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John Honadel '90 and Diann (Dommel) Honadel '90

John and Diann with their niece in 2007.

Where and how did you meet at UW-Eau Claire? In 1989 we shared a technical writing course. Diann forgot her book one morning (earliest course she ever took), and John let her look on in his book. Recognizing a good deal, Diann permanently forgot her book and looked on with John through the remainder of the class.

Was it a “love connection” at first? In our own quirky way, maybe. After every technical writing class, Diann, John and their friend Jim headed to the Blugold commons to joke around and talk. Jim didn’t recognize the attraction hidden underneath all the kidding around and was surprised when we became a couple.

Who made the first move? We bumped into each other on a Monday night at Shenanigan’s on Water Street. It was John’s 21st birthday, and John asked Diann out for the following Saturday night. Diann happened to know it was his birthday that evening, so it depends on what you consider a “first move.”

John and Diann before the Viennese Ball, 1990

Special place on campus: The Blugold commons, where we initially began our friendship.

Fondest memory as a couple that connects you to UW-Eau Claire: Diann knew that John really cared for her since he was willing to climb “the Hill” repeatedly to see her, even though he lived off campus.

How long have you been married? We’ve been married for 15 years now and share our lives with two awesome sons, Jake and Zach.