"Peanuts" Lowery worked at the Ko-Op in the Mid - Sixties.

Kenneth "Ken" Irl Lowry

Nov. 21, 1948 - Dec. 28, 2022

TOLEDO - Kenneth "Ken" Irl Lowry, age 74, of Toledo, IL, passed away at 12:28 p.m., Wednesday, December 28, 2022, at Sarah Bush Lincoln Health Center in Mattoon, IL.

A funeral service in his honor will be held at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, January 4, 2023, at Mitchell-Jerdan Funeral Home, 1200 Wabash Avenue, Mattoon, IL, 61938. Reverend Ron Dickinson will officiate. The visitation will be held from 12:00 p.m. until the time of service at the funeral home.

Ken was born on November 21, 1948, to the late Donald Thomas and Ruth Elizabeth (Haverstock) Lowry. He married Mary Ann Rochat on November 21, 2003, in Toledo, IL; she survives and resides in Toledo, IL.

He is also survived by two daughters: Alisha Rose Lowry and significant other, Matt Boruff of Greenup, IL, Kerry Ilene Lowry of Teutopolis, IL; one brother, Chuck Lowry of Newbern, TN; one sister, Carol Lowry and significant other, Jerry VanBellehem of Mattoon, IL; five grandchildren: Jaykob, Julia, Emma, Ian, and Orion. He was preceded in death by one brother, Thomas Lowry.

Ken was a member of the basketball team at Stewardson-Strasburg High School where he graduated in 1966. He joined the United States Air Force and proudly served his country from 1967-1973. After his honorable release he accepted a letter carrier position at the United States Postal Service in Mattoon, IL, and retired in 2003, after many years of dedicated service. He was a member of the American Legion of Neoga, IL, and the Eagle's Club of Mattoon, IL.

Embracing his lifelong love of music, Ken enjoyed singing and playing guitar in several of the local bands. He also had a passion for gardening and took great pride in canning and freezing his produce. His sense of humor was often ignited as he shared the proceeds of his labor with friends and family. Many times, the recipient was entertained by his quick wit and banter regarding the goods.

A dedicated family man, Ken exhibited an incredible adoration for his wife, children, and grandchildren. His memory and the positive values and character he instilled will live on.

Memorials in his honor may be made to Autism Acceptance Cumberland County, 649B County Road 1450 E, Toledo, IL, 62468; or Peace Meal, C/O Sarah Bush Lincoln Health Foundation, 1000 Health Center Drive, Mattoon, IL, 61938.

Jim Mizener Died, November 2020

A Ko-Op connection died from complications of Covid19. Jim Mizener, Larry's younger brother, lived upstairs with us at the Ko-Op, and he worked at Walt's. His obituary:

James William Mizener
Born: October 8, 1942
Died: November 14, 2020

Jim Mizener, District 99's biggest fan, went home to Jesus on November 14. At 78 years young, he died of complications from internal bleeding, after battling COVID-19 for 14 days at Good Samaritan Hospital, fighting to the last and even making a "comeback" from double pneumonia the day before his homegoing. Jim was born on October 8, 1942 in a little farmhouse in Lisle and lived his entire life in the Downers Grove area. He was born to William and Thelma Mizener and was the 2nd youngest of seven siblings: Floyd, Larry, Loretta, (who also died from COVID-19 along with her beloved husband Stan), Carol, and Verna, and Judi, the youngest.

Jim attended Downers Grove North (DGN) for one year before moving to the newly constructed Lisle High School, graduating in 1960. He was thrilled to attend Eastern Illinois University where his older brother had attended, and he was extremely involved in the sports scene in Charleston.

He married his wife Diane Goddard, also a teacher at Downers Grove South High School (DGS), in 1967. They were happily married over 53 years. As an architect, Jim designed the house they lived in for 52 years on Dunham Road. He was the proud father of daughters Becky and Laurie and loved spending time with his granddaughters, who are athletes, artists and musicians in North Carolina and Colorado.

He dedicated his entire career to DGS and later to DGN as well. He began as the drafting/architecture teacher at DGS in 1965 and also served as the head of the Industrial Technology Department. Immediately upon retirement, he went back to work at DGS as an aide. He also taught architecture classes at the College of DuPage and worked as a freelance architect together with dear friend and fellow DGS teacher Dave Claus.

Jim worked at DGS for fifty-five years as a teacher, department chair, and public address announcer for hundreds of sporting events. His influence and guidance led many of his students to become architects throughout the Midwest. He is remembered by alumni and current students of the school as the "Voice of the Mustangs," his voice as much a part of football games at DGS as the fall air and the sound of the marching band. He announced every event possible in District 99 and even beyond. Always wanting to help on his "days off," he also served as a volunteer at First United Methodist Church of Downers Grove where he was often seen helping in the parking lot and greeting worshippers.

Jim was a beloved figure in Downers Grove. He possessed a unique ability to make one feel like he was a lifelong friend within minutes of meeting him. He was instrumental in founding the DGS Athletic Hall of Fame to which he was inducted in 2005. This was an honor he cherished and one he bestowed upon dozens of former DGS athletes and coaches. He was also inducted into the Illinois Basketball Coaches Hall of Fame. Jim helped secure sponsorship for a new electronic scoreboard for the baseball team and diligently maintained the sports display cases at school. Jim loved sports and loved getting to know students even more. He took a genuine interest in people and lovingly mentored generations of students, as noted by one family impacted by him: "he was the definition of the best in humanity. He represented a true gentleman with impeccable character, integrity, work ethic, strong faith, love for family, and sincere care and dedication to helping students and athletes succeed in every aspect of life." Jim is remembered by friends, family, former students, and community members as genuine, caring, kind, honest, and passionate.

One former student called him an "absolute gentleman," a sentiment echoed by dozens of friends and colleagues. His friends at the scorer?s table at DGS basketball games promise to remember him at every tip off, and in the press box with every kickoff on the football field; it's impossible for them to imagine watching a game without Jim, as he only missed one home football game in the last 15 years.

Jim is survived by his wife, Diane, his siblings Carrol Mizener Paranto, Verna Mizener Burleigh, and Judith Mizener Calhoun, his beloved children Laura Mizener and Rebecca Mizener Burnett, and his cherished grandchildren Kathleen Burnett, Anissa Burnett, Sophia Burnett, Anneli Burnett, and Aleah Edwards.

A memorial service will sadly not be held at this time because of restrictions, and Jim's wish to keep everyone safe from COVID-19. The simplest way to honor Jim is to wear your mask and avoid gatherings large and small, even with extended family unless precautions are carefully taken--- no one can be too careful. He knew how many were praying for him, he was so very thankful, and the doctors were amazed how hard his body was fighting to defeat the virus and the severe double pneumonia. He remained positive, determined, and cheerful to the very end, when he quite unexpectedly began to bleed internally. Even going into the ICU Jim had a good grip and a positive attitude. Plans will be announced for a memorial service at a later date, which can allow those who wish to honor his impact on his friends and community to do so.

Jim's ashes will be interred at Clarendon Hills Cemetery in Darien, Illinois. In lieu of flowers, memorials in his name can be made to the Jim Mizener Scholarship Fund, care of Community High School District 99, South High School, 1436 Norfolk Street, Downers Grove, IL 60516.

Additional information from local media:
https://campussuite-storage.s3.amazonaws.com/prod/11165/bf837fc0-1ca3-11e6-b537-22000bd8490f/2186531/51c99320-2b46-11eb-bc80-128dac9d5513/file/111920%20Jim%20-%20SL.pdf

Downtown Theatre: The Will Rogers

Wondering if you remember trekking downtown, seven blocks or more, with a date in the middle of winter - - to see a movie at the Will Rogers, plus the shivering return trip to campus? I did that more than once before I had a car.

The Will Rogers Theatre first opened February 8, 1938 with 1,000 seats in its single auditorium. It was twinned / split down the middle to make two screens in October 1984 and was later closed in 2010. The Will Rogers was taken over by new owners in 2012, restoration and reopening is planned.

A 30-minute documentary (Click on the URL below) by Rick Riccio of Lerna, Illinois, explores the history of the Will Rogers Theatre in Charleston, Illinois - - thru interviews with family members of people that helped build and run the theater, as well as former employees, and also patrons that attended the theater through the the years.

https://youtu.be/75NPb4tF1qk (Length: 30 minutes)

Marty 'Duck' Pattin (April 6, 1943 - Oct. 3, 2018)

Marty Pattin began working at Walt's when he was finishing up at Charleston High School. He worked there during his years at Eastern.

I worked with him a few hours at the Short Stop Drive Inn (Actually, Marty was making a star appearance and greeted customers on opening day). Marty had suggested the name of the Short Stop to Walt Warmoth and Larry Mizener!

Martin William Pattin was an American Major League Baseball right-handed pitcher. He pitched for the California Angels, Seattle Pilots, Milwaukee Brewers, Boston Red Sox, and the Kansas City Royals. During a 13-year baseball career, Pattin compiled 114 wins, 1,179 strikeouts, and a 3.62 earned run average.

This past weekend, Marty was back in Charleston, IL to visit friends. He died of natural causes in his sleep.

Article from KU Sports
http://www2.kusports.com/news/2018/oct/03/former-royals-pitcher-ku-baseball-coach-marty-patt/

Obituary online at:
https://www.kansascity.com/sports/mlb/kansas-city-royals/article219466410.html

More biography information from interview:
http://www2.ljworld.com/news/2011/jun/28/duck-tales-ex-mlb-pitcher-ku-coach-pattin-recalls/

New Ko-Op Cafe Opens - September 17, 1961

Coe, Nancy (Sept. 27, 1961). “Walt Warmoth Opens New Restaurant; Enters 21st Year of Business in the City.” Daily Eastern News, p.10.

http://thekeep.eiu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1001&context=den_1961_sep

A cigarette and a cup of coffee are the trademarks of a man who can usually be seen leaning against the cash register at Walt’s Cafe - Walt Warmoth.

Walt had been in business for some 20 years at two locations near the campus. His restaurants have been favorite gathering places for students and faculty alike.

Warmoth’s latest venture, the Ko-Op Cafe, opened Sept. 17, on the location previously occupied by the original Ko-Op.

The old Ko-Op, Walt’s first restaurant, was erected on Lincoln St., just east of Seventh, in March, 1940. It served students until 1959, when construction of Route 17 (State Hwy 16) resulted in the condemnation of the building.

Warmoth then started Walt’s Cafe, often called the “Open,” on the corner of Fourth and Lincoln. The new Ko-Op was open for business only six weeks after his August decision to re-build the cafe.

“Things have started off real well at the Ko-Op,” said Walt. ”It’s a good traffic corner.”

Under the direction of Larry Mizener, who has been with Walt as manager since 1952, the Ko-Op will operate much the same as Walt’s. Both restaurants function entirely with student help consisting of some 30 men.

“Many of the guys who have worked for me in the past have tremendously good jobs now?, Walt said. “Some have even opened their own restaurants.”

Howard Skidmore, flight-service commander to the carrier that picked up astronaut Alan Shepard after his space flight, worked for Warmoth during his college career. “Skidmore is a good man,” Walt said. “Recently, he sent me pictures of the pick-up. It was really something.”

Walt commented that he never seemed to have many big problems with his businesses. “I suppose I could find some if I really looked, but I just enjoy the work,” he said.

A sports enthusiast and Panther fan, Walt attends most of Eastern’s games, as he said “according to season.”

Walt attended Eastern in 1935 and 1937. He then entered the University of Illinois medical school. When asked just why he left the university, he replied, “I decided that hamburgers smelled better than formaldehyde.”

Walt Warmoth's Story - Part 2

This article contains some of the same or similar information with others posted before; however it also covers a little new ground.

(February 21, 1964). “Walt’s Boys Succeed . . .” Eastern State News, p. 3.

http://thekeep.eiu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1005&context=den_1964_feb

As far as college “hangouts” Eastern takes a backseat to none. Many students find that Walt’s, the Ko-Op and Little Campus provide good places to while away their their leisure hours before, between and after classes. Evenings are no different. Many a coke date has been spent at one of these “hangouts.”

A history of Walt’s, the Ko-Op and Little Campus also consists of a history of Walter Warmoth, better known to Eastern students as Walt.

Walt came to Charleston 1935 on an inventory trip for Walgreen’s Drug Store. He returned in 1937 and opened the Little Campus where he had worked during his school days at Eastern. With increased enrollment, he soon found it necessary to build and additional room to accommodate his patrons.

In 1939, Walt further expand his business by buying the Ko-Op. The Ko-Op had been a grocery store, but it was not long before it was converted into a popular Eastern “hangout” serving sandwiches, fountain goods and hot meals.

When Lincoln and Douglas halls were built, Walt recognized the need for another “hangout.” In 1953 Walt’s expanded. For the 1st year the additional room in Walt’s was used for dancing, but the following year tables were placed in the room to accommodate more students.

Ivan “Ike” Kennard became the proprietor of Little Campus in 1948. “Ike” had worked for Walt in 1940 at the Ko-Op.

In 1952, Larry Mizener, an Eastern graduate became the proprietor of he Ko-Op. He had also worked for Walt at the Ko-Op during his college years.

According to Walt, students were most interested in buying complete meals that would “fill them up” when Little Campus first opened, instead of buying odds and ends as they do today. Complete meals then cost 25 to 30 cents.

Little Campus received its best competition from another Eastern “hangout,” when the Panther Lair, then located on the corner where Lincoln Hall now stands, opened.

Walt recalled that the Panther Lair, then directed by Hobart F. Heller, present vice president of instruction, always seemed to undersell him. The present Panther Lair in the University Union is operated by Tim Mitchell, also a former employee of Walt.

Other former employees of Walt manage and own restaurants, snack-bars and cafeterias. At the present time, Walt knows of seven former employees who are connected with university snack-bars and cafeterias.

Walt has a great interest in Eastern students and enjoys working with them. “They’ve always been easy to deal with,” he said.

Walt also said the he’s “in the most pleasant business. My greatest appreciation is that I am able to associate with Eastern students and faculty.”

Walt feels that students today are “smarter” than when he went to school. “Whether it’s due to television or what, I don’t know but I think they’ve learned much since my school days,” he said.

Eastern “hangouts” are always busy, but busiest hours seem to be noon, late evenings and float periods. Sunday evenings, especially in the winter, tend to bring additional business, according to Walt.

The “hangouts” used to be busy during the entire evening, but now it seems that students don’t begin to come in until later. Walt attributes this change to the increase in activities for couples in the evening and to the availability of transportation to other places.

“The total traffic count for a night is not very different though,” he said.

Walt Warmoth's Story - Part 1

To work at the Ko-Op for Larry Mizener made one a part of Walt Warmoth's business too. Walt's, The Ko-op, Ike's Little Campus and later the Short Stop were all connected. I first met Walt at a joint Walt's and Ko-Op Christmas party held at Walt's in Dec. 1964.

It was a great holiday bash with Walt's manager Mike Frazier leading and members of his crew delivering a huge feast with unlimited beverages. Walt was the center of attention. Learned that if you knew how to conduct oneself, you were welcome to visit Walt after closing hours. He held 'court' standing behind the counter with a lit cigarette, a drink in hand, and commanded everyone's attention. At that time, Walt's crew included Jim Mizener (Larry's younger brother), Alan York, Dick Wutche, Bob Bonarigo (Those are the one's that I remember).

Everyone kicked in to help; we had roast turkey, baked ham, and all the trimmings (Way more food than we could eat), and one of Walt's crew moved an organ into the back room to lead us in singing carols (The musical instrument may have been from Donna and Walt's family residence upstairs).

The following year was the Ko-Op's turn to host, but none ever equalled this first one. Party lasted into the wee morning hours - and was the best ever!

Left side: Alan York at the grill, unknown beside him, Jim Mizener in glasses,

and possibly Mike Frazier on the far end.

This article in the campus newspaper focused on Walt and his history in Charleston:

Howard, Juanita (Mar. 9, 1955). Walt’s Business Success Tags Title of ‘Mayor of South Charleston’. Eastern State News, p. 3.

http://thekeep.eiu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1001&context=den_1955_mar

Would you like to own a business? What is your chance in it? Well, listen to Walter Warmoth’s story.

A history of the Ko-Op, Little Campus, and the Open consists also of the history of Walter Warmoth, originally a Wabash County resident (Correction: Browns, IL in Edwards County) and former Eastern student.

‘Walt’ as the majority of Eastern students know him, started school here in the fall of 1935. The selection of Eastern to be his alma mater came after viewing the campus while visiting Charleston with the Walgreen’s Drugstore Exchange of Chicago, by whom he was then employed.

“The improvements which have been made in the college since that time are incomparable,” said ‘Walt’, as he thoughtfully lit another cigarette.

He bought the Little Campus in 1937, after having worked there during his school days. With his ready smile, plenty of hard work and ambition, ‘Walt’ soon had to add an additional room to accommodate its student patrons.

The converting of a grocery store to establish the Ko-Op soon followed, serving sandwiches, fountain goods and hot meals.

When Lincoln and Douglas halls were erected, ‘Walt’ saw the need for one more “hangout” for the Eastern students, so, in 1953, he built the Open which has since became another favorite spot for the coke crowd to assemble.

‘Walt’ has been in the restaurant business here for 18 years, with the exception of (Unreadable number) years spent in the armed services and studying medicine at the University of Illinois in Chicago.

When asked about his intentions in this field, ‘Walt’ replied “Although my chief interest was in business, I liked to study.”

‘Walt’ is an active member of the Masons, Elks, American legion and numerous other organizations. He is also an honorary member of the Sigma Tau Gamma social fraternity.

He was married in 1944 to Donna Smith, also a former Eastern grad and has a boy (William) six years old and a girl (Linda) four years old.

Photo of Wallace Walter 'Cy' Warmoth, Walt Warmoth's Uncle.
Professional baseball player 1916-1923.
Pitcher for the St. Louis Cardinals and Washington Senators.

Click on Comments (Below right side) to read more . . .

Sport Light of the Week: Larry Mizener 1950

Another Daily Eastern News article that focused on Larry Mizener:

Mayan, Jack (Oct. 4, 1950). "Sport Light of the Week." Daily Eastern News. Eastern Illinois University. p.6.

http://thekeep.eiu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1000&context=den_1950_oct

Although the Air Force and the Navy receive a great deal of credit for winning wars, it is generally conceded that it is the ground forces which actually turn the tide of battles by going in and conquering enemy lands.

Sophomore Class Officers (1949 Warbler)

This axiom can be compared to the wars of the gridiron where passing is certainly a highly important weapon, but even so the real power of a team is measured by the yardage gained from the line of scrimmage.

1949 Warbler

Eastern’s rushing power was exemplified in the Ball State game by hard-charging Larry Mizener of Lisle, Illinois. All Larry did in the game was to pick up 95 yards in only 13 ball carrying attempts. Almost any fourth grader can tell you that “Mize” averaged better than seven yards per carry which is something to be proud of. Larry must have been proud of his performance as he rated it his biggest sport thrill, along with getting revenge from the Ball Staters for their 47 to 13 rout of Eastern in “49.”

Junior Class Officers (Warbler 1950)

Larry is trying for his third varsity football letter this season, besides his activities in the Varsity club and in Phi Sigma Epsilon fraternity. Now in his senior year, Larry hasn’t let any grass grow under his feet while at Eastern. He was elected class president in both is sophomore and junior years.

Physical Education majors are not uncommon on Eastern’s athletic squads, but PE majors with speech correction minors are not to frequent. Larry picked this curriculum with an eye towards coaching with a speech correction sideline.

Phi Sigma Epsilon (Warbler 1950)

Larry attended Downers Grove high school where he lettered three times in both football and track. In the latter, “Mize” was a high hurdler.

Most of Larry’s spare time is taken up by his job at the Ko-op, but he likes to play golf occasionally. Although “Mize” has been called in for his Army physical, he is ranked in the upper half of his class so he is hoping for a deferment.

Ad in Eastern State News (Oct. 08, 1947)

Larry Mizener: EIU '47-1951

Another article and photos from the EIU archives - The Keep:

Howard, Juanita (Mar. 30, 1955) “Larry Prefers Selling Food to Teaching.” Eastern State News, p. 3

http://thekeep.eiu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1003&context=den_1955_mar

Warbler 1951: Larry Mizener "Who's Who"

Larry Mizener, manager of the “Ko-Op” and former graduate of Eastern, took time out between coke orders to give us a tunnel view of his past history.

"Mize" 1951

Larry is originally from Lisle, a township located 22 miles southwest of Chicago. A pep talk from his high school football coach was in part responsible for his enrollment at Eastern in 1947.

 Senior Class President

He majored in P.E. and played halfback on the football team. After working at the “Ko-Op” during his four years in school, Larry side tracked his ambition to become a high school coach and continued his work here.

1951 Class Officers

Perhaps his sincere interest in people, which is shown by his work in the Moose club, is responsible for his decision to stay in Charleston. Larry employs college students who are from ‘Mooseheart’, a city where the children of deceased Moose club members are provided for by other members of the club.

Phi Sigma Epsilon (Mize, top right)

He is an alumnus of Phi Sigma Epsilon social fraternity, and is married to the former Mildred Jean Carr, also an Eastern graduate. They have one daughter who is 20 months old.

During the summer months, Larry runs “Walt’s” which is kept open for the benefit of the summer school students.

1951 Warbler photo

Not Many Photographs from 'Back in the Day'

Most of us did not have a camera, many of us did not make it to sessions scheduled for the Warbler yearbook, so photographs of our undergrad college years are rare. Recently Deb Mizener Beckrich sent me this one below. I believe that her dad, Larry Mizener, took it in 1967 inside the Short Stop. Neither Deb or I can remember the name of the girl standing beside me; she worked at the Short Stop. I may be way off, but I think that she was a relative (Younger sister perhaps) of Charleston lawyer, Woody Kramer, originally from Villa Grove? Deb thinks her first name might be Pamela or Sue?

Anyone else have a photo that they could share?

I have no idea of what I had going on with that apron fold . . .

Whitey . . . Member of Ko-Op’s Incoming Class of ’64

Russ White and Gary Cook first began working at the Ko-Op at the beginning of fall quarter in 1964. I started work there by early November. Other ’64 high school grads, Ken Kirby and Gus Pekara later came on board.

I still remember how surprised I was when Russ left EIU in 1967 to enlist in the Army.

Christmas day 1968 in Vietnam, Hill 53
(Sargeant Russ White on the far left - with half of platoon)

After boot camp training, Russ spent 1968 and began '69 in Vietnam. He was assigned to the 3/82 Artillery, 196th Light Infantry Brigade. In February, He was blown up on a landing zone (LZ) south of Danang. After recovering from wounds, Russ was assigned for eight months to a burial team out of Ft. Lewis (Near Tacoma, WA). Then he returned to Eastern.

I last saw and visited Whitey around 1971 at his then home in Mattoon. Ken Lowry was also there. At EIU, he had changed majors and soon graduated with a teaching degree in Botany and Zoology.

Russ taught science for six years east of Decatur at Atwood-Hammond school district. He also married Cindy, adopted two children, and they had another daughter in 1978 (Daughters Amber and Tamara and son, Cory).

During that time, Russ also completed a Masters degree in educational administration at EIU. In 1980, he then switched jobs to become the principal at Cissna Park.

Russ continued his education at the University of Illinois and completed a Doctoral degree. Beginning in July 1986, he was superintendent for six years at Crescent City. He also taught classes for the Masters program at Governors State University.

End of June 2004, Russ White retired after serving fourteen years as the superintendent of Wilmington School District 209U, located fifty miles southwest of Chicago in the Kankakee River Valley. During his tenure there, Russ served on the Superintendent’s Advisory Board for the ISBE (Illinois State Board of Education) and advocated for changing school funding to be based on State income taxes and reduced property taxes.

After retirement, he worked one more year as a principal at an alternative high school in Cook County.

Russ and Cindy live near Bonfield, Illinois. They share a Facebook account and post family photos (Nine grandchildren) on their pages. It’s a nice connection to their lives and activities. Enjoy seeing some of their travels. Last March, Cindy and Russ went back to Vietnam and visited the LZ where he was wounded.

Spring in the Air . . .

Spring of 1964; I was finishing up high school in Findlay, Illinois and making plans for EIU that coming Fall. And I heard about the Eastern waterfights from my brother. Bob Johnson was two years older and an EIU student. He was also a student manager at the University Union Snackbar - a popular student hangout in those days.

He talked about being at work on the first night of disturbances (Tuesday, May 18th), and then being a spectator on Lincoln Avenue the second night when the action heated up. Students, mainly male, were marching down Lincoln Avenue, opening fire hydrants, and dumping buckets of water over the heads of officers positioned to 'protect' hydrants down the street. Water was surging down Lincoln Avenue. The rambunctiousness was over in a few nights. Bob told of being followed home from work to his off-campus room another night as a curfew was enforced. As he crossed the yard to his basement room, a spotlight came on, and a policeman told him to 'get his ass inside, and stay there' for the night.

Read about the historic riot in Charleston, and a similar riot in Champaign Urbana's campustown the following weekend:

(1995) Eastern Illinois University. Turner Publishing Company; p. 45.

"The year 1964 was probably the most controversial in Eastern's history. Campus police still recall the famous water fight, involving some 300 students, that began on May 18 and lasted through the week. The disturbance splashed over the campus and into the streets of Charleston. Fire hydrants were opened in downtown Charleston; dorm rooms were doused; and a university administrator was allegedly hit in the head with and empty water bucket. Campus and city police were needed to quell the crowds of students roaming the campus.

On the second night State Police and others set up a roadblock to prevent University of Illinois Greek organizations from answering an alleged challenge from Eastern's Greek Houses, which had been broadcast over a Chicago radio station, to join in a water fight. Doudna filed a complaint with the Federal Communications Commission and condemned the 'mob action' of the local students. By Friday, county and city law enforcement authorities had had enough; they promised arrests under mob action statutes if the disturbances continued"

Things were jumping in Champaign-Urbana too . . .

Fuller, Tony (May 26, 1964). 31 Disciplined in Riot. Daily Illini.

Thirty-one students will be disciplined for participation in Sunday night’s campus rock and bottle throwing incident. All of the students apprehended in the mob action, which one security official characterized as the meanest and nastiest for its size the he had seen, face possible expulsion from the University. The same official estimated the size of the crowd as being somewhere between 500 and 1,000. No injuries were reported resulting from the activities of the milling and somewhat formless group of students who began to congregate around 11:15 p.m. Sunday night. However, one source said that a member of the Dean of Mens staff did receive a nick on the side of the forehead from a horseshoe which was thrown by one of the participants.

University officials said that activities evidently had no central motivation or strong leadership. Although no serious bodily damage was reported, both eat Security Office and the Champaign police said that the mob did more damage to property than any of the waterfight groups of past years. In the past fights the mobs have concentrated more on opening hydrants and shoving people into the stream. However, the Sunday night groups was seemingly bent on property destruction. According to one law enforcement official the students hurled stones, bricks and pop bottles at home and cars. It was reported that Gaylord Hatch, assistant dean of men, has some of the windows smashed out of his car by flying pop bottles.

In addition, many street lights were smashed; Champaign City Manager Warren Browning estimated that it would cost slightly less than $ 100 to replace the damaged lights. One student was arrested by Champaign police. He is Jack D. Rubinstein, freshman in engineering; Rubinstein was charged with disobeying a officer. Officers said that he repeatedly refused to show his ID card when asked. Released on $ 25 bond, Rubinstein will appear in court on June 5.

The mob also opened about 13 fire hydrants. Security officials said, however, that the hydrants were opened with no apparent intention of doing anything with the water. Police had no trouble in closing them shortly after they were opened. The group began to congregate in fraternity park near Chalmers and Third streets in Champaign. From there they moved east to Wright Street and then back to the park. At various times there were sections of the crowd grouping around the MRH Canteen, Locust Street and Noble Hall, security officials said. While moving, the crowd made several stops at women’s residences and screamed we want panties. Most observers said the action seemed to lose force about 2:19 or 2:30 a.m. However, a false alarm brought fire trucks screaming to the burnt shell of the Phi Gamma Delta fraternity house about 2:30.  The Phi Gam house, 401 East John St., was demolished by fire over the Easter vacation.

Champaign Police Chief Harvey Shirley told the Daily Illini Monday afternoon that he had no way of knowing whether the mob action would reoccur. He did say that his police department and University officials had well worked out plans regarding the handling of any large mob actions. He reused to comment as to the plans content. Hatch, the dean who had his car windows smashed, said that people had to realize that the mob actions involved a very small minority of the total number so students. I believe that most students just aren’t crazy about the ideas of such irresponsible acts, he said.

In other events surrounding student rioting in the state Quincy Doudna, President of Eastern Illinois University, lodged a complaint with the Federal Communications Commission charging radio station WLS in Chicago with irresponsible broadcasting, giving out anonymous information and confusion in the town of Charleston, where Eastern is located. Eastern officials told the Daily Illini that WLS, on Monday of last week, began broadcasting a challenge, phoned in by an anonymous student at Eastern, calling on (University of) Illinois students to come to Charleston and participate in a waterfight on Thursday. The officials said that the radio station persisted in making the announcements all during the week.

On Thursday evening the Eastern campus was the scene of a demonstration involving about 200 students. The gathering of students was characterized as a combination revolt and panty raid. Most of the students either went to women’s residences and cried, we want panties, or stood in groups yelling. Down with dictator tactics. There were no injuries reported. Officials at Eastern said that President Doudna consulted with the local sheriff who told him that he thought WLS could be held just as responsible as anyone for the demonstration. As a result the complaint was lodged. Representatives of WLS, contacted in Chicago Monday, refused to make any comment on the situation.

Another article excerpt from the Charleston paper:

CHARLESTON -- Eastern Illinois University officials and Coles County Sheriff Paul B. Smith charged today that Chicago radio station WLS was largely responsible for Thursday night's student demonstrations and general unrest in Charleston. Thursday night's disturbance followed outbreaks Monday in which students damaged a number of Charleston fire hydrants and staged water fights. A formal protest to the Federal Communications Commission was sent today by EIU President Quincy Doudna asking the FCC to investigate WLS in presenting stories in such a way that it would foment a disturbance. Doudna said no other media outlet reported that a water fight was expected on EIU's campus Thursday night. "I believe this station was the only one to accept statements from unreliable sources that Eastern students had challenged University of Illinois students to a water fight.” Doudna said...

Later in 1967-68, there were a few sparsely attended protest rallies on the EIU campus. One asked for a fired professor to be reinstated; I believe that there was a war protest or two. However student unrest of the Sixties did not touch EIU all that much. It was another few years before the EIU campus experienced a small uprising. It was not a threatening kind. Mild temperatures; an early Spring warmup led to streaking.

Another brief excerpt from the EIU history tells all:

(1995) Eastern Illinois University. Turner Publishing Company; p. 52.

“Streaking was a popular fad in 1974, as Eastern students graduated from the comparatively restrained panty raids of years gone by. Several students caught the craze, while several hundred others watched. In a statement released to the media in March, (President) Fite said: ‘While I am disappointed that Eastern students have failed to demonstrate their much-acclaimed maturity by joining this silly, juvenile fad. I am sure that our Health Service can handle any epidemic of sniffles resulting from the exposure.’ Health Director Jerry Heath said there had not been any case of students who caught cold because they had been running outside in the nude.”

An appreciative audience cheered on participants for a few nights. The streaking runs were on campus, so the Charleston Police were not involved. Campus cops were right there in the crowd of students and faculty, along with a few administrators and townspeople who came to watch.

Linda Warmoth. July 26, 1950 - April 4, 2016

My career path intersected briefly with Linda's (Daughter of Walt and Donna Warmoth) during the early 1980s. As an officer in a state organization, I worked with her in planning a conference in Springfield. She was an excellent facilitator. During our meetings, we reminisced about Charleston, her parents, and Walt's Cafe. Her younger brother, William is an attorney in Charleston, Illinois.

SPRINGFIELD -- Linda R. Warmoth-Shelton, 65, of Rochester, died at 12:16 a.m. on Monday, April 4, 2016 at Memorial Medical Center.

Linda was born July 26, 1950 in Charleston, the daughter of Walter E. and Donna L. Smith Warmoth. She married Michael Shelton in 1992 in Charleston.

Linda was a graduate of Charleston High School and Eastern Illinois University. She worked for the Capital City Speakers Bureau. Linda was the Sales and Catering Director at the Holiday Inn East and retired as the Vice President of Sales and Marketing at the Crowne Plaza. She received numerous awards, including YMCA Woman of the Year and National Sales and Marketing Director of the Year of Crowne Plaza Hotels. Linda was a member of the Junior League and volunteered for the Ronald McDonald House. She was on the hospitality advisory board at Eastern Illinois University. Linda was a social butterfly and very personable; she will be greatly missed by many.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

She is survived by her husband, Michael Shelton of Rochester; her step-sons, Alan Shelton (Tracy Dobbins) of Springfield, Tony (Amy) Shelton of Bakersfield, and Matthew (Julie) Shelton of Rochester; four grandchildren, Tyler, Ashley, Clayton, and Everett Shelton; one brother, William J. (Barbara J.) Warmoth of Charleston; one nephew, Brian W. (Joohyun Lyoo) Warmoth of Washington, DC; and her beloved dog, Lucy.

Memorial Ceremony and Gathering: A memorial ceremony will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Sunday, April 10, 2016 at Crowne Plaza, 3000 S. Dirksen Parkway, Springfield, with Dr. Paul E. Boatman officiating. A memorial gathering will follow until 5:00 p.m.

In life, Linda gave unconditionally with her time and talents. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to the Linda Warmoth-Shelton Memorial Fund, c/o Rochester State Bank, PO Box 140, Rochester, IL 62563.

Ivan S. Kennard, March 29, 1922 - April 4, 2015

Don Gher shared this information:

Obituary for Ivan S. Kennard
(Excerpted from Moore Funeral Homes, lots of great photos in the Tribute section)

Ivan (“Ike”) Kennard, 93, died Saturday, April 4, 2015, at his home in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Ike was born on March 29, 1922, in Lawrence County, Illinois, to Ephraim Henry Kennard and Hattie Leora Schrodt. He married Joan King on April 23, 1943. She survives along with their daughter Marlys Fallen and husband Carl, Tulsa, Oklahoma.

Ike attended Eastern Illinois University and was a World War II Navy pilot and flight instructor. After the war, he returned to Charleston where he lived until September 2011 when he and Joan moved to Tulsa. Ike was the owner of "Ike's Little Campus" across the street from Eastern Illinois University. He was a longtime supporter of EIU.

Besides his wife and daughter, Ike is survived by his older brother Joseph Kennard, Coral Gables, Florida, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sisters Phyllis Copeland, Kathryn Hacker, Elaine Mahon and Frances Brooks; and his brothers Hayes and Rex Kennard, and his sons Stephen Wayne Kennard and Michael King Kennard.

Click here for more from EIU: 
https://eiupanthers.com/news/2015/4/7/GEN_0407153229.aspx

03 Sept. 2018: more about Ike Kennard:
https://ko-op.blogspot.com/2018/09/walts-ko-op-and-ikes-little-campus.html