(To Joyce Yokomizo)
Dear Joyce:      
I’ve thought of a lot of my classmates over the years, especially those who weren’t still here to make it to past reunions. I went all through  grammar school, Jr. high and high school with KB, Kent Holland –  Kent Bridgeman Holland Jr. the Third, as he liked to announce himself to the rest of us.  We were in Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts together. And band, he played trombone and I played the trumpet, except he was pretty good at it and I was terrible. We drifted into different groups in high school, but as I look at his picture in the pages of the OHS Memoriam, I hope he knew he was still my friend!  He was only 20 years old when he left us.  Twenty damn it, just 20!!!  I’m 78 now, so it’s been 58 years since I could have seen my friend, since I last had a chance to tell him we were still pals.       

However, the one I have the most trouble with when I look at those Memoriam pictures is Susan Raie Braghetta. Susan, who didn’t walk like the rest of us, who couldn’t run at all and sometimes didn’t quite talk the same as we did. Just another one of our classmates who most of us were too busy to recognize or say hi to often enough.   Did she have dreams of her own?  Did she want to be a song girl or a cheer leader, or how about one of those synchronized swimmers performing their water ballet?       

I remember Craig Fletcher following her down the hall and shouting “Braghetta eats bugs” or “Braghetta’s a spaz”, and she would cry out in a shrill high pitched shriek that sounded like she had been jabbed with a spear.  One day I had enough of it and I told Susan I was going to have a talk with Craig and not to worry because he wasn’t going to treat her like that anymore.  But she put her hand on my arm and said please don’t, that she and Craig had been classmates a long time and he really meant no harm, that he was her friend.  I realized at that moment that what I saw as torment, she welcomed as recognition!     

Was she a gifted student? She may have been but we’ll never know.  How about a singer or a dancer, or maybe an athlete?  She never had a chance. Well then was she among the strongest – now that depends on what we’re talking about. Strength lifting weights or swimming, of course not. But if we were to define strength as courage or fortitude and determination, then she wasn’t just among the strongest of us – she was probably the strongest of all of us!  Some have lived long enough to witness that kind of strength, the kind that wills your body to get out of bed in the morning, even though it takes you 10 minutes to do so. The kind of determination that won’t allow you to quit even though for 20 minutes you’ve been struggling to button your blouse.  If they handed out an award at our graduation for courage, who other than Susan would have been our rock star!     

Did she go to a prom?  I don’t remember but I hope so.  If she did I wish I had danced with her. And we didn’t have a lot of classes together, but in one of them we sat across the aisle from one another and most days she said very little. However, once in a while she became talkative, sometimes surprisingly so, maybe because that was a rare day when she was feeling good.  On some of those days she would even tease those around her a little, and once in a while it was my turn.  “I saw you run that race last Friday and I can beat you, you know,” she would say with a big smile. “I’m a faster runner than you are, big boy, and you better watch out because one of these days when you look up you’re  gonna just see me come a-runnin’.”     

If I remember correctly it was cerebral palsy. Some of the girls knew what it was and they would tell the boys that Susan had CP, and we would nod our heads like we knew what the hell they were talking about – but of course we didn’t.  I guess only Susan really knew. How old was she when she realized that she wasn’t going to live to go to college, or be an actress or a writer, or marry and have children? Did the pain that must have racked her body every day we were at school hurt as much as the pain of knowing that none of her dreams would ever come true?  When she laid in a hospital bed while the rest of us went off to the rest of our lives, did she know she would never see her 19th birthday?      

I remember the stores were dressed up for Christmas when the phone rang.  I think it was Linda Piva who called me – though it may have been Janice Blakeston.  Anyway, the calls went out and it seemed as if we were all there in the church at the top of Lincoln Avenue because there was standing room only: The smart kids and the rest of us, our teachers and counselors, and her family and neighbors. I’m sure Susan was there also, looking down on all of us, and I hope she was pleased to see that we showed up, because for once it wasn’t for anyone else – we were all there just for her.         

Sometimes I have this daydream.  St. Peter has ushered me through Heaven’s Gate and there are a lot of people there to meet me, people who I’ve known throughout my lifetime. They arrive in groups, and one of those is from back in the day at Oakland High. My old pal Kent Bridgeman Holland Jr. the Third is there, still playing that damn trombone. So is Mike Phelan, Joe King and Duncan Kilpatrick.  And Linda Piva, looking as pretty as she always did when we were young.  But the one who is always out in front of the group, the one the rest can’t even keep up with as they run to greet me, is Susan Braghetta; our classmate Susan, who could never walk quite right, the one who would never be a cheer leader, a swimmer or song girl, or a dancer.  But in my daydream its ok, because she’s out in front, I mean way out in front, and she has a big smile on her face -- because this time she really does come a-runnin’.    

It would be nice if at the 60th reunion -- 60 years later but not 60 years too late –someone would remember our classmate from long ago, Susan Raie Braghetta.                                

If God had wanted me otherwise,                        
He would have created me otherwise.                                
Johann Wolfgang von Goethe                

I sure hope I will be able to attend the 60th (Whew) OHS Reunion.  Am in contact or will attempt to check in with the following OHS Classmates : with NINA BREEN MUEHLEN,  JAN PAUL OLSEN & JUDITH KROLSKI-PHEBUS .  Jan & Judith both also live in Las Vegas. These and myself are all on Facebook also.    

I am pleased and excited to be able to attend the 60th OHS'59 Class Reunion and Events. Will be with Judye Phebus (Krolski) and possibly another Classmate.  Will be very interesting and delightful as I think the last Reunion was the 20th?  Anyway so looking forward to it !! Lvrichsan@aol.com     

It is with excitment I will return for our 60th reunion this year and share in memories with many.  I have been married to Marshall Sneiderman 45 years - a second marriage for both of us.  Together we have 5 children, 15 grandchildren and two greats.  We have traveled and now live in Maryland.  

Dear OHS friends,                                               May 11, 2019

Wishing each and everyone many blessings and greetings. I am now 78 years of age and am putting up with old age.  I guess the Good Lord still has a reason why I am still here. 
I will not be able to travel much any more so I will miss the wonderful
reunions which look great.  I hope that all of you who attend will remember our wonderful friends no longer with us, and those who are
unable to attend with you prayers.
We had a very wonderful class in the old Pink Palace, and many memories.  I personally loved the formal dances as I learned to dance in grammar school age at Mr Parks Dancing Classes in Montclair, and
a corse in square dancing at OHS on summer. I remember when a blue tango was played a teacher and his wife and I with my date danced the Tango in a darkened floor. 
Funny my wife thinks that I am showing off trying to move around the floor, but that was the way it was taught.  Now everyone has a four foot space they occupy. hehehe.
God bless you and please remember me in your prayers.
Peace and Goodness,

Paul MIKE Phelan
 

From family archives - Oakland High Football films.
Homemade films of clips from the last game played on the dirt field at OHS, MacArthur Blvd, Fremont Hi, championship game,1957-58, showing fans in bleachers. OHS lost the game, Mike played several plays at left tackle.  Three game film clips from Fremont, Oak. Tech, and Castlemont at Fruitvale field. Color films, not perfect my Dad did the best he could. Mike left tackle off/def. We had the best passer in the league, and Roger Porto was our star Running Back. 
DVD Copy for shipping and handling $10.00, not a profit making venture, but is rare footage. Contact Mike Phelan.  Yes Wildcat mascott is in one clip, with cheerleaders on field. 
This may be added to the website also, then you can order a copy if you like it.
Go Wildcats!! Go!  

November 6, 2018,
Greetings fellow Wildcats.
Just touching bases. I am 77 yrs now and my mobility is getting worse due to
stenosis of the vertabrae, causing balance issues. But I am happy and enjoying
life focusing in my faith in the Lord and helping others spiritually by passing out
Sacred Heart of Jesus laminated patches. I have my grandfather's, one uncle,
my Dads, and mine back in the 50's, and now I give them away to folks who
look like they need a lift, at least a smile.
Wishing you all peace and goodness. Still have not heard from anyone, but remember everyone in my prayers. The soul never dies that is encouraging.
Cannot attend the reunion, but hope the couple of friends I did know will
have a nice time. Please remember me in your prayers. :-))
Peace and goodness,

Mike Phelan
 

Hi Everone, I just found the website and am enjoying it. I know some of you put in a lot of hard work and I thank you very much. Sorry I missed the reunion as I was on a trip to Italy. Take care and stay healthy. Ron Volpa

Fellow Classmates! I am alive and well and living in Las Vegas disguised as a REALTOR!  I make frequent trips to the Bay Area and I'm looking forward to the next reunion!  I'm guessing we have two years to go!  If anyone comes to Las Vegas and they need information, or just want to say "Hi!",  have coffee (or something stronger), let me know!    All or text me at 702-595-1229E88A9

Peace and goodness, classmates,
I am doing well at the age of 74. I hope that those I knew and not found in this
excellent website of our Class of 59, are doing fine as well.  I looked through the
memorials and will pray for all those who are no longer with us, but are with the
Lord.  To date I have written 209 poems, which will never be published, but have comforted many, many people. Mostly spritual and meditative, some humorous.
I titled the binder "Poems from the Soul".  :-))
To the few friends I knew, a warm greetings from an old friend. Perry remember
the poison oak I got coming up through your back yard?  Jerry G. we had fun
playing football.  Coach Berger was proud of us coming in 2nd. Roger P. Thanks
for the post cards.  Hope you are doing OK.  Peter Huie, sorry to not hear from
you.  You are a fine gentleman, and it was an honor to be your partner in tennis.
We were a class in the Old Pink Palace, and in a few gifted years we will see
each other once again in the Heavenly Kingdom. You are in my prayers my friends.
Peace and goodness, my friends.
Mike Phelan  CFP Associate
 

Hello fellow classmates,
Sorry if I seem to be leaving so many notes.  I have not heard from anyone
so I just come back every few years to leave a footprint, or a note for anyone
who is still around.  I am now 76, not traveling anymore due to old age.  But
I have travelled a lot and am content to now pray more and celebrate my
Catholic faith, and enjoy my grandchildren.  I do pray for all those who have
deceased in our class, many my friends.  For those whom I have met, known
I offer a warm greeting.  I am happy and thankful for my friend Henry Chin and those who keep this site as nice as it is.  Please say a prayer for me too.
Amen. 
 

Hi, does anyone have info of classmate, DAVID FRASER, who graduated in the Spring '59 group? ..... I understand he moved to NYC metro area in '60/'61 and had a younger brother that also attended OHS.... THANKS!!!

Hi members of June '59 class. Found my spot in the beautiful North West USA. Oregon to be precise. I have 130 acres of hilly forest and fields teaming with flora and fauna and it is a full time job keeping the coyotes out of the chickens and the deer out of the garden. If you haven't gussed I'm into farming, growing grass hay for the horsey folks in the area. Weather, o-yeah, I try to harvest between rain squals and keep the stuff dry. Just got into raising pigs. "Wide Load" was the first into the freezer. He weighed 327 pounds of home grown excelence----yummm. Working on a bed and breakfast on the contiguous property so-I-be-busy.

The 50th Reunion Gala, the picnic, this website are the fruits of the excellent Reunion committee.  Thanks so much to everyone who made them possible!  We had a great time at the gala and the picnic.  There is never enough time but, Wayne and I welcome further communications! 

This is a great site and I enjoy reading about all my classmates. 

This 50th year reunion is my first and it was absolutely wonderful to see everyone again. Much thanks to all of the committee members who worked to make this event happen.  It was terriffic and awesome. 

It became more important to me to attend this particular reunion because as i scrolled through the names of those who have aready passed, it was clear that time was of the essence. In looking at much of the accomplishments of the class members, I am truly amazed.

Thankyou for inviting Mrs. Roberts to come to our celebration.  It was a very special treat to see her walk among us once again.  She is an inspiration that even as we approach our 90's we can walk and talk with vigor.  The art of the possible!

I thank the committee for providing us the opportunity to share out stories through this website.  I must caution you my fellow classmates, that this site is not a secure site and that YOU are the first line protection of your personal information therefore think carefully about the information you share.  You may not be sharing that information only with us,your classmates, but  also with hackers into the system.  Your information may be used in an identity theft action and you won't know it until long after the initial theft occurred.  How do I know this?  My checkered history included a stint in Risk Management and Identity Theft .  In late October this year, my associate and I will be giving a short discussion on Personal Safety and Identity Theft.  My business is Prepaid Legal Services and Identity Theft Protection and Restoration.  If you want more information on the subject, view this video http://watch.idtheftlivenews.com/?id=bjue

At the reunion many of you appeared to have just stepped out of your year book pictures.  A tribute no doubt to good health and living the good life.  I wish you well as you continue this Life's journey and eagerly look forward to the next reunion when I can embrace you all once again con gusto! !  Be happy! !
.  

What a wonderful class reunion. I had the BEST time. It was great to connect with old friends.  I guess what they say is true, Sixty is the new fifty!! Everyone looks great. Everyone say well and attend the next reunion.

Another thank you to all who planned and coordinated this reunion!   Everyone should have a personal note of thanks and appreciation.   I heard the dinner gathering was lots of fun, I KNOW the picnic was a great success.  The picnic was a fantasatic idea, Truly enjoyed visiting with so many.  

THANK YOU - YOUS - for making this site happen!  Reading the bios provides a vicarious connection with friends back to 1959...to 2009!  Looking forward to the picnic!  Ralene

Thank you for the OHS Class of '59 website!  I will not be able to attend the reunion so it has been wonderful to visit with classmates via this site.  May those who gather at the reunion have a great time celebratling, reminiscing  and looking toward the future.
Judy McKay

I think our class is just amazing when you look at all the accomplishments we have made. 
Love the site.

Hello fellow classmates,

I am mezmerized with all of you and the quality you exude for living your lives.  My husband and I look forward to the reunion and congratulate the committee for an outstanding effort on behalf of our class.  I look forward to reacquainting with all.  Thank you for everything!

Sorry that I will miss the reunion.  Would welcome contact from any of you who remember and are curious.  I'll submit a current photo in case we pass on the street.  Maybe you will recognize me!

I have reviewed the website and  terrific work has been done into researching and  setting it up.  Congratulations to all.

Thanks for putting together a great website. I'm looking forward to the reunion, and I'll add my "classmate" info later today.  Dan 

Great job on the site.  My hat is off to Henry for the work over the last 5 years organizing the lists.  See you all at the dinner.

I thank everyone who has worked on the Reunion, but especially this website.  This is
fantastic.  Don't think I will be able to join the
Reunion festivities, but will pray that everyone
enjoys a wonderful time and gets home safe.
I filled out the Q&A but don't know if it went
through...sure hope so as I spent a good hour
writing and looking through the site.

 Oh, ah, oh, ah!!  Love the website and thank you to 'the committee' that has put so much time into making the lead-up to the reunion so interesting and fun.  See you all at dinner and the picnic! Jeanne

Wow!!!  I can't believe all the accomplishments that have been achieved!!!  Kudos to all!  Elaine

50 years is a long time, I'm now living in England, if you are in the country give me a call and we can meet and discuss OLD times. Cell: 07825 518406

This is a very nicely done website.  I played football and All City OAL Doubles Tennis. And member of the Falcons Hi Y club.
I reside in Virginia since 1962, after serving in the Army stateside.
Greetings to everyone.  Life has been good. Glad to see the stories everyone has contributed. Graduating from the Pink Palace was good. We had a great class. Though we lost to Castlemont, and pocked to be last we came in second in football. What memories!  God bless each and everyone.  
Mike

The website is a wonderful idea and I have enjoyed going through it and seeing where everyone is and what they have been doing. 

The Memoriam is very sad.

I will be adding my information shortly.

Hey there, fellow WIldcats!
This is a very cool site and I also thank the Committee for its hard work in providing a forum for all of us.
Will do a bio when I can find time.  In meantime, look forward to hearing from my buddies!
Willy Wildcat   aka   Steve Engles  805 687 2212

This site is very clear and easy to use.  Let's get more photos - old and new.  I think it's a great start and I look forward to seeing it grow, and connecting with old friends.  Note my new e-mail address.  Mibs

 This site and all looks great. I decided to test this part out, Joanne

I am really excited about the website. It will be such a great way to learn about our classmates and to keep in touch.

Thank you, Joyce and Henry!

Janice