June 5 marks the 50th wedding anniversary of Tom and Mary Graves. The two met in first grade while at Baker School in Ridgefield. They continued attending Ridgefield schools until their graduation in 1966. After attending four years of college, the couple got back together and were married a year later in Ridgefield, where they also settled for a marvelous life together. Mary’s first grade class from that year attended the couple’s wedding from the church balcony. Mary taught mostly first grade in Ridgefield schools for 34 wonderful years, while Tom worked in Battle Ground schools and Gresham schools during the same time period. They experienced a story-book life together, having three children, Tammi, Todd and Tina (Krause), all of Ridgefield. They also have six grandchildren: Jade, Liam (passed), Hazen, Olivia, Adam and Sidney. After retirement Tom and Mary immediately began traveling, crossing the U.S. numerous times east to west and north to south, as Mary began having trouble with developing Alzheimer’s. Tom cared for Mary, with family and friends, continuously until two months ago when she was placed in a small care home, where she continues to reside. She is visited as often as possible by family and friends, while battling the debilitating disease. Tom will celebrate their 50 years together at Mary’s care home along with the children, followed by a family gathering at Tom and Mary’s home.
