Graduates and Teachers Reunite After Half-Century

Deer Park graduating Class of 1971, chose to celebrate their 50th class reunion by inviting their former high school teachers to a reunion banquet. Six retired teachers were able to attend. Altogether, these teachers spent over 200 years educating students in the district. Pictured below left to right are Mary Lou Bunn, Curt Frunz, and Bob Schroeder. In the front row are Don Fries, Rex Schimke, and Estel Harvey.

Despite the passage of time, these students still share a special bond with an apparent respect for their educators. Graduates from the Class of ‘71 are now senior citizens themselves; even so, they were reluctant to refer to their former teachers by their first names.

While many things have changed in the last 50 years, it is apparent from the picture below that some things have not!

Photos By LJ Chamberlain

Featured Photo Caption: Deer Park High School Graduation Class of 1971 holds 50th Reunion

Bob Schroeder, Class of 1971, Curt Frunz, Deer Park High School, Don Fries, Estel Harvey, Mary Lou Bunn, Rex Schimke

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Abigail Joy Hill

June 20, 2025

Abigail Joy Hill, born July 31st, 2003, was tragically killed in a head on collision on Hwy 395 on Father’s Day June 15th, 2025. She is survived by her father (Dan Hill), mother (Theresa Hill), and 5 siblings (Teresa Polensky, Brett Hill, Elizabeth Moshe, Carissa Curtis, and Jason Hill), as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews. She will be severely missed by all!

Long-time Deer Park resident, 1950 – 2006

June 18, 2025

The two most important things to Jannis were her relationship to Jesus Christ as her personal Savior and her family. Jannis was born in Oakesdale, Washington on April 14, 1928, and passed away peacefully in Spokane on May 26, 2025. She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert A and Edna (Hall) Crow, her husband M Dean Snook, and her two siblings Robert (Mac) Crow and Jerrene Holling. Jannis learned hard work and gratitude for family values as she helped cook and clean for the large farm crews connected to dry land wheat farming of the 1930s-1940s. She attended WSU (known as WSC at the time) and completed her BS in Home Economics plus her BA in Education in 1950-51.

Young Voices Shine Home Link Writing Contest

April 17, 2025

Home Link recently held their annual short story writing competition. More than twenty 3rd-12th grade kids participated this year. In a competition that encourages six-trait story telling, but welcomes writers of all experience levels to tell a tale.

Library Campaigns Feed Minds and Fight Hunger

April 16, 2025

This April, the Spokane County Library District is turning the page on two pressing issues, literacy and hunger, by launching Library Giving Day and the Bites & Books food drive. These twin campaigns aim to nourish both minds and bodies, ensuring every child in the community has access to books and basic nutrition.

Gerald Ray “Jerry” Knight, 1933-2025

April 15, 2025

Gerald Ray “Jerry” Knight, born November 23, 1933, in Spokane, Washington, passed away peacefully on April 14, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and love. Jerry was the beloved son of Albert James Knight and Nora Marie Mack Knight. He spent his formative years in Dover, Idaho, and Usk, Washington, alongside his little sister, Chrystal, to whom he was a life-long protector.

April 16 Open House: City Of Deer Park Seeks Input

April 15, 2025

The City of Deer Park is inviting residents to an open house to provide input on long-term plans for growth, transportation, housing, small agricultural animals, and land use. The event is part of a periodic update to the city’s Comprehensive Plan as state law requires.

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Miss Deer Park 2025 Crowns Its Winners

Miss Deer Park Scholarship Program 2025 has crowned the new royalty representing Deer Park in the coming year. It was a testament to the dedication and perseverance of Deer Park’s young women, highlighting their hard work, determination, and achievements.

March 15, 2025

This Saturday! Miss Deer Park 2025

The Miss Deer Park Scholarship Program 2025 promises an evening of glamour, talent, and community. It’s not just a competition but a celebration of the collective achievements and aspirations of Deer Park’s young women.

March 12, 2025

Deer Park