Echoes of '86: The Stories Behind the Smiles

From the Heartland to the Coastline

Robert grew up in Kansas City, but the ocean always called to him. After graduation, he made his way to Los Angeles, where he built a career, started a family, and never looked back.

At CHS, Bobby was more than just our Class President—he was the heartbeat of the Class of ’86. He embodied the Yellowjacket spirit and, let’s be honest, may have even outshone Pedro in popularity.

Today, Bobby lives in San Francisco, a proud father of two, movie buff, and occasional salsa dancer.

Still leading and still dancing. Still Bobby.

Now Rosemarie Barash.

If you grew up in the 80s and anywhere near the Center School District, chances are you knew the Spalitto name. 

Rosemarie (Ro) is a proud member of the Spalitto family—and she is still that warm, smiling presence you couldn’t forget.

Born and raised in Kansas City, Ro spent her entire childhood in the same neighborhood, under the watchful eye of a devoted mother with a smile that lit up the block and a father whose pharmacy served generations. Surrounded by her big brothers and a revolving door of friends and neighbors, Ro’s home was more than just a house—it was the place to be.

An invitation to her home meant laughter as kids bounced from the trampoline to the pool, or the smell of fresh popcorn, and on especially lucky days, a snow cone straight from Mr. Spalitto himself. Hospitality was second nature to Ro—and she’s carried with her every step of the way.

After high school, Ro followed in her father’s footsteps and pursued a degree in pharmacology, earning her graduate degree with the same determination that’s defined her life. But it wasn’t long before love came calling. She met her husband, started a family, and traded lab coats for lunchboxes—raising three incredible daughters with grace, humor, and the kind of love that shines.

These days, Ro is as proud as ever of her daughters—cheering them on with the same energy and belief in good things to come as they enter adulthood and reflecting with joy on a well-lived life. And if you’re looking for her on a Saturday morning, check the courts—Ro’s a platinum member at Chicken N Pickle, where she serves up smiles and drop shots with the same charm she’s always had.

She’s still the same Ro through it all: generous, thoughtful, and ready with a smile that hasn’t aged a day. And as the reunion approaches, she’s excited to reconnect with the classmates and memories that shaped her early years.

Ro Spalitto is synonymous with kindness, community, and that unmistakable feeling of being home.

If you hear a big laugh from across the room, chances are it's Eason. His laugh is contagious—and so is his energy. 

Back in the day, Eason was everywhere: Band Concert VP, Marching Band President, Choirs, Show Choir, Football, Swimming, 87th Street Gang, Gentlemen Songsters, Jazz Ensemble, and every play you can think of - he was in it all.

And of course, let's not forget Just American Boys—only the greatest band on the planet (at least according to us). With Shawn, John, Darren, and Eason rocking 80s covers and a few originals, they were legends in the making.

Today, Eason still hasn't slowed down. He lives in Kansas City with his wife and is a proud dad. He still picks up the guitar when the moment strikes - he'll even send you a video of your favorite tasty lick —and if there's a concert in town, there's a good chance Eason's there, Rush, Styx, Def Leppard, U2, Wham—you name it. Oh, and if you ever want to know what's playing on Hair Nation, Eason's probably already texted you.

A true friend to all, Eason brings the party and the playlist.