Marcia was a vivacious, key figure in my early years in Kabul. I had no inkling that years later she would become a significant part of what we started calling the KIHS / AISK Reunion Committee, which accumulated names and addresses and started publishing the early Scorpion newsletters and Directory. She and her husband John Bachmann worked hard in our mailing operation at my house and helped Rich Owens and I plan and stage the first reunions in the 1980s. Her illness and untimely death were extremely tragic, and I still miss her. RIP, friend.
I only know that Dana came down with a mysterious illness and was flown to Tehran for treatment, where she passed away within a couple of days. She was full of life and laughter and I'll remember her always. I wish I knew more details, but perhaps someone else can fill those in.
Dana had wisdom in her eyes,
and was destined for great things.
I wish I could
have known her better.
From Louis Tomaino on April 6th, 2020
I have always thought of Dana as a very special person. She, a number of us Peace Corps Volunteers and others spent a wonderful summer of 1971 in the Hazarajat (Yakaolang) working with people in the Medical Assistance Program (MAP). A tremendous loss for all of us.
From Dan Bonnin on December 14th, 2016
I don't know who wrote the bit about Dana, but I thank you.
Dana Bonnin was my big sister. Indeed, she was full of life and laughter. And music, and social conscience, and activism, and so much more.
Dana was killed by a rare strain of ecoli. She became ill in the summer of 1972, and was medevaced to Beruit where she died after about a week.
Miss you, Diane! You were so smart, talented, and full of energy. You were taken from us much too soon. I will light a candle for you at the reunion and wish you were there.
Wonderful fun friend, I crossed paths with Chris in college and in Haiti. We were childhood friends. He is missed
From Molly Alexander on June 21st, 2017
Remember the 4 of us? You, Peggy, Tom, and me. You taught me so much, Bunder, about life and how to push forward.
From Savi Fitch on May 19th, 2015
Dear Chris - you were such a fun, embracing person. You enjoyed pop songs from Indian movies. I remember you and Rick Miller playing on sitar and tabla for an Indian festival day at school. You were great. Thanks.
"This photo must be from HIS high school days, Ankara or Kabul. He knew Robbie Mahan at the Army school in Turkey. Among his best friends in Kabul were Rick Ricks and Rich Selby., and was good friends with the Duncan Twins."
I am just learning of Margery's passing, so sad. We were best of friends; she lived right behind our house. Guess I was lucky to see at the reunion way back in San Antonio. RIP.
Karen
From vickie owens on June 28th, 2012
Really sorry to hear about Margery's passing. I'm not sure where she lived at the time of her passing, but would like to read her obituary. As aways, my thoughts and prayers are with her family. Now she can reunite with other alumni in the great reunion place.
From Jana O'Neal on June 25th, 2012
A really fun and wonderful person -- I miss the jokes and random emails Margie used to send to my work email inbox. I only became acquainted through the AISK.org site and never met her in person. A sad loss ---
Ken was a neighbor in Karte-Seh, a couple years older than me. My mother had brought over an electronic organ (God bless the embassy moving allowance) and I can remember Ken coming over to play it from time to time, which was how I first heard the song "More" from the movie Mondo Cane. He played pretty well. Decades later, I moved to Houston and was still somewhat involved in the compilation of the Scorpion Directory. Ken's address surfaced, he was living in Dallas. I got on the phone and we had several long conversations which I think we both enjoyed. Found out he was working in the software industry. We talked about getting together sometime, but he died before that could happen. So, life is short, you have to seize the moment, and remember your friends. I became a musical person and once again, I can't hear "More" without thinking of the guy who first taught it to me. RIP, buddy.
I really miss Eddie. At the time in Afghanistan I did not realize how much I had come to love him.
I will never forget one day many years later when I felt his spirit flyby me. At that time I had no idea of what had happened. I know that it was his final farewell.
I look forward to seeing him once again in heaven.
From David Dustin on June 29th, 2019
Eddie. What a modest, sweet guy. I remember bumping into his dad in the coffee shop the first morning at the Galactic Reunion in Colorado Springs. He knew I had been friends with Eddie, and immediately teared up. Wouldn't let go of me for minutes trying to compose himself. I couldn't imagine his pain. RIP to a beautiful soul.
From Wendy Blumhagen on August 7th, 2013
We were so close in high School! If I could have found you later I would have married you. I wish i could have been there for you when you became so depressed you commited suicide. It was so needless...but i know you are enjoying the wonder of heaven and that we will meet again in the hereafter.
Michael Foster - extravagant history teacher - lover of all things art. To visit his home was to visit a treasury of his love - art hanging on all the walls and historical military figures throughtout his home. He was a patron to art causes in his hometown of Astoria Oregon.
What a wonderful human being and teacher. Remember how excited my pals the McClures were when the deal was clinched and their family friend from Oregon Mike Foster was to join the AISK faculty. I think Tim McClure (their dad) helped that deal along. They didn't exaggerate his many stellar qualities. He didn't seem that much older than some of us were, but he was FUN and TALENTED in so many ways. I remember his penchant for wearing smocks and clogs (good choices, Foz, I later discovered in my life) but I remember in particular what an excellent history teacher he was. The seeds he planted in that discipline stuck with me and ultimately that became my major in college. He also staged some of the most remarkable dramatic productions I could imagine, especially remembering the fun we had putting on ALICE IN WONDERLAND. I got to be the Mad Hatter, a moment in my life that I particularly enjoyed. The McClure brothers info got me to write to him before he died, and I found that small act comforting, although I would never meet him again. RIP, Foz.
From Andy Mcclure on May 6th, 2017
Michael was a truly gifted and unique individual. His wit, intellect and gentle (mostly) determination as a teacher had a lot to do with how I learned to be a "Human". I first met him when he was in college, circa 1959 or '60 when he was the sole caretaker at Fort Clatsop, before it became a National Monument. He visited us in Jordan before we, and he, went to Kabul. I only experienced Michael as a teacher during the last few months I lived in Afghanistan. To say that I had a "rude awakening" and that I found his class "challenging" would not be sufficient! His field trips were many and always full of both fun and wisdom. Does anyone remember Herat, Ghazni (with "tinkle stops") and Nepal? I was with him in Kashmir when MLK was assassinated and we spent hours talking about it while relaxing in a houseboat on Dal Lake.
Because we took our home leave in Oregon, not far from Michael's home, we became friends with his sister, his parents and even several cousins. I stayed at his house in Astoria just before showing up at college in Portland. We made blackberry jam under the expert guidance of his mom.
He spent most of his salary in Kabul on antiques, which he could spot with an unerring eye. That, plus smart investments, allowed him to open an antique shop in Astoria, to finance his mansion on the hill, and to become a leading member of the Oregon Art Commission, a Director of several well known corporations, and a beloved member of the community of Astoria. I am STILL meeting people from Astoria that knew Michael from Astoria High, his shop and his other ventures in the Life After Kabul.
Just a few years ago, despite infirmity and oncoming age, he designed and executed a wonderful display of my mother's life at her Memorial. For that I will always be grateful.
Michael never had children of his own. If genius is genetic, we are all much poorer for his passing. In another way, we are ALL his children, whether we knew him in Kabul, Astoria or elsewhere. We are much the richer for having known this amazing man.
Miss you, Lisa! You were a good sister, mother, wife, and a compassionate ICU nurse. I will light a candle for you at the reunion and wish you were there.
Lisa was my girlfriend before I understood that the most important part of that concept is the part about being Friends. I was able to reconnect and make amends for my errors while she was healthy, happy and enjoying her life in Spokane. I got to know her daughter Jamie, who has become a true gem in her own right.
i will always consider Lisa to be "the one that got away". If there is a heaven, and I'm lucky enough to be admitted, I know Lisa will be there, too. If reincarnation is possible, I fervently wish that I will be lucky enough to live a life graced with her presence again.
Bill 'Coach' Heim was a talented athlete, coach and mentor who understood that the young people of AISK needed more than PE instruction, but also leadership, mentoring and an open mind. It was a difficult time for Coach in 1972-73 but he was there for those who sought him out. I learned an awful lot about putting in the work from Coach, and I was not alone. Years later, in early 1999 I found him teaching in the Bay Area and met him for an evening, mostly to say thanks. I'm happy I saw him again, as an adult, and was able to acknowledge his contributions.
Astonished and saddened to hear about Rudy passing away. I knew Rudy from 3rd through 12th grades (1967-1976) and remember him best for his athleticism and guitar playing (Blue Sharks and Joint Venture I and II). He's been breaking into my thoughts in recent days and I had no idea why, until now. We were on the same teams (football, basketball and softball) during our senior year where I learned he was a strong, quitet leader on the field who worked hard to set the standard. I recall he lived in Switzerland for some time and had several children, but would love to know more. Best wishes to his surviving family. Rudy touched many lives and his passing saddens me so. Rudy, that snap to you on the winning field goal against AISK teachers (Oct. 1975) was a little high, but I'll just have to tell you about it later.
Robin had such an interesting life after AISK. He lived quite an adventure in Berlin for many years and was married to a unique wild and crazy woman. I visted him in DC numerous time over the years in the early 2000ands. He loved his Victorian walk up and his dog. I still miss him after all these years. Tim
Chris was a tremendous teacher and sportsman, coach of the softball team (had played varsity ball at Indiana I think, an awesome batter), teacher of geography, had written his master's dissertation on fences, loved all things about Afghanistan. At the time of his egregiously untimely death, he was on the verge of starting the Institute of Afghanistan Studies at the University of Nebraska, and was in league with Tom Goutierre, who had been a close friend in Kabul toward that goal. I had been out to visit, stayed with him and Sandy, and was preparing to transfer there to join that program when I got the terrible news. My life would have changed in a lot of ways, I suppose, but I remember just sitting, stunned, when I learned about his death. Don't know why, but I remember how much he loved the singer Glenn Yarbrough ("Baby the Rain Must Fall") and Ricky Nelson. To this day, hearing anything by Ricky Nelson makes me think fondly of my friend and mentor Chris Jung, his widow Sandy, and their kids. RIP
Sandra was a sweetheart of a girl. She was in my 5th and 6th grade class at AISK and we had a childhood crush on one another. I didn't know I liked her that much until we started lining up in gym class so that we could be square dance partners and could hold hands during the dances that required hand holding. She'd blush a little and smile that sweet smile and we were in crush heaven until gym class was over. We spoke once on the phone after an AISK reunion (San Francisco?) that I couldn't get to. She lived a very giving and caring life and I know she's missed by all her loved ones - and her childhood square dance partner.
For my wonderful brother, Raja, who was in AISK the longest of us Nagarajans and who continues to be a part of our lives in memories of AISK and Afghanistan. (AISK Class of 1976)
Raja was a loving son to his parents and great brother to his sisters and a dear friend to his many friends and loved by all that met him. He went to college in Twin Falls, ID and then went back to India and had a wonderful job and friends who felt proud to call him friend. He sadly died riding his motorbike one night at the age of 23 as always high on life and cheerful and happy. We miss him greatly and cherish his memories.
Paula (Paola) and I became friends at the Interschool Meet in Lahore in 1972 ,I was a student at M.C.S. in Murree Pakistan she was a special person , I remember her laughter,how full of life she was. We were going to meet again at the next school meet, sadly that could not happen. As you can see all these years later she still lives with me in my memories. You were so sweet to me pretty girl. I miss you still and think of you often.
From Saied Assef on May 29th, 2017
I remember May 7, 1973 too well. I was spending the night at Chris Brown's house on Dar-ul-aman when we heard a big noise outside. Chris and I rushed outside to find our friends Molly Alexander, Laurie Fleihr, and Paula Onori each thrown from the car and severly injured. The abject terror of that moment has remained with me for ever. Unfortunately Paula's injuries were too severe and we lost her. She was a beautiful fun loving girl that was lost before her life had blossomed. Her loss was so tragic for all who knew her.
From Dragan Majdanac on April 19th, 2015
To my dear friend Paola from Damascus, you're always in a certain way in my thoughts. What else is there to say now but that I always remember you.
From Molly Alexander on January 28th, 2015
We lost Paola and her cheerful smile on May 8, 1974. After returning to Kabul from the hospital in Weisbaden, Germany, my Mom took me to the foreigner's cemetary where Paola was temporarily buried. I laid flowers on her grave and sat there for a long time. Paola is in my heart forever.
From gary lanza on November 9th, 2014
Paula was a very sweet girl and everyone liked her. We were good friends and when i heard the news i was devistaded. I couldnt believe she was no longer with us. To this day i always think of her.
From mukesh murara on February 5th, 2014
as per hindu religion we believe in reincarnation i am sure she is back with us in one form or the other
From Tna Sani on August 26th, 2013
I remember Paula so well. She was stunning, full of life. I remember I arrived at school as usual in the morning only to learn about the devastating fatal road accident that Paula had had the night before, and that too on the road that led to our school ..... at our ages, death was not something we associated with ourselves or our friends and school mates... We had a memorial service for Paula at school and for that day, the school was over. Memories of Paula and how we lost her will stay stay with me, as being the single most traumatic
e xperience I had had till that age. God bless you Paula, and may your family stay blessed.
I taught in AISK in 1980 when Father Panigati was also teaching there. He taught my second son math. He was a kind, gentle and compassionate person, with an amazing gift for languages, and for making people feel comfortable and at home with him. He was very hospitable and loved to invite people to his home and cook 'spaghettis' or 'raviolis' for them.
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From Jo Asnani on November 24th, 2014
Fondly remember Fr. Panigati from the days when he headed the small catholic school in Kabul, where I was a student. So kind and selfless a soul was he. RIP Fr. Panigati. Some of the best lessons I have learnt in "Being Humane" I have learnt from in you. Thank you dear Fr. Panifati
From John Fort on December 14th, 2013
Father Panigati taught me some Latin but more wisdom. If anyone is in heaven it is Father Panigato.
From Jana O'Neal on June 25th, 2012
Father Panigati exemplified the best of the human spirit both as a person and a Catholic priest.
JoAn Ramsay was a music teacher at AISK from 1968-1969. She taught all of the students including High School Chorus and Music Appreciation. She organized appearances for singing groups and prepared them for all school musicals. Her love for music was spread throughout the whole world by giving so much of herself to those who loved it too. She was delighted to see everyone at the Colorado Springs reunion. To the Class of 1969, she sang "The Impossible Dream" that sent us all off to our adventures.
My brother James loved his time in Kabul and AISK. He really enjoyed playing on the baseball and basketball Scorpion teams. His life back in the USA was never an easy one, but he was a good single father and so proud of his daughter Candice. I will always be eternally grateful that he was able to care for our mother as she transitioned this life. He was a real blessing to her. His departure from this earth was of his chosing and his unique style; quiet and stalwart, the way he lived his life. RIP until we meet again.
In loving memory of my brother Sam, who left us way too soon. His zest for life and his ready wit were always apparent, and his days in Afghanistan were among the happiest of his life. He was a wonderful brother, a caring father, and a friend to many. He is sorely missed.
Just getting around to this.... I never laughed so much (and still do) when you made "chicken Sandwiches" out of the un-hatched eggs in Gillette's Bio Class and handed them out to the underclassboys/girls..... Mayo included with the beaks and chicken legs sticking out of the margins of the crust of the bread!!!
My brother Fahim Sani aka Butch, passed away, but remains warm in our hearts. He was a hell of a guy, warm and friendly. Butch was the class of 1973 and graduated from AISK. Amongst his best friends in school were Manjeet Singh, Mukesh Murrara. Butch was a wonderful sportsperson so was quite popular with Mr. Heim, our PE teacher, and also Dr Richard Krajczar.mi,have posted his photographs in the AISK Album
The best teammate anyone can ask for. Always there for you, level-headed, ready to give a helping hand anytime. Gonna miss ya' brother! RIP
Jose (jody/Hose-as Mr. Webb wrote my name)
From David Dustin on June 29th, 2019
Remember the very moment I first met Kent, out on the football field at the end of a day. Was struck by how his Maine accent reminded me of my own roots in northern New England. What a great guy he was. Had been so happy to see him again at the first AISK reunion in the mid-80s. Miss you, Kent. Godspeed...
From John Steitz on March 28th, 2019
I was saddened to learn of Kent's passing as I relished his friendship and the times I spent with him and his family. Bless them all!
Peggy was a life force in Kabul - all who knew her knew Peggy to be straight forward, no nonsense and full of fun. She was sister to Bob and Tom Hooper. She married right out of high school and was an RN during her adult life. God rest her soul.
You were so warm and friendly on my first day of school at AISK. Remember when Dave and I drove from Duluth to Fargo to visit you at the University of North Dakota? We talked and partied in your dorm room until early morning. I think of you often, especially on our shared birthday.
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