50 Years at the Helm

YEARS at the

HELM

LOVINGLY ASSEMBLED BYFRIENDS + FAMILY

50Y E A R S

H E L Mat the

for

WILLIAM + MARILYN HELM

ON THEIR 50 TH ANNIVERSARY,

A PAIR WHO LOVE + GIVE ENDLESSLY.

03

I F B I L L S AY S J U M P, M A R I LY N S AY S :

A . “ N O WAY ! ” B . “ I ’ M T H E G E N E R A L , M I S T E R ! ” C . N O T H I N G — S H E ’ S A L R E A D Y J U M P E D I N T O L A K E O N T A R I O

C. NOTHING — SHE’S ALREADY JUMPED INTO LAKE ONTARIO

This book exists because countless friends and family rifled through old photo albums, shared cards, sentiments, poems, even songs and drawings to celebrate their longtime rela-tionships with Bill and Marilyn. Thank you for making this book possible!— THE HELM FAMILY

PHOTO COURTESY OF

COLIN + ELAINE FABIAN

50 YEARS

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B I L L ’ S FAV O R I T E C O L O R I S :

A . W H A T D O Y O U M E A N ? B . E N G I N E E R S D O N ’ T H AV E FAV O R I T E C O L O R S . C . R A I N B O W

B. ENGINEERS DON’T HAVE FAVORITE COLORS.

MARILYN IRENE HELM What was your first impression of Bill?At a Wednesday night bible study at the Kev house-hold. I was favorably impressed, but I was only 15. Grandpa was in Detroit for university at Wayne State University … he went to Western in London and he thought “Enough of this!” and he quit; then regretted his decision. He came to Detroit because their college had semesters, and he could start in January instead of waiting till next fall in London to start again.

How did you begin dating?We used to bomb around in Ronnie’s convertible and I can’t remember how we started dating!

And do you remember how you got engaged?We were in the backseat of Ronnie’s convertible!

Ronnie’s convertible seems to be a key element in your story! What color was it? Do you remember the kind of convertible? White. A Ford I think? Bill? What kind of car did Ronnie have?

How did you know Bill was the one?I can’t tell you — but it was positive. It wasn’t one thing, it was everything about him.

Was it the lavish gifts he gave you?[Laughter] Definitely not!

What was your wedding like? I was excited! It was a small one, at mom and dad’s. We had a reception afterwards, the house was full. And then my dad had a heart attack — probably because his favorite daughter was leaving. [Laughter] I don’t know what he had a heart attack, maybe stress. He probably ate too much for starters. But he liked Bill, it wasn’t anything against Bill.

How long into your marriage until you had your first child? Do you remember how it changed or effected your marriage?I think Debi was born in ‘67, I’m pretty sure. We loved her to death. I’ll tell you one thing: grandpa was driv-ing home from the hospital for the first time. And he was going so slow! I said “What are you doing?” But he had this precious cargo in the car and he was trying to protect it! He never liked babies, he said, “They have no teeth! “ But then he had his own babies.

If you had to live by one rule to keep a marriage successful, what would it be? First of all you have to be in love. That covers a lot. You have to forgive and forget. Grandpa was really good at helping me with that.

How do you keep romance in your marriage?I Being kind and loving to each other. Being very thoughtful and caring to one another. We are still in love.

What do you know now about marriage that you wish you had known 50 years ago?? I don’t think anything!

How do you keep romance in your marriage?I Being kind and loving to each other. Being very thoughtful and caring to one another. We are still in love.

Did your parents’ marriage teach you anything about your own marriage? Yes. They loved each other. It was very obvious in ev-erything they did. They smiled at each other, they held hands, you could just tell they loved one another. They tried to please each other. That was normal to me.

WILLIAM NORVAL HELMWhat was your first impression of Marylin?She was a young pretty girl!

How did you begin dating?I don’t know if I remember that. Um. Well I would sus-pect this is probably right: Ronald Jacubus was a com-mon friend, we did a lot of things. We would pick up the girls and go around together. The top would be down. Grandma might have a different view point.

And do you remember how you got engaged?We were sitting in Ronnie’s car talking. I’m not a person who does anything in a big way, no proposal in a heli-copter. We were just sitting in a car talking, and that’s when I asked her to marry me

Ronnie’s convertible seems to be a key element in your story! What color was it? Do you remember the kind of convertible?1957 White Ford convertible, red interior, black top! A beautiful car, it was only a three or four years old at the time.

How did you know Marilyn was the “one”?Now that’s interesting! I think it was her kindness and consideration of others. She wasn’t selfish. She used to pay attention to me. [Pause] And she was attractive. She was blonde, I liked blondes. She was very loyal.

What was your wedding like? It was a small, mostly family wedding. Held in the Kevelighan home. A justice of the peace came. Was I nervous? No I wasn’t nervous, I was excited. I don’t think I was nervous — that’s a 50 year recall!

How long into your marriage until you had your first child? Do you remember how it changed or effected your marriage?We were married in November of ‘64 and Debi was born two and a half years later. I remember that Debi was an extremely cute baby, they called her the Gerber baby. She was the oldest grandchild and she got a lot of atten-tion from everybody, wherever we went. We were proud of that. When she was three months old, she had some medical problems, but that was resolved. Our daughters’ births pulled us together, we both loved our children and never cease to.

If you had to live by one rule to keep a marriage successful, what would it be?Respect for your spouse. Full respect. And I guess that implies selflessness. Grandma was absolutely selfless.

How do you keep romance in your marriage? Probably one of the things I was poor at was thinking about her. The way I am, if things are fine, they’re fine and I only do something if there’s a problem. You have to put effort into it. You have to assure all the time, pay attention all the time. I learned with time, I know it now, to give constant assurance: to know that I love her, that I am thinking of her. You don’t have to do very much, you just stop at the store and get some flowers, just show you’re thinking of her.

What do you know now about marriage that you wish you had known 50 years ago??Major respect for your spouse.

Did your parents’ marriage teach you anything about your own marriage?I don’t remember much about their marriage, I was ten when my dad died. I’m sure it must have done some-thing. If I think about my dad, he was not a boisterous, conceited, arrogant or selfish person. He was quiet, considerate, I think he considered my mother. He was serious about life. I suspect that as a couple they never argued or squabbled or debated, at least that we saw. As a ten year old I don’t remember that. It seemed happy and settled. My parents instilled a self confidence in us. We didn’t have a lot of money, but we never had issues about that, no worries. It wasn’t a focus. Our needs were met. It gave us assurance.

D A T E O F B I R T H

C I T Y O F B I R T H

PA R E N T S

S I B L I N G S

F I R S T J O B

November 28, 1946

Detroit, Michigan

Thomas + Tillie Kevelighan

The credit department of

a bank in Detroit

Six!

D A T E O F B I R T H

C I T Y O F B I R T H

PA R E N T S

F I R S T J O B

S I B L I N G S

C O L L E G E M A J O R

INT

ER

VIE

WS

F AV O R I T E M E A L

VA C A T I O N S P O T

C O F F E E D R I N K

B I L L ’ S FAV O R I T E C O L O R ?

Going out to eat!

We love going to St. Maarten, just the two of us, relaxing. Sun, water, romance, and doing nothing!

Cappucinos

Well I can tell you what it used to be: a putrid green! He had one shirt that color and wore it constantly! I re-placed it, and he just put on that old shirt! Ugh! Let me ask him what his favorite green color is: olive green.

January 9, 1941

Kincardine, Ontario

Joseph Clifford + Marjorie Isobel Helm

Township of London as a surveyor

EngineeringThree!

FAV O R I T E M E A L

VA C A T I O N S P O T

C O F F E E D R I N K

M A R Y L I N ’ S FAV O R I T E C O L O R ?

Everything! Marilyn’s chicken divan

With all the family! And sailing in the Caribbean!

Sometimes cappuccino, sometimes express, depends on how I feel. In the mornings I usually have a long coffee. I don’t have a favorite, it depends on the occasion. Espresso will always go pretty well with me.

Probably blue or turquoise? But lately she’s really going for lots of black.

50 YEARS

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50 YEARS at theHELM

WILLIAMHELM KEVLIGHAN+

b 1941 b 1946

m 1

956

LORINDAMICHELLE +

m 1997+

m 1988

philippejames LAFRENIEREDISHER

DEBORAH+

m 1985

+

m 2012

thomasTAYLOR

STEPHENSONlawrence

talin

b 1989

b 1991

b 1978

b 1978

b 1967

b 1969 b 1971

b 1973

b 1969

b 1995

b 1996

b 1998

b 2001

ki�y taylor

coco taylorheidi taylor

rosie taylor

moose taylor

RIP

RIP

amber helmsheba helm

bailey helmRIP

abby dishershiloh disher

RIP

b. 2013

ella lafreniere tia lafreniere

b 1999b 2001

b 2003

O N T A R I O

O H I O

C A L I F O R N I A

V I R G I N A

M A R Y L A N D

N E W J E R S E Y

C O L O R A D O

N E W Z E A L A N D

07

FAM

ILY

TR

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Helm + Kevlighan heritageD U T C H

I R I S H

S W E D I S H

E N G L I S H

S C O T T I S H

W H I C H FA M I LY M E M B E R I S A N A T I V E F R E N C H S P E A K E R ?

A . C A L E B D I S H E R B . L AW R E N C E S T E P H E N S O N C . P H I L I P P E L A F R E N I E R E

C. PHILIPPE LAFRENIERE

Fun fact

G R A N D C H I L D R E N H AV E T A K E N S A I L I N G L E S S O N S A T B R O N T E H A R B O R I N O A K V I L L E , O N T A R I O

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CHARLENE OULTON

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COURTESY OF

CHARLENE OULTON

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COURTESY OF LORI LAFRENIERE

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COURTESY OF

LORI LAFRENIERE

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For there is no friend like a sisterIn calm or stormy weather; To cheer one on the tedious way,

To fetch one if one goes astray,To lift one if one totters down, To strengthen whilst one stands.— CHRISTINA ROSSETTI

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Sisters function as safety nets in a chaotic world simply by being there for each other.— CAROLE SALINE

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COURTESY OF LORI LAFRENIEREThere there is love — there is life.— MAHATMA GANDHI

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Grandparents are there to help the child get into mischief they haven’t thought of yet. — GENE PERRET

PHOTOS THIS PAGE

COURTESY OF

LORI LAFRENIERE

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Never have children! Only grandchildren.— GORE VIDAL

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LORI LAFRENIERE

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LORI LAFRENIERE

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LORI LAFRENIERE

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LORI LAFRENIERE

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When I sift through all the many wonderful memories of our lives, the one thing that stands out to me above everything else is how secure, protected and special it has always felt to be your daughter. Everything and everyone that is part of our immediate and extended family is like a giant foundation of love and warmth and happiness that has always surrounded me and supported me.

I love all the stories about our family: how Grandpa & Grandma Hart-hoorn found God and how faithful they were all their lives to God and to each other. How Grandma Helm kept faithful even after she was all

alone, and her relatives tried to per-suade her to leave the truth. I love when people tell me (and many people do) how much they loved being at Grandpa & Grandma Kevelighan's house, and what loving elders they were. I love remem-bering how concerned Grandma Helm was to be and do what was right, not be-

cause she wanted to conform, but because of how much she respected her Creator. I loved being at my grandparents, surrounded by aunts and uncles and cousins, and being enveloped by love and belonging.

I loved the big and small things we did together: hiding from dad when he came home from work, making Christmas cookies to take to special meeting, having unusual treats when we had a babysitter, like chips and pop, and hearing dad play the piano after we went to bed. I loved that dad went to Europe and Australia, and told us all about it, and that mom made jam, and decorated cakes, and learned rug hooking. I loved the lively, fun sings we had, playing violin together, camping, and having sleepovers at the Morton's. I loved how mom worked at convention, so

fast and and full of cheerful conversation. I loved the rain boots we wore at convention, and the warm, congenial atmosphere when people came over to our trailer to visit. I loved that Mrs.Gustafson taught mom how to crochet, that mom chatted with Dot on the phone so much we all knew their number by heart, that we went on trips with the Mortons and that Mike & Edna were our friends. I loved going to Harry & Muriel's for meet-ing, and all the wonderful friends we shared our lives with growing up.

After I left home, you continued to provide love, warmth and happiness. I could always depend on you for support, and you somehow managed to convey your values without ever being critical. I love how much Hal-ey and Caitlyn love to be with you, and how you created the same loving environment for them that I enjoyed with my grandparents. I love all the special times we've had with John & Gill, in Ohio and Ontario. I love bringing our friends to your house, because it is always so full of warmth and fun and life. I love that you have so many warm, real friendships with other couples, and I feel enriched to be able to enjoy these friend-ships with you. I love the trips we've taken together that are treasured memories: Florida, Chicago, Hungary, Palm Springs, and the restau-rants we've loved with you: Marche, and the cafe downtown Oakville that makes the best croissants in the world, Bahn Thai, and when Haley & Caitlyn were little, the Spaghetti Warehouse in Toronto. I love that you always brought bugles to convention for Haley & Caitlyn to eat in the sleeping quarters, and that you have always been so interested in them and their lives. I love that you bought Talin the same Tupperware toy we played with when we were little. I love all the times you came to visit us, always overflowing with food and cheerfulness and helping us way beyond what adult children could ever expect.

— L O V E , D E B I

ONE TH IN G THAT S TANDS OUT

TO ME ABOVE EVERY TH IN G E LSE

I S HOW SECURE , PROTECTED AND

SPEC IAL I T HAS ALWAYS FE LT TO BE

YOUR DAUGHTER .

Love, warmth and happiness

Note from Sheli here!

— LOVE, SHELI

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In my world growing up there’s love surround-ing me everywhere and all the time.

In my world growing up there’s enough food to eat, and it’s always delicious.

In my world growing up there are music lessons, sings and fantastic get-togethers

In my world growing up there are car trips, camping and European vacations

In my world growing up parents love each other, put one another first and show that love is forever

In my world growing up there is no swearing, no harsh words

In my world growing up there’s loyalty, kindness, love and support

In my world growing up there has never been need because there has always been a help-ing hand nearby, happy and willing to do more than required

I couldn’t imagine a more perfect home to be raised in, loved in and protected in a safe little world.

Thank you so much for being a living example of what a loving world can be. Love you both very much.

— LOVE, LORI

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COURTESY OF JOYCE JACKSON

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You don’t choose family. They are God’s gift to you, as you are to them.— DESMOND TUTU

I N F I F T Y Y E A R S T O G E T H E R

Y O U ’ V E S H A R E D S O M A N Y T H I N G S

T H A T ’ S W H Y T H I S V E R Y S P E C I A L

A N N I V E R S A R Y B R I N G S

T O Y O U , A W I S H T H A T L O V E ,

L A U G H T E R , J O Y , C O N T E N T M E N T

T O O

W I L L B E Y O U R S T O S H A R E

T H R O U G H O U T

T H E Y E A R S A H E A D O F Y O U !

Bill you were my little brother. You were small but mighty. We all called you Billie. Your full name is William Norval Helm after two Uncles. This little blonde, blue eyed, curly-haired boy was the pride and joy of parents and siblings. Jack was 5 years old and I was 4 years old when Billie was born. We had a little brother, so we had to move over a bit and make room for another member of the family.

Marilyn came along within two years and then that was our family. Marilyn married Tom Watson in 1965 so they will celebrate 50 years too very soon.

I remember Bill making a little farm in the garden that he had marked out into lit-tle areas. I suppose they were fields for various things like crops. I won-der if he was thinking

ahead to the future and ways to make farming a bit easier. We used horses at that time. Tractors and other machinery were used later.

We lost our beloved Father, Joseph, in 1951 so that left us and our Mother, Marjorie, to try and continue farming as best as we could to make a living. We were 9, 10, 14 and 15 years old at that time. Our Mother was only 37 years old.

Jack worked the farm for many years until the farm was sold and Jack & Thelma moved to Kincardine, Ontario. They had their 50th Anniversary in October of this year. Bill was very good in school and unlike the rest of us he skipped a grade making him very young starting high school and University.

He achieved his objective of getting a degree in Engineering. Then he met the love of his life Marilyn Kevelighan. They were married on November 20,1964.

We attended their wedding at Marilyn’s parents home in Detroit and I remember how snowy the trip was. They had three daughters and now have 9 grandchildren and one great grandchild to date.

Bill & Marilyn you have reached your Golden Wedding An-niversary of 50 years. That is a great accomplishment. As your older sister I want to tell you to cherish every day you have together.

I am now alone and having reached 56 years of marriage I don’t know where the years went. George was the love of my life and I miss him very much.

Life is short and very precious so enjoy each other and your family.

Love and Best Wishes to you both. May you have many good years ahead.

— J O Y C E J A C K S O N

C H E R I S H E V E R Y D AY Y O U

H AV E T O G E T H E R .

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Let us be grateful to peo-ple who make us happy, they are the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom.— MARCEL PROUST

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COLIN + ELAINE FABIAN

Your friend is your needs answered.— KHALIL GIBRAN

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I love Christmases with Grandma buzzing around, delightedly cackling at Dad calling her The Gen-eral while she gives me sour keys 10 at a time, and somehow also concocting delicious treats. Grandpa was in the background, showing me something he had found and knew I’d be inter-ested in — an article in a magazine, a story about Hungary, or a new trinket (tech-y wine opener,

bidet). The love and ex-citement in the house was tangible and deeply impacted me. It wrapped me up in a warm protected feeling that made every wrong feel right. To me,

these Christmases were the definition of family and what it means to be supported and given the confidence to go through life, just because I knew that I was loved.

I love Grandma’s fierce loyalty to her family. I love that Grandpa listens to you when you talk to him, even when you are a self-important twit of a 12 year old. I love that Grandma has taught me

the value of nurturing & family without uttering a single lecture or word — simply by living her life. I love that Grandpa thinks about how things work and patiently explains them. I love that they both know what they believe and value but that they are open & entertained by all our wild sug-gestions. I love that they do everything with us in mind. I love that they travel, show love to every-one they encounter, and that they live a life they believe in.

I proudly showed some friends at work my grand-parent’s photo (stolen of course from Sheli) and told them we would be celebrating their 50th this Christmas. Their reaction showed me that what I perceive as “normal” based on my family is actu-ally quite rare. I’m sure Grandpa and Grandma aren’t perfect but they are loving, kind, loyal, generous, funny, strong, united, Godly, selfless, humble, supportive, lively, and most of all they’re real.

I couldn’t ask for better examples.

— C A I T LY N T AY L O R

I have the most magical memories of Grandpa and Grandma.

I T W R A P P E D M E U P

I N A WA R M P R O T E C T E D

F E E L I N G T H A T M A D E

E V E R Y W R O N G R I G H T .

For the joys you’ve shared

For the dreams you’ve seen come true

For the memories you’ve made as a married couple

For all the ways you’ve meant so much to each other, this brings congratula-tions on your Gold Anniversary.

Congratulations on your 50th!

— V E R N + E R M A C A R T E R

CongratulationsI just want to say congratulations to a very dear couple on their 50th wedding anniversary. It has been a special priviledge to meet in your happy home since moving to Burl-ington. I feel very grateful for the fel-lowship & friendship we share. With love & care.

— D I A N E S E L M A N

Our paths first crossed in September 1988 when we moved to Burlington from Ottawa. We met together at Harry and Muriel Mose and then at your house a total of 12 years. Now this past year we are back at your house again. We have enjoyed good fel-lowship, good times and good meals over the past 26 years and watched our chil-dren progress from teenagers to married couples and to parents providing us with lovely grandchildren.

Through all the good times and trying times you have remained true to God and to each other and we have no doubt that will continue for the rest of your life. Congratulations on your wonderful 50 years of marriage and we wish you many more years of good health and happiness together.

— L O V E , B E T T Y + W E N D E L L M O U N T A I N

S H E L I D I S H E R I S A C O M P E T I T I V E : A . D R A G R A C E R B . F L A M E T H R O W E R C . T E N N I S P L AY E R

C. TENNIS PLAYER

Happy anniversary Marilyn + Bill, Fifty years so heartily shared a love that’s real, You’ve loved tender, You’ve loved true, In all your ups and downs.

Life’s events, as you’ve been through, in sorrow never drowned.

Fifty years you’ve had your fun, smiles big and wide.

Keep on smiling, while you can. Show those teeth with pride! Soon they may just all fall out!

It happens when you’re old. Or you could buy some just like mine, get out your black billfold.

Then you need some spectables, jumbo and kingsize! Amazon.com you’ll find, these very special buys.

Then you can be as quaint as I, so dubious I’m told.

Aside from that, I wish the best. Your special day of gold.

— L I N D A S I LV E Y

To Bill & Marilyn 50 Years of Wedded Bliss

A VIDEO

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T O WA T C H L I N D A’ S S O N G , G O T O Y O U T U B E . C O M /WA T C H ? V = N Q 3 F Z O J K I B O O R S C A N T H E Q R C O D E

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Congratulations on 50 golden years, Uncle Bill and Aunt Marilyn! Rob remembers spending a week at your place once with Paul and Anne when his Grandpa Cowan was sick. For a country boy, it was quite a change! Everything was different and interesting. He remembers eating and eat-ing and enjoying every minute of it, whether in a restaurant or at Uncle Bill and Aunt Marilyn’s. It’s quite possible that his cousins’ and auntie were embarrassed but they didn’t let on. It was also great fun riding in the car along the QEW and making faces at people in cars as they drove by. In general, it was a grand time he won’t forget!

As he got a little older, Rob was always keen to hear where Uncle Bill had travelled to with his work through Massey

Ferguson, and with Western Combine. Uncle Bill’s experi-ences were something that he could relate to and it was al-ways interesting to hear about the challenges that were in-volved.

We’ve also thought of several special times we’ve spent with your family through the years...Thanksgivings and Christ-mases, Sunday dinners, Helm reunions, birthday parties etc; they are too numerous to mention but all noteworthy! We’ve always felt so welcome in your gracious, loving home. We feel blessed we are united by familial ties but glad too, for the deeper ties that bind us in Truth.

Love is something eternal; the aspect may change but not the essence.— VINCENT VAN GOGH

E X T R A S P E C I A L L O V E A N D C A R E ,

— R O B + A M Y , R E B E C C A + J O H N

C A R D A N D P H O T O S S H A R E D B Y E R N S T + R U T H

A special Friendship, Wit a special CoupleOn a special Anniversary, Congratulatons on your

50t Wedding Day

Best WishesErnst & Ruth

W H I C H G R A N D D A U G H T E R R I D E S H O R S E S A N D P L AY S M U S I C L I K E A B O S S ? : A . C A I T LY N B . K AY L A C . K E L S E Y

ALL THE GRANDDAUGHTERS ARE AMAZING, BUT ONLE ONE OF THEM CLAIM THIS TITLE.B. KAYLA

It is only the great hearted who can be true friends. The mean and cowardly, can never know what true friendship means.— CHARLES KINGSLEY

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50 years of married life, 50 years of being husband & wife. We send you our congratulations, Even though we are not relations,

But consider both of you As friends dear & true. This friendship has lasted quite a long time, As you, Bill, first came to Hungary around '89.

There have been many encounters with both since then, Too numerous to recount with the pen!

One in particular deserves a mention. To take the workers for a meal was your intention Where to go was Richard's decision, But not quite what you did envision.

For Richard thought the very thing Was for all to go to the Burger King. Though you would not have chosen that place, You accepted his choice with a lot of grace.

Since then you have often come to this land; Often your visits for our sakes were planned.

We can't thank you enough for your visits, your care, Your support & love & every prayer, And all that has come to us over the border. We're glad Our God is a great rewarder.

Though this poem is no work of art, We just want to do our little part In letting you know how much we love you, By sending very best wishes from the Hungarian crew.

— A N N C O U R T

BRIL BILL + MARVELLOUS MARILYNYou have been a succourer of many .... a special couple with big hearts, helping us in our journey and cheering us along even from afar. I have treasured memories of you in Hungary. Thank you for loving us and loving the Work there.

Happy Anniversary to you both.

With love and hugs.

— B R E E H A M I L T O N

L E F T T O R I G H T : J E S S E D I T H A L L E R S , A N N C O U R T , H E I D R U N F E I C H T I N G E R , B R E E H A M I L T O N + R A C H E L T AY L O R I N H U N G A R Y

Sending our best wishes for a very special vacation in the Dominican celebrating your fifty years together. As you cele-brate your 50 golden years with your children, grandchildren and your precious little great-grandson we know your days there will be filled with sunshine and fun as you share your stories of “Down Through The Years”.

Jack remembers (thinks it was at Walter Norman’s) a thresh-ing that Bill was at and some part of the machinery needed repair. Bill was thrilled he could fix what was needed, that the older men could not. This no doubt was a talent that de-termined his choice to become a mechanical engineer and an accomplished businessman. Understand his love of music has continued all these years.

Marilyn we remember so well many delicious meals that we all thoroughly enjoyed as well as your hospitality.

— W I T H L O V E , J A C K A N D T H E L M A

Down Through the Years

IN A MARR IAGE WHERE LOVE

AB IDES , I S A HOME SHARED

S IDE BY S IDE . MAY THE LOVE

YOU HAVE TOGETHER GROW

S TRON GER EVERY DAY.

PHOTOS THIS PAGE COURTESY

OF JACK + THELMA

+ ANNE LANGE

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PHOTOS THIS PAGE COURTESY OF

JACK + THELMA + ANNE LANGE


JACK + THELMA + ANNE LANGE

U N D E R N O C I R C U M S T A N C E S W I L L T O M : A . E A T L O B S T E R B . H U G H I S W I F E I N P U B L I C C . G O O N A C R U I S E

TRICKY! BOTH B. HUG HIS WIFE IN PUBLIC AND C. GO ON A CRUISE ARE CORRECT!50

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I included this photo of Marilyn read-ing to Ashley Beattie because it is so typical of your Gramma. Marilyn re-ally put little children on the map. A lot of us grew up in English homes where little children were to be seen and not heard. But Marilyn's coming

changed that.— DOT SEYMOUR

W H A T I S K E N D R A’ S FAV O R I T E H O B B Y ? A . S H O E S H O P P I N G B . J U G G L I N G C . R I D I N G G L A S S E L E VA T O R S O N C R U I S E S H I P S

C. RIDING GLASS ELEVATORS ON CRUISE SHIPS

Friendship is unnecessary, like philosophy, like art...

It has no survival value; rather it is one of those things that give value to survival.— C. S . LEWIS

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TED + DOT SEYMOUR


TED + DOT SEYMOUR

C A L E B O N C E A F F E C T I O N A T E LY C O M PA R E D H I S M O T H E R ’ S B E A U T Y T O T H A T O F :

A . M A R I LY N M O N R O E B . A D I N O S A U R C . A F R E S H LY M O W N L AW N

A. A DINOSAUR50

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Congratulations to a wonderful couple on their 50th Wedding Anniversary. We appreciate and are grateful for your friendship over the years. Also being able to see your lovely girls grow up and have families of their own. We’re also grateful for your open home, fellowship and hospitality. We will always appreciate your help when

we moved and your care for us. We wish you good health and many more happy years together!

— JIM + MURIEL SAVOY

W I L L I A M D I S H E R I S A D E A D R I N G E R F O R W H I C H P E R S O N A G E ?

A . J U S T I N B I E B E R B . W I L L I A M H E L M C . K E L LY S L A T E R

WHILE WILLIAM IS FAR HANDSOMER THAN BIEBS OR KELLY SLATER, HE DOES CLOSELY RESMEBLE HIS NAMESAKE! B. WILLIAM HELM

Congratulations on your 50th! What comes to mind is inclusiveness when I think of you both. You included us in many family celebrations, putting up with our children's antics as they grew up, and when they had grown up. Thank you for your generous kind spirit.— THE NOWLANS

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My favorite memory of grandma and grandpa is from when Kelsey and I were visiting for sailing camp. Grandpa always loved hearing about our sailing endeavors, because of his true sailor nature, and grandma would always go out of her way to make us feel special. She would make us lunches, treats etc. as well as give us her famous good night food rubs. Spending time with them was always so special. My favorite part of that trip was the time that Kelsey and I were out sail-ing and we looked over and saw grandma and grandpa’s boat not to far from us, it was so awesome for them to come see us do our thing!

Kelsey and I were also amused because grams was “wear pants,” it was chilly out, but it seemed so strange to us to see grandma out on the deck holding a rope and wearing pants!

Another favorite memory was when they came to visit us a few years ago. We sat around the table for hours and did a puzzle together, which we actually finished. That was also when grandpa and I put together the electric fire place for my mom.

I also love how grams taught me my first real words, “shut up bamber twit!”

Grams and gramps have always been so loving to me, and to each other. Your loving kindness has taught me so much about family! Congrats on your 50 years, may you have many more!!

Grandchildren are the dots that connect the lines from generation to generation. — LOIS WYSE

— L O V E Y O U S O M U C H ! M A D I S O N D I S H E R

W H A T ’ S T H E W O R S T PA R T A B O U T G O I N G T O G R A N D M A A N D G R A N D PA’ S ?

LEAVING.

Dear Uncle Bill and Aunt Marilyn,

Congratulations on this very special anniversary! We are so thankful for your loving example. I have so many good memories through the years of times our families spent together, but upon hearing of your anniversary and this special collection of mementos from family and friends, I immediately remembered our own wedding day, August 5, 2000.

We were gathered together with family and friends to celebrate the beginning of our life together and dad and mom had asked Uncle Bill to say a little something at our wedding. Although I can’t remember every word he said, I do remember that everything he said came down to three little words: “ I LOVE YOU.”

These words were written on a little card that he gave me after he was done talking. I have kept that piece of paper and it is still on our refrigerator as a reminder that through every experience great or small, every misunderstanding, mistake or choice, those three little words will have the biggest impact, when truly said from the heart. I’m sure those are word that you’ve both said to each other countless times through the years and we plan to do the same in the future!

I hope you both have many more happy years ahead together, sharing every experience great and small, with the one you love!

Happy Anniversary to a very dear couple!

— L O V E , K U R T , C H R I S T Y , C A L E B , D A N I E L + M A S O N H O C K A D AY

A L I T T L E C A R D B I L L G AV E T O K U R T A N D C H R I S T Y O N T H E I R W E D D I N G D AY I N 2 0 0 0 !

A B O V E : K U R T A N D C H R I S -T Y W I T H S O N S C A L E B ( D A R K H A I R I N B A C K ) A G E 11 , D A N I E L ( D I R T Y S H O R T B L O N D H A I R O N R I G H T ) A G E 8 , M A S O N ( L I T T L E O N E I N F R O N T ) A G E 4

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Thank you for being the best grandparents ever! I have so many special memories with you and look forward to more! — H O L LY L A F R E N I E R E

A C C O R D I N G T O B I L L H E L M , B R O C C O L I T A S T E S “ J U S T L I K E , ” A . A T O B L E R O N E B . M A C - N - C H E E S E C . I C E C R E A M

HE’D SAY ANYTHING TO GET HIS GRANDKIDS TO EAT THEIR GREENS!50

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Gramps and Grams,

First of all, CONGRATULATIONS!! 50 years is an amazing length of time to be in love with someone and both of you are such an inspiration and the epitome of what I strive for in my relationships. For 20 of your 50 years to-gether, I have been blessed to be a part of your lives. I was told to tell some stories or some memories but there is such an over whelming abundance of memories that I have had with you both that I do not know how to put it in one letter.

I guess I will start with the beginning, my beginning. When I was just a few years old we spent countless hours traveling to Ohio together. I remember baking cookies and treats to take to the Taylors and looking out the window as we drove, waiting to see the barn and run down the drive way as you yelled after me to

be careful. For some reason Grandma’s laugh as I played with the Taylors, has always been a warming memory to me.

I also remember sleepovers at Grandma and Grandpa’s being such a fun adventure. Shortly before William was born, Maddy, Caitlyn and I spent the night with you. Madison lost her pacifier or sippy cup or something and of course I, being the older sister, was blamed. There was a huge fight and lots of yelling and eventually mom and dad were called. I often bring this story up when Madison tries to blame me for things now. Haha! Wil-liam’s birthday is another night I will never forget. I remember climbing up in your huge bed and jumping in the fluffy comforter and watching Grandpa talk to Dad. We all thought it was going to be a girl and Maddy

and I were joking about having a little sister to play with. Suddenly Grand-pa turned to us and yelled “It’s a boy!” He started tearing up and I just remember looking at him and thinking he was so sad that he was not going to have another granddaughter. Apparently that was not the case, he was over whelmed with the birth of a little Bill!

Christmas was always a big deal with our family. We all gathered in the living room and sat on the big black couch and passed around presents. What I remember most, is hysterically crying when Haley and Caitlyn got a Furby and I did not. I was told that I was not old enough and I was simply heart broken. Grandpa of course gave pity on me and brought me down to his workshop. For some reason this was a forbidden area to us kids and going in there was always a big deal. My tears were instantly replaced with wide eyed excitement! Looking at half broken chairs was much better than a fluffy toy!!

Between crying and laughing and nights at the lake with ice cream cones or nights in the hot tub getting sprayed by grandma at the sink, I have nothing but heartwarming memories of my grandma and grandpa. Grow-ing up with the two of you around, holding our huge family together, was such a blessing. I hope that the two of you have 50 more years of laughing and crying together with all of us!

I love you both more than anything! Happy 50 years!

— Y O U R FAV O R I T E G R A N D D A U G H T E R , K E L S E Y D I S H E R

F O R 2 0 O F YO U R 5 0

Y E A R S T O G E T H E R , I H AV E

B E E N B L E S S E D T O B E A

PA R T O F YO U R L I V E S .

“Looking at half-broken chairs was much better than a fluffy toy!”

Dear Grandma and Grandpa,

Happy 50th anniversary! Thank you so much for being such amazing grandparents. You have always been such an important part of my life and still are. I always looked forward to going to your house for meeting, dinners, tea parties, sleepovers and much, much more. I have enjoyed every moment spent with you.

I adore your warm hugs and being with you and I am so fortunate to have you as grandparents. Thank you for all you have done, and still do to make me feel so lucky as well as the love you continually show towards me. Love you forever and ever. — K E N D R A L A F R E N I E R E

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Dearest Uncle Bill & Aunt Marilyn,

Words don’t even come close to expressing how much we love you and respect you. Your kind spirit and generosity has encouraged us so many times. You are second parents to us and we miss you every day since we moved away.

S A N D R A’ S F O N D E S T M E M O R I E S One Sunday morning when I was very young, I wasn’t feeling well. Auntie Marilyn took me out and rocked me in a big comfy chair — I remember feeling so secure. More recently, I think often of the time we brought snacks onto the sailboat and just relaxed in the harbour … chatting for hours.

E R I C ’ S F O N D E S T M E M O R I E S

Sunday lunches and helping Uncle Bill in the basement of the new house.

A U S T I N ’ S F O N D E S T M E M O R I E S

Always being welcome in their home and Aunt Marilyn’s delicious food.

Z A C ’ S F O N D E S T M E M O R I E S

Relaxing and eating yummy food in their home.

H U N T E R S F O N D E S T M E M O R I E S Looking forward to many <3

— A L L O U R L O V E , E R I C , S A N D R A , A U S T I N , Z A C & H U N T E R

A family is a risky venture, because the greater the love, the greater the loss... That’s the trade-off. But I’ll take it all.— BRAD PITT

A C C O R D I N G T O A N I Q T E S T , L O R I L A F R E N I E R E T E S T E D A S :

A . S L I G H T LY G I F T E D B . J U S T L I K E T H E R E S T O F U S C . V E R Y G I F T E D

C. VERY GIFTED ! WITH AN IQ OF 138

One summer my brothers and I went for a couple days to the city to have some fun with our cousins ...we were from the country and our (Rob and Paul's ...not mine of course!) behavior in restaurant's was a little embarrassing I think! But Aunt Marilyn was kind enough to take us on our first trip to Ontario Place and also I think it was my first time to eat pizza(!)

— T H E L A N G E S

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the ode to 50 years

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Eighteen thousand two hundred and fifty days Youths full of confidence like a boy in a maze How do we count time when we are so young By the many dead ends or by the hours of fun

The table was laden with food by the pile Tom welcomed each guest with cheerful smile The wedding went off according to plan I recall But I know I worried as the snow started to fall

The clock started slow, with a gentle tick tock like an old man and a dog on a quiet walk Then the dog grows old — too quickly it seems and the girls are in school with boys in their dreams

Then college and marriage and babies — oh no what happened to the clock — what made it go time is funny, we say it treats everyone the same but if that is true why does my back feel so lame

We know even a maze has an exit some where but who is looks for an exit when life is so fair Can you recall your dreams from a long time ago Do you now understand that your bar was too low.

With children and grandchildren, all beauties fair What? A great-grandchild, to dream more would you dare Yes your family is like a ball, made from spring snow As time pushes on, it will continue to grow.

When your party is over — the children all gone away may the younger ones strive to follow the same WAY Grandpa and Grandma have been examples of love for both our family on earth and those already above.

— L O V E , T O M + M A R I LY N WA T S O N

memoriesPHOTOS THIS PAGE COURTESY

OF JOHN + GILL BEATTIE

Wishing to be friends is quick work, but friendship is a slow ripening fruit.— ARISTOTLE

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I remember the time you both came to my very first horse show. Just seeing you guys there really motivated me and I wanted to do well. Even though grandma was scared for both her and me, she was still there supporting me. It meant a lot to me that you took time out of your day to come and watch.

My whole life is filled with unforgettable memories like that one. I will ways cherish them and keep them close to me and I hope there are many more to come. Love you lots xox

— L O V E , K AY L A

“A grandparent’s love is strong and deep, filled with memories to cherish and keep.” — UNKNOWN


OF DOUG + DONNA JACKSON

The language of friendship is not words but meanings.— HENRY DAVID THOREAU

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Don’t walk behind me; I may not lead. Don’t walk in front of me; I may not follow. Just walk beside me and be my friend. — ALBERT CAMUS PHOTOS THIS PAGE

COURTESY OF

DOUG + DONNA

JACKSON

PHOTOS THIS PAGE

COURTESY OF

DOUG + DONNA

JACKSON

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PHOTOS THIS PAGE

COURTESY OF

DOUG + DONNA

JACKSON

True friendship comes when the silence between two people is comfortable. — DAVID TYSON GENTRY

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OF LAWRENCE + HALEY STEPHENSON

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OF LAWRENCE + HALEY STEPHENSON

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PHOTOS THIS PAGE

COURTESY OF

LAWRENCE + HALEY

STEPHENSON

What could I possibly add to this outpouring of love and flood of memo-ries? You two have been a cornerstone, a support, a joy, an inspiration and a joy to everyone fortunate enough to know you.

My earliest memory of my grandparents is a late night in October. I don’t remember how old I was, but I do know that it was Canadian Thanksgiv-ing, when the Helms and Beatties used to descend on Delta, Ohio for a weekend of donuts, farm excursions, turkey and laughter. I was sleeping in mom and dad’s room on the floor, Caitlyn and I had been waiting in

great anticipation all day long for our guests to ar-rive. It was late, and mom sent us to bed. I remember laying resentfully on the floor in my sleeping bag, desperate to join the fun as I heard our guests arriv-ing. Grandma snuck in with a consolation gift: a cof-fee cake muffin. I remember thinking how strange it was to have a cake/muffin made out of coffee, and stranger still that I found it incredibly delicious.

I remember eating chocolate kisses out of a plastic candy cane in the living room at the house on May-

fair, grandma got sick of cleaning up everyone’s trash and made the rule that everyone had to throw out their wrappers.

I remember sliding down the wood banister on the staircase, delighting in “terrifying” grandma.

I remember grandma’s endless (metaphorical) dances with the vaccuum cleaner, and what great pride she took (and takes!) in an impeccable home in which to welcome and entertain people.

I remember playing with an old, noisy calculator in the office and delight-fully sending Amber into a conniption. (You guys let me!)

I remember when grandpa got the hot tub, and how thrilling that was!

I remember when I was fifteen or sixteen and we took a van full of our friends to Oakville. (How excited I have always been to introduce my friends (and later, boyfriends, and later still, my husband and child!!) to my “super cool” grandparents.)

I remember our special, unforgettable trip to Hungary. It was my first time really seeing you both through the eyes of a more (albeit, young) adult. I remember being struck anew by your humble yet generous spirit. Your ser-vice to others; never seeking recognition or glory, simply seeking to serve in any way you can.

Over the past two years I’ve entered a new, scary phase in my life: I am a wife and mother. These changes are full of fearful unknowns, but as I grow in these roles, I have the incredible strength of reflecting on and learning from the template of your lives.

Every encounter and experience with you has been filled with not only joy, but excitement, delight, love, fun and beauty. It’s been, like Caitlyn said, magical. Long after you are both gone, long after your children are gone and long after I am gone, I know the spirit and love and warmth you’ve lived and given to all those around you will be the most valuable lasting legacy.

— L O V E , H A L E Y

E V E R Y E N C O U N T E R A N D

E X P E R I E N C E W I T H YO U

H A S B E E N F I L L E D W I T H

N O T O N LY J OY , B U T

E X C I T E M E N T , D E L I G H T ,

L O V E , F U N A N D B E A U T Y.

to know you, is to love you

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