AUBURN – A surprise party was held July 6 to commemorate the 50th wedding anniversary of Lionel (Nel) and Irene Duplissis of Auburn.

Family and friends gathered at the home of one of their daughters in Minot in celebration. The couple’s five children and their families hosted the party. Their eldest granddaughter made an anniversary cake as a replica of their wedding cake.

The couple was married July 5, 1958. They built a life together in Lewiston, raising five children.

Mr. Duplissis was employed at H.P. Hood and Sons for many years, later retiring from Country Kitchen Bakeries. In retirement, he has enjoyed being a crossing guard for the Auburn School Department.

Mrs. Duplissis’ love of the arts has followed her throughout her life. She taught art lessons for several years, while creating many paintings herself. She has continued to paint, primarily in watercolor format.

They travel around Maine and New England, displaying and selling her works of art at popular art shows.

The couple resides in Auburn, where they enjoy their floral and vegetable gardens. They value their time spent with their family and friends, and enjoy their 12 grandchildren, with two great-grandchildren on the way.