"Other than my parents, Gene was probably one of the most influential people in my life," Ratliff says. "The important part of the experience was not the fact that we played the accordion, but the things that came along with it. He was able to motivate and create discipline in us, and those are vital things to learn."
                                               - Rebecca Ratliff  1998

 

Dear Gene

I am very proud to say that I was a member of the Gene Van Symphony--we played some great music and sounded fantastic! Those were some of the best memories of my life!

So I am grateful to you and to my parents for giving me the opportunity to learn to play the accordion and becoming a better person because of it.

Many good wishes and good health to you always.

Sincerely,

                                                                                   Rebecca Hums Ratliff

Barbara Hums with twin sister Becky Hums  2002	Becky Hums, Lisa Van, Barbara Hums & MaryAnn Gerstbauer Van
With students at awards banquet	Laura Van, Jessica Faltot and Becky Hums
Barbara Hums at awards banquet	Click to enlarge - Early photo of Van and Bob Bilski