Fifty years ago, on a sunny and beautiful first day of May 1965, US Marine Sergeant Malcolm Charles and Evelyn (Belliveau) Charles were married in the town of Skowhegan. Long and loving marriages are the legacy of Evelyn’s parents, Anthony and Cecile Belliveau of Skowhegan (44 years) and Malcolm’s parents, Kenneth and Iris Charles of Norridgewock (53 years).

Malcolm and Evelyn raised five children in Waterville, Karen (Kevin) Lane, of Waterville, Jennifer (Nathan) Soper, of Smithfield, Eric (Marcie) Charles, of Roanoke, Virginia, Kenneth (Anne) Charles, of Farmington, and Stephen (Christi) Charles, of Phillips.

They laid the foundation for an extended family that includes eight grandchildren, Brittney Soper, of Hampton, Virginia, Clark Lane, of Smithfield, Stephen, Alexis and Cameron Charles, all of Phillips, Madisen Charles, of Roanoke, Virginia, and Meghan and Emma Charles, of Farmington.

An intimate family gathering was held at Joyce’s in Hallowell on their anniversary. This very special occasion was celebrated with food, drink, and music on July 19 in Waterville with more than 100 family and friends in attendance representing coast to coast relationships. A wonderful time was had by all, rekindling friendships and bringing family together.