1894 - 2004
In the early years of NAPUS (1898ff.) there were no provisions for Postmasters to continue their membership after retirement. Several efforts were made to establish a retiree organization, but official founding of the group was long in coming.

On July 3, 1926, Congress amended the retirement act of 1920, providing for retirement at age 62, with the annuity computed on an average basic salary for the last ten years. Few Postmasters, however, attained that goal, since most were only appointed for four-year terms.

The revised NAPUS Constitution and Bylaws adopted at the 1935 national convention in Chicago finally provided for auxiliary membership for retired Postmasters, but no official organization.
In 1938, the Ramspeck-O'Mahoney Act became law and Postmasters could finally plan on lifelong careers. In1939, retirement privileges were extended to classified Postmasters. The ranks of retired NAPUS Postmasters increased, but they were without a separate organization.

John W. Masterson, Postmaster at Harmon-on-Hudson, NY, can be credited for forming an organization for Postmasters Retired. The December 1950 issue of the Postmasters Gazette featured Masterson as looking forward to forming a group of retired Postmasters with whom he could meet and talk over old times. Any one interested was asked to contact him.

On September 18, 1951 at the national convention in Washington, DC, the Retired Postmasters Association of the United States was organized under NAPUS. Elected officers were: president, John W. Masterson, Harmon-on-Hudson, NY; vice presidents, Isaac A. Smoot, Salt Lake City, UT; Michael J. O'Rourke, Beverly Hills, CA; William DeGrasse, Amarillo, TX; secretary-treasurer, Frank L. Egger, Larchmont, NY; and honorary member, James A. Farley, former Postmaster General.

Membership dues were $1 per year, or a lifetime membership for $10. The current president's village would be headquarters. A picture of Uncle Sam was chosen as an emblem. (Among the speakers at the 1951 NAPUS national convention were: U.S. President Harry S Truman, Vice President Albin W. Barkley, and Speaker of the House Sam Rayburn.)

Retired Denver, CO Postmaster James O. Stevic said, "I am thankful a provision has been made for associate memberships... Retired Postmasters now receive a monthly annuity check, another of the Association's 'assists.' I am hopeful I may play a part in encouraging those who are now 'on the bench' to join me...and apply for an associate membership...through their regular state chapters."

Editor's Note: The designations "honorary member," "auxiliary member" and "associate member" all refer to retired Postmasters. The "honorary member" designation seemed to be accepted until about the time of the NAPUS reorganization (1930s). In 1926, the NAPUS Bylaws noted that subscribers to the Postmasters Gazette who were not active members "shall be designated associate members of the association..." After the mid-1930s, the designations "associate" and "auxiliary" were used rather loosely and often synonymously to refer to retired Postmasters. As efforts were made on an irregular basis toward formal organization of the retirees, lack of coordination and continuity, plus the fact that so few records were kept, merely perpetuated the confusion. From the 1970s to 1980s, special efforts were made to clarify, identify and define the retiree designation. Today, NAPUS retirees wishing to continue their association with NAPUS must do so as members of NAPUS "Postmasters Retired." There are also "surviving spouse" and "associate" membership designations within NAPUS (since 1969), the latter consisting of individuals who joined NAPUS as officers-in-charge.

Although the retired Postmasters finally had an organization, it would be a long and winding road before they were allowed to perform useful functions for NAPUS, such as helping to prevent post office closings, membership recruitment and collecting donations for the Political Action Committee (PAC). At national conventions, usually in the lobby of the headquarters hotel, relaxing in the comfortable chairs and reminiscing about old times while the activities of the convention went on around them, many were ready, willing and able to help, but no one asked.

The Retired Postmasters Association met with NAPUS in convention at Boston, MA October 10-14, 1952. Total membership on this first anniversary was 665, with 89 life members. The elected officers of 1951 continued in office, but they had no real role to play in the official proceedings of NAPUS. (A young Congressman, John F. Kennedy, spoke about the devotion of Postmasters (20,000), "who were paid less than $2,500 a year for a position of high eminence and responsibility in their communities.")

At the San Francisco convention in 1953, only 24 of the 1,151 retired Postmaster members attended the convention. Many felt useless because they had no duties. However, for the first time, state chairmen were named from retired Postmasters in many chapters to work with the national officers. They requested the House Ways and Means Committee to grant to Retired Postmasters an exemption of $2,400 from being taxed on their retirement annuity. Also, associate member dues were raised to $5, $1 of which was to fund the Postmasters Gazette. The remainder was split 60/40 between the national office and the chapters, but no funds went to the Retired Postmasters Association.

The third annual convention of the Retired Postmasters Association of the United States was held at the Benjamin Franklin Hotel in Philadelphia on October 10-14, 1954, during the NAPUS Golden Jubilee National Convention. Membership had grown to over 2,000 with nearly 300 life members. The retirees continued their efforts to help pass legislation for a $2,400 tax exemption on their retirement annuity. Volunteers were sought to edit a quarterly publication of interest to members.

Detroit, MI was the site of the 1955 national convention. Resolution number 11 proposed "increased retirement benefits for retired Postmasters."

Retirement payments under the Civil Service law had not kept pace with the cost of living. They were lower than those paid under Social Security, and had not kept pace with the increase in the amount of the employee's contribution, which started out at 2.5 percent, then 3.5 percent, then to 5 percent, and later to 6 percent.

At the 1956 national convention in New York City, Past National President Isaac Smoot stated, "When you Postmasters retire, keep active and join the Retired Postmasters Association, which now numbers about 4,000 and holds its annual convention each year in connection with NAPUS."

Gazette Editor Arthur V. Smith wrote in the February 1959 issue, "We ought to have more associate members, to enjoy all the rights and privileges of NAPUS membership, except to vote and hold office, for a fee of five dollars annually...We need them their experience, their help and their comradeship. They may no longer be Postmasters, but they will always be our friends."

The 55th national convention was held in Washington, DC in 1959. (One of the notable speakers was U.S. President Dwight D. Eisenhower.) The retirees continued their efforts to help pass legislation favorable to NAPUS.

In 1960, a NAPUS-promoted law extended to retired Postmasters widespread health and hospitalization coverage. It provided a government contribution of $3 to $4 for an individual and $6 to $8 for family enrollment. There were 579 associate members on the rolls. Many of them attended the national convention in Miami Beach in October.

Denver, CO was the site of the 1961 national convention. National Secretary Puskar noted that 814 Postmasters had retired the previous year, but only about 100 had signed up as associate members. He urged chapters to step up activities to retain retirees on NAPUS rolls.

In 1963, NAPUS Historian Rosaline D. Neary of Northome, MN prepared the "History of the National Association of Postmasters of the United States, 1934-1963." Little was said about the retired Postmasters. She noted that the "old-timers" got together at national conventions to greet former Postmaster General James A. Farley at a "Farley Breakfast." He always shook hands with the many retired Postmasters he knew and again declared his interest in NAPUS and the Post Office Department.

Executive Committee member W. R. Morgan of Camden, AR proposed a NAPUS Auxiliary, composed of spouses of members, in 1966. His proposal became resolution No. 8 at the 62nd national convention in Louisville, KY, but there was little enthusiasm for the establishment of a NAPUS Auxiliary. Yet, a member of the "Auxiliary" was named to the National Executive Committee the following year.

The proposal was again discussed at the 1967 national convention in San Juan, PR, and a mail poll was made among the 51 NAPUS chapters. Of the 17 chapters that replied, eight voted in favor, six against and three were undecided. The committee concluded it did not warrant action at the time and referred the study to the Executive Committee for further review.

The April 1968 Gazette noted that a motion had been made for the hiring of a writer to continue Gazette articles for associate members, but the motion stagnated.

At the 1969 Hot Springs, AR national convention, a change in the NAPUS Constitution allowed one retired member to be included on the National Executive Committee. Another change allowed Officers-in-Charge and Acting Postmasters to become associate members.

In 1970, NAPUS National President Bremer Ehrler of Louisville, KY appointed the first retired member representative on the National Executive Committee, Eugene Pinson, a former Postal Inspector, who had served as the Acting Postmaster in New York City. The NAPUS Federal Credit Union also was born that year. At first, associate members were not eligible to join, an oversight corrected the following year. Associate member dues rose to $9 in 1970. At the 1970 Philadelphia convention the title was changed from "auxiliary" to "associate member."

Everett Carpenter of Lake Isabella, CA was appointed associate member on the National Executive Committee in 1971. NAPUS President Ehrler stated in the May 1971 Gazette, "I cannot emphasize too strongly the need that NAPUS has for the wise advice, counsel and guidance of all former Postmasters, and of equal importance is the need of former Postmasters to be members of and to be represented by NAPUS."

About 70 percent of the NAPUS chapters had appointed an associate chairman for their state by the time of the national convention in Anaheim, CA in October and many had extended a vote to them on their executive committee. Over 150 associate members attended the meeting at Anaheim. Agenda items included voting rights within each chapter, representation on the NAPUS Federal Credit Union Board, and how to achieve an increase in associate membership, which had risen to nearly 3,000.
At the Salt Lake City national convention in 1972, the associate members met to reorganize and appointed a steering committee to create a list of recommendations to be submitted to the NAPUS national president, including a change in name to "Postmasters Retired." The objectives of the organization were:

1. To become a real, organic part of NAPUS.
2. To be known as "Postmasters Retired."
3. To have a close association with NAPUS and a share in NAPUS activities.
4. To be granted a vote in all proceedings.
5. To hold its own meetings at future conventions with speakers able to give information pertinent to associate members.
6. To have formal elections of officers -- president and secretary-treasurer.
   The 1972 convention was the first for the registration committee to differentiate between Postmasters, guests, and associate members.

The following year in Kiamesha Lake, NY, the associate members met to review the objectives of reorganization and to elect officers. The president elected was J. Alfred Marquet of Pottstown, PA; Johnnie G. Cornelius of Jasper, AL was elected secretary-treasurer. Dan Quill of San Antonio, TX served as the associate member on the National Executive Board.

In 1974 at the Seattle, WA convention, the Bylaws were presented, resulting in much discussion as to the legality of reorganization and recognition from NAPUS. National President Hal Hemmingsen stated his office would work closely with the group. John Fixa of San Francisco was appointed as the associate member on the National Executive Committee.

The Bylaws were finally accepted the next year at the 1975 Miami Beach convention and presented to NAPUS for approval. J. Alfred Marquet continued as president in 1975 and the new position of vice president went to Ruby Neil Hart, of New Boston, TX. Treva E. Wilson of Valley Center, KS was elected secretary-treasurer.

In the spring of 1976, President John Goodman's reluctance to recognize the organization prompted the retirees to send a resolution to the National President and Executive Committee members. It extolled the efforts of "Postmasters Retired" to retain the honored title of "Postmaster" as a nationally recognized part of NAPUS as well as the retirees' group.

NAPUS members gathered in Minneapolis for the 1976 national convention. Due to the dedicated work of John Hawley of Minnesota, a number of events for Postmasters Retired were included in the program. A breakfast and dinner were scheduled. Working to make the convention a success, the Postmasters Retired solicited cash and prizes, and eventually turned over thousands of dollars profit to NAPUS. There was a membership of over 4,000 associate members in NAPUS. Luella Henry, Bow, WA, replaced Ruby Neil Hart as vice president, and Delma Smith of Louisville, KY was named associate member on the Executive Board.

The year 1977 found NAPUS members in Phoenix for the national convention. A luncheon and meeting was held for retirees with Past President Ehrler as an honored guest. A special registration fee for associate members was discussed. Associates were enlisted in the fight to prevent the merger of Civil Service Retirement and Social Security. John Hawley of Bloomington, MN was elected president, Thomas A. Wood of Wheaton, IL was elected vice president, and Treva Wilson of Valley Center, KS continued as secretary-treasurer. NAPUS voted to return $1 of dues per member to retirees.

In 1977, Norman J. Pope and Joe Hornberger edited the booklet "The History of the National Association of Postmasters 1898-1975, with special emphasis given to the years of 1964-1975." There was hardly any mention of NAPUS Postmasters Retired.

An advisory meeting was held in Washington, DC in February 1978. Paul Garthwaite, associate president, and Joyce Turney, NAPUS national president, gave recognition to the retired Postmasters. Goals and guidelines were set in areas retirees could be useful, including political action and membership. Spouses of deceased associates would now be eligible to be associate members.

That same year, at the national convention in Atlanta, GA, a new awareness of the contributions of Postmasters Retired was realized. Retirees were assigned to convention committees. An Executive Committee was appointed to study how retirees could be involved in NAPUS. A constitutional change provided for funds for the Postmasters Retired organization. The NAPUS Output publication would now be mailed to all retirees. All of these changes were attributed to NAPUS President Joyce Turney.
Postmasters Retired officers serving in 1978-79 were: President Paul Garthwaite of Charles City, IA; Vice President Thomas A. Wood of Wheaton, IL; and Secretary-Treasurer Johnnie G. Cornelius of Jasper, AL. In1979 Postmasters Retired officers were listed in the Gazette with NAPUS National officers.

At the Washington, DC NAPUS Officer's Conference in February 1979, the budget was increased by $1,000 to compensate for legislative assistance by Postmasters Retired. President Turney appointed two retired Postmasters to the National Legislative Committee. An important issue was the proposal for universal coverage under Social Security.

At the 1979 national convention in St. Louis, four amendments to the constitution and bylaws were unanimously approved and for the first time, retirees received a discount on registration.

At the 1980 retirees' Executive Board meeting in Washington, DC, an Advisory Board was formed with one member from each of the postal regions. (A year later the group held discussions to revise the constitution and bylaws to be consistent with those of NAPUS).

During the 1980 NAPUS national convention in Los Angeles, CA, President Wood thanked the retired Postmasters for their extensive work on legislative activities and PEP (Political Education for Postmasters). He said that COLA was safe for another year due to their efforts.

Again, the retirees were commended for their legislative efforts and PEP contributions at the 1981 Oklahoma City national convention. Officers serving in 1980-81 were: President Thomas A. Wood of Wheaton, IL; Vice President Leo C. Huss of Faulkton, SD, and Secretary-Treasurer Harold C. Berg of Atwater, MN.

Harvey Eck, the associate member on the NAPUS Executive Board, stated at the 1982 Executive Board meeting, "I would like to see the title 'Associate' changed to 'Postmasters Retired,'" and also proposed dues withholding. Membership had increased to 11,000 by the time of the national convention in Biloxi, MS in October. Associate dues were raised to $20: $9.50 to NAPUS, $9.50 to the chapters, and $1.00 to Postmasters Retired. Leo C. Huss of Faulkton, SD became president for 1982-83, and John Kvidera of Cary, IL was elected vice president. Harold C. Berg continued as secretary-treasurer until 1985.

In 1983, the title "Postmasters Retired" replaced the title "Associate" in the listings in the Gazette under Executive Committee members. The "Hill Pin" was introduced for a $50 donation to PEP. The NAPUS national convention was held in October in San Juan, PR. Postmasters Retired had come a long way in working with NAPUS. Efforts continued to push for dues withholding for retirees.

At the 1984 Executive Board meeting in Washington, the two foremost issues were dues withholding and the legislative program. Later that year at the national convention in Columbus, OH, Form 1187-R was made available to retirees for 1985 dues withholding. More state chapters were being organized and membership increased to over 12,000. John Kvidera of Cary, IL became president in 1984 and George Owens of Wayland, MA was elected vice president.

At the 1985 Chapter Officers' meeting in Washington, DC in February, it was decided that all Advisory Board members and Standing Committees be reimbursed $100 for attending the meeting. More than 450 retired members and guests attended the luncheon at the national convention in Las Vegas, NV in September. Membership had soared to 14,000. Helen N. McCullough of Mountain, WV was elected secretary-treasurer and for the first time, the past president (Leo C. Huss) became a member of the Postmasters Retired officers and attended Executive Board meetings.

At the 1986 Executive Board meeting, important items discussed were dues structure and low option in NAPUS Health Insurance. Increased costs of publishing the Postmasters Gazette and NAPUS Update created the need for an adjustment in dues. In August, at the national convention in San Antonio, TX, an amendment of the Bylaws raised the dues to $25, of which $2 would be returned to Postmasters Retired. Officers for 1986 were: President George Owens of Wayland, MA; Vice President Richard Thompson of Litchfield Park, AZ; Secretary-Treasurer Helen N. McCullough of Mountain, WV; and Past President John Kvidera of Cary, IL.

Membership had climbed to 16,000 by the time of the Chapter Officers Conference in Washington, DC in February 1987. The two most important items for discussion at the luncheon meeting in Portland, OR in August were raising PEP funds and prevention of closing small post offices, and how retirees could help. E. E. "Bob" Easton of Muskogee, OK was elected secretary-treasurer.

Concerns addressed at the Executive Board meeting in February 1988 were the need for COLA representation, lower registration fees, more recognition for PEP input, and more cooperation with USPS and NAPUS headquarters. The annual luncheon meeting at the national convention in Virginia Beach, VA was held October 19. Certificates of Service were available from the NAPUS national office upon request by the state chapter president to be presented when a member retired. PEP (Political Education for Postmasters) was changed to a more appropriate title of PAC (Political Action Committee). Richard Thompson of Litchfield Park, AZ was elected president for 1988-89, and Harold C. Berg of Englewood, FL was elected vice president.

In 1988, NAPUS published "Postmark America, the Story of the National Association of Postmasters of the United States" with the cooperation of Sylvia Curlee, NAPUS Historian, and Past President Hugh Bates, who served as project advisor for Martin Communications. Again, little coverage was given to Postmasters Retired.

Some of the problems and concerns discussed at the 1989 Executive Board meeting were: closing of small post offices; COLA; 1990 budget; Catastrophic Health Bill; and the Lump Sum (retirement option) Program. A proposed amendment presented at the national convention in San Francisco in September stated, "Retirees should pay 25 percent less than the registration fee for active Postmasters and guests and include all functions." Another resolution urged Congress to develop legislation that would provide a reasonable, economical and long-term health care program to be equitably borne by all the citizens of this nation including retirees and senior citizens.

Myron Woythaler of Holdrege, NE was elected secretary-treasurer of Postmasters Retired for 1989-90. He later became vice president upon the death of Vice President E. E. "Bob" Easton of Muskogee, OK February 6, 1991.

At the February 19, 1990 Executive Board meeting in Washington, DC, NAPUS National President David Hyde and NAPUS Government Affairs Representative Ted Valliere addressed the group. A new position of "Historian" was created. Thelma A. Reynolds, Holloway, MN, was given the post, and her publication (the "Yellow Book") was distributed at the 1990 Niagara Falls, NY national convention. Betty Conway of Warners, NY was elected secretary-treasurer. At year's end, membership had reached 13,766.

In 1991, retirees enjoyed a 5.4 percent increase in COLA, but faced an increase in health insurance. NAPUS dues remained at $25. Large numbers of Postmasters were lured into retirement by the temporary lump sum program. The organization pushed for greater retiree benefits and amendment of the Hatch Act from the 102nd Congress.

At the 1991 national convention in Honolulu, HI in August, Postmasters Retired hosted a hospitality suite in the Honolulu Sheraton. About 375 retirees gathered in the Royal Hawaiian Hotel for their annual luncheon and business meeting. Byron Adams of Wisconsin Rapids, WI was elected president and Myron Woythaler of Holdrege, NE was elected vice president.

Membership grew to 16,983 by the time of the 1991 convention. A change approved in the NAPUS Constitution provided for the president of Postmasters Retired to be a member of the Executive Committee instead of an associate member appointed by the national president.

In 1992, a national committee on post office closings and consolidations was formed. Byron Adams, president of Postmasters Retired, appointed 15 area chairmen, and Jim Miller, NAPUS national president, appointed five members. In the decade from 1964 to 1974, 3,116, or nearly 10 percent of the nation's post offices were closed. By 1984, another 1,155 were closed. Because active Postmasters are not allowed by law to have an active role in post office closings, an intensified effort was initiated by Postmasters Retired to help prevent the wholesale closings of post offices. NAPUS budgeted $10,000 to fund the committee on closings and consolidations.

Nashville, TN was the site of the 1992 convention. An effort to increase the dues for Postmasters Retired was defeated. Other officers in 1992 were Secretary-Treasurer Betty Conway and Vice President Myron Woythaler. Dot Faris of Catawba, SC was elected secretary-treasurer. 420 attended the retiree luncheon. Vice President Woythaler reported membership was 13,591 retired members and 4,872 associate members for a total of 18,463. Over 5,000 Postmasters took advantage of an early-out retirement offered in October. A bonus offer of six months salary proved irresistible to them.

President Byron Adams presided at the Executive meeting during the 1993 Leadership Conference. Agenda items included: closing and consolidation of post offices; membership drive; goals and status of the organization; adjustment of dues and cost of service to each member. NAPUS President Jim Miller remarked, "Postmasters Retired has done a yeoman's job in rebuilding our membership (from the 1992 early-out), in building the most efficient PAC, and helping to maintain the NAPUS family concept."

The 89th national convention was held in Boston, MA, August 14-20, 1993. (Senator Ted Kennedy of Massachusetts spoke and gave strong support for Hatch Act reform and comprehensive health care.) Retirees felt the need for a dues increase to offset increased expenses in their behalf and unanimously supported a change in the bylaws. Myron Woythaler was elected president of Postmasters Retired and Betty Conway was elected vice president.

At the 1994 Postmasters Retired Executive Committee meeting in Washington, Secretary-Treasurer Dot Whiteside reported the current membership at 21,108. Concern was expressed at the closing of post offices, often without apparent regard to following proper procedures. More than 50 retirees attended a training session on preventing closings presided by Walt Borla, Postmasters Retired Coordinator for Prevention of Post Office Closings. NAPUS President David Games noted the appointment of Teena Cregan as Director of Government Relations and said she would also have the responsibility of being NAPUS coordinator of the prevention of post office closings.

On April 7, 1994 NAPUS members were saddened that Myron Woythaler, 72, president of Postmasters Retired, had died of a heart attack. He had served NAPUS in many positions over the years. Vice President Betty Conway assumed the presidency, and Jerry Carr of Greentown, IN was appointed interim vice president.

In August at the national convention in Albuquerque, New Mexico, retired Corydon, IN Postmaster Arvil Weilbaker received the first-ever "NAPUS Lifetime Achievement Award" from Ray Martin, president of Martin Communications, publisher of the Postmasters Gazette. Later that year, NAPUS President David Games appointed Arvil and Barbara Whidden of Umatilla, Florida as co-chairs for the NAPUS Centennial Committee. Weilbaker announced that one of the projects would be an updated history book of NAPUS' 100-year existence.

President Betty Conway assured the Albuquerque convention, "Only a phone call away are 19,000-plus retirees and associate members who are ready and willing to help in the advancement of NAPUS goals. Many benefits that Postmasters enjoy today evolved from the time and efforts put in by the retirees when they were active Postmasters."

A total of 434 attended the luncheon that year and the retiree’s reunion breakfast was also well attended. Howard Foust of Plain City, OH was elected secretary-treasurer. Dues for Postmasters Retired were increased to $30.

On October 3, 1994, H.R. 4190 was signed, allowing postal annuitants to serve as relief Postmasters and relief rural carriers without loss of annuity, a legislative victory for Postmasters Retired. They were also helpful in the defeat of the Penny/Kasich Amendment to H.R. 3400, which would have raised the retirement age to 65 from 55.

President Conway presided at the Executive Board meeting at the 1995 national convention in Chicago. A report showed there were 14,825 retirees and 4,744 associate members as of July 1995, with an ending balance in the treasury of $102,461.13.

Effie Brickhouse of Columbia, NC, and Stella Bowers of Newland, NC, were honored for their long years of service and great contributions to NAPUS: Ms. Brickhouse, the first female NAPUS national president (1967), and Ms. Bowers, just about every NAPUS position possible.

At the retirees' annual meeting in Chicago, Vice President Jerry Carr of Greentown, IN was elected president for 1996-97 and William Dell of Havertown, PA was elected vice president.

The 1996 Executive Board of Postmasters Retired met February 18. President Carr acknowledged the presence of four past presidents of the organization: Byron Adams, Harold Berg, Leo Huss and Betty Conway, as well as Elaine Woythaler, the widow of Past President Myron Woythaler. A committee to revise the Constitution and Bylaws was named: Warren Harden, Sopchoppy, FL, chairman; Gerry W. Osborn, Ainsworth, NE; and Arvil Weilbaker, Corydon, IN.

Carr noted that the NAPUS Executive Board for the prevention of post office closings and consolidations had approved a budget of $25,000. "PAC" donations were also pushed.

At the 1996 national convention in Salt Lake City, retired Vidor, TX Postmaster Marie Johnson was the recipient of the second "NAPUS Lifetime Achievement Award" and lauded for her efforts on NAPUS PAC contributions. Former national chaplain Elisha Layman of Commiskey entertained the 422 members who attended the retirees’ luncheon, IN. A constitutional change increased by one dollar the portion of dues going to Postmasters Retired. Sylvia Curlee of Millry, AL was elected secretary-treasurer. The revised Constitution and Bylaws of Postmasters Retired were approved. (Between 1978 and 1996, the documents were amended a total of ten times.)

More than 65 retired Postmasters attended the 1997 NAPUS Leadership Conference in Washington. President Carr commended Byron Adams of Wisconsin, Walt Borla of Utah and their committee for their work to help prevent post office closings, and Frank Miklozek for keeping the organization up-to-date on legislative matters affecting them. Dues withholding through Form 1187-R resulted in an additional 700 retirees signing up. Membership included 15,223 retired Postmasters and 5,048 associate members for a total of 20,271.

NAPUS members gathered in Philadelphia, PA for the 1997 national convention. The 1998-99 NAPUS Retired officers elected were: Howard S. Foust, Plain City, OH, president; and Kenneth C. Johnson, Beaverton, OR, vice president. Sylvia Curlee, Millry, AL, secretary-treasurer, continued her term through 1998. Foust named Marilyn Duhigg from Galena, IL, as Postmasters Retired editor, succeeding Richard Wenrich. Duhigg made immediate plans to issue a quarterly newsletter to chapter officers.
The 1998 NAPUS national convention was held in Fort Lauderdale, FL, marking the 100th anniversary of the organization's existence. One of the largest groups of retirees attended. About 500 enjoyed the daylong trip on the Sea Escape cruise ship. The cost to each registrant was $10, subsidized by the Retirees' treasury. Diemer Smartt, of McMinnville, TN, was the third recipient of the "NAPUS Lifetime Achievement Award." Warren Harden, Sopchoppy, FL was elected secretary-treasurer without opposition.

The new 482-page NAPUS history book, "A Century of Service to the American People," was available for purchase at the Fort Lauderdale convention, culminating a 4-year exhaustive research by retired Postmasters Arvil Weilbaker (and wife, Deenie) of Corydon, IN, and Nick Questell of Franklin Park, IL. (A nationwide 80+-member committee of active and retired Postmasters also assisted.) Professional services and publication were by Martin Communications, and the NAPUS Executive Committee defrayed some of the project's costs. Chapter 32 of the book traced the origin, development and accomplishments of the Postmasters Retired organization. Much of its contents were adapted into this updated history.

Charlotte, NC was the site of the 1999 NAPUS national convention, one of the few that have shown a profit. Walter Borla, Helper, UT, was the fourth recipient of the "NAPUS Lifetime Achievement Award." A large number of retirees attended the "Queen City" event. A New Year's Eve party on the last night of the convention predated the upcoming millennium, with a midnight drawing of a $2000 prize. The winner of the prize was Jonathan Murray, Bluffton, SC. Murray, as a NAPUS National Vice President in 1996, is credited with successfully arguing on the convention floor that retirees be given one more dollar from dues.

NAPUS Constitution changes affecting retirees included a proposal to award Life Membership to any NAPUS member in good standing upon reaching age 90 (the first recipient was Effie Brickhouse, 94, who served a short term as National President (1967) and as a Postmaster for more than 40 years prior to retirement.); retirees and associates to vote on time and place selection of future national conventions. Kenneth C. Johnson, Beaverton, OR was elected president without opposition, and Ruby Dodd, Round O, SC as vice president.

President Kenneth Johnson presided at the retirees' executive meeting in Washington in February 2000. Membership remained at over 20,000. A new standing rule was approved limiting announcement, handout materials and posters of candidates for national office to not more than one year prior to the election. Committee chairmen and area directors presented reports of their activities.

The 2000 national convention was August 19-24 in Minneapolis, MN. Norma Hollar, Hood, CA, was the fifth recipient of the "NAPUS Lifetime Achievement Award." President Ken Johnson presided over the executive meetings. Reports from officers and area representatives were presented. Secretary-Treasurer Harden urged the retirees' president to request reimbursement from the NAPUS national office to the Post Office Closing and Consolidation Committee (heretofore, paid from retiree funds). A change was sought to expedite membership for Postmasters retiring, without having to sign another Form 1187-R. Janet Austen, Leesburg, OH was elected secretary-treasurer by unanimous vote. Two candidates for president in 2002-2003 announced their intentions: Warren Harden, Sopchoppy, FL and Joe Testa, Palisades Park, NJ. There were 328 retirees registered for the convention.

In February 2001, President Johnson presided at the retirees' functions during the Leadership Conference at the Hyatt Hotel in DC. Routine and special reports from officers and committee chairmen were presented. The year marked the group's golden anniversary. Many attended the national convention at New Orleans, LA in August. The hospitality room reflected the group's 50-year existence with memorabilia displayed. Reports of the previous months activities were given. Warren Harden addressed the concerns of the retirees.

A proposal to permit only one vote for the group in the NAPUS convention, instead of a block vote representing each registered member in attendance, was defeated. Also, Constitution and Bylaws Standing Rule #2 (only one sign per candidate in hospitality room) was deleted; and a proposal to place ballots in delegates' registration packets was defeated.

Warren Harden was elected president; Don Wyatt, Trinidad, TX, vice president, to begin terms January 1, 2002. Stan Ostwinch announced his candidacy for secretary-treasurer in 2003-2004.

The February 17, 2002 Retirees' Executive Board meeting was rescheduled the following morning to allow everyone the opportunity to attend the NAPUS "Town Hall Meeting" at the Washington, DC Leadership Conference. The retirees' Monday general business meeting was unchanged. President Warren presided at both sessions. Vice President Don Wyatt was absent due to illness. Reports from officers and committee chairmen confirmed that retirees' talents were being used in more state chapter activities. Past President Howard Foust was tapped Co-Chairman of membership (over 20,000 members in 2001) by NAPUS President Wally Olihovik.

The secretary-treasurer was commended for her excellent work. The 2002 budget was approved. Retirees Directories were available for state chapters. Claire Babin was recognized for making over 200 vests worn by LA members at the New Orleans convention. Editor Sally Robinson presented President Harden a copy of the first issue of the Newsletter. NAPUS President Wally and Secretary Dale Goff expressed their gratitude for the retirees' good work. Past President Games noted plans for an upcoming Credit Union information package for retirees. Past President Miller gave a legislative report. President Warren discussed the work on post office closings/consolidation, requesting NAPUS to reimburse those personally involved. He also said the committee needs younger helpers. Many changes ahead were expected, with USPS not always adhering to the regulations. A total of 120 retirees attended the conference.

President Warren Harden called to order the annual one-day Executive Board/Business Meetings (a first and a popular change to many) at the August 2002, Las Vegas, NV national convention. Official action was given routine reports. Past presidents present were: Leo Huss, Harold Berg, Byron Adams, Betty Conway, Bill Dell, Howard Foust, and Ken Johnson. Joe Testa, interim vice president appointed by President Harden May 16, filled the vacancy caused by the untimely death of Vice President Don Wyatt March 19.

Board members discussed issues facing the active and retired groups. High costs at the convention put such a strain on the budget the Executive Board voted later to discontinue the annual breakfast. There were 435 registered retirees and a total of 525 at the luncheon. Editor Robinson hoped funds could be found to assure greater distribution of the newsletter. E-mail Coordinator Paul Youtsey taught a class on "Copy and Paste" for the network program. Jim Miller noted the difficult task with lawmakers since the 9-11-01 terrorist event. Betty Eickler reported some progress in keeping post offices open, and urged continued good relationship with elected officials. Total retiree membership was 19,461. NAPUS President Wally and Secretary Goff said the successful opening of the convention as retirees filed in en masse was an important part of the organization. Stan Ostwinch was elected secretary-treasurer by acclamation for a two-year term beginning January 1, 2003. The Constitution (Art. XIII, par. 3) was amended to read: "Proposals not submitted in time can be presented by the Constitution and Bylaws Committee for consideration at the annual convention." An increase in dues, possibly in 2003, was discussed for the organization to more nearly pay its own way. The current $30 amount is split: $5 for retirees; $12.50 to states; and $12.50 to the National, of which $12 is used for the Gazette. President Warren assigned Vice President Testa to design a retirees' flag for use in ceremonies with other state flags.

The year ended on a sad note: Effie Brickhouse, 98, "The First Lady President of NAPUS" (1967), died December 12. An active leader in NAPUS state and national circles for more than 40 years before retirement, she was awarded Lifetime Membership in 1999.

The 2003 Leadership Conference convened March 22-27 at the Omni Shoreham Hotel, Washington, DC. President Warren Harden presided. Routine and special reports were filed. No action was taken on a retirees' flag and banner projected to cost $895. New directories and history books were distributed.

Voting strength of the organization was to be maintained (one vote per retiree registered and in attendance at national conventions). The membership total was 20,434. A challenge to enroll associate members in the active organization rather than the retirees group was thwarted. A proposed dues increase for retirees was discussed, to be presented at the NAPUS convention in August. Editor Sally Robinson noted improvements in the newsletter. NAPUS President Wally Olihovik and Secretary-Treasurer Jim Price addressed the group, thanking especially those retirees appointed to positions of authority in the active NAPUS organization. Legislative Chairman Jim Miller warned of troublesome time ahead, fending off loss of benefits to active and retired employees by Congress' "making a show" of cutting costs. PO Closing and Consolidation Chairman Betty Eikler noted 22 POs were suspended and in danger of being closed. The 2003 budget was approved. Breaking precedent, no breakfast for retirees was planned for the Milwaukee Convention.

Don Gordon, longtime active Postmaster from Golden, CA died April 24 after a lengthy battle with cancer. Nick Questell, Franklin Park, IL, co-editor of the NAPUS 100-year history, also lost his bout August 30, in spite of chemo treatment of lung tumor.

At the 2003 national convention in Milwaukee, WI, the Retirees' one-day business session was on Monday, August 4. A dues increase was approved in the general session on the convention floor Thursday (to be $42 annually; $17.50 to National; $14.50 to States; $10.00 to Retirees). A change allowing PMR's to join NAPUS was passed. Area 4 Representative Ray Diersing reported inauguration of a new "Heroes Award," given to retirees who have made many contributions to NAPUS on local, state, and national levels. It was awarded to Arvil Weilbaker. All enjoyed the annual luncheon and entertainment on Tuesday.

Past presidents, past secretary-treasurers, and past vice-presidents in attendance were recognized. Twelve retiree "first timers" were welcomed.

NAPUS National Secretary-Treasurer Jim Price addressed the group, explained the need for the dues increase, and acknowledged NAPUS Director of Government Relations Bob Levi's hard work and long hours to benefit retirees. President Olihovik was unable to attend due to his conflicting schedule at the Chicago rural carriers' convention.

(Editor's note: The national office later contacted retirees to become more involved in membership recruiting.)

Reports from executive board members and chairpersons were filed. Total membership was said to be 19,259. Janet Austen of Leesburg, OH and Joe Testa of Palisades Park, NJ were elected unanimously for president and vice president, respectively. The unit rule was adopted for the other proceedings.

In closing remarks President Harden thanked his official family for their efforts that made his administration successful. Many reciprocal words of praise to him were expressed, the following excerpts are representative:

"...Warren has done a very good job defending the retirees and standing up for us at the Board meetings."

"...The Retirees' Organization has grown from its infancy into a very dominant force in post office closings, membership, and legislation. Working in cooperation with the active organization, they helped move the Postmasters' Equity Act into law.

Retirees have so much to offer, not only in support, but also in stored knowledge, limitless enthusiasm, and selfless determination to work together for the common good.

It has been my privilege to move from the actives to the retirees while never missing a moment of thanks for the opportunities to serve the NAPUS organization.

There is so much to be said for all the past and present officers and appointees who have given so much of their own time to ensure the future of the postal service and the NAPUS organization, as they, too, moved from active to retiree [status]…. As you read these two histories, keep in mind those who have given so much, and are still working, and those who gave so much, and have gone on to greater rewards….”

The year 2004 proved to be an eventful year indeed for NPAUS Postmasters Retired. Meeting officially twice, first at the Leadership Conference at Arlington, VA in March and the second at the National Convention in Denver, CO during August, important decisions affecting the future of the organization took place.

For the first time Postmasters Relief (PMR’s) became members of the organization under the umbrella of associate members, a new fiscal policy was adopted, some changes in the National Constitution and By/laws were approved and a new National Secretary-Treasurer was elected. Retirees also had the opportunity to participated in the first time historical outdoor legislative rally at the west front of our nation’s capitol in Washington D.C. on Wednesday morning, March 24, 2004.

The Wednesday legislative rally on the lawn of the west front of our nation’s capitol proved to be a spectacular. In reasonably comfortable weather, Postmasters Retired joined active postmasters attending the conference along with many retirees and postmasters from surrounding states in listening to an outstanding array of senators and congresspersons. Among the notable speakers were Senators Spector, Clinton, Collins, Congressmen McHugh, Davis, among others.

Postmasters Retired, over 338 strong, again gathered at the national NAPUS Convention in Denver, CO., August 29-Sept. 2, 2004. President Austen recognized Postmasters Retired Alice Brusich, Alaska; Harold Good, Kansas; Howard Pate, North Carolina and Norma Hollar, California, for 50 years of NAPUS membership. She also recognized Past President of NAPUS Postmasters Retired in attendance, Howard Foust, Ken Johnson, and Warren Harden.

President Austen then introduced the executive board: Vice-President Joe Testa; Secretary-Treasurer Stan Ostwinch; Past President Warren Harden; Executive Board Member Ron Karrels and of course, herself as President. Following this, President Austen introduced the various Area Representatives.
The meeting then moved on to the election of a new secretary-treasurer to succeed Mr. Ostwinch whose term expires on December 31, 2004. Joanne Demke of New Mexico was elected.

In what was probably the most time consuming portion of the meeting, President Austen call upon Joe Balogh for the report from the Constitution and By/Laws Committee. Mr. Balogh presented five proposed changes to the constitution and by/laws. They involved the inclusion of Postmaster Relief as Associate Members, their annual dues, renaming the Finance and Audit Committee to “Financial Audit Committee”’ limiting members of the committee to no more than two consecutive years and the elimination of the present provision calling for the membership of the committee to include the Vice-President and one member who is not on the executive board. The new reading of the provision to read: “The Budget Committee shall consist of the secretary-treasurer and two members to be appointed by the President.”

After considerable discussion the original motion as presented was acted upon favorably by the two-thirds majority required for constitutional changes.

The proposed Fiscal Policy was also eventually approved after considerable discussion.

Mr. Ostwinch announced his candidacy for National President of Postmasters Retired for 2006-2007 and Mr. Ted McCord announced for the office of vice-president for the same years. These offices will be contested at the Long Beach National Convention in August of 2005.

Some of the highlights of retiree activity during the convention surely included the luncheon where Jim Miller acted as Master of Ceremonies in his humorous manner, the unfurling of the new Retiree Banner as retirees marched en masse on the convention floor at the opening session, the speech to the general assembly by President Austen which proved to the most attentive, humorous, sensible and most applauded of any of the convention. Individual retirees coming in for special recognition included Betty Eickler who was presented a “Life Time Achievement” award by President Olihovik and Sally Robinson, who was awarded California’s “Harold McCraw Heritage Award”, a journalism award in memory of the late Mr. McCraw, a former editor of the Postmasters Gazette. One of the highlights of the NAPUS talent night was the NAPUS Band with their star drummer, none other than our own Ralph Zerinque of Louisiana.

History provided by Historian Walt Borla, Hepler, UT.

President


1973-1976 J. Alfred Marquet, Pottstown, PA
1977 John Hawley, Bloomington, MN
1978-1979 Paul Garthwaite, Charles City, IA
1980-1981 Thoas A. Wood, Wheaton, IL
1982-1983 Leo C. Huss, Faulkton, SD
1984-1985 John Kvidera, Cary, IL
1986-1987 George Owens, Wayland, MA
1988-1989 Richard Thompson, Litchfield Park, AZ
1990-1991 Harold C. Berg, Englewood, FL
1992-1993 Byron Adams, Wisconsin Rapids, WI
1994 Myron Woythaler, Holdrege, NE (died 4/7/94, vacancy filled by V. P. (Bylaws)
1994-1995 Betty Conway, Warners, NY
1996-1997 Jerry Carr, Greentown, IN
1998-1999 Howard Foust, Plain City, OH
2000-2001 Kenneth C. Johnson, Beaverton, OR
2002-2003 Warren Harden, Sopchoppy, FL
2004-2005 Janet Austen, Leesburg OH

Vice President
1951-1952 Isaac A. Smoot, Salt Lake City, UT
Michael J. O'Rourke, Beverly Hills, CA
William DeGrasse, Amarillo, TX
1953-1974 (No records available)
1975 Ruby Neil Hart, New Boston, TX
1976 Luella Henry, Bow, WA
1977-1979 Thomas A. Wood, Wheaton, IL
1980-1981 Leo C. Huss, Faulkton, SD
1982-1983 John Kvidera, Cary, IL
1984-1985 George Owens, Wayland, MA
1986-1987 Richard Thompson, Litchfield Park, AZ
1988-1989 Harold C. Berg, Englewood, FL
1990-1991 E. E. "Bob" Easton, Muskogee, OK (died February 6, 1991)
1991-1993 Myron Woythaler, Holrege, NA
1994-4/7/94 Betty Conway, Warners, NY (to Interim President)
4/7/94-1995 Jerry Carr, Greentown, IN (Interim appointment)
1996-1997 William Dell, Havertown, PA
1998-1999 Kenneth C. Johnson, Beaverton, OR
2000-2001 Ruby Dodd, Round O, SC
2002-3/19/02 (died) Don Wyatt, Trinidad, TX
2002-2005 Joseph A. Testa, Palisades Park, NJ
Secretary-Treasurer
1951-1952 Frank L. Egger, Larchmont, NY
1953-1971 (No records available)
1972 John Fixa, San Francisco, CA (Temp.)
1973-1974 Johnnie G. Cornelius, Jasper, AL
1975-1977 Treva E. Wilson, Valley Center, KS
1978-1979 Johnnie G. Cornelius, Jasper, AL
1980-1985 Harold C. Berg, Atwater, MN
1986 Helen N. McCullough, Mountain, WV
1987-1988 E. E. "Bob" Easton, Muskogee, OK
1989-1990 Myron Woythaler, Holdrege, NE
1991-1992 Betty Conway, Warners, NY
1993-1994 Dot Faris Whiteside, Catawba, SC
1995-1996 Howard Foust, Plain City, OH
1997-1998 Sylvia Curlee, Millry, AL
1999-2000 Warren Harden, Sopchoppy, FL
2001-2002 Janet Austen, Leesburg, OH
2003-2004 Stan Ostwinch, Butler, PA
2005-2006 Joanne Demke, Carlsbad, NM
Editor, Postmasters Retired Newsletter
1994-1997 Richard Wenrich, Wernersville, PA
1998-1999 Marilyn Duhigg, Galena, IL
1999-2001 Walt Borla, Helper, UT
2002-2005 Sally Robinson, Ford City, PA
Honorary Member
(Designation for retired Postmasters;
no list available 1898-1930s of NAPUS)
1939-1976 James A. Farley, former PMG (died June 9, 1976)
1945-1972 Harry S Truman, President (died December 26, 1972)
Auxiliary Chairman
(Retired Postmasters appointed (1967) to National
Executive Committee by NAPUS National President)
1967 W. R. "Ritchie" Morgan, Camden, AR
1968-1969 Joseph Hornberger, Manila, AR
Associate Member
(Retired Postmaster, designation only changed [1969]; formerly "Auxiliary Chairman," appointed to Executive Committee by NAPUS National President)
1970 Eugene Pinson, Danville, KY
1971 Everett Carpenter, Lake Isabella, CA
1972-1973 Dan Quill, San Antonio, TX
1974-1975 John Fixa, San Francisco, CA
1976-1977 Delma A. Smith, Louisville, KY
1978-1979 George Owens, Jr., Wayland, MA
1980-1981 Teal Adkins, Beeville, TX
1982 Harvey Eck, Emmaus, PA

Postmaster Retired on Executive Committee
(Designation only changed, 1982, from
"Associate Member,” appointed to Executive
Committee by NAPUS National President)
1983 Harvey Eck, Emmaus, PA
1984-1985 Les Gordon, Warrington, PA
1986-1988 Edward Clarke, Dalton, PA
1989 Ralph Schweitzer, Hill City, KS
1990 Emmett Good, Stanley, VA

(NAPUS Constitution changed, 1991:
Postmaster Retired President to serve on
NAPUS National Executive Committee)
Lifetime Achievement Award
1994 Arvil Weilbaker, Corydon, IN
1996 Marie Johnson, Vidor, TX
1998 Diemer Smartt, McMinnville, TN
1999 Walter Borla, Helper, UT
2000 Norma Hollar, Hood, CA
2004 Betty Eickler, New Paltz, NY
Life Membership
(1999: NAPUS Members Attaining Age 90)
1999 Effie Brickhouse, 94, (deceased 12/12/02.)
***********************************
(In the preparation of this 1898-2004 history of Postmasters Retired, much credit is due to the following):
The late Nick Questell, Co-Editor, et al., Chap.32,"A Century of Service to the American People," 1898-1998;
Thelma Reynolds, Historian, et al., "History of the Postmasters Retired, Natl. Assn. of Postmasters of the United States" 1967-1990;
Dot Faris Whiteside, Historian, et al., "History of Postmasters Retired, Natl. Assn. of Postmasters of the United States" 1950-51 2000;
My understanding and ever-patient lifetime companion of 57+ years, Deenie (who died July 22, 2003), and other family members.
In grateful appreciation to President Warren Harden, Vice President Joe Testa, Secretary-Treasurer Janet Austen (President-elect), Stan Ostwinch (Secretary-Treasurer elect), Editor Sally Robinson, and others whose identity is lost in my memory, I close this history, December 31, 2003.
Sincerely,
Arvil Weilbaker, Historian.