80th birthday celebration
by Susan Stein

The invitation read: You are invited to celebrate my 80th Birthday with me at the New Penny at Cookstown on May 5th at 12.30 pm.

I look forward to seeing you and no gifts please.

We all came, those who had known Murray as a great neighbour, friend, as dairy farmers in need of Surge milking equipment and service and if needed lending a helping hand wherever he could.

It was 47 years ago, that Murray came to Cookstown, joined Cookstown United Church and soon became a treasured member of the community

He with June now reside in Burgessville in a house, located in park-like grounds.

Stan Nelles, a former neighbour, shared some funny events encountered with Murray with the guests. Murray, welcoming his friends, responded with memories of fishing (notably with John Sheardown) and flying his Stinton Airplane around the country, landing in fields at pastures with friends joining him.

With his wife June at his side, he reminisced about the olden days, when words as emergency brakes, steering knobs, running board, described parts of a car, when a Peculator was used to make coffee and things would sometimes be store bought.

He also recalled the songs and music bands, dances of these days and prices paid for everyday needs.

Not that June and Murray are old stuck in the mud people.

They enjoy life, all the new Inventions, new car, although it does not have a "fender skirt.

June passed around pictures with them travelling with Cookstown friends and depicting scenes from the past.

It was fun to have been invited, to share the joy of seeing him so fit and cheerful, although he gave up flying."

To Murray and June, all the best wishes, may you stay healthy and on behalf of all of us, our heartfelt congratulations and many thanks for having us at your party