R.I.P. to Rip

Richard "Rip" Coleman (or "Rick")

If ever there was a proper word for him, it was "solid." The man had a presence. He was a football and baseball star. He was always relaxed under pressure. He was a good student who went to West Point after high school, but he didn't take himself too seriously, and he was always fun to hang with.

I know little to nothing of his life. He came to our 25th anniversary, but I lost track of him after that.

In our "Ten Years Later, or the Results of the Lewis and Clark Expedition" program handed out at the 10-year reunion, the following is provided on Rick: Richard Coleman, 19th Service Co. 3rd S.U.P.C.O.I.N, (whatever that means?) APO New York 09757

"Rick knows how to get ahead in the Military. He married an Air Force Colonel's daughter, Barbara Bradford Taylor from Virginia. Capt. Coleman is currently stationed in Germany. Rick and "Brad" have a daughter, Carolyn."

In the "Twenty Years Later" program, all that is given is his address: Allenwood NJ

Written by classmate Joe Struble:

I think one might describe him as the "strong silent type." He was in my homeroom, 104, I think, headed by Mike Spang and the thing I remember about him - my first impressions - was that he seemed a little more "settled in" in those first few days, teachers seemed to know him. I'm guessing the football players got a jump on Kearney life by having to show up - maybe try out for the team before the rest of us showed up. I was also confused that he was called "Rip" and not "Rick" and wondered if I heard right. I see in the yearbook that he was down for Football, Basketball, and Baseball at least 2, sometimes 3 of his 4 BK years, but I think baseball was his best sport. I remember him too leading my gym class in calisthenics on the parking lot blacktop several times, 'deputized' by the coach because he could get the job done. Don't think I ever spoke to him but my impression was that he was a nice guy, self-assured and motivated, His sister Kathy Coleman was one year behind us. Long blond hair. BTW: Walter Gary "Rip" Coleman (July 31, 1931 – May 14, 2004) was an American professional baseball player, a left-handed pitcher who played from 1955 to 1957 and 1959 to 1960 for the New York Yankees, Kansas City Athletics and Baltimore Orioles of Major League Baseball.

Rip would have been a star left-handed pitcher in Little League in 1959 amd 1960, which probably explains his nickname.

His West Point obituary says he died on October 22, 2024 in the Tampa area.

His publicly available info says

Richard Ward Coleman
Born May 12, 1948
Married to Lisa F Coleman
(813) 929-4171 - LandLine Phone
(732) 859-3598 - Cell
30617 Tremont Dr, Wesley Chapel, FL 33543-7848

R.I.P. Kathy Flor (Katherine Perkins)

Obituary

Katherine Perkins, 76, beloved mother, wife, sister, and Busia passed away on September 28, 2024, in Meridian, Idaho. Katherine was born to John and Edna Flor on May 29, 1948, in Rochester, New York. She was the fifth of nine children. Katherine attended St. Stanislaus Kostka Parish School and graduated from Bishop Kearney High School in 1966.

Katherine was working for Eastman Kodak Company in Rochester when she met a guy from Idaho. Lance and Katherine were married at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church on May 10, 1969. They later welcomed three sons and one daughter into their family. In 1970, they moved to Idaho Falls, Idaho, to work in a family photography business. They later made their home in Pocatello, Idaho.

Katherine enjoyed working in her yard and was the ultimate green thumb. Katherine's true passion, however, was genealogy especially from her Polish ancestry. Katherine's dream of visiting Poland was fulfilled when she was able to travel there with two of her sisters in 2012.

Despite living in Idaho for so long Katherine's heart belonged in Rochester. Early on Katherine would often drive the 2000 miles to New York with her four children in their VW bus to spend the summers. In later years, her visits included spending time with her siblings and attending the Polish Festival put on every year by St. Stanislaus Church. Within the last few years she moved to Meridian, Idaho to be closer to her children living in the area.

Katherine is survived by her husband of 55 years, Lance Perkins, son Gerard (Anmarie) Perkins of Pocatello, ID, son Chris Perkins of Boise, ID, son Todd (Shere) Perkins of Caldwell, ID, and daughter Ali (Charles) Crafts of Meridian, ID; grandchildren Bailey, Lilley, Edie, Cassidy, Emme, and Max ; sisters Theresa Cobb of Bath, NY, Francis O'Loughlin of Greece, NY, Janet Flor of Richford, NY, Cecelia (John) Slivick of Greece, NY, Carolyn Sypniak of Greece, NY, brother Stephen (Kristy) Flor of Sodus Point, NY. She is preceded in death by her parents John and Edna Flor, sister Vivian Schneider, sister Marilyn Flor, and niece Katherine Cobb.

R.I.P. Dave Werner

Obituary:

October 4, 1948 - October 4, 2024

David G. Werner, of Rochester, New York passed away Friday, October 4th, 2024 at the age of 76. He was born October 4th, 1948 to the late Donald and Joan Hohman Werner. He was married to Patricia Crandall Werner, for fifty five years, who survives.

He is also survived by a Son, John Werner, (Leigh Ann) of Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, one Daughter, Melissa Clark (Jay) four Grandchildren, Emma, Timmy, John and Lukas of Rochester as well as Brothers Michael Werner (Vicki) and Steven Werner of Rochester, and longtime Friends Anthony and Bernie Ferarra, also of Rochester, New York.

Dave was a longtime employee of The Town of Irondequoit, where he proudly served as a Highway Foreman for 38 years.

As well as his love and commitment to his Family and Friends, “Moons”, as most knew him, was an avid Fisherman, where his love of the sport, as well as boating, was a lifelong passion.

Classmate Roman Jesien wrote:

Dave was a great friend in high school with an infectious laugh and great personality, loved to hang out with all the Werners.

R.I.P. Gary Camp

Obit:

Gary Edward Camp

March 26, 1948 – August 11, 2024

Age 76, spent his formative years in Rochester, NY where he cultivated lifelong friendships and a deep love for sports of all kinds, especially basketball. He was born in 1948 to Edward N Camp and Doris M Camp. Along with his parents, he was predeceased by his adopted son, Joe Rodriguez Camp. He is survived by his loving brothers Greg and Tim (Lori) Camp, his nephew Matthew Camp and his beloved dog, Binks.

At an early age Gary moved to Buffalo, where he attended Conesus College and Buffalo State. After school he moved to Columbus, Ohio where he operated a Friendlys Family Restaurant for several years.

Gary lived for many years in Colorado, where he indulged in all the sunny state had to offer; he enjoyed long drives through the Poudre canyon, concerts at Red Rocks and the Mish, and owning a successful restaurant, Whistlers Cafe, in Nederland to name a few. He fit in well with the residents of Ward – if you know, you know. A lover of music, he was an early attendee of the Telluride Bluegrass Festival and danced on the floor of Grateful Dead shows more times than he could remember. Two of his proudest achievements were his 37 years of sobriety and the many dogs he raised throughout his life. He had a huge heart, an incredible sense of humor, and touched more lives that he could possibly know. His best friend of 17 years, Chris, would especially like to thank him for countless memories – road trips, concerts, deep conversations, and unsolicited advice he should have taken more often – but most of all, his love.

Gary’s warm smile, infectious laughter and generous spirit endears him to all who knew him. He will be deeply missed by his family and friends. As requested by Gary, there was no service and funeral arrangements. Informal gatherings replaced traditional services and his ashes will be scattered on a mountain top in Colorado.

R.I.P. Maureen Pilato (Lamb)

 

Maureen passed away on February 9, 2024. 
Her obit:
On February 9, 2024, we said goodbye to Maureen Pilato Lamb, a remarkable woman who touched the lives of many with her love and kindness. Maureen passed away in Rochester, New York at the age of 75, surrounded by her family who adored her.
Born to her beloved parents, Samuel and Grace Pilato on August 4, 1948, Maureen grew up in Rochester and attended Bishop Kearney High School, where she was a member of the first graduating class. Maureen went on to Saint Bonaventure University for her undergraduate degree and later pursued her passion for the law at Syracuse Law School, earning a Juris Doctorate.
Maureen's professional accomplishments in the legal field were highly regarded and celebrated throughout her nearly five-decade-long career. Following in her father's footsteps, she became a dedicated and respected attorney. Maureen's expertise and unwavering advocacy for her clients earned her a prominent position as the chairman of the New York State Bar Association's Real Property Section. Her professionalism, diligence, and legacy of excellence left a lasting impact on the legal community.
Beyond her successful career, Maureen found immense joy in her family. She and her beloved husband, Robert "Bob" Lamb, Jr., shared a beautiful journey of over 52 years of marriage. They were both passionate attorneys who supported and celebrated each other's accomplishments. She took great pleasure in sharing stories and updates about her family with her extensive network of friends.
Maureen's warmth and loving spirit extended beyond her immediate family. She effortlessly made friends throughout her life, and her vibrant presence left a lasting impression on everyone she crossed paths with.
While Rochester remained her lifelong home, Maureen and Bob found solace and created lasting memories at their vacation home, Three Bridges, on Wellesley Island in upstate New York. They enjoyed the beauty of the St. Lawrence River, tended to their gardens, and cherished the company of dear friends and family in that tranquil setting.
Maureen is survived by her devoted husband, Bob, and her two sons, Rob and Chris. She was a loving mother-in-law to Meredith (Rob) and Catherine (Chris). Her legacy continues through her treasured grandchildren, whom she adored: Robbie, Maddy and Alex (Rob & Meredith); Bennett and Charlie (Chris & Catherine); brothers: Robert Pilato (Dawn) and Bruce Pilato (Lori); brother-in-law Jamie Lamb (Kathie); her nephews, niece and their spouses.
Maureen's vibrant presence, unwavering love, and indomitable spirit will forever hold a special place in our hearts.
Friends may call Thursday, February 15 from 4-7PM at the funeral chapel (2305 Monroe Ave.). A Funeral Mass will be held Friday, February 16, 9:30AM at St. Louis Church, 64 S Main Street, Pittsford. Interment at White Haven Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Mary Cariola Center Foundation.

The November breakfast featured some out-of-town guests.

Comments from Rich Mileo: We were a feisty group this morning as we welcomed back to Rochester Bob Case, Michael Critelli and Tony/Sharon Mangione, all visiting for the weekend. Bob was sporting more gold than Mr. T and looks great for someone his age. I like the new color of his hair. Michael has been married 45 years. He credits their longevity to the many vacations they take. For example, while he’s in Rochester, his wife is in Germany! Tony is hosting an Italian movie on Sunday at Nazareth University (subtitles) at 4 pm. Rita Lotti Johnson will provide commentary for those who can’t read fast enough.

Gloria Esposito Mercury was just returning from California so that was a nice surprise, and Anne Marie Schneggenburger Maranda wandered in from NYC. 

 Bill Vallee was our lone Vietnam veteran at the table while Michael C and Pat Goonan served in the Reserves. Thank you for your service!

Ann Hawkins Grimm reminded us that most of the family members on her husbands side died before the age of 60! And many of those while they slept! Prayers for her son who’s 49! Btw, Ann doesn’t take any prescription meds and Wegmans is investigating as to why!

Barbara Gramlich Mosakowski is recovering from pneumonia which is more frightening with Covid in the air. Not that she was a difficult patient but RGH nurses went on strike while she was there, prompting her to run home! 

I complemented Georgia Schulte Knapp on the nice article and photoshopped picture of her in the latest BKHS Pioneer Class newsletter.

Peter Elliott is preparing for his roll in The Man Who Came To Dinner (no, it isn’t a biopic about Ward Wilson) opening in December, and an opera that will hopefully be staged at Kilbourn Hall in January!

John Conheady drove in from Lockport and provided his usual thumbs up for the picture. He’ll be a regular during the lull in the golf season, weather permitting. 

Skip Minisce sat at the head of the table and pontificated about the advantages of marrying a younger woman (Armand Miale and Louie Joy would have been proud). He said goodbye to his 2021 corvette until next May. Ugh. Mike Holowka is one of many at today’s breakfast that’s attending the Gala tomorrow night. I hope he brings a lot of money!

Lynda Campanaro Robinson stopped by to say hi and is doing as well as can be expected for someone who lost their spouse of 51 years, in July! 

Blessings to you, Lynda. In total, we were 18, with Sharon Mangione as the 1966 BKHS wannabe!

R.I.P. Mary Kay Yanaitis

 Mary Kay Yanaitis, 74, left this world on September 28, 2023.

Her obituary can be found here

The Class of '66 Summer Picnic, 2023

August 12, 2023, Webster Park

28 members of the class attended, and 26 posed for a group picture (below).

Click here for the photo gallery.

 R.I.P. Ray Sickels, Dec 11, 2022

R.I.P Barry LaCombe

Barry passed away on November 3, 2022. Obituary here.

R.I.P. Mary Chiaramonte

 

She was my first love.

We went to school dances together, and occasionally grabbed a bite to eat after her dance classes at the George Francis studio, but our favorite activity was walking through downtown, where we met up after bus rides from home. Lovers need no films nor plays nor elegant meals. The best dates are those where we discover a linked soul. Mary introduced me to the “secret” doll collection at the library, and I introduced her to the hidden, most unsavory areas of the Clinton Book Shop, but most of our discoveries were about each other, and the weight of those revelations was borne not by specific activities, but by simple conversation, serious and jocular, sacred and profane, I more profane than she. We talked about the lustful predations of Brother Heathwood and the one-act plays of Edward Albee, of lawn mowers and men’s hats, of rock ‘n roll, foreign food, cabbages, kings and Brontes. We disagreed about many matters both light and weighty, but I began to learn from those talks that it was possible to approach an opposing viewpoint without contempt.

Oh, that the America of 2022 had acquired that learning.

I went off to college in New York City, and our relationship went the predictable way of romances between adolescents separated by distance. She ended it. Most of us remember a list of certain precise dates of significance like November 22^nd, 1963, or September 11^th, 2001. My list includes December 10th, 1966. That was the day my mailbox at Fordham University contained a final letter from Mary, the “Dear John” letter we all dread. I never saw her again, but the ghost of her memory haunted me.

In the late 90s, some thirty years after I last saw Mary, after I had married and divorced two other women, I became close friends with Dale Davis, the legendary surfing cinematographer. In 1966 he had been the surfing consultant for “Never Too Young,” the first attempt by a network to create a soap opera for the youth market. It was about surfers who hung out at a surfside bar and listened to live music performed by some popular performers of the day, including all-time greats like Marvin Gaye. Dale was shocked that I still knew the tune and all the lyrics from the theme song for that show. “That show was so obscure that nobody even remembers it at all,” he mused, “so how could you know so much about it?”

Dale had evoked Mary’s ghost, who duetted with me on that theme song.

She and I had often laughed about that show, and sang the cheesy theme song together. Being snobs, we were not admirers, but loved to hate it. Now that I consider it, I guess I was just pretending to be a snob to impress her. I did laugh at the melodramatics and the fact that the main characters never had to interrupt their hang-out by going to class or work, but I actually loved the musical performances. C'mon, who doesn't love Marvin Gaye?

How could a famous California surfer dude remind me of high school in upstate New York?

Because there are some ghosts that never stop haunting us.

--

Mary and I had a place. It was a grim, industrial place in downtown Rochester, on the shore of the Genesee, near the library. It was a vacant space between two factories. Effluvium, probably untreated, poured from nearby drains into the river, and steam emerged from ubiquitous pipes and valves in the area.

A foul place.

From that place could one view Rochester’s history. Beneath it was the river, with its uneven flow, and its polluted palette that sometimes looked less like the product of nature than of H.P. Lovecraft’s imagination. Above it loomed the Broad Street Bridge, the base of which had once been an aqueduct carrying the Erie Canal above the Genesee River, and had later carried Rochester’s forgotten subway, which by our high school years had been abandoned. From our vantage below, we could look through the open arches to see that the tunnel beneath the road was marred by graffiti, the runes left by its occasional inhabitants, the desperate and forlorn who take refuge in the shadows and hide in the neglected crevices of every major city.

Yes, a foul place.

But our place nonetheless.

It was there, in a winter storm, that I first kissed her, and the surrounding hellscape disappeared. We stood face to face, and as we did, there was no universe beyond a snowflake melting upon her lips.

It wasn’t my first kiss, but it was the first one that meant anything. So, yes, I remember Mary. That much you can deduce from my words. You may think that these memories are so vivid only because I have just heard of her death. You may wonder whether I have thought of her much between now and when I held her in my arms more than fifty years ago.

No, not much.

Not much at all.

Only about once every fucking day.

Mary and I waded together only briefly along the "bank and shoal of time."

But there are some ghosts that never stop haunting us.

R.I.P. Mary Lou Goodman

 

Obituary

Mary Lou (Rivellino) Thompson

Walworth - With family by her side, Mary Lou (Goodman) Thompson passed away on November 16, 2022.  She was predeceased by her loving husband, Robert Thompson, her parents Edwin and Catherine Goodman and her brother, Charles Goodman.  

She leaves behind three grown children: Joseph (Christina) Rivellino, Mary Kay (Jarrel) Battaglia and Anne Ferris; her brothers Donald (Trish) Goodman, Paul (Sheila) Goodman; her niece Catherine (Phil) Fabens-Jones, and her grandchildren, Nathan and Samuel Rivellino.

Mary Lou's calling hours will be Monday, November 21 from 4-7PM at Murphy Funeral & Cremation Chapels, 1040 Rte. 31, Macedon, NY.  Her Memorial Mass will be held on Tuesday, November 22 at 11am at St. Mary's of the Lake Church 5823 Walworth Rd., Ontario, NY.

Mary Lou was a great lover of animals, and the family requests that donations to Lollypop Farm, Humane Society of Greater Rochester (99 Victor Rd, Fairport, NY 14450) be considered in lieu of flowers. To leave the family an online condolence, please visit Mary Lou's tribute page, www.murphyfuneralservices.com.

R.I.P. Marty LaFica

"Marty the Mountain": business teacher, baseball coach, and all-around good guy.

Obit here.