Pension and Other Post-Retirement Benefit Matters Pension and Post-Retirement Benefits on Balance Sheet (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 31, 2013	Oct. 31, 2012
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Long-term benefit liabilities	$ 21,287	$ 32,819
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Other accrued expenses	(3,650)	(3,480)
Long-term benefit liabilities	(20,522)	(31,955)
Total	(24,172)	(35,435)
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Other accrued expenses	(99)	(92)
Long-term benefit liabilities	(795)	(848)
Total	$ (894)	$ (940)