1981–Spring ’18 Class Letter
Class Agent:
Lawrence “Larry” Nikolaus
Spring 2018
Greetings, Class of ’81!
Thanks for those of you have that have visited the “Ripon Class of 81” Facebook page. If you haven’t been there check out some of pictures I found of the good old days.
I am still working for MITRE and supporting the AF’s missile warning radars. I am also beginning my 13th year as Scoutmaster for Troop 194 and was proud to announce our 84th Eagle Scout in 30 years. My wife, KATHY HARBUT NIKOLAUS ’81, continues to work as a physical therapist and in August, Kathy rode the 65-mile Tour of the Moon cycling event through the Grand Junction and Colorado National Monument. We had the chance to visit our youngest daughter in Germany this summer as she ended her year as a Rotary Youth Exchange student. Practice for our soon to be empty nest status.
Best,
Larry
Class Notes:
DEBORAH CIZEK SMITH ’81: Sorry to start off on a sad note. I received word that Deb passed away suddenly a year ago in February. At the time of her death, she was living in Hinsdale, Illinois and was employed by Advantage Sales and Marketing.
JEFF MCANDREW ’81: In the spring of 2017 my son, Ryan Jeffrey McAndrew, graduated from UW-Milwaukee with a business degree from the Lubar School of business. In May of 2017, I won 2nd place in the Jean Nelson Essay at the Lakefly Writers Contest in Oshkosh. The award was presented May 12 at the annual writer’s conference. I am also president of the Wordsmiths Writers Club in North Fond du Lac, which has sponsored a scholarship for students at the local high school for the past two years.
DAN FINKELSTEIN ’81: I’ve been retired from corporate life for about 9 years and I have a retirement gig that I absolutely love. I test drive cars for Roush. Last year I drove 103,456 miles, flew 33,145… and found time to play 45 rounds of golf. Mary and I have been married for almost 35 years and still live in Troy, Michigan.