Dan Burkhart

One of the assignments in Mr. Buford's class was to pick a classmate, even if you didn't know them, to write about and I chose Chuck Waddell who was a mystery to me, shy, his head tucked down to avoid encounters, which I suspected might have been from the jabs of some kids who ridiculed his dad, on the janitorial staff, adolescent misbehavior that was often unchallenged. Mr. Buford selected what I wrote to read in class while not divulging names of the subject or the writer. Chuck knew who wrote about him and what I wrote was about him. He blushed during the entire episode but nodded to me as we left class. I will always regret I did not become a friend to Chuck Waddell -- separated by different cliques and interests I suspect -- who seems to have had a good life, one where he was valued and will be missed.

Jinny Kamuf (Johnson)

What a wonderful story, Dan. Thanks for sharing. 

Terry Braun

Tremendous post Dan.  Chuck and I began Kensington Elementary together and although he was always shy, he was a very good kid.  I moved to California my sophomore and junior years of high school and when I returned for my senior year I did not see Chuck much, just occassionally around the hallways, still shy.  He was a good person and it looks like he raised a great family.  The Class of 66 is going to miss you Chuck, RIP.

Sandy Hanson

I didn't know you very well at RRHS, Dan (just in Monsieur Masse's french class),  but this is a lovely tribute that you wrote to Chuck - both then and now. 

Peggy Toman (Siegle)

Thank you for that meaningful post, Dan.

Chuck Inglefield

I believe that he was the only other Chuck in our class. That was the only common thread that we had. Having read the nice tributes that are written here, I wish I had made a stronger effort to befriend him.  Actually Dan, after reading your nice tribute, I wish I had been better friends with you!