Remembering Frank Jilka, Bill Swears and Kurt Becker
After finally checking my e-mail yesterday, I was saddened to read the e-mail that notified me that our beloved Band Teacher, Mr. Frank Jilka, age 90, had passed away peacefully on Friday morning.
He made it to a family reunion just a short time ago and was still playing his trombone.
I have kept in touch with him through snail mail, and he always held a special place in my heart.
We all felt that he would always be the best Director that you could ever want and no one can surpass. Witty, stern with a warm smile, band was his life.
Our times at Interlochen Music Camp were one of our great times that we all have not forgotten.
Rest in Peace, Frank.
Maralyn Fink Woodbury
To piggy back on Maralyn’s sad news, Bill Swears who has a first year teacher when the Class of 1959 were seniors, passed Sunday after a long battle with cancer. He was only 77.
After a successful career as a business education teacher, he became principal of St. Johns High School for many years.
Sally Boron
Reader recalls Kurt Becker
Saddened to read of Kurt Becker’s passing. Many fond memories of Kurt and the Becker family from my childhood. Enjoyed the old Rotary Club photo. Many fine men from my boyhood in St. Johns.
Of course my Father and Grandfather, Jim and Joe Matthews, Glenn Osgood, Dr. Kraft, Al Dean, Leo Corkin, Bill Barber and Le Dewitt. And of course my childhood and still my favorite dentist, Dr Oatley, who fixed my front tooth that I broke diving into the shallow end of the park pool. I think it was a better time.
Todd J. Matthews
Flagstaff, AZ
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