One big family at St. Joseph School reunion

WEST MILFORD — What a reunion! St. Joseph held a school reunion with an Oktoberfest theme on Saturday, Oct. 22, which drew about 120 people, including 13 members of the Kitchell Family.
Edward and Catherine Kitchell sent all 10 of their children to St. Joseph School; in addition four of their grandchildren attended. Thirteen members of the Kitchell family came to the reunion and had a great time.
Some of the familiar faces at the reunion included five teachers:
Judith Genthon – 3rd grade teacher 1965 to 1986;
Sr. Maureen Dunne – principal from 1970 to 1977;
Sr. Mary Elizabeth Davies - 1st grade teacher - 1975 to 1982;
Linda Kostenko – 7th,8th grade and principal - 1980 to 2001;
Barbara Bordine - 5th grade teacher - 1987 to 2006.
Sixth graduates attended the event, some traveling from out of state, including as far as Kentucky.
The Reunion Committee went with an Oktoberfest theme because St. Joseph School opened their doors on Oct. 1, 1956 and remained open for almost 50 years until the school closed in June 2006.
"We decided to celebrate the life that was present for so many years in the school building and therefore invited not only former students and teachers but parents as well," according to Mary Beth Ferriola, a member of the committee. "So many parents spent many hours volunteering or fundraising or whatever was needed to aid the school."
The reunion was a great opportunity for the parish to reminisce about former days, see old friends, browse through photos and memorabilia and ultimately be together again in the school building like one big family.
For more photos, go to westmilfordmessenger.com.