Alumni Magazine - Fall 2008 - (Page 21) Paradise Lost The disappearance of John and Elizabeth Calvert Story and photographs by Van Jensen A John and Elizabeth Calvert had settled in a peaceful Hilton Head Island resort. Then, in March, they suddenly vanished. Now, the Harbour Town lighthouse, left, and the resort are clouded by the investigation into their disappearance. deep red sun pierces through clouds on the western horizon, and the sharp dorsal fins of dolphins slice the placid water surrounding Harbour Town on the inland side of Hilton Head Island. Tourists in swimsuits, Bermuda shorts and boat shoes move lazily around the dock, enjoying the warm air and scenic coastal vista. Through a channel lies a circular marina, filled with a small armada of pristine yachts. And around the marina stretches out stucco-sided shops, restaurants, hotels and condominiums, which eventually fade into moss-draped trees. It is deeply peaceful. Serene. The only hint of conflict comes from two guitarists competing for listeners among the dinner crowd. It is no wonder that John and Elizabeth Calvert fell in love with Harbour Town after first vacationing here decades ago, before eventually buying a yacht, then taking over management of the resort in recent years. John, a 1983 mechanical engineering graduate from Georgia Tech, and Elizabeth, a former legal counsel for UPS, created a perfect life for themselves in this idyllic setting. And then, without warning, they disappeared. As the months have dragged on and little information has emerged, everyone who knew the couple is left asking: What happened to the Calverts? The Only Sign of Trouble ohn Calvert’s pledge brothers in Beta Theta Pi call him “quiet and reserved.” Still, he was one of the fraternity’s most active members, organizing events and tailgating before football games. Originally from North Carolina, Calvert always put on “beach music” at dances, says Rich Reynolds, IM 82, a fellow Beta Theta Pi brother. After graduating from Tech, Calvert threw himself into a successful career at Duke Energy J Georgia Tech Alumni Magazine • Fall 2008 21
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