Pat Osterberg is 60; band reunites

The Osterberg family, Pat, Cate, Dick, Steve, Steph, and Sonny singing the National Anthem.

John Herdan reports:

I attended Pat Osterberg's 60th birthday party last Saturday night. Pat actually turned 60 on St. Patrick's Day (makes it easy to remember) but the party included another special event. Pat's daughter Cate arranged to have a reunion of Pat's former show band, "Caste," that night. Four of the five original members of the band were there plus their very first drummer who left before they became famous (not Pete Best).

The three singers up front were Pat Osterberg ('66), Stephanie (Sonstegard) Osterberg ('68), (left) and Gerry Hesse ('67). Click on the photos above to enlarge them.

Mike Thornton ('67) was the original drummer. He was replaced when they went on the road by Terry Ray. Terry (class of '75 - picture at left) was only 15 when he started to travel and Steph was actually his teacher until he finished high school. As a professional music judge, it is my opinion that Terry is still one of the most tasteful and musical drummers I've ever met. Bev Witt was the orginal keyboard player. Her part was well covered by Kevin Lee Saturday night.

At the end of the evening they did take one request. Pat, his dad Sonny, and his two sons, Dick and Stephen, have sung the national anthem at the Metrodome for Minnesota Gopher football games. Saturday night they were joined by Steph and Cate. A spectacular finish and a great way to get a standing ovation. The large crowd showed their approval for quite a while. Thanks to Pat and Steph's kids, especially Cate for putting on a great party. Lots of friends, lots of memories.

Among the attendees were, above, Burke Kiger ('66), Mike Thornton ('67), Bill Luethner ('67). By the way, the party was held at the Geneva Golf Club where Jerry is the chef. If the food Saturday was any indication, I would plan on eating there this summer.