paula weger
19602010 |
Paula came to CHS from Illinois at the end of her sophomore year. She immediately became engaged with classes and school activities. During here Junior and Senior years Paula enjoyed her classes, teachers and being with her classmates. She was selected for the National Honor Society, participated in school activities and played flute in the Catalina Marching Band. She loved marching at the CHS football games and Tucson parades. She particularly enjoyed the Fiesta de los Vaqueros parade and still laughs when she describes the “dangers” of marching behind the horses and wagons. She also enjoyed working as a lifeguard at the Lodge on the Desert during summer vacations. Her close friends included Lynne Derby, Janet Ayers, Connie McMillan and the Contzen twins Sally and Susan. She enrolled at the University of Arizona where she majored in Liberal Arts. One of her fondest memories is being selected for the Arizona Wildcat Marching Band. Again she played the flute and marched at football games, performed in old Bear Down Gym and marched in the Tucson rodeo parade. Her first semester was successful and great fun. In February 1961, Paula was in a terrible automobile accident. Driving home one night from her job at Lodge on the Desert her car was struck by a drunk driver. She suffered serious head injuries and was partially paralyzed. She was unconscious for six weeks, and awoke on Easter Sunday. After the accident Paula spent months in rehabilitation. She had to relearn to talk, write, draw and walk. With great courage and strength she was able to learn to drive again. She returned to university for a short time, but unfortunately she could not continue due to some of her injuries. In the years since, Paula has pursued other goals. She enjoys painting and for many years kept up a rigorous physical therapy regime. In recent years she has suffered additional major health setbacks but she always goes forward with a positive outlook. Through all of this, Paula's spirit has shown brightly. Her courage and cheerfulness have never wavered and she continues to make friends wherever she is. Her sense of humor is wonderfully “wicked” and she loves sparring with friends. It is difficult, if not impossible, to get one over on Paula. She lives in Tucson at Sunrise at the River. The staff is very accommodating and she has a close circle of friends there. She is able to get out frequently and still enjoys going to movies and other local events. Paula is looking forward to the CHS 50th Reunion and promises to attend. In the meantime, she would love to hear from old classmates and share stories.
Sadly, Paula passed away. (Last Updated: 2014) |
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