Class of ‘62 returns to MHS

MEEKER I The graduating class of Meeker High School, 1962, gathered in Meeker, Colo., on Aug. 3 and 4 to celebrate a 50-year class reunion, accompanied by spouses or other family members. Friday, Aug. 4, about 25 classmates and spouses gathered at the Meeker Cafe for dinner, sharing stories and reminiscing about the high school years.
Saturday afternoon, many class members toured the Meeker High School, reviewed the class photo boards of their classmates and classes before and after the class of 1962. Class members were somewhat surprised and pleased to see the changes and additions to the school as well as the new elementary and middle school nearby. A lot of stories were exchanged in the auditorium, remembering numerous events that affected and shaped their lives. Later in the evening, the group gathered at the Meeker Golf Course for dinner, pictures and entertainment.
Badges with names and graduation pictures were provided to enable easy comparison of 50 years of changes. A board displaying the pictures of classmates that have passed on and those unable to attend enabled those gathered to remember them as well. Tom Pilkington, acting as emcee, paid tribute to those classmates who have passed on and recounted a number of class “experiences.” An invocation was offered by John McKinnon, followed by an excellent dinner catered by the Meeker Golf Course staff. Several class members provided a brief synopsis of their lives since graduation and a few stories were told as well. Tributes were offered to teachers Ethel Starbuck and Dale Jens for the excellent education and training received from them.
Sandy (Rector) Taylor, read a letter from Paula (Jensen) Riley and gave an update on several other class members who were unable to attend. Entertainment was provided by classmate Sally (Watt) Smith, singing a song entitled “Where did I leave my keys” and other conditions that affect us all in senior years; followed by some storytelling by another classmate, Ruth Mary (Franklin) Allison. The class received an excellent education at Meeker High School and were impressed by the many accomplishments of its members.
Those in attendance agreed to make a contribution to the school from the graduating class of 1962 to be used for some items that may not be covered by the school budget. Following a benediction by Sandy Taylor, we adjourned, agreeing to meet again in five years.
The Class of ‘62 expresses appreciation to Sandy (Rector) Taylor, Tom and Mary (Sutton) Pilkington, Sherry Klinglesmith and Frances (Beck) Brown for the efforts to organize this 50-year celebration, contacting each classmate and the numerous other details. Thanks also to Bob Amick (Class of ‘61) for providing the sound system and video recording of the night’s festivities.