The MHS 49ers' own Cal Gardner

The Melrose High Class of 1949 held its annual off-year mini reunion, switching the venue this time to the Kernwood in Lynnfield.

Thirty class members signed up for the occasion, and most of those, plus one or two others, showed. There was no speaker for the luncheon, other than noting the passing of a couple more members.

It was a good time, we heard several comment. Quiet, sedate, conversational -- and good to see old friends again. Among the celebrants was Bill Damon, at his first reunion; he is now retired from the military, having flown many missions in Vietnam, and having several airplanes shot out from under him.

Among the 49ers at the luncheon were Beverly and Ken Ames, Jane Breede. John Cempe, Jackie Corson Lauriat, William B. Damon, Susan Evans Bradbury, William C. Freeman, Cal Gardner, Marilyn Gorton Jones, Perry Killam Jr., Martha MacQuarrie Stiles, Bettina Page, Barbara Rooney Buckley, Muriel Sylvester Elliott, Carolyn Burditt Reedy, David Clarke, Joan Crowley Dobias, John A. Dowd, Theo Fogg Johnson, Kathleen Frink Murray. Frances Germonprez Paterson, Joseph J. Giovino, Graham Jones, Thorton "Hank" Lauriat, Marie Muise Scales, Elisabeth Powell Place, Jean Stevens Kripp, Marcia Vannah Morang and Don Norris. Dede Gorton had a guest, Charles Gilman.

The antique photos of these vital young people were supplied by Frances Germonprez Paterson and Joan Crowley Dobias.


Flo Kumple, Jean Travellini and Joan Crowley.


Again, Jean and Joan in January, 1946.



Jean, Flo and Joan in January, 1945.



Joan and Jean in more mature years.


October 4, 2002