Hi Everyone! How exciting to imagine that we are considering our 65th class reunion! 1961 was a long time and many wars ago. We are hoping that many of you will be able to attend. Considering our age and the mobility difficulties, this will probably be our last big Madison West Class of 1961 Reunion. We have planned several things and if any of you have other ideas, please let us know.
Here are some details about the reunion weekend:
Registration
Please fill out the registration form and return it to the return address listed on the form. The deadline is August 3rd, 2026.
Friday Night: Lakeview Park
Friday night we are planning to be at the Lakeview Park in Middleton. It is the same spot that we were 4 years ago. 6300 Mendota Ave, Middleton. Famous Dave’s will cater the event. We will have ribs, brisket and BBQ pulled chicken, creamy coleslaw, beans, fruit and corn bread muffins. If this is too much meat and we can include a few vegetarian meals. Let me know. We can arrive about 4:00—5:00PM. We will be inside with air conditioning and lots of trails to walk in the park. Beverages provided so come early and chat with old friends. Dinner should arrive about 5:15 and it probably take a little while to get everything set up.
WHEN
Arrival: 4:00-5:00PM
Dinner: 5:15PM
WHERE
Lakeview Park, 6300 Mendota Ave, Middleton, WI 53562
Google Map
Saturday Morning: Madison West
We have scheduled a tour of West for Saturday morning at 10:00AM. You will have a chance to see the new gym, weight room, the Ragetz Family Pool, practice fields, band room, etc. Lots of changes in just the few last years. It should be a great tour!
WHEN
Tour start: 10:00AM
WHERE
Madison West, 30 Ash St, Madison, WI 53726
Google Map
Saturday Night: Otto’s Restaurant
Saturday night we are planning on dinner at Otto’s restaurant at 6405 Mineral Point Rd. It is just a blocks from Memorial High School. Back in the 1930-1950’s it was the home of Dr William Lorenz, Susie Lorenz’s grandfather. Later it was purchased and renovated by a Turkish fellow turned into a restaurant specializing Mediterranean food. Recently is was bought by several Madison fellows and it is know for it’s good food and Jazz bands. I think we will hear one of the bands. Dinner will be a lovely three course meal with promises of appetizers, main course and dessert — with a little wine included. We are hoping that Susie will attend and we can hear stories of her days in this old home. Heard a little about pony rides etc. Come about 4:30PM for a drink and we will have dinner about 5:00PM. It is wheelchair accessible (ramps) with handicapped parking in the back. We will probably be on the upstairs deck/porch. It is a beautiful and special location.
WHEN
Drinks: 4:30PM
Dinner: 5:00PM
WHERE
Otto’s Restaurant, 6405 Mineral Point Rd, Madison, WI 53705
Google Map
Sunday Morning: Community Room at Oakwood Village West
On Sunday morning at 10:30 we will gather at the Oakwood Community Room at Oakwood Village West at 6225 Mineral Point Rd in Madison. It is just a stone throw from Otto’s through dense oak and hickory woods where both Donna McDowell Beestman and Peggy now live in this huge retirement community. (Hoyt Park is being renovated this summer so we needed an alternative.) It will be a simple meal, probably sub sandwiches, chips and cookies. It is a nice way to have a last chance to say goodbye to everyone.
WHEN
10:30AM
WHERE
Oakwood Community Room, 6225 Mineral Point Rd, Madison, WI 53705
Google Map
Questions or need more information?
If you need any information on other classmates let me know. I have a pretty good database on everyone.
Peggy Ahlgren
pahlgren43@gmail.com
608-588-5006
Karen Hult Scheele
bkscheele@att.net
608-238-44308