

Our three kids don't live so far away, but don't see them as often as I'd like - Gina lives in Princeton - she works in the Photo lab at Coborn's; Mark lives in Isanti and works for Classic Construction; and Wendi is in St Cloud, is an Independent hairstylist, working at the Loft Salon & Spa on St. Germaine - Franz retired in 2011 from Classic Construction, in East Bethel - where our son Mark works now, and also his son Mark - Our lives are simple, quiet, and revolve around our family as much as possible - It's good, we've been 'blessed', but not 'spoiled'.

5 months after graduation, I was drafted into the Army. I served for two years and spent one of them in Vietnam. Upon my return, I settled in Denver, Co. for the next 18 years. I married in 1973 and my son Jason was born in 1974. I started my own framing construction company and built houses up until I got divorced and moved to California in 1985. I remained in the housing industry up until I retired in 2009. I met my wife Janara in California and we have been together for almost 25 years now. I have two step daughters, Sarah, who just graduated from Sacramento State with a degree in History and is now in the credentialing program to become a teacher, and O'Connor who is finishing her degree at Sacramento State. My son Jason lives near Nashville, TN. and works for a large company (BASF) at the Nissan plant in Smyrna, TN. My wife Janara still works in the insurance field and I enjoy retirement. I keep myself busy golfing, kayaking, bowling, hiking, snow skiing and loving life.

Jim and I were married in 1965.  We celebrated our 50th anniversary this summer.  We still reside in Princeton, at least some of the time.  We also have a place on Mille Lacs Lake and winter in Mesa AZ.  We have a daughter, Kim, who is a dental hygienist and our son, Brian, is a CPA.  We also have 4 grandsons and 2 granddaughters.  I worked part-time when the kids were little and in 1981 I went to work full-time for a local CPA firm as a staff accountant.  Retired from there in Dec. 2007.  We have done some traveling, mostly road trips and in Sept. 2001 we traveled to Ireland.

I enjoy reading, embroidery and crocheting.  This past winter I got involved with a group of ladies playing Mah Jonng.

I graduated from St. Cloud State in the spring of 1970 with a double major, Math and Special Education.  I started teaching in the White Bear Lake Minnesota school district in the fall of 1970 as a  math teacher.  I met Mary, my future wife, in 1977.  Mary was a Spanish teacher in White Bear. (What are the odds of a Math teacher and Spanish teacher getting together?  Has it ever happened before?)

We have two lovely daughters, Analisa (1981) and Kristina (1984).   Analisa lives in White Bear Lake and Kristina in Los Angeles (no snow).  I retired from the White Bear school system in the spring of 2004 - 34 years of teaching was sufficient. Mary was still teaching, so I had to find another job.  I started teaching Calculus at the University of St. Thomas, St. Paul Campus in the fall of 2004.  This was a good change from high school; no principals, no parents, no conferences etc. — all you had to do was teach.  I finally saw reality approaching and decided to retire from St. Thomas in the spring of 2012.  Mary also retired in 2012, so we now spend our time traveling, going to the cabin and relaxing.  

I have two main hobbies, wood working and collecting records (mostly the 45s, oldies but goodies) and juke boxes.  We live in Forest Lake MN. Stop by.

High lights and low spots. 66-70 USAF. 71-74 St Could State on the GI Bill degree in public accounting. 74 move to Mpls. and start at the Firm. 76 pass the CPA examine become Certified. 77 Julie, my college sweetheart, finally gives in and we are married, her maiden name is Lentner and she was from Foley. 82 become a partner in the Firm, got my Masters Degree at the U of M (Go Gophers). 85 adopt our first child Tommy. 87 pallbearer at Bill Steadman's funeral. 88 my sister passes away. 92 adopt our second child Jennifer from the Ukraine. 1992- 2010 Julie is working, I am still with the Firm and we are trying to raise our children as best we can. During the later part of those 18 years Julie's parents, her sister and my parents pass away. Sad moments for Julie and I but no different than what those of you reading this have experienced.

In July of 2011 I experienced a life changing event we get our first dog. May 31, 2014 I retire from the Firm. The reason I chose that date to retire is mandatory retirement was at 66. My 66th birthday was the day after May 31. Obviously I was not looking forward to retiring and I had many excuses as to why I did not retire sooner. The real reason was, and I know this will come as a shock to anyone still reading this, I am one of the few remaining people who does not embrace change in their life. Retirement has been wonderful because it forced me to change. My brother still has the farm I grew up on. I own my Grandfathers forty acres. Now gone full circle, back helping my brother farm. I do golf and fish but not so much that anyone would notice. My one serious hobby is bench rest shooting and by default you then wind up getting into reloading. I shoot at the Minnetonka Game and Fish Club which is located in Ramsey. Princeton's skeet team practices at the Club. It's possible one of your grandchildren may be on that team. 

I like Jimmy Buffett's "He Went to Paris". One of the lyrics in that song describes how my life has been so up to this point: 

"some of it's magic, some of it's tragic, but I had a good life all the way"

Let’s see, I attended St. Cloud State fall of 1966.  Went for a year and a half; college and I did not get along well.  Joined the United States Army in January 1968, visited Vietnam in June of '68 and came home June 1969.  Decided to go back to college at St. Cloud State University and see if I had learned anything in 3 years.  It was a much better experience and I enjoyed college; graduated 1974.  Married my first wife in August 1974.  Started work in the twin cities, moved to Fairmont, Minnesota and worked at Midland Cooperatives for 3 years, then to Fairmont Railway Equipment for another 4 years before moving back to the cities.  Got a divorce and two years later met Carlene and worked several places before working at the University of Minnesota. Retired at age 55 (they called it a layoff, but since I never worked again, I called it retirement). Move back to Princeton in 2011 and built a home next to where I grew up.  Carlene and I are enjoying our retirement in Princeton.

I enlisted in the Army Oct. 66; got out July 69 after 25 months in Vietnam. Worked for O.G Hanson Concrete Products a number of years. Went to Alaska prospecting for gold; located claims on Younger Creek near Boundary in the Forty Mile Mining Dist. Worked that summers until '76 when I stayed for good. I lived for a while in Juneau and did some prospecting work out of there. Moved back to Boundary and worked for 'Action Jackson' Corbett; I assisted him in running that business. Began leasing the claims in the early 80's to miners with heavy equipment.

I just relinquished title to the claims back to the State a couple years ago. The greatest treasure I got from that ground wasn't gold, but the gift of salvation I received in August 1982. I'm a 'born again' Christian, a member of Plack Road Baptist Church in North Pole. I was called to preach in '85; earned a Bachelors Degree in Theology; taught Sunday School 20 years; lectured in our Bible Institute; preach weekly and do counseling & Bible studies with inmates at Fairbanks Correctional Center; do a monthly service at an assisted care facility and the Fairbanks Pioneer Home. I ran the warehouse for Crescent Electric Supply for almost 16 years before I retired last March.

Attended Bemidji Sate College 1966-70, BA degree in accounting. Drafted into the Army August 1970. Served until February 1972 (18 months & one day).

Working in accounting for 39 years, mostly in metro area. Retired in March 2011. Have been township treasurer for 20 years, am currently our church's treasurer and stock shelves at Menards (a no stress job). Married Sandy Stay in 1973. Have three children and nine grandchildren.

After living most of my life in Wisconsin and Minnesota I moved to Reno, Nevada in August of 2013. I have both my sister, Kathy(and her husband) and my daughter (Ali, 24 years old) near me in Reno. 6 months after I moved, Ali and her boyfriend relocated here. 

I have a BS degree in education and taught special education for 16 years. In the early 80's, I had an opportunity to make a career change and helped to start a direct sales Jewelry company. From there I went on to become the VP of Sales of a women's clothing company. I've had the good fortune to be able to do a lot of traveling during my adult life. I traveled once a week for many years training our sales people--mostly in the US, but also Canada, England and Japan. As VP of Sales, I had the opportunity to enjoy many Incentive trips outside of the USA as well as personal travel--France, Italy, England, Scotland, Ireland, Germany Belgium, Holland, Hungary, Austria to name a few. 

Currently I am semi-retired--working part time to supplement my retirement and allow me to play with friends!

After high school I went to St Cloud State for 2 years.  My first job was with Prudential Ins for 11 years.  Ken and I married June 23, 1973 and we bought a house in Brooklyn Park. December of '77 we adopted a baby girl from Korea followed by 3 &  year old boys and infant girl from Korea at once in May of '79.  At the same time, Ken changed jobs and two weeks after the adoption we moved into an unfinished house we were building on Blue Lake (between Princeton and Zimmerman) because our other house sold. Many challenging times! I stayed home with kids and worked seasonal jobs as they got older.  When college bills came I worked full time again in Elk River.

 Just as the youngest was graduating college, our oldest son was getting divorced and moved back in with a baby. Our grandson had been at our house much of the time since he was 2 months old so when he moved back I went back to stay at home child care. This temporary agreement lasted 10 years! He married someone with 2 boys and moved out but we still have our grandson every other weekend.

Our other son also married, had a son and divorced.

We have a daughter who is a chef at Disney World in FL and a daughter who is a TV news reporter in San Diego, CA so we travel to each coast at least once a year.

In 2005 I had breast cancer surgery, chemo and radiation.  All seems well now.

I did volunteer wildlife rehab for many years.  Ken started street rodding classic cars so we've spent years traveling all over to shows and trips with them.  I am now enjoying retirement and a house to ourselves.

Spent a career in marketing consulting to Fortune 500 companies, primarily in advertising and promotion agencies. Raised two great kids: Ben is a mechanical engineer in Chicago, married, with a newborn, and Katie is a photographer in the Twin Cities, a member of the Edina Police Reserve, and also working for the South Metro Public Safety Training Facility. 

I was divorced in 2001, after many years. I now live in Savage, MN with my wife, Cole, and all the other savages.  She operates her hair styling business in Bloomington, and is very involved in genealogy. I currently own and operate a coupon publication that serves Bloomington and Richfield.  I played in a rock band for many years but now just occasionally sit in with friends playing here and there around town. I enjoy spending time with grandchildren. Life is good.

After graduation, I worked some odd jobs in the area for a couple of years.  I was drafted into the Army on December, 1968.  I was given the opportunity to try out for flight school and became a helicopter pilot which I truly enjoyed doing.   I flew combat missions and resupply missions in the Central Highlands in Viet Nam from January - December 1970. It was an experience I will never forget.   

After the service, I returned to Princeton and met a gal (Carol) from Cambridge.  We were married in September 1972, and have two children and have been married for 43 years.  We live on a farm between Cambridge and Princeton.  Our son is an electrician and lives in Forest Lake, MN.  Our daughter is a dental hygienist and lives in Stanchfield, MN. with her husband and two kids (ages 7 and 8).  We are fortunate that the grandkids live close as they are so much fun to spend time with.

I drove semi for Richards Oil out of Savage, MN. for a couple years after returning from Viet Nam.  I worked for Midland in Princeton as well as did farming on the side.  After that I worked in construction for H&S in Anoka, hauled bulk milk for First District out of Litchfield, and drove semi for a few years for Bridgeman out of Mora.  Finally in 1990, I started working for Tiller Corporation (Barton Sand and Gravel) and worked there for 20 years and retired in 2010.  Since retiring I have enjoyed doing some woodworking, golfing, fishing and helping watch the grandchildren.  I enjoy every minute of my retirement.  Life is good.

After a couple false starts, Jim and I married, adopted each other's kids and had a couple more to cement the family. After 42 years of marriage, five kids, 10 grandkids and five great-grandkids we are still going strong. Keeping up with that brood, we have no choice! Looking forward to seeing everyone.

After high school, I worked at Fingerhut for five months, then moved to Minneapolis and worked at Honeywell. 

I met my husband Dave and get married in 1970. We moved to Big Lake in 1973, then started a family and had three girls - Jody, age 42; Annette, age 39; and Heidi, age 37. Now we have 4 grandchildren.

I was a stay at home Mom and also did some daycare. 

I went back to work in 1985 at various jobs - mostly in food service. My husband and I retired in 2004. Dave retired from Graco and I retired from Cargill in Monticello. We moved to Princeton in 2004.

Dave and I are active in our church and also do volunteer work for World Renew which is disaster response whenever needed. We love to travel and go south in the winter to Texas, Arizona, Florida and Golf Shores, Alabama. 

We keep very busy these (retirement) years. Looking forward to the reunion. 

I was in active duty Army for 12 years. Then went to work at the V.A. Hospital in St. Cloud, completing 20 years total in the military. Finished my high school in the military. Went on to NCO academy. Now I'm a grandpa playing rock 'n roll music. Married for 23 years. 5 kids, and 6 grandchildren. I thank God every day for our life together.

After High School I went to cosmetology school for 2 years.  I Got married at the age of 19 to my forever partner.  I've been married for 50 years to my husband. I have two children. Our son Richard Baumgartner JR  attended college at Boeing Aircraft Manufacturing after High School. Our daughter Kristine Samuelson is employed as the kitchen supervisor for Big Lake Public Schools. Kris's son Kody (Our Only Grandchild) graduated High School in 2015 and is currently attending Kaplan University for his online degree in Business Managment and Administration. He also works full time at Jaguar Land Rover Minneapolis.

My husband Richard Baumgartner and I have owned 3 of our own bar and restaurant businesses over the past 50 years in Becker, Orrock and Santiago MN. We retired and sold our last business in 1997 and built a new home in Big Oaks Estates in Becker, MN where we currently live. We enjoy traveling and going places with our friends. When home my husband Richard (Bud) and our grandson(Kody) enjoy fishing, hunting and working on our car collection.

Three years in the Army; 30 years as a welder; eleven years as a designer in engineering department designing aircraft refuelers and ethanol handling equipment. Lived in the same place since 1966!

My sister Nancy, husband Dave and me at niece Jessie Odegard's wedding in VT.  

Fate knows where you are going, but it is up to you to drive there.  – Michelle Keesling

When I graduated from the University of Minnesota, the placement rep asked - “Where do you want to go, Minneapolis or St Paul?” I said: “I want to go to Guatemala.”  “Is that South or North of Minneapolis?”  I said:  “3000 miles south.”  I taught K-adults, all subjects and English.  It gave me a language and cultural experience that was useful for what lay ahead.

My career path eventually led me to my favorite and most rewarding work in Appreciative Inquiry, which is a practice that focuses on identifying personal and professional strengths where people find what works and what people do well.  Relationships and communication improve dramatically. I am an independent consultant and balance just enough work with the right amount of family, fun and travel.    

You don’t choose your family.  They are God’s gift to you as you are to them.  – Desmond Tutu

I married David Wood 25 years ago and joined a wonderfully diverse family.  Dave’s teenagers were soon grown children and starting families of their own. His eldest son married a fellow academic from Turkey so we visit Istanbul to see them and our grandson.  Other family members are a bit closer living in Connecticut and North Carolina.  My brother Kevin has remained stateside in Minnesota and sister Nancy in California.  Family reunions bring together a joyful blend of lifestyles and plenty of lively discussion.  We all get along.  I wish the same for our country and the world.  Don’t you?

I value Kevin and Nancy, as we grow older and care for elders and experience the loss of loved ones.

Who knew Alan Deglmann would grow up to be an accountant with McGladrey and be my dad’s accountant!  Yep.

How far you go in life depends on your being tender with the young, compassionate with the aged, sympathetic with the striving and tolerant of the weak and strong.  Because someday in your life you will have been all of these. - George Washington Carver    

Two highlights

·      In 1998 my husband Dave volunteered to mentor for a 15-year-old boy who, with coaching went on to college and nursing school.  Mark and his wife are nurses, and have 2 children.  We attended their wedding and see them regularly.

·      Remember the Kosovo refugees?  In 1999, Dave called the 800# on TV and invited refugees to live with us!  We hosted two families for six weeks each.  Dave cooked, took them for medical services, jobs and found apartments. Both families went back to Kosovo.  We recently learned that one guest, Adem, lives nearby with his wife and 3 children.  We found them on Facebook and had a great visit.

“I didn't come here of my own accord, and I can't leave that way.

Whoever brought me here will have to take me home." – Rumi

It will be good to be back where we started.  See you in September! 

In the fall after graduation, I enrolled at St. Cloud Area Vocational school in Drafting and Design Technology and was into the second year (fall of 67) when I got my draft notice. Decided I would rather swim with sharks than dodge bullets so I enlisted in the Navy where I spent 3 years, 9 months and 23 days as a Radioman. This was the beginning of my travel adventures. Caribbean first, then on to the Mediterranean Sea where I saw Spain, France, Italy and Greece. After returning to the US, I met my wife, Debbie, in September of 1970, proposed in November and we were married on January 2, 1971. Left 29 days later for another trip to the Mediterranean. Debbie did join me in Greece 3 months later for our second honeymoon in Athens.   

After the Navy I worked in construction before deciding to return to Minnesota and completed the Drafting & Design program. That winter in Minnesota was enough to convince me (and my wife) that we wanted to live in a warmer climate. Moved back to Jacksonville Florida for a year then we moved to Atlanta Georgia where we spent 39 years and our two children were born. January of 1980 I accepted Jesus Christ as my Savior and not long after my life’s work took a changed. I went to work for a trade association, first selling their insurance programs and eventually becoming the VP of Insurance. With this job Debbie and I were afforded the opportunity to travel. Scotland, England, France, Portugal, Italy, Mexico, Bermuda as well as a couple of trips to Canada, Hawaiian Islands and a few other assorted Caribbean Islands. I only lack seeing eleven of the United States but that is not a big bucket list item for me.

Debbie was in a bad car accident in 2004. Came out with only a badly damaged knee, but that was enough to know that we would not be hiking the Appalachian Trail anytime soon. So, we got into snorkeling. Spend a lot of time in the water searching for that next fish or coral or turtle or whatever which has taken us to several more Caribbean islands. Our next big adventure is in April of 2016, we are traveling to the Maldives, in the Indian Ocean, where we will spend half of our time on a live-aboard ship, snorkeling morning, noon and night. We are excited. I have more pictures of grand children than fish, but not by much.

As I mentioned before, we have two children. Son Timothy Jarrett is married with 2-1/2 children. Two precious girls with an unknown in the oven. Due next March. He and his wife live in Senoia Georgia, which is a big movie/TV show production town. My daughter Leah Marie is married with 3 children. Two boys and a little girl. She and her hubby live in Dothan Alabama, which is part of the reason Debbie and I recently relocated to Dothan Alabama.

I am still working on a part time basis. The Good Lord opened some doors for me a couple of years ago and I began selling Medicare Supplement and Medicare Advantage plans (anyone heard of these??). It is a great part-time job. I work very hard from October 1^st through December 7^th and then do what I want for the rest of the year. Grandkids and my travel advisor (Debbie) manage to keep me busy.

I would have never believed all the places I have been and things I have seen since walking out of the doors at Princeton High. Life has been very good and I am truly blessed. 

After twenty years of various jobs and raising children, I started college at the age of 39. I graduated with a B.A. from State Cloud State (as it was called then) and a Master’s Degree from the University of Minnesota, Humphrey Institute. From there I worked as a planner for the City of Minnetonka and then for the last 20 years for the City of Anoka, the last 10+ as the Planning Director. During that time, I served for several years as the President of the Minnesota Chapter of the American Planning Association which allowed me to travel for national conferences. I am now officially retired but work half-time for the City of Anoka on an annual contract – and still serve as the Planning Director. My interests include my grandkids, writing, blogging, genealogy, photography, and history. My husband Jim and I have four children, thirteen grandkids and 3 great-grandkids. 

I was born and raised by Scandinavian immigrant parents (father/Swedish, mother/Finnish) on a farm in Benton County, so I don't have "deep roots" in Princeton or Princeton schools.  Grades 1-9th I attended schools in Benton County.  In the early 1960s my mother, then a widow, decided to sell the farm.  In 1963 she bought a house on Silver Lake Road, and we moved to Princeton.  I was the youngest and only child still living at home.  In 1963 I started 10th grade at PHS.  

After graduating from PHS, I attended St. Cloud State College and graduated in 1970 with a Bachelor of Arts degree.  As you know, I also married PHS classmate Richard (Dick) Miller.  After several months of searching for spiritual truth, I accepted Jesus Christ as my Savior in 1972 while watching Billy Graham on TV.  Being a "born again" Christian gave me great peace and joy.  

Dick and I were blessed with 2 sons and 1 daughter.  I was a stay-at-home mom and thoroughly enjoyed volunteering at church and my children's school.  In 1987 Dick's employer in Minneapolis offered him a job as plant manager at their new building in Pueblo, CO.  We had vacationed a couple times in Colorado and the offer was appealing.  We sold our house in MN, and they moved us to Colorado Springs in 1988.  Unfortunately we divorced several years later.  Our divorce was final on our 27th wedding anniversary!  

Life is good in Colorado, and God is faithful.  My grandchildren live in Colorado, and time spent with them is precious.  I also enjoy working in my yard, church activities, hiking, china painting, ballroom dancing, baking yeast breads--and Cooper my Boston Terrier. I'm a volunteer for the El Paso County GOP during Presidential elections, so be sure to vote "Trump" in November! 

Graduated from the University of Northern Colorado winter of 73, came back to mn, had a year in an office down town Mpls, then 18 months as a mortgage banker, and switched to real estate.  Since 79 have owned Orion Resort Sales, brokering resorts and campgrounds.  Along the way we have owned a couple and sold the last resort in January of 2014.  We spend the summers in Bayport, MN and winters in Peoria, AZ.  My wife Pat and I are on our second marriage since 98, both semi retired; we have 3 children, 4 grandkids, and 1 great granddaughter.  We are in good health and enjoy life.

After graduating with the class of 1966 I married my partner in life on July 23, 1966 and moved to Litchfield, MN, where my husband taught for one year.  Then with a career change for Roy we moved to Minneapolis.  We had two children: Angela born in August 1967, and then Anthony in January 1969.  When the children were in elementary school I took a position within School Dist. 196 as support staff at which I stayed 18 years.  When our first grandchild was born I left my job to be a full time grandmother.  We have a total of 7 grandchildren ranging in age 25 down to 13.  These kids have given us the joy of different sporting events, etc., and certainly have kept us busy!  We experienced a great loss when our son died of ALS in 2005, but are blessed with the 3 boys he left behind.  I am enjoying "the golden years" very much and seem to keep very busy.  This is a year of milestones for me with my 50th class reunion and celebrating our 50th wedding anniversary (WOW)!  See you all in September!

I am in Florida, far away from high school and old friends. I am still a registered nurse and plan to retire some day soon although I love it too much to quit.  Big news is I am a first time Grandmother to little Josephine Emily Kelly, 6 months old April 7th and she lives in California too far away.

Retired from home building (Ziegler Construction now Ziegler Custom Homes) and land development (got out a little too late). Married twice 1)Shari Freitag divorced 1988 2)Diane Sachs from Elk River married 1998. Have three children Michelle, Jennifer and Michael and 10 grandchildren plus 2 stepdaughters and one step grandson. Presently live in rural Zimmerman about 10 miles from where I grew up. Enjoy golfing and chasing around after grandkids.

Born in 1948, a harbinger of Spring

Attended Princeton Public Schools K-12

Attended Concordia College in Moorhead 1966-1967, transferred to the U of M Minneaoplis/St. Paul 1968-1971. Graduated with a B.S. in Home Ec./Business

Married 1970

Worked for Dayton's, Stevenson's, and Ossell and Johnson 1971-1978

Children: son 1979, son 1982

Divorced 1988

Began working for the City of Minneapolis Assessor's Dept. in 1988.

Remarried 1994

Left City of Minneapolis in 2001

Moved to Arkansas in 2002 to build our retirement home on 80 beautiful wooded acres in the Ozark Mountains near the Buffalo National River.

Joined the staff of Ozark Mountain SD-St. Joe campus as a paraprofessional with responsibility for special needs students in 2005.

Widowed in 2007

Retired from Ozark Mountain SD in 2010

2010 to the present - finishing and maintaining my home and 80 acres as well as exploring my creativity.

My husband passed away in 2005. We have one son, Dave, who works in St. Cloud at the mall. I am living on the farm that my husband grew up on for 45 years.

Retired from Allied Blacktop 3 years ago. We moved to milaca 13 years ago after selling supper club. Still farming and selling equipment. Been married 43 years. Have 4 children 10 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren.

After high shool I joined the Navy in Feb of '67. Served 3 years, 4 months, and 29 days. Spent July of '69 to July of '70 in Viet Nam. Saw some stuff, did some stuff and still carry some stuff. Got back to the world and remet the little girl down the street and chased her till she caught me. Got married June 5th, '71. Jeannie and I had our daughter Sunny Jo on Saturday and the next Saturday was our 16th wedding aniversary. Our son, Zach, was born in Jan. of '91. Both kids are the brightest, best looking, successful etc, much like all of yours. I paid the light bill and kept the kids fed the 1st 20 years by doing cement work, then I worked for the cable tv company in Cambridge for 20 plus more. Always a blue collar worker. Always working with my hands, alot outdoors. Retired  now for a couple years.

Now I spend my time helping at the Princeton Food Shelf about 8 to as many hours as needed. I also raise a big 2 acre garden for them. About an acre of sweet corn, 150 tomato plants, 50 cabbage, 100 pepper plants, you know, way more than I can keep weeded but very gratifying. My go-to lake around here is Spectacle Lake and I hammer the bass and sunfish about twice a week, so not all work. I've figured out the secret of life, at least for me: it's to give more than you take. If we all could do that, the class of '66 would leave quite a legacy. Hoping all is good with all of you and God Bless.

When we started first grade, I believe the gym on the north side of the school was brand new.  There was a grassy area on the west side of the gym that had a pipe barrier to keep kids off the grass.  I noticed big kids sitting on that pipe and wanted to be like the big kids.  I climbed up on that pipe but was such a little twerp I couldn't touch the ground so I had to balance.  I lost my balance.  Suppose I could fall backwards into that grassy area?  Nope.  Went forward and broke my fall on the concrete sidewalk with my forehead.  I'm sure I got a concussion.  In fact I think I just got over that concussion,  yesterday or the day before, can't remember.  

I only remember very important things from school.  Like guys picking up Mr. Noonan's little car and putting wheels on the curb at the old school.  Then those fine lunches in junior and senior year.  Would go to Rieman's bakery for two glazed donuts and a Coke. No wonder I'm diabetic.   On the days I was flush with cash it was the Torch for a greasy hamburger, a Coke and two cigarettes.   Not much I didn't know in those days. 

At the ripe age of 35 my first and only child was born.  Five years later my son's mother and I decided to get married.  Yep, forgot to get married first.   Eight years later we decided that married life really wasn't my bag, so we disolved that.  

I still live in Princeton.  As a matter of fact, I lived in the same house until I was 45.  I forgot to put away any money when I was young so I still work full-time.  Besides, with my lifestyle who'd have thought I'd live this long?

Now for an old age dilemma:  I wrote a note that says "big party" on the top.  I think I forgot to write date and place.  Just hope I don't end up at Bennie Meyer's tree farm looking for Jim Edmonds and Richard Wallace.   That was a long walk 50 years ago; can't imagine how long it would be today.

In closing, some Pete smartguy philosophy.   I've already grown old, but I flat out refuse to grow up.

In the fall of 1966 I started employment at Northwestern Bell Telephone Company in downtown Minneapolis where over the course of 6 years I held 5 positions, ending in management. 

In 1970, I married Jerry Pollema, a 1960 graduate of Milaca High School, who I met in Minneapolis. In 1972 our first of two sons was born. In 1974 our second son was born. During this time we lived in Bloomington, MN. In 1977, we moved to the Milaca (Pease) area where my husband started dairy farming with his brother. In 1978 I began working for a local paint and wallcovering store in Milaca. I worked there until 1984 when I developed a seizure disorder. In 1991 Jerry stopped farming and again became a floor covering installer (the job he had when we lived in the metro.)

Our oldest son is a dairy farmer northwest of Long Prairie, MN. He and his wife have three children, ages 24, 22 and 18. Their daughter was married in March of 2015 and they had a baby girl March of this year, so, yes, we are great-grandparents. 

Our other son works in the medical field in Mankato, MN. He and his wife have two boys, ages 10 and 6.

I spend my time these last few years enjoying the grandchildren and I also began quilting, crocheting and knitting. Jerry says quilters are funny people as they buy fabric, take it home, cut it apart, and then sew it back together again. He also says that if a mistake cannot be seen from the back of a galloping horse, it is not a mistake.

Worked the summer at Fingerhut with Mike Heymer after graduation, then enlisted with the Marines in October of 1966. Spent a year in California, then Vietnam. After my service, I goofed off for about 6 months, then I worked with my dad, a carpenter. Some misc. jobs, then vocational school in St. Cloud. Did business administration and accounting at St. Cloud. Did carpentry for most of my career, with some truck driving on the side. Kandy and I have been together since 1994, and married since 2001. A total of 9 kids and 15 grandkids. One great grandchild on the way!

I am retired after teaching for 35 years.  I taught in Red Lake Falls, Mn, St. Bens College in St Cloud and for 31 years in Bemidji.  Mostly elementary 3rd grade to 6th grade and one year of in-school suspension for 9th thru 12th graders.

I was married in 1973 and have 2 sons. One is a pharmacist in Bemidji with one daughter. The other owns a resturant in Bemidji, Qdoba a Mexican grill, and he has 3 daughters and 1 son.

I am Minnesota State Babe Ruth Commissioner for the Cal Ripken Division (12 year old and under) and have been for the last 8 years. I am also treasurer for Bemidji Youth League Baseball for the last 29 years.  I took a baseball team of 12 year olds to the Cal Ripken 12 yo World Series in 2008 after winning state and regional titles.

I like to fish, play some golf, read and have grandpa day with my grandkids every Wednesday.

I married Rachael Daiker in 1967. We had 2 sons, and now have 5 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren (just born this year). I spent 20 years in the U.S. Air Force. I was fortunate to have visited and experienced 10 countries. I also got to fly in the backseat of an F-16 Fighter Jet where I experienced going faster than the speed of sound and pulled 9 G's. I was selected to represent the USA in an International aircraft competition held in Scotland. After I retired from the service we moved back to Minnesota. I was warehouse supervisor for Nott Company until I retired. We resided in Elk River where we live today.

Following graduation I attended Bemidji State College. A year later I took a break and was drafted in May of 1968.  Uncle Sam decided I should spend some time in Vietnam.  Once discharged from the Army I returned to Bemidji and graduated in 1973.   In between this time frame, I was married to Laurel Filip from Angus , Minnesota. We moved to Baraboo, Wisconsin after graduation where I worked for Sauk County.  After 10 years in Baraboo we moved to Durand, Wisconsin and have been there ever since.  

I was the Director of the Human Services Department until retiring in 2013.  We have 3 amazing daughters, 4 grandchildren with number 5 due in late September. Spending time with our grandkids continues to be very special time for us. We enjoy our cabin near Birchwood, Wisconsin during the summer months and southern Texas in the winter. After spending 40+ years in Wisconsin I have become an Packer (Go Pack Go) and Badger fan. Retirement has been wonderful.

Worked at R.W. Builders for 38 years as carpenter, then superintendent for 15 years. Retired at 62. Have been married 50 years come this June 11. I have two children; a boy, and a girl. I have 4 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. I was a grandpa at 34.

Following graduation, I attended college, dropped out after one year and joined the Army.  I served two years, seven and one-half months, receiving an early discharge upon my return from Vietnam in 1970.  I re-entered college again and after another year dropped out to purchase the A&W Restaurant in Princeton.  Sold the restaurant after six years and went to work for the Soo Line Railroad.  Worked ten years for the railroad before the Soo Line bought the Milwaukee Road from bankruptcy court.  The judge ruled the Soo Line could not layoff any Milwaukee Road employees, so the Soo Line laid off about two-thirds of the Soo Line employees – including me.  I bounced around a couple of jobs including Norwest Bank (Wells Fargo) and Copy Duplicating Products (now ICON) and finally settled at the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs in 1994.  I retired in 2010 as the Information Technology Director due to a service-connected disability.

I first met my wife Jane in 1974.  We started dating in 1977, got engaged in 1978, and married in 1979.  She has been by my side in supporting my endeavors every step through life.  She is truly an angel. 

I have spent a lot of time doing volunteer work for veterans and veterans’ organizations especially the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association.  I have been extremely blessed to have been elected to serve the VFW as Minnesota’s State Commander.  I also served two years on the National VFW Board of Directors and a year as the National Inspector-General.  As the Inspector-General, I was afforded the opportunity to place a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Washington, D.C., and present the VFW graduation awards at the U.S. Military Academy in West Point, NY, and the U.S. Air Force Academy, at Colorado Springs, CO. 

My wife and I currently enjoy traveling, trike riding, and our volunteer work.