Henry’s 2017 Hall of Fame inductees

Henry’s 2017 Hall of Fame inductees

This year’s class of Patrick Henry High School’s Hall of Fame inductees were recently announced by the Patrick Henry High School Foundation. These new inductees were involved in a wide variety of academics and activities during their years at Henry. The also shared a common bond of theater.  Ed Flanders, Tom Hanson and Charlie Smith all performed in high school theater.

Ed Flanders (‘52) began his acting career while in high school and continued his acting passion throughout his lifetime. Along with theater, he also played on the hockey team. Flanders won three Emmy Awards and one Tony Award during his career. He is probably most recognized by his starring role as Dr. Donald Westphall on St. Elsewhere. Sadly, Flanders passed away in 1995.

Tom Hanson (‘62) also participated in theater during high school and continues today to act, write and produce theater. Hanson also participated in cross-country, basketball, track, baseball, speech, debate and the school newspaper where he was the sports editor. Hanson’s lifelong career calling was as a Lutheran minister serving mostly in Illinois.

Charlie Smith (‘65) found himself in a leading role in the senior class play of the Twelfth Night. Smith’s high school activities revolved around the bands and orchestra. While in college Smith studied in the College of Forestry and Recreational Resource Management, which lead to a research and planning position with the regional parks and trails. Eventually, he settled into a career as a market research manager at Tenant Company. Smith’s love of music and natural resources never diminished as is shown by his consistent and passionate involvement with the U of M band alumni and the college of natural resource alumni societies.

Help honor these three individuals at the Henry all-school luncheon on Wednesday, October 18 at Edinburgh Golf Club. For info/reservations contact Cathy at 763-425-3362 or tcpeterson1@comcast.net.