Wow, the parallels are uncanny.
We started with 20 guys in '03, we are currently down to 4. Used to be the first ones in the lot by 7am, now we meet around 8 and shoot for the lots at 8:30-9. Same as you, some of the old gang will come to a game or two, tailgate and swing by our seats during the game.
I'm the most dedicated guy in the group and like I said, the energy gets a little lower every passsing year.
Circle of life.