SIKESTON -- Family and friends of Joe and Dorothy Ruhl gathered Oct. 18 at the Clinton Building in Sikeston to celebrate the couple's golden wedding anniversary.
Ruhl and the former Dorothy Slaughter were married Oct. 22, 1953, at Hernando, Miss. More than 60 people joined in the celebration which was hosted by their daughters, Barbara Britt of Excelsior Springs, Marilyn White of Piedmont, Judy Robison of Nixa, Debbie Hill of Springfield and Carolyn Asmus of Oran.
The hall was decorated with white and gold balloon bouquets. The floral centerpieces, which featured pictures of the honorees, complemented the lace table cloths. A photo gallery display depicted a half-century of family photos and the couple's 25th wedding anniversary quilt was also on display.
Their grandson, Brad Hill of Springfield, offered the blessing for the meal. Greeting guests at the door with anniversary mementos was their youngest grandson, Sean Robison of Nixa. Cake and punch were served by granddaughters, Laura Britt of Excelsior Springs; Karmen White, Kayla White and Megan White of Piedmont; and Bethany Asmus of Oran.
Each hostess introduced her family and shared a memory of growing up in the Ruhl household. A framed Missouri Senate Resolution and Missouri House Resolution honoring the couple for their commitment to community, family and each other over the years, was presented to Mr. and Mrs. Ruhl. They also received a card from the White House in recognition of their 50th wedding anniversary.
As a surprise anniversary gift, their daughters presented them with a Caribbean Cruise for December.