William J. Dunson, better known as Bill, passed away April 28 at Saratoga Hospital. Bill was 97.
Dr. Leo Hoge passed away May 4 at Wesley. Leo was 96.
The connections between these two men and several other Saratoga Springs High School, Class of 1933, is remarkable.
Throughout Bill's lifetime he had a long list of accomplishments including an outstanding career in the sport of horse racing for more than 40 years serving as a judge and a state steward at many tracks.
He also worked for the U.S. Postal Service for 30 years and served locally as postmaster from 1959 through 1960.
But, Bill was not the only unique person in that class of 1933. Leo was another. He was a man that made a tremendous mark on the community as a medical doctor and as a doctor at the Knolls Atomic Lab for many, many years.
What was so unimaginable was several others who graduated from that class went on to make their own marks in this community. Among them were Supreme Court Judge William (Bill) Ford; Appelate Division Supreme Court Judge Michael (Mike) Sweeney; Nate Goldsmith, owner of the famed Mother Goldmith's on Phila Street (a regular spot for the locals); and Zoe Gass Flanagan, who owned and operated the Rip Van Dam Hotel on Broadway for many years after the passing of her husband, Bill.
 There are always talented people in a class, but these talented ones not only went on to higher learning, but returned to make their homes right here in Saratoga Springs. And remained close friends for many, many years.
The men always were seen together on the opening day of the track season having breakfast along the rail. Laughter was always heard coming from their table. And, Dr. Hoge, a photography buff, always had his camera by his side. It was so pleasant to know about their close relationships.
I'm sorry, I'm sure there were others that made wonderful strides in their lives but these were the ones I knew personally and will never forget.

How unique to go through life with these memories of the "good old days."