Our class suffered two serious losses during March with the deaths of Jim Rubel and JimMontgomery. As is mentioned in the In Memoriam notices appearing elsewhere, Jim Rubel died at his home at Costa Mesa, Calif., on March 10, while Jim Montgomery died at Phillips House, Boston, on March 28, both following long illnesses.
If you remember the letter from Jim Rubel quoted in the May 1959 column, he told of having been operated upon, about a year earlier, for carcinoma of the large intestine, but he was optimistic as to the results of the operation and looked forward to attending our next reunion.
Jim Montgomery had been ill for some seven years with a type of cancer that mystified the doctors. Only a handful of people, twelve to be exact, had previously suffered from the same type and there were few, if any, medical records pertaining to it. Jim literally served as a human "guinea pig" and submitted to all sorts and kinds of experimentation, tests and treatment. He was in and out of hospitals time and time again but to little avail except that from his case the medical profession may have gained some knowledge which will be useful in treating similar cases in the future. As Ruth wrote to Pete Olds, "It was with great pride and courage that he (Jim) gave so much of his life and body for the benefit of mankind.
... Through all these trying days Ruth was constantly at Jim's side and great credit is due to her for sustaining Jim's morale as she did. The funeral service in Boston was attended by Spique and Ruby MacIntyre, Peteand Lucy Olds and Phil Evans.
If these notes reach you in time let them be a reminder of the "most informal bull fest" which is to be held at the Sturtevants' home at Wilbraham, Mass., on June 11. All 17'ers and their wives are cordially invited. It is to be a Dutch Treat affair, similar to the one usually held at the Towlers'. If you plan to join the party be sure to let Dot know your intention by June 5. If necessary, you can phone Skinny or Dot at Springfield, LYric 6-3311. The Sturtevants look for a good turnout!
It seems a bit early to be speaking of the football season, but there is a reason for doing so. Bob and Anita Scott have advised that, barring the unforeseen, they will again hold an open house for 17'ers and their guests immediately following the Dartmouth-Yale game on October 29. As you know, their home is in Woodbridge, Conn., just a short distance from the Yale Bowl, and those of you who have attended the Scott's open houses in the past know how graciously they entertain. So mark October 29 on your calendar right now!
And here is another date to remember! The fall outing of the class is to be held a bit earlier this year because so many expressed a desire to see the Penn team in action at Hanover on October 1. So note the fact that the outing will, as last year, be held at Woodstock, Vt., with headquarters at The White Cupboard Inn over the September 30-October 2 weekend. As many of you know, the capacity of the Inn is not great so it will be necessary to house some of our number in private homes in the village, as was successfully done last fall. All reservations will be made by the Inn management so it is suggested that you communicate directly with Allan Darrow, proprietor, at an early date if you wish to make a reservation. Full details will be circulated later.
There is no need for me to remind you that the Alumni Fund campaign is well under way because that fact has been cried from the housetops. But as a modest contributor myself I feel that I can add a few words to what already has been said. To those of you who have not yet contributed and are holding back because you think a modest contribution is not welcome, let me say that you could not be more wrong. Substantial contributions from those who can afford to make them are, of course, greatly to be desired, but the smaller contribution which represents a real sacrifice is equally appreciated. So if you are holding back just because you cannot be a large giver - don't! Participation by all 17'ers is greatly to be desired. In fact, participation doubtless will determine our standing in the Green Derby. You will agree, I am sure, that practically every man in the class can give something, little though it may be, so consider well what Dartmouth means to you and, having done that, send in the largest contribution your circumstances will permit. You will feel better for having done so!
Although nothing has been heard here from Len Shea of late, it has been reported in the press that he has retired as a vicepresident of Melville Shoe Corp. and will travel extensively in Europe before deciding on future plans.
Also from the press it has been learned that Walt Walters recently was elected a corresponding member of the German Surgical Society at a meeting of the organization in Munich.
Secretary, South Pomfret Rd. Woodstock, Vt.
Class Agent, 6 Wyeth Rd., Hanover, N. H.