Alumni
Bethel Class of 1996:
Considering the anticipation leading up to our 10th class reunion, it is sad to see that it has already passed and we have to wait another five years to do it all over again.
It’s unanimous—people enjoyed seeing each other at the football game. Many comments were made regarding how many classmates look like they did ten years ago (maybe a little older), but a lot of us had little attachments to us in the form of children. It was fun to meet spouses and kids. Do you recall how we used to talk in the stands during football games and miss all of the big plays? This year we talked in front of the jumping castle and still missed most of the game.
We started the evening reception in CC430. And, as many of you asked, no, it was not a classroom when we attended Bethel. They added “up” on the building. So, although older age has set in, we are not completely losing our minds. After that short gathering, we headed to the gym for dinner (which was pork and not chicken!).
It was fun to take time out and worship the wonderful God who brought us together. Thanks to Nathan and Kim Beck for preparing and leading us in worship. It is always a pleasure to enter His throne room through music. Remembered songs can bring back some pretty powerful memories.
Everyone’s favorite part of the evening was being able to catch up with friends after the dinner. With 67 attending the dinner and program, there were lots of people to visit with and lots of new stories to hear.
Nate and Traci Cox shared some very humorous anecdotes about their time since leaving Bethel. It was fun to laugh at and with them as they described their journey during the past 10 years. It’s amazing to see God’s hand in our lives.
This letter could go on forever detailing the fun of that night. To relive the experience, check out the photos linked at the top of this page.
In closing, the committee would like to thank each member of the class of 1996 for the impact you have made in our lives. We would not be who we are today if we had not spent time at Bethel. Our prayers go with you.
The 1996 Reunion Committee,
Naomi Larson (and John unofficially), and Mark and Laurie Ratzlaff
P.S. Mark made it back from the bonfire.

1996 reunion planning committee members are:
(Left to right)Mark Ratzlaff, Gail Hansen Wolff, Laurie Tobisch
Ratzlaff, Aaron VanAlsine
Not Pictured: Naomi Rypkema Larson
We’re missing contact information (address, phone, and email) on some of your classmates. If you know an alumna(us) listed below and would like them to receive information on your class reunion, please email or call alumni@bethel.edu or call 651.638.6462 (metro) or 800.255.8706 ext. 6462.
|
First Name |
Maiden |
Last Name |
| Matthew | Anderson | |
| Natasha | Babushkina | Babushkina-Patz |
| April | Beckman | Wertish |
| Jonathan | Dinsmore | |
| Kurt | Goble | |
| Tara | Hendrickson | |
| Jodi | Lawrence | |
| Jason | Little | |
| Christina | Mara | |
| LecyAnne | Oliveira | Marino |
| David | Peters | |
| Rachel | Rubin | |
| Amy | Rudolph | Buskerud |
| Stephanie | Rust | Ryding |
| Tessa | Stofer | |
| Kristen | Winter |