Ranquette's passing a loss of local luminary
Dennis Grall
ESCANABA — The passing of Bob Ranguette marks the second departure of an old area luminary this year. U.P. Sports Hall of Famer George Shomin of Escanaba died May 29. Ranguette, 82, died Aug. 21. After serving in World War II, he played basketball for two years at Michigan State University Frank Rodman of Hermansville said “I consider Bob Ranguette possibly the finest center in U.P. sports history, for the 1946-56 era for sure.” Rodman, the face of the Hermansville Gold Medal Classic independent basketball tournament for most of its 70 years, vividly recalls Ranguette’s performances along with so many other outstanding players of that time. “He was a rebounder, he could play the pivot, and he had a helluva hook shot,” said Rodman. “Basketball competition at the time was the best, it was top notch. Ranguette was the best because he played in the best era.” Rodman put Ranguette ahead of fabled Mel Peterson of Stephenson and Tony Machalk of Hermansville at the pivot.
» Full StoryBMX racting returns to Trenaray track
TRENARY — A field of 18 riders in five motos participated in races at Trenary Lions Park Wednesday.
7 Novice - 1, Andrew Niemi, Marquette; 2, Beau Rondeau, Limestone; 3, Mathew Johnson (3 years old).
Saturday's sports shorts
U.P. prep scores
Football
Escanaba 35, Gaylord 22
Gladstone 20, Sault Ste. Marie 14
Menominee 30, Wrightstown, Wis.
Sports Den: U.P. Hall nod a shock
ESCANABA — Bob Wallenstein was flabbergasted to learn he has been selected for the Upper Peninsula Sports Hall of Fame.
“I thought my time had long since passed,” said Wallenstein.
Sports Den: A new Marinette ace
ESCANABA — The Menominee Maroons have always been a primary rival for prep teams from Escanaba, and to a lesser degree from Gladstone.
» Full StoryDupart family shines
ESCANABA — Thirty years ago Dave Dupart was tearing up the gridiron and hardwood at North Central High School. Now his sons are doing the same thing, one in football and one in baseball.
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