Meet five guys from the Class of 1987 who met in the marching band their first year at ONU. Forty-two years later, they are still marching in step as best friends. Their friendship is marked by annual traditions, mini-trips, and grand adventures every milestone birthday.
Bob Zigmund, BSEE 87, Brian Knotts, BSBA 87, Pete Krause, BSME 87, Steve Osborne, BSBA 87, and Tom Ryan, BM 87, bonded over music and food at ONU in the 80s.
In those early years, theyd stay up late talking about everything from basketball to rock bands to the Cold War. They shared countless meals and played intramural sports together.
Three of the friends found love at ONU. Tom met his wife, Linda (Knecht) Ryan, BA 87, Pete met his wife, Beth (Breitzig) Krause, BSPh 90, and Bob met his wife, Lisa (Rowland) Zigmund BSCE 88, during college.
After graduation, the five friends stayed close.
We kept those connections going over the years, and we still do, said Bob.
Each year, the group gathers at Pete and Beths home to celebrate the Fourth of July, and again in early December to herald the holiday season. They make a point to attend ONUs Homecoming & Reunion Weekend whenever they can.
Over the years, theyve continued to make memories: attending comedy shows and concerts (Kansas and Eric Clapton among them); going Christmas shopping as a group; spending occasional weekends simply enjoying each others company; and taking vacations together.
These friends are the closest friends Ive had in my lifetime, said Pete.
Their most cherished tradition? Celebrating every birthday milestone with unforgettable trips.
At 30, they cruised the Bahamas. At 40, they teed off at the famous Oglebay Resort in West Virginia. Turning 50 led them to Louisville, Kentucky for a Bourbon tour. This past summer, they celebrated 60 with a 14-day Alaskan cruisetheir most scenic adventure yet.
And theyre already planning the next onefor age 65.
Were not going to wait until were 70, said Bob. Life is too short.
All five credit ONU for giving them friendships that have enriched their lives.
We all love Northern and thats the bottom line, said Steve. ONU was a great building block for us, and it led to good lives.
