AUBURN – A surprise party was held recently for Russell and Beverly Norton of Auburn, on the occasion of their 50th wedding anniversary.

The event was planned by their children and was held at C&J Hall in Lewiston. The couple renewed their vows, with the Rev. Michael Seavey of St. Joseph’s Parish officiating. Their granddaughter, Ashli Dube, wrote a special poem and it was read by Kelsey Ferris. The couple danced to the song “Tennessee Waltz.” The toastmaster was Jerry Norton.

They received many gifts, a money tree and a dozen yellow roses from special friends in Columbus, Ga. A three-tier anniversary cake in gold and white with a fountain was served and on display was their engagement picture taken from the newspaper in 1953.

Mr. Norton and the former Beverly Currier were married on Sept. 26, 1953, at the Strong City Hall. Their children are Suzette Norton Hutchinson, Lee Dube, Lucy McCall, Jerry and Olga Norton, Rick Norton and Annette Paradis. Their grandchildren are Isaac, Beth and Abby Hutchinson, Ryan, Greg and Zachary Paradis, Bo, Jamie, Jenni and Jake Norton, Chelsea, Corey and Shawn Norton, Ashli and Derek Dube, Stephanie, Jerry Jr., Sherry, Jessica, Kimberley, Nicole and Jessica McCall and Kelsey Ferris. They also have 13 great-grandchildren.

Mrs. Norton was employed for 15 years at King’s Department Store and Mr. Norton worked at Bath Iron Works for 20 years. Both have been members of St. Joseph’s Church for 40 years.

Special guests attending were the parents of Mr. Norton, Vinton, age 90 and Katherine, age 80.

Guests attended from Oklahoma, Strong, Windham, Farmington, Sebago and Springvale.