We love you, Bill and Nelda!

We met your parent way back on the early  wild and wooley 60's, Marshal & I had just gotten married in Crosbyton Texas and a month later we were headed to a strange state called California. Met Bill & Nel shortly after arriving in a place called Lompoc and were stationed at Vandenberg AFB. They had a little girl names Diane and she was a little doll, that loved her paci's. Soooooo much they placed about 100  give or take in her crib at night so she could locate one when she woke up during the night. About a year later Nel gave me a baby girl shower for sweet little  Monica. Bill loved his demolition derbys, Nell loved being a mom and homemaker and being a good friend to this little teenager wife from Texas. We shared many a good times over the next two years, Meals together, trips to the beach, going to showers on the base in our pajamas, ( yep that is right our pajamas right through the front gate) We have many wonderful memories of our few years in Lompoc some have faded , but the friendship with Bill & Nel keep the bond very strong between us.  One very important memory for me was I was not a christian when I arrived there, Nel treated me as a sister. Love you guys. Marshal & Rubye

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!

We thoroughly enjoyed sharing Lompoc days with you and your family. I specifically remember your driving us through the hills and dales one spring so we could all enjoy the flowers. You've shared 50 years together and touched and mentored many lives. And now you're in the Rabbit stage--what fun. May God bless you with continued health and happiness! ~the Lords

Happy 50th, Bill and Nelda,

50 years have passed and the two of you
continue to show us all what a marriage should be.

You're quick to show encouragement
but slow to criticize.
You show your strength in troubled times
but speak with loving eyes.

You are such an inspiration because
of the loving things you do
And your marriage enriches not only you
but those of us who love you too. 

Love to you both,
Lynnda (Bates)

Happy Anniversary

Bill and Nelda,

Congratulations on your 50th wedding anniversary. You have had many great years together and three beautiful children and many grandchildren.

I hope you have many more years together,

Blessings,

Vera

Congratulations, Aunt Nelda and Uncle Bill!

Dear Aunt Nelda and Uncle Bill,
I was a young kid when you two got married, so I don't have many stories to
share.  But, often at Grandma's house I would look at your high school
graduation picture, Nelda, and think how beautiful you were! I missed you
not being around.

Sherri did a great job of assembling the pictures on this website. They have
been so fun to look at. Your family had a "Brady Bunch" family photo similar
to ours, big hair and all...lol.  Also, did we all go through the same stage
with our long dresses where we looked a bit "hippie"? If these were the
"good ole days", why did we forget to smile - ha?!

One thing I can't help notice is how much younger and relaxed you both look
as you became grandparents. You, Bill, look younger without the beard, but
having grandchildren seems to suit you both. 

I wish you many, many more years of wedded bliss, health and happiness.
Thanks for allowing us to share in your special day.

With love, Karen (Walters) Rigel

Congratulations to you both, Nel and Bill!

It is wonderful that you have made it for so many years together--all 50 so far.  I wish for you many more together.

I know that you have a terrific family and lovely children and some beautiful grandchildren that you are very proud of.  Congratulations.

One story--that you may know and have heard before--but, when you and Bill married, Bill took you away--all the way across the United States to Florida (of all places).  Your dad exclaimed, "If I had known he was going to do that, I would not have allowed her to marry him!"  He was very unhappy to see you move so far away.  But, you did after a few years move back.

It has been a real pleasure to be able to visit you at different times, and in recent years, stopping by Visalia to visit.  We (usually Marian and I) always have enjoyed these visits with you.

I am wishing you a most delightful anniversary.

My love always,

Gladys Walters

Congratulations!

Bill and Nel:

I have really enjoyed visiting with you at church, you are both always so upbeat and happy!  Bill, I always like to find out what new goody you found at the Saturday night auction.  Nel you are one of the sweetest persons I know.  Larry and I wish you a great anniversary.  We are working on number 53.  I guess we are all in that same boat, "ALMOST OVER THE HILL".

LOVE YOU BOTH!

Larry & Sara Williams

With great admiration...

What a great celebration -- 50 years ! Congratulations to you, Bill and Nelda, on the fine example you provided not only your children but also others. Sean spoke of you often and with great affection as a family who had a great impact on his life. Thank you for being part of it. And thank you for your loving support these last few years especially. Best, Cynthia Allen

Happy 50th ...... amazing couple

I have known you only a few years, but your moving to Visalia was a blessing to all of us who fellowship with you. Congratulations and may you have many, many more anniversary celebrations. Lois M.

Happy 50th!

I really don't get how you can be married for fifty years....! I remember you as young parents, then parents of teens. Time has been kind to you, and God has been your guide - that is obvious to all around you.

I love you both and am SO happy you've been able to enjoy each other all these years! What a blessing - what a gift.

Love and hugs,

Bari and Frank Federspiel

50 YEARS OF LOVING EACH OTHER

Dear beloved friends,

50 years isn't long enough when you love each other as you both do. I just spent a lovely time walking down memory lane in your photos. How I truly loved each one - beautiful wedding pictures. Believe it or not, I actually remember those young years and the big hair years. Congratulations! Enjoy your 50th year with good health, laughter, and remembering the good times. You are an inspiration with your faithfulness and producing such a marvelous family. God has blessed you and I ask that He continue to bless each of you.

I love you all, and angels around you,

Jolita

Happy 50th Mom and Dad!

Wow!  Fifty years!  It must be true love.  Thanks, Mom and Dad, for all of your love and encouragement over the years.  We love you tons!!!
Steve, Sherri, Caitlin, McKenna & Tessa