Woodstock High School Class of ’75 reunites

Alumni athletes and coaches from the Class of 1975 are, from left to right, Don, Dave, Don, Peter, Peter, Pat and Bob, who came together to share memories of their basketball days. (Ron Yuzark Photo)

Ron Yuzark, Echo Correspondent

The College Avenue Secondary School Grade 13 class of 1975 reunited on June 7 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of their graduation. The event, held at the Sally Creek Community Centre, brought together more than 50 former classmates, staff, and spouses for an afternoon of memories, music, and reconnection. The last reunion was held in 2010, and organizers were hopeful that the passage of 15 years hadn’t changed everyone too much. A committee of eight alumni began planning the milestone event several months ago, initially unsure how much interest it would attract. Their efforts were rewarded with enthusiastic responses from across Canada and the United States, including attendees traveling from British Columbia and several American states. Guests enjoyed light refreshments and a looping slideshow of photographs from their high school years. Just after 3 p.m., the group gathered for a commemorative photo, followed by a short program. The presentation included a moving In Memoriam slideshow honoring classmates and staff who had passed away, as well as messages from those unable to attend. Serving as co-Masters of Ceremonies, Marci MacQueen and Bob Van Wyk guided the event with warmth and humor. Prizes were awarded for fun categories such as the longest distance traveled. Though the faces may have changed over the decades, the spirit of camaraderie and shared history remained strong. And yes, '70s music still provided a fitting soundtrack for the afternoon, reminding all in attendance that some things, like good music and lasting friendships, never go out of style.