Posted on 06/14/2004 4:54:41 PM PDT by churchillbuff
The Eureka College community mourned the passing of Ronald W. Reagan, the 40th President of the United States and honored alumnus, with a memorial service on Saturday, June 12th at 1p.m. in the afternoon.
At the memorial service, Eureka College devoted an hour to pay tribute to the man who said, "Everything that has been good in my life began at Eureka College." Starting in typical Eureka College fashion a bagpiper ushered in the start of the memorial service. Hundreds had gathered to celebrate and remember the life of Ronald Reagan.
Mr. Paul Lister, Interim President for Eureka College and head of the Ronald Reagan Fellowship Program, said fondly of Ronald Reagan, "We are gathered to say farewell to a great American, to a great American life." Lister also made mention that no special honor would be paid to the participants of the service because, "There is one VIP with us today, who is with us in spirit."
Alumna Mrs. Aline Detweiler Schrock (Class of 1934) participated in the memorial service recounting of Reagan: "On the campus he was available whenever enthusiasm and kindness were called for. He was a cheerleader and not only at games." Mrs. Schrock also thanked her late fellow classmate: "Thank you, Dutch, for being a cheerleader for my College and my Country."
Mrs. Sarah Gohl Isabel (Class of 1998) also shared her views of the late president. "While many of us did not have the honor of meeting President Reagan, all of us feel like we knew him and that he is a part of us. From the first day we walked onto this campus, we learned lessons from a great leader, a great mentor, and a great man. He has impacted our lives in ways that we are continually discovering and rediscovering."
In the fall of 1928, Ronald W. Reagan, a young man from Dixon, Illinois, enrolled as a freshman at Eureka College. “Dutch,” as he was known in his college days, was encouraged to apply to Eureka College by his minister, the Rev. Mr. Ben Cleaver of the First Christian Church in Dixon. He became an active participant in many aspects of campus life, including athletics, dramatics, and student government. His enthusiasm for the college led him to persuade his older brother Neil to follow him to Eureka in 1929.
During his four years at Eureka, he developed a deep affection for the college that continued throughout his life. Reagan’s commitment to Eureka College was demonstrated by more than a dozen return visits to the campus, including the delivery of a major foreign policy address at the 1982 commencement ceremony in which he announced the Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (Start). He also served 18 years on the Eureka College Board of Trustees.
Congressman Ray LaHood joined the memorial commenting on the loss of a great leader and man. Congressman LaHood mentioned how "Ronald Reagan was a great communicator because he had something to communicate." Also mentioned in Congressman LaHood's tribute was that Reagan did not think that "values can be thrown in a speech at the last moment. Values must inspire and shape every utterance." The greatest of these values for Reagan was freedom and "freedom will prevail."
Finally the service concluded with the singing of the Eureka College alma mater:
'Neath the Elms upon the campus Glorious to view Stands Eureka Alma Mater Faithful, tried and true.
When we leave thy halls forever Never to return Still within our hearts fond memories Steadily will burn.
Chorus: Lift the chorus, speed it onward Ne'er our voices fail Praise to thee, O fair Eureka Praise to thee, all hail.
If you would like to make a monetary tribute, the Reagan family have requested memorials be made to one of three charitable organizations; Eureka College, The Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation or the Alzheimer's Association.
"On this day, we remember and celebrate This Life, of this man, Ronald W. Reagan.
This Life, was planted upon the plains, nourished by simplicity,
Laced with humor, and made strong by will.
This Life, and this man, walked a trail known by many.
The trail of This Life passed through small towns, swam in rivers,
Entered a College, was transmitted, was filmed, was viewed, and led.
This Life, was lifted high by hands made firm by common cause.
This Life, was a life which brought shape and direction, Form and inspiration, vision and leadership."
-Rev. Dr. Terry Ewing, Chaplain
"On this day, we remember and celebrate
This Life, Ronald W. Reagan.
To the family who remain and celebrate
This Life, Loving God: Extend your mercy that they continue to share the blessing which he knew.
We offer a blessing for This Life, Ronald W. Reagan:
'Now, in the sunset, in the coming of night, as the day draws into dusk, we thank you for the peace of night, that rest may come'"
- Rev. Dr. Terry Ewing, Chaplain
If this college was in Eureka, CA, the school would be on a suiside watch knowing that they produced Ronald Reagan....
Absolutely beautiful. Thank you for the post!
Reagan’s commitment to Eureka College was demonstrated by more than a dozen return visits to the campus, including the delivery of a major foreign policy address at the 1982 commencement ceremony in which he announced the Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (Start).
As I scanned the article I kept looking for the protestors head count. Then I came to your post.
ROTFL!!
Ronald W. Reagan
In Memoriam
1911-2004
The Eureka College community mourns the passing of Ronald W. Reagan, the 40th President of the United States and honored alumnus of the college class of 1932.
Following are statements by Eureka College President Paul Lister and others upon the death of Ronald Reagan, a 1932 alumnus and former Eureka College trustee.
Paul R. Lister, President of Eureka College Director of the Ronald W. Reagan Leadership Program at Eureka College:
"Ronald Reagan constantly referred to Eureka College as the institution that shaped his life; a life that then shaped the world. His remarkable service and leadership earned him a lasting, prominent place in the history of the United States and in the hearts of free people everywhere. President Reagan played an important part in the 150-year history of our College. Through the living legacy of the Reagan Leadership Program, he will always be a significant part of our present and future as well. The College and our nation have lost a great leader and a cherished friend. The Ronald W. Reagan Leadership program at Eureka College is a fitting tribute to the most renowned leader the college has ever produced. Reagan Fellows have graduated from Eureka College and have taken out into their broader world the unique legacy of leadership through service exemplified by Ronald Reagan."
Dr. Brian Sajko, Curator of Ronald Reagan Museum at Eureka College:
"This example of a true American will be deeply missed, but President Reagan's life will continue to serve as an example to Eureka College students and many others-- and isn't that the sign of a truly great person?"
Eureka College Ronald Reagan Fellow Anna Freidinger of Pekin, Class of 2007:
"It is with a heavy heart America mourns the loss of its "Great Communicator"…but even in this time of somber silence, the Reagan legacy of leadership will continue to speak for many years to come."
Over the years, President Reagan carried a deep commitment and love for Eureka College, demonstrated by his active involvement thoughout his lifetime to his alma mater.
Reagan's Participation in events at Eureka College
In the fall of 1928 Ronald Reagan, from Dixon, Ill., enrolled as a freshman at Eureka College. He became an active participant in many phases of campus life, culminating in his role as president of the student body as a senior. He was destined to become a prominent motion picture star, the governor of California, and the 40th President of the United States of America.
Dutch, as he was known in his college days, was encouraged to apply to Eureka College by his minister, the Rev. Ben Cleaver of the First Christian Church in Dixon. During his four years at Eureka, Mr. Reagan developed a deep affection for the college, which continued throughout his life. His enthusiasm led him to persuade his older brother, Neil, to follow him to Eureka in 1929. Eureka College boasts that its historic commitment to small enrollment gives every student an unusual opportunity to participate in activities, building initiative and leadership. Ronald Reagan's four years at Eureka are a testimony to those principles.
His activities included:
Dramatics: Appeared in 14 plays, including Aria de Capo in 1931 in which he was cited for character portrayal in national competition.
Athletics: Lettered in football, swimming and track. He was the College's leading swimmer, being named coach of the team his last two years. He played guard on the football team, lettering three years.
Student Government: Served two years on the Student Senate, becoming president his senior year.
Other: An active member of Tau Kappa Epsilon fraternity, President of the Boosters Club, a cheerleader for the basketball team, and held a campus job in the dining hall all through college.
Ronald Reagan graduated in 1932 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in social science and economics. He moved to Davenport, Iowa, to accept a position as a sports announcer for radio station WOC. His continuing career led him to Hollywood and then into state and national politics, but his loyalty to Eureka College was evidenced by his involvement in various college related events.
Ronald W. Reagan
In Memoriam
1911-2004
The Eureka College community mourns the passing of Ronald W. Reagan, the 40th President of the United States and honored alumnus of the college class of 1932.
Timeline of participation in events at Eureka College:
1941 He made his first return trip to the campus since entering motion pictures.
1947 He returned to lead the Pumpkin Festival Parade.
1955 He was on campus for the 100th Anniversary of the College, during which he received a Centennial Citation.
1957 He delivered the commencement address at the 25th anniversary of his graduation, and was awarded the honorary degree of Doctor of Humane Letters by his alma mater.
1967 As Governor of California, he returned to dedicate the new Melick Library, along with fellow dignitaries Senator Everett Dirksen, Senator Charles Percy, Governor Otto Kemer, U.S. Representative Robert Michel, and others.
1970 He and his brother Neil, a 1933 graduate of Eureka College, attended the formal opening of Reagan Physical Education Center, named for them.
1977 He kicked-off a capital campaign for the College.
1979 He spoke at Honors Day convocation, and chaired the initial meeting of the College's National Advisory Council.
1980 Near the end of his first presidential campaign, he spoke at a pep rally on campus.
1982 He delivered a major foreign policy address at Eureka College Commencement which announced for the first time his goal for a Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (START) with the Soviet Union. Widely known as "The Eureka Speech," this signaled "the beginning of the end of the Cold War."
The Ronald W. Reagan Leadership Program was established to recognize young men and women of exceptional talent, who have the potential to lead and the desire to serve their society. The Reagan Leadership Program provides a unique opportunity for such fellows, five students in each class, a chance to develop and refine that potential and desire. Mentorships with noted leaders around the globe offer fellows a chance to experience, firsthand, the leadership skills of others.
1984 He delivered an address on campus to kick off Time's Distinguished Speakers series in which he reaffirmed his determination to reach agreements with Moscow on reducing the size of the two superpowers' nuclear arsenals.
1986 He was the honored dinner guest at the newly renovated Willard Hotel in Washington, D.C., for an event benefitting the College's Ronald Reagan Leadership Program.
1987 He hosted a White House reception for the Ronald Reagan Fellows and leading supporters of Eureka College.
1992 In his farewell visit to his alma mater, he delivered the commencement address at the 60th anniversary of his graduation.
In addition to participation in these college events, President Reagan served three six-year terms on the College's Board of Trustees (1947-53, 1967-73, 1974-80).
1999 Maureen Reagan (1941-2001), President Reagan's eldest daughter, was elected to a five-year term on the college's Board of Trustees.
The Ronald Reagan Peace Garden was dedicated to recognize President Reagan's contributions toward world peace and specifically his 1982 speech at the college announcing the Strategic Arms Reduction Challenge to the Soviet Union. A bronze bust of Reagan is the centerpiece of the garden. Quotes from the speech are inscribed on the pedestal.
The Ronald Reagan Trail opened, connecting 11 communities that include historical landmarks that played a role in President Reagan's life.
Ronald W. Reagan
In Memoriam
1911-2004
Quotes from Reagan (found on the walls of the Reagan Museum)
Compiled by Dr. Brian Sajko , curator
"In four short years you blink and college is gone. You go to class, you study hard- even pulling an occasional all-nighter. You struggle through "Western Civilization and Culture," you meet your friends at "The Outpost" for a few beers. Some of you join fraternities and sororities, you fall in and out of love, you cheer for the Red Devils and before you know it, you're in cap and gown. It's hard to believe it happens so fast, but it does."
"In your short time here, you became best friends with people you did not even know before you came here. I'll bet you hardly remember when you did not know many of the people you are closest to today. The bonding which takes place in college is unlike any other experience."
"My young friends, savor these moments. Keep the memories close to your heart."
"The most valuable lesson I learned at Eureka is that every individual makes a difference."
"One of the first things I found out about my particular college was that, because of its size, we assumed a lot of assignments. Most of the time we took a whole host of leadership roles simply because there was no one else to do it. It was my first taste of stepping forward and assuming responsibility for more than my own life, and I never forgot it. Sometimes, when I think of how little I knew about life, contrasted with how much responsibility I took on at Eureka, it makes me smile. But the college never let me do less than my best."
"I had never faced a kickoff without a prayer. I didn't pray to win- I didn't expect God to take sides- but I prayed no one would be injured, we'd all do our best and have no regrets no matter how the game came out."
"Eureka, of course, is a Greek word that means I have found it and it described perfectly the sense of discovery I felt the day I arrived here in the fall of 1928. Eureka was everything I had dreamed it would be and more."
"I was born February 6, 1911, in a flat above the local bank in Tampico, Illinois. According to family legend, when my father ran up the stairs and looked at his newborn son, he quipped, "He looks like a fat little Dutchman. But who knows, he might grow up to be president some day." I asked people to call me "Dutch." That was a nickname that grew out of my father's calling me "the Dutchman" whenever he referred to me."
"From one Red Devil to all the others- hail to the maroon and gold, and hail to our alma mater, and I think all of us should pledge in our hearts that it will be there long after we're gone, doing for young people what it did for us."
"If I had to do it all over again, I'd go to Eureka College."
lol. Sort of like Glen Ellyn, Illinois vs. Glen Ellen, California.
One more reason why Illinois is the real land of Reagan, not his adopted state. Reagans have lived in Illinois for generations -- his great-great granddad came to Illinois during the potato famine in Ireland.
As a whole Illinois might be controlled by RATs now (like CA), but Ronald Reagan is STILL revered and adored in his native towns like Dixon and Eureka, IL, after living there more than 60 years ago. That's staunch Republican country. Try to find that kind of support in Sancremento and Hollywood, after Reagan lived there for decades. Hmmm.
BUMP
Let me take this opportunity to mention that when Reagan joined WOC in Davenport, he was not hired for a sports announcer position. That is the position he desparately desired, but it had been filled. He was hired to do the weather. He did, of course, later get the sports announcer position. I haven't heard this mentioned anywhere. I likely wouldn't know myself, if I didn't live here (Iowa).
Are people still around who remember hearing RR do weathercasting or sportscasting?
Results for 61283-9700
111 Main St
Tampico, Whiteside County, Illinois (REAGAN BIRTHPLACE)
CURRENT ELECTED OFFICIALS
President George W. Bush - (Republican)
Vice President Richard Bruce Cheney - (Republican)
U.S. Senate
Senator Richard J. 'Dick' Durbin Senior Seat - (Democrat)
Senator Peter G. Fitzgerald Junior Seat - (Republican)
U.S. House
Representative J. Dennis 'Denny' Hastert District 14 - (Republican)
Illinois Senate
Senator Todd Sieben District 45 - (Republican)
Illinois House of Representatives
Representative Gerald L. 'Jerry' Mitchell District 90 - (Republican)
Results for 61021-3646
816 S. Hennepin Ave.
Dixon, Lee County, Illinois (REAGAN CHILDHOOD HOME)
CURRENT ELECTED OFFICIALS
President George W. Bush - (Republican)
Vice President Richard Bruce Cheney - (Republican)
U.S. Senate
Senator Richard J. 'Dick' Durbin Senior Seat - (Democrat)
Senator Peter G. Fitzgerald Junior Seat - (Republican)
U.S. House
Representative J. Dennis 'Denny' Hastert District 14 - (Republican)
Illinois Senate
Senator Todd Sieben District 45 - (Republican)
Illinois House of Representatives
Representative Gerald L. 'Jerry' Mitchell District 90 - (Republican)
Results for 61530-1015
T.K.E. (Tau Kappa Epsilon) House, Burton Ave
Eureka College, Woodford County, Illinois (REAGAN COLLEGE YEARS)
CURRENT ELECTED OFFICIALS
President George W. Bush - (Republican)
Vice President Richard Bruce Cheney - (Republican)
U.S. Senate
Senator Richard J. 'Dick' Durbin Senior Seat - (Democrat)
Senator Peter G. Fitzgerald Junior Seat - (Republican)
U.S. House
Representative Ray H. LaHood District 18 - (Republican)
Illinois Senate
Senator Dale E. Risinger District 37 - (Republican)
Illinois House of Representatives
Representative David R. Leitch District 73 - (Republican)
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Results for 90028-4789
Montecito Apartments, 6650 Franklin Ave
Hollywood, Los Angeles County, California (REAGAN'S HOLLYWOOD CAREER)
CURRENT ELECTED OFFICIALS
U.S. Senate
Senator Dianne Feinstein Senior Seat - (Democrat)
Senator Barbara Boxer Junior Seat - (Democrat)
U.S. House
Representative Diane E. Watson District 33 - (Democrat)
California Senate
Senator Kevin Murray District 26 - (Democrat)
California Assembly
Assemblymember Jackie B. Goldberg District 45 - (Democrat)
Results for 95819-4135
Governor’s Mansion, 16th and H Streets
Sacramento, Sacramento County, California (REAGAN'S GOVERNORSHIP)
CURRENT ELECTED OFFICIALS
U.S. Senate
Senator Dianne Feinstein Senior Seat - (Democrat)
Senator Barbara Boxer Junior Seat - (Democrat)
U.S. House
Representative Robert T. Matsui District 5 - (Democrat)
California Senate
Senator Deborah V. Ortiz District 6 - (Democrat)
California Assembly
Assemblymember Darrell S. Steinberg District 9 - (Democrat)
Results for 90272-2736
1669 San Onofre Dr. and 668 St. Cloud, Los Angeles, CA 90077 [Bel-Air].
Pacific Palisades, Los Angeles County, California (REAGAN RETIREMENTS, POST-ACTING AND POST-PRESIDENCY)
CURRENT ELECTED OFFICIALS
U.S. Senate
Senator Dianne Feinstein Senior Seat - (Democrat)
Senator Barbara Boxer Junior Seat - (Democrat)
U.S. House
Representative Henry A. Waxman District 30 - (Democrat)
California Senate
Senator Sheila James Kuehl District 23 - (Democrat)
California Assembly
Assemblymember Paul Koretz District 42 - (Democrat)
Oh, there must be. Don't know any personally, however.
Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.