Dennis J. Ganahl

Posted on: Nov 11, 2024 at 4:33 AM

Posted on: Oct 04, 2024 at 8:35 PM

There are two people who have done more for William Cullen McBride High School than anyone else. There was William Cullen McBride, our benefactor, and Larry Porschen. They are at the top of the pyramid. The rest of us fall somewhere that leads to the bottom. Where Mr. McBride gave the money to build a school a school which produced thousands of successful men through the love and support of Marianists clergy and committed lay teachers, Larry insured our legacy. Without Larry Porschen, McBride High School would’ve been forgotten over 50 years ago. I have a mantra for life, It is “if it doesn’t matter in 100 years, it’s not important.“ Thanks Larry, for making McBride matter!”

Jack Roberson was my Seventh and Eighth grade basketball coach at St. Kevin grade school. In fact, Jack coached the boys' Eighth grade basketball team for at least 10 years, which included lots of Micks, and we always had a winning record. He knew how to get the best out of every boy on his team. However, his trademark was getting technicals called on him during a game. I remember one game when I got a technical called on me for arguing with the referee. Jack pulled me out of the game and pulled me over to him and looked me straight in the eyes. He said, "Danny-boy, that's what he always called me, I'm the only one on this team that gets technical files called on him." Jack was a classic. He fixed TVs and other electronics on the side and he owned a red and white Ford cargo van. He'd pack all 12 boys and maybe some cheerleading girls from our class, into the back of the van to go to the game. It didn't have any seats in the back and all of us would be sitting on the floor laugh and having a good time while Jack drove us to the game. Jack was always fun and had a big laugh and a twinkle in his eye. He also had a pinball machine in his basement which he let us play. After most Saturday games, he'd invite all of the players and  some of the kid's parents over for a party and a barbecue. It was never fancy, but it was always fun with lots of kids running in and out of the house. Nothing ever bothered Jack. He was a great man, and came to all of the Throwback games until he passed. .

Posted on: Nov 11, 2023 at 4:33 AM

Posted on: Jun 28, 2023 at 8:35 AM

Happy birthday Bob! I hope it’s your best year ever. Let us know when you get to Stl and we can put together a lunch. A dozen of us meet once a month.

Posted on: Nov 11, 2022 at 4:33 AM

Where the hell are you? Mike Ruggeri and I want to see you!

Posted on: Jun 29, 2022 at 3:55 PM

Happy Birthday, Bob, hope you're doing well!

Hello Denny, hope you're doing well. Happy Birthday!

Posted on: Apr 04, 2022 at 3:02 PM

Congratulations, Jerry, for being inducted into the Hall of Fame 2022! Every time I've been to a McBride event, I've always seen you there. Well deserved!

Although our paths crossed often in the halls, I didn't know you well, but you were always smiling. I was just looking at your photo today to post for our upcoming reunion emils, David. I'm sorry we didn't know sooner.  God bless you and your famly!

Thanks for the memories, Mark. I didn't know Wayne well, but he was always a nice guy and popular. I did see his Mom maybe 15 years later, and when she mentioned Wayne she cried. I also think about all of the other guys who have died much too young. Sad and tragic.

I hope you're doing well and staying safe. Would you like to attend our 50th reunion next summer? Pencil in the weekend of June 4, 5 and 6. I'm sure Bob Becherer and Bob Hanna will attend or we can ask them to stay home if you prefer. Smile.

Posted on: Nov 11, 2020 at 4:33 AM

Jim Graffigna was my Khoury League baseball coach. He was great. He taught me how to be a catcher and made me feel great about myself. His son Tom was the pitcher and I was the catcher. We won our league championship every year and we were selected All Stars. Our team's sponsor "Suzie's Brand Tomatoes" was featured in one of my books. I grew up with his sons Jim, Tom, Vic, Bob and Will. He also had a daughter named Melissa. I remember seeing his McBride sports letters one day when I was visiting at his house. I also remember Mr. Graffigna making us fudge one night to watch the TV show Twelve O'Clock High. He died young of a heart attack I believe. Thanks Jim!

Happy birthday Denny. I hope you have a fun day. I had my son home for the weekend celebrating his mutual birthday. I told him about both of you guys having the same birthday.

Hello Tim, sorry I missed your birthday but it was great seeing you at the Throwback. I hope your have a great year!