Walter and Marg McCabe celebrate 60 years
by Susan Stein

(top photo) Walter and Marg at their Anniversary. (bottom) Walter and Marg are joined by Best man Jim Johnson and Maid of Honour Edna Johnson. photos by Susan Stein

Friends, neighbours, family members (about 180) came to the Bond Head Golf Course on Sunday, April 15th, to celebrate Walter and Marg's 60th Wedding Anniversary.

It was no surprise to see so many, as over the years, Walter and Marg, wherever they lived, had forged lasting friendships through their involvement in community affairs, and their outgoing personalities.

Walter and Marg started their married life in 1947 as dairy farmers in the Bolton area, where their two sons Ross and Stephen were born. Very soon after, they became active in community life with Marg joining the Women's Institute and is still a member 60 years later. Walter got involved in with the Bolton Agricultural Society, serving as trustee on the local Elementary School Board and later served as Township representative for the Peel District High School Board.

In 1970 they moved to Thornton, where they had purchased the Angus Campbell farm and continued farming. As farmers, they joined the Cookstown Agricultural Society and Walter still is a member. Curling was always a favourite pastime, so the McCabes joined the Cookstown Curling Club, where he still curls. He is a Charter Member of the Thornton Lions Club and lends a helping hand (doing pancakes just recently) .

As a member of the South Simcoe Plowmen's Association, he was active when this organization hosted the 1997 International Plowing Match in Ivy in 1997. After Wib Hadwen retired as a director from this organization after many years of service, Walter was elected to succeed him and held that office until retiring in February of 2007.

It was in 1985, the McCabes retired from farming, leaving the farm in family hands and moving to a house on the Innisfil Beach Road, never forgetting their old neighbourhood.

To honour this distinguished couple, a lovely certificate of congratulations came from the Queen Elizabeth II with her picture gracing the document. Certificates were sent from the Prime Minister Stephen Harper, from the office of Governor General of Canada Michelle Jean, from James K. Bartleman, Lieutenant Governor, from Ontario's Premier McGuinty, MPP. Joe Tascona, and delivering in person congratulations were Peter Van Loan on behalf of his and Julia Munro on her constituents and Paul Wardlaw representing Mayor of the Town of Innisfil Brian Jackson.

The highlight of the celebration was the introduction of the McCabe's wedding party: Best man Jim Johnson, maid of honour Edna Wilson (now Mrs. Jim Johnson). Son Ross speaking of his parents life, mentioned the rain on their wedding day, the rain on their 50th anniversary and as his parents said - Rain brings good luck.

It was not only luck, but their devotion to each other, their strong family ties, which now includes, daughter in-laws. grandchildren , which made this marriage as loving as from the first day.

He told his parents, that they were always there for them, and and by trying to walk in their shoes, we will do our best to prove to you, how well you raised us. Daughter -in-laws joined in reading, which was a testimony to Walter and Marg's life.

Walter had the last word at the festivities, thanking each and everyone, who made this day, this reception so special, so wonderful to always remember.

From all of us, who had the pleasure to have known Walter and Marg, our best wishes, good health, God's Blessing for years ahead of you.