Mary Saldutti Frederick
Greetings fellow classmates. During my “Happy Days” at LA High I was a member of the orchestra, the choir and a student secretary (along with my good friend, Priscilla Wyatt) to Mr. McClure in the Audio Visual Department. To family and friends I have always been known by my middle name—Marguerite.
After graduation I joined the staff of the local savings and loan, where I progressed to secretary to the president and assistant secretary of the association. Vacations (and any other opportunities) were spent traveling to those fascinating places I read about or saw in pictures. In 1975 I married and decided I would like to try my hand at homemaking—Jack had three children, so I had a ready-made family. I enjoyed home life, but preferred the boardroom to the kitchen, and the typewriter to the vacuum cleaner. After a few years, I returned to the business world, where I was secretary to a local attorney who also owned a construction company.
Life with Jack was one adventure after another—he had such a zest for life. We were members of theater groups and many organizations in the Philadelphia area. We met, socialized with, and entertained such marvelous, interesting people. We traveled. Life was never dull. Having friends in the garment business, it was always great fun helping them show their new lines each season. Tennis was my passion, and I became quite proficient. Jack and I both enjoyed boating, riding and, of course, entertaining. If i had to write Jack’s epitaph it would be—“Here lies my beloved husband, Jack, who left no stone unturned except this one.”
In 1994 we retired to Bradenton, Florida. Jack’s health was failing and the warm climate made life easier for him. He passed away in 2001. I still miss him, his humor, and his wonderful love of life. To fill the void, I returned to the business world where I am now managing the office of a small flooring company. Fortunately, my health is good, and I still enjoy working.
I have five grandchildren, three of whom live here in Bradenton. They give me much pleasure and joy. Entertaining is still a big part of my life, and I have become quite an “Old Movie Buff.” Walking has replaced tennis. Life is good.
I’m looking forward to seeing all of you in September.
A special thanks goes to all those who are working so hard to make this Reunion such a big success. Thank you.