John F. Cindric | 1941 | Inducted 1980
A school superintendent for 21 years at Beaverdam and Arcadia. An outstanding undergraduate athlete at Findlay College and professional athlete after graduation. Played varsity basketball as center three years and was fullback for football team. Served as freshman baseball coach while a student. Played first base 8 years for the Yankee, Boston, and St. Louis organizations. Had a .339 batting average as he left baseball to enter the service. He has taught business education and served on numerous education committees locally and statewide. He is a member of the Zenobia Shrine and has served 35 years as a high school and college official in basketball and football. As a husband and father of 2 children he has been an asset in each community he has served.
Rear Admiral Edward L. Feightner | 1941 | Inducted 1980
A four year letter man in wrestling, two years in track, he was an outstanding undergraduate. President of the senior class, active in many other campus organizations. His military service began with his enlistment in June of 1941. He retired in 1974. He is active now as a consultant in aerospace technology in Washington D.C. he rose from Ensign to Rear Admiral in his military career and his last official position was a Deputy Commander for plans and Programs for the Naval Air Systems Command in 1972. He was commanding officer of both the USS Chikaskia and the USS Okinawa. Early in his career he was a member of the flight exhibition team “The Blue Angels.” He has been decorated many times. The Legion of Merit was given in 1971 for his exceptionally meritorious service from 1967 to 1970. The Navy Commendation Medal: The Distinguished Flying Cross with three Gold Stripes: the Air Medal with 11 Gold Stars to name but a few. He is a graduate of the Naval War College, Newport, Rhode Island.
Andrew Haba | 1956 | Inducted 1980
As a varsity wrestler at Findlay College, he lettered in the sport each of four years. Had a personal record of 25 wins, 2 losses and 2 ties. Took top honors in a number of tournaments as an undergraduate. Has coached wrestling in his home community in Maryland. His teams have been state champions and one of his former students went on to win the NCAA National Championship. He has coached for 21 years and taught business and math in high school. His work in the community has led him to start kid wrestling in Clarksburg, Maryland where he is a member of the Knights of Columbus. He is active in the YMCA and in many professional organizations. He is a devoted husband and father.
Jerry Savoy | 1966 | Inducted 1980
A four year letterman with the Findlay College Oiler football team. Excelled as an end during the 1965 season when the Oilers played their first national play-off fame. Signed with the Los Angeles Rams. After a brief stint with the pro’s returned to Ohio and completed his juris doctorate from Cleveland Marshall School of Law. He is now President of the Savoy, Serazin, & Deery Co. in Elyria. His activities in youth have been with the CYO Football Little League and the K of C in Elyria. He was President of the Varsity F Chapter on campus. Captain of the 1965 football team and active in other campus organizations. He is a husband and father of two children.
John Paul Schlosser | 1943 | Inducted 1980
An outstanding athlete at Findlay College lettering in football All-Ohio Honorable Mention – drafted by Philadelphia Eagles, assisted “Bully” Jones in coaching 1942. Outstanding baseball player, captain of the Ohio Conference Championship team 1941. Was a recognized teacher and school administrator. Served as principal in the Mt. Healthy City Schools. He has taught driver education and received statewide recognition. His coaching career includes Mifflin High School, Columbus, football and basketball, Assisted Woody Hayes; was reserved basketball coach and head basketball coach. He retired from teaching in 1975. As a salesman he has handled all classes of insurance as well as variety of other jobs which have interested him. A husband and father.
Louis O. “Duke” Ziebold | 1948 | Inducted 1980
One of the outstanding tackles of Findlay College football, lettering in that sport four years. Named to the first team position of Ohio Conference 1946-47. Was picked for third team honors All Ohio Honorable Mention in ’46-’47. Taught high school for 30 years in Leesburg, Florida; Albion, Michigan and 24 years at Clay High School, Oregon, Ohio. A veteran of World War II U.S. Coast Guard. Is a member of National Rural Mail Carriers Association where he now carries mail for Oregon rural customers. Member of the American Legion, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Knights of Columbus, and Our Lady of Lourdes Church. He was an official in football and basketball for 21 years. Is a member of the Ohio High School Athletic Association. Was named to Who’s Who in American Colleges in 1948. A Christian layman, father, and husband.
Lester C. Baum | 1953 | Inducted 1981
One of Findlay’s outstanding wrestlers in the 114.5 pound class, he finished fourth in Olympic Tryouts at Cornell in 1952. He lettered three years in R. Wrestling, two years in track and was both football and basketball manager. He instituted wrestling at Stokes Local High School and Urbana College where he is now Assistant Professor of P.E., Intramural Director and Wrestling Coach. He has also taught at Worthington High School, Kenyon College, Elizabeth Town College, PA, and Muskingum College. He was inducted into the Ohio High School Wrestling Hall of Fame in 1981 and was also honored by NCAA as a 25-year Coach of Wrestling in 1980. He has coached many champions and given service throughout the State and region to farther his favorite sport.
Jacob Diemert | 1942 | Inducted 1981
Findlay College’s student wrestling coach in 1941-42, he lettered in Wrestling three years, winning the Interstate Silver Medal in 1941 and the Interstate Bronze medal in 1942. He played football in his freshman year. A past-president of the Northwestern Chapter of American Foundry Society, he is the Executive Vice-President of Erie Castins Co., Erie, PA. he is a former Vice-President of Manufacturing and Foundry Superintendent. He holds membership with the Industrial Advisory Committee of the Foundry Education Foundation of Penn State and is a member of the Industrial Advisory Committee of the Erie County Vo-Tech School.
John N. Steffen | 1966 | Inducted 1981
One of Findlay’s outstanding Basketball players in the mid-‘60s he lettered three years in the sport and was the leading free throw shooter in his senior year. A past president of the Varsity F, he has gone on to new heights in Alumni support of the College, always ready to help in any project. He is an active member of the Optimists, the K of C, Director of the Findlay Area Chamber of Commerce and a Director of the Easter Seal Board and other community programs. The Developer of The Northview Plaza he is also President of Star Sav Super Market and Ada Cardinal Inc.
Woodrow Zinser | 1934 | Inducted 1981
As an undergraduate he was a Varsity Football, Baseball and Track star, gaining nine letters while at Findlay College. He held the Northwestern Ohio record for the Javelin throw and was a member of the Northwestern Ohio Championship Baseball team as a pitcher. One of Ohio’s outstanding educators, he served the following Ohio School Districts as Superintendent: Olmsted Falls, Cambridge, Avon Lake, Mentor, Mansfield and Youngstown. He has served with distinction each community in which he lived through many civic organizations.
James F. Carder | 1968 | Inducted 1982
One of Findlay College’s all-time basketball stars who, with his twin brother, hold many of the records for the game as played on Oiler courts. He played the most games (104), has the record for the most field goals (748) as well as the most attempts (1,571). He holds the record for the most free throws attempted (689) and made (514). He holds the record for the highest number of points by a Findlay College roundballer in his career (2,079). He coaching career at Lima Central Catholic has seen him pass along his know-how to others. His teams have gone to District finals and his golf teams have won the Findlay District and went on to State level in 1981. He was NAIA All-district each year in college and placed as an All-American third team two years. He was selected as a member of the Board of Administration for the Lima Junior Golf Association and assistant coach for the 1977 District 8 Basketball Coaches Association.
Jerry J. Carder | 1968 | Inducted 1982
One half of the team of Carder twins which thrilled Findlay College Basketball fans from 1964 to 1968. His record includes being the second highest scorer for his four-year career at Findlay with 1,953 points and the third highest scorer for one season with 27 games and a total of 577 points. He was Honorable Mention All-American in 1967 and third team in 1968. He is Director of Student Activities and Athletics for Owens Technical College along with work with WSPD Radio during high school and Toledo University basketball broadcasts. He coached a number of good teams before entering the college administration area. He was instrumental in starting Basketball at Davis Jr. College. His community activities in Toledo include the Center Benefit Golf Tournament. He has been Vice-President and Treasurer of the Ohio Technical College Association, was selected Athletic Director of the Year by his body in 1980, and has served on a North-Central Education team this year.
Geraldine Harrington Lacney | 1975 | Inducted 1982
One of Findlay College’s outstanding undergraduate women athletes of the 1970’s. a campus leader, President of Delta Zeta Sorority. Student Government and Class Officer and an outstanding College athlete. She lettered tow years in volleyball, 4 years in softball and basketball. She excelled in all she attempted. One season’s basketball record for her team was 14 wins and 1 loss, and also an undefeated softball season. She played professional basketball after graduation with the Arkansas Lassies from Ionia, Michigan. For the past six years she has been teaching Health and Physical Education at Limestone, New York High School, and coaching all sports. She has become a marathon runner. She won the Kane Pennsylvania Marathon in 1979 and placed fourth in 1981. She ran the Prague Isle Marathon at Eris, Pennsylvania in 1980 and plans to enter the Kane event. In women’s athletics at Findlay College, her abilities and personality will be remembered.
Patrick W. Rooney | 1958 | Inducted 1982
A four-year letterman in football, he was chosen all league two years in a row. He was captain of the swim team during his years at Findlay. Since graduation he has been continuing his professional life at Cooper Tire and Rubber Company where he is now Vice President in Sales. His community involvements include the Chamber of Commerce, Rotary, and Trustee of the Community Improvement Corporation of Findlay and Hancock County. His involvement with Findlay College has been as President of Varsity F Alumni, Member of the Board of Governors, Chairman of various committees of the Oilers Club or for major fund raising efforts.
Jesse Tucker | 1963 | Inducted 1982
One of Findlay’s all-time great trackmen, he lettered each year of his college days here. He ran the 100, 440, 880 yard dashes and the 440 and mile relay. He held the 440 yard dash record for the school and Mid-Ohio conference. He was a member of the Championship relay teams for the 880 yard and mile relay. He excelled in the high jump, broad jump, and the shot put as well. His record since graduation is exemplary. He is director of the oil Industrial Relations for the Whirlpool Corporation, LaPorte, Indiana Facility, where he is also chairman of the Human Rights Commission, Vice-President of the Prisoner and Community Together program, as well as other community organizations. He is a single parent, having adopted two children. His record speaks for itself as does his life.
James B. Van Fleet |1942 | Inducted 1982
An outstanding athlete in three sports while attending Findlay College, he lettered three years in Football, 2 years in Track and 2 years in Golf. His professional career since graduation has seen him follow a 37 -year career with Marathon Oil Company culminating as the Eastern Regional Property Tax Manager. He has been active in numerous national and statewide tax associations, serving as chairman of committees and as officer for both State and National organizations. His memberships include both the Ohio and Findlay Chamber of Commerce and St. Andrews Methodist Church. He has been recognized by various trade associations, has written numerous papers on his area of expertise and is listed in Who’s Who. His support and interest in Findlay College has continued through the years.
Dale M. Gillespie | 1959 | Inducted 1983
A three sport letterman in football, baseball and track. An outstanding half back and full back, had a career total of 18 touchdowns, 900 plus yards rushing in one year and established a school record of a 90 yard punt return. His 8 home runs during 1956 and 1957 ranks No. 4 on all-time Findlay College list. Holds School record for best slugging percentage, .951, which he set during the 1956 (sophomore) season; included 39 total bases in 41 at bats. Was instrumental in helping Findlay College win the Mid-Ohio Championship that year. Competed in the shot put and discus along with the 880 yard relay. Coached all sports at Otsego, two track competitors qualified for the State meet in 1964. Active in Church and community. Still playing softball. Has worked in the Electronics Industry as Supervisor for 17 years.
William Hughes | 1964 | Inducted 1983
As all-around athlete at Findlay College lettering four years in football, wrestling and track. Named to all Mid-Ohio teams in 1959-60. All-District #22 in 1962-63 , and was the League Champion miler in 1961-62. He taught and coached for 12 years at Toledo Whitmer, Clay, Hillsdale, Michigan and Defiance. He is now General Manager of Manufacturers Supply Co. of Defiance. He was assistant coach in football, wrestling and track at both Whitmer and Clay, and then was head football coach at Defiance College from 1975 to 1982. He has been a wrestling official for 20 years, officiating at 10 State Tournaments and one NAIA National Tournament. His community activities include St. Marys Church and the United Way of Defiance County.
Helen Alexander Now |1928 | Inducted 1983
An outstanding track star in her years at Findlay College. She ran with the best and helped the Findlay College Women’s Track win the Northwestern Ohio Championship in 1925. They were undefeated that year. Since graduating she taught at Columbus Grove High School where she was named Teach of the Year; Glenwood Junior High School and McComb. Her activities have included President of the College First Church of God WCSC, the Church Women United of Hancock County, the Winebrenner Auxiliary. She also was secretary of the Findlay Community Action Commission. She and her husband have raised four daughters and both were named Outstanding Associates of Findlay College in 1958.
William I. Taborn, Sr. | 1957 | Inducted 1983
A four year letterman in football, he played the game to its fullest. He was named All Mid-Ohio Conference in the 1955-56 season, and was named a Little All-American in 1955 and 1956. He also wrestled during his sophomore year at college. He has continued his interest in sports throughout his career. He worked as a Cytotechnologist before accepting a position teaching and coaching at Otsego High School. He is Athletic Director and teacher at Libbey High School, Toledo. He is a trustee of the Christian Community Church of Toledo and an active member of the Northwestern Ohio Athletic Directors Association.
Dorothy Edwards | 1956 | Inducted 1984
One of Ohio’s outstanding women coaches having served 28 years at Elida High School as a teach of Physical Education and a coach of Women’s Basketball, Softball, Volleyball, Tennis Gold, Gymnastics and Swimming. She is presently Director of Girls Intermural Sports and coach’s volleyball and softball. She has had a championship fast pitch softball team the past two years and has had a 9 year coaching period recorded of 135 wins and 43 losses in softball. In the past 5 years her record is 104 wins and 10 losses. She has been AAA Regional Runner-up in 1981 and 1983. She had the State Semifinalist team in 1982 and the last two years, the league champions. At Eldia her team records are 103 wins and 64 losses. She was picked Coach of the Year in volleyball and softball two seasons by the Buckeye League Western Division and was named AAA Coach of the Year by district 8 coaches for volleyball in 1982, and All Star Coach for the volleyball in 1983. She is presently serving as Northwest District Representative on the Softball Advisory Committee of the OHSSA.
George B. Heller | 1960 | Inducted 1984
A Findlay College NAIA All American Basketball player, in 1960 he played with Kansas City Bound Oiler team. His three year total points at Findlay College were 1,389. He averaged in his Senior year 16 rebounds and 24 points per game. He was picked as an Olympic Team candidate in 1960. He was All Mid-Ohio three years in a row and was drafted by the New York Kickerbuckers. He was picked for the Army All-Star Team in 1961-62. He still holds the Hancock County record for Most Points in High School Career of 1,876 set while a student at Cory-Rawson. He served as Head Basketball Coach at Arcadia 1964-75. His 1969 team set the best record of any team at Arcadia, 16 wins and 3 losses, and his ’71 team made it to District Finals. He is now a teacher of Social Studies at Arcadia and an active supporter of the Van Buren High School athletic teams. A strong believer in the value of sports and a true family man.
Robert “Monk” Montgomery | 1966 | Inducted 1984
One of Findlay’s all time great lineman. He was a four year letterman in Football and participated in Track as well. The only player named to the First Team, NAIA All District 22 both offensively and defensively. He received Honorable Mention NAIA All-American status that same year, and was named Outstanding Offensive Lineman twice. He was named first team defensive tackle on the Findlay College “dream team” of that year. He served his Alma Mater as assistant football coach in the 1965 season when the team was nationally ranked. He coached the ’69 undefeated Mid-Ohio Conference Championship track team. He has been President of Varsity F and has directed the Annual Golf Outing for the members. He teaches Social Studies at Findlay High School and has been a real estate agent for David Bucher Realty CO. for the past 5 years. He is active in the St. Andrew United Methodist Church and Wilson Vance Parents Council. He is also sports commentator for WHMQ Radio for the past 15 years.
Carrol D. Neff | 1953 | Inducted 1984
An outstanding athlete, student and active alumnus since graduation, lettering four years in football, two years in baseball, and playing basketball one year. A member of the Who’s Who Among College and University Students. Past President of the Alumni Association, and Officer of the Varsity F Alumni Club. A member of the 1, 5 and 10 million Club of Ohio Association of Realtors, has been outstanding businessman working for Marathon in various management positions and now associated with Kohr Royer Griffith, Inc., Industrial Realtors of Columbus. A devoted family man and active Church member and a candidate for Certified Commercial Investment membership.
Albert L. Stacy | 1956 | Inducted 1984
An all round athlete while a student at Findlay College. He lettered 4 years in football, and baseball; and 2 years in wrestling. He was named “Football Most Valuable Player” in his junior year and co-captain in the Junior – Senior year. He played basketball for two years. He was head basketball and assistant coach at Vanlue, and head wrestling and assistant football coach at Fremont Ross. He has been a school principal for 19 years, the last 17 at Tiffin Columbian. The other two years he served at Western Reserve. A devoted administrator and community leader.
Alvia [A. R.] Charnes | 1966 | Inducted 1985
One of Findlay College’s outstanding Basketball players, who lettered each of four years and was captain of the squad as well as leading rebounder in 1966. Has distinguished himself in the field of business, having held many positions of importance with Marathon Petroleum Company where he is now the manager of Detroit Fuel Oil sales. He previously was related merchandise manager based at the main office in Findlay. He has attended the Marathon Advanced Management Program at Indiana University and the Tuck Executive Program at Dartmouth. He is a member of the Birmingham-Bloomfield Chamber of Commerce, the Detroit Oil Men’s Club, American Petroleum Institute, a past-president of Varsity F and is now serving Findlay College on the Endowment Advisory Committee. He was named Oiler of the Year in 1980. Vice Chairman of the International Oil Industry TBA Group in 1983-84, and served the Findlay Board of Education as its president in 1983. He married Mary Ann Heitmeyer and they have two daughters.
Jim Lane | 1965 | Inducted 1985
A man who has turned his Athletic Training to the world of Business and Industry with equal success. He is now the Vice President and General Manager Akron Standard Division of Eagle-Picher industries, Inc. As a Findlay College student he lettered in Football and Track. He was named Founders Son in 1965 and to Who’s Who in American Colleges and universities. He has coached Youth Football in Hudson, Ohio, coached a Kiwanis baseball team, as well as being Coach and Vice President of the Hudson Baseball Association. He is married to Kathryn Krauss and they have five children.
James McIntosh | 1965 | Inducted 1985
He is the only Findlay College graduate to have participated in all five of the College’s five NAIA post-season games, as a Linebacker-Fullback in 1964, and as an assistant Football Coach in ’78, the National Championship yard of ’79, and again in the ’83 and ’84 seasons. He is a Math teacher in Fostoria, as well as Vice President and Negotiator for the Fostoria Education Association. He has coached and participated in Youth Baseball in Arcadia and Findlay for many years. As an undergraduate, he lettered in Football and was an officer in the Varsity F Club. He is married to Nance Kelly and they have three children.
Carl R. Meyer | 1963 | Inducted 1985
An outstanding Athlete of Findlay and an Outstanding Graduate, having worked at some of the major colleges in America. He is now Athletic Director at the University of Cincinnati. His previous university work has been at U of Arizona, U of Illinois and Dartmouth. He taught and coached at Perrysburg, Warren -Western Reserve and Mount Vernon. As an FC Athlete, he was President of Varsity F, an All Mid-Ohio Center for two years, First Team All Ohio Center in 1962. He co-captained the nationally ranked Oilers in his senior year and played in the Gem City All-Star game in 1962. He is married to Wava Kerr and they have three children.
Allen T. Smith | 1966 | Inducted 1985
One of Findlay College’s all-time great Backfield Runners. Named Little All-American and was a member of the championship team in 1965. Led the nation in Small College’s scoring for 1964 season with 108 points. Left Findlay College in his senior year to join the AFL New York Jets. He played three seasons with them as a kick-off-punt return specialist and running back. In the following years, he was under contract with the Detroit Lions, the Chicago Bears, the Cincinnati Bengals and the New York Giants. During the years 1970 to 75, he was also supervisor of the Cultural Arts Program for the Toledo Department of Recreation. Since 1975, he has been with the Sun Oil Company and now serves as a Zone Foreman. He is a member of the Toledo Recreation Club. He and his wife, Linda, have five children.
Eddie W. Turner | 1957 | Inducted 1985
An outstanding Oiler End of the early 1950’s. he was named All Mid-Ohio Defensive End in the years ’54, ’55 and ’56, and lettered in Football four years and Track two years. He has devoted his professional life to Law Enforcement, having served as a uniformed Patrolman, Detective Bureau, Hostage Negotiator, Crime Prevention Officer, and presently is a Toledo Police Community Relations Officer. He has been given the Toledo Police Division’s Professional Service Award in 1985, and received the Crime Prevention Associates Officer of the Year Award in 1979. His community activities include the Warren AME Church, the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity. Volunteers of America, Past Director of Mid-City Football and many, many other activities and community awards too numerous to mention here. He married Jacquelyn Hill and they have three children.
Dave Bethany | 1967 | Inducted 1986
Named Southwestern Athletic Conference Track Coach of the Year 13 times and NAIA Track Coach of the Year 3 times. Dave is head track coach and Director of Physical Education at Texas Southern University. His record for men’s teams includes conference champs 14 of 15 years and 7 NAIA titles. His women’s teams amassed 5 NAIA titles in the NCAA Division I, his women’s team placed third. He has coached 15 Olympians, 65 international competitors, and is the technical advisor to the Nigerian Olympic Committee and the National Sports Committee. He has coached 4 USA teams in world competitions. He is president of the Athletic Congress. His athletic prowess at Findlay listed him as All-American his senior year, All-Ohio for 3 years, and 1965 Player of the Year. He wrestled and went to the Olympic trails in 1960. In track, he threw the shot put. He was named to the Dean’s List 6 semesters during his college career.
William Hoval | 1956 | Inducted 1986
As a Findlay College athlete, William gained four football letters, one wrestling letter and one basketball letter. A coach and educator with the Geneva Area City Schools for 28 years, he is a guidance counselor, head basketball and golf coach. His basketball records in 255 wins – 145 losses in 19 years, with championships in the Northeastern Conference seven years, Sectional AAA champions eight years and District AAA winners once. In baseball, his records include conference champions four years, sectional champions two years and district champions two years, for a won-lost record of 151 to 72. His golf record is 75-46, with a sectional and a Northeastern Conference Championship in five years.
Paul Riley | 1966 | Inducted 1986
A Findlay College All-American NAIA lineman, Paul was picked three years as District 22 outstanding lineman in national play-off games. He lettered four years in football and two years in baseball. Now physical education teacher and football coach at Tiffin East Junior High School, he also officiates at state football play-off games. Previously he was head football coach at Tiffin Columbian High School where one of his teams won the Northern Ohio League Championship.
Richard J. Rybarczyk | 1954 | Inducted 1986
An outstanding athlete of Findlay College. Richard lettered three years in football and two in basketball. He played in two NAIA National Tournaments at Kansas City. An executive with TRW for 32 years, he is Plant Manager for the Nelson Division in Elyria. He is active in United Way and Little League football and basketball.
Robert Sucher | 1939 | Inducted 1986
A versatile athlete, Robert was named second team All-Ohio in football in 1939, and participated in basketball, golf and pole vaulting in track at Findlay College. He is retired as Vice President of Organic Chemicals Division of Witco Chemical Company after 29 year career. He also served as Assistant to the President at Burton Rubber Processing Corporation before retiring again. He is President and co-founder of the Southern Ohio Rubber Group, as well as involved with the Boy Scouts of America and the Akron Children’s Hospital.
Ronald Jean Dellapina | 1964 | Inducted 1987
An outstanding wrestler, Ron was the first Findlay College wrestler to take first place in the 4-I Tournament. During his four years as a letterman, “The Flame” was both the Most Take Downs Award and the Most Fall Award twice, was captain of the wrestling team, was voted the Outstanding Wrestler by his teammates, placed 2nd in the Wilkes Open, was twice champion of the Wheaton Tournament, was a NAIA 4th place winner, and accumulated a record of 44-6. As a teacher and head wrestling coach at Fort Cherry High School, “Dell’s” success on the mats has continued, as he has coached 21 consecutive conference champions, 27 sectional champions, and 16 state qualifiers. He has earned sectional and conference coach of the year awards, the F.J. Egner Coaching Award, and was named the Western Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic League coach of the year. Active coaching Little League Girl’s Baseball and Youth Softball, Ron believes “Sports are a microcosm of life, in that they reflect self-discipline, teamwork, and dealing with others in a competitive world.”
Thomas Madzy | 1961 | Inducted 1987
A two-time recipient of the F.J. Egner Coaching Award in football, Tom is the head football coach at Berea High School, where he is also the Marketing Education coordinator and assistant track coach. He has led his teams to six conference and three Region 1 titles, two state football semi finals, a state football runners up title, and many more team honors. Tom has earned a number of coaching awards, including six conference Coach of the Year honors, head coach of the North-South and East-West All Star games, and Northeastern Ohio Coach of the Year. He is the treasurer and a past president of the Greater Cleveland Football Coaches Association. Community involvement includes organizing the Berea Relays and the Central Reserve Life Run, as well as working with the Berea Kiwanis and Rotary Clubs. While at Findlay College, Tome lettered in football three years and served one year as an assistant coach. According to Tom, “Sports promotes the self-discipline, sacrifice, and togetherness that enables a person to make it in the game of life.”
Bob Purdy | 1948 | Inducted 1987
One of the first inductees into the Ohio High School Athletic Director’s Hall of Fame, Bob is nationally recognized as an expert in athletic administration. The Director of Athletics in the Berea City School District for 34 years, “Mick” was named Ohio High School Athletic Director’s Association; authored the book entitled The Successful High School Athletic Program; and chaired the committee that wrote Crowd Control for High School. Bob was named head track coach at Berea High School for nine years, winning five conference championships and numerous relay titles. He founded the Berea Relays and the Berea Junior High Boys and Girls Invitational. Bob has served his community well, earning the honors of the Berea Kiwanis Club Distinguished Service Award and the Grindstone Award as the Outstanding Citizen in the City of Berea. While at Findlay College, Bob lettered in basketball, track, and tennis, and served as the head football trainer. His philosophy on the value of sports is “to offer the best possible program for the most student athletes possible, supervised by the best coaches available.”
Ron Rahe | 1963 | Inducted 1987
A versatile athlete, Ron lettered four years in football, two in track, and two in wrestling. As a freshman, he was ranked 4th in the nation in rushing with 1,060 yards, amassing a total of 3,150 yards scoring 30 touchdowns during his career at Findlay College. Ron earned honors in the Mid-Ohio League three years, and served as captain and was the Most Valuable player his senior year. Ron is currently a key account manager for Swift-Eckirch in Findlay, where he has held a number of positions during a very successful career. He was also a member of the $1 Million Leaders Club for two consecutive years as a life insurance salesman. Involvement in sports provides “fun, that not only opens the doorway to education, but to every walk way in life,” is Ron’s philosophy of the value of sports.
Carl Reichert | 1947 | Inducted 1987
Being asked to try out for the New York Kickerbockers was the highlight of Carl’s successful career in basketball at Findlay College. During the two years he lettered in basketball, Carl was the leading rebounder and scorer for the team. He also lettered two years in baseball. Carl is retired after 32 years in education. He was at Oakwood High School for 24 years, where he served as a teacher, coach, and Athletic Director. Carl serves his community well through involvement in the St. Vincent de Paul Society, volunteering at Good Samaritan Hospital, and through membership in the Knights of Columbus, from which he received the forty years of Faithful Service award. In reflecting on his playing of sports, Carl comments, “I think that the playing of sports promotes good health, good personal habits, sportsmanship, and competitive spirit.”
Joe Vajentic | 1957 | Inducted 1987
At Findlay College, Joe was a dedicated athlete, lettering four years in football and two in baseball. As a senior, “The Golden Nugget” was chosen as the Most Valuable Player as well as captain of the football team, was named a Little All-American, and earned honors in the Mid Ohio League for the second time. Joe has served as a high school teacher and coach for 29 years, and is currently a Business teacher and assistant football coach at Avon Lake High School, where he has served for the past 21 years. His success on the gridiron has carried over into his career, as Joe has coached seven conference championship teams and was nominated by his peers at Avon Lake High School to be named one of the Teachers of the Year for 1986-87. He is active in community sports and maintains the philosophy that “Sports participation teaches discipline and group co-operation, essential in all phases of title.”
Steve Babyak, Jr. | 1951 | Inducted 1988
A native of Slovan, PA, Steve is retired after serving 28 years as a social studies teacher and coach in the public schools. He is credited with recruiting a number of athletes to attend Findlay College, many from the Burgttstown, PA area. His coaching accomplishments includes coaching the Washington County championship wrestling teams from 1951 through 1958, the WPIAL championship team in 1957 and the Nassau County championship wrestling in 1968. He is also earned Coach of the Year honors in 1957 and 1968. While attending Findlay College, Steve lettered in football and was active in the Varsity “F” club. He holds a MS and a doctorate in education, as well as a principal’s certificate. In commenting on the value of sports, he states that “If I had to measure the true value of sports, then let the scale be the size of the smile in the hearts and eyes of every competitor, official, spectator, and parent.”
Peter Bruce Daub | 1970 | Inducted 1988
A nationally recognized in the Middle States and United States Professional Tennis Associations, Peter has distinguished himself as a speaker, coach and professional. He is the varsity tennis coach at Temple University, where he has coached over 200 sectionally ranked and live nationally ranked junior competitors and has earned Coach of the Year honors in 1985-1987. Peter is the owner and the pro at the Frog Hollow Tennis Club, owner of Peak Performance and Development Tennis Camp, director of the Adidas Tennis Camp and a speaker at numerous clinics and seminars. He served as a U.S. goodwill ambassador in Kirabati, received the highest award in tennis teaching – the Master Pro Award from the USPTA – an was the 1988 recipient of the ITC/ Volvo Community Service Award. Peter served as captain of the Findlay College tennis team, sports editor of the school newspaper and was the first recipient of the William Ives Memorial Sportsmanship Award, given in honor of his dear friend and teammate, in evaluating sports he comments that “Talent and potential are overused words in sports. These words are tiny when measured with the true value of sports – effort, character and heart.”
Sheldon O. Hall | 1941 | Inducted 1988
Thirty-five years of service as a high school teacher, coach and principal followed a 5 ½ year military career for Sheldon Hall. As an educator, Sheldon has been honored by the Logan Co. Music and Arts Assoc. and the Logan Co. National Honor Society, in addition to receiving the Distinguished Service Award from the Ohio County Superintendents Assoc. During his career as a fighter pilot in WWII, “Red” achieved the rank of captain and was decorated with the Purple Heart and the Air Medal. He is currently active in the United Methodist Church and serves as a Washington Township trustee in the Indian Lake area. At Findlay College, Sheldon lettered in football, baseball and wrestling and earned second place honors in the Cleveland AAU wrestling meet. In philosophizing on the value of sports, “Red” notes that “True sports enable one to express themselves, and at the same time learn respect and tolerance of other fellow athletes.”
John W. Ramsey | 1953 | Inducted 1988
A dedicated educator for thirty years, John achieved the positions of Athletic Director and Dean of Students and head coached football, basketball, baseball, track and cross country before his retirement. “Rams” was responsible for starting the track programs at Waynesfield, Bloomdale and Elmwood High Schools in Ohio. He coached several county and league championship teams and numerous state track and field finalists – including on high school All-American. John has also served his community well, as he is active in both the United Methodist Church and many local projects. He has been honored by the Elmwood Athletic Boosters and Elmwood High School for his years of service. John played football, basketball and baseball at Findlay College, but his sports career highlight was the opportunity to try out with the Los Angeles Rams. His philosophy on the value of sports is that “Responsibility is an essential of life. It is developed in sports.”
Robert D. “Bob” Snoddy | 1942 | Inducted 1988
An outstanding baseball player while at Findlay College. Bob later played professionally in the Ohio State League, Class “D’; the Middle Atlantic League, Class “C”; and the Canadian Provincial League. His baseball career was interrupted by WWII during which Bob served as a captain in the Air Force. He is retired from a successful business career, but has remained active in his community through his church, the Rotary Club, the rehab Center and youth baseball programs. His philosophy on the value of sports is that “Sports afford you the opportunity of association with some very tine people.”
Myron “Mike” Winch | 1959 | Inducted 1988
Recognized as the youngest CEO in the history of Findlay YMCA, Mike Winch has been with the Y organization for over 25 years. He has earned numerous honors, including the YMCA National World Service Evans Award and the National Service Above Self Award. He has served his community well, actively involved in his church, the March of Dimes and the Findlay Awareness Project. Mike is a member of the Findlay City Recreation Commission and the United Way Speaker Bureau – a position he has held for the past nine years. He has been recognized for his community involvement by receiving the Jaycees Distinguished Service Award and the Top Ten Young Men of Ohio Jaycee Award. At Findlay College, Mike was chosen MVP two of the four years he lettered in baseball and played and coached basketball. He has remained active in sports, serving as an official for 25 years in baseball, basketball, volleyball, and softball. In commenting on his philosophy of the value of sports, Mike states “Like is competitive; sports are competitive – keep both in proper perspective… everyone needs to be a winner in his/her own right; your achievement should be not less than your level of ability.”
Harry J. Barnhart- Coach/Athletic Director | 1927-1932 | Inducted 1989
His commitment to the development of a student’s spirit, mind and body was a mission that Coach Barnhart shared with Findlay College. He came to Findlay after serving as head coach at the Alta Social Settlement of Cleveland and as athletic director at Ashland High School. While in Cleveland his teams won six city championships in football, basketball and baseball in two years. Through his influence and efforts in Ashland, the North Central Ohio High School Conference was formed. At Findlay College, Coach Barnhart served as athletic director for five years and was head coach in football, basketball, wrestling, boxing, hockey and rifle teams. He firmly believed in the importance of a strong athletic program, while also maintaining a clear balance with the college’s academic goals. In the 1932 edition of the Argus, Coach Barnhart clearly stated his philosophy on the value of sports; “We will leave no stone unturned to helping those we come in contact with to become themselves the most perfect development of manhood – an athlete, a scholar and a Christian gentleman.”
Jerry Brown | 1954 | Inducted 1989
Retired after a 30 year career in education, Jerry currently works at the Hyde Park Golf and Country Club in Cincinnati. While in education, he served for 15 years as a principal and 15 years as a teacher and coach. “Jer” was a three-year letter winner in baseball and basketball at Findlay College. He was captain of the basketball team, scored 856 career points and played in three NAIA tournaments in Kansas City, MO. As he philosophizes on the value of sports, Jerry comments that “Sports teach one how to win graciously and lose with dignity.”
Charles Parker | 1972 | Inducted 1989
Coaching basketball has proven to be a successful career choice for Charlie Parker. As an assistant at BGSU, he helped lead the team to one MAC championship, as well as two second place finishes and one NIT appearance. As an assistant at FC, he was also the head track and cross country coach. While in that position, Charlie was named HBCC Cross Country Coach of the Year, NAIA Regional Track and Field Coach of the Year and was twice named NAIA District Track and Field Coach of the Year. His largest number of successes come as head varsity men’s basketball coach at Wayne State University. Under Charlie’s leadership, the teams earned numerous GLIAC titles or runner up positions; appeared in three NCAA-II National Championships; set school records in a number of areas and had many players honored at the conference, district and regional levels. Charlie was twice named GLIAC Coach of the Year and as the Michigan 1984 Coach of the Year. He is currently an associate basketball coach at the University of Southern California. As an athlete at Findlay College, Charlie was named in both the HBCC All-Conference and the NAIA All-District basketball teams; set both school and conference hurdle records and was one of only five athletes to participate in two national championships in the same year. He was also active in various campus organizations and named to the Dean’s List, “Who’s Who” and “Outstanding College Athlete of the United States.”
Duane R. Seiling | 1968 | Inducted 1989
A dedicated educator for over 20 years, Duane has served as a teacher, guidance counselor, principal and superintendent. He has also coached varsity boys and girls cross country, varsity track and junior high basketball. He is past president of the Old Fort Local Education Association, past Membership Chairman of the Northwest Ohio Supervisors’ Association and has served on various education panels and advisory boards. His community has also benefited from Duane’s commitment in its youth as he is active in United Way, is a registered track official and is a school consultant for the Lincoln Center – a substance abuse agency. Duane earned three letters in Oiler football. He was twice named NAIA District 22 first team defensive tackle, was an NAIA Honorable Mention Little All-American and was named the Oilers’ Most Valuable Player as a senior. As to his philosophy on the value of sports, Duane states “I believe sports serve as a valuable ally in developing such qualities as leadership, dedication, self-discipline, cooperation, self-esteem and responsibility while allowing us to appreciate the various talents of others.”
Robert B. Thomas | 1957 | Inducted 1989
Twenty years as a high school teacher and coach have followed Bob’s days at Findlay College. He has coached track, wrestling and football, and three of his football teams won league titles. Bob is currently the Accounting/Computing teacher at Knox County J.V.S. in Ohio, and the wrestling coach in his home town. He has chaired his local Zoning Appeals Board for 18 years, is a Past Master and education officer of Masonic Lodge #86, is an 18 year trustee of the Johnstown United Methodist Church and has worked with the Boy Scouts. At Findlay, “Bruno” played football and wrestled for four years. His prowess on the football field earned him the honors of Honorable Mention Little All-American Tackle and co-captain of the Mid-Ohio League. He also played tackle on the Army’s championship football team at Ft. Knox. Bob’s philosophy on the value of sports is that “Sports should provide every person the opportunity to become part of a combative game stressing competition, initiative and imagination. It will be enjoyed with its infinite possibilities for thrilling moments which will form cherished and never-to-be-forgotten memories.”
Jerry Wasserman | 1963 | Inducted 1989
A member of the Findlay College football, basketball, wrestling, baseball and track teams. Jerry was especially known for his performance on the football and track teams. Jerry was especially known for his performance on the football field. He was a four-year letterman, won All-Mid-Ohio and All-Ohio honors, was named All-NAIA District 21 as a senior and played in the East-West game and the Gem Bowl in Erie, PA. his successes have continued in his coaching career over the 25 years in Ohio high schools. In wrestling, he has coached numerous league and district champions and runners up, and in 1978-79 he earned the F.J. Egner Coaching Award. Jerry’s football teams have been equally successful, winning six conference titles, an AP and UPI state runner-up title, and two state play-off berths. He has also been named Southwest District Coach of the Year three times, AP All-District Coach of the Year twice and the 1988-89 Ohio Division III Coach of the Year. He is a past member of the Lions and Elks Clubs. Jerry’s philosophy on the value of sports is that “Sports provide experiences in dealing with success and failure and working together for a common goal, thus preparing youth to take their places in a competitive society.”