Tuesday, January 7, 2020

The Loss Of A Classmate

The Brookings Register today, Jan. 7, 2020, listed the obituary of classmate Doug Voss (https://brookingsregister.com/article/douglas-voss-colorado-springs-colorado).  Like so many members of our class, he accomplished many amazing feats in his life.

I did not realize that he was married while still in high school.  It was a wonderful marriage, as it lasted over 50 years and produced some fine children.  Some of us here were able to talk to him a couple of years ago when he was in town for the funeral of his brother Leroy. He seemed to be in good spirits, as he was recovering from some health problems.  Doug's son Shane was a student here through 8th grade, after which they moved to Colorado. 

My most vivid memories of Doug are from 7th grade.  He was a really good runner in the half-mile for us.  There was a boy from Watertown that was perhaps Doug's equal.  If Doug was not able to defeat him, he would always be a close second.  Doug's efforts always impressed Mr. Dolan.  After 7th grade, Doug developed other interests, and chose not to participate in track and field.  While his decision may have hurt the track and field team, it certainly paid off for him in his career after high school.  He shouldered many responsibilities while taking great pride in his career in construction management. 

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family at this difficult time.