DANVILLE – A surprise party was held recently for Martin and Beverly Lashua of Danville, on the occasion of their 50th wedding anniversary. Party hosts were their eight children and the event was held at the Munroe Inn in Auburn.

Surprise guests were Glendine and John Allen, Jessica Burnett and fiancé, Joe Chalker, and Diane and Fred Phipps, all from Virginia.

Mr. Lashua and the former Beverly Gilbert were married on Feb. 20, 1954, in Auburn. Their children are Glendine Allen, Diane Phipps, Jim Lashua, Gary Lashua, Deborah Briggs, Denise Brooks, Rick Lashua and Mike Lashua.

Their grandchildren are Bean and Jessica Burnett, Erin Gurney, Kent Lashua, Heather, Sheena and Elizabeth Lashua, Scott and Allison Briggs, Drew and Emmy Lashua, Sarah Lashua and Jason, Sarah, Ben, Kelli, Heidi and Katie. Great-grandchildren are Ashley, Dillon, Madison, McKenzie and Sam.

Mrs. Lashua is retired from King’s Department Store and is a member of Danville Union Church and Danville Grange. Mr. Lashua is retired from the Maine Turnpike Authority and is a member of the AMVETS Post of New Gloucester, American Legion, Danville Union Church and Danville Grange.

Both are members of the Robin Dow Senior Citizens and First Auburn Senior Citizens.

In 1999 the couple renewed their vows at the Danville Union Church, followed by a surprise 45th anniversary party at Martindale Country Club.