To the editor:

In June 1973, Bruce Fenske and I started our “full-time” jobs at the New Ulm Journal the same day. I, fresh from graduation Friday at Mankato State, started on Monday and walked in the door for what was then called “orientation” for my 90-day probationary hiring as assistant sports editor for Donnie Brand and education reporter for Bill Macklin. Bruce was the second person to greet me, after Donnie. He left a lasting impression.

Although my career as a newspaper journalist in New Ulm was only for two years, heading for “the cities” to continue my career in communications, I will never forget the warm feeling Bruce (and his family) gave to a 21-year-old young adult trying to become the next Sid Hartman.

Bruce was everything everyone has said about him in recent weeks. He was funny, smart-working, committed to the community, intelligent and dedicated to local journalism. In the late 1980s when I asked him to help me start a girls’ basketball camp with Clemette Haskins (Clem’s daughter) he gladly made it happen and we used New Ulm High School for two years. He was always one who looked for a way to get something done. It was great getting re-acquainted again.

Although we took different paths after 1975, I’m proud to have known him. He re-enforced my belief in strong community journalism. I only wish I had spent more time cultivating that early friendship.

Den Gardner

New Prague

Gardner & Gardner Communications

(Proud alumnus of New Ulm Journal – 1973-75)