At least one other class has kept a canoe trip tradition alive. According to Ken Cox (D.D.S. '69), about 25 members of the Class of 1969 have been gathering for 57 years to go on annual canoe trips.

"We never miss a year," Cox said. "We've even spread ashes on the creek for two classmates who passed away."

At this year's MDC, 23 class members attended their 55th reunion.

"So many favorite memories from reunions," Cox recalled. "I can't even begin to tell you."

Cox practiced dentistry in the Ruskin/Hickman Mills area of Kansas City for 50 years. Throughout that time, his School of Dentistry connections have helped him in numerous ways. "I was very sick one year, and a couple of younger dentists from UMKC came in and took over my practice for me," Cox said. "Dentistry couldn't have been better for me."