WOU Magazine Spring 2012: Feature stories
The year in review
1930s
In remembrance
Mildred Bonkowski ’32 on Sept. 21 at age 100. Mildred married Stanley Bonkowski on July 1, 1946 in Cottage Grove. Mildred served in the Women’s Army Corps during World War II. She earned her master’s degree in education from the Oregon College of Education and worked as a teacher and a homemaker.
Margie C. Morgan ’36 on Feb. 16 at age 94. In 1934, Margie received her teaching certificate from the Oregon Normal School then married Harold Morgan on June 11, 1938. In 1957, she continued her education and graduated from Western Oregon University. Margie taught school in Yamhill County for 34 years, retiring in 1981. She was a member of the Rebekah Lodge and enjoyed gardening, knitting, crocheting, loved to travel and loved spending time wit h her family.
Mary G. Preissler ’38 on Feb. 12 at age 102. After Mary graduated from Franklin High school, she completed her degree from the Oregon College of Education. She was an elementary school teacher in Washington and Marion County for 34 years. Mary married Martin F. Preissler and during WWII she accompanied her husband wherever he was stationed, but the couple finally settled down in Salem. Mary was a member of many differed education based associations in addition to being an active member on the alumni board at WOU.
Valette Mckibben ’31 on Feb. 25 at age 104. Valette attended Oregon Normal School and graduated in 1931, and began teaching primary grades. She married Harry Mckibben and became the mother of two boys, grandmother to eight, great-grandmother to eight, and great-great grandmother to two.
1940s
In remembrance
Bette M Bergstorm ’40 on Dec. 13 at age 80. Bette attended both Linfield College and Oregon College of Education. She taught school before meeting her future husband of 46 years, Arthur Bergstorm. Bette loved music and sang and directed in many choirs.
Robert E McKee ’49 on Dec. 12 at age 89. Robert served in World War II after he graduated from high school in 1940. In 1943, Robert married Marylou Wiesner. They were married for 68 years and had three children. Robert was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross in 1945. After earning a degree in education from Oregon College of Education, the couple settled in Roseburg where Robert was a teacher and administrator for 25 years. Robert finished his career in education at the Marion county Education Service District in 1987. His interests included gardening, walking and spending time with his family.
Mina Fish ’48 on Jan. 14 at age 84. Mina was born in Detroit Lanes, Minn. She married Gordon Fish. She earned her master’s degree in education and worked as a teacher.
1950s
In remembrance
Walter Burgess ’53 Oct. 3 at age 84. Walter graduated with an associate of arts degree in art from Olympia Junior College. He later earned his bachelor’s degree in elementary education with administrative credentials from WOU in 1953, then his master’s degree in education from University of Oregon in 1961. He served as a paratrooper in the Army during World War II. Walter worked as an elementary school principal from 1961 until his retirement in 1984.
Bobby Joe Orcutt ’52 Nov. 8 at age 82. Bobby attended Vanport College and Western Oregon University, earning his bachelor’s degree in 1952 and master’s in 1960. Bobby joined the Navy Reserve and served until his retirement in 1977. On June 12, 1953 he married Bonnie Collins. Bobby taught in Milwaukie for 10 years and then in the Portland area for 27 years. After retiring in 1987 he continued to teach part time at Portland State. He started his real estate career in 1988. Bobby enjoyed collecting stamps, gardening, swimming and traveling.
Louise Perry ’52 Dec. 3 at age 81. Louise earned her bachelor’s degree in education from Oregon College of Education and her master’s degree in education from Lewis and Clark College in the 1970’s. While teaching full time and raising her family Louise taught for nearly 40 years, most of which were in Hood River County. In retirement Louse devoted her time to her spiritual and civic communities through extensive volunteer work. Louise loved reading and music. Louse and the love of her life Ted, loved to travel around the world together.
Tyrus Stearns Brown ’57, ’61 on Dec. 27 at age 90. After high school Tyrus worked as a logger. His favorite job was patrolling timber lands up Mill Creek. Tyrus enrolled in Oregon College of Education, but soon enough he had enlisted himself in the Army Air Force during World War II. During pilot training he met his future wife Jeri. He began his career as a building contractor and later obtained his single and multi-engine commercial pilot certificate. He went back to school and obtained his bachelor’s and master’s degree in education. He later earned his doctorate in education from Oregon State University in 1969, and continued his career in education administration. In retirement Tyrus spent his time in Yuma, Arizona. He loved to fish, build houses and play cards.
Robert A. Park ’57, ’66 on Nov. 22. Robert served in the U.S. Army from Aug. 1951 to March 1954, and was awarded on several accounts due to his dutiful service. He earned his bachelor’s degree in 1957 and his master’s degree in 1966 from OCE. He taught at Cloverdale, The Bureau of Indian Affairs in Mito, Alaska and Nenana, Alaska. He then returned to Oregon, and continued his teacher career. Later he went to work with the department of Defense Dependent Schools in Schwabisch, Germany at Patch Elementary school in Stuttgart where he was awarded the Administrator of the year. Robert continued to teach all over the world.
Paul Edward Lee ’51 on Jan 2 at age 85. After high school Paul joined the U.S. Navel Air Force and served from 1945-1946. He later graduated from Oregon College of Education, where he met his future wife, Patricia. He was halfback on the “OCE undefeated team of 1949.” Paul taught K-8 grade for 16 years in Oregon and three years in Port Orford. He retired from teaching in 1966; he then became the owner of Lowell General Store until 1973. He also owned Paul’s Place and the Silber Door in Port Orford. Paul retired in 1993 to enjoy the forest, traveling and gardening.
Dale J. Goodrick ’56 at age 84. Dale joined the U.S. Navy at age 17 and served for one year. He joined the U.S. Army in 1952 and served for his country until 1953, when he was honorably discharged as a sergeant. He married Friedel in Ansbach, Germany. He earned a master’s degree in teaching from Oregon College of Education. They lived in Forest Grove, and abroad in Pakistan, Israel and Chile. He taught in Dallas, Sweet Home, and in Forest Grove in the primary and middle schools. He enjoyed reading, traveling and golfing.
Katherine Ann Miller ’53 on Jan. 8 at age 79. Katherine earned her bachelor’s degree in education from Oregon College of Education. She taught at various locations in Oregon including Dallas, Parkrose, and Arlington. She also taught music at the Navy base school in Yokosuka, Japan, as well as the American Schools in Aschaffenburg and Berlin in Germany. While teaching all over the world she also managed to find time to travel. She loved to read and was a member of Hope Lutheran Church.
Lionel Raymond Miller ’57 on Jan. 1 age 81. Lionel graduated with honors from Oregon College of Education where he played football and served as student body president. He served in the U.S. Air Force for four years during the Korean War. Lionel married Margot Burridge, together the couple had four children. He also had seven granddaughters and four great grandchildren. Lionel was hired in 1957 by the Parkrose School District where he taught and coached until his retirement in 1988. Raised by the Columbia River Lionel was a lifelong sailor. The high point of his sailing life was when he completely restored a rare 1961 Chris Craft 28ft. “Constellation” Cruiser.
Beth J. Bauman ’52 on Jan. 22 at age 85. After Beth graduated from high school, she married Alfred in 1948. They raised their two children in addition to their two foster children. Beth received her bachelor’s degree and teaching degrees from Oregon College of Education and earned a master’s degree in counseling from Ohio State. She retired from Britton Middle School in Hilliard, Ohio, where she was a guidance counselor for 18 years. In retirement she volunteered at Legacy Meridian Park Hospital for almost 20 years. She was also an active member of the Washington County extension service and volunteered at the Tualatin Senior Center gift shop.
Mary Helen (Gordon) Wright ’51 on March 74 at age 76. Mary graduated from Detroit High School and then earned her teaching certificate bachelor’s degree and special education endorsement from Oregon College of Education. She spent her entire teaching career in the Mill City School District, retiring after 37 years. Mary and James Wright were married July 10, 1955. They had four children, eight grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren. Mary and James enjoyed party bridge for many years, and after retiring Mary enjoyed playing duplicate bridge.
1960s
In remembrance
Ronald Irving Zerkel Jr. ’68 on Nov. 13 at age 84. In 1946 Ronal was drafted into the U.S. Army. He was stationed in Frankfurt, Germany, where he met his wife Gisela. The couple moved to Lebanon in 1953. Ronald returned to school and graduated with his bachelor’s degree in education in 1968, he later earned his master’s degree from Oregon State University in 1971. Ronald taught elementary school for 21 years and served as a Boy Scout Troop master for many years. He was a member of the Saviors Lutheran Church where he served on the church council and taught Sunday school. In retirement Ronald loved to travel all over the world.
Paul Faxton ’63 on Oct 19 at age 81. Paul graduated from Oregon College of Education in 1963 with a teaching certificate. He taught in Toledo for 25 tears at both Arcadia and Burgess, interjected with a year at the Special Education School in Newport. In retirement he spent his time in his garden and his green house. He loved to grow his own vegetables and give them to his friends and family. He was a member of the Eddyville Community Church and taught Sunday school classes as well as participated in the Good News Club. He also enjoyed volunteering.
Richard K. Jaskoski ’65 on Feb. 3. After Richard earned his bachelor’s degree and his master’s degree from OCE in 1965, he went on to teach in the Salem-Keizer school district for 30 years. Twenty out of Richard’s 30 years of teaching were spent at McNary High school in Keizer as the English Department head.
Mildred C. Haugen ’61 on Dec. 13 at age 102. Mildred attended Drake University, Iowa State Teachers College and Oregon College of Education and earned her bachelor’s degree in education. She married Joseph Haugen, who died in 1994. In 1947, they moved from Grand Forks, N.D. to Bend, Ore. In 1999 she moved to Grants Pass. Mildred enjoyed golfing, singing, fishing and spending time with her family.
Rita Mae Montgomery ’60 on Jan. 10 at age 75. Rita taught at Perry dale for 27 years. She was also involved in Delta Kappa Gamma for years. Rita and her husband volunteered at the Polk County Historical society as well as participated on the board.
Class notes
Barbara Jean Holloway Joines ’63 and her husband celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in December.
1970s
In remembrance
Denise Lorraine Harding ’77 on Nov. 5 at age 56. Denise earned her bachelor’s degree in education from Western in 1977 and then continued on to earn her master’s degree at Portland State University in 1984. She taught in the Davis Douglas School district for 28 years until she retired due to her health in 2006. She taught at Floyd Light Middle School for the last 16 years of her career. Denise’s hobbies included traveling walking on the beach, camping, exercising and reading. Denise was a devoted wife, a loving mother, and a selfless friend. She loved being a homemaker and loved to bake and decorate her house.
Burt Willis Redick ’78 on Dec. 20 at age 80. After Burt graduated from Redondo Beach High School in 1950 he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps. Later, he attended Cal Poly State University and eventually earned his master’s degree in correctional administration from Oregon College of Education. Burt had careers in law enforcement and corrections. In 1987 he retired from his job as a Clackamas county parole and probation officer.
Patrick James Mulvey ’71 on Jan. 29 at age 66. After graduating from Oregon College of Education Patrick worked in Lansing, Michigan, where he taught newly blind adults how to read Braille. Patrick worked for social security administration for 29 years. Patrick along with his twin brother were part of a four-man band in the 1960s, together they produced two records.
Eileen Little Herman ’74 on Dec. 16 at age 83. After Eileen graduated from high school she earned an academic scholarship to Boston University, where she studied science. While at school she met her husband, Peter Shaw Herman. The coupled settled in Portland and started a family. Although the couple later divorced, they remained friends. Eventually Eileen returned to school and earned her bachelor’s degree in Spanish in 1947 from Western. She taught as a high school substitute, as well as teaching in the state penitentiary. Eileen later took a plunge and opened a retail store called Your Place. She loved reading, painting, writing poetry, and spending time with her family.
Ted Nakamura ’75 on Feb 9 at age 58. Ted attended several schools in Ontario before obtaining a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Oregon College of Education in 1975. Ted taught at Baker Elementary School in Baker, Ore. for one year and at Madras Elementary in Madras, Ore. for three years. Ted married his wife in 1981. Ted moved to Portland and accepted a teaching position at Lake Grove Elementary School in Lake Oswego where he taught for 25 years. Ted enjoyed golfing and fishing with friends and marathon running.
Class notes
John Purdy ’78 had his novel, Riding Shotgun into the Promised Land, published in 2011.
1980s
In remembrance
Elizabeth Hepburn ’87 on Oct. 22 at age 80. Elizabeth married Charles Hepburn in 1950. She earned two master’s degrees, one in English from Wayne State College, and the other in counseling from Western. Elizabeth worked as a college professor, public relations director, hospital chaplain, and mental health counselor until she retired from Northwest Human Services in 1996. Elizabeth was a member of St. Edwards Catholic Church and AAUW, she also enjoyed traveling, music and movies.
Robert Wesley Howard ’81 on Nov. 2 at age 55. Robert earned his associate degree in electronics from the Oregon Institute of Technology in 1976, and his bachelor’s of science degree in education with a math major from Western Oregon University. He worked as an electronics technician and a landscaper. Robert enjoyed chess, sailing archery, and skiing, motorcycling and collecting books. He loved his family and enjoyed being an uncle and great uncle to his 35 nieces and nephews.
Robert E. Seltzer ’82 on Dec. 23 at age 69. Robert graduated from Bellevue High School, and then attended Parsons College in Iowa and then graduated from Oregon College of Education. He was an artist and was a member of the Oregon Water Color Society.
Eryn Elizabeth Rose ’89 on Feb. 4 at age 54. Eryn earned her degree in psychology from Western Oregon University in 1989. Eryn’s dream was to assist people in making their life better; and she made her dream a reality. She went from being a struggling young mother living on assistance to becoming a successful social worker and senior peer counselor.
Class notes
Marybeth Angulo ’89. Marybeth has taught in the Sweet Home School District for 22 years. She is currently teaching fourth grade. She graduated with honors from Portland State in 2012 with a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction. In addition to teaching she is presently serving a two-year term on the Sweet Home City Council. In December her third grandchild was born. She loves teaching, community activities and spending time with her family and grandchildren.
1990s
In remembrance
Emily Ann Pohlschneider-Edwards ’97 on Oct. 24 at age 34. Emily graduated from Western with a bachelor’s degree in business and was a collegiate athlete in track and field. She enjoyed her career in graphic designer at Nike World Headquarters. She had a passion for being active and for the outdoors. Emily loved to spend time her with family. She married Steven Edwards in 2002. Her friends and family were the loves of her life and provided her great happiness.
2000s
In remembrance
Tamara E. Condit ’11 on Nov. 16 at age 43. Tammy moved to the Rouge Valley in 2003, to be close with her family. She moved to Sheridan, Ore. in 2007, and married James Whitehouse. She attended Western Oregon University and earned her master’s degree in special education in 2011.
Karen Lee Sinex ’00 on Dec. 10 at age 53. The Oregon chapter of Karen’s life began in 1993 where she resumed her education in Coos Bay. She graduated from Southwestern Oregon Community College before moving on to graduate from Western. She earned her master’s degree in Education. Karen taught as a high school science teacher at Jefferson High School. In addition to her teaching duties, she as actively involved in the local teachers union. She was elected president of the local Jefferson Education Associate and was later selected to serve as a director of the Oregon Education Association.
Class notes
Abraham Neal ’01 and his wife purchased their first home in January 2012.
Edmond Trussell ’10 is currently teaching American Missionary Children in West Africa. Next year he plans to continue teaching in Bogotá, Columbia.
Faculty & staff
In remembrance
Donald Stout Bryant on Nov. 16 at age 94. Donald graduated from Pacific University in 1941 with a bachelor’s degree in health, physical education and recreation. On Dec. 26, 1941 Donald married Patricia. In February 1942 he enlisted in the Navy. Following his WWII Service Donald taught at Forest Grove High School before becoming an assistant director of admissions and football coach at Pacific University. He then embarked on a 10-year teaching career at both Estacada and Lincoln High Schools. Donald received his master’s degree in education administration and his Ph.D. in philosophy of education. He spent the rest of his career employed by the Oregon State system of Higher Education, enabling Donald to teach graduate courses at Western Oregon University. He retired from education in 1981.
Professor Anton Postl on Dec. 4 at age 96. Anton graduated from the University of Hawaii with senior honors in chemistry. He began teaching at Mid Pacific Institute, where he met his wife, Mildred Walker. Shortly after the birth of his children he began his long and distinguished teaching career at the Oregon College of Education in 1947. While teaching full-time he completed his Ph.D. in science education at Oregon State University. He spent many years as the chairman of the Science and Mathematics Department. Anton published several articles and translations regarding the history of science. Anton was an avid gardener, hiker and photographer, a lover of music and was committed to his church.
