The COMMITTEE

REUNION INFORMATION

Stephen Joseph Koska

Stephen Joseph Koska, 70 of Independence , MO passed away Monday January 1, 2007 at North Kansas City Hospital . A family visitation will be held from 6 to 8:00 p.m. Thursday evening at the Speaks Suburban Chapel. Private interment will be held in St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery . He was born November 8, 1936 in Kansas City , MO to Charles and Nellie (Marek) Koska and had been a lifelong area resident. Stephen was a graduate of East High School in 1954 and member of the Sheet Metals Workers Local #2, retiring in 1991. He is survived by his daughter, Stephanie Bahar; a son Sheldon Koska; grandson, Raj Bahar; former wife and friend, Shirley Seaton; sisters, Teresa Mays, Mary Ann Smith, Barbara Gorman and a niece and nephews. Stephen also leaves behind many close and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Charles Koska, his mother, Nellie Stawinoga and brother Paul Koska. Dad, you will be missed greatly but in our hearts forever. Love Steph and Sheldon. Online condolences may be expressed at www.speakschapel.com. (Arr: Speaks Suburban Chapel) Published in the Kansas City Star on 1/4/2007.
http://www.eastbears.org/1954.html

Karl A. Duderstadt

Karl A. Duderstadt, 90, passed away December 26, 2006. Funeral services will be at 1:00 P.M. Thursday January 4, 2007 at Mt. Moriah and Freeman Funeral Chapel, 10507 Holmes Rd , Kansas City , MO 64131 . Private burial in Mt. Moriah Cemetery . Visitation will be 12:001:00 P.M. Thursday at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to American Stroke Foundation, 8700 Lamar Ave , Overland Park , KS 66207 . Mr. Duderstadt was born December 3, 1916 in Kansas City , MO. He graduated from East High School in Kansas City , MO. Karl was a veteran of the US Navy, serving in WWII. He co-owned and operated K. and A. Litho Process. Karl was preceded in death by his parents, sister, and one brother. He is survived by his brother, Bob Duderstadt; fiancee, Justine Bishoff; as well as many extended family members. (Arr: Mt. Moriah and Freeman Funeral Chapel (816)942-2004). Published in the Kansas City Star on 1/1/2007.
http://www.eastbears.org/1934.html

Betty Lou Callahan, of Kansas City , MO , passed away December 16, 2006 at North Kansas City Hospital . Betty was born on September 22, 1923 in Kansas City , MO to Earl and Frances (Shamback) Mansfield. She lived the majority of her life in the Kansas City area. She was a graduate of East High School in Kansas City . She had worked as a bookkeeper for various companies in Kentucky , California , and Kansas City before her retirement. She was preceded in death by her parents and two brothers. She is survived by her son, Michael Callahan of Kansas City and three grandsons. Services will be private. (Arr: D.W. Newcomer's Sons White Chapel, 6600 N. Antioch, Gladstone , MO 64119 , 816-4528419). Published in the Kansas City Star on 12/18/2006.
http://www.eastbears.org/1941.html

Robert Sieggen

Robert Sieggen, 62, passed away on 10/15/06, born and raised in Kansas City , MO. Graduated from East High School , 1962. Survived by his wife of 42 years, 1 daughter, 2 grandchildren, other close family members. Donated his body to science. Published in the Kansas City Star on 12/14/2006.
http://www.eastbears.org/1962.html

Betty Stewart

Betty Stewart, 82, of Kansas City , Missouri , passed away on November 30, 2006, at Hidden Lake Care Center . Services at 2 p.m. on Friday, December 8, at Nativity Catholic Church, 10017 E. 36th Terrace. Burial 10 a.m. Saturday at Mt. Olivet Cemetery . Visitation 1-2 p.m. Friday at the church. Born May 6, 1924, in Kansas City , Mo. , Betty was a resident of Kansas City her entire life. She attended Ashland Elementary School and graduated from East High School in 1941. She received a B.S. in Business from UMKC and worked for Social Security for over 30 years. She was a beloved friend, godmother and Chiefs fan. She is survived by her nieces Victoria Sexton and Sharon Walruff; godchildren Sally Perkins, Mary Alice Monzyk and Dr. Mark Woodard; cousins Norma Rossato, William Sieker, Judy Murphy; lifelong friend Alice Woodard and her special companion "Toby", her dog. Arrangements by the Advantage Funeral & Cremation Services, (816) 241-6665. Published in the Kansas City Star on 12/7/2006.
http://www.eastbears.org/1941.html

Robertson, Shirley (Skinner)

Shirley Robertson of Independence , Missouri passed away December 3, 2006 at MCI Hospital . Visitation December 5th, 7-8:00PM with services being held at 11:00AM, December 6th at the Sheil Colonial Funeral Home with interment at Floral Hills Cemetery . Shirley was born September 21, 1930, and her parents were Rose and James Skinner of Kansas City . She was married to JM Robertson on October 27, 1951. Shirley was a member of the Independence First Assembly of God and had been employed at the downtown Jones Store before her retirement in 1995. She was a graduate of East High School . Surviving at the home are her husband JM and daughter Melody Robertson. A sister, Eleanor Gribble of Overland Park and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews also survive. (Arr: Sheil Colonial Funeral Home 816353-6555) Published in the Kansas City Star on 12/5/2006.
http://www.eastbears.org/1948.html

Mary Louise Wilson-Hickman

Mary Louise WilsonHickman born 6 August, 1920 to Samuel Andrew Wilson, and Bessie A.L. McCown Wilson, now deceased, in Independence, Missouri. She attended Ott School, in Independence, MO, graduated from McCoy School, East High School, and Jane Hayes Gates College, of Kansas City, MO. She began her Art Career with PhillipMorris Advertising, then to PhillipsReick-Fardon Advertising Agency, on to Phillip-Reick-Stonecker Advertising Agency from there she started her own agency, Mary Louise Wilson Advertising Art in the New York Life Bldg, Kansas City, MO. Venturing on to being a well known Fashion Illustrator for the major department stores of Kansas City, Spiegels in Chicago, and Saks Fifth Avenue, New York. Commanded to do portraitures in pencil and water color of her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II and Oscar de Le Renta. From that time growing an illustration gallery and infant clothing shop in Weston, MO for 14 years. Mary Louise continued her art career until her death, specializing in infant and toddler portraitures in oil, acrylic and pencil and painting still lifes. She was honored with many awards in her art career, nationally and internationally. She was married to her knight, Sir Louis C. "Marty" Hickman for 57 years, until his passing in May, 2003. He was her life! They had no children but their precious dogs. She now meets her knight, Sir Louis, again, with happiness in our Lord's kingdom. Graveside services will be held October 31, 2006, 2 p.m. at D.W. Newcomer's Floral Hills Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to Unity School of Christianity. She leaves sisters-in-law, JoAnn and her husband, Ross Stephens, Lavonne Hickman, many nieces and nephews, and many friends too numerous to list. Please sign the guest book at www.dwnewcomers.com. (Arrangements: D.W. Newcomer's Sons Floral Hills Chapel, 7000 Blue Ridge Blvd., KCMO 64133, 816353-1218). Published in the Kansas City Star on 10/29/2006.
http://www.eastbears.org/1936.html

Hello, My name is Kelly and my mother attended East High School and her graduating year was 1975, her name is Yvonne Shull and her sister Myrna Shull attended the school as well. I am having a 50th surprise birthday party for my mother on 01/06/2006 and I am trying to find people from her past that she went to school with and invite them to the party. My mother went to prom twice in 1974 and 1975. In 1974 she went to the prom with Mike Thompson and in 1975 she went with Dennis Steffes. I would like to find these two men but I don’t know where to start. Can you help me? Thank you, Kelly
http://www.eastbears.org/1975.html

Clyde L. (Sonny) Nickell, Jr. died peacefully September 13, 2006 at his home in Independence, Missouri. Services will be held on Saturday, September 16, at 2 p.m., at the D.W. Newcomer's Sons Floral Hills Chapel, with visitation from 1 to 2 at the chapel. Burial at Floral Hills Memorial Gardens will follow the service. Born in Kansas City, Mo., on December 11, 1921, Clyde was a lifelong area resident. After graduating from East High School in 1939, he enlisted in the Marine Corp. and served in the Pacific Theater. Clyde was aboard the USS Minneapolis coming into port when Pearl Harbor was bombed. He continued in service to his country through the Occupation of Japan. On April 29, 1950, he married Mary C. Sanders, and they enjoyed 56 years together. A plumber by trade, he was a member of the Local #8 for 58 years. He retired from A.D. Jacobson after 25 years. Clyde was very active in the Boy Scouts as his sons grew up, and was involved as Scoutmaster of Troop 269 and member of the Tribe of the Mic-O-Say. Stories of their adventures at 'scout camp' have entertained family and friends for many years. Clyde belonged to Raytown Christian Church, and previously was a longtime member of Belmont Christian Church. He was also a member of the Sheffield Masonic Lodge where he earned his 50-year pin. Clyde adored his five grandchildren and took great pride in their accomplishments. He was an avid gardener and loved to show visitors his backyard, particularly his beloved dahlias. He is survived by his wife, Mary; son, Steven C. Nickell and wife Susan, their children, Kendra, Megan, Paul and Jillian; son Russell Nickell and his son Vincent; a large extended family and many loyal friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Clyde, Sr. and Mary Helen Nickell, and a sister, Phyllis, who died before he was born. Memorial contributions may be made to Raytown Christian Church, 6108 Blue Ridge Blvd., Raytown, MO 64133, or Boy Scouts of America Campership Fund, 10210 Holmes Road, Kansas City MO 64131. Please sign the online guest book at the website www.dwnewcomers.com. Arrangements: D.W. Newcomer's Sons Floral Hills Chapel, 7000 Blue Ridge Blvd., KCMO 64133, (816) 353-1218. Published in the Kansas City Star on 9/15/2006.

Robin "Rob" Lee Hicklin, 69, of Gravois Mills, died Friday, September 1, 2006 at Freeman Health System West in Joplin, MO, following a brief illness. He was born August 6, 1937 in Nelson, MO, to Lee and Louvica Hicklin. He married Maryln Lee Randall on August 8, 1959 in Sappington, MO. He graduated from East High School in Kansas City in 1955. He earned his bachelor's degree from Missouri Valley College in Marshall, a master's degree from Central Missouri State University in Warrensburg, and an education specialist degree from Arkansas State University in Jonesboro. He was a football coach and teacher in Lexington, MO (1959-1962) and in Kansas City, MO at Ruskin High School (1962-1964); head coach in Belton, MO (1964-1969); defensive coordinator at William Penn University in Oskaloosa, Iowa (1969-1974); head coach at Missouri Western State University in St. Joseph (1974-1985); head coach at Southern Arkansas University in Magnolia (1985-1991); elementary principal in Caruthersville, MO (1991-1997); and middle school principal in Charleston, MO (1997-2002). After his retirement to the Lake of the Ozarks in 2002, he continued to scout for the Canadian Football League and teach GED classes. He received "Coach of the Year" awards three times, coached several nationally ranked teams and led his teams to several bowl championships. He was named to the Missouri Western State University Hall of Fame in 2002. In addition to spending time with his family, he enjoyed building projects and woodworking. He also was an avid fan of the Kansas City Chiefs and Royals. He was a member of the Ozark Chapel United Methodist Church in Laurie, MO. In addition to his wife, Maryln, survivors include: one son, Robin Hicklin and wife Cherona of Carthage; three daughters, Tracie Skaggs and husband Derek of Carl Junction, Shelly Perez and husband Alex of Henly, and LeeAnn Halliburton and husband Robert of Fort Smith, AR; one brother, Walter Hicklin and wife Lynn of Warrensburg; six grandchildren, Hillary Perez, Lanie Skaggs, Nathan Skaggs, Katie Skaggs, Hadley Hicklin, and Carson Hicklin; and many nieces and nephews. A private family graveside service will be held at Garber Memorial Estates Cemetery in Laurie, MO. A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. Wednesday, September 6 at Ozark Chapel United Methodist Church on Highway 5 in Laurie. A celebration of life will follow in the fellowship hall at the church. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations to the Rob Hicklin Western Football Memorial Scholarship Fund, Missouri Western State University Foundation, Spratt 111, 4525 Downs Drive, St. Joseph, MO 64507, or the Ozark Chapel United Methodist Church Building Fund, 305 N. Main St., P.O. Box 1096, Laurie, MO 65038. To send sympathy emails for the family visit: www.kidwellgarber.com. Arrangements under the care and direction of the Kidwell-Garber Funeral Home of Laurie. Published in the Kansas City Star on 9/3/2006.

Bears, 30 yrs. ago I remember graduating from East ('76) I went on to become a Jr. olympic All-American wrestler at CMSU & 2X MIAA Champ. Now I've coached for 25 years & my teams are in the High School Natl. Recordbook by having the most takedowns in dual when I coached at Platte County HS in '87. Now my oldest son, Nate Thomas is a redshirt soph. football player & track athlete at Pitt State & my youngest son, Jon Thomas, is a Sr. at the school I'm now coaching at, Christ Prep Academy (CPA). I'm the head wrestling coach & receivers coach there so keep your ears open as we should be an excellent team this season. On 9/23 I'll be at Pitt State to see Nate play, but I'm sending these pixs to show some oldtimers. I've done several events with Marlin McQueen & appreciate his help with my teams. Check out my website & let my old buddies know so they can check it out to see if I can help their families in any way. I travel the midwest coaching football & wrestling clinics & camps & I speak at many schools to encourage kids. Website - www.coachttd.com Most people know me as Coach T & not Greg Thomas in case you didn't know. Blessings!! Coach T ( Greg Thomas )
http://www.eastbears.org/1976.html
http://www.coachttd.com

I can't remember the last reunion I was able to attend, but I think it might have been the 20-years reunion, 1985. Or maybe the one in 1979. Either way, I remember I still had hair and my beard was dark.

I don't know that I will be able to attend in September, but I still get back to the mid-West occassionally so maybe I can work out the timing. Regardless, please post my contact information in the Class of 1965. If I can attend I will see if I can talk my father and my two uncles into attending as well: Robert (father) 1930, Frank 1933, Norman 1937. I will also pass the reunion info on to my brother and sister, Randy and Robin 1968.

Congratulations on the website; a nice job of presenting a great amount of information. I know it is not easy to put all that together. I still have my Eastonians somewhere in the attic, but it has been years since I last saw them. What fun to see some of the old photos, particularly the one of the 1965 track team. I have a box, somewhere, with a lot of pictures taken around East High School when I was in Mr.Pruett's photography class. If I can find them (don't hold your breath) I will scan some and send them to you.

Speaking of photos, I think the bear you are trying to identify on the http://www.eastbears.org/new.html page under "Saturday, January 29, 2005" may be the kodiak bear in the Kansas City Museum on Gladstone Blvd.

Thanks to you for all the effort. Eric Kratschmer
http://www.eastbears.org/1965.html

Well, I saw my first e-mail on this sight so I might as well let you know what we have planned for our 30th! First of all, whoever reads this, please give me your e-mail address to up-date our mailing list and please pass on this website to others from our class that you keep in touch with. This is always the toughest part, tracking down you all!!. On Friday, August 12, 2005, we will get together at Tanner's in Lee's Summit. Ron Riggs owns the establishment and willingly agreed to let us hang out there. And, from what I hear a lot of you frequent Tanner's so why not invite everyone else! On Saturday, August 13, 2005, we are having a family picnic. Some of you are "grandparents"!! so load up the family and bring them with you. All are welcome. The picnic will be at Baumgardner Park in Blue Springs (next to Centennial Pool) and if you are not familiar with the location, directions will come later. We will have a catered picnic (yet to be determined), a juke-box, loaded with all the favorites from the 70's, various sport activities, along with swimming next door for the kids that would like to. A photographer will be on sight to do a memory book which you can order at that time. My e-mail address is fvg51025@msn.com and my phone number is 816-228-3155. Karla (Albertson) Grimes phone number is 816-679-2071. I believe this is all the info I can pass on for now. We will be having another reunion meeting in a month or so. I will be glad to post the date for any interested in joining our meeting you are more than welcome to come. Thanks, Vicki
http://www.eastbears.org/1975.html
http://www.eastbears.org/reunion.html
http://www.eastbears.org/archive.htm