Michalskis, then and now

These photos show Monongah’s Michalski family more than a half-century ago and today.

Ramona Fullen Michalski, Class of 1949, married Frank Michalski, who was in the Class of 1950 but dropped out after the 1949 football season. 

They had six children.

Marcia Michalski Westfall, Class of 1974, of Kilarm, married Dave Westfall, Class of 1948. The others were Mike Michalski (wife Jan) and Jay Michalski (wife Debbie), both of Monongah, Carol Michalski Drake (husband Bob) of Shinnston and Ramona Michalski, who lives with Ramona Fullen Michalski in Monongah.

Another child, Mary Frances Michalski Gapen, Class of 1968, married to Rick Gapen, passed away in 2012. Mary was a teacher at Barrackville Middle School and Monongah Elementary.

Ramona's grandson, Tony Michalski, is Marion County Parks and Recreation Comission executive director.

Ramona's grandfather was the half-brother of the father of Shirley Fullen, Class of 1954.

Ramona’s home is a de facto Monongah High and Town of Monongah museum, including the Lion water fountain not far from the family swimming pool.

It also is the stopping place for MHS alumni passing through town. Just ask Tom Dean, Class of 1949, who lives in Alta Vista, Virginia but visits “Monie,” as he calls Ramona, every chance he gets.

Or me. When I took my children and grandchildren on a trip into my history, Ramona’s was the highlight of our Monongah visit.

If you have memories of the Michalski family, email John Olesky at jo4wvu@neo.rr.com and I’ll add them to this Monongah High Alumni blog article.