This year’s Homecoming alumni marshals heard music playing the day they met. They met in the fall of 1966 on the band practice field at Illinois State University, and it became the backdrop for a love story that is still going strong more than five decades later. Math major Gary Schnurrpusch ’69 served as the Illinois State Marching Band drum major from 1966-1969. It was here that he met clarinet marcher Diane Read ‘70, a home economics major (now known as Family and Consumer Sciences). Three seasons in marching band laid the foundation for a relationship that would thrive through their college years and beyond.
“It took us most of the marching/football season to finally reach a first date,” Gary said. “Finally, we connected for a late fall dance at the old Student Union ballroom, and the rest is history.”
Gary recalls those years with vivid detail.
“Being the ISU Marching Band drum major is certainly a lifelong memory,” he said.
Gary also remembers enjoying snacks between classes in The Cage and the festive Madrigal Dinners in the old Student Union Ballroom. As the lead alto saxophone in the Illinois State Jazz Band, Gary had the unique opportunity to perform with the legendary Clark Terry from “The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson” band during an Illinois State jazz clinic for high schools.
Diane’s memories are equally fond, particularly being one of the first residents to move into Hewett Hall in 1966. This move was more than just a change of address; it marked the beginning of her three years in the marching band and reinforced her commitment to her studies.
Gary was a proud three-year resident of Tri-Towers (one of the first residents in Wright Hall), serving on hall councils, working as a resident assistant, and other musical activities including writing and directing music for Tri-Towers’ stunt show and the VIP pageant for President Bone’s retirement. Gary always credited his band buddies for giving life to his elementary orchestrations. Despite being a math major, he was embraced by the School of Music and successfully pledged Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia (Nu Omicron), the fraternity for musicians.
Diane was equally active. She participated in the Hewett-Manchester stunt show during her sophomore year and served as an honors resident in Hamilton Hall as a junior. As a home economics major, she was part of the first group of students to take classes at the Rambo House without living there overnight.
Gary’s post-graduation path was shaped by the Vietnam War. Although he initially planned to become a high school math teacher, he opted for Navy Officer Candidate School, planning to complete a three-year commitment before returning to teaching. However, life had other plans. After marrying Diane a week after commissioning as an ensign, they started their Navy life together. Gary had a distinguished 28-year career and retired as Captain. His Navy service included commanding three ships, multiple assignments at the Pentagon, and earning a master’s degree in operations research/systems analysis from the Naval Postgraduate School. Post-Navy, Gary continued his service as a Defense Department contractor-analyst, culminating in a 50-year career in defense. His academic and professional efforts earned him several accolades, including the Alumni Achievement Award in 1990 and the Distinguished Alumni Award in 1999.
Diane’s career was also dynamic. She taught home economics before and after having their two sons, balanced with active involvement in military spouse activities and volunteer work at various Navy duty stations. Her educational journey continued with a master’s degree in library and information science from The Catholic University of America (CUA), leading to a 13-year career as a reference librarian at the Defense Technical Information Center. Diane’s professional achievements include presidencies in the Beta Phi Mu Chapter and the D.C. Special Libraries Association, plus co-teaching a course on federal libraries at CUA.
Now semi-retired, Gary remains engaged in Navy-related discussions and serves as an elected trustee for Burke Centre, Virginia. Diane enjoys her retirement as an active member of the Daughters of the American Revolution and several genealogy societies, sharing her expertise in German genealogy through presentations and research assistance.
Gary and Diane’s connection to Illinois State remains strong. They are longtime members of the 1857 Society and contribute annually to the Illinois State Foundation. Gary served on the Alumni Association Board of Directors, and Diane received the Alumni Chapter Volunteer of the Year Award in 2004. Their contributions extend to the Marching Band, Milner Library, the College of Applied Science and Technology, Department of Mathematics, and the College of Education (always teachers at heart).
They have been married 55 years, have two grown sons, three grandchildren, experienced 14 Navy moves, and finally settled in Northern Virginia. Their enduring love for Illinois State is evident in their ongoing support and active involvement.
Gary and Diane Schnurrpusch represent the spirit of Redbird pride, serving as inspiring examples for future generations of alumni.
