60 Years of Love: It All Started Here

In 1951 I was a high school senior in Ely, Nevada and proud holder of the 440 state record. Coach Stan Pavko contacted me about attending MJC. I accepted and began running for MJC.

We had a good track season in 1952 and won the Big Seven Conference the following year. At MJC I roomed with fellow runner Jack Albiani with whom I’m still close and enjoy sharing memories of our track adventures.

One of the best things happened in the fall of 1952 when Jack introduced me to a freshman named Jo Ann. She and I became a serious couple and married in 1954. We will celebrate our 60th anniversary this year. Of course, Jack was the best man at our wedding.

After my time at MJC, I went on to compete at San Jose State and on the US Army Team in Europe. I began teaching and coaching in Millbrae in 1959 then moved to Citrus Heights in 1962. I had a wonderful, 32-year career teaching Industrial Arts and coaching.

- Gene Tognetti