WALES – A surprise party was held recently for Bill and Joan Willette of Wales, on the occasion of their 50th wedding anniversary. The event was planned by their daughter and son-in-law, Mike and Joey Irish, and was held in Lewiston.

An anniversary cake with the image of their original wedding photo was served and a slide show with family pictures was shown. The couple received flowers from Sally Prince and Shannon McFarland. Joey Irish had charge of the toast.

Mr. Willette and the former Joan Yokell were married Sept. 28, 1957, at the Catholic Chapel at Dow Air Force Base in Hampden.

Their children are Dennis Willette, Joey Irish, Della Thomas and Jonathan Willette. Their grandchildren are Lesley Martin, Brogan Horton, Augden Willette, Noah Willette, Jared Willette, William Tyner, Analise Thomas and Benjamin Thomas.

Mrs. Willette is employed at New England Telephone.

Mr. Willette served in the U.S. Air Force and both owned and operated Mama Rosa’s Italian Foods in Lewiston for more than 30 years.