Remembering '54: Celebrating 70 Years of Friendship and Memories at the Class of 1954 Breakfast Reunion
On July 5, 2024, several alumni from the Class of 1954 reunited at Connor's restaurant for their annual luncheon, honoring a cherished tradition that has fostered lifelong friendships. The event, organized by John Neeson, a former Timon teacher and Canisius University graduate, brought together classmates, including Thomas Merrick, who travels from California each year to visit his sister in Buffalo.
Thomas, a graduate of Colgate and Georgetown, originally pursued a career in medicine but found success in business instead. Joining him were remarkable alumni like Ron "Whitey" Martin, a St. Bonaventure graduate and second-team All-American basketball star; Tom Ryan, a Holy Cross College graduate and captain of his basketball team who also signed with the Baltimore Orioles; and Bill Cary, a successful lawyer and Canisius University alumnus.
The gathering also featured Jerry Janan, a Niagara University graduate and outstanding track star dedicated to helping disadvantaged youth; Henry Demicke, a Canisius University alum who recently retired from Bishop Timon's Finance Department; Mike Auricchio of Auricchio Insurance; and Dan Irwin, a Notre Dame graduate and Marine Corps officer.
These alumni exemplify the spirit of Bishop Timon High School, upholding the Franciscan values of kindness, charity, and faith—*Fortes in Fide*. They proudly share the distinction of having won all major sports championships in one academic year, including football, baseball, basketball, golf, cross country, and even national champions in chess. As noted by former Buffalo News sportswriter Jerry Sullivan, this group is considered one of the finest in school sports history in Western New York over the last fifty years.
The recent luncheon marked not just the 70th anniversary of their graduation, but also a celebration of enduring friendships, shared achievements, and the lasting legacy of Bishop Timon.