EMP-11

Penny Bordsen was in our study group (John Leasia, Ron Nicloas, Joe Perrotti, Mike Ryan and Russ Luedtke). Penny passed away last summer. We will miss her. We had a chance to get the study group together a short time before Penny passed away.

She was a poet and a very kind person to those we would consider down and out. This was penned at a time when Penny missed a loved one, but I believe it was also a look ahead to the day when we would no longer see Penny on this earth. In her words:

"Good Bye"

My faith is strong; I'm unafraid of dying.

But to anguish I confess, or I'd be lying

If I would not openly admit

Loss to death's like falling in a pit.

I rejoice — my beloved is with God;

Only the body lies beneath the sod.

But my heart is screaming, "O forever lost";

The chasm forever has been crossed!

An empty space to feel, no more to see

The loving that was once so close and free.

When we meet again, we won't be the same,

Though God knows and calls us all by name.

I'm not afraid knowing I will die.

But I cannot bear the sorrow of good bye.

— Penny Bordsen

Penny Bordsen EMP-11

In December, our study group planned another get together in Chicago. Business plans kept Mike Ryan from making our reunion but the rest of the gang is in the photos. You'll notice that Tim and Denise were not in our study group. Well, we have adopted them for all our reunions. If you get together as a small group of EMP-11'ers, let me know and send me a picture.

Mike Batka writes to say that he is in reasonable health and is doing absolutely nothing that is interesting or worthwhile. He also says he remains reasonably functional. He would love to see any EMP-11 classmates if you are in his neighborhood. He lives in Crown Point, Ind., and can be reached at 219.662.9917 or by mail at 602 W 94th Court, Crown Point, IN 46307.

That's all for this time. Remember, I am always looking for news. This time let's mention a couple of names and see if they read this and if they get in touch with me. I have never heard from Linda Varveris or Oliver Darden. Till next time.