It’s been a few years since Bob Regan graduated from Mineral Point High School.
72 in fact.
Back when he earned his diploma in 1943, Bob could’ve never imagined he’d someday be the Homecoming parade marshal.
But that is exactly what he and his wife, Helen, will serve as tomorrow night as the parade heads down High Street at 6 pm.
Helen is no stranger to the Mineral Point School District either, having taught 6th grade for 23 years.
Bob comes from a long line of Pointers. His mother, Alice DeMuth, was a member of the Class of 1912 and his siblings all graduated wearing the Blue and White as well: Eileen 1934, Harry 1938, Francis 1939, Lucille 1946, Gerry 1948, Josephine 1950, Bill 1954, and Kathleen 1955.
Bob’s nine children also graduated from MPHS: Mary, Larry, Marlene, Kathy, Vicki, Christine, Michelle, Dan, and Julie.
Homecoming 1942 saw Marian Pittz reign as Homecoming Queen.
“At the football field, we had a bonfire and a snake dance around the fire that then went downtown,” said Bob. “Once we got there, we were treated to a free show at the Opera House. Of course, we also had the football game and the dance.”
“That football season was a good one because we beat Dodgeville twice,” he laughed. “That made our year.”
Bob was on the football team but joked he was likely used more as a tackling dummy because he hadn’t been out for the team in previous years.
He was also active in the FFA, and the FFA singing quartet that took second in the state.
“We sang all over,” he said. “That was a big thing because it was rare to get out of town. The war was on and gas was rationed.”
Bob enlisted in the Armed Forces for World War II following graduation.
“It was well known we’d be going to fight after graduation. I remember Dr. Morgan even had an obstacle course set up for us to practice on at school to get us ready,” he said.
Helen graduated from Argyle but says she has fond Homecoming memories of her own, especially being a part of the MP staff for decades.
“Everyone seems to be happy and have a good time,” she says. “The town comes together and gets behind the school. It’s always so special for the kids on court, too.”
Both Bob and Helen agree it is an honor to be selected as parade marshal.
“We were really surprised and flattered when we found out,” she said.
Make sure to give them an extra smile and wave in the parade and thank them for their Pointer Pride through the years.