Exactly 27 years ago today, Stan and Kathleen were married on a Friday morning under a maple tree at Lake Ann Park in Chanhassen, Minnesota. The tree was a brilliant gold, set against the green foliage and grass on a splendid fall day. Scott County Clerk of Court Brendan Suel made it legal. Newspaper photographer Greg Helgeson recorded the action. The City of Chanhassen had no idea we were using its park. Tech students having a fall picnic nearby applauded the outcome.There's just a stump now where the maple tree stood. One of the witnesses has died. But the love expressed and promises made that day live on and will be renewed this afternoon over a plate of ribs at Tony Roma's in the Mall of America.
The original plans for a big wedding reception fell through when the would-be hostess suffered anxiety attacks over the prospect of having all those guests over. So Stan's pal and business associate, Gary Welch, along with his wife, Georgianne, stepped forward at the last minute and took on our whole ram dam fam.Three white-haired ladies were the first to arrive on the reception scene in Prior Lake Saturday. Kathleen's two aunts and her mother. Florence wasn't so sure about a marriage outside of the church. Things were complicated. But Auntie Bubbles prevailed.
The Lutheran boy from Alexandria married the Catholic girl from St. Paul in a mixed marriage, even if it wasn't officially sanctioned by Rome.The wedding package included three girls, so there were a lot of commitments made that day, commitments that continue on, with new ones added, from time to time.
We're grateful for these 27 years together that have brought us so many blessings. Thank you for your part in giving us a rich and full marriage and life together.
