Tribute to Aunt Ginny & Uncle Alan

Aunt Ginny (Mom's sister) with her silly birthday hat & Uncle Alan

My Tribute to Aunt Ginny & Uncle Alan

On the Occasion of their 60th Wedding Anniversary

by

Patricia Soderberg

September 17th, 2010

60 years together with one person!! How awesome!!

The thing that I personally find impressive is how accepting you are of our family. I mean we were the Catholics, the cigarette smokers, the beer drinkers, the liberal Democrats, the loud and boisterous. My family even bought in others that were not members of the family but they thought they were. I think you guys deserve a medal for the way that you not only accepted Tony Dadey but it seemed like you embraced him and enjoyed him. I never got the feeling that Aunt Ginny had to hold a gun to Uncle Alan's head and say "Oh yes, we are going to visit my goofy sister and her goofy family." Nope. Never gave me the feeling like he tolerated us just for his wife's sake. If that is the case he has done a very good job of faking it. You guys have always been very gracious, kind and supportive and for that I thank you.

I wonder how many milestones you two have seen. How many jobs, houses cars, vacations, events, and the list goes on and on. I wonder how many mountains you have climbed, how many valleys you have walked through. How many sacrifices were made. Think about how lucky you are to have done it together. To quote someone (not sure who) "To love someone deeply gives you strength. Being loved by someone deeply gives you courage."

Have you ever thought about the accomplishments the two of you have achieved together? (Ask children to stand) (Ask grandchildren to stand) There is no doubt that these are your greatest accomplishments. Aunt Ginny, Uncle Alan, you have every reason to be filled with pride and joy about these accomplishments. This is what it is all about. This is what has made everything about your journey together so worthwhile. This is your legacy which will continue long after you are gone.

When you married 60 years ago you had no idea where the road was going to take you. Aren't you glad it took you where it did? I am.

Love you guys.