In the mid-80’s, as the founders of the Kettering Hospital and the Church approached their senior years and the end of their careers, many suggested to the Kettering pastors that an effort be made to create opportunities for socialization and fellowship for its senior members. A plan was drawn up to create an organization operated by the seniors themselves called the Buckeye Golden Age Fellowship. Financial support would not come from the church; rather, the seniors would pay annual dues for their regular activities.

An announcement appeared in the church bulletin in November 1984 that invited “all retirees and soon to be retirees to a meeting on December 8 in the fellowship hall to elect the 1985 chapter officers.” Eugene Cowling was voted to be the first president, Ruth Thompson its treasurer. Other members were to help plan potlucks, Sabbath afternoon walks, socials and other activities for anyone 50 years and older, including occasional bus trips to sites within a hundred-mile radius. The first bus trip was in June 1985 to Bardstown, KY to enjoy the Stephen Foster Story outdoor play. These trips have become a much-anticipated annual event.

Originally, leadership of the group was shared by many beloved founders now deceased: Al & Betty Brendel, Lou Turner, Glen Bylsma, Pat Davis, Willa Hedrick, and Ray Doyle. Special mention goes to Marjorie Seasly for her 15 years of service as treasurer. One person that energized the group for years was Elinore Meyers, who was very energetic and loved to sing and laugh. On the second bus trip in 1987 to Chillicothe to watch the outdoor play Tecumseh, she led the participants in a rousing sing-fest in route. Elinor was well known for organizing fun; she informally led a group of women who every Sabbath Spring to Fall packed a sack lunch to eat while walking the local park trails. They called themselves “The Bag Ladies.”

At some point early on, the leadership decided to shorten our name to Golden Buckeye Fellowship and the annual dues were dropped in favor of charging admission for each event. With the creation of new SDA congregations in the Dayton area, such as Centerville and Miamisburg, membership in the club expanded until today all SDA churches in the Greater Dayton area are included. The Golden Buckeye Fellowship is an inclusive organization; we welcome anyone 50 years and older from our community to participate in our activities.

Finally, special recognition is given to Stan & Edith Applegate for serving as both president and social director for many years. They set the standard for activities within our club and community, as well as capably leading our annual bus trips.

By Dan Stevens