1941

Sarasota resident Bill Billings reported the death of his roommate and Phi Gam fraternity brother, Bob Dixon, who passed away at his Texas home on March 21. Bill "Zeke" Billings, a former professor in clinical obstetrics and gynecology at Yale School of Medicine, had kept in close contact with Bob as he carved out an illustrious career in the Air Force. Bob was a muchdecorated fighter pilot in three combat engagements: WWII, the Korean conflict and the Vietnam War. He also commanded the Tactical Air Command and served in many high-ranking staff positions prior to his retirement in 1978 as a four-star general. Billings and his wife, Margaret, attended the memorial services in Texas for Dixon, who served as president and chairman of the board of Fairchild Republic Co. from 1978 to 1982.The class is rightly proud of General Dixon and extends its condolences to Lamana Dixon and their four children, Thomas, Roland, Mary and Kelly '82.

The Florida mini-reunion in March was pronounced a success thanks to the organizing efforts of Stu May and Hans Froehlich. There are already plans for a mini in March of 2004 at Mt. Dora with Don and Pat Stillman volunteering to make the arrangements.

Hank Gunst in Richmond, Virginia, has attended these Florida minis, but he couldn't make the recent one because of the demands of his real estate development work.

A long-time resident of Niagara Falls when he wasn't involved in heavy construction work overseas, is Jack Guenther, Th'42. He also saw the world as a Navy Seabee during WW II. Now he is content with his volunteer work in upstate New York and his exercise in the local YMCA weight room and pool. Unfortunately, his strength and weight have mysteriously diminished since last December, but he's gamely fighting the arthritis like affliction. Hang in there, Jack.

Another '41 who has fought a disabling disease is Charlie Putnam in Acton, Massachusetts. He was diagnosed as having diabetes 57 years ago, possibly caused by his use of atabrine to prevent malaria in the Solomon Islands during WW II. With daily medication and careful diet, Charlie has had a long and productive career in banking in the Boston area. Not even a heart attack in 1999 and a quadruple by-pass have slowed him down. Way to go, Charlie.

5975 Camelot Drive North, Sarasota, FL34233;jachensr@aol.com