‘Greatest Generation’ grads mark reunion: These 13 members of the …

Special to The Vindicator | published: September 19, 2011

‘Greatest Generation’ grads mark reunion: These 13 members of the Austintown Fitch High School Class of 1944 attended their 67th reunion. From left, seated, are Betty Wehr Nobile, Elaine Barber Zedek, Ray McClain, Hope Gettman Fairbanks, Olga Jakubec Pabst and Howard Hann; standing, Jack Siersdorfer, Mary Louise Adams Bickerstaff, Leatha Baker Brobst, Marjorie Brown Gessner, Chester Clarke, Jim Albertar and Dorothy “Dot” Fee Bishop. The classmates were first-graders in 1932 when Franklin D. Roosevelt was in office. Nineteen boys left their junior and senior years to join the Armed Forces during World War II, and two were lost in the war: Richard Howley and Jack Moan. Chairwoman of this year’s reunion was Gessner, secretary was Eileen Schulz, who was unable to attend. Special guests were Austintown Schools Superintendent Vince Colaluca and director of instruction, Dan Bokesch. The 68th reunion is being planned for Aug. 22, 2012. Time and place will be announced at a later date.