Lonnie Micheli

Began career with Pacific Telephone in '66. Have 41 years with them (now AT&T). I'm still working and plan to work till I'm 66.

So why am I still working while most of you are living the "good life"? Because I never was what you'd call a "frugal" guy! I always found spending far more fun than saving!

In 1968 I enlisted in the Navy. Spent four years on an aircraft carrier (USS Kitty Hawk). Completed three, nine month tours, in Vietnam between '68 and '72. I'm very proud to be a Vietnam Vet! Many of our classmates died in Vietnam! They're my heros! I'll never forget them!

Got married in '69. Was honorably discharged from the Navy in '72. Went back to work at Pacific Telephone in '72. Also went back to school at night.

My wife and I bought our first house in '73. Had our one and only child in '74. A beautiful daughter we named Stephanie.

Stephanie's now 35, married and has blessed us with two adorable grandsons!

I enjoy many things with my wife! My favorite are boating, "b&b" getaways, auto racing and hot rods.

Got into boating in '84. Started with an 18 foot ski boat. Now have a 38 foot cruiser. My wife and I absolutely love the water and the wonderful people we've met over the years!

Another thing we thoroughly enjoy are "b&b" getaways. We've been to Canada, Washington, Oregon and numerous "b&b's" throughout California. Santa Barbara's one of our very favorite places to go!

My passion for auto racing and hot rods began when I was a boy! I've been a fan ever since!

In '91 I was diagnosed with Colon Cancer. It was a 5 year journey. 6 operations, chemo, radiation, etc. I've been cancer free since '96. The experience taught me a GREAT life lesson. NEVER, EVER take LIFE for granted! It's a precious gift we're only given once!

Anyway, I'm an old, fat, balding fart now (see pictures below)! Jacquie Kirby (Rice) thinks I look great. I think her vision may be impaired!!!!!

It just doesn't seem possible 42 years has past since we graduated from Pacific! That is until I put on a pair of pants that are "X" number of sizes bigger than I wore in high school.

On Feb 10, 2010 my beloved wife of 41 years was killed in a tragic car accident. Life hasn't been worth living without her! She deserved to live! I'm the one who should have been killed!

I have many fond memories of Pacific! The one's I remember most are........

* My first love.
* The Class of '66....great people, great friendships, great spirit, energy and enthusiasm!
* The honor of being senior class president.
* The thrill of singing with Young America!
* Being voted "Senior Class Flirt"....a title I worked very hard to earn! It wasn't an easy job. Flirting with all the girls, all the time, before class, after class, anytime, anywhere. It was hard work! But someone had to do it!
* Cruising the strip on Friday & Saturday nights!
* Hangin out with the guys!
* Mr. Barker, Mr. Bond, Mr. Walker.....the three men I respected, admired and appreciated most!