Mature Reunion Group

The DTS Mature Alumni group has become an important vehicle for promoting interaction among our older alumni. It is also an opportunity for updating them on issues related to the Active Chapter.

The birthplace of this group was at the home of Robert Spitzer, one of our Wall of Fame alumni. Bob invited several alumni of his vintage and their spouses to his home in Burlington for a picnic in the summer of 1991. It was such a pleasant occasion that those attending remarked “We should do this again!” After a few fits and starts, Mature Alumni reunions have been held annually since 2000 except for 2020 and 2021 when the Covid-19 pandemic precluded large gatherings. Over the past 5 reunions the total attendance by Mature Alumni and their spouses has been averaging about 135.

The purpose of the reunions is purely social; a time to reunite and share stories with old friends. The cost to attend is set to meet expenses. If there is an unanticipated surplus, it is donated to the DTS Educational Foundation. Any losses are covered from a reserve fund held by the Mature Alumni treasurer.

Brothers and their spouses spend a couple of days together at locations that rotate around Wisconsin. Alumni residing in the area form a planning committee that makes all arrangements for the event and mails invitations to eligible alumni. A day of tours to places of interest in the area, a wine tasting event, a semi formal evening reception and singing a few songs are all part of the fun.

What does it take to become a member of the Mature group? Only time! Alumni who were activated approximately 20 years ago are automatically included. No application needed. For the 2021 reunion, which unfortunately had to be cancelled, Alumni with contact information, who were activated in 1981 or before were invited.

Click the button below to update your contact information!

Over time, the Mature Alumni have become more organized and structured. There are three more or less permanent positions.

Overall Coordinator: Responsible for finding alumni willing to host a reunion in their county or area. This process usually begins 2-3 years before the event. There have been three coordinators; Don Schwartz, Jerry Severson, and currently Bryce Larson.

Treasurer: Allocates and receives money from local committee treasurers and holds money in reserve to cover any losses. Treasurers have been Alton Block, Ed Jesse, and currently Steve Pamperin.

Mailing list keeper: Updates mailing addresses for all mature alumni and creates mailing labels. Nile Beck held this position for many years. We are currently looking for someone to take this on.

Here is where we’ve been and those that got it organized.

The 2023 reunion is scheduled for September 19th and 20th, 2023 in Green Bay. About 400 Alumni (who joined DTS in 1982 or before) and their spouse/guest will be invited to attend. Current street address is needed to mail via USPS registration forms so please update your street and email address if needed.