Dee, was known to all of us who shared the Theta Chapter of Beta Theta Pi experience from September 1950 through May 1954 as “The Bat”. This was a loving reference to his late night habits at 54 West Lincoln. Dee, Bob Corey and I arrived through different avenues but found ourselves rooming together at Eckelberry’s and part of the 1950 pledge class. The chapter was a very strong group of men, some who were returned vets, mixed in with younger achievers that created an ideal environment for brotherhood and friendship. Dee took on many roles of leadership over the four years ending with the honor of Chapter President and wearer of the Dawson Badge.
Memories of the Conventions, serenades, parties, intramural football championships, bridge games at any moment, pizza on Sunday night at Anton’s in Worthington, hanging out at Reaney’s quarry, among other things, allowed for much to do over that time. Because of the Korean war many were active in the AFROTC and quickly were put on active duty after graduation. Dee went to flying school to earn his wings and complete a three year duty. His professional business career with Merrill Lynch moved he and Pat around the West in a series of successful assignments as an Officer of the Company.
Our close relationship over 50 years was a series of visits with my wife Nita and Pat and our children in many different places. We made afinal visit to Tucson in Jan. ‘07 as Dee’s health was slipping. A wonderfully warm time for the four of us to relive many happy times together. Dee will be missed by all who knew and admired him! Wooglin Forever!
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