The temperature was brisk, even a little chilly for mid-October, and the ground was a bit soggy from the morning’s rain. But damp weather was no match for the warm feelings generated by Keystone alumni and friends during Homecoming and Family Weekend 2018.
Hundreds of alumni descended on campus for three days from Friday, Oct. 12 through Sunday, Oct.14, with most activities taking place on Saturday. Many Keystone grads traveled hundreds or even thousands of miles and stayed at area hotels for the weekend. Others commuted from nearby cities and towns throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania. No matter where they came from, everyone arrived with a smile and left with great memories of a journey well worth their time.
Among them was perhaps the most senior alumnus of all. Walter “Coach” Gantz, 94-years young, is a member of Keystone’s Class of 1947. Like many World War II veterans, Walter came to Keystone thanks to financial aid offered by the G.I.Bill. He remembers his time on campus very well.
“When I was here, we played baseball on that parking lot,” he recalls, pointing to the large commuter parking lot along College Avenue. “Sure, the campus has changed some but it was beautiful then and it’s beautiful now.”
Dan Lake, ’52, couldn’t agree more.
“Keystone is so special to me. After all I met my wife, Shirley Burkhart Lake, Class of 1951, here. I made many friends but four of us in particular were inseparable. Larry Williams, Henry Miller, Jake Faust and myself. We did everything together. We had so much fun. Just thinking about it, makes me feel good.”
Gary Lee Koerner, ’62 who founded the College’s radio station, WKCV, attended Saturday’s events with Marion Beddoe-Iobst, ’64. Gary traveled from Virginia and Marion from Scranton.
“It’s such a beautiful campus and it’s great to see old friends and meet new ones. What a great day to be at Keystone,” said Marion.
“Keystone played such an important role in my life and I have such pleasant memories. That’s why I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else today,” Gary added.
Keystone 1990 alum and Board of Trustees member David Noyle credits Keystone for helping him rise to a successful career as Senior Director of Sales for Colonial Penn Life Insurance Company. David traveled from his home in East Norriton, Pa. with his wife, Karen, to enjoy the weekend.
“When I went here, I was involved in so many organizations and activities. Keystone was really where I learned how to lead and I’m so grateful this school and so proud to be here today.”
