Supporting the Blue Devils Community, Independence Ohio
The Alumni Association, promoting educational memories one class at a time.
Independence High School Alumni
Remembering Gertrude T. Schmidt
Gertrude T. Schmidt, “Trudy”, passed away peacefully on Aug 23, 2026. Gertrude is the mother of alumni Gwendolyn ’68 , Martin ’71 & Michael ’77. She was instrumental in starting the nursery school in town, starred in many shows at the Independence Players and headed up St. Michael’s PTU for many years. A gathering of family and friends will be held on Monday, August 31st. The Funeral Mass will be held the following day,Tuesday, September 1st. Click here or more details and the full obituary.
Officer and Chair Nominations
Gallery Class of 1976 Reunion
Alumni Home Days Photos 2026
Here’s some photos of Alumni at 2026 Home Days.
Jason C. Edwards
February 18, 2003
June 23, 2026
Jason C. Edwards
A talented musician and performer, he will be remembered for his kindness, intelligence, and unique sense of humor.
Jason grew up in Independence, Ohio, where he graduated from Independence High School in 2021. He was active in marching band, concert band, vocal ensemble, and drama club. Jason performed in Independence community theater and enjoyed serving as a band camp counselor.
Jason will be remembered for his ability to connect with crowds and individuals alike, whether friends, family, or strangers. Above all, his powerful and distinctive voice, immense kindness, intelligence, unique sense of humor, and big, beautiful heart will be missed.
Family and friends may gather for a Celebration of Life visitation on Tuesday, July 7, 2026 at Vodrazka Golubski Deliberato Funeral Care, 6505 Brecksville Rd., Independence, from 4 – 8 p.m. Funeral service Wednesday, July 8, 2026 at St. Michael Church, 6912 Chestnut Rd., Independence, Ohio at 12 p.m
Class of 2026 Senior Awards
On May 15, 2026, Independence High School honored the class of 2026 with various scholarships and awards. Alumni President Dale Veverka participated in the event honoring seniors Kayla Newcomer and Hayley Wilson with $1000 awards. Here is the program in its entirety: Independence_High_School_2026SeniorAwardsProgram
2026 Alumni Breakfast In The Park
The I.H.S. Alumni Association Breakfast in the Park is open to all I.H.S. alumni, faculty, students, family, and friends. The event will include great food, raffles, door prizes, and camaraderie! This casual event has become a popular place to catch up with former classmates.
- Date: Sunday, August 9, 2026
- Time: 9 – 11:30 AM
- Tickets:
- Adults: $10
- IHS Students: $5
- Other Students & Children: FREE
Menu: Tony DiGeronimo’s (‘75) famous waffles, sausage, pastry, fresh fruit, coffee, and juice
Location: Kiwanis Pavilion, Elmwood Park 6363 Selig Drive, Independence, Ohio 44131
Reservations are not required and all tickets may be paid for at the door. However, if groups, such as Class Reunions, are planning to attend, please notify Bob Wagner (‘66):
Email: goawagner@aol.com
Phone: 757-202-7750 (call or text)
Homedays Booth Volunteer Sign-up
We are looking for volunteers to help at the Alumni Tent at Home Days on Friday, August 7, and Saturday, August 8! The gig is simple: greet people, have them sign the guestbook, give out alumni stickers, collect membership dues and sell raffle and brunch tickets. Shifts are less than two hours and available on Friday and Saturday. If all shifts are filled you can still come and help out as there’s always people to greet and memories to share!
