Russellville alumni Dampf graduated 79 years ago

Russellville alumni Warren Dampf, Class of 1938, was the oldest alumni to attend the recent alumni banquet. He was joined by Class of 1967 alumni Donn Schmoeger and Wilfred Plochberger. (submitted photo)
Russellville alumni Warren Dampf, Class of 1938, was the oldest alumni to attend the recent alumni banquet. He was joined by Class of 1967 alumni Donn Schmoeger and Wilfred Plochberger. (submitted photo)

RUSSELLVILLE, Mo. - The Russellville Alumni Banquet, hosted by the Russellville School Foundation, welcomed 143 alumni June 3 at the Russellville Middle School gymnasium.

Prior to the event, the Class of 1962, met in the library.

Foundation Secretary/Treasurer Kathy Koestner thanked the sponsors and recognized veterans. Following the Pledge of Allegiance, Gary Jobe offered a prayer.

The fried chicken and ham meal was prepared by Reinhardt Circle and Russellville FFA members assisted with plates and drinks.

Superintendent Perry Gorrell discussed the history of the middle school gym and thanked district patrons and the foundation for supporting the recent ballot measures.

Koestner said the foundation was organized five years ago to provide grants to teachers and support to students.

Former teachers Frances Engelbrecht, Beverly Meyer, Saundra Wiser and Charles Matheis were recognized. And special recognition was given to the classes of 1938, 1947, 1957, 1962, 1967 and 2017.

The oldest alumni present was Warren Dampf, a 1938 graduate.

Three $200 scholarships were presented to 2017 graduates Natalie Benne, Stacia Schollmeyer and Brianna Smith.

Historian Lucille Rosenmiller remembered the past alumni.

Table centerpieces provided by Longfellow's Garden Center were used as door prizes.

Lina Steenbergen closed the banquet by singing "God Be With You Till We Meet Again."