Jun 4

Written by: ngreditor
6/4/2008 9:41 AM 

The Class of 1948 met at the Albion Country Club on Friday night. They posed for a photo along with their spouses.

Friends - Sixty years together

Norma Larson

Is it possible 60 years ago on May 19, 35 young people, ready to conquer the world, walked into the “old gym” in blue caps and gowns? Pomp and Circumstance was being played as the guests of honor before a large crowd were never to be together again. Then each of us walked across the long stage one by one to receive our diplomas. Now the remainder of us are meeting again to renew old friendships, reminisce and “catch up”.

“We’ve come a long way, Baby” each in our own way. Thirteen have passed on leaving a big hole for the rest of us to share the burdens and joys. We remember them fondly each day.

Nearly all the young men served in the military to defend our country and our freedoms during the Korean War. How fitting we are again meeting on Memorial Day weekend. Many of us took advantage of the GI Bill of Rights on to further education. Many of the class, both girls and boys, followed the example of our favorite English teacher Mrs. Johnson, many with docorates teaching at college level. Several also became nurses.

The 48er’s moved to various places in the United States during the following years. At the present time this includes, California, Florida, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Washington, Iowa, Texas, Colorado and seven Nebraska towns. Bob Larson wins for the most miles and Elliott Broberg is the closest.

As a group and individually, we have been through the usual disasters; divorce, loss of spouse, children and grandchildren, struggling with being poor, and terminal illness. We have been spared from prison terms or death by auto accident.

We have rejoiced with each other during promotions, weddings, and financial stability Spouses are welcomed to our group as one of us.

As we meet this weekend we share the good and the bad and continue to be a closer knit circle of friends than that night 60 year ago.

In closing may I repeat an email I received recently?

You’re my friend my companion thru good times and bad my friend, my buddy, through happy and sad. Beside me you stand beside me you walk, you’re to there to listen, you’re there to talk with happiness, with smiles with pain and tears I know you’ll be there, throughout the years. You are all good friends to me and I am grateful to you. Remember, no man or woman is a failure who has a friend.