North Dakota School for the Deaf Society Articles Feed

Letter from the 125th class reunion chairperson

Bobby Balzer, '77 — 2012-02-03 23:49:00 -0600

Please click this link. Thanks

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4KuxBRzVc2s

Herbert Younker passes away

Bobby Balzer, '77 — 2012-01-18 21:25:00 -0600

Herbert Younker

Herbert Younker, 86, Minot, died on Friday, December 02, 2011 in his home.

Herbert was born on January 15, 1925 to Henry and Christina (Neubauer) Younker in Beulah, ND. He was raised and educated in Beulah. At the age of 13, he lost his hearing and attended the ND School for the Deaf at Devils Lake, graduating in 1945.

Herbert then worked for the Devils Lake Journal for 2 years. He moved to Minot in 1947 and started working for the Minot Daily News. He married Maxine Linson on April 23, 1955 in Stanley, ND. They had three children whom they raised in the home they built in Minot. Selected as Minot\'s outstanding employee with a disability in 1980, Herb was dedicated not only to his job at The Minot Daily news (retiring after 42 years in 1990), but also to advocating for the hearing impaired and helping with the design of television news captions.

Herbert was a member of the Eagle’s, President of the Magic City Deaf Club and served as Secretary and later President for the North Dakota Association for the Deaf. He was also a member of the International Typographical Union (Linotype), and Our Redeemer s Lutheran Brethren Church, Minot. Herbert loved spending time with his family, playing softball, pool, fishing, camping, bowling, traveling, coin collecting, and playing cards. He also valued his time spent at Strawberry Lake, where he graduated from a tent, to a camper, to a cabin. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who will be greatly missed by all that knew him.

His loving family includes: wife of 56 years, Maxine; children: John (Kathy) Younker, Hazen, Roberta (Dan) Degenstein, Minot, Nancy (Tony) Stewart, Burlington; 7 grandchildren: Jennifer Pool, TJ (Melissa) Stewart, Annette (Jay) Van Dyke, Travis Stewart, Justin (Jennifer Deibert) Pool, Jacob (Jaime Krahler) Younker, Andrew Younker; 10 great grandchildren: Madisyn and McKenna Edmisten, Aiden, Isaac, Ian, and Ella Stewart, Ava, Ella, and Lily Van Dyke, Nevaeh Marmon; 2 step-grandchildren: Lisa (Ole) Bergstad, Amy (Sean) Spencer; 8 step-great grandchildren: Brad, Stefany, Samantha Spencer, Shyanne Jensen, Alex, Lacy, Kassidy, and Blaize Bergstad; sisters-in-law: Della Linson, Mesa, AZ, Janie (Jack) Lieupo, Mesa, AZ, Gertrude Younker, Bismarck, ND, Esther Reinschmidt, Beulah, ND and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Christina Younker; sister: Lillian Heihn; brothers: John, Jack, Adam, Fred and Gus.

Funeral service: Monday, December 5, 2011 at 1:30 p.m. in Our Redeemers Lutheran Brethren Church, Minot. Interment: Rosehill Memorial Park, Minot.
Visitation:Sunday (Today) from noon - 5:00 p.m. in Thomas Family Funeral Home, Minot.
Memorials are preferred to Jesus Christ Club for the Deaf at Our Redeemers Lutheran Brethren Church.

Margaret Kelsch Cordano, NDSD class of 1945

Bobby Balzer, '77 — 2011-10-26 11:13:00 -0500

Sitting in the cart is Margaret Kelsch Cordano with her daughter, Mary Cordano Dall, of Wisconsin (Gallaudet class of 1983) during Gallaudet University's 75th Homecoming weekend for Margaret's 60th "Diamond" Anniversary class reunion. Margaret is from Mandan, North Dakota and graduated at NDSD in 1945. She is now living in Indiana. NDSD Society wants to congratulate Margaret Kelsch Cordano for being a longstanding proud NDSD alumnus. Kudos to Margaret!!!

Loren Geiszler 10-13-60 to 8-19-2011

Barbara (Gunderson) Geiszler, '73 — 2011-10-04 14:16:00 -0500

Kenneth Blackhurst passes away

James Johnson, '85 — 2011-04-27 09:28:00 -0500

Kenneth L. Blackhurst, 97 of Devils Lake, ND passed away on Saturday, April 23, 2011 at the Good Samaritan Center, Devils Lake.

Funeral Services for Kenneth will be held at the Gilbertson Funeral Home, Devils Lake on Friday, April 29, 2011 at 2:00 p.m. with Rev. Roger Leonhardt officiating. Burial will be held at a later date in the Devils Lake Cemetery. Visitation will be held on Friday beginning at 9:00 a.m. until time of service at the funeral home.

Kenneth Lucus was born in Manchester, England in the United Kingdom on May 14, 1913, the son of David and Ada (Winter) Blackhurst. Kenneth and his brother Roy were both born deaf. He was reared and educated in Bolton, England, attending the Thommason Memorial School for the Deaf and Blind for 12 years. He continued his education and became a Dental Mechanic and worked in that profession until 1950. He then was the Assistant Superintendent for Bolton, Leigh and District Deaf Society for seven years. This position involved looking after about 250 deaf adults-visiting their homes, running parties, giving church services, advising them with regard to their problems, distributing pensions, etc. In 1958, Kenneth made his way to the United States and arrived in San Francisco in March and began a job as a Dental Technician for several months. He then became a dormitory counselor at the North Carolina School for the Deaf in Morganton, North Carolina for two years and then in 1962 he accepted the position as a dormitory counselor/house parent at the North Dakota School for the Deaf in Devils Lake. He was employed for 23 years at NDSD and retired in 1984. This however did not end his work with the deaf. For a time he operated a candy shop at the NDSD that was open evenings where young students would stop by and chat and buy penny candy treats. In 1984 the current boy’s dormitory was dedicated to honor Kenneth Blackhurst and his long years of service at the NDSD and was named Blackhurst Dorm. His work as a dormitory counselor and volunteer work with the deaf spanned 62 plus years.

Kenneth was a member of the Episcopal Church, North Dakota Association of the Deaf and National Association of the Deaf. He was an avid reader and also enjoyed hiking and biking. While at the School for the Deaf he also repaired hundreds of bikes for residents and staff. Kenneth’s motto in life was, “Thy will, not mine, I go forth whatever happens.”

Kenneth is survived by his brother, Roy Blackhurst of Lytham, England; sister-in-law Valerie Blackhurst of Lancashire, England and niece Margaret Scofield also of Lancashire.

Veronica Elaine Schiff, a retired staff member, passes away

James Johnson, '85 — 2011-03-30 09:10:00 -0500

Veronica E. Schiff, 91 of Devils Lake, ND passed away on Friday, March 25, 2011 at Heartland Care Center, Devils Lake, ND in the loving care of her family.

Mass of Christian Burial for Veronica will be held on Tuesday, March 28, 2011 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Devils Lake. Fr. Peter Sharpe will celebrate the Mass and burial will be in St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery.

Visitation will be held at the Gilbertson Funeral Home, Devils Lake on Monday from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m with a Rosary and Scripture Service at 7:00 p.m. Visitation on Tuesday will be at the church one hour prior to the funeral Mass.

Serving as Casket Bearers will be Veronica’s grandchildren, Ryan Feltman, Heidi Feltman, Adam Black, John Dybwad, Spencer Black and Emily Black. Reading the Scriptures will be Richard Scharf and Gift Bearers will be grandchildren, Spencer Black and Michelle Breen. Music will be provided by JoDee Lagein and Kensey Kjelden.

A celebration of Veronica’s life. Veronica Elaine was born on December 31, 1919 at Blumenfeld, ND the daughter of Michael and Johanna (Schwan) Senger. When she was about four years old, her parents moved to rural Devils Lake where she attended consolidated school. On October 28, 1940 she married Frank Schiff at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church where they were both lifetime members. Veronica spent years as an active member of St. Ann’s Altar Society Circle.

Veronica was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother. Her zest for life and strong imagination will forever live in the hearts of those who loved her. She and Frank always welcomed family and friends into their home and were always there to lend a helping hand. They enjoyed doing many things together. Some of their favorites were the many fishing trips to Canada, card parties, especially on those cold winter nights, and spending time with their grandchildren.

Veronica had many special gifts that will always be remembered. Some of these were her unending compassion for people in need of help, her commitment to hard work and the joy she felt in sewing blankets for hundreds of babies. Veronica greatly enjoyed her fourteen years at the School for the Deaf as a dorm counselor. She became a second mother to many of the little boys in her care. She always made them feel loved and gave so much to help them grow. She had many experiences in her life, but none more fulfilling than taking care of “her boys”. After she retired, she continued to stay busy everyday whether it be in the garden, reading or working on the special projects she created. She was a wonderful cook and her family enjoyed many memorable meals together.

Veronica’s unique qualities will always be instilled in the people she touched.

Veronica is survived by her loving family: her children, Judy (Richard) Scharf of Fargo, Frank (Sherrill) Schiff Jr. of Prescott, Arizona, Irene Dybwad of Grand Forks, ND, Nancy (Dean) Black of Devils Lake and Betty (Marlin) Feltman also of Grand Forks; grandchildren, Jeff (Debra) Scharf of Colorado Springs, CO, Michelle (Paul) Breen of Oxbow, ND, Ryan Feltman of Minneapolis, Heidi Feltman and Jeff Dybwad both of Grand Forks, Andrea (Andy) Eickenbrock of Arizona, Adam Black, Minneapolis, John Dybwad and Spencer Black also Grand Forks and Emily Black of Fargo; great grandchildren, Jared Breen, Minneapolis, Jenna Breen St. Paul, MN and Beckett Eickenbrock of Arizona; sisters and brothers, Frances Daniels, Devils Lake, Rose OGrocko, California, Katy Steffan, Irene (Phil) Steffan, Marie (Tim) Kurtz, Wendy Senger, Frank (Gail) Senger all of Devils Lake, Bill (Betty) Senger, Ohio and Jerry (Connie) Senger of Arizona; many nieces, nephews and their families also survive.

Veronica was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Frank on May 10, 1996; infant son, Kenneth; sisters, Julia Jorgenson and Lena Freeman and brothers, Joe Senger and Pete Senger.

Adoracion "Dorie" Alvarez, a former teacher and principal, passes away

Public Relations — 2011-01-17 10:07:00 -0600

SALEM - Adoracion, or Dorie, Ama Alvarez entered the gates of Heaven to be with the Lord on December 29, 2010 after 78 years of blessing us with her glowing smile and warm heart. Dorie was born on October 29, 1932 to Angelina and Vicente Alvarez in Binan, Laguna, Philippines.

Dorie grew up in the Philippines, receiving her bachelor's degree from the National Teachers College. She taught at Santa Catalina College and at the School for the Deaf and the Blind before moving to North Dakota in 1962. While teaching at another school for the deaf in Devil's Lake, ND, Dorie completed her master's degree at Minot College. She then moved to Springfield, Massachusetts to teach at Clarke School for the Deaf and to complete her doctoral degree at Smith College.

Dorie moved to Oregon in 1972 to join her sister, Nellie, teaching at the Oregon School for the Deaf. Dorie led a successful career in education and retired as principal in 1997.

Dorie was a sister, an aunt, and most importantly a friend to many. She loved to travel and to sing as much as she could. Dorie's talents showed in her love for people and the Church. She was very involved in the Filipino community in the Salem-Keizer area, along with other organizations.

Dorie is survived by siblings Nellie Potterf, Hernando Alvarez, Del Alvarez, Rey Alvarez, Ellen Tompkins, and Vince Alvarez of Keizer, Or, and Edgar Alvarez of Monmouth, Or, and Buenavidez Alvarez and Ramon Alvarez of Binan, PI. She is also survived by numerous nephews and nieces and countless friends.

Viewings will be Monday, January 3 and Tuesday, January 4 from 1 pm to 7 pm at City View Funeral Home. A recitation of the rosary will be held on Tuesday, January 4 following the viewing. A funeral mass will be held at 11:00 am on Wednesday, January 5 at St. Edward's Catholic Church in Keizer, OR. Interment will follow at City View Cemetery. Arrangements are by City View Funeral Home.

Published in Statesman Journal from January 2 to January 4, 2011

Marjorie (Krueger) Golin passes away

Public Relations — 2011-01-17 09:55:00 -0600

GOLIN, Marjorie (nee Krueger) March 24, 1930 April 17, 2010 Margie passed away in her sleep at home on April 17th. We lost a part of our hearts that day. Born deaf, in Fredonia, North Dakota, she enjoyed her school years at the N.D. School for the Deaf. She moved to Chicago where she worked, married and raised a daughter. She spent the past 17 years living in Victoria with her daughter & son-in-law. Husband Sam Golin died in 1980. Margie leaves behind her daughter Gail Golin, sonin-law David Steffy; sister Betty Brosz, brothers Lloyd & Charles Krueger; sister-inlaws, nieces and nephew. She was a funloving person and a bright positive force that touched so many lives from her family, to her friends in the deaf community, to the staff & interpreters at the Island Deaf & Hard of Hearing Centre, and to her favourite hair stylist (Margie always liked her hair to look nice.) She had been happy in Victoria enjoying Dave's garden, Gail's cooking, and she loved using her video phone daily keeping in touch with her friends. Please join her family to celebrate Margie's life on Thursday, April 29th at 2:00 PM in McCall Brothers floral chapel Johnson & Vancouver Street. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Island Deaf & Hard of Hearing Centre, #300 -1627 Fort St, Victoria, BC. V8R 1H8. 586275

Glenn O. Newland, 1933-47, passes away

Public Relations — 2010-09-10 15:28:00 -0500

Glenn O. Newland age 84 of Alvarado, MN passed away on Sunday, August 29, 2010 at Valley Memorial Homes, Woodside Village in Grand Forks, ND.

Glenn Newland was born on August 15, 1926 in Driscoll, ND the son of Ole and Emma (Hansen) Newland. He attended Deaf School in Devils Lake, ND. On May 14, 1961 he was united in marriage to Leona Erdman at Trinity Lutheran Church in Minot, ND.Glenn worked construction in Minot, ND before moving to Moorhead, MN where he was going to Auto Body School. Thereafter he worked at a Body Shop in Casselton, ND and later worked at a body shop in East Grand Forks, MN. They moved to a farmstead near Oslo, MN. Glenn became disabled in 1977. In 1990 until 5 years ago he did light work for the City of Alvarado, MN. Glennattended the Deaf Worship Service at Immanuel Lutheran Church each month.

Glenn is survived by his wife Leona of Alvarado, MN, sons, Barry (Kathy) of Fredericksburg, VA, Billy (Rene) of Alvarado, MN and Bobby, (Teresa) of Grand Forks, ND, 7 grandchildren, 2 great-grandchildren, one sister, Joyce (Don) Siers in Dixon, MT along with several nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents, 2 brothers, Virgil and Clarence Newland.

Funeral Service: 2:00 P.M. Thursday, September 2, 2010 in Immanuel Lutheran Church, 1710 Cherry St., Grand Forks, ND.

Editor's note: Mr. Newland attended NDSD from 1933 to 1947. NDSD Society extends its condolences to the family of Mr. Newland.

William J. Sowden, '57, Passes Away

Public Relations — 2010-07-06 11:14:00 -0500

Sowden, William James "Bill" ATTN: TNG-CWA LOCAL 37002 Age 74, of Coon Rapids, MN passed away on 06/26/2010. Preceded in death by parents, Maurice & Angie Sowden. Bill was a 35 year employee of the Star Tribune, retiring in 1995. He was a wonderful father, grandfather, and friend. Bill loved spending his time with his family at Lake Inguadona, playing darts and traveling. His loving smile will be missed by many. Survived by sons, Wayne, John, Scott, Davin (Bev) Sowden; former spouse, Sandra Sowden; step-daughter, Angie Ferris-Lynch. Also survived by numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren and friends. Service Wednesday, July 7 at 2 pm at Washburn-McReavy Funeral Chapel, 1827 Coon Rapids Blvd., Coon Rapids, 55433. Visitation 1 hour prior to service. Luncheon following service at Coon Rapids VFW Post #9625. Arrangements with: Washburn-McReavy Funeral Chapel 763-767-1000.

Source: Star Tribune

NDSD Society's Note: Mr. Sowden passed away during the recent NDSD 120th Anniversary All-School Reunion. The society expresses its condolences to the family of Mr. Sowden.

Roger L. Berg Passes Away

Public Relations — 2010-07-06 11:03:00 -0500

Roger L. Berg, age 65, of Marshall, passed away suddenly at his residence on Monday, June 21, 2010. Funeral Services will be 11:00 A.M. Thursday, June 24, 2010 at St. Stephen Lutheran Church. Burial will be at the Neu Hutterthal Cemetery near Bridgewater, SD. Visitation will be Wednesday at 4:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. with a 6:30 P.M. prayer service at the Hamilton Funeral Home. Visitation will continue at the church one hour prior to the service at the church on Thursday. Visitation will be the Neu Hutterthal Church on Friday from 10:00 A.M. to 11:00 A.M. Friday, June 25th.

Roger Lee Berg was born to Alfred Johannas and Esther Mavis (Augustson) Berg on November 2, 1944 in Devils Lake, ND. He was baptized in a lutheran church by Egeland, ND and confirmed at St. Peters Lutheran Chuch in Devils Lake, ND and attended school at the North Dakota School for the Deaf. He went on to attend Southwest State University taking up Sociology. On September 5, 1970, Roger was united in marriage to VeAnna Marie Tschetter in Bridgewater, SD. They lived in Pierre, SD and Edgerton, MN before moving to Marshall. Roger passed away at his residence on Monday, June 21, 2010. He had reached the age of 65 years, 7 months and 19 days. He is survived by his wife, VeAnna of Marshall; four children, De Anna (Shawn) Sweeney of Luverne, Jeff (Amanda) Berg of Clearwater, FL, Mike (Nicolle) Berg of Apple Valley and Mark Berg of Bridgewater, SD; four grandchildren, Caitria, Seanan and Grace Sweeney of Luverne, and Lincoln Berg of Apple Valley; eight siblings, Alpha (Gene) Lang of Devils Lake, ND, Yvonne (Brian) Shear of Fort Collins, CO, Bruce (Kathy) Berg of Devils Lake, ND, Terry (Vicki) Berg of Fargo, ND, Eline (Jim) Kirchoffner of Tucson, AZ, Marcia (Jim) Kraft, of Saint Michael, ND, Evan Berg, of Harvey, ND and Kevin (Melissa) Berg, of Winslow, AZ; mother-in-law, Anna Tschetter, of Bridgewater, SD; and a brother-in-law, Robert Tschetter, of Bridgewater, SD. He was preceded in death by his parents, Alfred and Esther; son, Peter Andrew; and father-in-law, Peter M. Tschetter. Roger’s enjoyments in life included playing sports as a youth before becoming an avid sports spectator, especially the Twins and Vikings. He also enjoyed running as he was a member of the SSU Cross Country team and completed five marathons. He loved spending time with his children, grandchildren and many friends. Roger was an active member at St. Stephen Lutheran Church. Blessed Be The Memory of Roger Lee Berg

A Letter from Lilia Bakken, NDSD Communications Coordinator

Peggy (Frelich) Camp, '68 — 2010-05-06 12:27:00 -0500

Date: May, 2010

To: Peggy Frelich

From: Lilia Bakken, Communications Coordinator

Re: ND School for the Deaf Old Pictures from NDSD Heritage Center

Peggy, I would like to thank you again for all the wonderful work you did scanning the many, many pictures from the NDSD Heritage Center. I have seen them posted on the NDSD Society webpage and they look wonderful! They are now there for everyone to enjoy – what a wonderful opportunity you have provided for the alumni of NDSD. You have made the pictures accessible to anyone who is interested in seeing them. Many, many thanks to you and whoever else helped to post all of the pictures onto the website!

Also, thank you for donating your time to file all of the old pictures for NDSD. You have the many boxes neatly categorized and easy to locate. After you returned all of the photos to NDSD, we stored them inside the Heritage Center. The old pictures are now located in a safely locked room where no one can take them. We appreciate all the work you did to help preserve the school’s pictures.

Once again, thank you for your dedication to preserving the history of the ND School for the Deaf! We appreciate the work you and others have done!

Sincerely,

Lilia Bakken, Communications Coordinator, ND School for the Deaf

Kenneth O. Halvorson, '43, passes away

Public Relations — 2010-04-16 09:49:00 -0500

Kenneth O. Halvorson, 88, Dickinson, died Saturday, April 10, at Mercy Medical Center, Williston. Funeral services for Kenneth will be at 11 a.m., Thursday, April 15, 2010 at Ladbury Funeral Service, Dickinson with Rev. Tim Privratsky officiating. Interment will follow at Dickinson Cemetery. Visitation will be from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m., Thursday at Ladbury Funeral Service.

Kenneth O. Halvorson was born March 25, 1922 on the family farmstead in Mountrail County in North Dakota, the son of Ed and Marie (Kirkebon) Halvorson. He attended school at Devils Lake School for the Deaf until he graduated.

Kenneth married Joyce Wooten on October 22, 1949 in Bismarck. They moved to Kenneth’s family farm near White Earth, where they raised their family and owned a small grain and cattle farm. They moved to Dickinson in 1979 where he worked for Wyoming Casing Service until his retirement. Kenneth also loved to garden and support his favorite baseball team, the Minnesota Twins.

Kenneth is survived by three children, Pam Walter, Williston, Steve (Londa) Halvorson, and Clifton Halvorson, Dickinson; 12 grandchildren, Mark (Callie) Halvorson, Chet (Michelle) Halvorson, Carla (Craig) Sanner, Josh Olson, Mariah Chavez, Zachary Olson, Jason (Beth) Walter, Danea Zaste, Ira (Amy) Walter, Kristie (Jerome) Joyce, Chad Halvorson and Nathan (Kristie) Halvorson; 20 great-grandchildren; and one brother, Clifford (Leona) Halvorson, White Earth. He was preceded in death by his wife, Joyce on April 4, 1997; his parents; one sister; one brother; two infant siblings; and his daughter-in-law, Tina Halvorson.

Note: Donna Halvorson, '80, is Kenneth Halvorson's niece.

Valerie Wald, '76, passes away

Public Relations — 2010-03-23 12:09:00 -0500

Valerie Wald, 54, Minot, ND, formerly of Karlsruhe, ND, died Sunday, March 21, 2010, in a Minot hospital.

Valerie Jo Wald was born January 3, 1956, a daughter of Ambrose and Kathryn (Feist) Wald, in Minot, ND. She was raised in Karlsruhe and attended elementary and high school at the ND School for the Deaf in Devils Lake, ND, graduating in 1976.

She became a client of the Minot Vocational Adjustment Workshop doing various jobs which included sorting mail at the Minot Air Force Base, cleaning offices, evaluating books and listing them for sale on Amazon.com, and volunteer work within the group home.

Since 1976, she lived in apartments and group homes associated with the MVAW. In October of 2009, due to her declining health, she became a resident of ManorCare Health Services.

She was a former member of Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, Karlsruhe.
She attended St. Leo’s Catholic Church of Minot. In most recent years, she enjoyed Interpretive Sign Language services at Our Redeemer’s Church of Minot.

She was an avid Minnesota Viking Fan and even attended a game. She enjoyed family gatherings, food, and watching TV game shows.

A special thank you to the staff and residents of the Minot Vocational Adjustment Workshop, the staff of ManorCare, and the staff of Trinity Hospital for your kindness and special care given to Valerie.

Her loving family includes: sisters, Audrey Engelhard, Minot, Mildred (Charlie) Bartsch, Minot, Lindamarie Koengeter, Washington, DC, Sandy (Carl) Valensky, Waterford, MI, and Mona (Marvin) Miller, Velva; brothers, Donald (Bertha) Wald, Minot, Robert (Carolyn Shelley) Wald, Austin, TX, and Brian (Bonnie) Wald, Minot; sister-in-law, Gerri Wald, Sioux Falls, SD; God-Father, Dan Feist, Minot; and numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.

Valerie was preceded in death by her parents; infant brother, Patrick; brother, Tim Wald; nephew, Brent Bartsch; great-nephew, Matt Danielson; great-niece, Lindsey Cunningham; and her God-Mother, Marian Engelhard.

Mass of Christian Burial: Thursday, March 25, 2010, at 11:00 a.m. at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, Karlsruhe.

Interment: Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Cemetery, Karlsruhe, ND.

Visitation: Wednesday from 2 to 5 p.m. at Thompson-Larson Funeral Home, Minot.

Vigil Prayer Service: Wednesday at 7 p.m. at St. John the Apostle Catholic Church, Minot.

Memorials: are preferred to the Minot Vocational Workshop or to Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Cemetery, Karlsruhe.

Chester Charles Logan (retired staff member) passes away

James Johnson, '85 — 2010-03-02 08:02:00 -0600

Chester C. Logan, 91 of Arthur, ND formerly of Calvin and Devils Lake, ND died on Sunday, February 14, 2010 at the Arthur Good Samaritan Center.

Funeral Services for Chester will be held at the Gilbertson Funeral Home, Devils Lake on Friday, February 19, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. with Rev. Bruce Dick officiating. Burial will be in the spring in the Glenila Presbyterian Cemetery, rural Calvin, ND. Visitation will be held on Thursday at the funeral home from 2:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m with the family present from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Visitation on Friday will be from 9:00 a.m. until time of service.

Serving as Casket Bearers for Chester will be Todd Logan, Darren Logan, Shawn Meland-Logan, Chad Perdue, Travis Perdue and Tanner Logan. Music will be provided by Trudy Dick.

Chester Charles Logan was born on June 11, 1918 at Antler, ND the son of William and Zora (Perry) Logan. He began elementary school in Antler and then moved with his family to the Calvin area and graduated from Calvin High School. After graduating, Chester farmed with his Dad in the Calvin area.

Chester was united in marriage to Phyllis “Elaine” Mortimer on April 18, 1942 at Cando, ND. They established their home on the farm in rural Calvin and here is where they lived, worked and raised their family. In 1969 they moved to Devils Lake and Chester worked as the custodian at the North Dakota School for the Deaf. He later worked at Trails West Motel and retired from there at the age of 80. In 2006, Chester and Elaine moved to the Arthur Good Samaritan Center. Elaine passed away on December 25, 2008.

While living in Calvin, Chester was a member of the Glenila Presbyterian Church and after moving to Devils Lake became a member of the Westminster Presbyterian Church. He was also a very active member of the Odd Fellows-Crofton Lodge.

Chester was truly a master gardener. He garden consisted of acres, not rows of every kind of vegetable and fruit he could possibly grow. Cantaloupe was his specialty crop and was in great demand by friends and neighbors as well as the local supermarkets. Chester was a “tinkerer” and could fix just about anything. He enjoyed ice fishing with his brother and time with his dear family was always special.

Chester is survived by his loving family; his sons, Robert “Bob” Logan and wife, Linda of Hunter, ND, Don Logan and wife, Vicki of Devils Lake and Arthur Logan of West Fargo, ND; five grandchildren, Todd Logan, Robin (Shawn Meland-Logan) Logan, Darren (Ruth) Logan, Chad(Amber Wulff) Perdue and Travis Perdue; eight great grandchildren, Tanner, Desiree, Alyssa, Owen, Brooklyn, Kimberly, Tiffany and LeAnn; brother, John Logan of Devils Lake and sister-in-law, Iris Logan of Colton, California.

Chester was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Elaine; children Phyllis and Billy in infancy and his brother, Ken Logan.

Source: Gilbertson Funeral Home

Jon Ronald Hong, '69, passes away

Public Relations — 2010-02-22 19:52:00 -0600

Jon Ronald Hong, 59, was born on June 17, 1950 in Fargo ND to Percy and Mildred (Miller) Hong. He attended schools in Fargo and NDSD, graduating from NDSD in 1969. He then attended and graduated from Gallaudet University in 1977 and was a member and one of the presidents of Theta NU Tau (ONT) Fraternity. On April 15, 1978, he married his college sweetheart, Brenda Fairfax and they soon moved to Big Spring, TX. Brenda worked at the Southwest Collegiate Institute for the Deaf for a brief period and Jon worked as the supply clerk at the Veteran’s Administration Hospital for almost 28 years. Brenda was diagnosed with muscular dystrophy and passed away on May 18, 1991. Jon continued living and working in Big Spring until his unexpected death from a heart attack on February 16, 2010 in his home.

Jon loved the outdoors so spending many summers at Lake Eunice in Minnesota with his family fitted him well. Everyone who knew him as a young boy remembers him regularly looking for turtles at the lake’s “turtle place.”

All living creatures were candidates to become Jon’s pets. In our home, we had sea horses, iguanas, chameleons, baby alligators, guinea pigs, hamsters and many others. We remember him sneaking a kitten into his Gallaudet dorm room, where he kept it until he could bring it home to Fargo.

Friends and family enjoyed Jon’s wit and his love for practical jokes. He loved staying in contact with family and friends around the country via email, cell phone/pager texting, and video phone. We miss his daily emails, telling us about his day or sharing a joke or funny story.

Memorial services were held at the Big Spring VA chapel on Tue, Feb 23, and on Fri, Feb 26, at the Hillcrest Baptist Church where Jon was a faithful member. We have been comforted with love and sympathy from his VA friends, his long-time landlord, his house repairman, and his pastor and church family.

Jon was a quiet, gentle, loving, and respectful man with ready smile for everyone. Our hearts ache with the loss of our dear brother, uncle, nephew, cousin, and friend, but know that he is with his wife, sister- Janet, twin sisters-Jane Ann and Joan Ann, parents, grandparents and many other family and friends who have gone before him. He is survived by his two sisters, Cindy Clow and husband Allen of Lancaster, MN, and Barbara Hong Richardson and husband Mont of Woodland Hills, CA, as well as nieces and nephews, uncles and aunts, and many friends. Our lives have been enriched by knowing and loving Jon and he will be missed.

Blaine Lemieux, '59, passes away

James Johnson, '85 — 2010-01-18 06:29:00 -0600

PAUL BLAINE LEMIEUX

June 5, 1940 ~ Jan. 9, 2010

Paul Blaine LeMieux died on Saturday, January 9th after a two year battle with cancer he was 69. He is survived by his son, Jack; brother, Allen; sisters, Devona, Lee, Mary; and thirty nieces and nephews. Preceded by father, David; mother, Helen; brother, Robert; and sister, Theresa. Blaine was born in Stanley, North Dakota. He attended the North Dakota school for the deaf in Devils Lake. Blaine graduated from Gallaudet University in Washington D.C. in 1964. He was an avid nature lover and enjoyed hiking, backpacking and skiing. He retired to Vancouver, WA ten years ago. He was an active member of the deaf community.

Paul will be loved and missed by all who knew him.

The LeMieux family would like to thank and praise everyone who works with Hospice South West and the Ray Hickey Hospice House. The family will have a private memorial this summer.

Welcome to the newly designed NDSD Society website!

James Johnson, '85 — 2009-11-13 10:40:00 -0600

NDSD Society

Public Relations — 2009-10-15 08:43:00 -0500

By James L. Johnson (published in The NDAD News, Fall 2009 issue

It is with acknowledgment that the NDSD Society has not been as visible as it should have been since

the last all-school reunion in 2005 but be assured that officers along with several supporters have worked

hard together to ensure the State of North Dakota is not rushing to a decision that could have adverse impacts

on the education of future generations of deaf and hard of hearing children.

Directed by the 2007 North Dakota Legislature the Higher Education committee composed of legislators

studied and discussed NDSD’s future for two years. Thanks to a few loyal supporters the Society was able

to keep abreast of what has transpired during many committee meetings to understand intentions of the

Department of Public Instruction. The committee met at NDSD on May 21, 2008 and Jerry Geist presented

the Society’s position on NDSD, facts about NDSD alumni, issues, concerns and ideas which were well-

received by the committee - the Society believes the committee understood the issues and concerns brought

forth by the Society.

During the 2009 legislative session efforts to continue the task force study failed, and instead the House Bill 1013 was proposed and passed to create the NDSD Future Services Plan Transition Team. The Society will continue to ensure NDSD’s educational future in whatever the plan the team comes up with.

The NDSD Society website has been more dormant than we would like it to be. It is also not as dynamic as we’d like so we have decided to contract with a web hosting service provider to set up a member-driven multimedia website, and we hope to launch the new website by mid-November so keep your eyes on the upcoming new website!

NDSD Future Services Plan Transition Team

Public Relations — 2009-10-15 08:38:00 -0500

Published in The NDAD News, Fall 2009 issue

Passed by the 2009 North Dakota Legislature House Bill 1013, Section 19 stipulates that the Department of Public Instruction (DPI) and NDSD shall develop a plan for future services to be offered by NDSD and begin implementing the plan for the biennium beginning July 1, 2009 and ending June 30, 2011. Furthermore the bill states that DPI and NDSD shall meet regularly with a transition team appointed by the Superintendent of Public Instruction consisting of representation from the legislative assembly, parents of school for the deaf students, school for the deaf employees, members of the Devils Lake community, school for the deaf alumni, and others.

Michele Rolewitz, NDAD President, and I have been appointed by Dr. Wayne Sanstead, Superintendent of Public Instruction to represent NDAD and NDSD Society respectively. I believe we are the only two deaf representatives on the team of 10 members who will:

1. review the needs of all deaf and hearing-impaired persons throughout the state and develop a plan to

provide comprehensive outreach services to all North Dakota citizens who are deaf or hearing-impaired;

2. explore the development of partnerships with other states relating to the provision of residential and

educational services to individuals who are deaf or hearing-impaired;

3. review current research and national trends in the provision of services to students who are deaf or

hearing-impaired;

4. explore the feasibility of implementing revenue-generating activities at the school for the deaf; and

5. develop a long-range site and facility plan for the school for the deaf campus.

While intentions of the bill are too broad to make any definite interpretation until the transition team begin meeting monthly on October 29 in Bismarck, it may be obvious to you, dear readers and NDSD alumni, that the Legislative assembly is not really going to close NDSD but to expand the scope of NDSD mission to serve deaf and hard of hearing individuals of ALL ages. Also NDSD is expected to go into business of making money providing services, probably both current and new. Partnering with other states to provide services will have to benefit NDSD and the State of North Dakota, not the other way around. Lastly I wouldn’t be surprised to hear proposals to utilize facilities, both current and new, for the purposes other than educating deaf and hard of hearing children.

The team will first meet in Bismarck on October 29 and meet there every month thereafter until May 2010. I will post a vlog on the NDSD Society website after each meeting to keep you appraised of everything that was discussed. To help Michelle and I better represent our respective organizations I urge you to email, write or videophone us to share your opinions, concerns, ideas and issues and we will make sure the team HEARD you because you have BEEN THERE AND DONE THAT as a NDSD student as well as being a deaf North Dakota citizen.

Note: Johnson’s opinion is solely his personal opinion which is not necessarily the NDAD’s nor NDSD Society’s

opinion.

Deaf School Gets Unusual Visitor

Public Relations — 2009-10-01 08:24:00 -0500

Deaf School Gets Unusual Visitor

By Staff reports
Devils Lake Journal
Thursday, October 1, 2009

The excitement for the morning at the North Dakota School for the Deaf was interrupted by a passing visitor. This large animal has not been seen by most of the students except through pictures and TV. The kids ran from door to door trying to catch a glimpse of the visitor. They were amazed by his size. They have had a lot of visitors this week in recognition of "Deaf Awareness Week" but none quite as unique as this --- a moose! “The expressions on the faces of our students were absolutely priceless!” said one of the school’s employees, Technology Coordinator Kerry Olson-Rysavy.

William Hartl, '33, passes away

Public Relations — 2009-04-18 08:29:00 -0500

William “Willie” Hartl, 95 of Devils Lake formerly of Bremen, ND died on Thursday morning, April 16, 2009 at Heartland Care Center, Devils Lake.

Mass of Christian Burial for William will be held on Tuesday, April 21, 2009 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Devils Lake. Fr. Dale Kinzler will celebrate the Mass and burial will be in St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery, rural Bremen in the spring.

Visitation will be held at the Gilbertson Funeral Home, Devils Lake on Monday from 2:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. with a Rosary and Scripture Service at 7:00 p.m. The Rosary will be led by the Knights of Columbus. Honor Guard will be provided by the 4th Degree Knights of Columbus. Visitation on Tuesday will be at the church one hour prior to the funeral Mass.

Serving as Casket Bearers for William will be Kevin Regan, Dale Regan, John Hitz, Gene Hartl, George Lies and Jason LaFontaine. Reading Sacred Scriptures will be Cheryl Hefta; Gift Bearers will be Dianne Goebel and Agnes Olson; Music will be provided by Kevin Regan and JoDee Lagein; Interpreter will be Lilia Bakken.

William Hartl, son of William and Frances (Dusek) Hartl, was born October 6, 1913 in Bremen Township, North Dakota where he attended country school until the 6th grade. He graduated from high school at School for the Deaf, Devils Lake. He attended special classes at hearing colleges in Wisconsin, Oregon and Arizona. He started his career at School for the Deaf by working on the school farm, then as a bus driver and later Instructor of Industrial Arts for a total of 39 years. He taught sign language to the Sisters who taught religion classes to the deaf children at the school.

William traveled to Mexico, Europe, Czechoslovakia and many trips across the United States. He was an expert in wood working, upholstery, and furniture building, leaving examples of his work with his many relatives and friends.

William was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, the 4th Degree Knights of Columbus and was involved in many activities concerning the deaf children, serving as President of the North Dakota Association of the Deaf at one time. He also was an active member of the Elks Lodge.

“Uncle Willie” will be remembered for his generosity and kindness.

He leaves one sister, Frances Hitz of Bremen. Forty-five nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers, Edmund and Albert Hartl; sisters, Henrietta Toay, Hermina Lies, Agnes Hartl and Georgia Walters.

Good Friends (Edith McAllen Melby, '28)

James Johnson, '85 — 2008-11-09 17:28:00 -0600

By Mavis Gonshorowski

For the Greenbush Tribune

On Thursday afternoons, Edith Melby (McAllen, NDSD '28) eagerly awaits the visit of a very special young friend, Mason Johnson.

Their conversation is ever so quiet. You see, both Edith and Mason are hearing and speech impaired. Signing with the speed and movement of butterfly wings, their facial expressions clearly show they treasure their friendship bond.

Edith is an almost 97-year-old resident of the Greenbush Community Nursing Home, which is a department of Roseau Area Hospital and Homes. Born in Minneapolis, she was stricken at the age of two with German measles and scarlet fever, leaving her imapired. At the age of four, she moved with her family to Minot, ND.

Edith clearly remembers the day her mother took her to a school for the deaf at Devils Lake, N.D. She was only seven. Never explaining to Edith that she would be left there or why, her mother turned and walked away. Bewildered and frightened, Edith went running to catch her. "Why are you leaving me here?" thoughts raced through her mind. Three boys carried her back to the school. The school superintendent took Edith home to be with him and his family that day and tried to explain what was going on. Throughout her time spent there, Edith was able to make trips home for visits on holidays, traveling by train. She graduated from the school in 1928.

Edith smiles when she tells of she and her husband Ingman meeting at a picnic for the deaf in Fargo. It was "love at first sight" she signs. They enjoyed 39 years of marriage.

The Melbys lived on a farm close to Badger, Minn., in later years moving into Greenbush. It was there at the Former M & Q Cafe that Edith washed dishes...for 10 years!

Her eyes saddened at the mention of their children. Jane passed away several years ago. Following James's passing last year, Edith took up residence at the nursing home. Currently struggling with macular degeneration, which has caused the loss of sight in her left eye, she is very concerned about retaining sight in her right eye.

Who couldn't help but love sweet little young-at-heart Edith!

Most Thursday afternoons, a volunteer group of school students, "Kandy Kids," pays visits to the nursing home residents. Among this group is a bubbly, cute-as-a-bug, Mason Johnson.

Mason lives in Middle River, Minn., with his parents, Tammy and Delroy, and sister Megan. In the second grade at Greenbush-Middle River School, his homeroom teacher is Gail Holmes. Also working with Mason and fellow students - who are deaf and hard of hearing - two to three times a week to help them adapt curriculum to meet their needs, are Karen Dvergsten and Michelle Janicke. Char Kappes is Mason's very valuable interpreter. Char also works with the other students teaching them to sign.

"This is wonderful for Mason's sake," stated Tammy. "His fellow students always make sure he is looked after. We are so happy to have Mason educated here."

Karen Dvergsten kindly came to interpret for us during our visit. Courtney Evans, a student who is also learning sign language, joined us.

Born 16 weeks prematurely, Mason weighed 1 pound, 6 ounces. Because of extreme immaturity, he suffered profound hearing loss. Not until six years of age was he properly diagnosed. Mason began learning sign language at the age of two, being taught by Deb Davidson, Early Education Childhood teacher.

Was it difficult to cope with his impairments?

"No," Tammy said, "because of the numerous medical problems Mason experienced, we still have so much to be thankful for."

Mason was fitted with proper hearing aides 2 1/2 years ago. His hearing is minimal in a one-to-one conversation, providing there is no outside disruptive noise.

Tammy and Delroy have taken signing lessons. They say, "Because of Mason, we are grateful for having met so many wonderful people."

Last fall, while visiting Delroy's late uncle, Ed Stromlund at the Nursing Home, MASON FOUND EDITH! Talk about finding a "diamond in the rough!" If he could, Mason would visit Edith every day. "She's a wonderful grandmother," he signs. Now the Johnson family visits Delroy's aunt, Gladys Rud. You can just about guess where you will Mason Johnson!

Leaving the nursing home, I was counting my blessings and thinking about Edith and Mason ... "About the time you feel life has handed you a bowl full of pits, you meet someone who has received a much larger portion. It's what you choose to do with them that counts."

This story is reprinted here with permission of the New River Record.

Leone Tharaldson, '47, passes away

Public Relations — 2008-11-03 09:27:00 -0600

Leone Tharaldson, 80, Bismarck, died Saturday, November 1, 2008. Services will be held at 10:30 am Friday, November 7, 2008, at First LutheranChurch, Bismarck, with Rev. Allen Wagner and Pastoral Intern Rose Trenbeath officiating. Burial will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Bismarck.

Visitation will be held from 6:00 pm until 9:00 pm Thursday, November 6, 2008, at Eastgate Funeral Service, Bismarck, and will continue one hour prior to the service.

She was born Leone Loritz in Hebron,ND, on December 1, 1927. She grew up in a family of three brothers and four sisters. She met Ray Tharaldson when they were students at the Deaf School inDevils Lake, ND. They were married for more than fifty years. Ray and Leone had two children, Peggy and Ardell. When Leone, who came from a strong German family married Ray, who was a Norwegian from Fargo, some of the family called it a “mixed marriage.” She was a loving wife, mother, and grandmother. Leone was a housewife and active member of the deaf community throughout her life.

Leone is survived by her son, Ardell; her daughter, Peggy; two grandchildren, Travis (Monique) and Ryan and her great granddaughter, Emma; her brothers, Victor (Mary), Alvin (Pat), and Harold (Marge); and her sisters, Loretta, Vernice, and Mavis (Wilbert).

She was preceded in death by her husband, Ray Tharaldson and her parents.

She will be missed by all.

Memorials may be given to the North Dakota Association of the Deaf.

Philip Frelich, '36 , passes away

Public Relations — 2006-12-06 08:33:00 -0600

Philip Frelich, a loyal NDSD alumnus and father of nine NDSD alumni, passed away on December 2, 2006. Philip's funeral will be held at Gilbertson Funeral Home on Thursday, December 7. Click on "Read More" below to read the NDSD Society's tribute to Philip.

In loving memory of Philip Frelich

The NDSD Society offers deepest, heartfelt condolences to the family of Philip Frelich who left this world peacefully on December 2, 2006. On behalf of all NDSD (North Dakota School for the Deaf) students, alumni, faculty, staff, and parents of students and alumni, the NDSD Society would like to pay a tribute to Philip and express thanks for his loving care and support for NDSD throughout his life.

Philip would come by the school regularly - almost daily, in fact - accompanied by his wife, Esther, also a NDSD alumnae, and their nine children; Phyllis, Dennis, Merrill, Shirley, Peggy, Timothy, Priscilla, Pamela, and Daryl. Philip gave his full support to NDSD in the areas of education, vocation and sports. He offered valuable advice to parents of NDSD students who had questions or concerns in raising deaf children. Philip would sometimes bring his camera and take photographs around the campus. Some of these photographs can now be found on the NDSD Society website which was added by his daughters.

Philip and Esther’s children are the epitome of how deaf children could be raised just like any other children and be successful in their adulthood. As a positive role model to parents of other NDSD students, Philip and Esther offered valuable advice to the other parents who had questions or concerns in raising deaf children. In addition to contributing to the supportive environment at NDSD, their nine children attended the school where every student learned to communicate our ideas and emotions, socialize properly, compete fairly and squarely on the court and field, and to study hard. As a result, many NDSD students from the Frelich era have moved on to successful lives at work and at home.

Again, the NDSD Society thanks Philip for all the support, love, and care he showed for NDSD. Our hearts, thoughts and prayers are with Esther and the nine children during this most difficult time. We will always have a place in our heart for Philip Frelich. God bless him. We will miss him dearly.

Interim NDSD Superintendent Named

Public Relations — 2005-06-19 08:35:00 -0500

North Dakota School for the Blind Superintendent has been named the North Dakota School for the Deaf interim Superintendent

From the newsroom of the Grand Forks Herald, Grand Forks, North Dakota, Thursday, June 16, 2005 .....

Suminski named interim School for Deaf superintendent

JAMES MacPHERSON
Associated Press

BISMARCK, N.D. - The head of the North Dakota School for the Blind has taken over as interim superintendent for the state's School for the Deaf.

Carmen Grove Suminski began her additional duties on Wednesday. She replaces Rocky Cofer, who resigned for personal reasons last month after 10 years with the Devils Lake-based School for the Deaf.

Suminski said she will work with Cofer during the transition.

"I am not expert in deafness," she said. "I am in blindness."

Suminski will continue to be based out of Grand Forks, at the School for the Blind. She said she will visit the school in Devils Lake regularly, including meetings on Monday with the staff and on May 24 with alumni, students and families.

Cofer had served as both superintendent and director of education. A search is under way for a new education director, a position responsible for onsite management and curriculum. The job should be filled in about a month, Suminski said.

State School Superintendent Wayne Sanstead said he does not know when a permanent superintendent will be sought.

"That's going to be a matter for down the road," Sanstead said. "I have no intention of putting (Suminski) in the role permanently. This is clearly an interim position. I'm just happy she's willing to do it."

Suminski has been at the School for the Blind since 1991. She said that job has enabled her to meet some of the School for the Deaf's faculty, which includes about 10 full- and part-time teachers.

"I have the advantage of knowing several members of the school and I really respect them and their expertise in deafness," Suminski said. "I am wanting to work with them to make the best possible situation."

Sanstead and Suminski said it is important that the campus remain open, but that it faces a difficult future as the number of children statewide declines and more focus is placed on educating all children in public school settings.

"There is no agenda to close it," Suminski said. "It serves a very vital purpose to the state and for deaf students and their families. That needs to continue - but it may not in the same way as we see it today."

A task force in 2003 recommended three alternatives for the school:

_Continue with current operations, with a focus on increasing enrollment;

_Collaborate more with other governmental entities in the region to reduce costs;

_Focus more on outreach services, with fewer on-campus programs.

This past school year, the School for the Deaf had 27 students in preschool through 12th grade, and only one graduate.

"It's evident more and more districts are serving students with deaf needs," Sanstead said.

Copyright 2005 Grand Forks Herald

Letter to NDSD Alumni 5/24/2005

Public Relations — 2005-05-24 08:38:00 -0500

May 24, 2005 letter to alumni in response to ND State School Supt. Sanstead's comment related to NDSD Supt. Cofer's resignation Dear NDSD Alumni, As most of you already know that Rocky Cofer, NDSD Superintendent announced his resignation last week. A newspaper article quoted Dr. Wayne Sanstead, the State School Superintendent, "Sanstead said he didn't know when or if a replacement would be sought. He said the future of the school is in question because enrollment has declined in recent years." Sanstead's comment is alarming because he is hinting that the North Dakota School for the Deaf may ACTUALLY close in the near future. You can read the article in its entirety at http://www.grandforks.com/mld/grandforks/11689933.htm Did you know that the State of North Dakota can come up with creative ways to continue NDSD's historic role in educating deaf and hard of hearing children? Oh yes, they could but they are not doing this. The NDSD Society wants to help the State to come up with a better plan. Among several reasons, the possibility of closing the North Dakota School for the Deaf led to the establishment of the NDSD Society, a non-profit organization dedicated to preservance and advocacy of the North Dakota School for the Deaf as an educational institution and a viable educational choice for deaf and hard of hearing children in the State of North Dakota. The Society is open to all NDSD alumni, parents of NDSD students and alumni, NDSD staff and teachers, and supporters. No membership due is required. Voluntary action and financial support from those fine folks will help the NDSD Society preserve NDSD's historic role in deaf education in the State of North Dakota. During the all-school reunion at NDSD in Devils Lake, a presentation and question & answer session on the new organization will be conducted on Friday night. You are urged to attend the presentation and session to learn more what you can do for the Society and what the Society can do for NDSD. We need to come to a decision what path the NDSD Society should take in the next several years to ensure NDSD's historic role continues in North Dakota. Your participation at the 2005 All-School Reunion could not be more important than ever in the history. You can be assured the Devils Lake Journal will publish an article or two about our concerns and what NDSD meant to us. What can you do now? Register for the reunion and come to show the Devils Lake community as well as the State of North Dakota how much you care about NDSD. The more alumni show up at the reunion the better! We are aiming for more than 200 or 250 alumni at the reunion. The deadline for NDSD Reunion registration is approaching fast! This coming Saturday, May 28th is the deadline for early bird registration fee of $60. The fee will increase $5.00 to $65.00 between May 28th and June 15th. At door registration fee will be $70.00. As long as your letter is postmarked May 28th, we will accept $60 registration fees. Attached is the registration form and revised schedule for the reunion. Proceeds from the reunion will be used to advance the NDSD Society's mission to protect NDSD against the state government's ignorance about NDSD's historic role. Additional support in the form of financial and voluntary action from alumni, parents, staff and teachers will also boost the Society's efforts. Any question about the reunion registration, please contact Bobby Balzer, '77 at rrbalzer@comcast.net. See you at the reunion! Bobby Balzer, '77, Reunion Co-Chairperson and NDSD Society Co-Founder Laura Sagstuen, '98, Reunion Co-Chairperson James L. Johnson, '85, NDSD Society Co-Founder P.S. Please forward this important message to all NDSD alumni, staff and teachers (both current and retired) in your address book. Thanks!