Holiday Edition 2005 - Volume XXXVII  E-mail Number 10, December  2005 

HELLO!  Okay, I have procrastinated long enough, so here it is!  Late, but nonetheless, complete!  I have encountered several road blocks to getting this out . . . the last was losing 2 of my print heads on my printer!  MINOR DETAIL!  RIGHT! However, still a major road block!  Don’t forget to continue to send your News for the upcoming Newsletter.  Also, mark your calendars for the Fromherz Family Reunion, June 9, 10 & 11, 2006.

Letter from the Editor:

Dear Family and Friends, 

Here it is again . . . the Holiday season and we all want to take a few minutes and send blessings to all.  This is also a good time to catch up on all the things we have been doing this past year to share how we celebrate our lives to the fullest!  We all have our stories and they are worthwhile to share.  I had this newsletter pretty much completed when my dad, Fromherz Senior Jim passed away on November 22, 2005.  I have tried writing and rewriting what I want to share with you in the newsletter and have decided to give myself time for some grieving and healing to put this all together,   so I am sending what I have to this point and will work on the rest for the next issue of the newsletter, Spring 2006. Thank you to all of you that so graciously shared the loss of our beloved husband, father, brother, uncle, grandfather, friend, mentor . . .

I am sure that all of you are busy celebrating life.  Please take a minute and send your news for the newsletter.  This is a tool to share your life with the rest of us who don’t get to see each other very often . . . a way to catch up!  It is a way to connect with your family roots and share yourself, your travels, hopes and dreams . . . life in general, which is special to you!  Snail Mail can be sent to Jim & Connie Gale, 12925 W Greenfield Road, Nine Mile Falls, WA 99026 or e-mail to congale@ispwest.com.  Newsletters are available to you on the web at www.fromherznewsletter.com. 

Our web page also offers links to our family historians and genealogy experts David Trask (King family) and Daniel Frommherz (Fromherz family).   King Genealogy Contact David Trask, King Family Historian since 1989.  “I am descended from Isaac King, brother of Sol King, and so share common ancestors with the Fromherzs.  I collect obituaries and family trees of the various branches of the Nahum and Serepta (Norton) King family lines.  I have over 1500 obituaries at the present time.  I would appreciate copies of obituaries anyone has of recent family members deaths or of any obituaries people obtain in their research past family members deaths.  Please try to carefully and accurately record the name, date, and town of the newspaper, and the page, section and column number.  This is especially important when one is getting the information from a microfilm.  Enough information should be documented so another person could someday easily find the obituary from the appropriate source, ie newspaper microfilm.  I would also appreciate copies of family members family trees.  These should record family members names, their spouse(s), children, siblings, etc., and the dates and places of birth, marriage and death, and places of burial, if any of this is known.  Copies of death certificates also would be welcomed.  Any information I have on any family member is available for any one.  Just contact me.  Thanks.”   

dltrask@aol.com, David M. Trask, 1533 Nottingham Circle,  Medford, Oregon  97504-7202 

Fromherz Genealogy Contact Daniel Frommherz  mckenzie_market@mckenzievalleymarket.com     

David’s and Dan’s  links can also be found on our home page.  Just double click on the link and it will take you there! 

If you wish to have your own  .pdf (Adobe Acrobat Reader) copy of this newsletter, please contact me either by snail-mail or e-mail.  I can attach a .pdf file to an e-mail for you, which is free to you.  If you want me to save it to a disc I will need $3 pre-paid to cover postage and handling . . . again please send your requests to me via e-mail or snail-mail.

For those of you that don’t have e-mail or internet access . . . you can go to any library.  You usually have to sign up for a time frame (usually an hour)  . . . and sometimes you can just walk-in . . . it doesn’t cost you anything.  You can view the latest Newsletter.  There is usually a fee per page to print. Ask the librarian to assist you with this!                                    

Jim & I frequent the libraries (or Internet Café) when we are traveling.  We even pay our bills from the internet access at the library when we are traveling. Really, it is fairly easy!

        This issue of the Newsletter is yours to ENJOY!   

Jim & Connie Gale

12925 W Greenfield Road

Nine Mile Falls, WA 99026

congale@ispwest.com

Dear Newsletter: . . . Letters from you . . .

 HAPPY HOLIDAYS!  MERRY CHRISTMAS!  to all of you Dear Family and A GREAT BIG THANK YOU! to all that sent mail, for it is your mail that becomes the  primary content of NEWSLETTER From The Heart.

Also a GREAT Big THANK YOU to all who sent $$$ to help with the costs associated with publishing this NEWSLETTER FROM THE HEART.  You know who you are!   

Click here  for Holiday Greetings from Jim and Connie Gale

From: william king [mailto:wjksmr@earthlink.net]
Sent: Wednesday, June 22, 2005 9:46 PM

Re: FROG   Thank you, Connie.   I'm not going to Oregon this year.  I may not even make it to Portugal. Many domestic and work related concerns. Yours in the hearts of Our Lord and Lady, Bill King

From: 2hartz@bellsouth.net [mailto:2hartz@bellsouth.net]
Sent: Saturday, June 25, 2005 2:24 PM
Subject: Re: Cousins Dinner change . . . We will be meeting at McMenamins Pubs in Salem instead.

Connie.... Thanks for the updates.....I really wish I could make it..... Maybe next years............Bob

From: Roy J Reichenbach [mailto:rjrx2@juno.com]
Sent: Sunday, June 26, 2005 8:11 AM
Subject: Asking for prayers............

Our daughter Margaret ("Marge") Mary Rayda's father-in-law Ron Rayda died yesterday, June 25th.  Roy and I ask for your prayers for Sheri, his widow, Ryan (Marge's husband), his son, Aydrian, his daughter, his mother Agnes, his brothers Russell, Randy, and Roger, and for Margaret Mary and all of the Family.  Thank you.   Love, Rita Jo and Roy Reichenbach.

From: Pat Zollner [mailto:patzollner@msn.com]
Sent: Sunday, June 26, 2005 5:23 PM
To: Connie Gale

Hi, Connie & Jim~

Thanks so much for all your generous work with the reunion.  You're the greatest!  ~Pat, Paul & family

From: Patty Fromherz [mailto:patty@opusnet.com]
Sent: Sunday, June 26, 2005 8:35 PM
Subject: fromherz

 Hi Connie we sure enjoyed the family reunion thank you for keeping us up to date on Uncle Jim and Aunt Mary. Do you have Matthew and Karen's e-mail I sure would like to have it if you do. Well if I have anything interesting happen I will let you know.

Love Trish and family.

From: Wayne Fromherz [mailto:wfromherz@ispwest.com]
Sent: Sunday, June 26, 2005 9:38 PM
To: congale@ispwest.com
Subject: Sunday night visit with grandma & grandpa

 Stopped to see Grandpa and Grandma Fromherz after we dropped off all the goodies you gave e us.  Thanks again for all the hamburgers and buns and veggies and salad.  We will be eating hamburgers for along time-that was a great supply.  Going to cannery at 7am. To re-apply for the 11 to 7 a.m. shift.  They might see me jumping up and saying my “S” word if I see a mouse on the belts with the beans ,ha,ha.  I only did pears and plums last season so I hope I don’t get canned for doing a dance and I do dance when I see a mouse dead or alive,ha,ha.  I will just pray I’m weighing cans on the scale again so I won’t see any of my little buddies.  Grandma was looking good-Wayne stopped by to tell the boss he would help Grandma get home tomorrow.  Grandpa was eating dinner that Aunt Pat made him when we stopped in to see if he wanted to go with us.  He was cute said no he was staying clear of that place,ha,ha.  Plus he was in  his p.j.’s nice and comfy.  Dana and Liz’s report cards in, Liz a GPA of 3.86(all A’s and only 1 B) and Dana a 4.0 so she held her GPA at 4.0 all year and was very proud of herself just like the rest of us were.  So taking all the girls out to lunch one of these Sundays for their treat for working so hard during the school year.  Dad will take the boys to a fun place while we are out and about.   Or they can go rent a movie-  all 4 like to watch movies and be couch potatoes-just depends on what their moods are.  Kids watching extreme makeover.  Sending our prayers for Didi and new baby  that delivery is smooth and baby can wait a few weeks  and be delivered close to home instead of Portland  Hospital.  Are you going to be watching  Mac when the kids go into hospital?  Will write more tomorrow when I have more news.  Take care and thanks again for  all the goodies.  Love ya Denise & Wayne & kids

From: Wayne Fromherz [mailto:wfromherz@ispwest.com]
Sent: Monday, June 27, 2005 11:15 AM
Subject: Back from cannery application

 Wayne dropped me off at the cannery  before he left town to pick-up Grandma Fromherz at the hospital.  Application took a few minutes to fill out but the line to turn it in took 2 ½  hours so I’m  remembering the cannery job again-lots of standing in one place and they give breaks every 2-3 hours.  Took my umbrella-light rain on the walk home.  3 phone calls while I was gone.  Will be taking the kids to lunch at noon at Highland school summer lunch program.  Then home to clean and laundry to do .  Kids watching Dumbo when I came back home so Dana’s babysitting was easy.  Mary Jo and Liz signed up for the Parks summer program- noon-4p.m.  Like a day summer camp and it goes through Aug.  Well I better get some housework going.  Love Denise

From: Daniel David Lewis Frommherz [mailto:mckenzie_market@mckenzievalleymarket.com]
Sent: Sunday, July 03, 2005 3:20 PM
Subject: smile you gotta good friend

Connie here is a real deal smile please put it in the next newsletter anywhere you think appropriate.
Go to: http://www.funnybunch.com/1/me1.swf   

From: Jane fromherz 
Sent: Sunday, September 25, 2005 4:57 PM
Subject: FW: Announcing Little Natalie

From: "Ortiz Annella M SSgt 55 MXS/MXMRSE"
Subject: Announcing Little Natalie
Date: Thu, 22 Sep 2005 14:28:38 -0500

Hello – Thought you might like this so you could send it out to some of your friends.  It is a scanned version of Natalie’s birth announcements.  Love you and I will talk with you later…  

From: Jane fromherz
Sent: Sunday, September 25, 2005 5:57 PM
Subject: RE: NewsletterFromTheHeart #10 Reminder Postcard

Hi Connie and the Family newsletter,   Things are fine with me, I am working at the new Flexible Foam production plant in Longview, Washington.  We make foam rubber and sell to Serta, Spring Air and King Koil.  It is a steady job and I do enjoy it.  I am in the wrapping section, filling orders for the three companies.  We also have a warehouse in Utah and we sell to Spring Air, so we are constantly selling products to that section of the Flexible Foam company.  I am also working at JoAnn Fabrics and doing a few Demo's at the grocery stores, I am caught up with all my bills and hope to start putting a little away for a rainy day...which isn't so far off!!!   In my spare time I sew and mend for people, and do some crafts for sale. 

I recently got a new Grandaughter, I would suppose that Annella has sent a letter for the family newsletter.  Little Natalie Marie was born 3 weeks early and weighed 11 pounds 2 ounces at birth.  She is so beautiful...of course that is a Grandmother talking...and I'm not a bit partial!  (Hopefully Connie will have a picture of her that she can put in this letter.)  Annella and Jeremy got out of their apartment and are now renting a nice house in the Omaha area.  Little Nathan who turned 1 in April, is adapting well to having a new little sister...he pats her on the head and gives her kisses and loves.   

Adam has been re-stationed to a Coast Guard station in Seattle where he is doing some work on the boat that my brother's son, Kevin, is on.  Adam recently went to Florida to do some study on Diesel engines and right now he is on a temporary duty repairing the boat, The Alex Hailey, which is in Alaska.  Adam and Bekah's three beautiful little boys, if you want to describe little boys as beautiful, are all doing so great.  Little Adam just turned 4, and the twins, Ean and Eathan turned 2 in June.  I was up to their home on the 4th of July and got to go up again for Adam's birthday.  I have such fun with those little boys, they are just great to be around.  Adam and Bekah just bought a home in Port Orchards, it is big enough for the whole family...as it was they had a one bedroom house and the boys took the bedroom while Adam and Bekah slept on the floor in the living room...they needed a bigger home. 

I haven't done much recently on my home but I have the urge lately to finish a few things I began...like my front fence, made from headboards I retrieved from the motel where I worked, and the wallpaper in my kitchen, taking off the wallpaper in the family room and painting it, and cleaning up my backyard. 

I am working on children's quilts now, I have 4 to make for the grandchildren, I enjoy making them so much.  I must go now, have much to do. 

My Love to all, Jane 

Charlie and Marilyn send their warmest Holiday Greetings to all our family. We have had a busy time this year and can’t believe the holidays are upon us again. 

 Charlie is working almost full-time now with his pilot/escort service.  He loves that truck and has it completely equipped to be the best pilot out there. In addition to the computer, printer, GPS, hands-free phone, scanner and refrigerator he is thinking of adding a Snug-top to the truck so he can sleep comfortably when he is on overnight trips. 

 With Charlie working so much, Marilyn continues to sew and create for many contests upcoming this next year.  She won a 1^st place award this year with Bernina/Benartex “Travels in Time Challenge” with an embroidered quilt entitled “Adventure in My Garden”.  This prize was a brand new Bernina Sewing/Embroidery machine. So now, we have 3 machines going at one time!

 Travels this year have really been lots of fun.  In June we took the trailer on our yearly June trek to Oregon, but went up to Prince George, Canada first to visit Charlie’s son Chuck and wife Deb.  Got in a little sailing with them while we were there.  We then came south again stopping in Salem, for Charlie to get in some riding with brother Don and attend the family reunion.  Charlie rode in Cycle Oregon again this year – enjoyable and fun for him, as always.  Marilyn had an opportunity to travel with several girls to Scotland and Ireland for three weeks in August – what an experience – especially the highlands of Scotland!  Weather was beautiful with only a couple of days of light rain and the flowers were in bloom profusely. The hills of Inverness and Ireland were covered in purple heather.  A great time and took over a 1000 pictures on the digital camera. I made a movie on the computer with all the photos for all of us to enjoy.

 We hope all of you will have a wonderful holiday and look forward to seeing many of you again next summer.   Hugs, Charlie and Marilyn 

From: Gale, James B NWW [mailto:James.B.Gale@nww01.usace.army.mil]
Sent: Sunday, September 25, 2005 6:35 PM
Subject: RE: greetings from Mississippi

Mom,

Thanks for the pictures.   Everything here in the text is fine. 

I spent today in Walthall County getting ready to set up 2 debris reduction station. The County seat is Tylertown.  Tylertown is the home town of Brittany Spears.  The estimates on vegetative debris are 200,000 cubic yards.  They are talking about giving us the demolition debris mission.  We would than go in and remove structures that were damaged by the storm.

 Yesterday,  we were under a severe tornado warning.  We were pulled from the field and hung out in the hotel until 1200.  The storms let up and a group of us went over to Natchez (start of the Natchez trail or Trace)  it is a small town on the Mississippi River.  The town was built in the late 1700’s.  We found a little BBQ place for dinner. It was great!  The plantation buildings and other structures were great too.  I have not down loaded any pictures yet.  I will send some.

Love you lots

From: Connie Gale [mailto:congale@ispwest.com]
Sent: Sunday, September 25, 2005 11:28 AM
Subject: RE: greetings from Mississippi

Jay,  May I put some of this in the newsletter?  Let me know what you do NOT want printed.  Thx, Mom

I attached a couple of pictures of Tami that I took at Di & Kennedy’s luncheon . . .

From: Gale, James B NWW [mailto:James.B.Gale@nww01.usace.army.mil]
Sent: Thursday, September 22, 2005 6:24 PM
Subject: RE: greetings from Mississippi

Greetings,

Today in Brookhaven, the outer rings of Rita were present in the sky.  The winds were about 10-15 miles per hour.  We are to get about 6 inches of rain tomorrow and the next few days.  I am here for the duration of the storm.  If Rita hooks north east,  I could be in the path.  We will see how it moves.  There is not a hotel for 300-400 miles north of here.  The evacuees of Texas and Louisiana are here.  The Wal-Mart is a zoo the town is flooded with people fleeing.  I-55 is plugged with the evacuees.  

The trucks moving debris for us are now being slowed by the masses of people. 

Tuesday, the debris site that I was at took in 28,000 cubic yards of vegetative debris.  We started two new sites today.  The vegetative debris sites are set up with a large tub grinder and several loaders on about 100 acres.  The site can only take in debris when the Corps reps are onsite. However, the grinding goes on 24 hours a day, or as needed to keep up.  If Rita does not delay us too much, I will be running 6 sites in three counties of Mississippi.  I am managing a group of 20 individuals and report totals up daily.  In conjunction with the site work, there is a team of Corps personnel that are following the contractors around to make sure that they only pick up the debris that FEMA has designated for us to handle. 

There is talk that the team will be split after Rita.  50% to stay here and finish the mission and back fill the vacancies.  The other 50% would be the initial attack on the damage to Texas and Louisiana.  I will keep you up to date on my location as the comm’s allow.

I will send some pictures in a couple of days. 

Later from MS

James 

Subject: greetings from Mississippi

Greetings Friends and Family.

I departed Walla Walla on Tuesday morning.  I in processed in Vicksburg and was sent down range today.  I am in Hattiesburg and will be further deployed tomorrow morning.   I will be stationed in Brookhaven, which is about 2 hours west of my present location. 

This area is not that bad.  The gulf region is BAD.  We are bracing for some of the side affects of Rita. 

I will write as I get time. 

Take Care,

James  (Jim’s Connie’s Jay)

From: Fromherz Family [mailto:rkmfromkofc@juno.com]
Sent: Monday, October 03, 2005 11:43 AM
Subject: RE: RETIREMENT   This was worth passing on......................

 As some of us who aren't retired yet, look forward to that day, I need to find out if this is one of those possible activities that keep you busy???  If you don't like the bumper sticker used, you can edit it to our own political character.           Rocket Russ in Reno

 Subject: RETIREMENT

 PEOPLE FREQUENTLY ASK RETIRED PEOPLE WHAT THEY DO TO MAKE THEIR DAYS INTERESTING. I WENT TO THE STORE THE OTHER DAY. I WAS ONLY IN THERE FOR ABOUT 5 MINUTES. WHEN I CAME OUT THERE WAS A CITY COP WRITING OUT A PARKING TICKET. I WENT UP TO HIM AND SAID, "COME ON, BUDDY, HOW ABOUT GIVING A SENIOR A BREAK?" HE IGNORED ME AND CONTINUED WRITING THE TICKET. I CALLED HIM A  NAME. HE GLARED AT ME AND STARTED WRITING ANOTHER TICKET FOR HAVING WORN TIRES. SO I CALLED HIM A WORSE NAME. HE FINISHED THE SECOND TICKET AND PUT IT ON THE WINDSHIELD WITH THE FIRST.  THEN HE STARTED WRITING A THIRD TICKET. THIS WENT ON FOR ABOUT 20 MINUTES. THE MORE I ABUSED HIM THE MORE TICKETS HE WROTE. I DIDN'T CARE.  MY CAR WAS PARKED AROUND THE CORNER AND THIS ONE HAD A "HILLARY IN '08" BUMPER STICKER ON IT. I TRY TO HAVE A LITTLE FUN EACH DAY NOW THAT I'M RETIRED. IT'S IMPORTANT AT OUR AGE.

From: michael.e.holt@att.net [mailto:michael.e.holt@att.net]
Sent: Tuesday, October 04, 2005 2:54 PM
Subject: FW: Commo check (UNCLASSIFIED)

-------------- Forwarded Message: --------------
From: "Fromherz, Judy L MAJ HQDA DCS G-8" <Judy.Fromherz@hqda.army.mil>
Subject: Commo check (UNCLASSIFIED)
Date: Tue, 4 Oct 2005 19:53:41 +0000

Murph

Hello from the pentagon.  I am here at work and wired! 

Please pass my new email address to Marty, Art, Russ, & Connie. 

Love ya
 
Classification:  UNCLASSIFIED
Caveats: NONE  

From: Charlie Fromherz [mailto:charlesf@verizon.net]
Sent: Thursday, October 06, 2005 7:46 PM
To: Editor - ERRC Laurie 'Wo' Smith
Subject: FIRE IN CALIMESA

For all our friends and family who have or have not contacted us about our fire in Calimesa.  Marilyn and I were both gone for a couple of days and also heard of the fire on the TV.  Our neighbors assured us all was ok at the Plantation - wind was blowing away from us, but everything was dark and smoky.  It was very close on the ridge behind us - but our area is very cleared of brush because of so much building going on around us.  Thanks for all your emails and calls of concern.  Charlie and Marilyn

From: michael.e.holt@att.net [mailto:michael.e.holt@att.net]
Sent: Friday, October 07, 2005 10:49 AM
Subject: New E-mail address

Hi everyone we have a new e-mail address it is michaelmary50@msn.com

Mike, Mary, Brian & Travis

From: Fromherz, Judy L MAJ HQDA DCS G-8 [mailto:Judy.Fromherz@hqda.army.mil]
Sent: Friday, October 07, 2005 11:32 AM
Subject: Commo check (UNCLASSIFIED)

 Hello all This is my new work email address.  I have reported into the Pentagon and am looking forward to starting my new job.  I will be in school for about a month beginning 17 October which will help me do my job! 

Taz and I have moved into our new apartment.  The address is:  Judy Fromherz, 5044 Eisenhower Ave # 405, Alexandria, VA 22304. 

We have already had our first medical emergency.....Taz got her tail caught in the door last evening and has an inch-long gash that was bleeding.  I am taking her to the vet this afternoon to make sure that it does not get infected.  Darn those automatically closing doors! 

I have a special request...please take this to heart if it applies to you......please do not forward jokes or funny anecdotes to this email since it is my official work email.  I would, however, love to hear from you so don't hesitate to drop me a note. :) 

Take care and wish me luck
Judy  (Art’s Judy)

From: Fromherz Family [mailto:rkmfromkofc@juno.com]
Sent: Friday, October 07, 2005 12:42 PM
Subject: Fw: Kevin's Rank Promotion

Dad,  Here is the advancement message that was sent out.  I was promoted to  Operations Spe-cialist Second Class, which is the same as Petty Officer Second Class, which is the same as an E-5.    Kevin  ##########################

7. THE FOLLOWING MEMBERS MAY BE ADVANCED TO THE RATING/PAYGRADE

INDICATED.

BORJA 000740 OS2

J PANKEY 000085 OS2

T WERNER 000289 OS2

K FROMHERZ 000508 OS2

8. ADVANCEMENTS OCCUR BASED ON ACTUAL VACANCIES IRRESPECTIVE OF THE CUTOFF. ENLISTED CUTOFFS ARE DESIGNED FOR PLANNING AND GUARANTEE ADVANCEMENTS TO THOSE PERSONNEL AT/ABOVE THE CUTOFF, BASED ON PROJECTED VACANCIES DURING A SPECIFIC PERIOD OF ELIGIBILITY. AS NEW INFORMATION BECOMES AVAILABLE, THE NEED TO PUBLISH MODIFIED CUTOFF NBRS IS EXAMINED.

9. PERSONNEL ARE REMINDED THAT IN KEEPING WITH THE INTENT OF THE POLICY, PERSONNEL WHO APPEAR ON TWO SWE ADVANCEMENT LISTS AND ARE EITHER OFFERED ADVANCEMENT OR IDENTIFIED FOR ADVANCEMENT FROM THE EARLIER SWE ELIGIBILITY LIST AS A RESULT OF A REVISION TO THE CUTOFFS, ARE REMOVED FROM THE LATER SWE ELIGIBILITY LIST IN WHICH

THEY COMPETED.

10. RELEASED BY CAPT M. D. BLIVEN, CHIEF, ENLISTED PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT DIVISION.

11. INTERNET RELEASE AUTHORIZED.

BT  NNNN 

From: Daniel David Lewis Frommherz [mailto:mckenzie_market@mckenzievalleymarket.com]
Sent: Friday, October 07, 2005 6:55 PM
Subject: KEEPERS

Their marriage was good, their dreams focused. Their best friends lived barely a wave away. I can see them now, Dad in trousers, tee shirt and a hat and Mom in a house dress, lawn mower in one hand, and dish-towel in the other. It was the time for fixing things. A curtain rod, the kitchen radio, screen door, the oven door, the hem in a dress.

Things we keep. It was a way of life, and sometimes it made me crazy.  All that re-fixing, eating, renewing, I wanted just once to be wasteful. Waste meant affluence. Throwing things away meant you knew there'd always be more.

But then my father died, and on that clear summer's night just before dawn, in the warmth of the hospital room, I was struck with the pain of learning that sometimes there isn't any more. Sometimes, what we care about most gets all used up and goes away... never to return.

So... while we have it... it's best we love it... and care for it... and fix it when it's broken... and heal it when it's sick.

This is true... for marriage... and old cars... and children with bad report cards... and dogs with bad hips... and aging parents... and grandparents

We keep them because they are worth it, because we are worth it. Some things we keep. Like a best friend that moved away or a classmate we grew up with.

There are just some things that make life important, like people we know who are special... and so, we keep them close! I received this from someone who thinks I am a keeper, so I'm sending it to the people I think of in the same way. Now it's your turn to send this to those people that are "keepers" in your life Good friends are like stars... You don't always see them, but you know they are always there. Keep them close! 

TEN THINGS GOD WON'T ASK ON THAT DAY

1. God won't ask what kind of car you drove.  He'll ask how many people you drove who didn't have transportation.

2. God won't ask the square footage of your house, He'll ask how many people you welcomed into your home.

3. God won't ask about the clothes you had in your closet, He'll ask how many you helped to clothe.

4. God won't ask what your highest salary was. He'll ask if you compromised your character to obtain it.

5. God won't ask what your job title was. He'll ask if you performed your job to the best of your ability.

6. God won't ask how many friends you had.  He'll ask how many people to whom you were a friend.

7. God won't ask in what neighborhood you lived, He'll ask how you treated your neighbors.

8. God won't ask about the color of your skin, He'll ask about the content of your character.

9. God won't ask why it took you so long to seek Salvation.  He'll lovingly take you to your mansion in heaven, and not to the gates of Hell.

10. God won't have to ask how many people you forwarded this to.  He already knows your decision. 

From: Fr. Gerard Gross [mailto:gerard@trappist.net]
Sent: Monday, October 10, 2005 6:16 PM
Subject: RE: NewsletterFromTheHeart #10 Reminder Postcard

 Dear Family,  Peace be with you.

Our news of the year is long and involved. We had a huge fire that demolished the old monastery started by three by lightning strikes in a row says an observer. Fr. Charles, Br. Placid and Fr. Lawrence died this year after two years with no deaths. Plenty of other could die any time though no one seems to be dying at this moment! After a long vocation drought we have two Postulants. One research scientist from Nigeria and the other an LPN. Our Nigerian brother Emeka will return to his monastery in Nigeria soon, but he hopes to return to join us. His mother died recently at age 108! I now am not only still Guestmaster and Cantor-Director of music—but also learning the baking operation by working there three mornings a week making fruitcake. This is preparing me to take over the job of chief baker someday perhaps! At least they want someone else to know all the ins and outs of the operation besides Br. Basil who has resigned the job but helps keep it going for the moment. One of the office ladies resigned last Thursday, so we are look for a new registrar to hire. We are well covered for the moment. We have had perhaps the rainiest summer on record followed by 0 rain in September. October has already produced 6.3 inches so the drought is over again!

            Other news is we are buying through ecologically minded donors (including hopefully the State of Georgia, which pays for development rights on land to guarantee a green space) the Susong property that dwells in the center of our property to prevent it from being developed. Meanwhile, our Abbot Dom Francis Michael is in Rome for our General Chapter of Abbots and Abbesses.

God bless you all. Please pray for us and we surely keep you all in our prayers.

Shalom

From Marie Fromherz  (Joe’s Marie)

Dear All my Relatives,

Mary – Christ – Mass!!!!

I had several hernias repaired and it was successful but the anesthesia threw me into my 4^th nervous breakdown.  It lasted 40 days August 15 to September 24, 2005.  Now I am completely and entirely well.   I feel GREAT now. 

Thank you Connie for all you do.

Love in Baby Jesus, Marie Therese Fromherz

Snail Mail from LouAnn (Art’s LouAnn)

Dear Family Newsletter

            I’ve been working at Lowe’s HIW for 3 ½ years now.   

Jake is living with me now; he is working with vocational rehab to help him get a job.  WE have taken a bounce of clothes to Goodwill, St. Vincents DePaul, I go bowling every Thursday.  Jake likes to go too, so gets me out of the house.  I have recently made Stephanie some curtains for her room.  They were a surprise to her when she came to visit.  They turned out pretty good and she likes them.  I am also putting horse print wall paper borders up all along the top of her walls, and glow in the dark horses on the wall.

            In my room I painted it a very pretty blue and as soon as I get the floors sanded (I have all wood floors in my house) I will set up my water bed. And put my shelves up and then put up my huge Pooh Bear, Kanga and Roo, Rabbit, Eeyore and my collection of small Tiggers.  My Tiggers do an assortment of little things, like hop up and down when you  push down on his head and other stuff of similar nature.

            My next project is working on my living room, need to replace the lathe and plaster stuff that makes it impossible to find the studs.  I have jimmy rigged one desk for my computer and it seems fairly stable.  I also have two more desks one for sewing and one for business.

            Jake, Ted, Stephanie and I have put up a picket fence which I managed to wait for the rain to start so now I have to wait for it to stop, so I can finish it and make it look right.

            I need to find a good home from my German Shepherd names Kloie.

            Teddy came to visit this week-end.  I had to work so didn’t get much time to see him, but did find the time to make lasagna.  Jake and Ted put away all two full casserole dishes, both my boys are 6 foot or better, Stephanie isn’t very short either anymore!  Stephanie is 13 now and shie is up to my shoulders now and I am 5’6”, Ted is 15, Jake is 19, Greg is 21.  Can anyone inform me of where the years went?

            Miss Dustie is Satan reincarnated as a cat, she just ran up and grabbed my arm and then ran, however she does this with everyone except Stephanie.  She gets real lovey dovey with Stephanie.

We got the dishwasher up and running . . . needed some electrical work and the stove too.  I bought a new faucet for the bathroom.  Jake put it in and did a very good job, so far one week and no leaks yet! 

            I made 3 baby boy blankets for my co-workers, there wasn’t any girls made.  Ted got a BEAVER blanket hand made by me for his birthday in March, his was easy but Stephanie’s is a bit more difficult because I have to lay it out more, but do not have space.  I’m also making a baby blanket for a friend (Connie Franklin) grandbaby.  I also made Greg a Log Cabin Quilt for his birthday one year, which isn’t easy either, and Ted an African one with Lions and lizards on it. 

            Well took enough of you ear, Love you,       LouAnn

From: MICHAEL MARY HOLT [mailto:michaelmary50@msn.com]  (Art’s Mary)
Sent: Wednesday, October 12, 2005 8:27 AM
Subject: Hi

This is my new address. Moving into the new world with DSL. Talk with you soon.  Mary

From: Roy J Reichenbach [mailto:rjrx2@juno.com] (Joe’s Rita)
Sent: Tuesday, October 11, 2005 3:56 PM
Subject: For the Fromherz Family Newsletter...........

Dear Connie and Jim, hope all is well with you and your loved ones.   Marge and Ryan are busy and happy.  Roy and I are too.  Last August 26th, Roy had his gallbladder removed.  He has recovered quite well since.  He, however, has some other health issues.  We are working on those.  He keeps working and has enjoyed playing some golf this past Summer with me.  He made a set of clubs for me and himself.   Very nice!

I've been going to the indoor city pool all Summer and exercising in the deep end.  I try to go three times a week.  Yesterday, October 10th, it snowed all day, so I didn't get up at 6AM to go swim.  I did today, though.  We heard on the news last night that up around Lyons, CO, near where my sister Sylvia and her family live, they might have gotten from 2 to 3 feet of the white stuff!  Denver had one foot in places.  Picked all our flowers the day before a hard frost was predicted, put them in vases all around the house and enjoyed them for better than a week.  We had some huge purple zinnia's we had planted from seed, which I nursed along all Summer.  They barely got bloomed really well before the first frost a week ago.  We've gotten hard frosts and snow storms much sooner then this before.

We miss all of you Fromherz Family members "out there".  Thank's to you, Connie, we hear about those who choose to write.  A very Blessed Thanksgiving, and Peaceful, Happy Christmas to each one of you!  Love,

Rita Jo and Roy Reichenbach (in Cheyenne, Wyoming). 

From: Fromherz, Christopher (Charley’s Bill’s Christopher)

[mailto:Christopher.Fromherz@Whiting-Turner.com]  
Sent: Monday, October 31, 2005 10:23 AM

Jim/Connie, The attached picture is of:

Please let me know if you need anything else.

Christopher Fromherz   
Project Manager
The Whiting-Turner Contracting Company

From: Erica Fromherz [mailto:erica@smartceo.com]  (Charley’s Bill’s Erica)
Sent: Tuesday, November 01, 2005 8:55 AM
Subject: Maryland Fromherz Family Update.

 Attached is a pict of William Fromherz's son and daughter Chris and Erica Fromherz. Chris is holding his daughter Ella Mae. This past weekend Chris and Ella went to visit Erica up in Baltimore, Maryland. She is currently an art director for three magazines: SmartWoman Magazine, Washington SmartCEO magazine and Baltimore SmartCEO magazine. Chris is currently a  project manager for Whiting-Turner. Ella is currently the cutest little girl ever.  They both live on the Beard family farm in the house that Chris built with his wife Beth. Last June William Christopher Fromherz was born and joined their family. 

From: MICHAEL MARY HOLT [mailto:michaelmary50@msn.com]
Sent: Saturday, November 05, 2005 11:41 AM
Subject: Winnie Fromherz

Happy Thanksgiving to all. I will be home this Thanksgiving, last year I was with Judy in Sacramento for Thanksgiving and Christmas. Marty and family took me down and I spent Thanksgiving with them and Russ and family at Judy's. I ended up in the hospital with breathing problems the day after everyone left. That was not fun. At Christmas Judy and I flew to LA and spent Christmas and the week after with Mary and Family in Disneyland. We had a big surprise when we were getting on a ride and there was Ryan and his wife spending the day at Disneyland. They spent the rest of the day with us. We had a very nice visit. Now that Judy is in Virginia she is not close enough to do any of it.

I am still at West Stayton, upstairs is beautiful, but some work is needed yet. I am downstairs after 40 years it is rather lonesome, but I am still home.

Thanks to Jim Gale and his big trailer he brought some things from Judy in California that she could not move. Our grandson Jerod was a big help unloading. Jim and Jerod made quick work. Art Jr. picked up the leaves and mowed the lawn also put on the fall fertilizer it looks good, but did not take long to get covered with leaves again. We had no filberts this year and the walnuts are bad. Must have been the rain when they were in bloom. Judy is too busy to even write;  her address is

Marty and family picked me up and we took a day trip to Mt. St. Helen's. It was beautiful and I really enjoyed the day. They are going to pick me up next week to go to a concert that Jamia is in.

 I still bowl once a week, but have to travel to Salem since the Stayton bowling alley lost its roof last year. Helping with breakfast at Shaw once a month keeps me busy also. I played Bingo with Art, Terry, Scott and Mary last week at the boys and girls club in Salem. I had a machine and when my number came up everyone yelled bingo way before I did.

 Once a month Mary and I go and have breakfast and play at the Casino for a couple of hours. It is a good outing we never win much, but have a nice time.

Love to all,   Winnie Fromherz 

Sent: Saturday, November 05, 2005 10:28 AM
Subject: Innocence is priceless

INNOCENCE IS PRICELESS

One Sunday morning, the pastor noticed little Alex standing in the foyer of the church staring up at a large plaque. It was covered with names with small American flags mounted on either side of it.

The seven year old had been staring at the plaque for some time, so The pastor walked up, stood beside the little boy, and said quietly, "Good morning Alex."

 "Good morning Pastor," he replied, still focused on the plaque.

"Pastor, what is this?" he asked the pastor.

 The pastor answered, "Well, son, it's a memorial to all the young men and women who died in the service."

Soberly, they just stood together, staring at the large plaque. Finally, little Alex's voice, barely audible and trembling with fear, asked,

"Which service, the 9:45 or the 11:15?" 

THE INTERVIEW WITH GOD

I dreamed I had an interview with God.

“So you would like to interview me?” God asked.

“If you have the time” I said.

God smiled. “My time is eternity.”
“What questions do you have in mind for me?”

“What surprises you most about humankind?”

God answered...
“That they get bored with childhood,
they rush to grow up, and then
long to be children again.”

“That they lose their health to make money...
and then lose their money to restore their health.”

“That by thinking anxiously about the future,
they forget the present,
such that they live in neither
the present nor the future.”

"That they live as if they will never die,
and die as though they had never lived.”

God’s hand took mine
and we were silent for a while.

And then I asked...
“As a parent, what are some of life’s lessons
you want your children to learn?”

“To learn they cannot make anyone
love them. All they can do
is let themselves be loved.”

“To learn that it is not good
to compare themselves to others.”

“To learn to forgive
by practicing forgiveness.”

“To learn that it only takes a few seconds
to open profound wounds in those they love,
and it can take many years to heal them.”

“To learn that a rich person
is not one who has the most,
but is one who needs the least.”

“To learn that there are people
who love them dearly,
but simply have not yet learned
how to express or show their feelings.”

“To learn that two people can
look at the same thing
and see it differently.”

“To learn that it is not enough that they
forgive one another, but they must also forgive themselves.”

"Thank you for your time," I said humbly.

"Is there anything else
you would like your children to know?"

God smiled and said,
“Just know that I am here... always.”
-author unknown 

From: Pat Zollner [mailto:patzollner@charter.net]
Sent: Saturday, November 05, 2005 4:56 PM
Subject: Greetings to all the Fromherz family~

Greetings to all the Fromherz family~

Here's a little update on the Zollners.  Paul took a new job with Mid-Valley Bank, a local bank based out of Woodburn, and we decided to relocate to Mt. Angel.  Our mailing address is:  P.O. Box 34, Mt. Angel, OR 97362, and our phone # is (503) 845-2982.  We've been overhauling a house that we bought in town and preparing to build a new house behind it.  I've been enjoying the task of designing the house and am just about ready to put plans in for permit.  Now I'm job hunting.  Probably won't try to continue music ministry--it was too much of a burden on family life.  Whatever I end up doing will have to be new news at a later date.  Stay tuned. 

Our oldest daughter, Katie, and her husband, Jim, wrapped up their study programs at the University of Oregon and are heading to Thailand for a 2-year Peace Corps assignment, beginning in January.  Monica is working in a rural health clinic this year, will apply to nursing schools again after the first of the year.  She's enjoying having a place of her own for the first time (in Eugene).  Tecie is living at home right now, attending classes at Chemeketa Community College and working part time.  Christiana is a freshman in high school this year--next weekend she'll be old enough to learn to drive!  

 It's nice to be closer to my folks.  They're just a few blocks away.  Hopefully by a year from now, we'll be more settled in to life here in Mt. Angel.  Our house should be built, I'll have a new job.  Meanwhile, we're happily transitioning.  Can't complain. 

Love to you all~  Pat, Paul and family 

 Pat Zollner
P.O. Box 34
1125 Academy St.
Mt. Angel, OR 97362
(503) 845-2982

From: MICHAEL MARY HOLT [mailto:michaelmary50@msn.com]
Sent: Sunday, November 06, 2005 12:57 PM
To: Connie Gale
Subject: Hi

 Happy Holidays to all: We have been having a great time this year. Brian and Travis both played baseball. This was Brian's first year to play on the Chris Holt Field his team did extremely well and ended up taking 2nd place in State at the end of July. Mike was one of there coaches. Travis had a lot of fun also and it was fun watching him. After baseball Carrie's son came out and spent 2 weeks with us. He was able to join the football camp that Brian goes to. It is run by Tom Smyth who is one of the best football coaches in Oregon.

 This year the Relay for Life was a little wet. It started out raining and then ended up being real nice. Chris' Crusaders team were joined by 4 other Keizer teams. We really enjoyed our time. It is a very powerful experience. The American Cancer Society has been able to help with research in the finding of a cure that will one day get rid of cancer for good. They have come a long way. If anyone would like to join us it is always Father's day weekend starting at 12:00 pm. on Friday and going to 12:00 p.m. on Saturday at CCC in Salem. Come walk a couple of laps with us. Buz Fromherz and Kenny Gerding were able to join us this year. Judy always drives up from California to join us also. I hope she will be able to make it again this year even though she is in Virginia.

 Brian and I were able to fly to California to the ACS youth conference with other kids from our church. It was a great conference and they had a lot of skits that helped youth with Catholic teachings. They also had a healing mass that was very powerful. We were able to spend a couple of days in Disneyland also. Father Gary joined us one of those days. The kids got him on the Tower of Terror, but he said he would never do that again. We enjoyed the fire works and all the parades.

 This fall all the boys played football.  Mike got drafted to help coach the Vikings. This was Brian's team last year he did such a good job they would not let him go. He had a lot of fun and loves football. He also was in charge of the ball boys at the McNary games. Brian played for Whiteaker Middle School and also had a lot of fun. He was the Center and also played defense. Travis played flag this year and as he puts it they were unstoppable. I spent a lot of time watching football this year. I guess that what you get when you have all boys. Against all odds the McNary High School team won The Valley League this year. They will play against South Eugene for the first round of the playoffs. Even though my boys are not playing I guess I will be watching more football. Although there is nothing better on a Friday night then to watch High School Football.

 On the second Sunday in December is a candle lighting for all children who have passed in the world. At 7:00 p.m. all over the world people get together to light a candle and say a pray. It is a special time for us and we usually get a group together to light a candle in the Keizer Town Square ware a tree has been placed in honor of Chris.  

 Travis just celebrated his 7th birthday. I can't believe he is already in first grade. At the end of Kindergarten last year they tested him at a 2nd grade level in reading. He loves to read.

 I am still running my daycare out of our home and although this group of kids keeps me on my toes. I really enjoy my job. I have been running my business for 12 years. Several of the kids that I helped raise have been in the paper recently. A.J. is top in Gymnastics and is also helping youth in his spare time. Braden is a senior this year and will be part of the youth advisor team for the Statesman Journal. Taylor is a Black Belt and also teaches kids Karate. Makes me proud that I had a hand in raising them.

 We hope that everyone has a great year.

Love Mary, Mike, Brian and Travis Holt

From: 2hartz@bellsouth.net [mailto:2hartz@bellsouth.net]
Sent: Sunday, November 06, 2005 11:18 AM
Subject: Fat Lady.....

To all...................             Yes, We can finally hear the fat lady singing.... Our "Wilma" ordeal is over at last. We are closing the backyard camper up in favor of home grown hot showers and refrigeration. Our front porch "Wilma kitchen" will be dismantled and the gas grill will return to it's backyard place. We cooked and ate on the front porch for the last 2 weeks. We were lucky to have the camper as we had the small refr. and a small gas water heater. We were able to keep some food and get showers...It was a luxury compared with what most people had to put up with. The whole ordeal was more like a involuntary camping trip that seemed like it would never end. A lot of neighbors had generators. Only problem is there was no gas available. We had plenty of gas in our cars (but nowhere to go). We had a good supply of water, ice, and propane. Most people in Florida prepare for this as they've been thru it so many times. We ran low on ice a few times but by the third day we got the refr. in the camper running and only needed ice to cool the beer and soda. 

    Yesterday, workers from N. Florida, Tennessee, and other places stayed in the neighborhood all day and we finally saw lights at 6 PM. Our neighbor Rhonda bribed them with beer so they stayed until they finished. At 2AM the lights went out again and we had our last breakfast (I hope) on the porch this morning. They came back on and are still on as I type...We hope they stay on this time. There are still a lot of areas without power so we expect problems as they get everyone up and running.

    We started writing down what we went thru but became bored after a few days. Bored and too tired to write. We (Terry, Missy, and I) worked very hard the first 4 or 5 days using chain saws to 1. uncover the cars 2. clear the driveway, 3. uncover the camper, and 4 get the trees off the fence. The yard is cleaned up but our last two big ficus trees are gone. We lost the tree in the back yard earlier to Katrina.I managed to get both chainsaws running . I guess I wasn't moving fast enough for Terry, so she wanted her own saw. We cut everything into pieces that could be hauled and dragged to the front yard and piled at the street. We are still cutting and hauling but it looks a lot better now.

    Damage: Missy's car has 3000.00 in damage. A window, the roof, 2 doors dented, and a trashed interior. We bring it in tomorrow for repair. It will take a few weeks as State Farm insurance alone had over 29000 claims on car damage. Liz, our cottage tennant had her windshield broken and damage to the roof and door. She's still waiting for an adjuster to come out. Her car can't be driven so it will take awhile. My truck has a few little dents and scratches from the ficus that was on top of it but it's getting a little beat up anyhow. Terry's Mazda was in the garage and was the only car with no damage. The limb that hit Liz'es car was the same one that hit Missy's. It was about an 8 inch thick limb that flew about 50 feet to take out both cars. Our roof and eaves were also hit by the same limb but I'm hoping the damage is minimal.

Our fence has damage on all three sides. It's hard to get anything done after a storm like this. Any repair costs double as parts and labor become scarce.

    Birds and Bees........ Right after the storm we were amazed to find many new species of birds......Hummingbirds, orioles, and exotics....Some I think flew in from Cancun and the Yucatan as I heard them tweeting in Spanish......We also found a giant bee hive under the oak tree in the back yard. It was loaded with honey and the bees were busy cleaning it out. We thought at first that they too flew in from the Yucatan, but then I heard them buzzing in English.

    We watched part of the storm from our porch. Whenever we heard the "train" coming, we would run up near the door. The "train" was the sound the wind made as it howled from west to east. The wind was very loud and everything shook. Our 3 light outdoor fixture survived the storm but 2 of the bulbs had unscrewed themselves. I screwed them back last night when we got temporary power and they all worked.

    The scenery in S. Florida has changed. There is very little green on anything. Our once beautiful little street now cannot be recognized. Of the 14 ficus trees on this block there is only 1 left after Katrina and Wilma. The shade is gone along with the privacy and beauty. I don't think it will ever be the same.......

                                                                                     Bob and Terry......... 

From: Pat Zollner [mailto:patzollner@charter.net]
Sent: Sunday, November 06, 2005 6:56 PM
To: Connie Gale
Subject: Mom's Bit for the Newsletter

Hi, Connie~

Here's Mom's input for the newsletter:

 November 5, 2005

Hello Connie and Newsletter~

Yes, we are still on deck and still on our "own."  We are in relative good health but do everything in slow motion. 

            We did dare to take another cruise--this time through the Panama Canal.  We had a wonderful time, taking in mostly the activities on board ship and less off ship.  Louis did take one bus tour in Acapulco, Mexico.  I spent much time in the viewing "crow's nest" on the 12th level, with my good binoculars.

            This was a large ship with 1700 guest passengers and 750 workers and staff crew.  We could enjoy entertainment all day and night, eat wherever we liked in 12 different places (high class or sandwich bar), 2 swimming pools, hot pools, etc.  I had my walker and did a lot of walking and could see all of the maneuvering going through the canal.  It was a good education--never imagined before in our lives.

            We did have to cruise away from one of those hurricane storms and had some rough sea (but didn't get sea sick). 

            I was surprised to see other people more disabled than we were--several with motorized carts and with more help.

            We were lucky with no storm crossing the Gulf to land at Houston, Texas, where we left the ship and came home by plane. 

            That last day was tough--we are still laying "low" getting back to our life here at the Towers.

            Halloween is over, Thanksgiving is coming and Christmas will be here.  I don't know if we will get a Christmas letter out this year, so here is our Christmas greetings for the Year 2005.

            You probably all know that we senior Fromherzes are losing ground.  There were no senior men at our last family reunion.  You know that Charlie passed away a couple of years ago, then we lost Arthur last Fall, Albert before Christmas and Joe (Adolf) this Spring.  Now brother Jim is terminal (but knowing him, he may be with us many more days, weeks, months, or years??).  Brother Walter is also on the poor health list--both boys need our constant prayers.  Mary Gerding and I are still holding our own.  Both of us have "good days" and "not so good days." 

            Oops, the telephone is ringing--back in a minute.  It was our daughter, Claire, calling from Lincoln City where Patrick's mother passed away yesterday evening.  After they take care of everything they will be visiting us later this week.  Please remember them also in your prayers.

            We have had lots of good news in our family this year, but will talk about it another time?? 

            Love to all, also wish you the best Christmas ever and a Happy New Year in 2006.  We aren't going places much anymore, but we love company.  Come visit us in 2006.  Florence and Louis Gross

            P.S.  It is difficult for me to write like this, as I can no longer read as I write.  And also forgive my errors in typing and spelling??  You know I am 92 and legally blind.  FG

            P.P.S.  Louis says, "Please pray that the Supreme Court nominee is confirmed." 

From: Ken Gerding [mailto:keng@grand-benedicts.com]
Sent: Wednesday, November 09, 2005 12:09 PM
To: congale@ispwest.com
Subject: FW: Holiday Issue NFTH

Connie,  Thanks for the note and reminder.  Yes, I'll be organizing the Bowling tournament again this year for our family reunion.

            Robbi, and I have been busy with everyday life these past few months.  Tyler has moved to Corvallis starting his Freshman year at OSU.  It hardly seem possible that our time with him at home growing up has gone by so quickly.  He is adjusting to college life with ease...  He's majoring in Business and is living in the newly remodeled Weatherford Hall.  With us having season tickets to the Beaver's football games, we see him quite often...  

            As far as writing a few line on the Frog Golf tournament, that should be Buzz's area...  All I know is that we had a good turnout for both Saturdays round at Lake Oswego Municipal Golf Course as well as Marysville in Corvallis on Sunday's Championship round.

It was a close finish between Buzz and myself.  Teeing off on the 9th and final hole, Buzz, who was keeping score, stated that he had a one shot lead.  With the trophy on the line, I managed to beat him by one stroke, thinking I had just forced a playoff for that elusive trophy.  Come to find out, Buzz had miss counted (in my favor) and I had won by 1 stroke...  The Frog Trophy is now proudly displayed at our house if anyone is interested in stopping by... 

            The Bowling Tournament enjoyed a good turnout as well and a good time was had by all who played.  Judy took all honors and the Trophy with a win over her brother Art who was last years winner. 

            Cheers,  Kenny  (Mary’s Kenny)

 "Just a Mom"

A woman, renewing her driver's license at the County Clerk's office was asked by the woman recorder to state her occupation.  She hesitated, uncertain how to classify herself. "What I mean is," explained the recorder, "do you have a job or are you just a...?"  "Of course I have a job," snapped the woman. "I'm a Mom."  "We don't list 'Mom' as an occupation, 'housewife' covers it," said the recorder emphatically.

I forgot all about her story until one day I found myself in the same situation, this time at our own Town Hall.  The Clerk was obviously a career woman, poised, efficient and possessed of a high sounding title like, "Official Interrogator" or "Town Registrar."  "What is your occupation?" she probed.  What made me say it? I do not know. The words simply popped out. "I'm a Research Associate in the field of Child Development and Human Relations.  The clerk paused, ball-point pen frozen in midair and looked up as though she had not heard right. I repeated the title slowly emphasizing the most significant words.  Then I stared with wonder as my pronouncement was written in bold, black ink on the official questionnaire.  "Might I ask," said the clerk with new interest,"just what you do in  your field?"  Coolly, without any trace of fluster in my voice, I heard myself reply, "I have a continuing program of research, (what mother doesn't) in the laboratory and in the field,(normally I would have said indoors and out).  I'm working for my Masters, (the whole darned family) and already have four credits (all daughters). Of course, the job is one of the most demanding in the humanities, (any mother care to disagree?) and I often work 14 hours a day (24 is more like it).  But the job is more challenging than most run-of-the-mill careers and  the rewards are more of a satisfaction rather than just money."  There was an increasing note of respect in the clerk's voice as she completed the form, stood up and personally ushered me to the door.

As I drove into our driveway, buoyed up by my glamorous new career, I  was greeted by my lab assistants -- ages 13, 7, and 3.  Upstairs I could hear our new experimental model, (a 6 month old baby)  in the child development program, testing out a new vocal pattern.  I felt I had scored a beat on bureaucracy! And I had gone on the official records as someone more distinguished and indispensable to mankind than "just another Mom."  Motherhood! What a glorious career! Especially when there's a title on the door.  Does this make grandmothers "Senior Research associates in the field of Child Development and Human Relations" and great grandmothers "Executive Senior Research Associates"?  I think so!!!! I also think it makes Aunts "Associate Research Assistants.   May your troubles be less, your blessings be more and nothing but happiness come to you. 

Dear Connie, I hope you don't mind getting all these pictures, but, like Margaret Mary says, they are quite good and I think you'll enjoy seeing them (us!).  I, myself, give YOU, Connie Gale, permission to use the pictures of Roy and I (and flowers we raised this past Summer) in any way you wish!  I wish I knew how to print some of them out so we could use them for Christmas cards, too.    I think I can get someone to help me like Marge and Ryan, &/or Ryan's mom, Sheri Rayda! 

 Subject: Fw: Washing clothes in the last century]

 Washing Clothes Recipe

Years ago an Alabama grandmother gave the new bride the following  recipe.

 This is supposedly an exact copy as written and found in an old scrapbook with spelling errors and all.

 WASHING CLOTHES

 Build fire in backyard to heat kettle of rain water. Set tubs so  smoke wont blow in eyes if wind is pert.

Shave one hole cake of lie

 soap in boilin water Sort things, make 3 piles,  1 pile white,  1 pile colored,  1 pile work britches and rags

 To make starch, stir flour in cool water to smooth, then thin down with boiling water.

 Take white things, rub dirty spots on board, scrub hard, and boil, then rub colored,  don't boil just wrench and starch.

 Take things out of kettle with broom stick handle, then wrench, and starch.

 Hang old rags on fence. Spread tea towels on grass.

 Pore wrench water in flower bed. Scrub porch with hot soapy water.

 Turn tubs upside down.

 Go put on clean dress, smooth hair with combs.

 Brew cup of tea, sit and rock a spell and count your blessings.

 Congrats! To the newlyweds Michael and Shaleen Martin.  Welcome to our Family Shaleen!

Dear Family and Friends,

WOW!  It’s the Annual Fromherz Reunion for 2005, and it just seems this past year has treated you all well.  As for me this past year has been one of the most exciting years of my life.

            I joined Yahoo personals.com about 10 months ago and with the invention of having some fun and making new friends never believing I could meet my best friend, soulmate and future wife, but God answers prayer in mysterious ways some times.    It is so amazing to me that I had prayed for the perfect woman, and how God delivered more that I could have ever imagined or asked for.  As I gave up my search and decided to leave my future in God’s hands I soon found what I was looking for and realized that God’s plan isn’t always on our timing.

            After many online conversations and phone calls we decided to go hiking at Silver Creek Falls for our first date.  Shaleen is a genuine, down to earth, giving, fun loving, athletic, adventurous, laid back sort of gal.  We instantly hit it off with googley eyes, fluttery hearts, and long lasting conversations.  She attended Portland Bible Colllege, is involved in ministry at Fathers House Church.  Working part time as a nanny allows her more time to build a successful home based business.  As we visited her grandparents in Walla Walla, WA for Thanksgiving I realized how important Family and Friends are to her.  She, like myself did not want a ready made family, but one of her own once she met and married her future husband.  So needless to say, it was love at first date for both of us.

            I like how she keeps me on my toes (well, when they’re actually touching the ground) lol.

            We enjoy spending our time biking, hiking, roller blading, taking long walks, and cuddling up talking about our awesome future together.

            Being that Silver Creek Falls is such a special place to the both of us, what more than a perfect setting to pop the ? under the South Falls and, “SHE SAID YES”!!!

            So with that, Shaleen Renee Wirol and I, Michael Dennis Martin were married at the Peoples Church on April 2, 2005.  The reception concluded at the Creek Side Golf Course.  Our main goal was to have everyone who attended say “That was the most fun I’ve ever had at a wedding”.  And our goal was met.

            I have also been very blessed with Shaleen’s parents being some of the most wonderful genuine people you could ever meet.  The not only helped pull off the wedding of our dreams, but also sent us to Eagle Crest for our honeymoon.  I had no idea how big it is (3000 acres).  We did a long bike ride through out the resort, with the back side running along the Dechutes River, swimming, tennis, basket ball, working out at the sports clubs occupied most of our time, with a few much needed naps in between.

            Shaleen and I are residing in Salem, Oregon.  She claimed to be impressed with my single bachelor pad, but I have to say it needed a woman’s touch.  She has painted the master bedroom, both bathrooms and the living room; it looks so nice with all of her nick knacks and pretties surrounding what we now call home.  We are now in the process of redoing the landscaping, with bark dust, trees, plants, and new grass.

We hope to see all of you at or before our next Fromherz Annual reunion, if not we will miss you.  God Bless you!  With all our love,   Mr & Mrs Michael Martin 

cowboyatheart@comcast.net

1648 Mahogany Ct. NE

Salem, OR 97301

503-999-2310

Florence shares two of her Mother’s hymns (my Grandmother Lucy King Fromherz).  Mom lived and died with these words.  She is our best example for a peaceful death.  Let us follow her way to Heaven FG

 Just For Today

Lord for tomorrow and it’s needs I do not pray.

Keep me, my God, from satin of sin, just for today.

Let me both diligently work and daily pray:

Let me be kind in word and deed just for today.

Let me be slow to do my will prompt to obey:

Oh, keep me in thy loving care just for today.

Let me no wrong or idle word unthinking say:

Set thou a seal upon my lips just for today.

Let me be faithful to thy grace and if today my tide of life

Should ebb away, give me, sweet Lord,

Thy Sacraments Divine, so, for tomorrow its needs

I do not pray, but keep me, guide and love me, Lord,

Just For Today.

When You Come To The End Of A Perfect Day

When You Come To The End Of A Perfect Day,

And you sit alone with your thought,

While the chimes ring out with a carol gay,

For the joy that the day has brought,

Do you think what the end of a perfect day

Can mean to a tired heart.

When the sun goes down with a flaming ray,

And the dear friends have to part?

Well, this is the end of a perfect day.

Bear the end of a journey too.

But it leaves a thought that is big and strong,

With a wish that is kind and true,

For memory has painted this perfect day

With colors that never fade,

And we find that at the end of a perfect day,

The soul of a friend we have made.

Copy of an old song Mom (Lucy King Fromherz) used to sing.  Compliments of Joe Fromherz

THE BIRD ON NELLE’S HAT

Ev’ry Saturday Willie got his pay.

Then he’d call for Nell;

Trousers neatly pressed and nice white vest,

Buttonhole bouquet as well;

On Nellie’s little hat there was a little bird,

That little bird knew lots of things,

It did, upon my word;

And in its quiet way,

It had a lot to say, as the lovers strolled along.

CHORUS

“I’ll be your little honey, I will promise that!”

Said Nellie as she rolled her dreamy eyes.

“It’s a shame to take the money!” said the Bird on Nellie’s hat.

“Last night she said the same to Johnny Wise.”

Then to Nellie Willie whispered as they fondly kissed:

“I’ll bet that you were never kissed like that!”

“Well, he don’t know Nellie like I do!”

Said the saucy little bird on Nellie’s hat.

In a shady nook, by the quiet brook,

Nell and Willie fish;

Lips together meet in kisses sweet,

Love is such a dainty dish:

Then Nellie said to Will such pretty things galore,

But ev’rything that Nellie said,

The bird had heard before;

And as he took her hand and said,

“Oh, ain’t it grand!” Nellie winked the other eye.

Now I haven’t caught a fish, what do you think of that;

Said Nellie with a most bewitching look,

You can bet she knows her business, said the bird on Nellie’s hat.

And Willie is the fish she’s going to hook;

Oh, it’s 12 o’clock, said Willie, as he took her home;

I’ll bet you’re never out as late as that.

Well, he don’t know Nellie like I do!

Said the saucy little bird on Nellie’s hat.

Autumn came along, love’s young dream all wrong;

Will went round to call,

Servant with a grin said, “She’s not in!

Nellie’s gone away, that’s all!”

Poor Willie’s heart was broke, his life seemed all in vain,

Until upon Fifth Avenue

He met his Nell again.

Said he, “We meet once more.”

Said she, “Love’s dream is o’er, but we can be real good friends.”

And I’ll keep your presents, honey, just for old time’s sake.

Said Nellie as she rolled her dreamy eyes.

She has fixed him good and plenty, said the bird on Nellie’s hat.

Oh, Willie, Willie, when will you be wise?

Well, but how about the diamond engagement ring?

Of course, said Willie, You’ll return me that.

We he don’t know Nellie like I do

Said the saucy little bird on Nellie’s hat.

 Letter to my Family facing Life and Death this day

By Florence (Fromherz) Gross

1 Towers Land, Box 2017

Mt. Angel, OR 97362

 July 14, 2005

 Dear Walter, Jimmie and Mary G. Dear Alice, Margaret, Margy, Winnie, Elenora and Mary F., Dear Joan, Sharon, Claire, Father Gerard David, Jerry and Pat and your families:

I have run across a couple of old songs that our mother, your mother-in-law, your grandmother, your Great Grandmother (Lucy King Fromherz) used to sing after her health broke and she felt near death many times.

            Now that we are all in our eighties and in poor health (Louis and I are in our nineties), these songs bring me to tears remembering her with more understanding now than when we were growing up . . . These words speak for me now, as they spoke for her in her suffering shortened life.  (Mama, please forgive us.  We will be with you and Dear Pop, Cecelia, Josephine, Charley, Albert, Joe and Art very soon)    FG

 P.S.  I doubt if any of you remember when she was a super pianist, sang many popular songs and hymns and many jolly fun songs . . . she could whistle all of these tunes and could whistle many authentic bird songs.  She was a beautiful seamstress. I will never forget the beautiful First Communion dress and the prettiest veil and wild rosebud wreath that she made for me and how she taught me to say the rosary and read the new White Prayer Book that was a gift along with a decorated candle. 

            Also, some of you will remember that she knitted all our long “hip high” “black yarn” stockings that we all wore in the winter time over our “long handles underwear?????”  Mary will remember ruining a brand new pair of these stockings and tried to keep it a secret from Mom?

            None of you will remember that she was the bookkeeper and secretary to the school board . . . she was the accompanist for the “Songbird” school teacher, Mrs. Pinkerton.

She was a strong civic club member and was very knowledgeable at all times about the local and national governments . . . she was a subscriber to a government bulletin (even in later years that some of you might recall?) . . . she loved to give talks on these subjects at Grange, Civic club meetings and with anyone that she could agree or argue with.

            If we came home with a good report card, she might give us a long lecture on “There are many other things that are more important than grades”.  If we listened we learned how to become a better citizen or a “better Christian”.          Even though it really was a “tough life” being brought up by our mother . . . I made many resolutions to do the many things that she could do . . . such as design homes (she designed our Kiger Island home) . . . she wanted to be a church organist . . . she wanted to be a teacher . . . Like I already said, she was a super seamstress . . . she wanted one of her sons to become a priest . . . she loved nature and flowers . . . she loved music and did her best to give music to her children.  She did not care to be rich herself but she “mixed” very well with many well-to-do friends.

            I must say, at this point . . . Mom had many friends and she was much respected.  She was very well-read and could quote jokes by the hundreds.

            I followed her in many ways but I am not a joke teller.  The Aunts and Uncles used to call me “The Serious One”.  I guess that is what you would call me right now by writing these songs for you.  Anyway, I do love fun and I’ve had a lot of fun along the way in life.

            I promise no more writing like this.

            I am reminded that I want to make sure to tell you to read every word of the wonderful write-up that Rita Reichenbach (Joe’s daughter) wrote about her dad in the last Fromherz Newsletter.  Maybe someday she will write a book about his life?

            Love to All, (I am not joking), Florence G. 

Dear Connie:  I was just ready to send you a bunch of stuff (I am going through and getting rid of junk to help the family after I am gone).  I intend this for your interest . . . if youo want to use some of it in the newsletter, that is OK . . . I have sent this packet to the living Seniors and inlaw Seniors.

         We just received your writings and pictures honor our brother Joe . . . Thank You, it is very interesting . . . I told Joe that he should put a book together with Mom’s sold songs, jokes and writings, but . . .?

         Thank you for putting Rita’s tribute to her dad (Brother Joe) . . . It was wonderful.  I am going to call her on the telephone and have a chat with her about it.

         Thanks for everything you do . . . You are doing more than I ever did . . . like others have told me, you will get your reward in heaven”.  However, knowing that the family really appreciates what you do is a reward in itself.  I know what comes in is only a drop in the bucket . . .but your sacrifice and the good feeling it makes you feel is part of your reward?  I am so thankful that I never set a charge or subscription fee (like some thought I should do).  I wish I could help you more . . . But we love you,  Always,  Florence Gross

PS I am presently going through a lot of our large collections of memorabilia stuff.  I hope you don’t mind my sending some of it to you?

When you are 80

We have good news for you!

The first 80 years are the hardest.

The second 80 are a succession of birthday parties.

If you forget your name or anybody’s name, forget to keep an appointment, promise to be two or three places at the same time, or spell words wrong . . . you need only to explain that you are 80!

Everybody wants to carry your baggage and to help you up the stairs.

If you spill your soup, your shoes don’t match, or if you carry a letter around a week before mailing it . . . that’s all right – you are 80!

 At 80, you can relax with no misgivings.  You have a perfect alibi

For everything.  Nobody expects much of you.

If you act silly, it’s your second childhood.

Everybody is looking for symptoms of softening of the brain!

It is a great deal better than being 65 or 70!

At that time, they expect you to move to a little house in Florida and become a disoriented, grumbling, limping “has been.”

BUT if you survive until you are 80, they are surprised that you are alive – surprised that you can walk – surprised that you reveal lucid moments!

At 70 people are mad at you for everything!

At 80 they forgive you for anything!

If you ask us . . . life begins at 80.  LUCKY YOU!!

When you become 80 . . . you will understand all that are 80!

 Dear Ones:  When you become 80 . . . you will understand all that are 80 or older.  Lucky for Louis and I we are 90 and older . . . we should be able to get-away with anything stupid, silly, and forgetting names and even faces of our long-time friends.  And, please “forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those that trespass against us”.  Now I hope you will forgive me if you think I am giving a sermon for anyone, or think I am silly for sending this “stuff” to you.  FG

PS Now you can see what I mean:  That black line above was caused because I didn’t have my machine ready for printing????? And I wasn’t too sure how to spell trespasses . . . my machine didn’t tell me that it was spelled wrong so I had to look it up in my dictionary . . . and since my eyes are so punk it took a lot of extra time.  (As if I had all the time in the world?)  I don’t know if I will find some more stuff to send to you . . . but don’t be too surprised if I do.  Just send me some of your “cast off stuff” and maybe I will “catch on”????????? FG

Twas the Day before Christmas

Copied for Christmas 1978

 Twas the day before Christmas and all through the school

The pupils were restless and broke every rule.

A spirit of mischief pervaded the air

And the master at last stamped his foot in despair.

He rapped on his desk and he said, “Girls and Boys

Come to order at once, I won’t have such noise.

Attend to your lessons and understand clearly

The next one that speaks shall be punished severely.”

Appalled by this threat, for a time no one spoke

And then with a chuckle suppressed by a choke

“Please Sir, “ Said the voice of the tinniest scholar

“Tomorrow’s Christmas and I’ve just got to holler.”

The pupils looked scared and the master turned black

And he glanced at the birch rod that hung on his back

But as he arose and was turning around

Down the chimney St. Nicholas came with a bound.

He was dressed all in fur from his head to his foot

And his clothes were all covered with ashes and soot.

“Merry Christmas, my children” he said with a wink

Then he turned to the Master and what do you think?

He looked at him queerly, My Dear Sir,” he said

“You may go to your home and I’ll stay here instead.

Take you coat from the peg and your hat from the shelf

And the rest of the day I’ll teach school myself.

The Master departed.  St. Nicholas took his seat at the desk

He opened a book.  “Hoot, Toot,” he exclaimed.  “What nonsense

Is this?  I’ll teach you some lessons

Worth learning, I wish.  Nothing today in this school

Shall be taught, but with the spirit of

Christmas be fraught.

Put away your books and just listen to me.”

The children right gladly obeyed his decree

And attentively sat while St. Nicholas Lore.

The Botany class he found easy to please

By a simple analysis of Christmas trees.

The red holly berry and the white mistletoe

He gave a description and told how they grow

Their features, their habits, their culture and use

And their relative merits to hemlock and spruce.

The astronomy class he told of a star

That appeared long years since in a country afar.

The history class learned that a long time ago in a land far away

There dawned on this earth the first Christmas Day.

The class was well pleased to discover that they had no long dates to remember

They need only learn one, the 25^th of December,

Then St. Nicholas said, “Children Dear, if you please

We will now sing some Carols, some catches and glees.”

The geography class this queer teacher told

Of his far away home at the North Pole so cold.

He described it and the obliging old chap

Turned around to the blackboard and drew them a map

To show them the route which he traveled each year

With his miniature sleight and 8 tiny reindeer.

The classes in science were taught then to know

The wonderful value of ice, frost and snow.

St Nicholas chuckled while wisely elating

On the process of snowballing, coasting and skating.

The geometry pupils he sent to the board

And with a diagram made with a crayon and cord

Were taught to inscribe with an accurate eye

The component triangles in a circle of pie.

A lecture on natural history then the teacher announced as he layed down his pen.

The pupils all listened delighted to hear

Descriptions and tales of the noble reindeer

Ornithology followed with well chosen words

Which made clear to them all the principal birds.

The handsomest birds and the birds of most use

Without doubt are the turkey, the duck and the goose.

Psychology next, and the children learned why

It’s not best to eat too much candy or pie.

Last of all came a class of industrial arts

With its numerous diagrams, sketches and charts.

St. Nick to the children who ‘round him were flocking

Demonstrated the best way to hang up a stocking.

Now lessons are over this queer teacher said, scurry home, eat

Your supper and hop into bed.  For until you are wrapped in slumber profound, I cannot start out on my annual round.  He sprang to his sleigh and he reached for his whip and the children ran home with a hop and a skip, but they heard him exclaim as he drove out of sight, MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL!  I’LL SEE YOU TONIGHT!

"Roy is having serious health problems right now and, both, he and Rita Jo would appreciate any and all the prayers The Fromherz Family can give 'from the heart'.  In fact, our whole family...ALL OF US!!! can use all the Love and Prayers we can give for one another (just a little 'squeak-of-a-prayer' is all it takes, to get God's attention, and He Does Love Our Attention!  Thank's, Connie!   Love, Rita Jo

James W. Fromherz

Thursday, November 24, 2005

A funeral Mass will be at 11 a.m. Monday, Nov. 28, 2005, in St. Paul Catholic Church in St. Paul for James W. Fromherz, who died Nov. 22 at age 81. Recitation of the rosary will be at 5 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 27, also in the church.

Mr. Fromherz was born May 22, 1924, in Corvallis. During World War II, he served in the Navy. He moved to St. Paul in 1969, and was a welder and pipe fitter for A.J. Zinda and Harder companies in Portland. In 1947, he married J. Mary Weaver.

Survivors include his wife; daughters, Connie Gale, Shirley Faber and Susan Lutz; sons, James, Thomas, Wayne and Dennis; brother, Walter; sisters, Florence Gross and Mary Gerding; 28 grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren.

Arrangements by Simon-Woodburn.

 SHAPE  \* MERGEFORMAT

Prayers of the Faithful

Lord Jesus, even in your suffering you showed us how to love, give us strength to bear our troubles with loving confidence in the Father.  Let us pray to the Lord.

Jesus you promised to be with all who gather in your name.  Make us aware of your presence among us and fill us with your grace, mercy and peace, so that we may live in truth and Love.  Let us pray to the Lord.

Christ Jesus, consoler of those who mourn, you dried the tears of the family of Lazarus, comfort those who mourn for Jim.  Let us pray to the Lord.

Jesus, source of forgiveness and salvation for all, where there is darkness, fear or doubt, let your light bring comfort and calm.  And, by the prayers of the ever-virgin Mary, may Jim and our families, relatives and friends who have gone from this world come to share eternal happiness with all your saints.  Let us pray to the Lord.

Celebrations of Dad’s Life . . .

Welcome!  It is wonderful to see all of you here to share in the celebration of Dad’s Life.  I want to Thank all of you for coming.  My name is Connie, and I am Jim’s daughter.  I come to you unprepared to make this talk.   We found just about an hour ago that my cousin Bill is stuck in traffic on Hwy 84 by Hood River and wouldn’t make it on time.  Our family got together to brainstorm what we wanted to share about Dad, and as Dad was rounding the Fromherz corner on his way to this celebration, I volunteered to do the honors . . .

In the front of the remembrance handout that you received coming in, just about says it all . . . God saw you getting tired when a cure was not to be.  So he closed His arms around you and whispered “come to me.”  You didn’t deserve what you went through And so He gave you rest.  God’s garden must be beautiful.  He only takes the best.  And when I saw you sleeping So peaceful & free from pain, I could not wish you back To suffer that again. 

The past two years Dad suffered a lot.  He suffered alone and he suffered in silence.  He always put up a good front.   If you knew him really well you knew how much he was suffering.  He always kept a stiff upper lip no matter what.  His message was “that there was hope,” even when there wasn’t any hope left.

Loving Is . . .

Love is the coin with which we buy happiness in this life and heaven in the next.  But it is a coin with two sides.  The reverse side is sacrifice, which is another word for the giving of ourselves . . . Gilbert Hay, M.S.SS.T.

Dad liked to sing, especially Honey Bee, and Me and My Teddy Bear.  He also liked to sing in church and most of you have witnessed him belting out songs during Mass.  . .  And with his signature, resounding ‘Amen’ !

He loved to tell stories and had a great sense of humor.  He liked to tease and ‘pull your leg” with his stories.  I am sure you all have a story or two to share.

Dad was very creative and like to use his hands . . . many of us have his ‘gooney birds’ that he made from old shovels . . . Now, I have been accused of having 5 of these birds, but in actuality I only have 3!  Dad would make his birds and put them in the garden . . . and then they would disappear . . . (mom always knew who had them as she was in on it!) . . . and he would try to figure out who had them.  He also made toys and crosses all fashioned out of some metal and welding.  He contributed to community by rebuilding the crosses on this church.  He also built the BBQ pits for the Knights of Columbus Chicken BBQ.  He repaired the swings at the school.  He was brilliant in working with his hands and working with his hands in fashioning metal. 

He loved Family and would always take in others as the need arose.    One time we were at Uncle Joe’s in Silverton and we all got in the car to go home.  Dad would have us count off, he’d say “sound off”. . . I was # 1, Shirley #2, Jimmy #3 and so on, we got down to #6 and nothing . . . so started over.  It was on the third count off that we discovered that we had left #6 (Buzz) behind.  We went back and found Buzz asleep on the couch!  Over the years we had several cousins come and stay until things worked out to return back home. 

Dad LOVED to play cards, Pitch, Pinochile, and he had a saying “Win if you can, Lose if you must, BUT ALWAYS CHEAT!”

He liked to dry bananas and give them away.  One of his Great-Grandaughters fondly refers to him as her “Banana Grandpa”! 

In his retirement years he delivered RVs and did a lot of traveling. . . and he liked to take a ‘Buddy” with him.  Several of us have stories to tell about his travels or when he would show up unannounced on our doorstep for a visit.

Dad contributed to community with his willingness to participate in experimental treatment studies for his cancer after all other treatments had failed.  At the time, this new treatment was not an approved cancer treatment, and now is accepted cancer treatment. 

Dad is survived by his eldest sister Florence who has written something to share. 

This is just a small sketch of how he touched so many lives, and you all have your stories to share, I would like to open this up at this time for you to share your celebrations of Dad with us . . .

Dad’s sister Florence brought this written remembrance . . . A few words about my brother Jimmie . . .

We were a family of nine children . . . 6 boys and 3 girls, all born in Corvallis, Oregon . . . lived most of our lives at Lebanon, Oregon.  Our oldest sister (deaf) Josephine passed away at 61 in 1972.  Our parents, Adolf and Lucy Fromherz passed away and left 8 of to live long lives into our 80s.  (I am the oldest at 92)

Jimmie was the youngest of the 6 brothers and lived to 82 years.  He was a strong man but lived with cancer for the past 13 years.  He suffered much.  But he had a positive attitude and kept a busy life doing many things for the good of his family, relatives and friends.

Since our mother lived in very poor health, I was “nanny” to all my brothers and sister for many years of our growing up. . . Jimmie was my special buddy.  He claimed for many years that “I was the oldest, he was the youngest, the prettiest and the best.”

I remember the day he was born in the beautiful month of May 1924.  Josephine was the oldest at that time and was taking care of baby Arthur.  I think maybe I was a bit jealous of her and figured that the next baby (Jimmie) would be my baby to give care and love.  That was as I had dreamed . . . Jimmie was “mine”.  Our mother’s health was so poor that I had to leave school and was “nanny” to the entire family.  (Josephine was in the deaf school in Salem . . . the reason I was considered the oldest.

So you can see that losing Jimmie is like losing one of my own children.  There are only 3 of us left . . . Mary Gerding of Corvallis, Walter at Medford and myself, Florence Gross of Mt. Angel.   Florence Gross

Christmas in Heaven

I’m wondering what Christmas in Heaven is like As I grieve alone and pray, Longing for one who has gone before To spend Christmas in Heaven today.

And so in my dreams, I wonder far From the scenes and sounds of earth ‘Till I catch the strains of the Heavenly choir As they sing of the Christ Child’s birth.

The Angels and Saints I vision there As they join in the festal gay, And there ‘mid the throng is my loved one Spending Christmas in Heaven today.

There’s joy in the faith that teaches, When our live’s work here is done, Of a place in heaven awaiting, And the crown we worked for is won.

In our grief may we learn well the lesson So to work and suffer and pray, As to merit the joys of our loved one And to spend Christmas together some day.

Memories of my Dad Adolf . . .

This is narrated in Jim’s perception of events as he remembers them. I am sure that the other Seniors can share their perceptions of the same incidents and they would all be a little different. Thanks, Dad for sharing your memories of what life was like with Grandpa Pop who I never had the privilege to know. Your assignment for the next Newsletter, Dad, is to send me another tape on your Memories of your mother, my Grandmother Lucy. Connie J

December 1, 2001

Hi Connie

I tried to think about what you want me to gather up and talk about my dad Adolf…as I think back you pretineer have to go back to my childhood and how we were raised. And get into the everyday practice that my Dad, Adolf, had. As I get older and I realize what he did and how he did it was amazing. To me the knowledge that he seemed to have about just about anything that he wanted to do. He knew how to make hominy. He knew how to cure pork. He knew how to butcher. He knew how to farm. He knew how to get the information the he needed to do farming. He used to talk about Professor Bouquet at Oregon State College that he had talked to about his truck gardening out on the Island. And then as I look at him, he was a straight man, he was tall but he carried himself very well. The people around Lebanon…and when he was in Lebanon, even if he had a brand new pair of overalls on and a clean pair of shoes and a hat, they said that he was the best dressed man in Lebanon. He held himself square and he looked dignified. He looked like he was Adolf . . . and mom was always jealous because she wasn’t considered the best dressed woman in Lebanon, and she thought since he was the best dressed man that she should be the best dressed woman in Lebanon, which was difficult to apprehend, but that’s the way it was. And I heard my many Aunts . . . Aunt Winnie and Aunt Dort, all of them came over when us children were small and mom was on her high-horse a quite a bit of the time, why they said Adolf was the most patient man they have ever seen in their whole lives…he would sit there and listen and go on about his business and do the things that he needed to do to keep life and limb together. A lot of times during the depression when things were pretty short, you know why, he was supposed to license the old model T every year the first of January you had a new license come. Well, he would wait until March or April or sometime in the springtime…and finally the old police chief of Lebanon would say " Hey Adolf, better put a license on that old rig of yours or I’ll have to hang a ticket on it". So, he’d dig up enough cream money or something to put a license on the that old Model T, even if it was $5 or $10 or whatever it was but money was hard to come by. During the depression when things were so slow, he left the farm on Kiger’s Island…he had good land and good soil and he was a good farmer. He talked one year when it froze he had potatoes and in the days when money was money, he sold those potatoes for $10 a sack after he kept them in the barn, built a fire to keep them from freezing and in the spring time when he went to sell taters He got $10 a sack which was a lot of money. He knew how to take care of them. Charlie said the first job he ever had was holding the lantern for dad to go out with the team and wagon. And when he knew it was going to freeze he went out brought those taters in the barn and Charlie held the lantern for him. And that must have been…he was pretty young. Dad would take the old wagon out there and he would work all night if he had to save his crop. And he was a solid…he was a solid person. Of course mom she had lots of ideas and she drove him pretty hard…and she made life not miserable for him but made life difficult because the island was out there in the middle of the Willamette River and high water would come up and he built the house . . . he built it himself, and he built it up on piling or stilts or something they said it was up off the ground enough that the river would run under it in the winter when the high water would come and here mom sat in the house with all of us little kids and a kerosene lamp and got to thinking of what the heck would happen if they had a fire. So she got spooked and she didn’t want to stay out there on the island with high water running under the house. And boat getting around the barn it’s just like being out in the middle of that damned old muddy river. And I don’t really blame her for that. He bought a house over on the mainland and he was going to move the family over there during the high water times so mom would be happy. I think it was really the people on the island that were influencing her little darlin’s that made her insist that they sell out and move up to the hill place…Rock Hill that we went to and then he could never farm that rock hill soil…the soil was white. Like he said in the morning you’d go out and it was too wet to plow and then went to lunch…and come out after lunch and it was too dry to plow. It was awful hard. It was an old white gumbo, I guess. And he never really got his heart in farming again after he left the island. And, then of course they went over and bought that place in Lebanon and it was bought in the wintertime. The guy had worked the ground up to where you couldn’t tell that there was a quite a bit of gravel. The land wasn’t really very good. Kind of a sand…oh maybe out of 80 acres there might have been 20 good acres of farming ground he could work but He never really settled into farming. He had the equipment and he had the horses. And he had things to do but he made up his mind he could go to work in the paper mill which was in town and that was a job that paid pretty good money. Crown Zellarback ran that mill in Lebanon for all those years during the depression and a lot of good people worked there. They didn’t need him but he made up his mind and so every morning at 7:30 he was down there ready to go to work and letting them know that he was wanting a job and he was there. And, after about 2 weeks, they put him on. They decided that he was going to insist on being here, and we need a man so they put him on. And thence he went to work in the mill. Then Charlie and mom and all the rest of us tried to run the farm. Albert was the main stay of the farm. Albert was never a kid. He worked when he was a young man and of course Mom was schooling him to be a priest. Mom had it all scoped out. There were 6 boys and all of us were going to be professionals. She was going to have a doctor, a lawyer, and a priest and nobody was going to carry a lunch pail. Nobody was going to be a "Daygo", which means you go work by the day with a lunch bucket. But of course some of her plans fell through and that was in her diary when she wrote . . . we were all pegged to be important people. And, the Lord had kind of promised her that if she raised those boys that they would be important people. She told me that I was going to be a great thinker. I’ve always been reminded of that, you know, and I did a quite a bit of thinking. I found out later in life that I think she spelled it with a ‘s’ . . . I was really a sinker! When I sunk the company truck out in the ocean, I was a confirmed sinker! But, if you get back to ole’ Adolf, he come over, we had a one room schoolhouse when I was a kid . . . all 8 grades were in there. Of course I was pretty small at the time, so I’d sit up pretty close to the front. The small desks were up front and they got progressively bigger as they went back. They were those old school-type desks. They way they run a one-room school house each grade would come up and sit in the front seats and recite and the teacher would ask them all kinds of questions and everybody else back there was supposed to be studying their own stuff. When the 6^th grade geography class got up there and started talking about all the things in the world and they had brand new books and stuff . . . I didn’t pay much attention to what I was supposed to learn. I was listening to that 6^th grade. I learned more from the older class than I did in my own. I never was too good at my own stuff. The teacher always said that I came to class poorly prepared. But, I think I got most of my education just listening to the older kids getting up there and reciting and showing the teacher what they knew. But Adolf came over one time, my dad, you know, the teacher wanted a curtain put up in the school house so when they put on the Christmas play they would have something that would close off so they could get ready. My ole dad came down there with a brace and bit and a bunch of heavy wire. He had a brand new pair of gum boots . . . white ones, and a pair of brand new overalls, and he went about his work while we were in class. And we were proud of him. He knew what he was doing, He knew how to do it . . . and in about an hour he had that curtain rod up. He bored a hole in the side of the building, he put a big washer on the outside, then he stretched the wire across and tightened it . . . it was tighter than a G string . . . Then he went home and he hung that curtain. And, we were proud of him. But that old 8 grades and us kids that was going to school there was quite an experience when you get down to it . . . and then you went to high school, and of course that was a different ball game altogether, and only lasted a couple of years at that. But, ole Adolf, he always wore those split leather JC Penney shoes. He’d go down and get a new pair once a year. And, unless he was wearing boots he wore those kind of shoes. And, he’d wear a clean pair of overalls. Of course he had a nice suit and stuff, and like I say Mom was a little jealous because no matter what he had on he was pretty well dressed. And, He looked good. He had a big black hat to take up collection at church . . . And, he was just a good steady man. He’s listen and he’d sit there and mom could ding at him for quite a while, you know, and pretty soon he’s say "are you through?" or something like that but they never caused any real ruckus, you know. But, we were proud of him. He was good man, and of course when the war started and mom and dad had a disagreement kind of, but they moved over to Newport. Albert was going to run the farm so they went over and bought a little house in Newport. And he went to work for Grant Abbott, an old contractor. He was Grant’s old right-hand man and he did pretty good. He was over there then when that kind of work ran out, he went over to the fish plant and pulled livers out of the old fish for New England Fish Company for awhile. Mom went back to the farm with Albert. When I went up to the shipyards in 1941 and I was making more money than any of them . . . Adolf, my dad, my brothers, any of them . . . I made more money than they did. My sister Florence & Louie, they were school teachers and they couldn't understand how I could be making more money than they did teaching school and I tried to tell them I didn’t have the education to know what to do with it so I needed more money than they did. ‘Cause they went to school long enough to learn how to manage their money . . . That didn’t sell very good either! Then he went up to the shipyard and worked and he was Adolf . . . and of course during the war Adolf Hitler was a scoundrel and a bum. My brother Adolf changed his name to Joe . . . He couldn’t stand to be called Adolf and they would pick on him. . But my dad was still Adolf . . . and it was A – D – O – L – F . . . there’s no PH in there…nothing, no middle name, but it was Adolf. Mom said that if you went anywhere from Eugene to Salem, and anybody seen that old Model T running around they would say "There’s old Adolf". Everybody knew him. He just fit in. He was a pretty good man and we sure loved him and wish we would have been able to be a little closer. In my younger years I didn’t have much time for anybody. But, now that I think back on it He sure did a fine job. He was 15 years old when he came over from Germany. And he made the circuit of logging up in Minneapolis, Wisconsin, then he went out to Washington. He invented some skids and stuff up in Aberdeen Chehalis Company. He made some skids to get some logs out a little easier and he got pretty good patents on it. Then he came down and was farming around Corvallis when he met mom. And, when he was farming, he made some equipment. He made a pulverizer that we tried to use when I got a little older. It was a good idea. If he had lived long enough to see a rototiller I believe he’d be in heaven. Because he was always trying to figure out how to work that ground a little better, and make a little better seed bed for his gardening. He made this pulverizer and it was about 4 or 5 rows of little discs about 6 inches in diameter and about 2 inches apart and they overlapped each other. They’d get clods in them and they’d plug up and make a mess. I never could use it. Then they had a harrow in front of it and a drag in the back to level the ground out. And he had a patent on it. It never sold very good. And he had a patent on a bunch of gopher traps. He made some traps out of a piece of 2x6 with a strong spring with a spear on it with a hook that was supposed to go thru the hide of a gopher and hook him and he couldn’t get loose. He had about 50 of those made. He thought they were going to revolutionize the gopher business. They just sat around out in the garage. We used a few of them once in a while . . . never had much luck with them. But he always had ideas. He made a rig to pick gooseberries. It was a finger clamp. Gooseberries, I don’t know if you’ve ever seen them or not, but they are stickery as all heck, and when you’d pick them they’d make a mess. But he had this thing you could rake those gooseberries right off into a pan. It’s like Walter. Walter does some inventing and he got it from ole dad. Dad was an inventor. He was always trying to figure out a better way to do it. And, he knew how to do . . . how he knew so much, and he was a head logger.

Yeah, and ole Adolf worked in the shipyard as a laborer. He went into 296 and then he went to school to be a burner. But he realized that his name and reputation was such that if he advanced himself he knew more that most of the people that he was working for and with. He was content to be a sweeper, a janitor in the shipyard and stayed right there during the war and never made any waves. And, he just fit in . . . He was a good man. Of course he got the stigma of being Adolf. But then after the war he went down and helped Albert on the farm a little bit. He had an accident policy that he knew about. He was driving the tractor. . . and it was that old John Deere that had a clutch that you pull with the big arm that came down. Albert had tightened it up because it was slipping. Dad was driving it and he wasn’t used to it. He didn’t realize that Albert had tightened it up, and he was driving, and he run into the side of the barn because he couldn’t pull that thing hard enough to stop. And so he got bunged up a little bit. And of course he had this accident policy. And it paid off pretty good. He milked it for quite awhile. He even had to learn to limp when the inspector came around. I’ve always had a lot of respect for these accident policies. They used to tell the story out on the job about the salesman that went to sell this accident to this old farmer. And he said "Farmers don’t have no accidents. I don’t need no policy like that". Well, I did my homework…a couple of years ago you were in the hospital for 3 or 4 days because the bull got you out in the corral. The Farmer said "That was no accident that bull did that on purpose." So that’s the same way with dad and his old accident policy. Then he went back over to Florence’s and spent the rest of his days up there helping Florence and Louie, and they provided pretty good for him. I wish I had taken more time to be with him. And, I was with him probably more than any of the boys because I went over to Newport with him when I got sick and tired of the old Lebanon High School . I went to High School a little bit over in Newport. Lebanon was the Warriors. That was our nickname…and Newport called me Geronimo because I came from Lebanon. I fit in pretty good. Newport was a pretty good school. I learned quite a bit over there but I got fascinated with the business that said I could go up and work in the shipyard so I baled out and I hate to admit it to my family, but I was a high-school drop out. When I got out of the Navy I was going to go back to the high school in Lebanon and I went up to the school house and Gladys Essig was one of our neighbor girls, and a pretty nice girl. Boyd was her brother and we were buddies. She was the Secretary for the principal over at the high school. I told her I intended to maybe go back to school. I was out in the Navy for 3 years. She said, "You must have went to some schools in the Navy", and I replied, "Yeah, I did Radar School in the Navy". She said, why don’t you go over to Corvallis and take the entrance examination and if you can pass it you can go to college." So I went over, I took it and I passed it. And so I went to College. I didn’t have to tell anybody that I didn’t have a high school diploma. I went a year to College. That sold pretty good. I never had any trouble after that. But dad went over to Florence and Louis and Florence said that he was always busy doing stuff. He lived to 1950 . . . He died in 1950. It’s quite a tribute. And, mom said that she blamed the fact that he made good and went back to his religion and kept his religion up. He died a good Christian man from the prayers of his mother. If you think about it, his mother stayed over in Germany and she had two girls, Adolf’s sisters who lived in Leavenworth, Kansas. He had a brother Andrew who lived in Okanagan, Washington. And then Adolf. She stayed home and let those kids go over to the new world. It must have been an awful strain on her to see her family gone and never see them again. And, like mom said, she prayed for them and probably saved them. And now I’m thinking about when they were married they lived up at Alsea, when they were first married. He had a homestead up on the Alsea River. He was logging. Alpine was the name of the town on the Alsea River. They traded it for a farm in Kansas. Mom used to tell about going back to Kansas. She had Josephine . . . Josephine was born . . . and this guy was supposed to be kind of a scoundrel trading them the farm sight unseen. He must have traded it for that Alsea property. They went back there and got dusted out in a year. Adolf got chill blanes and I guess the wind blew. He said the wind didn’t blow hard, but it was steady…it would hold a bull up against the side of the barn for 3 days. Of course, mom didn’t have any green trees to look at so they got homesick. They lasted a year back there in Kansas and came back. And then after doing that, now, he came home in a few years he had money enough . . . he must have had some money rat holed away somewhere, and he must have been a hell of a manager because Mary says he loaned money to Henry Gerding to start his Grocery business. And he had money enough to go out and buy that place out there in Kiger’s Island and build a house. And, it was a dandy house too! It had running water and plumbing. Big water tank up on top and big force pump down below that you pumped by hand, it had all the facilities of the modern house. He built it, or had it built. He knew how to get people to do stuff. He’d get people to work on the farm. He’d put Florence out there. Florence was a raw boned girl that could take a dog gone hoe. When she was 12 years old she could out hoe 20 men, you know. So he’d get some fellas out there to hoe strawberries and he’d set her out there kind of like a pacemaker and they’d be so darned ashamed of themselves seeing that little girl out there doing so much work, they worked pretty hard for him. But, he knew how to do that kind of stuff. When they came back from Kansas and they were able in a few years to have that ranch out there on the island and had all kinds of money I guess. Cause they loaned money to Henry. And then they sold out when high water come up and mom’s little darlin’s was getting influenced by some pretty tough people on the island, I guess. But, how he managed to have money enough to do that after going back there to Kansas on that expedition. I’ve tried to manage some of my own stuff, and boy, you run out pretty quick. He seemed to always have it . . . He had a rat hole somewhere. And there must have been from his logging days, maybe he had a little sock here and a little sock there. How he managed at the time . . . at the time I wasn’t able to ask those questions because I wasn’t interested. I want to know where they were in Kansas and I can’t find out. Nobody knows. Charlie seemed to think it was in Western Kansas. I always thought it was back around Leavenworth where his sisters were. But it must not have been. But you get to thinking about those things and you think how dumb you were not to ask those questions that you wonder about now because it must have been quite an experience for them to do that. I don’t think he had but a 3^rd grade education. He knew more accidentally than most people know on purpose. And, We loved him. He was a great father I think he did a heck of a job. He kept things together until we were big enough to go out and make our own messes. I am sorry that I didn’t really know him a little better and treat him a little better. But that’s the way it was . . . and we’re here today . . . We have to thank God that Adolf and Lucy got together . . . and they did a good job. I would really rather talk about mom that I would Adolf. I will tell you that he was a fine man and everybody respected him. And, he worked hard. And I’ll tell you another thing. When they were over at Corvallis and running the farm out on the island, Father Lapsik was the priest in Corvallis. Adolf had a pretty good reputation of being a hard worker. Father was giving a pretty good sermon one Sunday and Father was a big Dutchman, and Father said "I can work just as hard as Adolf too". Mom spoke out later and said "When you two get through, I’ll cook the dinner". She knew that Father wasn’t toughened up enough to out work her Adolf. She made the statement that she’d cook dinner when they got thru working for a day. I think it was pretty good. She was pretty sharp. And all these things they come back to roost. And, I might magnify some of them like my Navy stories. But basically, he was a swell person. He had that old Model T. He didn’t have money enough to buy antifreeze I guess, or he didn’t know about it or something. It would freeze up and break the radiator. He didn’t get it fixed, so he’d put horse manure in the radiator. And that would stop the leaks. If it got hot again and boiled and he took the lid off, My God it made a mess. And Florence was always trying to get Annie Blacklaw to come over…she had an old 30 Model A coupe. She was Catholic. She lived down the road. Florence conned her into coming by and picking her up and taking her to church so she wouldn’t have to go to church with us folks in that old Model T. She did a pretty good job. We all got in there and we had a good time. That’s the way we were raised up and we’re proud of it. I hope I gave you enough information to put something down about a good man that came over and must have had a lot of obstacles. 

-----Original Message-----
From: Fromherz Family [mailto:rkmfromkofc@juno.com]
Sent: Friday, January 20, 2006 2:35 PM
Subject: Fw: Polar icebreaking operation to continue

Kevin Fromherz's Coast Guard Ice Breaker is under way.

@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

Polar icebreaking operation to continue

By Patricia Kime <mailto:pkime@navytimes.com?

Times staff writer

Subject = Question from NavyTimes.com reader

 There will be an Operation Deep Freeze '06 for the Coast Guard after all.

 On Thursday, the National Science Foundation, the agency that controls funding for the U.S. icebreaking program, called on the Coast Guard to send its only operating heavy icebreaker, the Polar Star, to Antarctica. The 399-foot ship is scheduled to leave its homeport of Seattle on Friday for the 30-day transit south.  The NSF had hired a Russian icebreaker for the task this year of clearing a channel to the U.S.-run McMurdo research station, leaving the Polar Star in standby if assistance was needed.

 The Russian icebreaker Krasin opened the channel to McMurdo, but earlier this week developed mechanical problems and broke a propeller. While the Krasin is operable and currently is grooming the channel, the Polar Star has been dispatched in case further assistance is needed, Public Affairs Specialist First Class Amy Thomas said. The Coast Guard has participated in Antarctic icebreaking operations since 1955. It operates three polar icebreakers, the sister ships Polar Star and Polar Sea, and the 420-foot icebreaker Healy, a vessel geared primarily toward Arctic operations and research.  The Coast Guard's polar icebreaking program has been subject to funding disputes and controversy in the past five years; the Polar Star and Polar Sea are reaching the end of their service lives and need to be refurbished or replaced.  Some administration and congressional officials have questioned whether the vessels, which are seen by many as scientific research aids, should be Coast Guard assets.  A new report out by the National Academy of Sciences refutes that charge, saying icebreaker operations are integral to national security.  

 From: Fromherz, Judy L MAJ HQDA DCS G-8 [mailto:Judy.Fromherz@hqda.army.mil]
Sent: Wednesday, February 01, 2006 2:24 PM
Subject: RE: Thanks for your Prayers (UNCLASSIFIED)

Classification: UNCLASSIFIED , Caveats: NONE

Hello, Hello!  How are you all doing.  Mom, Marty & Brian had a great visit and we definitely did a whirlwind tour of DC!  Mom did awesome....I am so proud of her!  I got her an electric scooter for inside the Pentagon, but she walked everywhere else!  I am amazed that she didn't collapse from exhaustion at the end of each day!  We had a great time and the ceremony was very nice!  I am attaching a couple of photos for you. 

 Got to get back to work so that I can go home sometime tonight!  Taz says hi!

 Judy