Kathy and Ric
Downing
HARTFORD — A surprise party was held recently for Ric and Kathy Downing of Hartford on the occasion of their 25th wedding anniversary. The event was held in the community room at the Poland Library. Party hosts were Diane Thomas, sister of Mrs. Downing, and Tia Downing, daughter of the couple. Many other family members helped as well. Felicia Gilks, sister of Mrs. Downing, picked up the couple and chauffeured them to the party.
There were 55 people in attendance and 48 were family members. The couple’s siblings and their families were in attendance, along with parents of Mrs. Downing. A special DVD was put together by Felicia Gilks with pictures gathered by Diane Thomas highlighting events throughout the couple’s 25 years of marriage.
Cupcakes were made and assembled into a 25 shape and were made by Ken and Frances Perkins, parents of Mrs. Downing. Tia Harris, niece of the couple, made the anniversary cake. Darlene Thomas, another sister, made a homemade card box. Centerpieces were made by a good friend of the couple, Carol Withers. Another niece, Elizabeth Perkins, gave them 25th anniversary toast glasses. Decorations were handed down from Mrs. Downing’s parents’ 25th anniversary celebration in 1989 and were used again at another sister’s 25th anniversary party, Diane and Larry in 2013.
The hall was decorated and set up by Darlene Thomas, another sister, with help from several nieces and other family members, Mae, Morgan T., Liz, Adri, Abi, Morgan W., Whitney, Mary and Kevin. Family members and friends contributed a variety of hot and cold foods and beverages. The couple received many cards and gifts.
The couple celebrated at the end of April with a two-night hotel stay at the Double Tree Motel in South Portland, a gift given by Tia Downing and other family members. They also enjoyed the many trips to area restaurants and stores to use gift certificates they received at the party.
Mr. Downing and the former Kathy Perkins were married April 6, 1989, at the Sixth Street Congregational Church in New Auburn.
Original wedding attendant present was Mike Downing, brother of Mr. Downing.
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