Blankenbakers celebrate 70th

Wilma Blankenbaker knows the key to a long and happy marriage - "You can't be all for yourself, you've got to share." She commented recently in the room she shares with her husband Harland at Persimmon Ridge in Portland.

She's not a marriage counselor, but 70 years of marriage has taught her a thing or two.

Harland married Wilma (Rouch) on Oct. 21, 1939, in Spiceland with Pastor Dawson Liggett officiating.

The couple attended Poling High School and began dating when Harland was a senior and Wilma was a sophomore. He graduated in 1936 and Wilma in 1938.

Harland worked at H & H Bakery in Portland where he ran the dough break. He also remembers making cookies and pastries.

He was later drafted into the United States Army, where he served in the 95th Division.

Upon returning to Portland Harland began working at Drop Forge and retired from there after 36 years.

Wilma worked as a secretary at Judge Haynes Elementary.

Harland and Wilma are the parents of two children, Joe who lives in Statesboro, Ga., and Bonnie who is an art teacher in Fort Recovery. They also have three grandchildren.

Harland offered a few words of wisdom himself about a successful marriage, "Just don't argue with them." "No 'cause I'm always right." Wilma added![[In-content Ad]]